#but on other days they can easily get along

[munsonsmixtapes]

hiii

I saw your requests were open , can you please do a wolverine x reader smut/Fluffy oneshot where he is sucking on afab readers Breasts (like a soft moment between the two of them) and then wade accidentally walks in and teases Logan later :)

cw: MDNI (18+) nipple play

"You look so beautiful tonight," Logan told you as he pulled your shirt over your head, pressing his lips to yours afterwards. He then placed himself on top of you, his lips kissing yours in a sloppy manner as he helped you lie back on the bed, his hands resting gently along your back as they fiddled with the hooks of your bra. It came off pretty easily and Logan tossed it to the floor next to him.

He kissed his way over you to your cheek, down to your jaw, moving to your neck then all the way down to your chest, whispering sweet nothings as he did to. He got to your chest and began to nip at the skin, loving to hear you gasp as he did so.

He then diffused it with his tongue before going in with a suck, repeating the motion over and over, eating up the soft moans that were falling from your lips. He moved down slowly, making his way to one of your tits, pressing soft kisses all over it before wrapping his lips around your nipple, giving it a rough suck.

"Logan," you moaned, your hands moving to his back, your nails digging into his skin and he groaned in response, continuing to suck while his tongue swirled around it, taking his time as he wanted to savor his favorite part of having sex with you.

Most time this was all you did, letting Logan have his way with your tits for hours at a time, not coming up air until both of them were bruised, shining his spit. It had become so often that most times you weren't even wearing a bra just to make it easier for him to get to you.

Usually he was pretty rough, but that night, he was nothing but soft and gentle, wanting to be soft and sweet about the whole thing. Logan had been looking forward to it the entire day, trying not to get distracted by it during his mission, but somehow, you always made your way into his brain, taking up every single part of it.

He continued to lick and suck, getting lazy with it, but you hardly minded, as long as he kept going, you were fine. You just needed to feel his lips, his tongue on you. He was just so talented with his mouth that you wanted it anywhere he could get it.

You were close, you could feel it. Your eyes were threatening to roll back and your back arched as he took your nipple between his teeth, biting down ever so slightly, but that caused you to come completely undone just like always.

"Oh my god," you whined. "Harder."

Logan pulled away from you to look at you, his hands moving down to rest on your waist. Your eyes were pleading and damn it, he hated when you did that, knowing that he would give in, doing whatever you asked.

"Honey, I don't want to hurt you."

"I'll be fine. Just do it, please." And without a word, Logan brought your nipple between his teeth once more, biting down as hard as he could would actually hurting you and that was when you hit your peak, a loud moan leaving your lips.

And just as you had reached your orgasm, not even through it, the door to Logan's room was thrown open, Wade on the other side, mid question before he realized what was going on. And then you were screaming for an entirely different reason.

Logan immediately grabbed the other side of the blanket that you weren't lying on top and quickly threw it over your body to cover you up. He then turned to glare at Wade and if looks could kill, he would have been dead.

"Get out," you commanded through grit teeth, grabbing a pillow from next to you and throwing it at him, the thing hitting him directly in the chest.

"Jesus christ," he said as he covered his eyes. "You know, the doors have locks for a reason. Use one next time." He then slammed the door shut as Logan crawled off the bed, quick to lock the door, turning back to you to make sure that you were okay.

"I'm okay," you assured him. "I think we should go to bed now," you said, all of your desire now entirely gone.

"I think you're right," he nodded as he grabbed a t-shirt from his closet and handing it to you. You threw it on as he got into the bed next to you, nothing but silence between the two of you as Logan turned out the light.

The next morning, the two of you were hesitant to leave Logan's room as you hadn't wanted to run into Wade. You were far too embarrassed as not only had he watched you orgasm, but he had also seen your tit that hadn't been covered my Logan's face.

Logan on the other hand, was just angry. Mostly on your behalf. You had wanted to keep your relationship a secret and now someone knew. The one person who was a blabber mouth.

After hearing your stomach growl, he took it upon himself to sneak downstairs to get you something for breakfast. He honestly didn't care what Wade had to say. He just wanted him to say whatever he had been thinking just to get it over with.

He didn't know why Wade had been mad at him. He was the one who had opened the door without knocking. And had stood there for far too long before leaving. Logan wasn't really that upset, but Wade had embarrassed you and that wasn't okay. No one was allowed to hurt you and get away with it.

Logan let out a sigh when he saw Wade in the kitchen making pancakes. He moved to the pantry to grab something that was all ready to go and yelped once he turned to see Wade standing behind him, a plate of pancakes in hand.

"These are for you," he said, holding out the plate. "They're "I'm sorry I walked in on you having sex with your girlfriend" pancakes. Well, I hope I was right in assuming she was your girlfriend, which in that case, nice work, buddy," he clapped Logan on the shoulder. "But if she's not, then that's okay still. I mean, she's really-"

"I'm good on the pancakes, Wade. And don't ever mention what happened again or I will make sure that you can never have sex again."

"Are you flirting with me? Don't let your girlfriend hear that," Wade winked and in response, Logan grabbed the plate from him with a smile before heading to the trash can, dumping the breakfast food into it, looking Wade directly in the eye as he did so, his smiling growing wider as a look of offense flashed across his friend's face.

And with that, he set the plate onto the counter before grabbing a few different options from the pantry then heading back up the stairs to make up what Wade had interrupted the night before, and he was going to remember to lock the door.

[justwinginglife]

Chemistry, Comedy, and Calamity

At the request of @rayisaemobookworm, sorry it took me so long to finish this.

No one was supposed to know you were dating the Vice Captain of the Third Division. 

Everyone assumed anyway. 

The two of you never spoke of your relationship, never confirmed the rumors, never used official labels, and when asked, you’d claim you were nothing more than the best of friends, but anyone with eyes could see that the two of you were in love.

Chemistry like yours would be wasted if you weren’t together. 

You’d flirt and banter over the comms, unbothered by the entire Third Division listening in, and then compete with him on the battlefield, fighting for kills and comparing wins. Then when the battle was over, you’d dote on him, tending to his wounds with care, and chiding him for being reckless, like you weren’t the one who had previously egged him on to be better, to be faster, to be stronger, to keep up with you. 

When you’d go out on patrols together, inseparable as usual, the other officers would swear that your chatter alone would scare away any possible threat, because when you made your rounds, the entire base rumbled with the echoes of your laughter, of your boisterous conversation. 

And when you went to formal events together, when his eyes would hungrily rake over the length of your dress, lingering on every dip and curve, when you’d adjust his tie meticulously, straightening it and smoothing it down with care, it was clear that the two of you had feelings for each other. 

One day, you came across a ring that you thought he’d like and you jokingly proposed to him with it but when he accepted, when his genuine smile melted your heart, when he started excitedly yapping about wedding venues, about honeymoon destinations, there was no doubt in your mind that you were going to marry him. 

The day he started wearing his ring to work, plain for all to see, was the day the Third Division erupted into chaos.

They’d all been so confident in their previous assumptions that the two of you were dating, but when he made his way onto base with the ring glimmering around his finger, and when you strode in moments later without a ring to match, their confidence shattered, their assumptions dashed to bits. 

Had you never been together in the first place? Had he always had a girl at home? Did that girl know how close he was with you? Was it okay for him to be so close to you?

Rumors ran rampant and soon every locker room, every lunch room, every bathroom, was flooded with gossip about Hoshina. 

When you caught wind of it, you were amused. You knew there was a gem hanging from a string round your neck that could easily prove his innocence, but with your suit zipped up, no one else was aware of its presence and you couldn’t waste this opportunity to tease your fiance. 

You found him buried in paperwork at his desk and when he saw you sauntering towards him, his eyes lit up and he pushed aside any work to stand and greet you.

“Heyyy, Soshirooo.” You purred innocently as you took up position beside him. 

He raised an eyebrow at you as he wrapped his arms around your waist and pulled you towards him. “Yes? Something up?”

“How come you didn’t tell me you had a wife at home?” You pouted. 

He choked on his spit. “Sorry, what??”

You bit your lip to hold back your giggles. Then you let out an exaggerated sigh. “Here I was, thinking we were getting serious, and all along, I’ve just been some side mistress. Oh, the tragedy. I can feel my heart breaking.” You threw a hand across your chest for dramatic effect. 

He snorted. “Alright, what is this? What are you talking about, dork?”

You laughed. “Apparently the whole division has it in their heads that you’re married to someone else since you’re wearing a ring and I’m not.”

He rolled his eyes. “That’s ridiculous. You know you’re the only one for me baby.” He tightened his grip on your hips and pressed kisses to the side of your neck. 

“Careful, someone might catch you cheating on your wife.” You teased.

He pouted at your teasing, but you didn’t mistake the way his grip on you loosened slightly. “Can’t we just tell them now?” He whined.

You shook your head. “But I’m having so much fun.”

He was unamused. “Cuz you’re not the one they’re talking about,” He grumbled as he held you close again, resting his head on your shoulder. 

“I’ll tell them soon, okay, baby?” You kissed the top of his head.

He let out a huff. “Sure you will. I hope you have lots of fun while you can, because I will be getting you back for this later.”

You laughed. “Alright Soshiro, have it your way.”

So you kept up the facade a little longer, you had your fun, but then he started playing the game too. 

You’d ask to have lunch with him, you’d throw your arms around him while he worked, nuzzle up against his neck, but then he’d turn you down, pulling away from your touch, saying “I can’t do this anymore, I have a wife and child at home, I can’t keep seeing you,” and then he’d smirk at you when your jaw dropped. 

“Oh you asshole. Just love me already.” You’d whine.

He’d shake his finger at you. “Nuh-uh. Not until you tell everyone the truth.” 

So he withheld dinner dates and cuddle nights to test how long you could last. 

You wanted to give up immediately, you were practically shaking from withdrawal, but his smug smile hardened your resolve. You started spinning your tale of woe to anyone who would listen about how devastated you were to find out that he was living a secret life.

“And I’ll admit it, I was in love with the man. Utterly and completely in love. And now, to find out he’s been married this whole time? With a child? My heart can’t take it.”

Hoshina would snort at your antics and then load you up with extra work as punishment for “disorderly conduct.”

But the back and forth ended when you had your first large battle in months. The Third Division had been recently enjoying some peace and quiet, with only a few yoju here and there to disrupt said peace, but today the Third Division found themselves completely overwhelmed with a flood of kaiju, big and small. 

Hoshina completely forgot about your little feud, checking every inch of your suit to make sure it would serve its purpose before allowing you to join him on the battlefield, and then squeezing your hand and resting his forehead against yours on the transport so he could savor what time he had with you before it erupted into chaos. “Promise me you’ll be okay. No unnecessary risks, yeah baby?” He murmured into your ear, nipping at it gently. 

“I promise, love. Same goes for you. Don’t go dying on me or I’ll kill you.”

He chuckled and pulled away to gaze at you fondly. “I wouldn’t dare to incur the wrath of my side mistress.” He winked at you.

You jabbed him in the side.

“Sorry, I mean, fiancee.” He whispered the last bit so no one else could hear. 

You rolled your eyes. “You would joke at a time like this, dumbass.” 

He grinned at you and you memorized every inch of his smile in case it was the last time you saw it.

Then you arrived at your destination.

I love you, you mouthed to him before jumping off the transport and joining in the fight. 

War was always bloody, but this battle felt like an endless sea of blood, with nowhere safe to dock, with nothing stable to anchor you. 

You’d always cherished your swords, both for the confidence they instilled in you, and for the comfort they brought you because they matched Soshiro’s, but today, you felt your swords might not be enough, you felt the onslaught might be too heavy, the fight too gruesome. You’d kill to have a gun right about now.

After slicing your way through endless waves of Kaiju, after enduring the pain that seared through your arms with each aggressive motion, you’d kill to have any means to end this fight. To see daylight. To see Soshiro. You knew he was beside you, he’d never leave you for a second, but you hadn’t found a moment to check on him, to make sure he still had all his limbs, you hadn’t a moment for anything besides the fight at hand. 

Every Kaiju seemed bigger and uglier than the last, and you’d always hated them, but you were starting to feel downright vengeful now. Especially when you took a cut to the chest and felt the comfortable weight of your ring disappear. You didn’t have the time to spare a glance in the direction your ring had fallen, you didn’t even have the time to breathe. But the devastation at losing your ring spurred you on to fight more violently, more viciously, than ever before and soon the fight came to its conclusion. 

Before you knew it, you had collapsed to your knees and started desperately rummaging through corpse after corpse for your ring, not even caring that your vision was blurred through your tears. 

Soshiro realized what you were doing and immediately enlisted the help of every member of the Third Division to look for a ring. 

“Your ring, sir? The one we’ve seen you wearing?”

“My fiancee’s diamond ring. Y/N’s ring.”

Silence and shock filled the air as the realization dawned on everyone, but the moment was short lived, because soon Soshiro was clapping and barking out orders to everyone, “Come on people, we don’t have the benefit of daylight for much longer and I will have us on our hands and knees looking for it even if night falls, so get to it!”

You’d always thought that when you finally announced your engagement to Soshiro that you could throw a nice party to celebrate, that you could announce it together, that you could share in congratulations and bask in the love and support of your friends and family.

Instead, you shared in the blood, sweat, and tears of your fellow officers as you scoured every inch of the messy landscape together, and when your ring was finally found, you all celebrated by taking a dive (no one had the energy to actually dive, it was more like dragging their deadened bodies) into the nearby river to wash the exhaustion and the grime from your aching limbs. 

As you floated beside Soshiro in the cool waters, with the ring nestled safely around your finger, he turned to look at you fondly.

Then he laughed.

“God, I hope our wedding isn’t half as lively as this engagement party.”

[masonmontz]

heeey, hope you like it:)

REMEMBER: english is not my first language

fluff 🥹 word count: 2,7k

✦‎۟ ࣭ ⊹

“What’s wrong, Y/n?” Jaz asked while the two of you were having afternoon coffee in a bakery in Manchester. “You've been quiet since we got here.”

“I'm all worked up, don't worry, it's nothing” your smile didn't reach your eyes and Jaz noticed, and even though you've only known each other for a short time, anyone would realize that there was something bothering you.

You and Mason had been officially dating for a little over two months, but you had met his family before that and you loved them all, it was really great spending the holidays with them in Greece.

“You can tell me, you know, don't you?” she held out her hand and you lightly squeezed her hand across the table, smiling once more and nodding. “Is it something with Mason?”

“Jaz, don’t worry, I’m fine” she rolled her eyes and you smiled, trying to push the thought that had been haunting you for a few weeks to the back of your mind, but it was inevitable.

“Okay, so let's go, I'm already missing my girls” she murmured and you smiled, remembering the photo Mason sent you minutes ago where Summer was putting makeup on him and Mila was trying to put bows in his hair. “Should we take a pie?”

“Please, lemon pie is the best ever” you almost groaned when you saw a lemon pie on the counter, so Jaz went over and asked to wrap it up. “Debbie wants us to stop by the grocery store to pick up something for dinner?”

“She texted me to say she was making lasagna. I've come to Manchester and I need to spend the day at the gym because all I do is eat.”

“She likes to spoil Mason.”

“This is ridiculous, she never makes food like this for me, only for her big baby” you couldn't help but laugh, because they were clearly jealous of the way Debbie treats Mason, and Mason loves being spoiled by them, even though the family is now full of children and he is a grown man.

“He takes advantage because he knows she does everything for him.”

“That little devil, was the same thing when he was a child.”

You and Jaz got along really well, the girls adored you too, and you were in love with Mason's nieces and nephew, but it was sad because Stacey lived far away.

You love Mason and his family so much that it hurts, especially because your family lives far away and you miss being welcomed by them, and you found comfort in your boyfriend. However, Mason never said he loved you.

Of course, everyone has their own time and maybe he isn't ready to take that step in such a new relationship, but you listen and notice how easily he says “I love you” to his family. You just wish he would tell you he loves you too.

“Hey, had fun with Jaz?” Mason asked when you arrived at his house, he hugged you and left a kiss on your lips. “I missed you, babe. My family is stealing you from me.”

“They just think I’m cooler than you” you murmured and Mason laughed. Summer ran to you and you walked away from Mason, walking behind her to the coffee table where she was coloring pictures.

“Do you want to color with me? Uncle Masey didn't want to, he said he was tired.”

“Tired, uh?” you asked and looked at Mason who just shrugged and laid down on the couch, because he hadn't done anything all day. “Summer, I'm going to take a shower and then I'll color with you, okay?”

You walked upstairs to take a shower in Mason's bedroom bathroom, and luckily you had some clothes at his place or you would have had to go to your apartment to get them. Mason walked into the room just as you entered the bathroom, you smiled as he followed you into the bathroom and sat on the edge of the tub, the same way you two do when you're talking in the bathroom.

“I just need some silence, I'll watch you take a shower” you rolled your eyes as you took off your clothes, ignoring Mason's gaze all over your body.

“Hey, the doctor texted me, I think I'm going to need to go to the hospital for a checkup tomorrow” you said, remembering the message the doctor sent you this morning. You were hospitalized for days a month ago because of severe headaches, and now you are being monitored by two doctors to see if everything is okay.

“But are you feeling any pain?” Mason asked worriedly and you quickly shook your head, watching him sigh in relief.

“They want to do new exams, I'm fine. You have training tomorrow, don't you?”

“Yes, but I'll go with you to do the exams and then I'll go to Carrington.”

“No need, Mason, I can go alone.”

“Okay, but call me and text me” you smiled at him, and Mason actually looked worried about you.

Again you thought he hadn't said “I love you” to you yet, and you looked down as you washed your hair and Mason hummed a song under his breath.

“Hey, I bought you something” Mason spoke and left the bathroom. He left the bathroom door open and you could see him walking past the bedroom with a gift box which he placed on the bed before heading back to the bathroom. “I think you'll like it.”

“What is it?”

“You will open it and see, be patient.”

Mason continued talking to you for ten minutes until you finished your shower, and he stayed there until you put on another set of clothes and organized the bathroom.

“Do you want me to dry your hair?” he asked and you looked at him through the reflection of the mirror, Mason was behind you and you smiled feeling love all over your chest. Mason stood up when you nodded, and he looked for the hairdryer he uses when he is really late.

You wanted to cry as you watched Mason drying your hair calmly, focused and sometimes smiling at you. Maybe he doesn't love you, but he definitely likes you, because no man would ever do that, right?

You looked at the floor, feeling your eyes fill with tears and blinked a few times to keep from crying. Mason noticed and turned off the dryer, turning you to face him.

“What’s wrong, babe? You've been quiet for a few days” you didn't want to tell him the real reason you were crying because you were ashamed of doubting his feelings.

“I’m a little bit worried” you said referring to the exam you will take tomorrow, and Mason hugged you and kissed your forehead.

“Nothing will happen, you’re fine and healthy and we will spend our lives together.”

“Really? Do you want to spend your life by my side?”

“Of course, why wouldn’t I want to?” you shrugged and smiled, but it still wasn't the answer you needed. “C’mere, let's open your present and put a smile on that face.”

You wiped away some tears and smiled at Mason as he pulled you over to the bed where he had placed the gift. It was a pink package with hearts drawn on it and you felt bad about tearing it, but you still pulled the package open to see what was inside.

“It's heavy, it must have been expensive” you muttered and Mason rolled his eyes.

“You can't guess the price because of the weight” he said and laughed. “Open, open.”

You swear you had stopped crying, but you started crying again as soon as you saw the gift Mason bought for you. Big tears fell as you held the box and cried. Mason stood up worriedly, hugging you.

“What’s wrong? You didn't like it?” You hugged him tightly, crying into his chest and letting your emotions take over.

“It's the most beautiful gift I've ever received.”

You held the box to look at the book nook of a village in Greece, the same one you visited when you were there on vacation. Every detail caught your attention and you couldn't speak as you sobbed, hugging Mason once more.

“Did you like it? I thought of you when I saw it, and you can put it on your bookshelf.”

“I loved it. Thank you, Mase.”

“Stop crying, okay? I just want to see you happy.”

“They are tears of happiness.”

“I'd rather see a smile on your lips.”

✦‎۟ ࣭ ⊹

“Y/n, we're going to keep you under observation tonight, okay? Your exams are altered and we need to do new exams to check if everything is okay” Doctor Reid said as he entered the room, and you sighed sitting in the hospital hallway, because it would be another long night alone in that scary place.

“But am I okay?” your heart was racing and deep down you were scared. Since you were hospitalized for the first time this has been consuming you.

“No need to worry, we just need to be sure of the result to know which medicine you can take.”

“Okay” you murmured a little in relief, and a nurse arrived and took you to the room where you would spend the night. You hated the hospital, especially being alone there for a whole night with a needle in your arm.

You sent Mason a message saying that everything was fine but he didn't reply to you, so you just talked to the nurses who were giving you medicine and making the bed where you would stay.

Half an hour later Mason appeared in the hospital room with your pink bag that he probably filled with things and a black one.

“Hey, no need for all this, it's just one night” you said seeing how many things he brought, so Mason left everything on the armchair and walked towards you.

“I'm worried, are you sure you're okay, love?” he asked and left a kiss on your forehead, then another on your lips. “One bag is mine.”

“Why? You don't have to stay here, you can stay with your family.”

“Only in your dreams will I leave you alone in the hospital, Y/N.”

“No, seriously, Doctor Reid said it's just for some tests, you can't leave your family alone there, they came to see you.”

“Hey, I'm going to stay here and I already told the coach that I'll be late tomorrow.”

You huffed, because there was nothing you could say to make Mason change his mind.

He just lay down next to you on the hospital bed, and kept you company for hours until he went to the hospital cafeteria to get something for you both to eat. He came back and stayed by your side the whole time, and when you fell asleep, Mason held you close to him and kissed your hair, snuggling into you and sleeping too, because where you are is where he feels good.

“Thank you for spending the night with me at the hospital” you said as soon as Mason dropped you off at your apartment, and he was already late for practice but didn't seem to care.

Luckily, the doctor said everything was fine and there was no reason to worry anymore, he just prescribed you some medicine to take when you have other headaches.

“You know I would stay by your side in the hospital for a month if necessary” he mumbled and you smiled, hugging him one last time before he ran off because he was late.

“I love you” you yelled, and Mason just blew you a kiss before closing the door.

✦‎۟ ࣭ ⊹

Mason has been traveling with the team and you are increasingly drowning in the thoughts that he doesn't love you. You cried a few times alone at home, watching a romantic movie or seeing someone post love quotes on the internet.

You're at rock bottom.

You were so lost in your own thoughts crying while watching The Longest Ride that you didn't notice Mason entering your apartment.

“Y/n? What’s wrong?” he asked and you got scared, trying to wipe away your tears so he wouldn't see, but it was too late.

“I'm just crying because of the movie” you pointed at the screen right at the moment Luke is picking up Sophia for a date, and there was no reason to cry.

“Hey, I know you, there's been something bothering you for days and you still haven't told me what it is. I'm getting worried and so is my mum, she said you've been quiet.”

Mason pulled you from the couch and you let more tears fall, you stood in front of him and looked him in the eyes.

“I don't want to look like a fool.”

“You know I’d never think that of you, love” he tucked your hair behind your ear.

“It's just that…” you stopped, unable to speak, but Mason encouraged you. “Do you love me?”

“What?” he asked, breathing a sigh of relief and laughing, but you cried when he didn't answer.

“You never said you loved me, and it's okay if you don't feel anything-” Mason put his hand over your mouth when you sobbed, and he stopped you from continuing to speak.

“Oh my God, I can't believe you're crying over this, baby” Mason held back his laughter. “Do you think I don't love you?”

You shrugged and looked at him with sad eyes.

“I said I love you several times” he murmured.

“No, you never said, actually.”

“I said yeah. I showed it. I showed you I love you when I introduced you to my whole family. I showed you I love you when I introduced you to my friends. I showed you I love you when I took you on a trip with my family because I know they would love you as much as I do.”

His heart was racing, and Mason continued speaking.

“I show you that I love you every day. I show you that I love you when I buy you books, when I take you out to dinner. I love you so much that I bought you a book nook from Greece for you to put among your books because it was our first trip together.”

“I showed you that I love you when I stayed by your side in the hospital for an entire night, and don't get me wrong, it wasn't to get something in return, I did it because I love you and I wouldn't leave you alone.”

“I- I” you sobbed as Mason hugged you. Now you look like a fool, because you were so focused on the words that you didn't pay attention to everything Mason does for you every day. “I’m sorry.”

“If you need to hear it, I'll say it. I love you. I love you so much Y/n that it hurts. I love you so much that I would spend a week eating your failed recipes just to make you happy. I would listen to Taylor Swift for the rest of my life just to show you that I love you. I love you.”

You were laughing and crying, and Mason was smiling too as he pulled you to sit next to him on the couch.

“I can tell you that I love you every day if you want, but I prefer to show you.”

“I'm such an idiot, my God. It's just that you say that you love your family all the time and you've never said it to me even the times I've said it.”

“Because they have the habit of saying I love you and that's why I do it, but I say I love you when I'm stuck to you all the time and don't want to let go.”

“I feel like a fool.”

“No, love, you know you don't.”

“I love you.”

“I love you. Sorry I didn't realize you wanted to hear it.”

“No, I want you to show me.”

“Ah, you don't even know what you want” he said and kissed you.

“I know exactly what I want. You. For the rest of my life.”

[vrystalius]

sniff sniff I SMELL AN AMAZING BLOG!1!1! I REALLY LOVE EVERYTHING YOU WRITE KEEP UP THIS AMAZING MASTERPIECE!1!1! Also can i request the first 3 uppermoons with a female reader human who likes to bite them a lot? Like imagine training and you feel a bite on your shoulder or talking and then! BOOM! reader cutely bites their nose and cheek :3

Biting the Upper Moons

How will the Upper Moons react to their human biting different areas of their body?

Pairing: Kokushibo, Douma, Akaza x reader

Biting areas included: Ear, nose, cheek, bicep, arm

Kokushibo

Ear: 3/10

To reach his ear, you first have to brush some hair away, meaning Kokushibo will be aware of your intentions. You don’t whisper into his ear out of nowhere, but you do like to bite him there. So, most of the time, he’s simply dodging your attack before you could come any closer. He’s very hyperaware of his senses, meaning he doesn’t want anything to disturb them. Especially his vision and hearing.

“Do not even try.”

Nose: 3/10

Your face rapidly approaching his might suggest a kiss at first, but your mischievous grin told a different story. Similar with ears, Kokushibo simply dodges you. If you annoy him further with attempts to bite him, he’ll threaten to bite you first, flashing his sharp teeth at you. That usually shuts you down and leave him to meditate in peace. Sometimes, in a moment of weakness, he lets you bite his nose. His whole face would scrunch up in dissatisfaction and will remain like that for the rest of the day.

“Why are you so insistent of biting me? Did you have issues during childhood?”

Cheek: 4/10

He barely has any cheeks to bite onto, so you’ll resolve to biting his chin. Again, Kokushibo mistakes you leaning in for you wanting a simple kiss, so he obliged and parts his lips slightly in anticipation. He truly is too trusting with you, he learned that the moment you bit his chin and then scrambled away to hide. He didn’t bother to chase you, it was his fault that he’s letting his guard down like that. Perhaps he’s too lenient and loving with you.

“How foolish of me to think that you, my spouse, wanted affection from me.” (Is he even capable of sarcasm? Everything he says sounds to serious.)

Bicep: 8/10

Feeling you bite his bicep makes him feel oddly proud of his muscles. Is this your way of complimenting his body? Or a way to seduce him? Because weirdly enough, Kokushibo gets aroused when you bite him there. It reminds him of other moments where you desperately hold onto his bicep and shoulders and the way your face contorted into pure ecstasy. Perhaps you biting his bicep like that is your way to invite him into your bedroom? He’ll have to ask you why exactly you chose to bite his bicep out of all places.

“Are you trying to court me, dear? Just say the word and I’m yours tonight.”

Arm: 6/10

You biting his arm randomly during certain tasks amuses him slightly. It’s kind of fascinating to him why you are doing this. Do you crave his attention this badly? Once your teeth sink into his skin, his muscles would tense and Kokushibo might pull you around a little, like how someone would do with a puppy or energetic toddler. But do not expect him to look enthusiastic. His face will remain stone cold while playing tug-war with you. You have to be beware of how easily he gets fed up with the games though.

“Release my arm. Now.”

Douma

Ear: 6/10

It’s amusing to him how you continue to find ways to catch his attention. If Douma is busy preparing for another sermon, cleaning himself off after a feeding or just simply lounging around, you come up to him and bite his ear. He giggles loudly and would try to bite you back in any way. One time, he snuck up on you. As a payback for biting his ear very harshly that day, Douma wanted to bite yours in return! You jumped very violently once he pounced onto you and bit down onto your ear. From that day on, you now have an additional earhole in your ear for even more jewrely! That was his plan all along! Totally!

“How about I bite your other ear so you have symmetrical ear holes? That way, I can get you even more earrings! Wouldn’t you like that, lotus? …No? Okay.”

Nose: 7/10

It’s so cute to him! You mostly do it when you two nuzzle your noses together affectionately when you chomp down onto his. It surprised him, yes, but it’s so so cute! You being so adorable and just biting him stirs some kind of cuteness-aggression within him. Douma would trap you in his strong and large arms, squeaking and nuzzling his face against you. He’ll probably bite you in all kinds of areas himself during this fit, kicking his feet and grinning brightly.

“You’re so cute! My adorable little human! I could just eat you right up!! Lemme have a taste, hm? May I?”

Cheek: 5/10

Out of all the ways you bit him before, cheek bites are his least favourite. Not that Douma hates it, he just prefers to be bitten in other ways. Cheek bites remind him of cheek pulling, wich reminds him of a way a mother would scold her child. No mother ever bit her child’s cheek as a form of punishment (as far as Douma is aware of), but just feels like it. Gentle nibbles make him grin and pepper your face in kisses, but a whole bite and pull makes him whine loudly. He’d rather not get them.

“Mhh, don’t do that! Ouch… Give me a kiss on the cheek instead!”

Bicep: 8/10

Douma grins at your antics again, but this time, his smile is much more darker. You really are a brave one, aren’t you? Did you forget that he is still a demon? He only lets you bite him because you stir such strong emotions inside of him. Oh if only he can bite you back and taste your flesh on his tongue… You must taste like a heavenly feast, your blood rivalling those of marechi in taste and sacredness. Perhaps if Douma asks nicely you’ll let him try a droplet your blood. But for now, he’ll let you bite his bicep as you please. You look cute while doing it and he can barely feel it tickle, so why not?

“Dear Lotus, how about a little deal? I’ll let you bite down as hard as you like in exchange for a teeny tiny droplet of your blood?”

Arm: 7/10

Aren’t you just adorable! Douma’ll let you bite his arm and maybe even pull some flesh out if you like, as long as you’re enjoying yourself. He likes watching you entertain yourself like this with his body, it’s a great opportunity to observe some human emotions on your face. Seeing you so happy and excited about something simple like biting down onto his arm makes him wonder if you want to bite other areas in his body as well. Douma wonders if you’ll have different reactions to different firmness or taste of his skin. For example, will you bite him more often if he rubs some sugar onto his skin? Or how will you react if you bite his flexed thigh? Oh the opportunities! He might have to write down a list of reactions and behaviours he wants to test out on you!

“Lotus, how about you bite my chest? I can flex them a little and- hm? No, it’s one of my kinks, I’m just curious about something!… No, not like that! My, what a filthy mind you have.”

Akaza

Ear: 1/10

It sounds weird to him when you nibble his ear. It makes his whole body shiver, and not in a very good way. Akaza will side eye you in slight disgust whenever you even attempt to bite his earlobe. Playing it off and feigning innocence doesn’t help either and he’ll avoid you for the rest of the day/night. He doesn’t want to risk you even thinking about it.

“Don’t. You. Dare.”

Nose: 3/10

Nibbling his nose makes his whole face scrunch up in uncomfortableness. It tickles when you bite his nose and Akaza doesn’t like the way it makes him feel childish. He hates being tickled overall and almost always fights back as gently as he could against your tickle-assault, but you only biting his nose and immediately backing off feels like some kind of way to cheese his reaction. You get to see how his face scrunches together and how much he hates being tickled while also not feeling or seeing the consequences of doing so. Biting and running off is too fast for Akaza to process immediately since he almost always lets his guard down around you to show how much he trusts you. Yet, you prove to him how untrustworthy you truly are, you minx.

“Come back! You don’t get away with this again!”

Cheek: 6/10

Tolerates it at best, pushed you away at worst. Akaza doesn’t really mind you nibbling onto his cheek, as long as you don’t disturb him during something. He’ll actually welcome it when you two are cuddling, for example. He’ll even grin a little at your adorableness when you do, but if you draw his attention away from his training just to nibble against his cheek, Akaza will glare at you. Also, he doesn’t like to admit it, but he also likes to nibble a little on your cheek as well. Especially when Akaza is cuddling you and you blush. Your cheeks are very warm and nice to bite onto!

“Can we do that later? I’m busy right now.”

Bicep: 8/10

Akaza would also feel very prideful when you bite down onto his bicep. He doesn’t want to appear weak in front of you, so he’ll try to figure out when you’re planning to bite him. That way, he’ll flex his whole arm as a way of showing off. But also, that way, you started biting him more less. It’s not so nice to chew onto a boulder-like muscle, so you preferred softer areas in his body (like his cheek). But Akaza wanted you to bite his bicep! He wants you to feel how strong and powerful he is! So, he started offering his not-flexed bicep to bite onto. Now, it’s one of your favourite areas to nibble!

“You’re a really odd one. I chose the weirdest human to love.”

Arm: 7/10

Similar to his bicep, Akaza wants to flex his forearm in order to demonstrate how powerful he is! But after noticing how you preferred softer areas, he reluctantly offered his softened arm to you to bite down onto. Once you start biting down hard, he’ll notify you to stop immediately by flexing his muscle. It’s not like he feels any pain when you bite down as hard as you can, it just… tickles.

“Let go. Let go now. Hey! No! Let go of my damn arm!!”

💠

I am thinking about posting some sort of NSFW drabble for Douma I’ve been thinking about the oast few days… Maybe during Oktober. But anyways, thank you for reading! I hope you’ll continue to enjoy my blog!! Also, I have now written three fics that include biting in some form… does that say something about me or you guys? XD But keep requesting anything you like!!

Anyways, make sure to EAT, SLEEP and DRINK enough!!

Take care of yourselves <3

[alvivaarts]

Internet Safety Tips for Folks Under 18! <3

I'm writing this because it was brought to my attention that at least one of my followers/readers is 11! Years! Old! How do I know this? Because they publicly announced it! AHH!!! OH NO!

This made me practically lose my mind, because holy shit, internet safety is NOT taught like it used to be!! Are there no more assemblies or class gatherings where you watch internet safety PSA videos anymore? Or learn about it in the library? Like shit!!! Anyway, here is, in the simplest terms, tips I learned when I was under 18 that have kept me not only alive, but thriving and happy on the internet.

What Information is Appropriate/Safe for Me to Share Online?

Very little! Very, VERY little! It would be easier if I told you what NOT to share online! DO NOT SHARE: -Your age/that you are a minor. -Your state, province, or country of origin. -When you are going to school/if you are starting school. -Establishments (restaurants, activity places, etc) that may or may not be in your local area. -Any medical diagnoses (mental or physical). -Any traumatic events or triggers. (We'll come back to this). -Any other details of your day-to-day schedule. -Details about your relationship with family members. -What you are/are not allowed to do. -Passwords or personal emails/phone numbers/contact points.

It's completely fine to share: -Your interests. -Fun anecdotes from your day. -Things you are excited about (not relating to your daily schedule). -What you're eating/drinking/making. -Etc.

I know it sounds cheesy, but you should make it your goal to be unidentifiable online. People do genuinely want to use this information, information about YOU for bad reasons. We already know that data brokers exist- and that there have been massive data leaks in the last few years regarding adults/18+ folks personal information. Those people usually have the agency and ability to reclaim some of that privacy and get their lives back on track. You don't. In addition to that, sharing little snippets of information about yourself from the 'do not share' category can build up over time. It might not feel like much at the time, but it can become pretty easy to identify you with even two or three of those pieces of information. We've seen no-profile having folks on TikTok be doxxed with less.

By that extent, I recommend minimizing the images you post of yourself online, especially if you cannot monitor/approve of who follows you. It can be equally as easy for strangers to figure out where you live based on images you share online, especially if those show your face and places your frequent. We can doubt that the GeoGeussr guy might not use his powers for evil, but plenty of other people absolutely can.

Who is Trustworthy Online?

Short Answer: NO ONE!

If someone you meet in a server says they're your age? No they're not! If someone says they want to be your friend and give you free things/games/etc? No they don't! If you think someone is safe enough to share something personal with online? No they're not! If someone randomly adds you for the purpose of making friends? They are not your friend! If someone says 'you're mature for your age'? No! You're! Not!

It's easy to form attachments to people online. It might be because everyone is 'anonymous' (which is also not true, no one is every truly anonymous online) that it's easier for you to imagine a stranger to be a certain way. Or you might look up to someone a lot because of the things they make or produce. These people, even if you get along with them or share interests with them, are not your friend- and will never be 100% trustworthy. (Of course, there are very rare acceptations- I don't want to be a hypocrite. Two of my very best friends are people I met online and have now met in person. When you become an adult and are able to more easily move around and escape situations -via transportation, access to your own money, not needing to rely on others/adults to assist you, then you can decide to proceed with relationships.)

Additionally, people online especially will never offer you something 'for free'. It will always have a cost- that might be your time, your personal information, or access to you via video or audio call or other personal things.

1- Never accept random phone, audio, or video calls on any social media platform. Do not accept random friend requests either. 2- It is absolutely okay to say 'no', to block people who you don't like or make you uncomfortable, even if those people get mad. Your safety comes before other people's happiness. 3- Never accept 'gifts' from online friends, especially if they are much older than you. 4- Do not click on random links sent by friends or shared on uncertified websites, especially download links. Even mod packs or pirated games can hide viruses, malware, or phishing links- things that can steal your personal information saved to your devices, or that can destroy your devices from the inside out. 5- If you feel uncomfortable or unsure of how to handle a situation, report and block the person involved, and/or contact a moderator, site-manager, or trusted IRL adult.

Online harassment and bullying is also quite scary. This can come in many forms: -People trying to steal information from you. -People shaming you for your appearance. -People shaming you for engaging in the things you enjoy. -People shaming, name calling, or ganging up on you to make fun of you. -Targeted crap-talking towards groups of people by other groups or individuals. -Being told to harm yourself, or that life would be better without you (not true!).

If this occurs to you, block and report the user/s. If you happen to know the person harassing and bullying yourself and others in real life, inform someone in real life as well. Make sure to take screen shots and save them! However, make sure you understand the difference between bullying and someone trying to correct bad behavior or help you. Both can feel very embarrassing at first, but most of the time, people trying to help improve online communities (and you!) will not be shameful, harassing, or bullying. It's okay to feel embarrassed for not understanding particular rules or community standards, but do not take that embarrassment out on others.

Managing Your Own Online Experience

This one might sting for some folks, especially adults who haven't learned it yet, but: YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN ONLINE EXPERIENCE!

We're circling back to telling people online what your traumas and triggers are. Of course, a lot of things happen offline. It can be frustrating to come online as an escape and find something that triggers you or reawakens trauma, or even things that simply discomfort you. When it comes to things that traumatize or trigger you, block the source: Block people who cross your boundaries. Report those who break site guidelines (not people who do things you don't like- who break site guidelines). Block pages that might show things that frighten you. Do not visit websites that are known for certain traumatizing/inappropriate content. Turn on SafeSearch features. You don't even have to inform these people- do not engage, just disconnect. It's not cringe to want to optimize your online experience for your own safety, happiness and comfort!

When it comes to things that make you uncomfortable: Understand the difference between things that are traumatizing/triggering, and things that make your unhappy/uncomfortable/that you personally dislike. There is a difference. While you absolutely should have a safe and comfortable online experience, it is not appropriate or safe to approach people telling them to change X Y Z thing about what they post, discuss, or share. It's not appropriate to threaten, harass, or shame others for engaging in content that you might not like personally, or even engaging versions/aspects of that media in a way you might not yourself. The easiest way to avoid it? Don't engage with it. The instant you start to comment and complain, you're potentially outing yourself as a minor, AND telling the website algorithm that you want to see MORE of this thing you dislike, simply by engaging with it. It's a double whammy. Remember that, while your happiness and safety comes first, that does not come at the expense of other's wellbeing or enjoyment, unless that wellbeing or enjoyment is an active risk of physical or genuine harm to you that you cannot otherwise block yourself.

Finally, keep in mind that Adult Spaces/18+ spaces ARE NOT DESIGNED FOR YOU, WITH YOU IN MIND, OR FOR YOUR BENEFIT! It might feel and sound very exciting and even satisfying to get into an adult space unnoticed. However, these spaces are not meant for you- they often do NOT have all of the same safety tools as other 'public' online spaces. You are also putting yourself and the adults in the community at risk: Adults who may engage with you as an adult, because it's an adult-only space, without knowing you're a minor- as well as potentially engaging with adults who won't care whether or not you're a minor. Be especially mindful if an adult has a DNI specific to minors: that person DOES NOT want to engage with you. You wouldn't want your boundaries crossed, right? Don't cross theirs!

Some general rules to monitor your own online experience: 1- Block any potential sources of trauma/triggers. However, do not report them unless the subject matter genuinely breaks website rules (these differ DRASTICALLY depending on the site. Understand them before making any reports). 2- Live and Let Die (or Ship and Let Ship). Especially in fandom spaces. It's okay for you to have a particular take on a media, character, or ship. It is not okay for you to demean or diminish others for engaging in that media, character, or ship differently than you would. It isn't a competition about who's 'right'. Just enjoy yourself! 3- Turn on SafeSearch and Private Account settings. This minimizes potential triggers/uncomfortable subject matter, and allows you to monitor who engages with your account. 4- Do not actively pursue 18+ spaces. You don't have to stay 'in the kids zone', but don't try to insert yourself in a place where you cannot control what you might encounter.

----

I think that's about it! I'm sure there'll be other folks with plenty more to add, but these are the basics. Keep them in mind and try not to let yourself learn the hard way like I (and many others) did that The Internet as not as safe and fun as you might think it is. Of course, it is- but it's also full of unfun, or even dangerous things and people. Take care of yourself!

[moonchild033]

Astro Observations-6💪

Helllooo! Here we go with Part-6 🤗 Feel free to comment down your thoughts/experiences💅💃

(These observations are based on the whole sign system, sidereal charts and all obs are subject to change with other aspects in the chart, so don't conclude anything with a single placement) ❤

Ascendant Lord in Cardinal signs can mean that the person has control over their mind and thoughts. They always have the tendency to focus on the brighter side of everything and are not easily influenced by anyone. They do what they decide to and unwaveringly stick to it.💪

Ascendant in Mrigashira, Chitra and Dhanishta - They can be short tempered and take hasty decisions. They're driven by emotions, making them prone to react based on their current emotions and regret it later. This can apply to 1H mars too.🤯

Mercury-Rahu conjunction (within 5 degrees) in 3/6/8/12H---Pls be careful on the internet. These placements can be affected by cybercrime issues. This could happen based on the house themes, not necessarily for everyone, just a reminder to stay safe sweeties.👩‍💻

Rahu in asc or in conjunction with ascendant lord - Delulu pro max placement fr. They be having a whole different world in their mind or acting like they have multiple personalities. It's so hard to read them, no matter how many yrs you spend with them, you'll still be wondering how they would react or what they would say for a particular situation. They shed their personality or remold it frequently that they feel like a whole different person within short spans of time. 🐍

Venus-Saturn conjunction in 12H especially for Gemini and Scorpio ascendants - Their first heartbreak would be insane. They could've got to the point of engagement or in a long term relationship, so used to each other and never would've imagined a breakup but it would strike them so hard one fine day, they would've pictured and planned their whole life with that person. This placement can give an unexpected, absolutely shattering kind of heartbreak in their first love.🤧

Dhanishta Moon- Conflicts with their mom. Mom could often use emotional blackmail as a weapon or leave the household often if it's in 8/9/12H.😬

11H lord in Ardra, Swati or Shatabisha- Friendships you get can be totally different from what you've expected. The friend you loved so much can surprisingly show their true colors and betray you whereas the person you didn't even like to interact with at first could become your loyal confidants. Forget getting like minded friends, you'll get the type of friends who will motivate you to be more open minded, teach you controversial/ type of stuff that doesn't go along with the conservative or large scale population. Whether they're a bad influence or good influence depends on the 11H lord.💯

Mars in 6-8 Alignment synastry (ie. If their mars is in 8H when counted from your mars, yours will be in 6H when counted from their mars)--The physical attraction is eternal and this could also be someone you'll have your first time with. The lust part will be never ending, if there are other long term aspects, this couple could turn out to be the ones having the same libido & yearning as before kind of physical intimacy even after manyyy yearrsss. As this alignment includes 6H too, the frequency will be high as 6H indicates routine.💀

Jupiter in Domicile/Exalted house in D9 in Woman's chart- Partner will suit your type so perfectly, it will feel like you've manifested the type of person you wished for. The downside is the qualities you wished for will be overexpressed, which can be a problem sometimes. If u wished for a kind hearted and helping person, they could be so much that they give out hefty checks out for donations, you could feel that the amount is unnecessarily high. They're what you wished for, you know that but sometimes it's too much and feels overwhelming or troublesome to handle.💖

Venus-Ketu conjunction in 12H-Especially in capricorn or aquarius can lead to unrequited love. They can be in delulu love for so many years and obsessed with them. They just want that one person and no one else, they would start to understand the reality that this is going nowhere only around 25yrs old. Guys, you deserve better wake up!🤗

This should be carefully analyzed- If your 11H or it's lord is stronger than 7H or it's lord, it can lead to a second marriage or multiple love affairs.😌

Venus in 2H (In Leo/Libra)- The type of ppl to woo the opposite gender by their flirtatious and spontaneous talks. They tend to spend a lot on their partners, the type of spending can be based on the naks. Magha venus can buy antique or unique products for their partners, they focus more on the status a specific gift shows rather than it's utility. Purva phalguni venus would buy a lot for themselves too and they would love joint assets, gifts that can be shared between the couple, like a luxury car or just a unisex branded hoodie. Vishaka venus would be the partners who take their better half on a shopping spree and let them buy anything for themselves, they mostly would like to leave the choice to their partner.💝

Let's Learn and Grow Together!💅💋

With Love-Yashi ❤⚡

Masterlist💖

[serenelystrange]

Rated G

At AO3, or under the cut!

“Oh, I am going to murder the new guy,” Buck hisses under his breath.

Taylor looks up from the paperwork on her newest sale with an arched eyebrow and sighs.

“He’s literally just doing his job, Buckley. Like I’m trying to and like you should be.”

“He stole her right from under me!”

“You mean he smiled at her when she walked in, and she made a beeline to him?” Taylor asks, smirking.

“Oh, Eddie, what a handsome boy you are! My granddaughter would love you!” Buck mocks in an irritated whisper.

“Buck,” Taylor sighs. “I know you have an appointment in ten minutes that you haven’t printed anything for. And I also know that you’re just jealous you aren’t the only pretty boy on the block anymore.”

“I’m not a pretty boy,” Buck says, pouting prettily.

“Go away and let me finish this,” Taylor says. “You’re never going to win that contest if you spend all your time whining about how Eddie is better at his job than you.”

“Oh, I’m winning that SUV,” Buck says darkly. “It’ll be the best wedding gift for Maddie and Chim, especially with the baby coming.”

“You know,” Taylor muses dryly, “If you’d been even half this determined in our relationship, we probably would have dated more than two months.”

“Low blow, Tay,” Buck scoffs. “Low blow.”

Taylor just glares.

“Ok, ok, I’m going!”

He hurries off to the back to print the welcome packet for his next appointment, the image of Eddie’s annoyingly charming smile burned into his brain.

“What’s that for you, Diaz?” Buck asks as they’re all headed out for the night. “Two today?”

Taylor looks between them for a moment before rolling her eyes and striding for the door, leaving Buck to his weird one-sided pissing contest.

“I’ve told you to call me Eddie,” Eddie says calmly, ignoring the baiting tone. “You know that. And it was three, actually. Mrs. Allen bought that little red Nissan for her husband’s birthday.”

“I hope they get full coverage,” Buck says, frowning at the memory of Mr. Allen test-driving a few of their cars previously.

Eddie laughs and shakes his head, remembering the same day. “I hope she makes him go to the optometrist.”

Buck smiles for a moment before remembering he’s annoyed at the man, and scowls again.

“I’m still going to win that contest,” he says. “You’re good, but I’m in the lead.”

Eddie just gives him an unphased look and shrugs easily.

“There’s still two weeks left, Evan,” he drawls. “I guess we’ll see who comes out on top.”

He holds the door open for Buck as they leave, biting back the amused grin that wants to spread onto his face as Buck stomps out the door like he has his own personal raincloud hovering above his head.

“Drive safe,” he calls out to Buck’s retreating form, just like he does every other night.

And just like every other night, Buck ignores him.

Buck spots them coming in a few days later, an easy sale if he’s ever seen one, and speedwalks as inconspicuously as possible to the door. An older but stunning Hispanic woman looks around as she enters, a young boy moving along with the aid of arm-crutches by her side.

“Welcome!” Buck says as he approaches, giving her his sunniest smile. He waves down at the boy. “Hey, buddy. You look a little young to be buying a car already!”

The boy giggles, looking up at Buck with bright blue eyes beneath his red plastic eyeglasses.

“I’m not buying a car,” he says, somewhat stiltedly but clear. “I’m here for my dad.”

“Oh?” Buck asks, straightening back up and looking at the woman. “Who’s dad? I can track him down for you.”

“I think we’ll be ok,” the woman says warmly, looking over Buck’s shoulder at someone. “He found us.”

Buck turns, and just barely stops himself from scoffing. Because of course it’s Eddie.

“Tia?” Eddie asks, with a concerned look. “Is everything ok?” He holds his arms out for his son and scoops the boy up, swinging him around until he shrieks before holding him against his side with one arm.

Buck narrowly dodges one of the swinging crutches, but finds he can’t be mad when the kid looks so happy.

Tia relays something to Eddie in rapid Spanish that Buck can’t really keep up with, his limited Spanish language skills stalling out after basic bar talk. But he knows the words for both hospital and grandmother, and he’s frozen in place awkwardly as Eddie’s face darkens with worry.

They seem to be arguing about something now, and Buck still doesn’t understand most of it, so he busies himself by making silly faces at the boy, who also doesn’t seem to be getting most of the conversation. The boy is too old to play peekaboo, but he still makes silly faces back, laughing as Buck pulls out his old party trick of wiggling his ears.

“Buck,” Eddie says, and Buck startles, looking over at him sheepishly.

“Sorry,” he says. “I was just goofing around.”

“No, it’s fine,” Eddie says, looking harried. “My abuela fell off her porch, and I need to get to the hospital. Do you think you could take my last two appointments for the day?”

“Don’t you want to reschedule?” Buck asks before he can help himself. “You’ll lose the commission.”

“I don’t have time to call them right now,” Eddie sighs, rubbing his eyes with his free hand. “I need to tell Bobby I have to leave, and might need a few days off, too.”

Buck wavers, looking at the clock on the wall, knowing he has nearly a full hour until his next appointment is even there, and knowing Taylor will be more than happy to snag any walk-ins that come their way.

“Get me the names,” Buck says, finally. “I’ll call them and reschedule for a week out if they’re up for it. You talk to Bobby and then go take care of your family, man.”

“Wait, really?” Eddie asks, stunned. “I’m basically handing you two sales here.”

“Are you complaining?” Buck asks, only a little testily.

Eddie shakes his head and hands his son off to his aunt before clapping Buck on the shoulder.

“Thank you,” he says sincerely. “I’ll grab the sheets when I’m in the back office.” “I’ll be right back,” he says to his aunt, leaving her and his son standing with Buck.

“I’m Buck,” he says, giving them a little wave.

“Pepa,” the woman introduces herself, before jiggling the little boy. “And this little man is Christopher.”

“Nice to meet you,” Buck says. “I, uh, I didn’t know Eddie had a kid.”

“My nephew can be private,” Pepa says. “Annoyingly so, sometimes,” she adds with a resigned sigh. “But Christopher is his world.”

“I’m sure,” Buck says, smiling at the adorable boy. “I bet you’re what, twelve years old?” he asks with a completely straight face.

That sets the boy off into giggles as he shakes his head. “I’m seven!” he says.

“Well, you fooled me!” Buck says, grinning.

“Come on, Mijo,” Eddie says as he gets back to them, taking him from Pepa and giving Buck another appreciated nod along with his contact sheet as they head off.

“Thanks again, Buck,” he says, and Buck just waves them off, feeling suddenly wrong-footed and not sure why.

Buck is surprised when Eddie is back the next day, and even more surprised when he spots Christopher beside him. He watches from the break room counter as Eddie gets the kid set up at one of the tables with assorted snacks and an ipad, before speaking to him quietly and kissing him on the head as he straightens up and meets Buck’s eyes.

Buck, caught staring, manages a strained smile and takes a long and very hot sip of his coffee to avoid having to speak. Unfortunately, Eddie heads for him anyway, facing the counter as he pours himself a cup of coffee. Buck suddenly regrets standing so close to the damn thing, as he can practically touch Eddie’s arm with his own.

“Thanks again for yesterday,” Eddie says quietly. “Bobby said Chris could hang out here until I get a better babysitter situation for the rest of the summer.”

“No problem,” Buck says. “It’s good that you’re back. I’d hate to win the sales contest by default.”

“Liar,” Eddie says with an amused scoff. “You’d still love it.”

“Yeah, well,” Buck says, fighting off a grin. “It wouldn’t be as fun as winning fair and square.”

“You know,” Eddie says with a growing grin. “I bet the soccer moms would love to see how well their Chris-sized kids fit in the minivans…”

“Cheater!” Buck gasps. “You can’t use an adorable face to sell cars for you!”

“Why?’ Eddie laughs, “you do it all the time. I’ve seen those little old ladies literally pinch your cheeks.”

“Better than my ass,” Buck says, cringing as he thinks about the hassling Taylor has dealt with since she joined up. “Tay kicked a guy right in the balls once though, before you were here. It was great. He threatened to sue.”

“How’d that go?” Eddie asks, delighted.

“Bobby dragged him over by his ear to watch the security footage of him grabbing Tay, and told him if he ever stepped foot in the building again, he’d have his wife arrest him.”

“Damn,” Eddie says with appreciation. “Nice.”

One week before the contest ends, Buck checks the board in Bobby’s office, finding that Eddie is just one sale away from tying his lead. He glares at the board for a long moment, as if the smudged white plastic somehow made the numbers up instead of just recording them. Shaking his head, he decides he needs more coffee before he can deal with the day.

“Hi Buck!” Chris calls out from his usual place in the breakroom as Buck walks in, waving at him excitedly.

“Hey, buddy,” Buck says, heading over to the table and sitting down across from Chris. “What are you working on?”

“Paint-by-numbers,” Chris says, frowning down at his ipad, stylus in hand. “It’s to try and help my motors.”

Buck watches him fondly as he swipes with the stylus with determination, worrying his lip in concentration.

“You mean your fine-motor skills, maybe?” Buck asks.

“Yeah,” Chris nods, “that was it.”

“Your dad with a customer?” Buck asks, realizing the room is empty besides the two of them and wondering where Eddie had vanished off to.

Chris shakes his head, still looking down at his ipad.

“He’s on the phone outside,” he says, looking up briefly to give Buck a sad look. “He doesn’t want me to hear him yell at the army people again.”

“Army people?” Buck asks.

“He got hurt in a war,” Chris says. “So they made him come home, and now he’s angry at them all the time.”

“Oh,” Buck says, quietly. He doesn’t know the whole story, sure that Eddie will have given Chris only the abridged, child-friendly version, but it’s enough to make him frown in thought. “Well, I know he’s happy to be back with you, even if he’s angry at the army.”

“Maybe,” Chris says, shrugging without looking up, and Buck feels his heart breaking for the kid.

Eddie reappears in the break room before Buck can say anything else, face flushed red with irritation that he’s trying to smother as he heads towards his son.

“How’s it going, baby?” he asks Chris, a forced lightness to his voice as he peers down at the ipad painting.

“The leaves are tricky,” Chris frowns. “They’re really small.”

“Just do your best,” Eddie says, ruffling his hair. “It’s ok if you can’t do everything all at once.”

“That’s a good lesson,” Buck says, ostensibly to Chris, but starting right up into Eddie’s surprised brown eyes.

Eddie drops his gaze, avoiding Buck’s eyes, and pretends to watch Chris painting until Buck finally looks away.

“No Chris today?” Buck asks the next day when Eddie shows up alone.

“Pepa has the day off,” Eddie says. “So he’s hanging out in his pajamas on her couch instead of at one of our shitty lunch tables.”

“They are so wobbly,” Buck agrees.

Eddie hums, heading to the back room to grab the paperwork for his first appointment. Buck follows before he realizes what he’s doing, and leans against the wall by the printer as Eddie waits for his documents.

“Chris said something about the army yesterday,” Buck says, “you got hurt?”

Eddie sighs tiredly but nods.

“Yeah,” he says. “Fucked up my shoulder pretty bad, among other things.”

“Shit,” Buck says. “I’m sorry.”

“At least I made it home,” Eddie shrugs with forced nonchalance. “Now if only the VA would actually help me with the kid they made me leave. That would be great.”

“Is Chris ok?” Buck asks with concern. “He told me he has C.P. but he seems basically alright, all things considered.”

“He’s great,” Eddie assures him. “He just needs to find a school that will actually be able to accommodate him and still give him a decent education. And that shit is so expensive.”

“And the VA doesn’t have any resources?” Buck guesses, frowning.

“They might,” Eddie says with a sigh. “But I’m so overwhelmed with it all, between the move from Texas, and finding a place for me and Chris, and starting this job, I just now started the process.”

“You’re from Texas??” Buck asks, incredulously. “How has that never come up?”

Eddie shrugs.

“No offense,” he says, “but you’ve pretty much hated me from the day I started. I didn’t think you’d want to compare backstories.”

“Oh,” Buck says, feeling all at once like an absolute buffoon. “I don’t hate you,” he says.

“Then what was with the attitude?” Eddie laughs, as the printer finally finishes collating his papers.

“It’s dumb,” Buck says, ducking his head. “But I was just jealous you swooped in here with your stupid pretty face and stole all my customers.”

“You know,” Eddie says, “Taylor did tell me you were just jealous, but I didn’t believe her.”

“I get too caught up in competition sometimes,” Buck says, sighing.

“Little bit, maybe,” Eddie says nodding. “So, you uh, you think I’m pretty?”

“Oh, we are not having this conversation,” Buck says, pushing himself off the wall and fleeing, leaving an amused Eddie laughing after him as he goes.

“Did I ever tell you about my ex, Abby?” Buck asks the next day he finds Eddie alone at the front desk. It’s a slow day, and Chris has managed to pull Taylor and Ravi into a spirited game of Go Fish in the breakroom.

“You barely spoke to me for the first two months I worked here,” Eddie says, giving him a sassy look. “So no, you haven’t told me about your ex.”

“She was a little older than me,” Buck says. “Was taking care of her mom before she died, and it was really rough on her, you know?”

“I’m sure,” Eddie says, the question of but what does this have to do with anything clear in his tone.

“It didn’t work out,” Buck says, surprised to realize it doesn’t sting as much as it used to when he says it. “But I did meet this really great woman because of her.”

“Ok?” Eddie asks, amused but still lost.

“I think you should call her,” Buck says, handing Eddie a mint green business card.

“I’m not looking for a girlfriend, Buck,” Eddie says, glaring at the card with an inordinate amount of offense, in Buck’s opinion.

“Don’t worry,” Buck says earnestly, “she’s married.”

“What is happening here?” Eddie asks with exasperation.

“She was their home health aide,” Buck explains. “She calls herself ‘red tape’s worst enemy’”, “and I bet she can get you and Chris the help you need with his school before your head explodes.”

“Oh,” Eddie says, looking up at Buck with badly disguised wonder. “You really think she can help?”

“Definitely,” Buck says, grinning. “She’s a miracle worker.”

“I don’t even know what to say,” Eddie hesitates for a moment before pulling Buck into a brief one-armed hug. “Thank you.”

“It’s uh,” Buck stammers, face flushing, “it’s nothing.”

Eddie shakes his head and claps Buck on the shoulder, leaving his hand there as he looks at him for a long moment.

“For Chris?” Eddie says, squeezing Buck’s shoulder, “this is everything.”

The bells on the door chime as a customer walks in, breaking the moment, and Buck takes the opportunity to escape to the bathroom.

Eddie can take the sale.

“You were right,” Eddie says, as Buck opens his apartment door and looks at him with bleary eyes. “It wasn’t nearly as fun to win that SUV by default.”

Buck groans, wondering how Eddie even found out where he lives, but moves back to let him in.

“It’s not my fault I got a stupid awful cold in the middle of August,” Buck sighs. “Corporate should take sick days into account.”

“Probably,” Eddie agrees, handing Buck a round Tupperware container that’s still warm. “Tia Pepa made it, it’s chicken soup.”

“You brought me soup?” Buck asks, feeling inexplicably like he might cry at the gesture. “You don’t even like me.”

“I never didn’t like you!” Eddie says, rolling his eyes. “Your beef with me was entirely one-sided!”

“Don’t be mean to me,” Buck whines, “I’m sick.”

“Lucky for you, I’m a pro at dealing with sick babies,” Eddie teases, leading Buck towards the couch he spots. “Sit down, I’ll find you a spoon.”

Buck tries to glare at him on principle but finds he doesn’t have the strength. Instead he lets himself be guided to the couch and settles down, tucking his bare feet up under his criss-crossed legs and securing the couch blanket around his shoulders.

“Chris says thank you, by the way,” Eddie says from the kitchen where he’s opening random drawers to look for spoons. “For the new car.”

“Hmm?” Buck asks, tired brain failing to understand what Chris has to do with the contest.

“My old car is on it’s last legs,” Eddie explains, “and even with our discount, I wasn’t going to be able to get anything better or bigger anytime soon. But the SUV holds his security seat and gives him plenty of room to stretch out his legs.”

“I didn’t know that,” Buck says. “You should’ve told me before.”

“I didn’t want you to lose on purpose,” Eddie says as he walks over and hands Buck the spoon before settling down on the other end of the couch. “A pity win is even worse than a win by default.”

“I wouldn’t have lost on purpose,” Buck says, the lie obvious even to his own ears.

“Sure, bud,” Eddie says, smirking. “You keep telling yourself that.”

“I hate you,” Buck groans. He takes a careful spoonful of the soup and hums happily. “But I love this soup. I guess it evens out.”

“I can live with that,” Eddie says, grabbing the remote from the coffee table. “So, what are we watching?”

Buck shrugs and pulls the Tupperware bowl up to his mouth to sip from directly, breathing in the steamy goodness.

Eddie can figure out the rest.

“Why didn’t Taylor win, anyway?” Eddie asks when Buck is recovered and back at work. “She’s killing it out there.”

“Tay goes for the high-priced sales,” Buck says. “Luxury cars and stuff. She’s good at it, and she definitely makes more money than both of us. But the contest was for the most individual sales, not the overall sales amount.”

“Well, I’m glad,” Eddie laughs. “Chris loves the car, he wanted to camp out in it the other night.”

“Adorable,” Buck says, fondly. “But not great for anyone over five feet tall.”

“I told him I’d take him camping before school starts,” Eddie says casually. “Next weekend maybe.”

“That’s cool,” Buck says. “You’ll have to make smores! It’s tradition.”

“Is that what you did with your family?” Eddie asks, looking concerned when Buck’s expression shutters for a moment.

“My parents aren’t really the family activities type,” Buck says. “But Maddie, my older sister, she would camp out with me in the backyard, and we’d make smores and tell ghost stories.” He smiles at the memory, despite it all. “She’s really great.”

“Maybe you could come with us?” Eddie asks, almost shyly. “We can make smores and roast hot dogs. Chris is excited to build the fire.”

“Yeah?” Buck asks, “I wouldn’t be in the way?”

Eddie shakes his head, giving Buck a soft smile.

“Not at all,” he says, “you should definitely come.”

Buck smiles again, feeling the blush creeping all the way up to his hairlines, but nods in agreement.

“Can’t wait.”

“I can’t believe it’s nearly Christmas,” Buck says as they’re leaving one Friday night, he and Eddie locking up as they go. “Not that it ever gets cold enough to snow here.”

“L.A. cant even handle rain,” Eddie says as they head to the employee lot, “we don’t need them trying to drive in snow.”

“Truth,” Buck agrees, shuddering at the idea.

They make it to the cars that are parked side by side, each pulling out their keys before facing each other.

“I’ll see you tomorrow?” Buck asks, knowing full well that Eddie has been planning their planetarium trip for literal weeks.

“Obviously,” Eddie says, grabbing Buck’s shirt collar and tugging him in for a sweet kiss.

“Drive safe,” he says, like he has every other night.

Buck steals one last kiss for the night, laughing against Eddie’s lips as he finally says it back.

The End

Notes:

Honestly, what am I even doing with my life? ^_^

[sitp-recs]

Wield Me by @tackytigerfic (E, 10k)

Drarry, pre-Tedrarry

Draco Malfoy, blacksmith, is renowned through the magical world for his skill and exquisite creations. He could quite easily spend the rest of his days making pretty trinkets for the fae court, and being handsomely rewarded for the privilege. But why take the easy route when instead he could get involved in a dangerous mission with Unspeakable Harry Potter (who also happens to be Draco's... well, he's something, isn't he?). A little story about learning to strike while the iron is hot.

“It’s deep magic, you know. It doesn’t recognize anything quite so specific as a particular location. It’s more conceptual, I suppose. You remember.” He knew they did, the long night of casting, Teddy carelessly throwing azaleas and yellow roses into the quench pool along with all the others; azaleas for homesickness and the desire to return to a place of safety, yellow roses for family. Not to mention all the runework they spent hours working on. Draco rolled his eyes at them. Othala. Harry had traced it over and over in the water, and then Draco had hammered the essence of it into the metal with his sweat and his fire. Homecoming. It would be enough.

Because one birthday rec wasn’t enough I am back, this time reccing the fic Tacky gifted me on my last birthday so we’re coming full circle with the love show :D it’s hard to put into words all the feelings this fic inspired in me. I could not believe my sneaky friend (who’s pretty monogamic about their Drarry btw) had crafted something so special bringing together my two OTPs! I remember reading this in a haze, too eager to unravel that delicious summary and get to the promised Teddy kissing, but also not ready for it to be over after 10k and dreading the emotional devastation that was sure to follow. I realize that Harry/Teddy is not everyone’s jam (yet 😏) and might discourage some people to check this out, so I thought I’d follow my previous rec format and list a few reasons why I loved this so much:

1. The world: I kid you not, 10k feels like 30k once you get introduced to this magical world Tacky so masterfully crafted - vibrant, intriguing, creative, a main character in itself. I was already losing my mind over buff blacksmith Draco in a leather tunic (🥵) but then his stance against weaponry and the magical theory behind his forgery?? What an unexpected (but very much welcome) turn on. I am fascinated by this verse and wanna learn all about Draco’s backstory, about this society, its power structure, about Harry and Teddy’s job and the gritty dangers that Teddy is about to face, and whether or not he’ll find his way back home - back to Harry - safe and sound. So many questions left unanswered and this thrill, an adventurous feeling about their quest that kept me engaged until the end. What a masterclass in world building!

2. The tenderness: as per their trademark, Tacky gives this fic a lot of emotional depth and nuance, showing how easily love can multiply when Harry is the recipient (seeing how wanted he is here makes me feral) while keeping this unmistakably a Drarry romance. 40yo fuck buddies who are so obviously into each other they make me giggle and kick my feet, plus a careful balance between all dynamics in play - Teddy’s crush on Harry and respect for Draco, Draco’s longing for Harry and understanding of Teddy, Harry’s trust in Draco and tenderness for Teddy, the overall affection and sexual tension fueling all those relationships making it impossible not to cheer for them. If you’re a Teddy fan like me you’re in for a treat: I adore his edgy personality, bold, brave, painfully young and so damn lovely, a perfect fit for Harry and Draco’s mellow and steady love.

3. The symbolism: this plays into the exquisite lore created within such elegant and contained writing, I just keep thinking about the possibilities, metaphors, the way recurrent themes like family and homecoming show up in Draco’s forgery work intertwining his, Harry’s and Teddy’s lives in such a definitive way you find yourself thinking “well it must be fate so it can’t be avoided, they gotta bang” 🤷🏻‍♀️ okay so maybe not everyone is horny for this triad as I am, but the implications behind the symbology go beyond lust, diving into something deeper and more meaningful like familial love. And because I’ve read everything else from Tacky’s (“Harry deserves roots” / “I’d be your mate” / “I like my choyse” / “Is tú mo Rogha” / “Queen Anne’s lace, it means sanctuary, home.”) and so on, I can’t help but get emotional here. Harry’s longing for a family is such a quintessential Tacky theme and seeing it expand to include my beloved Teddy in their sacred Drarry kingdom makes my heart sing.

TL;DR: I feel like I could spend days talking about this fic but then nobody would read it and I really, really want more people to fall in love with these clever, competent, brave and lovable characters and with the rich, fascinating world that makes you wish you could live inside it forever and see what happens next. So run don’t walk and go treat yourself today!

[flowerwiththemachinegun]

Sorry I like my men toxic and nobody can convince me that Tseng would give you a fully healthy relationship. He’s just not the worst guy you could date. So here are some of Tseng’s toxic habits. I wish we could post powerpoint slides. Like I guess NSFW for my choice of words. Edit: Okay I’ve typed more. It’s NSFW, it wasn’t that when it was just scattered notes i swear. granted, this is still scattered notes

Forgiveness?

Tseng. The man you forgive a million times because someone like him is so hard to come by. Even if you’re a person who doesn’t tolerate bullshit. You know that it would be impossible to find anyone nearly as good as him despite his mistakes. Tseng knows this too, taking advantage of your level of comfort in him. The connection between the two of you so deep there wasn’t a possibility you could view life without him. Tseng creates soul bonds with his significant other, he has to have all of you fully invested in him. You would also want for absolutely nothing, he can provide everything you could ever want so you can focus on the future you want to build for yourself. Whether it’s school, art, creating your own business, etc. Tseng is there to guarantee everything goes according to plan if it’s financially or if he has to pull a few strings. Seeks out people who would be reluctant to replace him but aren’t very co-dependent. If you manage to leave Tseng, say good riddance to developing any new relationships. He’s either going to make any of your new significant others vanish. If it’s someone he can’t kill, he’ll find a way to scare them away from you or find a way to put them in prison. 

My alternative reasoning as to why all of your other relationships would fail? The dick of course. Yes. The unbelievable wee wee. There’s not a soul in the world that would be able to learn your body the way he does. Have you ever heard of people being nearly ready to pass away because they lost their dick? Well if you haven’t, you have now. Even thinking of him fucking someone else the way he does with you is enough to make you want to vomit. That shit will have you sliding down the wall crying. You can try all you like to fuck someone else, it won’t compare. The way he touches you immediately sends electricity down your spine. It’s all in the way he knows how to touch you. Where to touch you. A subtle brush of his fingers along the small of your back while you’re riding him. An almost tickling sensation that causes you to press yourself against him as he leans up to kiss the most sensitive parts of your neck. How about when all he needs to do is look into your eyes and knows exactly how you want to be fucked? You can’t think of a time you had to ask him to do anything, your minds were seemingly in perfect sync. Always so so willing to please you. “So you wanna fuck other people huh?” He whispers in your ear mockingly while driving his cock deeper into you. Your knees pressed against your chest, legs hooked in Tseng’s arms as he ensures you won’t slip out of your position. No, you really don’t, not when he’s reminding you of what you’ll be missing. You’ll be calling him the next day for more, innocently asking for him to come over to “talk”. There won’t be much talking, just Tseng bending you over the kitchen table. His hands gripping your hips tightly as he fucks himself into you so deeply, ignoring the way your hands push against his abdomen in a half-hearted attempt to slow his tempo down. 

There aren’t many people in this world that would be nearly as attentive as he is. The way he can easily tell all of your needs within moments of talking to you. Reads you like a book and it can’t help but make your heart flip, cause like, ‘who sent this man?’ and why does he know all of your emotional needs and exactly how to take care of them? Tseng carries aspects of his job along with his relationships. The same way he gets to know his enemies closely, he’ll do the same to you. Memorizes all of your sayings, even can predict what your response would be to most questions or statements. It’s almost more eerie than heart warming. With this comes the ability to manipulate you endlessly. Gaslighting has never been easier honestly. Lying to you about anything or forcing you to agree with his point of view would be child’s play. The way he carries himself during an argument, so well composed, rarely letting his emotions control him paired with the way he effectively strings his words together to soothe you. His calmness will make you question why you’re even so worked up. Tseng isn’t, so why are you? Tseng makes you see everything through rose colored lenses, and despite your aching heart when he hurts you, Tseng could never be wrong in your eyes. He only does what’s best for you. 

Gaslighting? Probably.

Truly remembers every word you’ve said to him and will use it against you. This goes back into my last little paragraph but deeper? Uses traumatic things from your past so you can believe that maybe your emotions, in regards to something Tseng has done wrong, are nothing more than misguided reactions. Will have you think that maybe you’re projecting your fears from past experiences onto him when you challenge him or try to hold him accountable for any wrongdoings. Certainly will guilt trip you knowing exactly what makes you feel like you’re the biggest piece of shit in the world. He doesn’t have to do anything outrageous. It’s the way Tseng subtly changes his body language. Slumping his shoulders just a bit, the way his brow furrows at your words or actions, breaking eye contact and staring at the floor like a scolded child. To put the cherry on top, it’s the ever so slight change in his tone of voice. The wavering in his tone as he speaks softly, not too soft for it to sound out of the ordinary, but enough for you to believe you’ve hurt his feelings. Usually resulting in you coddling him, now you’re the one apologizing because you “never meant to make him feel bad” even if it’s because you were grilling him for something as major as fucking his boss behind your back. Believing that it must be your fault if he’s off sleeping with others. Master manipulator for sure. He’s good at lying, like we see what he does for a living.

Like to make you cry because he's the only one that can also make you better. At times he’ll do this just to make sure he’s got complete control over you still. Wrapping his arms around you in such a calming way, his warmth and sweet words coaxing you to relax against him so he could “make it all better again.” More makeup sex. Somehow gets a kick out of cheering you back up. One minute you were sobbing because his words were a little too cruel and now you’re sobbing because he won’t stop fucking you so good. Tseng has a way he likes to position you in times like this. Having you lay on your stomach, your back arched just enough for his hips to flush against your ass as he completely sheaths himself in you, whispering in your ear asking “you still love me, right?” Christ, he has a way of making himself emotionally needy at just the right times. You can’t help but whimper, whine, and eventually choke out, through your moans, your appreciation, love, and devotion to him. Always ends with him cuming in you, some aftercare, then holding you in his arms for a majority of the night unless work calls him away.

Sometimes-y af?

He can pick and choose when he wants to pick up your relationship or not but you cannot do the same to him. Loves someone who he can come and go as he pleases with. You're so stupid and willing. Loyal to a fault, though the only person it’s negatively affecting is you. There isn’t a time you’ve turned him away thus far. Constantly taking him into your arms, babying him as though he’s some angel despite you knowing he isn’t. Tseng’s just managed to get you to the point you couldn't care less about his deceptive ways. You just want him by your side, no matter what the circumstances may be. The entire world can see the invisible leash and collar Tseng has put on you, yet you manage to stay blind to it all. You’ll wait like the good little puppy he’s molded you into. 

It’s a wonder he can be such a gentleman and a conniving son of a bitch. The kind to end an argument by demanding to be left alone but will ask “what you're doing tonight” a few hours later---he's going to fuck you—giving you a reason to keep accepting him back into your loving arms. He knows you’re a gift from the Goddess but he can’t help that he likes being toxic at times. It’s why he treats you so well and the sex is so unbelievably good. He needs to cement himself into your soul so he can continuously get away with everything, so things can continue to go exactly as he wants it to. Tseng prefers a life with you that has no consequences. For him. You, however, have to deal with punishment if you dare treat him in a similar manner to his treatment of you. Will show his displeasure with hurtful words and by neglecting you. If that doesn’t have the desired effects he’s willing to scare you into submission. Once again, nothing too outrageous that he would do. Tseng might just choke you a bit, push you against a wall, or if you try to run he’ll hold you against him tightly. Whispering into your ear about making you disappear if he can’t have you the way he wants you. Telling you how he does so much for you and he at the very least deserves you on your best behavior at all times or else he might just have to break that pretty neck of yours. Isn’t too big on yelling, he can get his point across just fine without having to do so.

Stalker? Obviously.

Tseng has trackers in your cars, phone, and bags. It doesn’t matter where you go, he’s going to find you. He’s definitely followed you from location to location, making sure you were doing what you said you would be. Sure he’s always been able to track you, but that isn’t the same as seeing you. You could be doing anything in the areas you claimed to be in. Tseng is even familiar with the faces of employees of each store you frequent. Has tracked down every family member and friend of yours, performing thorough background checks on all of them. Even closely looking after some of the people closest to you. Tseng has to approve of the people you hang around of course, he won’t tolerate anything that he feels is a negative influence and will force them out of your life. Tseng will sit outside of your house for hours after leaving, wondering if someone will come over. If he knows someone is coming over he’s got your home mic’d. Listening to all of your conversations, evading your most private conversations. Hates to hear when you vent about him, makes it hard to come back to you and act nice when in reality he wants to correct you for telling his business to your friends and family. Doesn’t mind when you’re speaking highly of him though, you help boost his ego most of the time. Getting space from Tseng is impossible. Your attempts to drive around and find a nice parking spot are all for nothing. He’s following right behind you. Is definitely going to block you in with his own car, angrily getting out of his own. Once he made you leave your car where it was entirely. Pissed that you would try to get away from him at all, it doesn’t matter if it’s just for a few hours. Pushing you into the passenger seat of his car, driving you back home all while yelling about how stupid you were and that you would always come back begging for him. 

He was always right about that. Nothing would stop you from wanting Tseng back if he finally decided he was done. A relationship with Tseng is either on his terms or very much a “till death do us part” 

[storytowrite]

|You will always be mine ~ Lee Minho series|

PART 2

Paring: Minho x Y/N

Genre: smut, angst, university au

Word count: 942

Warnings: sex, 18+, Minho is a psycho, dom!Minho, sub!reader, abuse, slight BDSM, kidnapping, violence, age gap, Minho is an university professor, Y/N can be hurt physically (and mentally too I guess).

Synopsis: Who knew that accidental fuck in the club bathroom with a handsome man will bring you to a lot of unexpected events.

Author's note: I kept this series for a really long time not sure if I want to post it or not, but I decided to do it anyway, so I hope you'll like it.

——————————

Monday. The beginning of the week, the end of the weekend and the end of freedom. It was a sunny day. You woke up in the morning, the sun's rays streaming through the slightly tattered blinds. You had meant to fix them a long time ago, but you could never find the time. Your parents always told you to take care of such things right away because it would only get harder to gather the motivation later, but who listens to what parents say?

You got out of bed and stretched. Time to get ready for classes. You thought. You took off the oversized shirt you used as pajamas and put on a black lingerie set. Standing in front of the mirror, you admired how the bra emphasized your breasts. You examined your reflection. The love bites left by the guy from the Saturday party had almost disappeared; apparently, he hadn't bitten you as hard as you initially thought.

You put on a black top and dark jeans. You tied your brown hair into a high ponytail and applied light makeup. Then, grabbed your bag and left the apartment. Ever since you started university, you lived on your own. Your parents had a house on the outskirts of the city, and you didn't see them very often.

On your way to the university, you stopped by a café, where, as always, bought coffee and a croissant. Sipping your fresh latte, you entered the university campus. Soon, your classes were about to begin. You headed towards the lecture hall, lost in your thoughts.

"Y/N!" Suddenly you heard a familiar voice from the end of the corridor.

"Oh, hi Woo, so you did manage to transfer after all." You smiled at your friend. "You didn't mention on Saturday that you were starting your classes here today."

"Yeah, I know..." The guy gave you a genuine smile. "I didn't want to brag until I was sure it would work out. Do you happen to know where room 214 is? This place is like a maze."

"Mhm... it's right above us, on the floor next to the men's bathroom" You replied and took a sip of your coffee.

"Oh, great! Thanks!" He grinned at you. "I'm off to class. See you later, Y/N!" He said cheerfully and walked away, leaving you alone.

You just sighed and headed to the lecture room, sipping your coffee along the way. You were almost about to enter the classroom when someone bumped into you, spilling coffee on your blouse.

"Hey! Watch where you're going!" You snapped.

"Because it's my fault, right?" You heard in response and rolled your eyes.

"Can't you walk properly, Lisa?" You asked sharply, taking out tissues from your bag.

"It's not my fault you're blocking the way!" Lisa replied, tossing her hair and strutting toward her desk like a model.

You rolled your eyes. Lisa used to be your friend, but now she was your biggest enemy at the university and beyond. The two of you stopped getting along in sixth grade when Lisa accused you of stealing. Since then, Lisa took every opportunity to make your life miserable. Unfortunately, fate brought the both of you to the same major at the university.

With a quiet sigh, you took your usual spot by the wall, in the third row from the end, where you could easily do everything except take notes. You hated art history lectures. They bored you, and on top of that, the lecturer was old and spoke too slowly to focus.

You glanced at your watch. Strange. You thought. The lecture should have started a long time ago. You looked around the room. Other students also seemed to wonder where the professor was. He usually arrived five minutes early, and now ten minutes had passed since the lecture should have begun, and he still hadn't shown up. Some students started packing up and preparing to leave. Some were already standing up, when suddenly the door opened, and a quite short man entered the room, who was by no means their lecturer.

"Dear students, the class hasn't ended yet. Please take your seats." He spoke up and placed his folder on the desk before leaning against it. He casually rolled up the sleeves of his white shirt, with the top two buttons undone. He looked much younger than their usual lecturer, and he was much more handsome. "My name is Lee Minho. You can call me Mr. Lee." He introduced himself. "I'll be substituting for Mr. Kang until the end of the year as he has some personal reasons preventing him from continuing to teach this subject." He informed the students. "At the end of the class, please sign your names on this list." He added, placing a white sheet of paper on the desk. "Shall we begin?" He asked, looking around the room.

You observed the man closely. His black pants perfectly accentuated his muscular thighs. The white shirt tucked into his lower garment gently hugged his torso. His dark hair was slightly tousled by the wind. He wore glasses, which added some seriousness to his appearance. He looked intimidating, yet his voice was gentle. You recognized that voice… Your eyes met. You stared into his dark brown eyes and froze. It was the same man with whom you had sex in the club's restroom a few days ago. Shock painted across your face.

"What the fu..." you covered her mouth before you could utter the last word. You knew that if anyone found out about what had happened between you and the lecturer on Saturday, you would be in trouble.

——————————

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Taglist: @yaorzu-blog, @iovecb97, @hpnsfwaddict

[hippiegoth97]

Into the Fire: An Eddie Munson x Reader Story Pt. 26

Collage by me :)

Master List

Part 25

Tag List: @keikoraven @ar-jupiter @alcielo1438 @cairro-xx @stolen-in-moonlight

@micheledawn1975 @janiejenn @rafeyscurtainbangs @melodymunson @spacedoutdaydreamer

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Content Warning 18+ Only, Minors DNI: swearing, alcohol use, light smut/teasing, mentions of war, crying, smoking, drug use, PTSD, flashbacks, blood, violence, angst, anxiety, arguing, self-destructive behavior, mentions of death/human remains

Word Count: 16.1k

divider by @strangergraphics

Part 26.1: Some Like it Hot

Tuesday, July 4th, 1989

"Eddie, dear? Do you mind carrying the potato salad inside for me?" Mom asks as the five of you get out of the car. You've driven yourself, Eddie, Mom, Dustin, and Wayne over to Steve Harrington's house for a special 4th of July barbecue. The lot of you are just a footnote in the rather long guest list. The Wheelers, the Sinclairs, the Mayfields, the Tanners, the Byers/Hopper family, and Robin are all in attendance for this afternoon and evening. Steve's own parents are out of town, as they typically find themselves to be. So, the former King of Hawkins High has taken it upon himself to throw a patriotic soiree on their dime. It's the least they can do in their everlasting absence, really.

"Sure thing, Claudia." Eddie smiles, stacking the three large Tupperware containers in his arms. "This sure is a lotta salad, you must've been up early this morning." Eddie chuckles as he struggles to keep himself from dropping one of the tubs.

"Oh, it was nothing. Besides, it's not Independence Day without the famous Henderson potato salad!" Mom says cheerfully, finding herself extremely happy to get out of the house for once.

"Well, in that case, I'll definitely have to try some." Eddie meets her gleeful energy, which in turn transfers to the rest of you. You're all quite excited to hang out with all your friends, depending on which age group you each happen to fall into.

"I 'preciate you all bringin' me along. I only hope I'm not intruding." Wayne pipes up nervously. He hasn't really met any of these people before, and he hopes to make a good impression.

"Not at all, Wayne. You'll fit right in, everyone is extremely friendly." You reassure him, while taking one of the tubs from Eddie's grasp. "Let me help you, love. You don't need to be Superman, ya know." You giggle at revealing his face as it had been previously hidden by the molded plastic.

"Thanks, sweetheart." Eddie shoots you a thankful grin. He grips the remaining salad firmly and easily now, and your little group makes it over to the front door of the Harrington residence. You ring the doorbell, and the man of the house answers not a moment later.

"Hey, you guys! We've been waiting for you to show up!" Steve says excitedly, holding the door back to let you inside. "What you got there?" He asks, pointing at the Tupperware.

"This, Stevie, is enough potato salad to feed a small army. Where should we put it?" Eddie replies, growing rather tired of carrying the stuff around now. The words 'potato' and 'salad' are also becoming rather tiresome.

"Oh, um, great! You can put it in the kitchen, just that room back there." Steve sets you in the right direction, and you and Eddie head that way while the others go around to mingle. You can hear Wayne introducing himself to Max and her mother as you set the containers down on the kitchen island.

"Will! Jane!" Dustin exclaims from the other room, overjoyed to see his California friends again.

"Hey, kiddos! Long time, no see." Hopper announces as he enters the kitchen. He's got Joyce with him, his arm wrapped firmly around her hip. They're wearing matching Hawaiian shirts and Bermuda shorts, beers in hand.

"Hey, Hop, Joyce." You reply kindly, walking over to the cooler on the other side of the island to pull out a couple cans for Eddie and yourself. You return to his side, handing off one of the frosty beers to him.

"Thanks, sweetheart." Eddie grins at you, popping the lid open, which releases a light hiss.

"The two of you are still going strong, I see. How long has it been now?" Joyce chirps, giving you two a warm glance.

"Four excruciating months, believe it or not!" You joke, making everyone laugh.

"Ouch! Low blow, princess!" Eddie quips back, reaching his free arm around your waist to pull you closer. His palm sneaks down a few inches to paw at your ass. You hold back a squeal at his dirty move, keeping a straight face.

"Well, we're very glad to see you both so happy." Joyce replies.

"I'd rather see Munson in cuffs, if you ask me." Hopper snarks, taking a swig of his beer.

"I never knew you were so kinky, Hop. Joyce must be a lucky lady." Eddie retorts, winking at Joyce. Her cheeks go bright red as she giggles, and Jim chokes as he tries to swallow. Joyce can tell he's about to blow his top at Eddie's comment, but she puts a pacifying hand on the burly man's chest.

"Now, now, Hop. He's only joking, sweetie." She coos up at him, and the man instantly calms down. He slaps a big smile on his face, though you can tell he's far from amused at your boyfriend's antics at his expense.

"Right. Well, I think Ted needs some help at the grill outside. If you'll excuse us." Jim says while shooting a deadly glare in Eddie's direction. You both nod at him silently, and he leads Joyce away towards the backyard.

"Jesus, Eds. Have you always been a thorn in Jim Hopper's side?" You ask with a chuckle. You pull away from his hold to hop onto a free space on the kitchen counter. Eddie takes this as his cue to slowly walk over to you, setting his beer on the counter beside you. His large hands carefully spread your thighs, allowing him to stand right between your legs. His flesh meeting yours makes you tingle, and his big brown eyes gazing deeply into yours sets your insides on fire.

"For as long as I can remember, baby. It's a good thing he doesn't have his badge anymore, or that little joke would've earned me a night in a holding cell." He speaks lowly to you, his eyes dragging over your form. You're dressed only in your string bikini top and some beat-up jean shorts that stop three-quarters of the way up your thighs. Of course your swim bottoms are underneath, which he really hopes will be revealed later on. The necklace he gave you sits right between the swells of your tits, drawing his pupils to it as the light catches the glossy surface.

"You make it sound like you spent a lot of time there. What's it like?" You ask seductively, taking in his own gorgeous body while you wait for an answer. Eddie has also embraced summer attire, his swim trunks serving as shorts. He's also wearing a cropped Metallica tee with the sleeves cut off. It shows off just the right amount of his stomach, letting you have a perfect view of his v-line and the trail of dark hair that runs right down the center of it. If this house weren't full of old-fashioned parents and rowdy kids, you'd be doing very unsavory things to him right now.

"You really wanna know, angel? Or are you just being polite?" He asks, drawing your eyes to his again. He's still grinning like the madman he sometimes is, which only feeds the impulse to think the most unholy things about him.

"I wanna know, Eds. I like learning things about you, even the bad stuff." You bite your lip, growing very warm in the small amount of clothing you have on.

"Well, if you must know...it's very dirty, and usually there's a couple town drunks in there, too. It reeks of piss, and you have to sit on a rusty metal bench all night." He speaks in the same tone, holding your attention in a strangling grip. He could be reading out of a dictionary right now, and you'd find it just as riveting as his checkered past. "Does that excite you, Y/N?" His eyes seem to sparkle on that one word, his voice coming out more breathy and harsh upon its utterance.

"I mean, realistically? It sounds pretty terrible. But the way you're saying it right now is...kinda hot." You say, barely above a whisper. Eddie lets out a short laugh, interested to know that as long as he uses his 'sexy voice', you'll hang onto his every word.

"Is that so? You wanna hear more?" He asks, tempting you to keep this game going. You know you should be socializing, and not almost fucking in Steve's kitchen. But no one seems to be missing you at the moment, and you're not actually doing anything. Where's the harm in a bit of teasing?

"Tell me what it's like to be arrested, Eddie." You give in to Eddie's temptation, putting your own drink down to lay your arms loosely around his shoulders.

"Well, there's the handcuffs...but you already know all about that, sweetheart." He chuckles darkly, and you nod in knowing exactly what he's referring to.

"Uh-huh. What else?" You question, wanting him to keep going.

"Well, then there's getting put in the back of the cop car. They kinda shove you in there, to avoid hitting your head." His palms caress your thighs at a snail's pace as he explains the process to you. "Then at the station, they take your prints, with this big ink pad thing. That shit stains your fingers for a couple of days. And then they have you stand against the wall to take some pictures. I think I still have a couple of them somewhere. I could show you, if you like." He smirks at that, knowing damn well you'll be all over him if you see those.

"Mmm, yes, please." You almost whimper. You bet Eddie's mugshots look so fucking sexy. He probably smiles in them, too.

"Shit. I'll definitely need to find them soon, then, won't I?" He purrs, fighting back the urge to slip a hand inside your shorts. He squeezes the tops of your thighs instead, drawing a quiet moan from you. His cock twitches in response, and he lets out a shaky breath. "This might have been a bad idea, angel. Because I really, really want you right now." Eddie says, his voice faltering.

"I know. I want you, too. But we'll just have to wait until later." You reply, trying your best to not come off whiny. If you sound too desperate, you'll both be done for.

"If we must." He rolls his eyes, ceasing his touches on you. He backs away, hopping up to sit next to you innocently. You force out a loud sigh, trying to shove your lustful feelings into a secure closet inside your mind.

"There you two are! We're been looking all over for you!" Robin says as she, Nancy, Jonathan, and Steve come into the kitchen.

"You must really wanna guard that potato salad." Steve jokes.

"No, no. We were just, um...distracted." You say as casually as you can, but the others just raise their eyebrows at you.

"Oh, I see. Having a hard time keeping it in your pants, are you?" Robin waggles her eyebrows while smirking at you.

"I'll plead the fifth on that one." Eddie says, though the blush rising on his cheeks gives him away.

"Yeah, sure. Now, get your asses up and join the damn party!" Robin shouts, going to you and pulling you off the counter by the arm.

"Alright, alright! Slow down, Robin! I need my drink!" You yell through a laugh, reaching clumsily for your beer. Eddie follows behind while Robin drags you outside to the pool deck. The kids are swimming in the pool, splashing wildly in the chlorinated waters. Music blasts through large speakers, and the adults are gathered around the tables and by the grill. Ted Wheeler effortlessly flips burgers and turns hotdogs, cooking all the meat to perfection. You've never seen him do anything well before, so it's a very welcome sight.

"So, how are you two doing?" Robin asks once your little group has taken a seat on the loungers beside the pool.

"We're really great, four months strong." You reply happily, leaning into Eddie on the lounger you're sitting sideways on.

"Woo! Two thirds of the way!" She cheers, she's very chipper today.

"Yes, it's very exciting. If only I knew what it meant!" Eddie chimes in, giving you a look as if he's attempting to read your mind for the answer.

"Sorry, Munson. Our lips are sealed." Nancy adds, mimicking locking her lips and throwing away the key. The others nod in agreement, much to Eddie's dismay.

"Ugh, fine! I'm sure whatever it is will be more than worth it." Eddie plants an affectionate kiss to your cheek, making you giggle again.

"Trust me, Eds. It will be." You coo at him, leaning in to give him a peck on the lips. He smiles against your mouth, unable to quell a rather filthy question that's popped into his head.

"It's not anal sex, is it?" He asks quietly, hoping the others don't hear. They've temporarily moved on to discussing Nancy's promotion at the newspaper.

"God, no! Exit only, baby." You reply while smacking his chest.

"Ugh, I'm gonna have to wear you down on that one, angel." Eddie smirks, his lips still brushing against yours in this private exchange.

"Over my dead body." You playfully insist, turning your attention back to the group. A small whine of disappointment escapes him, though nobody but you seems to notice. "If you quit asking, maybe I'll consider it." You add, and he mumbles a very quiet, yet excited 'yes'. The poor fool thinks he's winning that argument. "And you have to let me do it to you, too. It's only fair, don't you think?" He stiffens at your final comment, and you expect him to drop the subject altogether. But you couldn't be more wrong. He leans real close to speak in your ear, his breath fanning hotly against you.

"You make a good point, babydoll. And if it'll make you happy, who am I to deny you?" His silky-smooth voice flows like a drug into your ear and straight to your head. You can't believe for a second that he actually means it, but Eddie's not one to lie. A familiar pressure builds between your legs at the thought. To have him all laid out on the bed, while you penetrate him for once? To hear him whimper and moan beneath you, to beg you to go harder...faster... The idea in itself is extremely titillating to you. It's a good thing swimsuits are so absorbent, you're getting unbearably wet, totally ignoring the conversation going on right in front of you.

"Y/N?" Steve asks, waving a hand in your now-flushed face. Eddie chuckles at your fantasizing. It appears that the two of you will need to make a trip to a naughty little store at the edge of town, one that charmingly goes by the name of 'The Love Hut'.

"Sorry, what?" You ask, trying to fight off the heat that's slowly creeping up your neck and face.

"I asked how it's going with the promotion. Congrats on being made supervisor, by the way. You deserve it." Steve repeats what you've clearly missed in your daydreaming. The others mirror the sentiment, murmuring various congratulations your way.

"Oh! Um, it's going really well. The first day was a bit nuts, but I'm getting the hang of it." You answer, feeling a little bad for being so antisocial today. You truly don't mean to. It's not your fault that Eddie's driving you insane.

"Glad to hear it. Nance also got promoted, if you weren't paying attention. Editor in Chief! Can you believe it?" Steve says, semi-snarkily, but otherwise proud of his ex-high school sweetheart.

"Oh, that's awesome! Although, a blind man could see that coming a mile away!" You reply cheerfully.

"Thank you, Y/N. I appreciate that." Nancy beams, practically glowing with pride in herself and her hard work.

"Well, I dunno about you guys, but I'm dying to take a dip. It's fuckin' hot out here!" Robin suggests, before lifting her shirt over her head to reveal the top part of her bathing suit. It's a floral patterned one-piece, and it flatters her body very well. She's definitely not a bikini kind of girl like you, but you wouldn't expect her to be.

"That sounds perfect. You two gonna join us?" Jonathan asks, standing up to remove his own t-shirt and kick off his sandals. Nancy and Steve also disrobe in various ways, waiting to see if you and Eddie will follow suit.

"Uh, maybe in a little bit." You reply, wanting to finish your little conversation from a few minutes ago. Eddie picks up on this, staying by your side.

"Okay, suit yourselves." Steve finishes, before the four of them run and jump into the pool in unison. Massive splashes of water spill upwards, some splattering over the sides of the pool. The kiddos scream in delight, splashing large waves back at them.

"What's up, baby?" Eddie asks in your ear. You turn your head to look at him, meeting his expectant eyes.

"You've got a deal, Eds. We can try it out. Together." You say with total certainty. It could be fun to explore each other in this new way, and expand your repertoire, so to speak.

"Together, princess. Always." He agrees, taking one of your hands in his. He lifts it up to his lips, pressing a tender kiss to it. The issue can be laid to rest now, and the both of you can finally focus on the party.

You're about to ask Eddie if he wants to get into the pool, when "Da Ya Think I'm Sexy?" comes on over the speakers. "Oh, I love this song." You say softly. Eddie suddenly stands up, and extends his hand out to you.

"Wanna dance, sweetheart?" He asks, taking you by surprise.

"Since when are you a dancer?" You inquire curiously.

"I may have taken a dance class out of boredom once." Your jaw falls open at this, and he just rolls his eyes. "I didn't want to look stupid at the prom of '86, alright?" Eddie says, drawing a laugh of disbelief from you. He is always finding new ways to surprise you.

"Well, since you're such a pro..." You get off your seat to join him, placing your hand in his. "Lead the way, Eds." He quickly pulls you along to an open space on the pool deck, standing before you. He raises your joined hands upwards, and places his free one on the small of your back. Your own hand rests on his shoulder, and he gives you a small smile as he pulls you in closer. "Who did you take to prom anyway? I'm surprised you even went."

"I, uh...I didn't. My date stood me up." Eddie replies sadly, while the two of you move sensually to the music.

"Oh, baby. I'm sorry. Who was it?" You ask, giving him an apologetic look.

"Becky Sanders, she was on the cheer squad. She asked me, actually. But looking back on it, that was clearly a joke at my expense." He scoffs at himself, wondering why that fact still upsets him.

"Jesus, what a bitch!" You reply bitterly. You remember Becky, alright. She took it upon herself to pick on you quite often. Insulting your clothes and your braces, spreading rumors of you being a slut, the usual. You're surprised Eddie would even try to go out with a cunt like her. But she was also extremely pretty, so maybe he thought she'd be an easy lay.

"Yeah, I went all out on prom night, too. The tux, the corsage, I even bought fuckin' chocolates for her. But when I went to pick her up...she had already left with some asshole from the basketball team." He shakes his head, wanting to shove the awful memory away.

"I'm sorry, love. But if it makes you feel any better, I didn't go to prom, either." You hope this small fact will help lighten his mood.

"Why not, sweetheart?" He asks, shocked that you chose to skip the affair altogether.

"Nobody asked me." You say with a shrug. At the time, it didn't feel all that great to see everyone but you getting asked to the prom. But in hindsight, you're not that broken up about it anymore. School dances are never what they're cracked up to be anyway.

"What?! No way! I'm callin' bullshit on that one!" Eddie laughs, but your face doesn't change.

"I'm serious, Eds. I mean, it wasn't that big a deal to me anyway. But...I'd hoped you would ask me." You admit. You can see Eddie's about to apologize, but you shake your head to stop him. "It was just a silly wish from a silly girl. We never really hung out at that time, and we didn't know each other very well either. We had bullies in common, that's all. Don't feel bad." You reach up to cup his cheek, and he nuzzles into your touch slightly.

"I know. But could you imagine where we'd be now, if we'd gotten together back then?" He asks sweetly, and your heart melts at the thought.

"We'd probably be married already." You say with a smile. He nods in agreement, giving you a warm kiss. The two of you continue to sway along to the song, allowing Rod Stewart's signature squawk to serenade you in your thoughts. You don't even entertain the possibility that, if you had started off as a high school romance, that you would've crashed and burned before you really got anywhere. Who's to say, really? You were both younger, dumber people back then. You didn't have all the experiences under your belts that you currently possess. And honestly, you probably wouldn't have such a deep understanding of one another without them.

Eddie leads you into a small spin, before taking you back into his arms. You laugh giddily in your happy little bubble. The party surrounding you has disappeared, and there's just you and him dancing on the pool deck. "You're pretty light on your feet, angel." Eddie coos, turning your body so your back presses into his chest now.

"You're not so bad yourself, Eds." You keep up your rhythmic sway, subtly grinding your hips to tease him. A breathy groan leaves his lungs, just loud enough for you to hear. The sound of it sends a thrill through you. His hands rest on your hips, gently guiding you to keep the steady pace. You can feel his heart beating against your spine, the speed picking up at your ass meeting his crotch. You're both heating up again, and it's going to take a lot of effort to put out the flames this time.

A little bit later, you turn back around to face him as the song comes to a close. You're both yanked out of your imagined isolation when whoops and applause break out all around you. A harsh blush shocks your cheeks, and you look to find everyone clapping for your romantic display. Even Ted has stopped flipping burgers to join in, ignoring a few of them starting to burn. "Damn, guys! Way to turn up the heat!" Robin calls from the pool.

"Thanks." You reply awkwardly, pressing yourself into Eddie's embrace as a way to retreat into safety and comfort. His arms wrap around you, immediately getting the message. You can hear him now... Relax, sweetheart. We're just having fun.

"You kids must be hungry, come get a plate!" Ted beckons you with his large metal tongs, and you make your way over to pick out a burger or hotdog of your choice. "That was some fancy footwork there. I remember when me and Karen used to dance like that." Ted speaks kindly, a twinkle of nostalgia in his eye.

"Oh, Ted. We still do...sometimes." Karen adds, handing each of you a plate.

"Now, now. I don't think these youngsters wanna hear about what us old-timers got up to at their age." Ted waves her off, before looking at you and Eddie again. "So, burger, or dog?"

"Burger, please." You and Eddie reply in unison. Ted chuckles, dishing out a patty to each of you on freshly sliced buns.

"Thanks. And I think it's sweet to hear, honestly. It certainly gives us hope for the future, that the love will stay alive." You add as you move out of the way for your friends and the kids to get their own plates.

"Jesus, Claudia! How'd you raise such a romantic?" Ted addresses your mother, drawing her eyes over from her spot where she's been conversing with Charles and Susan Sinclair.

"I truly have no idea! She wasn't always like this, you know. It used to be 'I don't need a man, I can do it all on my own'!" She pauses her embarrassing recounting of your younger years to speak to you directly. "I don't mean that rudely, sugarpuff. You're a bright young woman, who has every option in the world."

"Thanks, Mom." You give her a stiff nod, allowing her to continue her story.

"Anyway, now that she's got this sweet, dashing young man attached to her, she's a completely different person. All heart eyes and wandering hands, these two." She ends on a giggle, drawing a chorus of laughs and 'aw's from everyone else. It takes everything in you to keep your groans and protests to yourself, you know she means well.

You continue through the makeshift line that's been set up here, squirting ketchup onto your top bun and placing a slice of cheese over the beef patty. You'd prefer for it to have been melted on the grill, but it'll do just fine as is. Eddie doesn't leave your side for a single second, he hasn't done so the entire time you've been here. You sense he's a tad uncomfortable around so many people, especially the parents who serve as authority figures at this little get-together. You go inside to scoop some side dishes onto your plate from the smorgasbord layed out in the kitchen. Baked beans, potato salad, a couple deviled eggs, corn on the cob, and another beer. After your plates are full to the brim, you return to your places on the loungers with the other young adults.

The kids gather around you as well, taking a break from swimming to fuel up. You all talk about various things, like new movies coming out, the upcoming campaign Erica has been working on, or Max getting hired at the theater. You're very excited to work with her, get to know her better. She may be a part of this massive friend group, but due to her lack of interest in D&D, you don't see her as much as some of the others. Your surprise at her lesser presence only grows when you find out she lives in the trailer park, just a couple homes away from Eddie. But she seems very smart, and sweet, and like a major smart-ass. Her and Eddie are bound to get into trouble at work at some point due to their mischievous nature.

You finish eating, discarding your paper plate in the trashcan near the grill. You go back to your seat, laying between Eddie's legs in the lounger. He holds you close with his arms, the two of you soaking up the sun with your eyes blissfully closed. The two of you relax like this for a bit, letting the playful sounds of kids laughing and adults chattering lull you to a serene state. After a short while, you hear the click and whir of a Polaroid camera a few feet away from you, which draws your eyes open. You look to find your mother snapping pictures again. "Ugh, Mom! You brought the damn camera?" You groan in annoyance, squeezing your eyes shut again.

"Of course I did! We have to capture these memories, sugarpuff! And you and Eddie look so cute all snuggled up together." Mom oozes delight at capturing your happiness for who knows how many times now. She trots over to set the photograph on the small table next to you, quickly moving on to taking pictures of everyone else. She's always been like this, needing to document every occasion she can think of for posterity. You suppose it makes enough sense, she wants to remember the good times. But she can occasionally be pushy a tad about it, even snapping many embarrassing photos of your worst moments. A ridden-up skirt here, a smudge of chocolate around your mouth there. You're surprised she didn't take one when she found you in bed with Eddie the first time.

"Jesus christ." You mumble, adjusting yourself to lay a bit more comfortably on top of Eddie. He hasn't said a word, you wonder if he's fallen asleep. You got pretty close yourself, until Mom quite literally snapped you out of it. His chest rises and falls calmly beneath you, and his hands sit limp across your lap. You turn your head to look at Robin, who's sunbathing herself. "Rob! Is he asleep?" You whisper to her, and she looks over at Eddie's face. She nods with a smirk, and you hatch an idea on how to wake him up. She seems to pick up on this, watching in amusement while you carefully move his arms and climb off the lounger. You try to scoot him closer to the edge of the pool, but he's too heavy. "Steve!" You whisper-yell to him.

"What?" He answers, a little too loud.

"Shh! C'mere and help me." You wave him closer with your hand, and his eyes flick down to your snoozing boyfriend.

"He's gonna kill us for this, you know." Steve warns, but he helps you slowly drag the chair over to the lip of the pool anyway. The metal legs squeak against the concrete as you scoot Eddie along, and you're worried he'll wake up any second now. He doesn't seem to stir, so you keep going until the chair is in place. Then, you and Steve gradually lift the top upright, effectively dumping Eddie right into the water. The movement startles him awake, and he lets out a weak scream when he realizes what's happening. He flails his arms to grab at the air, and makes a huge splash when he hits the water. Everyone laughs, watching Eddie pop back up a second later. He shakes his hair out, and he coughs as he got some water up his nose.

"What the fuck?!" He yells, looking to find you doubled over in hysterics at your little prank. He crosses his arms, clearly unamused at you waking him up this way. His shirt is soaked, clinging annoyingly to his body. And his sandals have floated off his feet to the surface of the water. "Real mature, guys." He grumbles, and you try and fail to apologize. You can't stop laughing, which makes for the perfect distraction. You watch Eddie's scowl quickly turn into a grin, and you realize your mistake. You've turned your back on your co-conspirators.

"Oh, shit." You murmur. Before you can even begin to deter them, Steve and Jonathan scoop you up into their grip. They take hold of your ankles and wrists. They bring you to the edge of the pool, positioning you parallel to it. "No, no! Put me down, guys! Don't do this!" You shout and try to fight your way out of their hold, but it's no use. Everyone keeps laughing, finding this display to be the funniest thing they've ever seen. Eddie looks at you, and you meet his eyes. You silently plead with him to call this off, to tell the guys to let you go.

"Sorry, sweetheart. It's only fair." He shrugs, smiling smugly at you. The boys swing you over the water once, twice, three times, before they let you go.

"NO!" You scream as your stomach drops. You can see yourself falling in slow motion, clawing at your face to plug your nose before you reach the water. You close your eyes, awaiting the impact of your body splashing into the cold pool. The liquid consumes you not a moment later, and your shorts immediately suck themselves onto your flesh. You sink all the way to the bottom, before shoving yourself back up to the surface. "Dammit! This is why I hate pranks!" You shriek once you breach, before falling into contagious laughter again.

Eddie swims over to you, pulling his shirt over his head to toss it over the side of the pool. It splats against the cement, creating a small puddle. "I'd say we're even now, princess." He gives you a gentle smile to forgive you for the trick you pulled.

"I've definitely learned my lesson." You sigh, reaching under the water to undo your shorts. You awkwardly kick them off, and throw them out to dry.

"Mmm, all is forgiven when you're in this little number." Eddie burns, bringing you closer by the waist. His hands grab your ass roughly, and you'd moan out loud if it wouldn't give you both away.

"You just can't keep your hands to yourself today, can you?" You tease, sneakily putting your own hand between your bodies to ghost over the front of his swim trunks. It doesn't stay there long, just enough for you to feel him get semi-hard. You raise your palm up along his stomach and chest afterwards, stilling over his spider tattoo.

"What can I say? Patriotism makes me horny." He jokes, making you both laugh lowly.

"Oh, please. You're an anarchist if I've ever seen one." You reply, slipping out of his grip to swim backwards to the other end of the pool. He casually follows you, holding your gaze.

"I hardly think I'm that chaotic, Y/N." He says, collecting his shoes and yours as he goes. He chucks them over by the chairs, managing to miss everyone's heads. "Besides, I would never limit myself to follow any singular ideology."

"Please tell me you're not gonna go over the 'Munson Doctrine' again." You let out an exaggerated groan, rolling your eyes and turning your back to him.

"And why shouldn't I?" He asks, catching up to you. He gently takes hold of your arm, making you face him again.

"Well, for one, I already know it by heart. And two, it's a bit out of date. It's far too cynical, and you're much more romantic now." You state simply, stilling in place.

"Oh, I see. In that case, maybe we can make a new one together." Eddie offers.

"Do we even need one at all, Eds? We're in love, not starting a political movement." You brush the idea off, taking his hands to pull him along with you. You slowly glide along the water, calmly swaying to and fro.

"Hmm, I suppose you're right. We have a pretty damn good understanding of each other, don't we?" He replies with a smile, dropping the subject. He's come to the conclusion that his previous values don't really align with who he is anymore. The core idea, individualism, will always be important to him. But there's no need for him to cling to the childish rules he set up for himself at the ripe age of thirteen. Jesus, I've been that stringent for a whole decade? What the hell was I thinking? He shakes his head at himself, feeling a bit silly over the whole thing.

"We really do, Eddie. We keep each other balanced, while also encouraging reasonable risk. We love and support one another to the ends of the universe. That's all we need." You answer lovingly, continuing your fluid movements around the perimeter of the pool. This is really nice. Just being here...with him...enjoying every single second. I could do this for the rest of my life.

A few hours 一and several rounds of chicken fights and Marco Polo一 later, the sun has completely disappeared from the sky and the fireworks display is about to begin. The explosives themselves are lit in an open field far away from all residential areas of Hawkins, and shot as far into the sky as possible to ensure everyone in town can see them. You sit on the edge of the pool, still soaking your feet in its cool waters. Eddie's perched next to you, holding your hand and keeping you leaned into him as you watch the bright sparks burst in the pitch black sky. Booms and blasts interrupt the stillness of the night air, followed by satisfying crackles and blooms of glorious color.

You notice Eddie looking over at his uncle, checking to make sure he's doing alright with all the explosions. He'd warned you before that sounds like that can set Wayne off, as they're very similar to the sounds of war. The man doesn't talk about it much, but there's definitely some leftover trauma inside his head from his years in Vietnam. You give the old man a curious glance as well, noticing his knee bobbing up and down anxiously. His face is fixed in an odd expression, like he's waiting for something bad to happen. "Is he gonna be alright?" You ask Eddie, drawing his eyes to you.

"I dunno. He usually stays at home during fireworks, with massive headphones on to block out the noise. Shit, I should've brought them with us." Eddie scolds himself for being so careless. Wayne would never do such a thing on his own, he's far too proud for that. But if Eddie presented him with the headgear, he'd gladly wear it.

"I could ask Steve if he has some? Or we could take him inside to muffle the sound a bit? I'd hate for him to get upset, Eds." You try to work with him to come up with a solution, and Eddie nods.

"It's probably better to go inside, Y/N. He might already be in the process of a fit."

"Okay." You nod, and the two of you stand up and go to Wayne, whose hands are clinging to the arms of the chair he's sitting in for dear life.

"Let's go inside for a while, Wayne." Eddie says to him, and the old man nods frantically. You feel bad for him, he looks so afraid, and like he's holding something back for everyone else's sake. You and Eddie take one of his hands apiece, quietly leading him into the house through the sliding glass door. You close the door behind you, and Eddie sits Wayne down in one of the dining room chairs. The booms and blasts are still slightly audible, but it's much quieter in here. "You gonna be alright, Wayne?" Eddie asks in concern.

"Yeah, uh, I'll be fine, kid. Thank you." Wayne replies shakily.

"Is there anything we can get for you?" You kindly offer.

"Some water, if ya don't mind." He replies, giving you his best attempt at a smile.

"Sure thing." You return the sentiment, going over to the kitchen to fetch a glass. You can hear the two of them conversing through the doorway.

"I'm sorry, Wayne. We should've brought your headphones. I totally forgot." Eddie says apologetically.

"It's alright, Ed. I didn't think much of it, 'til it was too late." Wayne says, trying to put his nephew at ease. The poor kid shouldn't have to worry about him so much.

"Everything okay in here?" Hopper asks as he enters the house. He must have noticed you three abruptly leaving the festivities. You return to the room as he speaks, handing the glass off to Wayne.

"Yeah, just a little stress left over from the War, Hop. I'm sure you understand." Wayne answers, and Hopper immediately nods in understanding.

"Yeah, uh. A lot of my old buddies are like this, too." The burly man says, in an effort to give comfort to Wayne that he isn't alone in this.

"Not you, though, I take it? Lucky bastard." Wayne says with a laugh, pulling one from Jim as well.

"Well, I wouldn't say that. Agent Orange still got me pretty good." Hopper replies, coming off more bitter than he means to.

"Shit, I'm sorry 'bout that." Wayne tuts.

"Well, it looks like you two have something to talk about. We'll leave you to it." You chime in, sensing this conversation is going to go right over your head. "Just call us if you need anything, Wayne."

"Thanks, Y/N, Edward." Wayne nods at the two of you, and you leave the room to grab another beer. You pull two out of the cooler, handing one off to Eddie. You sit on the counter like you were earlier, sipping silently while the two men talk in the other room. You hear Hopper pull a chair over to get comfortable, and the two of them share stories. You're surprised they have so much in common, they're two very different people. But it's nice that Wayne has someone to talk through his war experiences with, there aren't a whole lot of people like that around here.

You don't mean to eavesdrop, truly. It's more like you're respecting their words, and the emotional weight of them. You hear Wayne recount his tale of Madeline again, and Hopper meets it with the tragic story of his daughter, Sarah. You hadn't heard this story before, you didn't even know Jim was married before Joyce. You're not like most people in this town, nosey busy-bodies that have an incessant need to know everyone's personal demons. A couple tears escape your eyes at the heartbreak in Jim's voice when he tells Wayne what happened to Sarah. It's so awful, all the man wanted was a family. But those chemicals used in the war took that from him, and in the cruelest way imaginable. He had that little glimmer of hope that, despite the odds, he could have a chance at happiness. Only for it to be snatched away a few years later.

"You okay, sweetheart?" Eddie asks quietly, noticing your glistening eyes.

"I'm fine. We probably shouldn't be listening to this." You're about to hop down from the counter and move somewhere else to give them some privacy, but Eddie stops you.

"It's a bit late for that now. And if we make any noise, they'll know we've been listening." He whispers, keeping you still.

"I suppose. It's not exactly how I wanted tonight to end, though." You speak solemnly, your legs swaying back and forth out of habit.

"I doubt anyone involved had this scenario in mind, love. I'm sure they'll be done soon. Just give them their time, they're owed that much." Eddie calls your little conversation to a close, and you both continue to listen to the two men until the party's over.

The families gradually file back inside the house, gathering their Tupperware and other various belongings to set off back home. Eddie runs out to the pool to get your clothes and shoes, quickly returning to your side to put them back on. You rejoin Dustin, Mom, and Wayne at the front door, waiting for your turn to leave and thank Steve for inviting you over.

"Thanks for coming, you guys. Tonight was really fun." Steve says, seeming a little sad that everyone is leaving him alone in this big empty house.

"It sure was, Harrington. We had a great time, we should do this more often." Eddie answers on behalf of your group. You're very thankful for this, as your eyes have begun to droop in fatigue. You're very much looking forward to going home and getting some rest.

"You got it, man. Drive safe." Steve pats Eddie on the back, and gives you, Dustin, and Mom a hug. He closes the door behind you once you step outside, and you wave to the other cars as they drive away from the house. Your group piles into the car, with Eddie in the driver's seat this time.

"You guys ready to go home?" Eddie asks, feeling quite exhausted himself.

"Yes, please." You all answer him at the same time.

"You got it." Eddie nods, turning the key in the ignition and pulling out of the driveway. He drives over to the trailer first to drop Wayne off. He parks outside their humble home, hopping out of the car and going around to Wayne's door to help him out. He still seems a little shaken by the fireworks, so Eddie's being extra careful with him. You watch sleepily as the two of them go up the little steps and inside the house. You start to doze off after they've been in there for a few minutes. You imagine Eddie might be picking up some extra clothes to bring over to your place. Your eyes flutter closed, and you smile in serenity at how nice today has been. 

"Y/N, wake up!" Eddie shouts to you in what feels like only seconds after you fall asleep.

"Wha-what's wrong, Eds?" You open your eyes again, finding that you're still at the trailer. Mom and Dustin have gotten out of the car already, you can see them in the kitchen from the trailer door sitting open. You hear Wayne yelling from the living room, what sounds like battle strategies and orders to men who aren't there. Oh, shit.

"Y/N, I don't know what to do! He's never been this bad before! He doesn't know where he is, and I can't calm him down!" Eddie says frantically, tears streaming down his face. His skin is covered in red splotches from his hysterics, he's completely panicking.

"Okay, okay. Slow down, love. Show me what's happening." You reply as calmly as you can. You're still disoriented from your slumber, and it feels very late. Eddie practically yanks you out of the car, and you almost trip over your own feet as he pulls you toward his home. You both stumble up the stairs clumsily and you see Wayne crouched in the corner by the couch. He's holding a broom like a rifle, and his eyes keep darting around. He's mumbling to himself, occasionally looking to either side of him, as if there's other people crouched right next to him.

"Stay back, you VietCong bastards!" Wayne shouts once you and Eddie are inside. His eyes are wide and wild, and his chest heaves harshly while he points the end of the broom in your direction.

"Wayne, please. We're not gonna hurt you. The war is over, and you're safe at home." Eddie tearfully tries to get his uncle to calm down, taking a few cautious steps in his direction.

"I said stay back, dammit! Or I'll blast yer yella head off to kingdom come!" Wayne jabs the broom, making Eddie flinch. Eddie's feet come to a stop, and his hands are raised in surrender.

"Wayne, just put the broom down. You're having an episode. You need to calm down, and come back to us." Eddie moves a little further, only a few feet away from Wayne now. He reaches a hand forward towards the broom handle, inching closer and closer. Wayne's frozen in place, staring down his nephew like he's a foreign enemy. He truly doesn't know where he is, or that Eddie is trying to help him.

You look over to Mom and Dustin, who are watching this scene play out in silent discomfort. "What do we do, Mom?" You ask, holding back a sob. You've never seen anything like this before, and it's honestly the most terrifying and heartbreaking thing you've ever seen. Wayne's trapped in an awful memory, and none of you know how to get him out.

"I don't know, honey. I'm sorry." Mom replies weakly, shaking her head in defeat.

"What do you want us to do, Eddie?" You ask as he's almost reached his uncle now. Just a couple more inches, and he can get a hold of the broom.

"Just give me a second, almost there." Eddie says shakily, trying to remain calm and collected. His hand just barely touches the broom now, when Wayne jerks it upwards and smacks him square in the nose with it. "Fuck!" He shouts, stumbling backwards as his nose begins to gush blood.

"I told you I'd get ya if you came any closer, you fucker!" Wayne shrieks, before retreating down the hall and into the bathroom. He slams and locks the door, and proceeds to make a new plan of attack with his make-believe platoon.

"Oh, shit! Eddie!" You cry out, going to Eddie. He's clutching his bleeding face, more tears springing from his eyes at the pain. He feels so helpless, Wayne is too far gone. He needs outside help. "C'mere, baby." You lead him over to the sink, grabbing a grungy dish towel sitting beside it. "Hold this on your nose, okay? And tilt your head back." You carefully instruct. He does as you ask, and you stroke his arm lightly. He looks at you as best he can, his pupils begging you for help.

"I'll call an ambulance. I think he might need a hospital." Mom says, going for the telephone on the wall.

"Please don't do that, Claudia. They'll put him in a psych ward if you do that. And I can't do that to him. I promised I wouldn't." Eddie pleads, thinking that if Wayne is just given a little time, he'll come around on his own.

"Sweetie, he doesn't know where he is right now. And he hurt you. He might hurt someone else, or even himself." Mom kindly explains.

"But he didn't mean to! He一" Eddie tries to interrupt, but she just shakes her head.

"We aren't equipped to handle this on our own, Eddie. He's going to be okay, and he's going to get the help he needs. I promise we won't let anything bad happen to him, okay?" She implores him to see reason. You're all out of your depth here, there's nothing else you can do for Wayne.

Eddie shakes his head in protest, but no more words leave his lips. He's becoming distraught again, his mind shutting down from the overwhelming emotions swirling around the interior of the trailer. He sobs, loudly and harshly, slowly slipping against the counter and down to the kitchen floor. You kneel beside him, holding him close to you as he gives up. He keeps clutching the rag to his nose as best he can, and Mom dials 911. Dustin comes to sit on the other side of Eddie, putting a kind hand on his shoulder.

"He's gonna be okay, love. I promise. We won't let them take him anywhere he wouldn't want to be, alright? No psych wards, none of that." You coo to Eddie as he continues to cry. You stay sat on the floor, waiting for the ambulance to arrive while Wayne continues to shout inside the bathroom.

The ambulance shows up a few minutes later, and the EMTs come in with a gurney outfitted with wrist and ankle restraints. "Where is he?" A familiar face asks. Chad, the same man who took care of you at the theater, and the Denny's parking lot. He gives you a small smile when he looks at you, and you take it upon yourself to show him and his partner where Wayne has holed himself up.

"I think he locked the door, and I don't think he'll let you in." You explain awkwardly. You're not sure what the proper thing to say in this situation is. You stand in the hall as the two men stall outside the door.

"Hmm, that could be a problem. I'd hate to break it down to get to him." Chad replies, crossing his arms while he thinks of something. He examines the door, noticing a small pinhole in the middle of the knob. "Do you have any bobby pins or paper clips around? I think I can pick the lock without damaging the door." His eyes flick to you again, and you nod.

"Yeah, one sec." You quickly jog over to Eddie, kneeling beside him for a moment. "You got a Bobby pin or something, Eds? The EMTs are gonna try to pick the lock to get Wayne out."

"Uh, yeah." Eddie replies quietly, using his free hand to dig around his pockets. He always keeps a couple lock-picking items on his person, in case of emergencies...or when he gets an itch for some petty crime. He locates one in his trunks, fumbling to get it out and hand it to you. You take it in your hands, leaving his side to give it to Chad.

"Here." You say as you hand it over.

"Thanks, Y/N. You might wanna get back now. Once that door opens, we'll need to try and sedate him. And I'd hate for the needle to go into the wrong patient." Chad kindly instructs you, and you prudently listen. You go back to Eddie and the others, sitting on the floor while the men tinker around with the doorknob. They manage to get the thing open, and quickly descend upon Eddie's uncle. The old man shrieks and swings the broom around. But he's no match for the two strong, built young men. They quickly, but carefully wrench the broom out of his grip, and the other EMT secures his arms behind his back while Chad administers the sedative. The shuffling and screaming goes quiet a moment later. Wayne is gently placed onto the gurney, and Chad secures his wrists and ankles just in case he wakes up before they reach the hospital. "Okay, let's get him in the vehicle. But I wanna check out the kid's nose before we leave." Chad's partner nods at him, and wheels Wayne's unconscious body out of the trailer and into the ambulance.

"Where are you taking him?" Eddie asks tearfully as Chad approaches your huddle.

"Just the hospital, kid. For now, at least. The doctors will determine what he needs from there. But first, let me check out that nose. I'd hate for you to have broken it again." Chad speaks in a friendly way to your saddened boyfriend, he's got quite a way with handling distraught people.

"O-okay." Eddie hiccups as his tears have run out. He lowers the blood-soaked rag, allowing Chad to examine him. He winces at the man's fingers touching his nose, but he calms down at the feeling of your hand on his.

"Hmm, it doesn't appear to be broken. It'll definitely bruise, but it looks like you got lucky this time." Chad smiles at Eddie, before looking at you. "Clean off the blood, and give him an ice pack. Once he's set, I'd advise you all to come to the hospital immediately. Depending on how urgent they find Mr. Munson's situation to be, they might put him in a psych hold for at least seventy-two hours." He gives your group a fair warning, as if he can somehow sense that you don't want the poor man to be locked away in a padded room.

"Thank you, Chad. We'll get there as soon as possible." You reply, leading Eddie to stand so you can clean him up.

"Okay, good. Well, we'd better get going. I won't see you later, but I wish you all the best of luck." Chad says, before leaving the trailer altogether. He hops into the ambulance, closing the heavy doors. His partner drives them all away, and you run the kitchen faucet to wash the blood off of Eddie's nose. Mom gets him some ice, placing the cubes in a zip-lock bag. Once he's all dry, he takes the ice and holds it to his swelling face.

"Alright. Let's go. I'm not giving these fuckin' doctors a chance in hell to put Wayne away." Eddie speaks with newfound resolve. He quickly heads for the door, and the rest of you follow suit. You jump into the driver's seat, clicking your seat belt as fast as you can. You peel out of the driveway, speeding off to the hospital.

"Jesus, Y/N! Slow down!" Mom exclaims, gripping the side of her passenger door for dear life.

"Shut it, Mom! We have to get there fast, we don't have a lot of time." You yell back, making a sharp right turn.

You continue your manic maneuvers the entire way, parking rather crooked in the hospital parking lot. Eddie hops out first, and it takes everything in you to keep up with him. He goes to the front desk, giving the nurse Wayne's name. He gets pointed in the right direction, and he waits for you to catch up.

"C'mon, room 103!" He cries, before speeding off again. You continue to run after him, you can hear Mom struggling to keep her breath behind you. Eddie locates the right room, and dashes inside. You follow closely after, with Dustin and Mom coming in just moments later. Eddie goes to Wayne's side, taking hold of one of his restrained hands. He's dressed in a hospital gown, with an IV and heart monitor attached to him. He's still asleep, looking rather peaceful now.

"Ah, you must be...Eddie, the nephew." A doctor says as he walks into the room, reading from Wayne's medical chart.

"Yeah. Is he gonna be okay?" Eddie asks, looking at the man in his big white coat. He's a rather stout man, with blinding white hair and horn-rimmed glasses. His tag reads 'Dr. Andrew Martin'.

"He's going to be fine, young man. He's been sedated, but he'll wake up soon. I also want to put any fears of him being put into a mental hospital to rest." Dr. Martin says, which puts you all at ease. "I have no intention of doing so, there's no need for it. Wayne's got what the medical community has come to accept as 'Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder'. It's very common in war vets, and your uncle is a textbook case. I understand he was having a flashback, yes?"

"Yeah." Eddie replies softly, looking at his uncle again.

"Right. Well, it's one of the primary symptoms of such a disorder. Due to how horrific and violent war is, it can cause someone like Wayne to believe that they are back in those awful memories. These flashbacks can be triggered by various things, namely loud noises that resemble explosions or gunshots. I'm guessing since it's the fourth of July, it was brought on by hearing fireworks." The doctor explains, and you all nod in understanding of his words.

"Yeah, I...I know they make him anxious. We were at a barbecue, and I'd meant to bring his headphones along to block them out. But I forgot them. I didn't know the noise would make him like this." Eddie says, feeling so guilty for forgetting such an important thing. He could've prevented this from happening, if he hadn't been so stupid.

"There's no way you could have known. This disorder is still considered pretty new, at least in diagnostic terms. But there's also a new drug on the market that is clinically proven to help quell the flashbacks, and also nightmares he might be experiencing."

"What is it?" Eddie asks, hoping this option will keep Wayne from being locked away.

"It's called prazosin. It's just a pill he'd take once a day, and it'll give him the relief he needs." The doctor answers, and Eddie nods. "I will say, though, this drug is a little bit tricky. We're not sure what dosage it will take to alleviate his symptoms. We always start on a low dose, but with how severe Wayne's case seems to be, he might need more. What I mean to say is, it will take some trial and error. And there's no telling how often he'll have these episodes in the meantime."

"So what does that mean?" Eddie asks, thinking this might not be the good news he was looking for after all.

"It means, you'll have to keep a closer eye on him. I know that can be difficult, life is always a busy thing. But I implore you to make any changes that are reasonable to you, Wayne needs all the help he can get. For his safety, and for all of yours. He may not mean to be violent or dangerous during these episodes, but he's too unpredictable to ignore." The doctor says solemnly. He truly feels for you, this kind of thing is never easy on a family.

"We'll do everything we can to help him, Dr. Martin." You chime in.

"Of course. I can see he's well-loved. I'll leave you to it, and I'll bring over the pills in a bit. Just let the nurses know if you need anything, Wayne should be discharged in the morning." The doctor leaves the room, and the four of you watch over Wayne with concerned eyes.

"I dunno what I'm gonna do, Y/N. Can he go to work like this? Can I? I might have to stay home with him...I don't know for how long." Eddie says, partially thinking out loud.

"We'll figure it out, Eddie. And we'll all do our part to help Wayne. He's a good man, and we love him just as much as you do, okay?" You say sweetly, bringing a chair over to sit beside Eddie. You put your arm around him, and he melts into you a bit. He's still holding Wayne's hand all the while, a couple tears escaping his eyes as he looks at his uncle sleeping in this dreadful place. He's always hated hospitals. To him, they signify death and disease. He hates every second spent in here, wishing he could take Wayne home right now.

"You guys should go home, I'm good to stay here with Wayne." Eddie says, breaking the silence.

"I can drive Mom and Dustin home and come back." You offer, wanting to stay by Eddie's side as much as you can. He turns his head to you, giving you a serious look.

"No, you should go too. You've got work in the morning, love. You can tell Biggs what's going on tomorrow, work something out. But I have to stay here. I have to be here for him." Eddie urges you to get some rest, to allow him to take charge here.

"How are you gonna get home?" You ask, unsure what Eddie's plan is, if he even has one at all.

"Shit, I dunno. We'll get a cab, or something." He says, exasperation lacing his tone. He's not exactly in the mood to figure anything out right now. All he wants is to be present for Wayne in his time of need.

"Eddie, don't be silly. Surely someone can give you a ride. I'll call around and find someone, okay? I'm sure any one of our friends will be happy to help you two out." You suggest, realizing he is not going to back down on this. He wants his space, just him and Wayne right now. And as much as it stings, you understand. There'll be plenty of opportunities for you to help out, but he's right. You can barely keep your eyes open, and sleep threatens to take hold of you again as you sit here.

"Okay, fine. But please, go home, Y/N. You need to sleep, and I'll call you tomorrow. I love you, sweetheart. And I appreciate all your help." Eddie replies, officially laying the issue to rest. There's no more debate, no need to argue. You're both too fucking tired to put up a fight. This is what's best, as much as it pains either of you to be apart.

"I love you too, Eds. And please let me know what the plan is as soon as you figure it out. I wanna be there for you, and for Wayne. You're part of my family now." You say tearfully, leaning in to give him a heart-wrenching kiss goodbye. You're sure you won't be separated for long, but it will still end up feeling like a million years.

"I promise I will. Goodnight, princess." He says as you get up to leave.

"Goodnight, baby." You sniffle, before taking Mom and Dustin's hands in yours.

"Bye, Eddie." The others add quietly, and the three of you leave the room. You can't help the rush of tears that spout from your eyes as you leave. It always hurts to let Eddie go, even for a single second. But you stifle the cries and sobs, there's no need for the noise now. Everything will be fine, you think to yourself, just calm down, go home, get some rest. It'll all be better tomorrow.

The drive home is silent, with Dustin in the driver's seat this time. You're too exhausted to drive, and tears are still annoyingly blurring your vision. This day was so good, and turned so bad in a matter of minutes. You worry about Wayne, and Eddie, and what the future holds for you now. Your plans may no longer be viable, if Wayne needs his nephew to take care of him long-term. But that's not what's most important now, no. What's most important is making sure they both cope as well as they can with this, to make sure they can work it out.

Once you return home, you set to work calling to set up a ride for Eddie. You peek at the clock on the wall, it's already after midnight. You hate to wake people up, but this is urgent. You have one thing you can do to assist your love, and you damn well plan to do it. You decide to stick to people who won't be too bothered by such a late call. You try the Mayfields first, but there's no answer. Then you call Hopper and Joyce at the hotel they're staying at. No answer there, either. Fuck. You frustratingly dial one more number, Steve's. He picks up immediately, and you tell him what's going on. He agrees to give Wayne and Eddie a ride home tomorrow, and you thank him profusely. He says it's no trouble at all, and that he's always around to help. You bid him goodnight, and hang up a moment after your plan is set in stone.

Your eyelids grow heavier as you put the headset back in its cradle, and Mom silently ushers you to your bedroom. She lets you be once you've entered, closing the door behind her. You mindlessly strip off your bathing suit and shorts, not bothering to put anything else on. You slip into bed, completely nude, and pass out as soon as your head meets the pillow.

Part 26.2: Born In the USA

Wednesday, July 5th, 1989

Your alarm clock startles you awake in the morning, and you reach a hand over to smack it into snoozing submission. You had the strangest dreams last night, all of them about Eddie and Wayne. You don't particularly remember what happened in them, they didn't feel like nightmares. But you suppose there's no way to be sure. You rub the sleep from your eyes, finding Arwen snuggled up next to you on your pillow.

"Good morning, little one." You coo to her, giving her a gentle stroke along her back. She's been getting a little bigger now, almost outgrowing her collar. You make a note to get the next size up when you're out and about today. The kitten stirs at your touch, her little jaws opening wide to release a silent yawn. She blinks her eyes open to look at you, and you smile at her. "God, you're cute as ever, Arwen." You giggle, before sitting up to get out of bed. You slip on your robe, tying the silken strap tight to conceal your naked body. You refill the cat's bowls, and mozy along the hallway to the kitchen. You're absolutely starving, in the mood for a big bowl of Honeycomb cereal. It's actually Eddie's favorite, and you never ate it much before you got reacquainted with him. Eddie. Your heart sinks when you think of him. You wonder how he's doing, if he's slept at all. Knowing him, though, he probably hasn't.

Just as you're about to move on to something else, the phone rings. You go over to it, abandoning breakfast for the time being. You pick up the headset, bringing it to your ear. "Y/N?" You hear Eddie's voice on the other end.

"Yeah, Eds. It's me. What's up?" You reply.

"Well, we're back home now. Thanks for getting Harrington to give us a ride, by the way." Eddie says gratefully.

"Of course, love. How's Wayne?"

"He's alright, he's still a bit groggy from the sedative. But he's doing better, and he'll be able to take his meds later on. But I'm gonna stay with him today and see how it goes. The doctor said he could have another episode pretty soon after the first one." Eddie explains calmly, though you sense a hint of tiredness and stress in his voice.

"Is there anything I can do, baby?" You ask, wanting to help, to see him and be with him again.

"Just being here will be enough, princess. Come by after work, okay? You don't have to stay the night, I know Arwen needs you. But...I miss you. I've missed you since the second you left the hospital." His breath catches at the end there, he's trying to hold back tears.

"I miss you, too, Eds. Have you slept at all?" You ask.

"...No." Eddie hesitates to admit.

"I'm sorry, baby. I know this whole thing has been really hard on you." You tut, wishing you could embrace him through the phone.

"Not as hard as it's been on Wayne. I'll be fine, Y/N. I'll try to rest sometime today. I'm just so worried that something will happen, and I'll be sleeping right through it." His voice trembles, he's barely keeping it together. The sheer thought of Wayne needing him and missing it shakes him to his core. He can't let that happen, he won't. Not after everything his uncle has done for him all these years.

"I know, love. But you can't put your own well-being at risk either. Just take a short nap at least, set an alarm if you need to. I don't want you to end up too tired to help Wayne if he needs it." You hope Eddie will heed your advice, things could get ugly real fast if he's running on empty like this.

"I will, sweetheart. I'm so fucking tired, I could fall asleep standing straight up right now." He sighs, forcing his eyes to stay open as he wraps this call up. His bed is calling to him, and if he takes your suggestion, he can make this work. He just needs a little time to gain some sliver of energy to keep dealing with this.

"Okay, I'll let you go, Eddie. I'll be over there after work. I love you, baby."

"I love you too, Y/N. See you later." Eddie breathes, failing to hold back a yawn. He hangs up a second later, and you put the phone back together on the table. You return to your much-desired cereal, pouring a large bowl for yourself. Dustin's long gone to Family Video for his shift, and he dropped Mom off at work as well. So that leaves your bike as your transportation today, but you don't mind. You can change clothes at the theater, that way you aren't all sweaty and gross.

You munch down your breakfast, and shower and dress in a simple t-shirt and shorts. You pack your uniform in your backpack, along with some extra clothes and toiletries. You also leave a note for Dustin to spend a little time with Arwen, make sure she's fed and such. He's always happy to help with the cat, and you definitely need it today. Once you're all set to go, you head off downtown on your bicycle. You make sure to be as careful and cautious as you can, you've never rushed yourself again since your little accident.

You arrive at the theater in what feels like no time at all, you'd spent the whole ride thinking about Eddie again. You can't help it, your mind keeps wandering back to him, no matter what you try to think of instead. Hopefully he's sleeping, instead of driving himself nuts over Wayne's condition. It's driving you nuts that you have to spend the entire workday without him, and training new employees during it, no less. All you want is to skip it and go where you belong. By his side, supporting him. Ugh, today is gonna be miserable. Better put on a brave face. You sigh loudly as you stand outside the Hawk, swallowing hard afterwards. "Fuck me." You head inside, and make a beeline for the bathroom to change.

"Morning, Y/N. How are you today?" Biggs asks as you cross his path.

"I'm alright. I'll need to talk to you about something once I'm dressed, though, sir." You reply, and he curls a brow at you. He notices Eddie's absent from your side, which he never is.

"Okay, I'll be in my office when you're ready." He says, heading on his way to assist Harriet with the expense reports again. You nod, and continue on your journey. You put on your uniform, letting Red Shirt Y/N take control for the time being. You're going to need your armor to work overtime this shift, you're only hoping it's up to the task. Taking one last look at your reflection, you straighten your name tag and bow tie. You take a deep breath, exhaling loudly. Just a few hours, and then you can be with Eddie. You leave the restroom, and put your bag away in your locker. You turn around to go into Biggs' office, closing the door behind you for privacy. "So, what do you have to talk to me about, Y/N?" He asks dryly, looking at his watch as he wonders where your long-haired boyfriend is.

"Well, um, it's about Eddie." You reply, and he looks at you with piqued interest. You explain the situation to him, emphasizing the fact that Eddie will need to spend more time at home. He listens intently to your every word, nodding his head every so often as you speak.

"Well, I'm sure we can work something out. The new hires can pick up the slack once they're trained. And please, give Eddie our deepest sympathies. Tell him to take as much time as he needs, he's always got a place here at the Hawk." Biggs says sympathetically, putting a kind hand on your shoulder. As severe as the man seems to be, he has quite the heart when it comes to his loyal employees.

"Thank you, sir. I'll make sure to tell him. And I'll get right to work training the newbies." You respond, turning on your heels to get started with your day. You meet your new employees by the concession stand. First, there's Max, with her long, red hair in braids and a striped tank-top and shorts. The other new addition is a young man named Marcus. He's quite tall, almost as tall as Mr. Biggs. He's sporting a pristine styled flat-top, some acid-wash jeans, and a Hawkins Tigers basketball jersey. "Morning, you two. I hope you're excited to get started, there's quite a bit to go over today. It's nice to see you again, Max. And I'm looking forward to getting to know you, Marcus." You greet them with a smile, which they both return.

You issue their uniforms, allowing them a moment to change into them. Afterwards, you lead them through every role the Hawk requires one by one. You start at the ticket booth, followed by concessions, the auditorium, and ending with the projection room. They take everything you say very seriously, absorbing all the information with ease. It's not really a difficult job, but you're glad they're picking it up quickly. Once they're familiar with the various roles, you leave them in the breakroom to fill out their paperwork. You tell them to ask you if they have any questions, which they thankfully do not. You've got to man concessions for Eddie today, as well as adjust the schedule. You keep the sheets on a clipboard close to you on the counter, allowing you to work on them in between customers.

You leave Eddie off the schedules for the time being, just until you talk to him later on. You hate to potentially take all his hours away, but if it's what he needs, that's what you'll do. You'll still have to work full-time given your higher role here at the Hawk, which is not going to be easy for you. However, you don't find your wants and needs to be very important at the moment. You already know that Eddie will get on you about it, he hates when you neglect yourself for his sake. But in your opinion, it's unfair for you to desire or require anything when he's struggling.

"Hey, Y/N? Can you help me with this form? I'm not sure how to fill it out." Marcus asks politely, showing you his half-blank W-4.

"Oh, yeah. These forms are always weird the first time, it's just for tax purposes." You look over the piece of paper, noticing he's only neglected the bottom half. You put it in the simplest terms for him, helping him put in his allotments and exemptions for a single person. "There we go, easy peasy. They sure do word it oddly, but once you do it once, it's not rocket science." You say with a smile.

"Thanks, Y/N. I appreciate it." Marcus replies, before heading back to fill out the rest of his papers. You return to your own task, penciling in Jamie now. You'll have to wait for Max and Marcus' availability sheets to finish this, but you think you remember them both telling you they want as many hours as possible in their interviews.

You check your watch, finding that you've only been here for three hours. Five more to go, excruciatingly long and boring as ever without Eddie's usual wit. Though you doubt you'll find much of that when you go over to his place later on, either. You're not really sure what you'll find, you only hope it's not anything even half as horrible as the events of last night. You sigh aloud again, as you've been doing multiple times today. You feel so...surly and out of it. Every second sticks like molasses, keeping time from progressing normally. And you have the overwhelming urge to smash the glass counter beneath you to ease your frustration. I shouldn't be here, I should be with him. This is so fucking unfair. He needs me, and I can't be there. He'd drop everything for me, I know he would. So what am I still doing here?

"Everything okay?" Max asks, startling you out of your stewing thoughts.

"Uh, yeah. It's just Eddie, he's not here today." You reply shortly, not wanting to spill Eddie's private business, even to someone you consider a friend.

"Well, where is he?" Max raises an eyebrow, growing suspicious.

"He's at home, taking care of his uncle." You answer, still holding back vital details.

"Wayne? What's wrong with him? Is he sick?" Worry laces her tone, and you remember them talking at the barbecue yesterday.

"Um, kinda." You say, hesitating to add anything else. You know she wouldn't go around telling everyone about it. But still, it's not your business to tell.

"You can tell me, you know. As a friend." She presses further.

"I know. I just don't want everyone knowing about it. I don't want people to look at him differently." You speak cautiously, still struggling to determine what the right move is here.

"I won't tell, I promise. But I can tell it's bothering you, Y/N. I just wanna listen." She says kindly, giving you a small smile.

"Alright. But you keep your mouth shut. Got it?" You warn, pointing a stern finger in her direction.

"My lips are sealed!" She mimics locking her lips and throwing away the key. With this reassurance, you lean in close to tell her what's going on. She listens quietly, no hint of judgment on her face. You add on how you've been feeling today, and how much you wish you could leave work behind. "I'm sorry, Y/N. That's terrible." She offers, unsure what else to say. She'd gone through something similar when her brother Billy died in a car accident a few years ago. She was in the car with him, and he was driving recklessly at night. He swerved off the road, ramming the driver's side of his muscle car right into a power line. He was killed on impact, but Max walked away with only a few minor cuts and bruises. She had nightmares for weeks afterwards, and refused to ride in any car for even longer than that. Therapy seemed to help, as she barely even thinks about the accident anymore.

"Yeah, it really is. But hopefully the meds will help him. I worry about Eddie more than anything else. He's been a total wreck, he didn't sleep at all last night." You sigh again, quickly becoming annoyed at yourself for doing it so often. It seems to help, though, releasing small amounts of stress into the air instead of holding it all in. You could just about burst at this rate. "You wanna help me restock the candy?" You ask, changing the subject.

"Sure thing." Max kindly replies.

You manage to get through the rest of your shift relatively easily. Max keeps you company at concessions, while Marcus works on auditorium clean-up. You ask her about her old life in California, and you share a few stories from your own childhood with her. You have quite a bit in common, honestly. Both your fathers left in rather unsavory ways. You're also fiercely independent, and go above and beyond for your friends and family. Not to mention your intelligence, emotional and logical, is unmatched by most. This time of bonding eases some of your inner turmoil, letting you put the guilt aside for a little while.

"Well, that's all for today. You both did really well on your first day. I'll see you tomorrow." You dismiss Max and Marcus for the day, before heading toward the breakroom to get ready to leave. You change out of your uniform, and head outside to your bicycle. Except, it's not locked to the bike rack you left it at this morning. Your lock is here, but it appears someone has cut it and stolen your bicycle. "Fuck!" You shout, kicking the loose gravel in the lot where the rack is located. Today of all days, and your fucking bike is gone.

You stand in anger for a moment, clenching your fists and breathing heavily as you contemplate what to do. You could walk all the way to the trailer park, but it's way too hot out for that. You could try to call for a ride from someone, but there's no guarantee. But then you remember, you just so happen to be in pretty well with the employees at Family Video. Dustin's shift is definitely over, but Robin and Steve could be around. You leave the scene of the crime, and hoof it over a couple blocks to reach the video store.

"Hey, Y/N. Everything alright?" Robin asks as you walk in the glass door of the shop.

"Nope. I just had a very long day after a very long night. Dustin's got the car, and my bike got stolen. Can you or Steve give me a ride to Eddie's?" You speak flatly, trying very hard to keep your anger inside.

"Shit, Y/N. I'm sorry, I'll give you a ride. Cover the store for me, Stevie?" Robin replies, giving Steve major puppy eyes from behind the counter.

"Yeah, that's fine. I've got it covered." Steve adds, giving you a sympathetic look. You nod at him, and go with Robin to her car in the lot.

"Is Eddie okay? Why isn't he with you?" Robin questions as you slide into the passenger seat. You really don't want to tell another person about what's been going on. At this rate, everyone in your group will know before Eddie has the chance to tell them himself. You swear Robin to secrecy as you did the others, and recount the tale for the fourth time. She offers her condolences, which you in turn thank her for. You really hope Eddie won't be upset when you let him know just how many people you've told this to. You're not even sure he'd be upset at all, but you're going to find out, one way or another.

Robin pulls up to the trailer, where Eddie is sitting on the stoop having a smoke. He looks like shit. His hair is messy, and he's still in the same clothes from yesterday. A large bruise covers his nose, a mix of deep purple and sickly yellow. "Thanks for the ride, Robin. And for listening. I'll see you around." You say kindly to her, and she gives you a warm hug before you leave the vehicle. She waves as she pulls away, and you wave back with a forced smile. Once she's out of view, you turn to Eddie, who's staring at the ground. "Eddie, are you okay?" You ask, which draws his pale face to look up at you.

"No." He shakes his head, taking a drag from his cig. His hand trembles as he brings it to his lips, and his eyes are bloodshot.

"Did you sleep like I asked you to?" You question. You're about to sit down on the step next to him, when you notice a small cardboard box beside him.

"I was about to, when some delivery guy showed up. With...that." He points a finger at the box, refusing to look at it.

"What is it?" You ask, looking over it. He hasn't opened it yet, and the address label is from the prison. You also notice a stamp on the side of the box. It's marked in thick, red ink. Big block letters that read: HUMAN REMAINS. "Oh." The word falls softly from your lips when you realize what, or who, is in the box.

"Yeah. 'Oh'." Eddie scoffs, taking another drag.

"Did Wayne see it?" You ask, still standing above him. You don't have the heart to move the box out of the way to sit next to him. You're also quite unsure how he might react to you touching it.

"Fuck no. And he's not going to, not yet. I dunno what that'll do to him." Eddie says blankly, staring off into space again. There's something off about him, and it's more than just exhaustion. It's like he's on something.

"Eddie, are you high right now?" You regret the question immediately, and his eyes flick to you again.

"Is that a problem?" He asks, somewhat grumpily.

"No, Eds. I just一...I noticed you're acting a bit off. I know the last twenty-four hours haven't been easy. But I have to know, did you take something?" You speak as nicely as you can, you sense he's very irritable and quick to anger right now. You don't blame him one bit, you just want to make sure he won't hurt himself.

"I might have." He says, barely above a whisper. He avoids your gaze again, seemingly ashamed.

"Eddie, it's okay. What was it?" You kneel in front of him, taking hold of his free hand. It's shaky, and clammy, slicked with anxious sweat. But you hold it all the same.

"Just a little coke. I...didn't want to fall asleep." He says, flicking his spent cigarette away.

"Okay. That's all I wanted to know, love." You say sweetly, pressing a kiss to his forehead. "Is there anything I can do, Eds?"

"Can you bring the box inside? I don't want to touch it." He replies fearfully, his breath catching again.

"Of course. Let's go inside, hm? We can check on Wayne, and put you to bed for a bit." He nods at your suggestions, slowly standing up from his spot. He can't remember how long he's been out here, or if he's checked on his uncle enough today. The cocaine, along with his delirium, has left him confused. He feels dizzy once he's on his own two feet, but you thankfully sling his arm over your shoulder to help hold him up. "Did you eat today?" You ask. You hate how you're essentially interrogating him, but he obviously hasn't been taking care of himself. You need all the information you can glean in order to help him.

"No. Not hungry." He mumbles as you walk in the door. You keep the box tucked under your arm, concealing it from Wayne's view as you walk past the living room. The man is blankly looking at the TV, paying you no mind. The sedative has definitely worn off by now, but you sense Wayne feels somewhat guilty for scaring you all, and for hurting Eddie.

"I'll make you something, okay? You need to eat." You retort, leading Eddie all the way to his bedroom. You sit him down on the edge of the mattress, putting the box on his dresser.

"I'm fine, Y/N. Don't worry about it." He insists, but you'll have none of it. You're getting a bit annoyed with him now. He deliberately stayed awake this whole time, even going so far as to take drugs to do so, and he refuses to eat or even change clothes. You feel for him, you really do, but you can't let this go on. He'll end up killing himself if he keeps it up. You groan in frustration, before whipping around to face him.

"No, you're not, Eddie!" You shout, making him flinch. "You're exhausted, and starving, and high out of your goddamn mind!" His eyes widen at your words, and you can tell he's ready to fight you on this. You shake your head, signaling for him to just shut up and listen. You cross your arms and stand your ground, and he yields. He knows better than to go against someone as stubborn as you. "I get that what happened last night was scary, alright? And I get that Wayne hitting you in the face probably fucked with your head a little bit. But you can't sit here and tell me that you're fine! You're going to make yourself sick, or worse! And because I love you, I'm not letting you do that! Do you understand me?"

He doesn't say anything at first, still in shock at you yelling at him like this. But he knows you're right. He's going off the deep end, and his actions will only end up hurting him, and you, and Wayne. "I understand. I'm sorry." Eddie speaks in a remorseful tone, bowing his head. You go to him, sitting on the bed. You take hold of his chin, leading him to look at you. You find tears in his eyes again, and the hopeless expression on his face breaks your heart.

"I love you, Eddie. You know that, right?" You say softly, your own eyes beginning to water now.

"I know. I love you too, Y/N." He nods, sending tears rolling down his cheeks.

"Okay, good. Because I'm just trying to help you. You mean everything to me. And you need to eat, sleep, and clean yourself. I can't let you hurt yourself like this." You speak emphatically, trying not to break into sobs all the while. You can't bear to see him so miserable, he deserves a goddamn break in life. For once.

"I'm sorry for being stupid. I'm just so scared, for Wayne. I don't want him to have another flashback. I don't want him to hurt anyone else, or himself. I don't know what to do. I'm so tired, and I feel sick. I feel like I'm going crazy." He breaks down, shoving himself into your chest as he cries. You hold him tightly to you, releasing some sobs of your own, though they're much quieter than his.

"It's gonna be okay, Eds. We'll get through it together." You speak shakily, struggling to keep the syllables intact. You let him cry into you for a while, allowing his tears to eventually dry up. You stroke his hair, and press kisses to the top of his head.

When he calms down a little, you lay him down on the bed. You leave the room for a moment, wiping your eyes as you walk down the hall. You check in on Wayne, giving him his pill for the day as he hasn't had it just yet. He seems to be doing alright for the time being, but you plan to sit out here with him once Eddie goes to sleep. You figure you can take a shift to watch over him, Eddie's done more than enough for his uncle today. You bring Eddie a sandwich and some juice, which he begrudgingly consumes. Once he's finished, you help him take off his clothes. You put him under the covers, giving him one more kiss before he drifts off. He starts to snore almost immediately, and you quietly leave the room to let him rest.

"Is he finally asleep?" Wayne asks when you sit down on the couch.

"Yep. He's still a fuckin' mess, though. I've never seen him like this before. Not even when I've gotten hurt." You reply in resignation, digging your smokes out of your backpack. You slip on between your lips, lighting it hastily. You need this nicotine so damn bad right now, after everything you've gone through today.

"I know. I kept tellin' him to get some shut-eye. But he was too worried 'bout me." Wayne sighs. "How are you doin', darlin'?" He turns the question onto you, curious how you're handling this.

"I'm not much better. We were all really worried last night, we still are. And then I had to work all day while thinking about him, and you. And my bike got stolen sometime during my shift." You reply, exhaling a large cloud of smoke.

"I'm sorry, Y/N." He says.

"What for?" You question.

"For scarin' all of ya. And for hurtin' Eddie." His words lace themselves with sadness at the end of his sentence. "You know, I never raised a hand to that boy s'long as I've raised 'im." He shakes his head, before continuing. "Not once. Not when he misbehaved, not when he pissed me off, not as a punishment. Never. I promised myself I wouldn't add to the pain my brother inflicted on 'im." Wayne sniffles, taking a swig of his soda. It's odd to see him without a beer in his hand, but you're guessing the meds won't react well to alcohol. "But last night, I...I hurt 'im. I think that's why he's so fucked up right now. I hurt my boy, when I swore I never would." He inhales sharply, trying to hold himself together.

"Wayne, it wasn't your fault. You didn't know it was him. And he knows that, deep down he knows you would never hurt him. He loves you like a father, and he knows you love him like a son. Please don't blame yourself, because he sure as hell doesn't. None of us do." You move to sit closer to him, taking his hand.

"I know, Y/N. I just hate to see Eddie like this. I've made myself a burden on 'im now." He says guiltily.

"You aren't a burden, Wayne. You've done so much for him all these years. Taking him in, making sure he's happy and has everything he needs. He wants to have a turn now, to take care of you. And I'm going to help, and I'm sure I'm not the only one." You say sweetly, hoping he understands that needing help sometimes is okay. That's what family is for, those are the people you lean on when times get tough.

"Thank you, Y/N. I 'preciate that. I won't take your help for granted." Wayne smiles at you, grateful for your kind words.

"Oh, you could never do that, Wayne. You're family, and no request is too much when it comes from family." You smile back at him, hoping this moment of comfort is a sign that things will start looking up.

To be continued...

[whimsicalcotton]

I'm gonna be honest I just love the way you write amberpricefield so much. I've never even played the game. I love them so much. If you're still taking requests please pick your favorite.

skdfjsdhk thank you anon 🥺🥺🥺

thank u also for the free reign! here is some incredibly stupid Everybody's (Actually) Fine AU nonsense for u <3

--- --- ---

50: Nicknames/Pet Names

There’s a list of things other than “Max,” that Rachel and Chloe call her that probably runs a mile long. 

Chloe likes to stretch her name into a wide variety of different shapes — some more ridiculous than others — and though there apparently exists some method to her madness no one else seems to know quite what it is. Mad Max, Maximilian, Maximum Turbo-Force Dork. Max could fill up a whole notebook with just those, let alone the pet-names. Chloe was once solely an ironic user of the word babe, so Max has been told, but she’s long since fallen into the trap of habit and now throws it around far more casually than Max can handle. 

Rachel has also grown fond of playing around with Max’s name, but she leans more towards the terms of endearment. Max has lost count of the amount of times she’s gone all red in the face after being called honey or love or darling. There was even that one time Rachel had the audacity to call her babygirl in the middle of the dorm hallways, which made her fluster so hard she’d immediately started babbling some lame excuse about the time before literally running all the way back to her room. 

All this is to say: Max has been thinking it’s time for some payback.

So with devious plots in mind from the moment she gets up — perhaps Rachel is starting to rub off on her a bit — Max makes it her day's mission to give the two of them a taste of their own medicine. 

She catches Rachel first. Lingering in the dorm halls, fittingly enough, knee deep in yet another unnecessarily tense looking party planning conversation with Victoria. Of course, Victoria is often the only one who suffers in a conversation with Rachel, so when she turns to see Max approaching her expression shifts easily into one of earnest excitement.

“Morning, Max,” she greets, apparently feeling generous in her sparing Max from having to get flustered in front of Victoria. Her mistake. 

Max takes a final little breath for courage, and goes for the metaphorical kill. “Good morning, sweetheart. Am I seeing you for lunch today?”

She tries not to smile so hard watching Rachel’s cheeks turn red.

“Y-Yeah,” Rachel answers, looking momentarily horrified by her stammering before straightening up. “Yeah, sure, lunch. I’m there. See you then.”

As Max is taking her leave, hardly capable of stopping herself from skipping the whole way, she overhears their chatter resume. 

“Bitch, didn’t you literally just tell me we were gonna go over this shit again at lunch?” Victoria snaps, incredulous. “Oh my god, you’re down bad. That was pathetic. Well played, Amber, truly.”

“Shut the hell up, Chase,” Rachel hisses back. “Tell anyone what just happened and you’ll be on your own supplying party booze for the rest of the year.”

Max gets Chloe later on, during the aforementioned lunch hangout that Rachel is apparently snubbing Victoria to be present for. 

She’s in the midst of chowing down on some of the sweets Max brought along, getting bread crumbs and icing sugar all over herself in the process. By the time she’s done, there are patches of powdery white and a hint of jelly still adorning her face. Rachel tries to hide a bout of snorting giggles upon looking at her.

“Jesus, you’d think we never feed you,” she says, still covering her mouth with one hand and handing Chloe a napkin with the other. 

“Yeah,” Max agrees, taking the napkin in Chloe’s stead and reaching up to wipe off her face. “You’re making such a mess of yourself, baby.”

Chloe’s eyes go wide as saucers as she squeaks out an astoundingly unsure, “I sure am.” She lets Max finish cleaning her off before seemingly coming to her senses and going even redder than Rachel had earlier. 

Speaking of, Rachel’s gone a little pink again herself. She looks over at Max with a gaze as hungry as it is curious. “Man, you’re out for blood today, aren’t you?” 

“Just having a bit of fun,” Max assures with a smile, watching on in unabashed satisfaction as Chloe devolves into a grumbling, mumbling mess hiding her face in her hands.

[bookshelf-in-progress]

Me: I would really like to begin writing these specific stories from my idea list.

Me, after like one day of serious brainstorming: What if instead you worked on every single other idea you've ever had?

[glittertimes]

I shouldn’t have to actively fight to not get addicted to things! Like why are things that are addictive so easily accessible to me!

[yeonban]

Soma is so interesting in the sense that... he's so tender and so indifferent at the same time. Out of the five grand generals he cares the least about Musashi and whether he lives or dies EVEN AFTER Musashi proves he's the Obsidian Goddess and Jisai's son (whereas Tatsuomi and Tsubasa, the other two coldest ones, both became close to Musashi bc of it) but he's also the one who'd be the most emotionally hurt if someone close to him were to get injured or killed (whereas Naotora saw Tatsuomi's blood pouring down a wall and heard he got killed but had no change in expression)

[zipquips]

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