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#callen owns my heart!
liar-or-lawyer · 1 year
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ejzah · 2 months
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A/N: This is based solely on the single episode of Hawaii I’ve watched this season and tidbits I’ve been told. I also add in my own details that are not canon at all. It’s my way.
***
Deeks: So, how are you settling into Hawaii?
Sam: Good. It’s starting to feel more normal, like I’m part of the team.
Deeks, with mock outrage: How dare you forget about us so quickly. Does the better part of two decades mean nothing to you.
Sam, laughing: Relax, Deeks. None of them will ever replace you and that crazy hair of yours.
Deeks: I always knew you loved my hair.
Sam, genuinely: Absence does make the heart grow fonder. I’ve been having fun messing with them. Some of these kids are just too damn easy. They believe everything. Kensi might have been a little green at first, but she stood up pretty well to me and Callen, and Eric was always surprisingly snarky when he wanted to be. And you. I knocked you out flat and you turned right around to have me arrested. Annoyed the hell out of me then, but I miss that too.
Deeks: That’s surprisingly sweet. We miss you too. How exactly do you mess with these guys.
Sam, smiling again: I convinced one kid he had to train with me. Even made him juice.
Deeks: Ooh, please tell me it was nasty.
Sam, happily: The worst I’ve ever made. And you’ll love this. I used your version of rock, paper, scissors to score some sweet tickets and a bottle of not too shabby bourbon.
Deeks: West Coast Rules for the win! Though that is a little harsh.
Sam: Hey, they have to learn.
Deeks: And the bottle of whiskey doesn’t hurt.
Sam: Exactly.
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rubyarrows · 7 months
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Finding Solace
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I never imagined that a simple phone call could make my heart race faster than any high-speed chase. It was just another day at work, until my phone buzzed with YN's name flashing on the screen. Panic immediately set in as I answered, my voice laced with concern.
"YNN? What's wrong?" I asked, my mind already conjuring up worst-case scenarios.
Her voice trembled as she spoke, struggling to form coherent words. "Marty, I-I'm having an anxiety attack. I can't breathe, and everything feels so overwhelming."
My heart sank, and all I could think about was getting home to her. YN had become my beacon of light, my safe haven in this unpredictable world. Without a moment's hesitation, I assured her, "Stay on the line, babe. I'm coming home right now."
Every second felt like an eternity as I raced through the busy streets, my mind clouded with worry. The sight of our house came into view, and I rushed inside, calling out her name. Panic gripped me when all I heard was silence.
I found her in the middle of the kitchen floor, her body trembling uncontrollably. Her eyes were filled with fear, and my heart ached at the sight. Kneeling down beside her, I gently took her trembling hands in mine, my touch grounding her in reality.
"Hey, YNN," I whispered softly, my voice filled with reassurance. "I'm here now. You're not alone."
Her eyes locked with mine, desperately searching for comfort. In that moment, I realized the immense weight of responsibility that rested upon my shoulders. I had to be her anchor, her rock when life's storm threatened to engulf her.
"Hear my heart?" I asked, my voice steady yet filled with unwavering affection. "Just focus on that. Let the rhythm of my heartbeat guide you back to calm."
With each beat, I hoped to drown out the chaos that plagued her mind. I held her close, enveloping her in a protective embrace, and slowly her breathing began to steady. Her body relaxed against mine, and I could feel the tension dissipating.
Time seemed to stand still as we sat there, connected by an unspoken bond. In that moment of vulnerability, we found solace in each other's arms. Love had a way of healing even the deepest wounds, and I vowed to always be there for her, to be her guiding light through the darkest of nights.
As her trembling subsided and her breathing returned to normal, YN looked up at me with gratitude shining in her eyes. "Thank you, Marty," she whispered, her voice filled with sincerity. "You always know how to calm the storm within me."
I brushed a gentle kiss against her forehead, my heart overflowing with love. "I'll always be here for you, YN. Through thick and thin, no matter what. Together, we can weather any storm."
As we sat there, lost in our own world of solace, the sound of approaching sirens shattered the tranquility. Startled, YN and I looked at each other, realizing that we were no longer alone. I gently squeezed her hand, silently assuring her that everything would be okay.
Within moments, the front door burst open, revealing the concerned faces of my teammates, Callen, Sam, and Kensi. Their eyes darted between YN and me, their expressions a mixture of relief and curiosity.
"What happened, Deeks? Why did you rush out of here like the building was on fire?" Callen asked, his voice laced with worry.
Sam's stern gaze softened as he took in the scene before him. "Is YN okay?" he asked, concern etched in his voice.
Kensi, ever the intuitive one, observed the aftermath of YN's anxiety attack and offered a comforting smile. "Hey, YNN. Are you feeling better now?"
YN nodded weakly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Thank you all for coming. I... I just needed Marty."
Understanding crossed their faces as they exchanged glances, realizing the depth of our connection. They knew how much YN meant to me and how fiercely I would protect her. Without a word, they closed ranks around us, forming a united front of support.
Callen placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder. "Deeks, we're a team, on and off the field. We're here for you, always."
Sam nodded, his voice filled with unwavering loyalty. "We've got your back, brother. Whatever you and YN need, just say the word."
Kensi's eyes sparkled with compassion as she spoke. "YN, you're part of our family now. We're here to support you just as much as we're here for Marty."
A wave of gratitude washed over me, knowing that I had the unwavering support of my teammates, my family. In that moment, I realized that no matter what challenges we faced, we would face them together.
YN's grip on my hand tightened, and a small smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "Thank you, all of you. Your presence means more than words can express."
As we sat together, the weight of the world seemed to lift from our shoulders. We were surrounded by a circle of trust, a haven where vulnerability was met with understanding and love. In the midst of chaos, we found strength in each other, our bonds forged through shared experiences and unwavering loyalty.
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katsigian · 1 year
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WIP WHENEVER
Tagged by @trashkingnyx thank youuuu
I'm perpetually working on things because I pick up 100 million projects when I'm inspired and then lose said inspiration but then the stubbornness kicks in so then I gotta finish them or else I feel guilty. Hope that helps <3
1. COMPLEXIONS
Who saw this coming, because I surely didn't. It's not like complexion mods are the only thing I know how to make well.
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The frankly unsettling flattened skin texture, or diffuse, on the left are tattoos I'm making for my woof boy, Noel. There are many different pieces because there's a billion seams I have to account for to make a sleeve that covers from shoulder to fingers without gaps. And it destroys my brain. The handsome lad on the right is my baby Vesper and those are his custom tattoos I made that need to be fixed up a little bit. Because there's flaws only my eyes can see <3
2. PROPS
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Ya boy is also venturing into propmaking. Less venturing and more throwing myself in the deep end because I physically can't learn anything normally. ANYWAY I want a trillion neon signs at my beck and call for picture taking so I've been scouring in game assets and yoinking them out for my own use. They're functioning, but there's some stuff I gotta touch up yet.
3. LORE
Yes, yes, we've all heard about my lore. It's still an ongoing process and frankly kinda tiring. Here are some snippets:
"The Saint" - while the name conjures imagery of holy pureness, Valen is anything but. Though that is part of why he's called this; it's a play on words that reflect his true methods. Early on in his career, Valen gained his reputation for being effcient, aggressive, and having a high success rate. Some operators that worked beside him began sarcastically calling him the Saint after seeing his typically ruthless and effective methods of completing contracts. The name stuck, even as Valen didn't embody saintly tendencies by any stretch yet. Although, that was part of the joke - a saint would never be as violent as Valen is, so how hilarious would it be if that's what he's called? It could be argued he was a saint of sorts for his clients, coming in and washing away their problems. Beginning around 2074, the name had another meaning attached to it - Valen would often willingly accept a pay cut to take those contracts that clients couldn't afford. These were usually non-corporate aligned persons who did not have the dollars at hand for the services offered by Ares Systems. Valen, apparently a bleeding heart at times, would take the contracts anyway and complete them. "The Saint" stuck even further after this.
Vesper's Lore - Around 10 months after running from Dario, Vesper found Valen. He'd been searching for him specifically, but Valen's not easy to find; he eventually approached him outside of Valen's work facility and Valen, of course, was shocked. He'd never known about Callen's other children, even though he'd always felt *something*. Unknowingly connected to Vesper from their shared father/sire. Over the next 6 months, they slowly grew closer, getting to know each other. They were both a little too similar to their father though, Vesper's brash nature inherited from Callen meaning he often called out Valen's own similarities to their father. To Valen's extreme dismay. Even though they tend to grate on each other's nerves, they do learn from each other and lean on one another often. Valen can't live without him now, nor can Vesper without him. When Vesper was 23, Dario found him again. He'd stopped being careful and accidentally let himself be found. Terrified, he was forced to tell Valen about that part of his past. Valen, in typical fashion, took it upon himself to make sure Dario could never find Vesper again. To this day, Vesper still doesn't know what Valen did with the body, and he'll never tell him.
And that's that <3 I'm going to tag some pals BUT there's NO pressure to share if you don't want to. If you do want to share, it could be anything; art, writing, mods, etc.
@rindemption @noirapocalypto @spicyraeman @nuclearstorms @aartyom @uldwynsovs @halsin @nokstella @reaperkiller @arcandoria @cybersmallz @itzsassha @pathfinderlittleduck @strafethesesinners @thefrostyshepard @noonfaerie @neon-prison @elvenbeard @aldcaldos @holofishes @fleetwoodmoth @breezypunk @hertzdo
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orionares · 2 years
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Ambulance Ride, Part 3
Part 1 is here
Part 2 is here
----------------
Date of Incident: 6/18/1990
Arresting Officer: Sergeant II Katrina Melendez, Echo Park , Badge number #3927
Description of Incident 
-Officers were dispatched to a home at 9:17p.m after a phone call was received from a child (11 years), claiming to shoot father in self-defense of mother. Upon arrival, myself and Officer Chaplin found the child on the curb, crying and covered with blood. Weapon was recovered on the kitchen table next to Brandel, who was found bleeding from a gunshot wound to the upper right shoulder. 
—------
Deeks is trembling when Callen finishes reading the first paragraph of the police report. 
He had prepared himself mentally for the language of the report as he's produced a hundred or so of his own domestic violence police reports; however,  hearing the language applied to him?
Knowing that 'the child on the curb, crying and covered with blood' is him? Damn near suffocating.
"I called 911," Deeks croaks. He's partly confirming the detail, partly searching his memories of holding the orange cord phone in his small hands and dialing 911.
Nothing comes.
"Yes," Callen confirms softly. The tone in the lead agent's voice is gentle, almost like a big brother taking care of a younger brother. "You were on the line for two minutes or so before-"
"-Leaving the gun on the table and leaving my mom alone," Deeks murmurs. He expects the same argument he's heard from Kensi, the psychologist and his mother. 
You were just a kid. 
Callen instead pushes past the comment and continues to read the next paragraph of the report:
-The child was evaluated by Fire & Rescue Paramedic Tomas Monroe before-
“Tomas?” Deeks interrupts. His eyes flicker left and right as he searches through the recovered memories of being in the ambulance. The man he remembers sitting across from him and attending to his mother is burly and squared jaw with a mustache that reminds him of Burt Reynolds. 
“Deeks?”
The Investigator holds up a finger and tries to put together his jumbled thoughts. “ I think I remember…Tomas…” he explains slowly, “...in the ambulance. He was nice, I think.”
Callen nods slowly and pulls his cellphone out of his back pocket. “I can have Fatima look up both where Melendez and Monroe are if you want. There’s no pressure to do so.” 
“I- I don’t-” Deeks shrugs and runs a hand over his face. “Keep going with the case report.”
Callen opens the file and hands a photo that had been clipped to the second page. The photo is a five inch by seven inch photo, weathered from being 32 years old. Deeks feels his heart flutter at the recognition of his own blue eyes, his grey Mickey Mouse tee shirt spattered with blood and old denim shorts that had been donated from a neighbor. 
“I look terrified,” Deeks mutters. He’s seen the same look in every child he’s rescued, both in NCIS and LAPD. He runs a thumb over the edge of the photo and shakes his head, “I was by myself?”
Callen flips a page and  reads the third paragraph of the report. “The paramedic rode with you to the hospital and then Melendez took over during getting your statement and waiting for a foster care placement,” he summarizes. 
The Investigator’s afraid to hear the answer to his next question. “How bad of a shape was my mom?” 
Callen turns two pages of the file and shakes his head. "No. I'm not going to tell you the details so you can beat yourself up." 
He's beyond that- Deeks is miles beyond beating himself up. He's drowning in self-hatred, guilt, confusion and so many other emotions that he can’t even name. He’s analyzing, punishing himself for not coming to Ray sooner for a gun, not calling the police daily or even trying to convince her to run away like he’d dream many times during their arguments. He doesn’t realize that tears are forming in his eyes until Callen squeezes his shoulder. 
“Deeks, it’s ok,” Callen states, “You are going to be ok, whatever that guilty conscience is telling you. Your mother is happy, healthy and safe from Brandel and you- “ he nudges Deeks with a shoulder, “-are a survivor.”
“I don’t feel like it,” Deeks whispers, his voice quivering. He drops his head between his knees and begins to sob. The tears begin to fall when he feels Callen’s arms wrap around his shoulders. 
It’s everything he needs in the moment and the brotherly love from the Callen’s he’s always wanted.
—-------
“Fatima, I need a favor.”
Via video chat, Kensi watches Fatima’s expression shift from worry to confusion at the request. Kensi slides onto the stool at the kitchen island and glances for the tenth time or so to the patio window. She’s been monitoring Deeks since he had walked in the door twenty minutes prior and walked straight to the back patio steps without a word. 
A quiet Deeks, especially a somber, quiet Deeks breaks her heart.
“What do you need?” Fatima asks. “I heard that Deeks’ session with the psychologist didn’t end well-”
“You could say that.” Kensi recalls the warning text from Callen of how the talk on the beach had gone. “I need you to look up Laura and Richard Cooper and email everything you can about them. I need to know if…they're alive and if they still live in the area.”
"Alright….give me one second," Fatima replies. She taps furiously on her tablet and then reads, "Laura and Richard Cooper…..Laura Cooper died from an aneurysm in 1993 while Richard is still in the area. Do you want an address?”
Do I?  Kensi sees Deeks scratch the back of his head and then brush away his bangs. Even from afar, she knows the signs of defeat in Deeks. Depends on who exactly Laura and Richard Cooper were to him. 
-------
Part 4 coming soon
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lovealexhunt · 2 years
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2022: ☆ January ☆ February ☆ March ☆ April ☆ May ☆
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Thomas Hunt x Alex Spencer [HollywoodU]  [Red Carpet Diaries]
Smile: Alex decides that Thomas should smile for the press every once in a while.
The Bogart Diaries #32: Just a Baby: Alex updates Bogart’s Picta stories!
Bryce Lahela x Olivia Hadley[Open Heart]
No Patient Too Small: Olivia runs into an unusual patient request, but knows just the surgeon to help. Based on this prompt ask.
Mal Volari x Daenarya[Blades of Light and Shadow]
For Warmth: Daenarya is cold and is more than happy to take advantage of Mal’s natural warmth. This is part of my “a Hand to Hold” series.
A Little Game: Daenarya and Mal are playing a little game of their own when their boys ask to join in. [+ Lydo and Rayden]
Troy Hassan x Astraea Callen [Wake the Dead]
Lazy Afternoon:Troy and Astraea enjoy a quiet moment in the sun. (Chapter 6)
Commissions, sketches, and edits below the cut
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Thomas and Alex hand kiss commission by @/hrhschreave on Instagram 
Thomas and Alex face touching by  @softfairies
Troy Hassan x Astraea Cheebs by @weetlebeetle
Ethan and Ellie Cheebs by @weetlebeetle
MerMay: Mermaid!Olivia x Bryce in Hawaii by @/artbyainna (IG)
Bryce and Olivia sketches by  @rosefuckinggenius 
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Troy Hassan Chibi sketch
Teen!Bryce x Kid!Keiki sketch
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Thomas Hunt painted edits
Thomas and Alex magazine Met Gala edits
Thomas and Alex Mother's Day moodboard
Troy Hassan bathing suit CG edit
Bryce Lahela painted edits
Ethan Ramsey painted edits
Six Sentence Sunday
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friendshipcampaign · 1 month
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Session Recap 1/4/20 - Bird Murder, or Burder
Together, the party succeeded at deciphering the message that had been left with Amaranth’s things in the chest – correctly deducing out that the key it had been encoded with read “NOWHERE” – to find that it read:
My Dearest Callen, 
Technically these little trinkets are a bonus—you didn’t ask, but surely you deserve some sort of interest on an investment that’s been missing for so long. D has recorded their value and will be sending along a full report. I intend to receive a signature from your representative upon delivery as proof I’ve upheld my end of our little arrangement. For your own part, do have fun with your new toy. She did lose one of her companions in the altercation—that pathetic little elf. I could have made her remember losing more, but I wouldn’t want to deprive you of the satisfaction of breaking her yourself. 
Now, as agreed, I expect you to stay out of Veritas unless called upon. This is a delicate operation, and if your interference throws off the balance I am sure that neither of our patrons will look kindly upon it. You can resume your search for flotsam once everything is securely under control. It shouldn’t be long now. The demons are hardly bothering to hide, and the city is desperate for a savior. 
Cordially, 
The Lady of the Golden Brand
Amaranth, in particular, looked extremely nauseous at the text of the letter, but still managed to point out that there was a watermark of a white hart on the paper, suggesting the cult might be active at the White Hart paper mill. The group also discussed the fact that, according to the papers Thodri had given Kriv, there was an Elderberry Deckle at the Cavern paper mill who’d put an ad in the versos about looking for a tiefling named Dandelion Deckle.
Ditto asked Tiktik if they would be up for any spying that day, and when they agreed, transformed them into a beetle, so they’d be ready to snoop. The group discussed whether it made sense to deal with the devil cultists or the breaches being opened by the demonic cultists first—though the fact that Esmerelda’s letter made it sound like the former weren’t too concerned with the latter seemed potentially even more ominous than the breaches did. They also talked about the fact that it seemed like Tress was being kept at one of the paper mills, and agreed it probably made sense to investigate them. As the group prepared to head out, Palava called Erwyn over and cast Death Ward on him.
“Just a little extra protection,” he said, squeezing his shoulder.
Alembic suggested sneaking the party out of the city in the demiplane, which meant when everyone headed inside, they saw the sculptures of Volfred that Amaranth and Nora had made, which Kriv shrank down to a more manageable size and moved after heading over to his goat.
“What do you think of the images of me they have created?” Volfred asked him.
“That one is pretty good,” Kriv said, pointing to the one Nora had been working on.
“Yes, the dwarf has more patience for these things than your tiefling friend.”
When Ditto referred to Kriv by his alias, Volfred asked about it and Kriv explained the party was on the run, but did not elaborate on everything that had happened since. With the party waiting for a bit in the demiplane, Kriv did take the opportunity to look at the mail that he’d recieved
Voski, meanwhile, consolidated some of the skull lamps Tenny had made into a chandelier.
Eventually, the demiplane door opened up and Palava waved enthusiastically at the party to let them know they’d gotten outside of town successfully. On their way to the Cavern papermill, Ditto sent Tiktik to spy on the White Heart, but they really only saw workers hanging up sheets of paper in the mill. The group knocked on the door to the Cavern and were greeted by an elderly halfling who introduced himself as Elderberry. When Voski mentioned they were there because of his ad in the versos, his demeanor changed, asking if they knew anything about “DeeDee,” and the group asked if they could speak with him in his office.
Voski explained to Elderberry that the party was in a somewhat similar situation, searching for a friend of a friend who was also a tiefling that had gone missing. Elderberry explained that DeeDee had gone missing on Blomhath 18th, nearly a week ago. He said it felt as though the watch had just stopped trying to follow up with missing persons reports. It was also explained that he’d adopted Dandelion, whose parents hadn’t been expecting a tiefling. 
After Voski asked if Elderberry had a working relationship with any moembers of the watch, and he explained that some of his employees had minor infractions in the past, which meant the city watch occasionally bothered them. Around that time, a goblin Elderberry referred to as Zero briefly interrupted the group to ask if everything was alright. When Voski asked about the mercenaries working in town, Elderberry admitted he didn’t have a very high opinion of them, but there was no curfew out by the mills. Kriv asked if anyone unusual had come into the mill prior to Dandelion’s disappearance. He said there wasn’t anyone he could think of, but that the other mills got more unusual clientele.
Suddenly, Ditto, who had been oddly quiet for much of the conversation, asked if she could have a look around the paper mill because she’d never been in one before. Elderberry agreed, but as she was zooming out the door of the office and into the mill, Erwyn Messaged her to ask if everything was alright.
“I think… that goblin…” she said, “I think that Tiktik knew them… bye!”
The others continued their conversation with Elderberry. Erwyn asked about some of the individuals that had been coming and going from the other paper mills, and Elderberry mentioned that the White Hart in particular had been so busy that Vatman, the proprietor, cancelled the papermaker’s subset of the stationer’s meeting for the first time ever last month. He also mentioned that there was a distinguished-looking fire genasi who’d been putting orders in there.
Ditto succeeded in finding Zero chatting with a big bugbear, and told them that she’d been together with Tiktik the goblin a long time ago. Zero immediately asked if she was Ditto, and suggested they duck into the rag-sorting room to talk. They told Ditto that Tiktik told a lot of stories about her, though they suspected that not all of them were all the way true – things like her tying guards shoelaces together, Goz the Great, how when she met Tiktik she shot fire at a guy and they had to flee. It turned out that Zero knew about the package Tiktik had left with Knife.
“Knife was sure you’d come back, but I didn’t know,” Zero said. “I kind of thought you’d just be a weird story.”
“Well I guess all of us are weird stories eventually, right?” said Ditto.
Zero told Ditto that Tiktik had been her adopted aunt. Apparently Zero and Brenga, the bugbear they’d been talking to, had come into town together and Tiktik had taken them under her wing. They told Ditto that Tiktik had talked about her a lot, but especially towards the end, and commented that a cuna wasn’t finished until the person it was intended for got it. Ditto told them it made her feel sosoceni – a goblin word she’d learned from Tiktik, though she and Zero both laughed at how she still struggled to pronounce it. She asked it it would be weird if she gave them a hug, but Zero said it was alright – though after giving them a tight squeeze, Ditto warned them that she and her friends were looking into some stuff and Veritas was really dangerous right now. She also told them about how she could cast Sendings, and that she’d try to warn them of any danger if she could.
“It’s magic. It’s like wizard shit. I can do so much wizard shit now, it’s crazy. I don’t know how to deal with it,” said Ditto.
Ditto then rejoined the rest of the party, who were preparing to leave. Once they were outside, Amaranth and Palava asked Ditto if she’d seen anything interesting, and she explained about the connection between Zero and Tiktik. She emotionally said she hoped everything turned out okay for everyone at the Cavern, because she was really fond of them all now. Kriv patted her as she explained.
As the group approached the other paper mills, Ditto sent her familiar Tiktik to snoop on the White Hart paper mill again, through whose eyes she noticed that the workers in the mill seemed to be working a little suspiciously in unison. Through a door, she also saw a white tabaxi with a black mark over their eye, who looked like the one the group had seen during the fight at Inner Truths—though they weren’t sure if he was the original or a duplicate. 
Erwyn offered to try detecting fiends in the area, and the group settled down among some trees so he could focus. He picked up on something that looked like a raven on the roof of one of the paper mills, but that actually pinged as a devil. As his awareness spread and hit the city walls, he felt a building wave of demonic presence that hurt his head and eventually grew overwhelming.
The group discussed options for distracting or sneaking past the “raven,” deciding they should probably take it out before they headed into the mill. Since it seemed worth looking for ways to sneak in the building before engaging it, everyone did some investigation, but came up empty—though Kriv did manage to find some nice medicinal herbs in the process. Tiktik’s investigation at least turned up a door leading to the lower part of the mill, but with no windows looking in.
Amaranth hid some of the foliage nearby in order to get the element of surprise. Ditto linked to the Arcane Shuttle, in order to cast a distraction once it was placed, which she gave to Erwyn, who she then cast Invisibility on. He dropped it in an unassuming spot and hid himself in the foliage as well. Ditto cast a rustling sound through the shuttle, and the devil hopped off the roof and into the trees to investigate. 
Once the devil was in range, Amaranth, threw the ice dagger at it, utterly obliterating it. The party then sprang into action. Ditto cast Mage Armor on herself as the group rushed to the door of the paper mill. Palava slipped slightly on the way, and Kriv helped him up and along. There was a heavy lock on the door, which Amaranth was able to pick easily. Kriv cast Aid on Ditto, Erwyn, and Voski as the group headed inside.
It was dark inside the mill, prompting the dragonborn to don their scarf and goggles respectively. There was another locked door inside, which Amaranth proceeded to check for traps before unlocking it. She opened the door and snuck in, entering a room full of manacled humanoid shapes–including the tabaxi proprietor. She silenced him before he could cry out, saying they were here to rescue him.
As the others entered the room, Ditto recognized some of the other figures in the room as the employees of the paper mill. Erwyn and Voski noticed several piles of papermaking rags in the corners of the rooms which had some kind of spherical glassware underneath them that looked suspicious and potentially magical. Kriv used Divine Sense, but didn’t detect any fiends nearby. Amaranth went to attempt to unlock a set of manacles, but Voski, who had noticed something carved into their edges, gestured for her to wait. 
Voski asked if there was some kind of a spell on the manacles. Vatman, the proprietor, replied that there might be as “they” had a lot of magic, warning about oozes that could take you out of your mind. Palava knelt down to examine the manacles, then the glass vessels in the corners of the room, saying that they were linked–and the latter were triggered to explode if the manacles were tampered with. Kriv reassured some of the prisoners, asking them to stay quiet but promising they were going to get them all out. Palava put a hand on Vatman’s shoulder, making the same promise and casting Calm Emotions–though not before asking for permission, in case the prisoners had had enough of magical effects. 
Voski had wandered back into the first room, where she had noticed some strange discoloration near a ladder leaning against the wall. She tried sending a Message in Esmerelda’s voice down below, since it looked like there might be a trapdoor, saying “Tressamine, darling, how’s my favorite assistant?”–to no response. Ditto investigated the trapdoor area and noticed that there seemed to be a metal layer underneath it, with some sort of spell on it. Voski tried casting Dispel Magic on it, causing the spell to vanish. 
She tried sending the same Message, a little more irritably the second time, and heard back “Oh, I think we’re making very good progress.”
Voski informed the others Tress was down there, but might still be compromised. She tried messaging her in Esmerelda’s voice again, saying she was thinking about getting some food in town and asking if she wanted anything. Tress replied saying she liked the spicy dumplings at a particular stall. Voski then tried asking via another Message what the schedule was that day, and was told that Kereft was in, as usual–though Tress added that he was being unhelpful, as always.
“Kisses,” said Voski in Esmerelda’s voice, finishing the Messaging exchange.
“--W-what?” replied Tress.
After Voski let the others know Tress wasn’t alone, Kriv broke the trapdoor open to reveal a room with stacks of paper, and iron cage, and an oddly fancy chair, as well as a door to another room. Kriv tried Divine Sense again, and while it didn’t detect anything, he noticed an ooze flowing from beneath the bars of the cage. Quickly, he dropped the ladder down so the party could rush downstairs. 
Amaranth went after the ooze and successfully beat back the smaller ooze that had flowed through the cell with a powerful attack. Kriv went after it next, hitting it twice and casting Diving Smite on the second of his attacks, which allowed Erwyn to run past, maintaining his Invisibility. Voski cast Vicious Mockery on the smaller ooze, saying “Oh, you’re still here?” and it recoiled, at this point barely holding itself together. 
Kriv and Amaranth felt a tugging on their minds from the ooze, and while Kriv was able to fight it off, Amaranth ended up frozen in place, unable to move. Four tendrils separated themselves from the larger ooze and morphed into humanoid figures=–one of which took the form of Vatman-–that drew swords and screamed out incomprehensibly. Alembic then closed his eyes and focused on an aura that strengthened the minds of those standing near him. Ditto cast Magic Missile on the smaller ooze, which destroyed it, and then flew up towards the ceiling.
Palava remained up above, saying he didn’t want to leave the prisoners, but still was able to lean down and cast Sacred Flame on the larger, remaining ooze. Amaranth—who had regained the ability to move when Ditto destroyed the smaller ooze—tried rushing past the four gooplicates, meaning one got an attack in on her, but succeeded in attacking the larger ooze twice.
Kriv turned to Voski, “Do you want me to go get her now?”
“I think we’re beyond secrecy now,” she replied.
He ran to the door on the other side of the room, only to discover it was locked, so he busted it in physically. On the other side was a room filled with alchemical equipment, as well as as Tress and the fire genasi that Palette’s footage had shown in Inner Truths. Kriv attempted to position himself between Tress and the genasi, and as soon as he got close, there was a sudden shift in her eyes and she looked horrified. Furious, Kriv cast Wrathful Smite on his hammer. Erwyn followed Kriv into the other room and cast Ray of Frost at the genasi, causing his Invisibility to drop. He then asked Tress if she was okay.
“Physically,” she replied.
Voski attempted to whack one of the gooplicates near her with a sword, but failed. She then asked Ditto to give her the shuttle. Inside the other room, the genasi moved away from Kriv, who was at least able to smash him with his hammer, adding a Divine Smite for good measure. The genasi pulled something that looked like a tuning fork from his belt, and grabbed a flask with arcane markings on it that looked like the ones the group had seen upstairs.
“Put your weapons down,” the genasi said threateningly, “Or all the prisoners will die.”
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cathygeha · 9 months
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REVIEW
Second Chance Love in Point Perry by Joanne Speirs
Story of death, betrayal, lies, loved ones lost, and coming back from dark despair sees two people perfect for one another get their second chance at love and happiness. Great debut novel!
What I liked:
* Erin: grew up in Point Perry, made a life in Adelaide, dealing with grief from several losses, goes “home” to find a place for her mother’s ashes, begins to heal and falls in love with Tom, his son Carter, and their dog Woody
* Tom: Carter’s father, divorced, single parenting his son, lives close to his parents who help with Carter, teacher, athlete, has experienced losses, feels a connection with Erin and falls in love with her
* Carter: five years old, full of life, typical little boy, warm, caring, sensitive, really likes Erin
* Larry & Marge: Tom’s parents, own The Retreat, hard workers, caring, kind
* Friends in town: Curly, Justine, Lindy, and others
* The many twists and turns, surprises revealed, and impact the impact of each one
* The small-town vibes
* That all the negatives were explained and guilt, pain, angst, and secrets when exposed were able to be dealt with in a healthy manner
* The plot, pacing, setting, and conclusion
* All of it really, except…
What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about how selfish and mean hearted some people can be
Thank you to NetGalley and Escape Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
BLURB
Two broken hearts learning how to live - and love - again.
After a devastating tragedy shakes Erin's world, she returns to her hometown of Point Perry seeking solace and a fresh start. But just as she begins to find her footing, an unexpected visitor and an old enemy threaten to upend her life once again.
Tom, a devoted single father and beloved teacher, is no stranger to turmoil. His ex-wife, now a Hollywood starlet, has descended upon Point Perry for her movie premiere, stirring up trouble and putting Tom's priorities to the test. As the town buzzes with excitement over the event, Tom must also navigate a strained relationship with his father and protect his son from his ex's manipulations.
Despite their emotional scars and obstacles, Erin and Tom can't ignore their growing connection. As they begin to explore the chance for a future together, they must confront their past traumas and find a way to move forward. Will their love be enough to overcome the challenges they face, or will their emotional baggage prove too heavy to bear?
'A heart-warming and uplifting debut brimming with small town charm. Point Perry is a close-knit community that will instantly feel like home.' International bestselling author Alissa Callen
'Heartfelt and warm - just how I like my romance!' Australian author Tess Woods
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newsiesjathrine · 9 months
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Took a while but my masterlist is done there will be open requests for now while I work on some of my own ideas so here it is
Masterlist:
Nics
Faith
Grace
Kate
Gibbs
Abby
Ducky
Mcgee
Ziva
Jimmy
Jack
Kasie
Jessica
Jenny
Vance
Tony
Ellie
Nick
Reeves(Clayton)
Alex
Maddie
Kelly
Kayla
Emily
Johnny
morgan
Tobais
jackie
Ncis new orleans
Naomi
Dwyane
Laurel
Chris
Sonja
Meredith
Loretta
Sebastian
Patton
Tammy
Hannah
Quitnten
Connor
David
Jimmy
natilie
Ncis la
Chris O'Donnell
G. Callen
Main
Peter Cambor
Nate Getz
Main
Recurring
Guest
Recurring
Guest
Daniela Ruah
Kensi Blye
Main
Adam Jamal Craig
Dominic Vail
Main[a]
LL Cool J
Sam Hanna
Main
Linda Hunt
Hetty Lange
Main[b]
Guest
Barrett Foa
Eric Beale
Main[c]
Eric Christian Olsen
Marty Deeks
Guest
Main
Renée Felice Smith
Nell Jones
Main[d]
Guest
Miguel Ferrer
Owen Granger
Recurring
Main[e]
Nia Long
Shay Mosley
Main[f]
Medalion Rahimi
Fatima Namazi
Recurring
Main[g]
Caleb Castille
Devin Rountree
Recurring
Main
Gerald McRaney
Hollace Kilbride
Guest
Recurring
Guest
Recurring
Main
Ncis hawaii
Alex
Julie
Maggie
Carla
Jane
Daniel
Ernie
Kathrine Marie "Kate"
Jesse
Kai
Rizzoli and isles
casey
lyida
Jane
Maura(dn)
Angela
Vince
Barry
Susie
Nina
Frankie
Tommy
Tj
Sean cavangh
Constance
Hope
Calin
Womens murder club
Linsday
Claire
Cindy
Jill
Inspector Warren Jacobi (Tyrees Allen) – Lindsay's loyal partner. He was up for the lieutenant position that went to Tom, but has not expressed much disappointment that he didn't get the job, seeming to prefer field work to the politics of the higher position. He also seems to prefer the finer things in life, having an affinity for wine, 30-year-old whiskey, and opera. He is thrice-divorced and has a child from one of those marriages.
Lieutenant Tom Hogan (Rob Estes) – Lindsay's ex-husband, who in the first episode was promoted to lieutenant and assigned as her boss. He is engaged in the pilot and has remarried by "To Drag and to Hold," but he still worries that Lindsay's obsession with her work will consume her. Tom was played by Christopher Wiehl in the unaired pilot.
Deputy District Attorney Denise Kwon (Linda Park) - Jill's immediate superior at the DA's office, she clashes with her over her "bleeding heart" style. She is also antagonistic towards Jill due to her past romantic history with Hanson North. When the show returned after the writers' strike, the first episode credits no longer showed her name. But by the second episode, she was back in the credits as a series regular.
Recurring cast[edit]
Luke Bowen (Coby Ryan McLaughlin) – Jill's ex-boyfriend. He is an ER doctor at the fictional Mission Cross North. Jill and Luke have recently broken up after he finds that she had slept with Hanson.
Hanson North (Kyle Secor) – Defense attorney who has a romantic history with Jill and is currently seeing her boss, Denise Kwon.
Ed Washburn (Jonathan Adams) – Claire's husband. Currently uses a wheelchair full-time after being shot while serving as a police officer.
Heather Hogan née Donnelly (Ever Carradine) – Tom's new wife. She is a kindergarten teacher who is eco-friendly, planning a green wedding.
Pete Raynor (Joel Gretsch) – Lindsay's love interest in season 1, who is in town for only two weeks.
Law and order
Actor
Character
Rank/Position
Seasons
Notes
Regular
Recurring
Guest
George Dzundza
Max Greevey
Sergeant
1
Chris Noth
Mike Logan
Junior Detective
1–5
Appeared in Exiled
Dann Florek
Donald Cragen
Captain
1–3
5, 10, 15
Appeared in Exiled
Michael Moriarty
Ben Stone
EADA
1–4
Richard Brooks
Paul Robinette
ADA
1–3
6, 16–17
Steven Hill
Adam Schiff
DA
1–10
Paul Sorvino
Phil Cerreta
Sergeant
2–3
3
Jerry Orbach
Lennie Briscoe
Senior Detective
3–14
Appeared in Exiled
Carolyn McCormick
Elizabeth Olivet
Psychologist
3–4
5–7, 13–14,
16–18
2, 9–10, 19–20
S. Epatha Merkerson
Anita Van Buren
Lieutenant
4–20
Appeared in Exiled
Jill Hennessy
Claire Kincaid
ADA
4–6
Sam Waterston
Jack McCoy
EADA,
Interim DA,
DA
5–17,
18–present
Appeared in Exiled
Benjamin Bratt
Rey Curtis
Junior Detective
6–9
20
Appeared in Exiled
Carey Lowell
Jamie Ross
ADA
7–8
10–11, 21
Angie Harmon
Abbie Carmichael
ADA
9–11
Jesse L. Martin
Ed Green
Junior Detective,
Senior Detective
10–16
17–18
Dianne Wiest
Nora Lewin
Interim DA
11–12
Elisabeth Röhm
Serena Southerlyn
ADA
12–15
Fred Dalton Thompson
Arthur Branch
DA
13–17
Dennis Farina
Joe Fontana
Senior Detective
15–16
Michael Imperioli
Nick Falco
Junior Detective
15
16
Temporarily assigned
Annie Parisse
Alexandra Borgia
ADA
15–16
Milena Govich
Nina Cassady
Junior Detective
17
Alana de la Garza
Connie Rubirosa
ADA
17–20
Jeremy Sisto
Cyrus Lupo
Junior Detective,
Senior Detective
18
18–20
Linus Roache
Michael Cutter
EADA
18–20
Anthony Anderson
Kevin Bernard
Junior Detective,
Senior Detective
18–20
21
18
Jeffrey Donovan
Frank Cosgrove
Junior Detective,
Senior Detective
21
22–present
Camryn Manheim
Kate Dixon
Lieutenant
21–present
Hugh Dancy
Nolan Price
EADA
21–present
Odelya Halevi
Samantha Maroun
ADA
21–present
Mehcad Brooks
Jalen Shaw
Junior Detective
22–
Law and order svu
Jenna
Maureen
Kathleen
Richard
Elizabeth
Eli
Noah
Jessie
Mason
Billie
Olivia
Elliot Stabler
Christopher Meloni
Sr. Detective
Main
Recurring
274
Olivia Benson
Mariska Hargitay
Jr. Detective (S1–12)
Sr. Detective (S13–15)
Sergeant (S15–17)
Lieutenant (S17–21)
Captain (S21–)
Main
508
John Munch
Richard Belzer
Sr. Detective (S1–8)
Sergeant (S9–15)
Main
G
326
Donald Cragen
Dann Florek
Captain (S1–15)
Main
G
G
332
Monique Jeffries
Michelle Hurd
Jr. Detective
M
25
Alexandra Cabot
Stephanie March
Assistant DA
Main
G
R
M
R
G
97
Fin Tutuola
Ice-T
Jr. Detective (S2–8)
Sr. Detective (S9–19)
Sergeant (S19–)
Main
476
George Huang
BD Wong
Psychiatrist (S2–15)
R
Main
Guest
G
230
Casey Novak
Diane Neal
Assistant DA
Main
G
R
112
Melinda Warner
Tamara Tunie
Chief Medical Examiner
Recurring
Main
Recurring
G
Guest
226
Chester Lake
Adam Beach
Jr. Detective
R
M
21
Kim Greylek
Michaela McManus
Assistant DA
M
22
Nick Amaro
Danny Pino
Jr. Detective
Main
G
95
Amanda Rollins
Kelli Giddish
Jr. Detective (S13–21)
Sr. Detective (S21–24)
Main
226
Rafael Barba
Raúl Esparza
Assistant DA (S14-19)
Defense Attorney (S21-23)
R
Main
Guest
118
Dominick Carisi
Peter Scanavino
Jr. Detective (S16–20)
Assistant DA (S21–)
Main
155
Peter Stone
Philip Winchester
Assistant DA
M
36
Katriona Tamin
Jamie Gray Hyder
Officer (S21–22)
Jr. Detective (S22–23)
Main
36
Christian Garland
Demore Barnes
Deputy Chief
R
M
25
Joe Velasco
Octavio Pisano
Jr. Detective
M
15
Grace Muncy
Molly Burnett
Jr. Detective
Law and order oc
Danielle Moné Truitt as Sergeant Ayanna Bell, squad supervisor of the OCCB task force and Stabler's current direct superior and partner.
Ainsley Seiger as Detective 2nd Grade Jet Slootmaekers, a former independent hacker who is recruited to the OCCB task force on Stabler's recommendation. She was requalified as an NYPD officer to work with the OCCB task force. In season 3 episode 16 ("Chinatown"), she is promoted from Detective 3rd Grade to Detective 2nd Grade.
Tamara Taylor as Prof. Angela Wheatley (seasons 1–2), a former math professor at Columbia University, ex-wife of Richard Wheatley, and a suspect in the hit ordered on Kathy Stabler. She committed suicide and presumably murdered Richard at the same time after discovering that Richard was responsible for her son Richie's murder.
Dylan McDermott as Richard Wheatley (seasons 1–2), son of notorious mobster Manfredi Sinatra, now a businessman and owner of an online pharmaceutical company who leads a second life as a crime boss, and was a suspect in the murder of Stabler's wife. He was presumed murdered by Angela after she discovered that Wheatley murdered their son Richie.
Nona Parker Johnson as Detective 3rd Grade Carmen "Nova" Riley (season 2, recurring season 2), an undercover narcotics detective working under Brewster's command to infiltrate the Marcy Killers. She retires from the NYPD and leaves New York after the murder of the gang's leader Preston Webb.
Brent Antonello as Detective 2nd Grade Jamie Whelan (season 3), a detective with the OCCB. In the season 3 finale, he is shot and paralyzed by Kyle Wilkie and later dies in the hospital.
Rick Gonzalez as Detective 2nd Grade Bobby Reyes (season 3–present), an undercover detective with the OCCB.
Chicago pd
Jason Beghe as Sergeant Henry "Hank" Voight, the enigmatic and often mercurial chief of the Chicago P.D.'s Intelligence Unit. Despite his brutal, tough exterior, he is loyal to the cops and detectives serving under him and highly "dedicated" to the victims of the crimes his unit investigates to the point of committing human rights violations, mainly torture, and not respecting the law. He is first introduced in Chicago Fire as a dirty cop who clashes with CFD Lieutenant Matthew Casey after Voight's son, Justin, causes an accident in which a teenager is paralyzed, and Casey, who was first on scene, had intended to testify that Justin was DUI. He is arrested by Det. Antonio Dawson for trying to have Casey silenced by force but is later released from prison and reinstated to the police force by Internal Affairs. As a result, many of Casey's colleagues dislike him, and Casey's superior Chief Boden has a love-hate working relationship with him. It is eventually revealed in the Chicago Fire episode "Let Her Go" that his dirty cop alter ego was part of an undercover operation to catch criminals and other dirty cops. Prior to taking command of Intelligence, Voight worked in the Gang Unit. His father Richard was a former CPD officer who was killed in the line of duty. Voight is a widower; his wife, Camille, died of cancer some years prior. His son, Justin, served in the Army and was killed in the last episode of season 3 while trying to help a friend. Voight took an interest in Erin Lindsay at 14 and raised her as his daughter.
Jon Seda as Senior Detective Antonio Dawson (seasons 1–6), an Intelligence Unit detective who previously arrested Voight for harassment and has since worked alongside him. Unlike Voight, he has limits on how far he will go to get criminals off the streets, as shown by the fact that he asks Halstead to stop Voight from killing anyone while on the hunt for Pulpo because he does not want it on his conscience. He and his ex-wife Laura have two children: Diego and Eva. He is the older brother of Chicago Fire character Gabriela "Gabby" Dawson. In season 4, he is offered a job at the State's Attorney's Office as Lead Investigator, which he accepts. After becoming disillusioned with the job, he returns to the unit in the first episode of season 5. In season 6, Antonio struggles with recovering from a shoulder injury and dependency on the oxycodone he is taking for the pain. After a dealer he owes kidnaps, beats, and rapes his daughter, Antonio, high on oxy, kills him in revenge. Though Voight and Ruzek manage to cover up the incident as self-defense, and Antonio successfully recovers in rehab, mayor-hopeful Superintendent Brian Kelton later gets the case reopened in order to take down the Intelligence Unit, and in the season finale, Antonio relapses after Ruzek is arrested after taking the blame for everything to protect him. In the season 7 premiere, it is revealed that Voight found Antonio and checked him into an off-the-books rehab clinic to get him clean again while also protecting his career. It was revealed several episodes later that Antonio resigned and moved to Puerto Rico to spend more time with his family.
Sophia Bush as Detective Erin Lindsay (seasons 1–4),[7] a tough Intelligence Unit detective and former CI whom Voight took under his wing when she was a juvenile delinquent. Because of this, she is closer to Voight than the other members of the unit. She has a half-brother, Teddy Courtney, who was taken by a pedophile ring at age thirteen and was found turning tricks in New York City 10 years later. She was in a relationship with her partner Jay Halstead from seasons 2 to 4. Near the end of the fourth season, Lindsay is accused of assault after she sticks her gun down a pedophile's throat in the interrogation room; facing possible dismissal from the police force, she accepts a job offer at the FBI in New York and leaves Chicago.
Jesse Lee Soffer as Senior Detective Jay Halstead (seasons 1–10), an Intelligence Unit detective who was Detective Lindsay's partner. A former Army Ranger, he is confident in his abilities and sometimes comes across as cocky. He also suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, shown progressively during Season 5, later seeking therapy for it. He is the older brother of Chicago Med character Dr. Will Halstead. He was in a relationship with his partner Erin Lindsay from season 2 until she transferred to the FBI in New York at the end of season 4. He later marries fellow detective Hailey Upton in season 9. Following Olinsky's death and Antonio's resignation, Halstead becomes Voight's right-hand. He later resigns from the force early in season 10 after becoming disillusioned with the gray area the Intelligence Unit has to work in, and returns to the Army in a new job hunting drug cartels in Bolivia.
Patrick John Flueger as Officer Adam Ruzek, a younger police officer recruited straight out of the academy by Olinsky to do undercover work. He is often portrayed as an overeager amateur who dives headfirst into a situation without thinking. His parents are separated, and he split time between his father, "Disco Bob" Ruzek (Jack Coleman), a longtime patrol officer with the 26th District who lives in Beverly, and his mother in Canaryville. He was engaged to fellow police officer Kim Burgess.
Marina Squerciati as Officer Kim Burgess, a former flight attendant turned uniformed patrol officer who was Atwater's partner. She was then partnered with Sean Roman before his departure. Burgess is shot in "Called in Dead" and spends the next episode recovering. She was engaged to Adam Ruzek; the relationship is later broken off because of commitment issues. She later develops feelings for Roman before he moves to San Diego. In season 4, she is offered a job in Intelligence, which she accepts.
LaRoyce Hawkins as Officer Kevin Atwater, a uniformed patrol officer who was Burgess' former partner until he was promoted to the Intelligence Unit. He is responsible for caring for his younger siblings, his brother, Jordan, and sister, Vanessa. After his brother testifies to a grand jury about a crime he witnessed, and Vanessa is threatened with rape for her brother being a snitch, he sends them to live with their aunt in Texas.
Archie Kao as Detective Sheldon Jin (season 1), a tech and surveillance expert. He was discovered to be a reluctant mole working for Internal Affairs sergeant Edwin Stillwell, who had leverage to make him cooperate. He is found murdered in the first-season finale episode, "A Beautiful Friendship".
Elias Koteas as Senior Detective Alvin Olinsky (seasons 1–5), a veteran undercover officer and a friend of Voight who previously worked with him in the Gang Unit. Before joining the force, Olinsky served in the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team stationed in Vicenza, Italy. Olinsky mentions in "Called in Dead" that he has eight confirmed kills in the line of duty. At the end of the fifth season, Olinsky is arrested for the murder of Kevin Bingham, the man who murdered Voight's son, Justin, and is later stabbed to death via a hit in prison while awaiting trial.
Amy Morton as Sergeant Trudy Platt (season 2–present; recurring season 1), a sarcastic desk sergeant of District 21, and the immediate superior of the district's patrol officers. Before taking a desk job, she was a uniformed patrol officer, and worked with Dawson. She passed the detective's exam twice. Platt is married to Chicago Fire character Randy "Mouch" McHolland.
Brian Geraghty as Officer Sean Roman (seasons 2–3; guest season 7[8]), a brash patrol officer who partners with Burgess after transferring to the 2-1 from District 31. He transferred out because of his relationship with Jenn Cassidy (Spencer Grammer), who is now a K-9 officer, to avoid breaking fraternization rules. He has his own private security company on the side. After being wounded in the line of duty, and with the department feeling he would be unable to return to patrol, he resigns and decides to join the San Diego Police Department.
Tracy Spiridakos as Detective Hailey Upton Halstead (season 5–present; recurring season 4), a tough former robbery-homicide detective and Erin Lindsay's replacement following her departure to New York. Upton gets transferred to the FBI field office in New York City in season 7 episode 18, "Lines", to temporarily fill in for an agent undercover. She has great relationships with her CIs and goes to many lengths to protect them. Despite a dark turn in Season 7, she is mostly a "by the book" detective. She is married to former Detective Jay Halstead.
Lisseth Chavez as Officer Vanessa Rojas (season 7), a rookie and Antonio Dawson's replacement following his resignation. She previously worked in an undercover operations unit.
Benjamin Levy Aguilar as Officer Dante Torres (season 10; guest season 9[9]), a recruit who had a complicated past and was recruited under Detective Halstead's wing.Recurring[edit]
Samuel Caleb Hunt as Greg "Mouse" Gerwitz (seasons 1–4), the tech and surveillance expert for the Intelligence Unit who replaces Detective Jin. He had served in the same Army unit as Halstead. After he persuades Voight to get a felony expunged, he resigns from Intelligence to reenlist in the Army.
Stella Maeve as Nadia Decotis (seasons 1–2), an 18-year-old former escort and addict whom Lindsay tries and succeeds in helping. She later becomes the Intelligence Unit's civilian administrative aide and was studying to be a police officer. She was murdered by Dr. Gregory Yates in Law & Order: SVU's 16th season, episode "Daydream Believer", the conclusion of the season's second SVU/Chicago crossover event.
Jordan
Vanessa
The lizzie bennet diaries
Elizabeth "Lizzie" Bennet (Ashley Clements;[11] Elizabeth Bennet in the novel) is the middle Bennet sister and the narrator of most of the vlogs. She is a graduate student studying mass communications and, like her original counterpart, believes women should be highly educated and do more with their lives than simply pursue husbands. She is very close with her best friend, Charlotte Lu, who was born on the same day as she, as well as her older sister, Jane, while appearing to have a more strained relationship with her younger sister, Lydia. While it is clear that she cares for her family and friends, she can also be fairly prejudiced and quick to judge people who she perceives as condescending or a threat to her way of life, such as Darcy and, at first, Bing Lee.
Charlotte Lu (Julia Cho;[12] Charlotte Lucas in the novel) is Lizzie's best friend and often the director/editor of her vlog. Charlotte wants to be a filmmaker and convinced Lizzie to start her vlog as part of a school project. While the original character of Charlotte Lucas from the books is a minor character, Lu's role in The Lizzie Bennet Diaries has been greatly expanded; she appears in many of the beginning episodes, and, according to both Lizzie and Jane, practically lives at the Bennet house. Charlotte and Lizzie have a falling out after Charlotte accepts Ricky Collins' job offer (which Lizzie originally turned down), but the two soon reconcile.
Jane Bennet (Laura Spencer[13]) is the eldest of the Bennet children, and an overworked, underpaid merchandise coordinator in the fashion world. She is incredibly polite, sweet and, according to Lizzie, "practically perfect in every way."[14] When Bing Lee moves into town, Jane is immediately smitten with him, much to the absolute joy of her mother. Jane is devastated by Bing's sudden departure. She moves to Los Angeles for both a new job and the hope of reconnecting with Bing. She later returns to her home to support her sister Lydia through her difficulties. After this is resolved, Jane is offered a new job in New York City and reconciles with Bing.
Lydia Britney Bennet (Mary Kate Wiles[15]) is the youngest Bennet child, currently attending community college. She is "feisty, energetic, and unapologetic."[16] Lizzie, somewhat less kindly, describes her as "too old to be on any reality shows about having babies in high school."[14] She has also created a series of her own videos starring herself, her cousin Mary, and her cat, Kitty.[17] On the occasion of her 21st birthday in December 2012, she and Lizzie get into a bitter argument about Lydia's perceived immaturity, and Lydia makes plans to vacation in Las Vegas for New Year's Eve, where she meets George Wickham and begins dating. Later, after being the victim of George Wickham's money-making site, she makes up with her sisters.
Bing Lee (Christopher Sean;[18] Charles Bingley in the novel) is a young, wealthy Asian-American medical student who has moved into The Netherfield House in the same neighborhood as the Bennets. He quickly falls for Jane Bennet and begins to date her. Bing abruptly leaves Netherfield and Jane by returning to Los Angeles, breaking Jane's heart, after Darcy suggests that Jane is only engaging in a relationship with him for his money and Caroline tells him that Jane flirted with another guy at his birthday party. However, after a run-in with Lizzie during her time at Pemberley Digital, he makes a return, having quit medical school to pursue his own passions. He and Jane move to New York together in episode 92.
Caroline Lee (Jessica Jade Andres;[19] Caroline Bingley in the novel) is Bing Lee's sister. She is aware of Lizzie's vlog diaries and appears to help Lizzie keep Bing and Darcy from discovering them during Lizzie and Jane's stay at Netherfield. She has a romantic interest in William Darcy, although her feelings aren't reciprocated. She is later revealed to have attempted to manipulate events to keep Bing and Jane apart, as well as (to a lesser extent) stymie Darcy's feelings for Lizzie. Caroline reappears in the sequel, Emma Approved, as Senator James Elton's fiancé, replacing Augusta Elton, the original wife of Philip Elton, from the novel.[20]
Ricky Collins (Maxwell Glick;[21] William Collins in the novel) is a former classmate of Lizzie and Charlotte's, who asks that he be addressed only as Mr. Collins. He has formed an alliance with venture capitalist Catherine de Bourgh, to attempt a foray into the world of web video. Mr. Collins frequently visits the Bennets while in town for a few weeks and, near the end of his stay, offers Lizzie a lucrative job at his company, Collins and Collins. Lizzie turns him down, so he offers the job to Charlotte, who accepts. This decision causes a brief but bitter argument between the two best friends, but they reconcile after Charlotte invites Lizzie to visit Collins & Collins (in the fictional town of Hunsford, California), where Lizzie also learns to tolerate Mr. Collins.
William Darcy (Daniel Vincent Gordh;[22] Fitzwilliam Darcy in the novel) is Bing Lee's best friend and the wealthy heir to an entertainment corporation called Pemberley Digital. He stays with Bing and Caroline at Netherfield until they all leave for Los Angeles. He first meets Lizzie at a wedding, and she overheard him telling Bing that she was "decent enough", which is when her dislike towards him starts. He is described by Lizzie as a snobby and condescending robot, and Jane has difficulty coming up with a flattering descriptor of him, beyond "tall";[23] Charlotte, however, believes that Darcy has a crush on Lizzie.[24] For a long time, second-hand characterization is all the audience has to go by, as Darcy is referred to but never seen, making his first appearance in episodes 59[25] (only from the neck down) and 60,[26] where he confirms Charlotte's suspicions by confessing his love for Lizzie.
George Wickham (Wes Aderhold[27]) is the coach of a university swim team who forms a short-lived romantic attachment with Lizzie. He claims that though he and Darcy were childhood friends, Darcy ruined his life by withholding money Darcy's father had promised, thereby ending George's hopes of a college education.[28] He leaves town for work, eventually re-entering the story after New Year's Day, where he meets and becomes romantically involved with Lydia, as chronicled in her spin-off videos. At the same time, Lizzie learns that George gambled away all the money the elder Darcy left for him, and then took advantage of Gigi Darcy, William's sister, for more. Finally, he attempts to exploit "YouTube Star Lydia Bennet" by releasing a sex tape of the two of them online.[29]
Fitz Williams (Craig Frank;[30] Col. Fitzwilliam in the novel) is Darcy's friend and colleague. Lizzie meets him while dining with Catherine de Bourgh, Darcy's aunt and Charlotte's boss. He has a boyfriend, Brandon, whose name was officially confirmed on Fitz's Twitter, and is particularly good at making care-packages.
Georgiana "Gigi" Darcy (Allison Paige;[31] Georgiana Darcy in the novel) is William Darcy's younger sister and a graphic designer at Pemberley Digital. Her first appearance in The Lizzie Bennet Diaries was Episode 77. She is aware of the video diaries, and claims to like them. She and George Wickham were romantically involved, but this ended when William proved that George was taking advantage of her for the money. Twitter posts between Gigi and Fitz suggest that she actively tries to push Lizzie and Darcy together. She is also instrumental in helping to end George's money-making plot: though the website itself did not list his name and George had stopped returning calls, he answers Gigi when she calls him, allowing Fitz and Darcy to track him down. Thereafter Darcy bought out the company which owned the rights to the sex tape, preventing it from ever being released.
Mrs. Bennet is Lizzie's mother. She appears to be a traditional Southern woman, eager to see her daughters married and interested in little else besides neighborhood gossip. She is almost always impersonated by Lizzie.
Mr. Bennet is Lizzie's father. He appears more calm and levelheaded than his wife, though one of his favorite activities, according to Lizzie, is winding her up.[32] He has a special fondness for bonsai trees and prepares a train extravaganza every Christmas. He is often impersonated by Charlotte and Lydia.
Catherine de Bourgh (Lady Catherine de Bourgh in the novel) is Darcy's aunt and an extremely wealthy venture capitalist who is the primary investor in Collins & Collins, the new media firm run by Mr. Collins, where Charlotte accepts a job offer after Lizzie rejected it. Catherine is very attached to her sickly dog who she calls Annie Kins. She is quick with her opinions and judgements. Charlotte said that Catherine is "on Team Caroline," meaning that she wants her nephew to be with Caroline. She is impersonated by Lizzie, and Ashley Clements says her impression is a combination of Julia Child, Miranda Priestly and Dolores Umbridge.[33]
Mary Bennet (Briana Cuoco[34]) is Lydia, Jane, and Lizzie's cousin who has appeared sporadically in Lydia's vlogs and once in Lizzie's. She becomes better friends and occasional tutor with Lydia while Lydia is staying at her house despite their opposing personalities. She is often the "forgotten" character and her Twitter reads, "I am Mary, never forgotten." Mary also has a boyfriend by the name of Eddie (a subtle nod to the character of Edmund Bertram from Austen's Mansfield Park.)[35] In the novel, she is actually one of the five Bennet sisters, being the middle sister between Elizabeth and Kitty.
Kitty Bennet (Rosie of House Wiles) is Lydia's cat who appears in Lydia's vlogs. In the novel, she is actually one of the five Bennet sisters, being the second youngest after Lydia.
Maria
Clara
Chicago justice
Philip Winchester as Assistant State's Attorney Peter Stone, the Deputy Bureau Chief of the State's Attorney's Office Special Prosecutions Bureau. His father is Benjamin Stone, an assistant district attorney in New York City.[3] Stone would later become the ADA of the sex crimes bureau in New York.[4] He previously played professional baseball in the Chicago Cubs organization but his career ended when he tore his UCL.
Jon Seda as Chief Investigator Antonio Dawson. Before joining the State's Attorney's office, he worked as a detective in the 21st District with the Chicago P.D.
Joelle Carter as Investigator Laura Nagel. Also a former Chicago police officer like Dawson, Nagel left the force and developed an addiction to painkillers after a line-of-duty injury. She has been clean for months and is now struggling to regain custody of her daughter.
Monica Barbaro as Assistant State's Attorney Anna Valdez, Stone's second chair.
Carl Weathers as Cook County State's Attorney Mark Jefferies. He served as a Marine during the
Chicago med
Dr. William "Will" Halstead
Nick Gehlfuss
Attending Physician in Emergency Medicine
Main
April Sexton
Yaya DaCosta
Emergency Dept Nurse
Main
Recurring[1]
Dr. Natalie Manning
Torrey DeVitto
Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physician
Main[a]
Guest
Dr. Sarah Reese
Rachel DiPillo
First Year Psychiatry Resident
Main
Guest
Dr. Connor Rhodes
Colin Donnell
First Year Fellow/Attending Physician in Trauma & Cardiothoracic Surgery
Main[b]
Dr. Ethan Choi
Brian Tee
Lieutenant Commander, USNR; Emergency Medicine Attending Physician
Main
Sharon Goodwin
S. Epatha Merkerson
Executive Director of Patient and Medical Services
Main
Dr. Daniel Charles
Oliver Platt
Chief of Psychiatry
Main
Maggie Lockwood
Marlyne Barrett
Emergency Department Charge Nurse
Main[c]
Dr. Ava Bekker
Norma Kuhling
Second Year Fellow & later Attending Physician in Cardiothoracic Surgery
Recurring
Main[d]
Dr. Crockett Marcel
Dominic Rains
Fourth Year Resident & later Attending Physician in General Surgery
Main[e]
Dr. Dean Archer
Steven Weber
Interim Chief of Emergency Medicine and Trauma Attending Physician
Recurring
Main
Dr. Dylan Scott
Guy Lockard
Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physician
Main[f]
Dr. Stevie Hammer
Kristen Hager
Emergency Medicine Attending Physician
Main[g]
Dr. Hannah Asher
Jessy Schram
Emergency OB/GYN Attending Physician
Recurring
Guest
Main[h]
Chicago fire
Name
Portrayed by
Position
Seasons
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
Matthew Casey
Jesse Spencer
Lieutenant, Truck 81
Main[a]
Guest
Kelly Severide
Taylor Kinney
Lieutenant, Squad 3
Main
Gabriela Dawson
Monica Raymund
Paramedic in Charge, Firefighter
Main
Guest
Leslie Elizabeth Shay
Lauren German
Paramedic
Main
Guest
Peter Mills
Charlie Barnett
Firefighter, Paramedic
Main
Christopher Herrmann
David Eigenberg
Lieutenant, Engine 51
Main[b]
Dr. Hallie Thomas
Teri Reeves
Resident Physician
Main[b]
Wallace Boden
Eamonn Walker
Battalion Chief
Main
Brian "Otis" Zvonecek
Yuri Sardarov
Firefighter
Recurring
Main[c]
Randall "Mouch" McHolland
Christian Stolte
Firefighter
Recurring
Main
Joe Cruz
Joe Minoso
Firefighter, Engineer
Recurring
Main
Sylvie Brett
Kara Killmer
Paramedic
Main
Jessica "Chili" Chilton
Dora Madison
Paramedic
Guest
Main[d]
Jimmy Borelli
Steven R. McQueen
Firefighter Candidate, Paramedic
Main[e]
Stella Kidd
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Note
Even the most well intentioned human can be persuaded to sell you out for their own benefit. They can't be trusted, especially the ones who act like they care. At least violent people are honest with their violence; the rest hide their nature until the right opportunity comes along.
Manipulate My Muse || Accepting!
"It's funny you say that, because I knew the man who was once know as the most violent man in all of the West. Callen the Lawman, Callen the Murderer, but deep down, Callen had a heart of gold and a gentle soul. Everyone has the capacity for violence and for evil, but it's in times of desperation that you see a man's true nature.
"In the end when it came down to help me or leave me to die, each one of them helped me. One helped save me from a particularly nasty death by blowing up. Another saved me from being absorbed into an abomination tree. And the last saved me from a homicidal couple that hunted people for sport. The amount of violence or good intentions they had, had nothing to do with it. Deep down, they are all good people."
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storyofmychoices · 2 years
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Lazy Afternoon
[Troy Hassan x Astraea Callen Masterlist]
Pairing: Troy Hassan x Astraea Callen (F!MC) Book: Wake the Dead: Chapter 6 Word Count: <700 Rating: General—all the fluff (no warnings) Prompts: @choicesmonthlychallenge: garden Setting: At Sunflower Creek, after May offers Troy the first flower and he returns it to her.
Synopsis: Troy and Astraea enjoy a quiet moment in the sun.
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"Always the gentleman, aren't you?" Astraea smiled as she settled down beside Troy who was sprawled out on the lush green grass, arms folded behind his head.
His gaze followed hers to the young girl bouncing about the garden showing off the newly added flower in her crown while teaching her new friends about botany. "She's a cute kid."
Noting his attention, May eagerly waved back to him.
Troy propped himself up, offering a wide smile and his own warm gesture in reply.
"Careful," Astraea warned, nudging him lightly. "Keep that up and someone will end up with a crush on you."
His confident smirk and dark eyes settled on her. "So you're saying you're developing a crush on me?"
"What?" She stammered, eyes widening. Her cheeks warmed under his steady and unwavering gaze. "That's not what I meant. Pfft. Don't flatter yourself."
"Hmm," he hummed between pressed lips. His brow arched challengingly. "The lady doth protest too much, methinks."
An exhausted sigh left her lips as she shook her head, her eyes rolling at him. "You'd love that, wouldn't you?"
His jovial grin faded, giving way to a soft honest smile. "It wouldn't be that bad, would it? You could do worse."
"I—" Astraea chewed the corner of her lip, unsure where this conversation was leading. She had never given much thought about that kind of future—with anyone, let alone him. But he was right; she could do worse, a lot worse. She searched his gaze for answers she couldn't find. Of course, she cared for him. He was her best friend. She'd always love him. "Your head's already big enough. You don't need me crushing on you to inflate it further."
Without another word, she laid back onto the soft green blanket of the earth peppered with tiny yellow and white flowers. Her fingers threaded softly between the silky blades of grass. "It's beautiful here."
Troy leaned back once more, folding his arms beneath his head as his gaze returned to the brilliant blue sky above painted with fluffy white clouds.
Astraea shifted closer, resting her head on his shoulder. 
"Comfortable?"
"Immensely." She shrugged playfully as she relaxed into him. "No reason for both of us to have our heads on the ground."
"I guess not." The skin around his eyes wrinkled as they basked in the glow of the sun's warmth together.
"Troy?" She turned into him, her face growing closer to his as she watched him observe the sky.
"Yeah?"
"What are you doing?"
"Cloud watching."
"Why? Where are they going?" 
"Doesn't really matter. That's not the point."
"What is then?"
"There isn't one."
"That doesn't make sense. Everything has a purpose or a reason; otherwise, why do it?"
"Perhaps then, the point is to be still and just enjoy the moment," Troy decided as a gentle spring breeze rolled across the meadow, brushing softly across his cheek. "It's said to have been a favorite pastime of children on summer days in the old world. Before they had to worry and keep moving, they could lay for hours while reading the story unfolding in the sky."
"What story?"
"It's up to you. Each cloud can tell a story."
"I think you're making this up."
"Just look and listen closely. Let your heart guide you."
"You really are a secret romantic, aren't you?" Astraea smiled, nestling back against Troy. 
"Not too loud." He looked around, feigning worry. "Can't have you blowing my tough guy reputation."
"You wish."
Their quiet laughter drew them closer, leaving no space between them.
"What do you see?" She pondered after a moment, unable to see a story of her own." In the sky. What story do you see?"
"So many."
"Can you show me?"
"Sure." He glanced over at her, her head resting comfortably on him as she gazed curiously above. A lazy afternoon. He never expected to experience a moment like this, let alone with her. Soon they'd have some new problem to face, but right now, this moment was all there was. "It'd be my pleasure."
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A/N: Writer's block has stopped me from writing the fics I wanted and planned to write, so have a random Troy fic instead. He's like a ray of sunshine and I adore him for it.
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angryschnauzer · 3 years
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Castle Under The Stars
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Summary: You always worry when its a full moon and your husband is away on assignment, but this full moon is different as he comes home to be with you. Will it be for good? And just how much fun can two werewolves get up to during the full moon when they have a child to look after?
A continuation of Moonlight On The Sand
Pairing: Werewolf Captain Syverson x Werewolf Female Reader
Warnings: NSFW, 18+, Oral Sex, Outdoor Sex, Werewolves, Breeding, Breeding Kink.
Typos are free range and organic, allowed to run wild and free. I do not operate a tag list but if you follow @angryschnauzerwrites​ and put that blog onto notifications, you’ll get an alert each time i post something new. Past works can also be found there.
Castle Under The Stars
You stepped out onto the back porch and propped the door open with a boot, the warm summer's breeze blowing softly at the net curtains on the kitchen windows, bringing in the scent of the roses in from the garden. Wiping your hands on your apron before hanging it on the little hook by the door, you grabbed your garden shears and flower basket, and headed out with bare feet onto the cool grass. The windows of your cabin all stood open, allowing the warm breeze to flow through the house, but also so you could hear if your little one cried from his nursery.
Quietly you stood and let the breeze push your light skirt against your legs as you carefully selected roses from the overloaded bushes. Small clouds skidded across the night sky, and for a moment you turned your face to feel the soft moonlight on your skin. The reflection of the sun's rays on its surface from orbit made your skin prickle, as if someone was pouring champagne over your limbs, but that was as far as your transformation would go, with the exception of the ring of fire in your irises.
You had been Sixteen when you had been turned. On a geology camping field trip, nature had literally callen and as you’d been in the bushes relieving yourself that’s when the lupine had got you. It took a few months to realise what had happened, and it was only when your monthly period bleed coincided with a full moon did you turn. With irregular cycles through your teens and early twenties, you probably only turned twice, maybe three times a year, but eventually you got used to it.
It had however been a bit of a shock to your new husband, Sy, when you had turned for the first time. He’d knocked you up on the first day he met you, so it took a good 11 months before your cycle had come back, two months after the birth of your precious baby boy. That first night had been a challenge; dealing with a newborn whilst both parents were howling at the moon, however you were thankful that Edith who lived in the cabin down the lane knew of these things, and upon hearing the howling had rushed over in her nightgown. 
Since then Edith had been like a surrogate mother and grandmother, as it turned out her late husband had the lupine tendencies too. Your deployment had ended whilst you were on maternity leave and you’d chosen to leave the Army entirely rather than take a desk job. Sy was special ops and in the middle of another deployment, but you had no idea when that would finish because of the nature of his assignment. Looking up at the moon you wondered where he was, hoping he was coping with the full moon and his monthly transformation. You weren’t ashamed to admit you actually really enjoyed when he was at home for a full moon; he was even more attentive and the sex was mind blowing. Standard sex with Sy left you bow legged and exhausted, but with the added power of the moon… well, it was out of this world and you’d had orgasms so strong you’d actually passed out a couple of times. 
The sounds of the occasional truck on the highway a couple of hundred feet away sporadically filled the night, and you thought about that time Sy had driven out to the lake with you and you’d spent the night fucking under the moonlight in the flatbed which he’d covered with blankets and throw pillows. You’d been seven months pregnant but good god it was some of the best sex you’d ever had. 
As you shifted to reach a particularly large rose you could feel your panties stick to you, just the thought of Sy was making you wet and ready. You wished you knew when he would be home, taking matters into your own hands wasn’t nearly as satisfying as the real thing from the man you loved.
Just then you heard a pair of owls hooting in the distance, a truck on the highway honking its horn, so you didn’t notice the sound of tyres on the long grassy driveway that ran up the hill to the cabin. Humming to yourself you were running your fingertips over the soft petals of a trailing white rose when the first hint of his scent reached you on the wind. It made you stop and doubt yourself, before it hit again and you felt the heat in the pit of your stomach bloom. Dropping the basket and shears on the grass you ran to the front of the cabin, the breeze catching at your skirts before you finally saw him, standing at the open gate to the garden, his large duffel hanging from his shoulder, the fire in his eyes as he finally saw you.
“Sy!”
He let the bag drop to the floor as you ran into his arms, launching yourself at him, your legs were wrapped around his thick waist as you kissed him. His deep laugh as you peppered his face with soft kisses, the tears of happiness rolling down your cheeks;
“I’m here Darlin’” he practically growled, and that’s when you remembered the moon.
Pulling back you looked him in the eyes, the golden ring of fire matching your own, and as he took long strides across the grass you felt the coupling connection again, just like that first night in the desert. 
He set you down on the lawn, laying you softly on the grass as he pressed open mouthed kisses down your neck. Grasping the front of your dress he let out a growl as he ripped the garment clean in two, humming his appreciation at your swollen breasts where you were still breastfeeding and soft belly, before your soaked panties met the same fate as your dress. His lips continued their path down your body, until he reached the apex of your thighs and inhaled deeply, his eyes shining bright in the moonlight before he dived in and licked a wide stripe through your soaked folds. There under the soft caress of the moon’s rays your lupine husband pulled the first of many orgasms from your body that night, surrounded by the wild calls of nature and the overwhelming scent of the roses. 
-
Sitting at the kitchen table, the morning sunlight streamed in through the windows as you flipped the pancakes on the skillet, smiling as you watched your two boys have breakfast. Michael sat in his high chair, babbling away as Sy seemingly understood every word of gibberish that came from his son’s lips. 
Sliding the pancakes onto a plate, you set it down on the table before you felt a strong arm around your waist and Sy pulled you across his lap, his massive hands smoothing over your bare thighs where all you wore were panties and his t-shirt;
“Steady there Darlin, making me want more than just pancakes for breakfast if you’re walkin’ around in just this”
Just then there was a knock at the screen door, all three of you turning to see Edith smiling and waving from the other side;
“Edith! Come in girl, been looking forward to seeing ya!” Sy called out, a huge grin on his face that got even bigger when he spied the basket she was carrying covered in a red and white checkered napkin.
You reluctantly climbed off your husband's lap, excusing yourself to quickly grab your robe as Sy and Edith talked;
“Big Sy, i knew it was your truck that rumbled past my cabin last night”
“Was indeed, home with my girl and my little man” he paused as Edith set the basket onto the table; “Those aren’t….?”
“They sure are” she pulled the napkin up and underneath were her famous peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies.
Sy quickly pulled one from the basket and snapped it in two, handing half to Michael who happily chewed on the freshly baked treat.
“Hmmmnnnn, Edith, i could get used to these”
“You staying this time Sy?”
“I sure am Edith”
“Does she know?”
“Nope, wanna surprise her later”
“Moon’ll be up again tonight, you want me to watch Mikey?”
Just then you walked into the room, catching the last of the conversation;
“Are you sure?”
Edith stood and smiled, rubbing a finger over Michael’s chubby little cheek;
“Absolutely, why don’t I drop by after he’s had his supper?”
-
Setting Edith up with everything she would need for an evening of watching Jeopardy as your son slept peacefully in his crib, you grabbed the picnic basket and blanket and gave Michael a kiss, before stepping out into the night air. Sy had already taken off, with the moon rising before sundown he got antsy, but he would meet you at the lake. He’d set everything up ready, and just told you to drive his truck down, he’d set off on foot earlier, wanting to burn some energy in the calmness of nature.
The truck's tyres crunched on the gravel as you parked up, the lake a still mirror for the pink purple skyline as the sun set behind the mountains in the distance. But none of those were what you were looking at, no, what drew your attention was your husband quietly sitting on a rock at the shoreline, his boots resting beside him as he let his feet cool in the waters. With your sandals left in the truck you walked across the soft sand before reaching the shoreline, sitting beside him as he wrapped his big arm around your shoulders.
“Sy, what are you thinking about?”
He looked at you, his smile warm as his eyes shone amber in the low light;
“Lots of things Darlin… how lucky i am to have you in my life, how i don’t think i could have coped with what happened if it hadn’t been for you”
“Oh Sy…” your eyes watered; “I love you so much”
“I love you too Darlin. You and Mikey are my world…” he paused, poignantly; “There’s something else i wanna tell ya Darlin…”
For a moment you heart sank, dreading what he was going to say;
“Sy…”
“Ya know how Walt’s construction business is expanding and he needs a new site manager?”
“What?” whatever you were expecting, it wasn’t that
“Well, i got a surprise…” he pulled you onto his lap, his hands resting on your ass; “I’m done with the Army”
“No! You’d better not be fibbing…” your eyes were full to the brim, nervous tears threatening to spill
“Not fibbing… i’m done. Wanted to keep it a surprise until i knew for sure that the assignment was completed”
Crying happy tears you wrapped your arms around your husbands shoulders, burying your face in his neck as you sobbed joyfully that he wasn’t going away again. 
When you had finally settled down and Sy had reassured you for the 10th time that it was definitely true, he was definitely staying home for good, the pair of you stood and started to walk along the shore of the lake barefoot, the warm sand beneath your feet as you clasped your hand around his.
The gentle sound of the water coupled with the feel of your skin touching his calmed Sy, even though the moon was out high above the pair of you, he didn’t feel the need to turn, the sense of utter contentment a balm on his soul. As you had rounded the lake he stumbled on a pebble, and in turn a giggle escaped your lips. Steadying himself he smirked and kicked at the water, splashing you a little as you let out a shriek at the cool water hitting your warm skin. Retaliating you splashed him a little more than you were expecting, soaking one side of his cargo shorts and he paused and looked at you with a feral smile spreading across his lips;
“Oh, now you’re in for it Darlin…”
Your legs carried you as you ran through the surf, knowing Sy would eventually catch you, yet the thrill was in the chase. You could hear his heavy footfalls gaining on you, but you had the advantage of being light on your feet and made a sharp turn into the woodland, the soft grass beneath your feet dry and coarse. You realised he wasn’t behind you and you slowed, turning to try and figure out where he went, when suddenly he emerged from the bushes, his eyes glowing amber in the darkness and he tackled you to the ground, yet somehow managed to turn your bodies so you were on top of him;
“Gotcha!”
He pulled you down so he could kiss you, turning your bodies until he was on top, shifting his knees so he could nestle between your thighs. Your skirt had rucked up in the tussle, and the harsh brush of his shorts against the soft skin of your thighs had your hips bucking up against him, eager for friction as your arousal grew. With the quick fumbling of eager hands you were both soon naked, Sy kneeling between your spread thighs to take in the sight of you, your nipples hard and your arousal a sheen between your legs. Grabbing your hips he pulled you up his thighs, your back arched and your shoulders still on the ground as he thrust into you, spearing your flesh with his own and you both let out a howl of pleasure. 
Sy couldn’t tear his gaze away from where your bodies were joined, watching each time he pulled out and saw your juices glistening on his shaft, or how your cunt stretched open as he pushed this fat dick back into you, parting your walls and you cried out in pleasure. He fucked you like the feral beast he was, claiming his mate and catching the tell tale scent that drove him wild;
“Fuck, you’re ripe… gonna breed you and give you another pup. Thought i caught the scent last night but now i know for sure… can’t wait to see your belly round and your tits even fuller…”
He drove into your fertile body, feeling you cum around him yet he pounded through your orgasm knowing your cervix would be wide open now that you had cum and ready to take his seed. You were whimpering in his grasp, desperate for more but overwhelmed at the same time; 
“Sy… please… please put a baby in me…”
“Almost… there… Darlin’...” he grunted through thrusts, before his body went rigid and he threw his head back, filling your womb with pump after pump of his thick seed, a broad smile on his face as he even held you in place knowing that gravity would help get every last drop of cum through your cervix and flood your fertile ground. 
When he had finally finished coming he carefully settled the two of you onto the soft grass, holding you tight as your bodies were still joined, knowing that he would stay hard for another two or three goes. By the time he would be finished your bodies would be battered and bruised from the intensity of your lovemaking, yet the power of the moon would ensure by morning you would be healed, no outwardly visible signs that the feral carnality of the nights pleasures left behind, even if it meant you’d be sitting down tenderly on a cushion for the following 48 hours. 
It was well into the early hours when the pair of you finally limped back to Sy’s truck, resting your head on his shoulder as he carefully drove home, the moon having set early thanks to its cycle. 
When you arrived back at the cabin Edith was having a cigarette on the porch, the baby monitor resting on the rail next to her;
“Got it outta your systems?” she grinned as she took one last drag before crushing it in a plant pot of sand that sat at the doorway. 
“For tonight” Sy smirked as he carried you bridal style up the steps of the porch; “Can we book ya for tomorrow night too?”
“Sure thing Big Sy, but you’ll owe me”
“I’ll come fix the drainpipe around your porch once the full moon has passed”
“Deal… you’re a good-un” the old woman smiled as she grabbed her keys and slid the baby monitor into your lap as you quietly snoozed in your husbands arms; “It’ll be a girl this time”
Sy’s eyes went wide;
“How do you…?”
“I just know Sweetheart… my husband wasn’t the only one that’d turn ya’know…”
Sy held you as he watched the old woman make her way down the grassy lane to her cabin;
“She’s full o’ surprises is that one…” he looked down at you and pressed a kiss to your cheek, before catching the screen door with his booted foot; “Lets get you to bed for some rest… gotta recharge for tomorrow night… maybe make it twins…”
You shifted in his grasp;
“That’s not how it works” you mumbled sleepily, a smile on your face, but the truth was neither of you knew how it worked when you were lupine… really, anything could happen.
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ejzah · 4 months
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A/N: The first time Deeks comes to work after a surfing session, he causes quite the stir.
***
Moon Dust in Your Hair of Gold
“Did we really need to come in on a Saturday?” Kensi groans, plopping into her desk chair.
“Oh, sorry. Is real National security disrupting your life?” Sam asks sardonically.
“I’m supposed to be on a plane right now.” She jabs at her chest and then in the general direction of the windows. “I’m missing mimosas with my friends.”
“We all face hardships,” Sam says easily.
Resisting the urge to stick her tongue out at him, Kensi rummages through her drawer, pulling out a flattened snickers. Since she’d planned to eat on the plane, she never ate breakfast, and now she’s starving. And cranky.
“Hey, if we solve this quickly, you still might get to go,” Callen offers helpfully.
“Ok, I’m here. I’m not not happy about it, but I’m here. This nationally security emergency better not be another case of Hetty wanting to test our response time,” Deeks says, his voice preceding him by a few seconds.
He saunters into the bullpen, dressed in dark blue board shorts, and a white t-shirt. His hair is messier than usual, curling up at the edges with a few strands sticking to his cheeks and forehead.
Kensi’s eyes drift over him of their own accord. His skin looks especially tan against the pure white of his shirt, which clings to his torso, showing off the definition of his muscles. She catches herself just as she reaches the his waistline, dragging her gaze away with a guilty and shocked start.
“What the hell are you wearing?” Sam demands, looking Deeks over. His gaze is far less approving.
“I was at the beach when you called,” Deeks explains with a shrug. “You said it was an emergency, so I figured you didn’t want to wait for me to go home and change.”
“Least you could have done is put on some real pants.”
“Hey, at least I’m not in a wetsuit.” Dragging a hand through his hair, which only makes it that much more tousled, he winks at Sam. “Or a different kind of suit.”
“And I’d have to gauge my eyes out,” Kensi comments sweetly. Thankfully Deeks hadn’t seems to notice her temporary lapse in sanity.
“You keep telling yourself that, Fern.“ Deeks’ grin is just teasing enough that she knows he still thinks this is their usual type of banter.
“Personally, I don’t care, but Hetty will probably say something,” Callen intervenes. “Go change, and then meet us up in OPS.”
“Aye, aye, Captain,” Deeks says with a mocking salute. He stops to grab his go-bag, then turns to head in the direction of the locker rooms.
Kensi watches him as he leaves the room, eyes drawn to the dark blue of his trunks. They’re shorter and tighter than she realized, and she feels her skin flush with unexpected warmth at the way the fabric clings to muscle and round—”
“Kens!”
“What?” she snaps, head whipping around to face Sam. She quickly affects an annoyed expression even as her heart pounds with a mix of embarrassment and feelings she will not examine.
“You were staring,” Sam informs her.
“At Deeks,” Callen adds helpfully.
“As if,” she huffs. “More like I was trying not to kill him for being so annoying.”
“Uh-huh, had nothing to do with that sun-kissed hair and baby blues.”
“Definitely not.” Kensi turns back to her desk, pretending to concentrate on a blank expense report.
Under her breath, Callen sings “So they sprinkled moon dust in your hair of gold, and starlight in your eyes of blue.”
She’s going to kill them, Kensi decides. Starting with Deeks and his stupid blue eyes and ridiculously tight shorts.
***
A/N: The song referenced is “Close to You” by the Carpenters.
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rubyarrows · 9 months
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Matters of the Heart
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I watched as YN entered the room, her presence lighting it up instantly. It was a platonic bond we shared, an unbreakable connection forged through countless missions and shared experiences. Deeks and Kensi were there too, like our extended family, their camaraderie adding a sense of familiarity to the air.
As YN and I exchanged a knowing glance, I couldn't help but notice the slight tension in her expression. It was a look that only someone who knew her as well as I did would detect. Deeks and Kensi, always attuned to the nuances of our interactions, exchanged a glance of their own.
We gathered around the table, the mission details laid out before us. It was a routine briefing, the kind we had been through countless times before. Yet, there was an underlying tension, an unspoken weight that hung in the air. We were professionals, adept at masking our emotions, but even the best spies couldn't hide everything.
YN's eyes met mine again, and in that moment, I knew that she was struggling with something. I had always been able to read her, even when she thought she was hiding behind a mask. And right now, that mask was slipping.
"I know that's not what you want to hear," I said, my voice low but steady. It was a simple statement, but one loaded with meaning. It was my way of acknowledging her feelings without prying, of offering support without pushing her to reveal more than she was ready to.
Deeks cleared his throat, breaking the momentary silence that had settled over us. "You guys are like a married couple," he joked, attempting to lighten the mood. Kensi nudged him playfully, but even she understood the gravity of the situation.
YN managed a small smile, a flicker of gratitude in her eyes. She knew that I was there for her, that I would always be there, no matter what. And I knew that she appreciated my understanding, my silent offer of companionship.
As the briefing continued, our attention shifted back to the mission at hand. But that unspoken exchange between YN and me lingered in the background, a testament to the depth of our connection. Deeks and Kensi were more than just colleagues; they were our friends who had become family over the years. And in this tight-knit team, we found solace and strength in each other's presence.
So, we faced the mission together, as we always did. And as the briefing came to an end, YN and I shared another look, a silent promise that no matter what challenges lay ahead, we would confront them as a united front. In this world of secrets and uncertainties, our bond remained unwavering, a source of stability in the midst of chaos.
Sam and Hetty entered the room, their arrival marking the final pieces of our team falling into place. Sam's strong and steady presence was always reassuring, while Hetty's enigmatic wisdom and guidance were invaluable assets to us all.
"Is there something we're missing?" Hetty's keen gaze swept over the room, her eyes settling on each of us in turn. It was as if she could read our thoughts, dissect our emotions with a single glance.
"We were just discussing the mission, Hetty," I replied, keeping my tone neutral but respectful. I knew better than to try and hide anything from her.
YN's fingers tapped softly against the table, a telltale sign of her restlessness. Sam's observant eyes darted between us, a faint furrow forming on his brow. He might not have known the specifics, but he sensed the undercurrents at play.
"I sense there's more to this than meets the eye," Hetty mused, her gaze lingering on YN for a moment longer. "Mr. Callen, care to enlighten us?"
I took a deep breath, my eyes never leaving YN's. "It's personal, Hetty. Something YN is dealing with."
Hetty's lips curved slightly, a knowing glint in her eyes. "Ah, matters of the heart. The most intricate puzzles of all."
Sam's raised eyebrow and Deeks' barely suppressed grin made it clear that they were intrigued. Kensi gave YN a supportive smile, a silent gesture of solidarity.
YN finally spoke up, her voice steady despite the vulnerability in her eyes. "It's just… complicated."
"I know that's not what you want to hear," I repeated, this time directed at YN, my voice soft but firm. It was a reminder that I was there, that we were all there, no matter the complexities.
Sam crossed his arms, his expression serious. "We're a team, YNN. We've faced danger and uncertainty together more times than I can count. You can trust us."
YN nodded, her gratitude evident. "I know, Sam. It's just… difficult."
Hetty stepped closer to the table, her presence commanding attention. "Difficulties are the stepping stones to growth, my dear. And challenges, whether personal or professional, are best confronted with those who stand beside you."
As Hetty's words settled over us, a sense of unity enveloped the room. We were more than just colleagues; we were a family. A family that supported each other through the toughest of times.
"So, let's face this mission, as well as your personal challenges, head-on," Kensi said, her determination mirroring that of all of us.
The mission details regained the spotlight, but the atmosphere had shifted. There was a renewed sense of purpose, a shared resolve to not only tackle the mission but also to stand by YN as she navigated her own path.
As we dispersed to prepare for the mission, I caught YN's eye one last time. Our unspoken understanding remained, now fortified by the unwavering support of our team – Sam's strength, Hetty's wisdom, Deeks' humor, Kensi's empathy, and my steadfast presence.
In this ever-changing world of espionage, where loyalties could shift and trust was a rare commodity, our bond remained constant. And together, we were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, as both a team of professionals and a family of kindred spirits.
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orionares · 2 years
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BTHB: Held at Gunpoint
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BTHB: Held at Gunpoint
NCIS: Los Angeles 
@badthingshappenbingo
-------------------------
A/N: Started as a response to 'missing and presumed dead' but swerved left and became this. =]
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“Overwatch, do you copy?”
Investigator Marty Deeks lowers the binoculars in hand at the radio call in his ear mic. He shivers under the two day long downpour drenching the city and outskirts of Manila and answers through chattering teeth, “C-copy.”
Seven hundred yards or so away, Special Agent Sam Hanna sits in the plain Toyota Corolla sitting off-road. He’s the second set of eyes for the impending prisoner trade about to occur during the hot mess of a case. “You ready, Deeks?”
“Sure, sure, sure-'' Deeks answers through chattering teeth. “My wife was kidnapped by a psychopath with a grudge against the Navy and the only chance of us getting her back is to give up a possible collaborator to the attack of a NCIS office in Bahrain. Add in the fun part of me, someone who cannot shoot as well as Kensi, is manning the sniper rifle, her sniper rifle, mind you.” 
Deeks can hear Sam smirk through the mic. “I’ll take it. According to Fatima, the caravan is about three minutes out.” 
Deeks nods and then drops his head as another wave of anxiety running over him. One of the last times he’d been on Overwatch had been with Kensi by his side to save Anna and he had missed the first shot. 
How the hell is he going to shoot from a cliffside in the rain?
He reexamines each part of the black Barrett M99 rifle he lays next to for the fifth time since arriving on the cliffside a little less than a mile from the meeting zone. 
Cheek piece, grip, trigger, muzzle, bipod, scope.  
“Deeks, you with me?” Sam asks again, cutting through Deeks’ panicked haze. The Investigator peers up at the rain coming down and mutters, “I can’t screw this up, Sam.” 
“You aren’t alone in this, Deeks, and Kensi taught you well,” Sam reminds him. The thought would warm the Investigator’s heart but the fear of losing Kensi, the fear of missing and putting his entire team's lives in danger and the mind numbing cold May rain, stops it. 
“Guys, are we done with the pep talk?”  Callen whispers over his own ear mic from the black truck he’s parked in the middle of an open field. The man responsible for Kensi’s kidnapping, known as ‘Hunter’ , had only requested to speak with the lead agent during the exchange with simple details. 
“Drop off Kepler and then we will leave the girl. Come alone.” 
Deeks peers into the scope of the rifle and scans the stretch of land between Callen and Sam’s hidden car. The field appears abandoned with faint soccer lines spray painted into the grass. 
Likely an old field for the nearby suburb.
What psychopath wants to do a prisoner exchange in the middle of a kids' field?
Breathe, don't freeze to death and focus.
Callen’s voice cuts into his train of thoughts. “I have contact- northwest of my position.” 
Go time.
Deeks turns the rifle towards the northwest and feels his heart drop at the sight of a white van driving across the field . The van drives erratically, swerving left and right twice before screeching to a halt in front of Callen’s truck. Hunter, a wiry man in his forties, jumps out of the van’s driver seat and begins to yell something at Callen.
"YOU TRAI-"
And then the audio cuts out.
Oh hell no, Deeks thinks with disbelief. His heart begins to race as he watches Hunter continue to yell at Callen without any audio. He blinks furiously before calling out, "Sam, I can't hear Callen!"
"Me neither," Sam replies. The sound of the ex-SEAL's voice and shuffling out of the car is music to the Investigator's ears. "Blaming the rain. Getting closer to get a better view."
Deeks nods furiously as if Sam can see him and looks back through the scope. Hunter's waving his hands in the air while shouting at a cool and collected Callen before suddenly turning on his heels and marching back to the van. 
Line up the shot, account for the rain, wind, and distance, Deeks reminds himself. Hunter disappears briefly out of sight and reappears, dragging a handcuffed Kensi by the wrists. The passenger's side of the van opens and a burly tall man steps out with an assault rifle dangling from his shoulder. 
Deeks tightens his grip on the rifle while hovering his pointer finger near the trigger. Two against-
Two additional men walk from behind the van, also donning assault rifles. 
Scratch that- four against one. 
Callen backs away from Hunter and walks back to the black truck. Kepler, younger than Hunter by Deeks' guess, is guided out of the front seat by the lead agent. Handcuffed as well, the man mirrors Callen's calm demeanor as he's walked towards Hunter.
 “Sam, I think,” Deeks murmurs as he lines up his scope on the group, "I have a shot on two of Hunter's men but with Hunter, unclear."
Sam's answer causes the hair on the back of his neck standup. "Deeks, Hunter's pulled a gun on Kensi."
The Investigator immediately pushes himself to his knees and without a second thought, he grabs the rifle and moves a few feet to the left. He drops down to his stomach, props up the rifle on the bipod and presses his cheek against the scope. 
Hunter is now pressing the muzzle of a gun against the back of Kensi's head and yes, he is ending this immediately. 
Line up your sights.
Account for the wind and rain.
Steady yourself and then take the shot. For Kensi. 
"I've got a shot," Deeks states as this time, he's able to line up the scope directly onto the erratic Hunter. "Give me the-"
Sam cuts him off. "I'm in position. Take the shot."
The Investigator fires and lands his shot directly into Hunter's upper right torso. The man collapses to the ground and he briefly registers Kensi darting towards Callen in the middle of the chaos.
No time for thinking.  
Deeks lines up a second shot and fires again at the burly man from the passenger seat. The shot hits him in the back and he drops on the ground next to Hunter. 
"CLEAR!" 
Deeks freezes at Sam's voice booming in his ear. He lifts his head from the rifle and finds himself panting, "S-say again, Sam?"
"We've got Kens and the scene is secure. Nice shooting."
Deeks drops his head and lets out a breath of relief. Finally.
—------
Back in the car, Deeks shuts his eyes and rests his head back onto the headrest. He continues to shiver even as the vehicle's heat warms the car. Next to him, Kensi rubs her wrists with a furrowed brow. She's relatively calm post-kidnapping, miles calmer than her jittery husband.
"So no one's going to talk about Deeks on the rifle?" Kensi asks. She rests a hand on his thigh and smiles widely, "In the rain, too."
"He was chatty," Sam murmurs from the driver’s seat. He smirks through the rear view mirror as Callen nods in agreement. "But still made a hell of a shot. Two, actually."
"I was taught by the best," Deeks replies. The rifle lies collapsed down and in its case in the trunk. "Just luck and your rifle."
"Your rifle," Kensi states.  She smiles and squeezes his hand.  "You need to have more confidence in your ability to shoot and one of the first things is to find a rifle that fits you." She motions back to the trunk. "And I think you just did." 
My own rifle. The words feel unreal to the Investigator,  just as 'federal agent'  has been for him.
 Deeks smiles finally for the first time since leaving Los Angeles. My rifle. 
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bluenet13 · 3 years
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As Tears Go By
Written for @badthingshappenbingo​
Fandom: NCIS Los Angeles
Characters: Marty Deeks, Kensi Blye.
Prompt: Trying Not to Cry
Summary: Losing his job at LAPD forces Deeks to make comparisons to the one man he never wants to feel similar to. But sometimes all that is needed is some perspective, and luckily Kensi is there to help. (Set in December of season 12, after Deeks is fired from LAPD and before Hetty offers him a position at FLETC).
Links: ff.net - AO3
"Hey baby, I'm almost ready." Pants on but still in her bra, Kensi continued to towel dry her hair as she walked outside of the bathroom. Stopping shortly as she noticed Deeks still in bed. "Why aren't you ready? Are you feeling alright?"
Not able to ignore her concern any longer, Kensi reached a hand towards her husband's forehand, looking for signs of a fever that weren't going to be there. Deeks' disinterest when she had offered to shower together should have been a red flag but she had decided to play it cool and accept his explanation that he had taken a late shower when he came home from tending the bar. But now, finding the usual early riser and basically Santa's little helper still tangled in their bed sheets when they were supposed to be going out to pick their tree, Kensi realized she was missing something.
Mumbling something to himself, Deeks swatted Kensi's hand away and turned to stare at the opposite side of the room. "I'm okay," he eventually whispered, his words understandable this time around.
Nodding and sighing at the same time, Kensi tried to tamper down her emotions, walking back to the bathroom and continuing to get dressed. Maybe Deeks was really tired and just needed five more minutes.
Dressed and ready, Kensi picked his pants that accentuated his body in all the right places and the blue sweatshirt she loved as it made the color in his eyes bright even shinier, and dropped the clothes on the bed, partially over Deeks so he would get the hint, then left the room to make some coffee. Hoping the scent of fresh brew would do the trick and push Deeks out of bed.
Thirty minutes, two cups of coffee, and three pastries later, Kensi gave up hoping time would be enough, and decided to take matters into her own hands. "Hey Deeks, I brought you a coffee," Kensi said as she came into the room.
Mumbling again, Deeks pointed to the nightstand with disinterest, promptly dropping his arm back into the bed.
At a loss of what else to try, Kensi sat on the bed and began playing with Deeks' blonde locks. "Baby, what's going on? Talk to me. Did something happen at the bar? Are you feeling unwell?"
"I'm okay, Kens," Deeks said, doing his best to sound more convincing this time, but still continuing to stare at the wall, practically raising an invisible wall in between them, and now raising a million red flags in Kensi's mind.
"Then what's going on? Last week you kept going on and on about picking the best and biggest tree in the lot. You even wanted to get it before Thanksgiving and I had to convince you to wait a little bit longer. Now, you don't even want to get out of bed. So, what's happening here? What am I missing?" Kensi's tone had gone lower with each new word, her last question barely above a whisper. "Please, baby, let me in. Let me help." She added after some minutes had passed and Deeks hadn't spoken a single word.
"I just don't think we should be spending money on a tree right now," Deeks admitted softly.
"What? Why n...?" Kensi cut her question short as realization dawned on her. Deeks was a jokester but he felt things strongly and his emotions ran deeper than most. "Is this about LAPD? Deeks, we already spoke about that, we know it's temporary."
"And what if it isn't?" Deeks asked with a pained exhale, "we shouldn't be making emotional purchases when we're living on one salary alone. We also want to buy a house and start a family. All that takes money... money we don't have. Especially once my situation becomes permanent, and we both know it probably will. I mean, the only person that could have defended me left to become Commander of SWAT." As if an invisible barrier had lifted with the admission, Deeks finally got out of bed and sat next to Kensi. A hand searching for hers, while the other nervously played with the hem of the sweatshirt Kensi had brought him.
Having finally gotten to the root of the matter, Kensi allowed herself a brief smile to herself, before it turned sad and dejected, as she realized she couldn't offer Deeks the certainty and finality he needed. So she tried what she thought was the next best thing. "I'm sorry about Bates, Deeks. I know he gave you crap constantly but I also know he was good to you when it mattered. Even then, what you mean and what you have done for the LAPD is still true, regardless of your relationship with him, and they're fools if they don't realize what they would be losing if they let you go," Kensi began angrily, then softened her tone. "As for us, the house can wait until your situation is straightened out. We still have my Federal Agent salary. It's not as lucrative working for the government, but it's more than enough to get the tree. It really doesn't cost that much and if anything, it shouldn't be more than the overtime I worked for the last two cases alone."
"Living off my salary's wife is not really how I imagined life would be in my forties," Deeks said, but the harsh nature of his words softened by the way his voice began to break at the end.
"Where is this coming from, Deeks? Since when do you compare yourself to women in that way?" Kensi had other, more hostile words in mind, but her intention was to help Deeks, not start an argument. But his words had brought back old memories of dealing with sexist cops and misogynist men when starting her career in law enforcement, and she would be lying if she said it didn't sting.
Pulling back his hand from Kensi's, Deeks ran it through his face, then over his eyes in frustration. "I'm sorry, Kens. I didn't mean it that way. It's just…" A lump pressed it way up his throat and his eyes glazed over with tears, but he wiped them angrily. "My father also lost his job once. And that's when everything changed," Deeks said in a single exhale. And with his last word, his shoulders sagged, as his eyes began to cloud again and his breath hitched.
And there it was. The real reason behind Deeks' attitude. The honesty and sadness in his words, making Kensi's anger evaporate in a second, because she knew how much it must have hurt Deeks to make that admission.
"Oh, baby, you're nothing like your father." Bidding herself some time to find better words, Kensi pulled Deeks into her arms. Her heart breaking as he tensed at the same time a soft sniff escaped him.
"I might not be. But the situation is." Deeks closed his eyes as he continued, feeling the tears that were already pressing against his lids. "He was never the best father, but he was good and he always tried his best. We were happy. Then one year he lost his job, and at first, he tried again. But eventually he grew frustrated and began taking it on my mom. Then on me. By that time, he had already spent all his nights drinking his savings away at the local bar and there was no going back." When Deeks was done, he opened his eyes again and rubbed them with a heavy sigh.
"Deeks, baby, wait. Your situations are nothing alike. Many people lose their jobs but it's not the end of the line. Just a temporary setback." Not all people lose their jobs and become your father, she wanted to add, but decided against it. Drawing back, she took Deeks by the shoulders and stared at his blue eyes deeply, hoping that in her steady gaze he would find proof to believe her words were nothing but the truth.
"Maybe I'm not drinking it per se, but I saw alcohol destroy my father, and for some time, my mother too. And what did I do? Pour our savings into the very same thing that was my family's downfall." With that admission, Deeks' eyes again filled with tears, but he squeezed them shut, refusing to let any of them fall. As a child he had cried for his father, but as an adult he had promised himself to never shed another tear for the man.
"The Squid and the Dagger is not that. I admit, at first I didn't see it. But now I do. Your bar, our bar... is not a place for drunkards and violent men. It's a place for family, and joy and fun. When have we seen the team out of work so often? When have we spent so much family time with them? Never. Your idea, your dream, did that. It gave us the place we all needed to feel welcomed and at home. It gave Nell and Callen a place to mourn when they lost their mother and father. It gave Sam a place to start a new relationship away from the places he used to frequent with Michelle. It's giving Eric a place to see us and stay close to the team now that he's a billionaire and his calling in life has grown from just doing good with NCIS. It's giving us a new purpose, and a place to have the family we lacked before."
"But, we already have NCIS for that. We have OSP and the boatshed," Deeks tried to argue. Then he sniffed again, eyes burning.
"NCIS is where we work, Deeks. But it's not a home. It took me a long time to realize that. You're my home, and Callen, Sam, Hetty, Eric, Nell, even Fatima, and Roundtree. You taught me that Deeks, you just need to remember." Squeezing Deeks' shoulders, Kensi hoped he could feel the conviction behind her words, because when she had been at her lowest, Deeks had taught her the meaning of home, and she won't let him forget now. "One time you told me that you were already home, but that didn't mean NCIS as a location, it meant the team. It meant us, even if "us" didn't exist at the time in the way it does now. The feeling of home doesn't come from NCIS, but we do live it every day we're at the bar. The Squid and the Dagger means family."
Deeks nodded, but his eyes, the window to his soul, still looked troubled. Clouded not only by the tears he still kept from falling, but its familiar blue, darkened by the memories of his painful past.
Still seeing that uncertainty in Deeks' eyes, Kensi decided to throw a hail mary. "The Squid and the Dagger is not even the type of bar your dad would have frequented. I have the feeling he might have even hated it." Kensi continued to pile her arguments, still hoping the conviction and certainty in her words would help Deeks as much as the meaning behind them. "Plus, it's been a couple years already and we have never even had a fight or incident at the bar."
Deeks chuckled but before he could say anything Kensi beat him to it. "And Callen and Arkady playing pool doesn't count. The game just got a little heated." Deeks' raised eyebrows had been a total giveaway about where his mind had gone and nobody knew him better than Kensi.
"Too bad Callen and Arkady alone can't keep the bar afloat. Maybe if Hetty and Anna joined them. But who knows where they are now." Deeks shrugged sadly, tears still pricking at the corner of his eyes.
"We're coming off a bad year, baby. Stay at home orders sure did a number on the bar, but that's behind us now. Things will only get better from here." Deeks' attempt at a joke was a good sign but Kensi wasn't ready for teasing just yet. She knew Deeks always resorted to humor when talks got too personal, even when things still bothered him, and she was determined to avoid that today.
"And, you're definitely right. Brandel would have really hated The Squid and the Dagger. He wasn't really into the ocean aesthetics and our decorations surely wouldn't have been to his taste." Deeks went right over Kensi's last statement, drawing comfort from the realization her words brought him and choosing to focus on that lighthearted part of her arguments.
"Deeks," Kensi started, in a confident but soft tone, "come on, baby. You know I'm right about more than just that. You will never be like him, regardless of what happens with LAPD. You can always find a new purpose, be it with NCIS as an agent, again in the law, or something else entirely. What matters is not the job you do, but what's inside... the strength of your character, and you never have to worry about that." Kensi tried again, hoping to get Deeks to open up a little more before his perfectly constructed mask was back in its place.
Deeks nodded with a tearful smile, a single tear sliding down his face. This time, it was not for his father, but in gratitude for the woman sitting beside him. So this one time, he let it roll. Hoping it would also take with it the memories of Brandel that had just resurfaced. "Thanks, Kens. And that's only one reason why I love you. Your trust in me means more than I could say."
"And don't ever forget it," Kensi said proudly, pulling Deeks towards her and giving him another hug. Because sometimes that's all a man needed. "And for whatever it's worth, our bar will never be a symbol of your father or the awful things he did to you and Roberta. Things are tough this year, but the Squid will resurface." Kensi wished she could promise that it would, but this year had shown them that life was even more unpredictable than they thought and sometimes shit just happened. And you couldn't do anything about it, only hope that life would eventually get better and the good shoe would drop to balance it all out.
"Too bad we didn't name it The Phoenix and the Dagger, or we could have said the bar would be reborn from its metaphorical ashes." Deeks corrected with a chuckle, the familiar spark in his eyes returning as the morning light reflected off his unshed tears.
"Yeah, too bad," Kensi quipped sarcastically. "I knew I shouldn't have let you watch that Harry Potter marathon. That sounds like a name straight out of a Rowling's book."
"Oh, Harry Potter. Maybe we should add trivia night to the bar. I'm sure Brandel would have hated that too," Deeks proposed with fake enthusiasm, but a very real new purpose to turn his bar into everything Brandel wasn't. "Maybe Callen and Arkady would like it too… that way we can avoid any more pool incidents," he added with a slight grimace.
"I'm sure Callen and Arkady would manage to turn even trivia into a bar brawl. Maybe we just need to find Anna so she can keep her boys in line," Kensi shot back, deciding progress enough had been made and now she could lighten up and banter with Deeks. At least she now knew what was up in Deeks' mind so she could keep an eye on him and any more signs of his old demons making a return.
"Anna would probably join them and cause even greater havoc," Deeks said matter-of-factly. He then pulled Kensi towards him and kissed her passionately.
"What was that for?" Kensi asked, when they parted for breath.
"To say thank you, for everything," Deeks breathed out, pulling Kensi all the way towards him and deepening the kiss.
"Whoa there cowboy. Slow your roll. Time to get dressed and go for that Christmas tree," Kensi cut in, when his movements had become more intense and exploratory.
"We already waited a week, I'm sure we can wait one more day," Deeks said with a shrug, his hands already beginning to lift the hem of Kensi's shirt.
Looking directly at Deeks, Kensi could still see the glistening of tears in his eyes. But instead, she decided to focus on the hunger and love reflected in there too. Every word she had said was something she now believed to her core, and even if it had taken her a long time to realize it, she now knew that NCIS, or the LAPD for that matter, were not, and had never been, their home. They had only been a pathway to each other. And they were together now, so where they worked didn't really matter. Whatever happened, they would be okay.
So, letting her resolve crumble, Kensi took Deeks' hand and let herself be pulled towards their bed, lips crashing, and only parting for a moment so Kensi could move her hands to either side of Deeks' face to softly wipe any remaining tears from his eyes. With that done, Kensi gave in happily, letting her shirt be lifted as she began her own exploration of Deeks' body.
2020 had been a year to forget, but they hoped 2021 would be one to remember, starting with this very moment, and whenever that was done, with the two of them going together to buy the prettiest tree in the lot.
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