#gots one leg used as a kickstand

[lobsterplush]

Isopodtober #7: Wheel

[miniimight]

I need more dad Sukuna and mom reader fics / headcsnons, I love the way you wrote for them!!

hey anon thank you! i'm thinking about making this a series, if you guys have any ideas/requests/prompts lmk <3

PICKING UP BABY FROM SCHOOL oops, toddlers can't ride motorcyles! (dad!sukuna x mom!reader)

sukuna rolled up about twenty minutes before his daughter's school got out, deploying the kickstand of his pitch black motorcycle against the rainbow colored fencing. he pulled off his helmet, sighing deeply when he met fresh air again.

his phone buzzed against his thigh. he pulled it out of his tight cargo pocket, answering immediately when he saw your caller ID. "hey, doll."

"you got there okay?" you asked.

"mhm."

"and you're on the right side of the building? that's where her class comes out."

"mhm."

"great." you exhaled. "m'sorry i couldn't make it this time—"

"stop." he says gruffly, his phone between his shoulder and ear as he pulls off his gloves. "what are you sorry for, silly girl? you're sick and should rest."

he doesn't mind anything when it comes to his two girls, not the fifteen minute commute to her school or the half hour of waiting just to get a parking spot nice and close to the doors.

your laugh was warbled over the phone. "at least the car is air conditioned. it's been getting warmer lately."

"..." he looked down at his bike.

"ryo, baby?" you hummed.

"hm?"

"you did take the car, right?"

"..."

his silence was all you needed to hear. he tuned out your worried rambling about how the hell is your daughter going to get home on that thing in order to process. toddlers don't usually use motorcycles as a mode of transportation... and he should've thought of this before!

"it'd be fine if i had an extra seat." he mused, debating on how he could manage this situation without having to call you to get them.

"an extra seat?! not even an extra helmet?" you shrieked. "baby, i swear, if you're actually thinking about driving with my baby girl on that thing—"

"relax, doll," he grumbled, pushing down the traces of embarrassment burning at his ears. "the brat will be fine, s'just a couple blocks away. she can handle the wind."

"..."

the bell rang and the doors swung open, children pouring out of the hallway and buzzing around in search of their parents.

"she's out, we'll see you soon." he was about to hang up when he heard,

"i'm literally about to come get you, do NOT go anywhere."

he frowns, his eyes scouring the crowd of midgets for his kid. he didn't mean to make you so upset and worried. he just... overlooked important details sometimes. not his fault, he's trying his best :(

"y/n, you will sit your ass down in bed. when i come home, you better be laying down exactly how i left you." he warned. he heard your breath hitch. "you trust me, don't you, baby?"

"yes... unfortunately."

he nodded. "we'll be home soon."

"in one piece?"

he rolled his eyes, grumbling. "yes, woman."

"hm." you huffed and hung up.

he strolled into the compound. as soon as he saw those pretty eyes that creased happily when they landed on him, he smiled and crouched down.

she ran over to him, her backpack jostling behind her. she held up a painting she made. "daddy, look!"

"i see." he pulled her closer, holding the backpack off her back and letting her walk off it. he slung the bedazzled bratz backpack over his shoulder, lifting her up in his arms. "what is it?"

"for mama."

"oh. all your crafts seem to be for mama. still nothing for me." he complained with a drawn out sigh.

she rolled her eyes, and he swore he was looking at you for a second.

"don't roll your eyes at me, brat." he scoffed. "who the hell even taught you that?" he muttered under his breath.

sukuna finally stopped in front of his bike. her eyes lit up as her legs started to kick in excitement. she's only ever seen daddy ride off on this thing, now she gets to ride with him?

he swung his leg over the bike, ignoring the mix of distasteful and flirtatious looks thrown at him. "okay, kid." he exhaled, shrugging off his jacket and holding it up to her. "gotta put this on."

she turned up her nose. "stinky."

his jaw dropped open. "i showered before i came to wait half an hour for you, chubby brat. the hell do you think you're talking to?"

she looked at him as if it were obvious.

"you'll put this on now. give me mama's painting, i'll put it in your bag." he said gruffly yet gently slid the painting into her backpack with the utmost care.

the jacket drowned her, the sleeves near triple the length of her arms. sukuna zipped her up and put the helmet on her head.

she started to whine. "stinky." she wailed.

"hush." he hissed, slapping some shades on and holding her towards her chest firmly. with her protected as best as he could with what he had, and with the jeweled backpack strapped to his back, he began to roll out into the road.

that drive home was the longest thirty minutes of his life. he had never drove so slow before.

you were waiting by the front door, running down to meet them as your husband pulled into the driveway.

"oh my god oh my god," you ripped your baby from his arms, tossing the helmet off her head. "are you okay, baby?" you smoothed away the sweaty hair from her face, your lips pursing when you hear her sniffles.

"my poor baby. daddy's never gonna pick you up again, don't you worry." you peppered her face with kisses.

sukuna caught the helmet before it crashed to the ground, walking behind you with his hands in his pockets. he kissed your temple as he leaned over your shoulder to peer down at his daughter. "daddy didn't do so bad."

you glare at him, cradling your daughter's head against your chest. you whirl away and storm into the house.

he sighed.

after many apologetic kisses and a good amount of groveling, you let him do pick-ups and drop-offs again. though you made sure to watch him get into the car before he drove off.

© miniimight ! thanks for reading <3

[mattslolita]

biker!matt teaching reader how to ride his motorcycle 🤭

⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧ ‧₊˚ ⋅⋅˚₊‧ ୨୧

"'alright doll, s'not so hard, jus' listen to what i tell you to do."

you nodded as you watched matt intently, his ringed hands moving to remove the leather jacket from around him — he shifts the toothpick in his mouth to the other side as he drapes his jacket around you. you put your arms through the sleeves, pulling the jacket tight on you as matt hums his approval.

"c'mere," he mumbles to you, grabbing your waist as he guides you towards his bike.

the shiny black motorized vehicle sits pretty and shiny before you, and you can't help but marvel at it ( as if you haven't seen it a million times ).

"now jus' get on," matt instructs you, and you nod.

a gulp rides down your throat as matt steadies you with one hand on your back whilst you throw one of your legs over the other side of the bike, then placing yourself on the designated seat. it feels weird to be the one in control of the bike as you put your hands on both handles immediately. the helmet that sits on the handle looks inviting, so you put it on quickly. matt's eyes rove around your body shamelessly, feeling an oncoming boner start to emerge upon seeing you about to ride his bike.

"doin' so good already," he praises you, tucking a braid behind your ear which causes you to giggle nervously as his breath fans over your neck, "now turn it on."

there's seemingly a double meaning behind his words, yet you pay no mind as you put the key in the ignition. it roars the life which startles you for a minute, but you quickly snap back into focus as you grin slightly.

without being told, matt watches in shock as you put the kickstand back in its place ( of course, you knew to do that from the many times you've watched him ), then you put the heels of your shoes on the padding.

"can i take off now?" you ask him, biting down on your lip with anticipation.

matt swirls the toothpick in his mouth before crossing his arms across his chest as he nods at you. "g'head doll, show me what ya got."

you didn't need to be told twice — you started off slow, the bike moving at a slow pace as you slightly press the throttle down with your right hand. as you get used to the pace, a sudden pride takes over you as you mash down on the throttle causing the bike to speed up.

you zip across the parking lot quickly, shocking you slightly as you let a grin spread across your face as you learn to control the bike. almost as quickly as you left, you came strolling up to matt who waits for you patiently — you put the kickstand up, and climb off the bike, taking the helmet off after.

"how did i do?" you ask matt, running a hand through your braids as he stares down at you hungrily.

"didn't know you ridin' my bike could turn me on so fuckin' much."

[thisreadswhatever]

Only Mine: Part Two

find part one here

[description]: jax teller x fem!reader

[wordcount]: 2.2k

[cw]: 18+ only, smut, smut and more smut. unprotected p in v sex, oral m receiving, some almost getting caught tropes (kinda) and just jax having his way with you

[authors note]: so I wasn’t planning on making this a two part series but here we are! this is basically just pure smut but I owed it to you guys after that cliffhanger. thank you again to THAT anon for the fantasy that inspired this second part! it was too good not to write.

Your hands dug into the front of his leather cutte, weaving your fingers in between the cotton of his shirt. The only sound was the roaring of the bike beneath you, and the wind as it thrashed your hair into chaos against your helmet. You weren’t sure where you were going, but at this point you didn’t care. You squeezed your arms as they wrapped snug around him, tightening as he sped faster into the unknown.

Chibs followed just behind. They had been on their way to a Mayan warehouse earlier that night, before Jax decided to make a detour when he saw your car parked at the bar. When it was clear they had to go, you had begged Jax to bring you along. To your surprise, you had somehow convinced him. His dick was clouding his judgement, but you were both desperate to find an end to what you had started in the backseat of your car.

They parked the bikes in the back of a desolate warehouse, alongside a large empty truck. The building was fenced in with metal chain links and surrounded by broken security lights. From what you could see through the darkness, it was completely deserted.

Jax approached Chib as he rocked the kickstand on his bike as you waited patiently alongside his.

“Bobby and Juice on their way to the Clubhouse?”

Chib’s placed his helmet on the bike, “aye. Everything according to plan.”

“Alright, let’s get this done.”

Chibs placed his hand on Jax’s chest, “ye sure about bringing her? Could be here awhile pal.”

He knew he was right, bringing you with them wasn’t the smartest decision Jax had made tonight. He lit a cigarette between his lips as he walked back to you, “Just a straight forward drop off, Chibs. Stash the shit and get in the truck.”

Jax pulled you into him by the waist as you fumbled to undo the clasp of your helmet. His mouth pressed firmly against you, kissing you intently as his hands held your face to his. He watched you for a brief moment under him, your eyes staring up at him as he held your lip between his teeth. He broke only to smile widely down at you as he spoke, “c’mon, I got an idea.”

“We’ll be inside.” he called out, collecting a black satchel from the back of his bike. Chibs didn’t respond, only chuckling to himself as he watched Jax lead you away. “Kids.”

He pulled you through the warehouse by hand, obviously familiar with the surroundings. The building was dimly lit by a single light that shined from the entrance, just enough that you could see your feet beneath you as you walked.

You didn’t ask questions, just followed as he weaved his way through a thick maze of tall empty shelving units. He gripped your hand tighter as he pulled you into a small room cordoned off in the back of the building, housing the now derelict security unit and remnants of old office supplies.

There was a large display window that overlooked the majority of the warehouse, which would’ve been used to watch the ongoings of the building when it was up and running.

“Wait here.”

You obeyed his order, sitting on an old computer console that towered from the floor. It was just large enough that you could sit with your legs bent alongside it, straddling it beneath you.

The distant light was too far to aid in your sight as you attempted to watch him through the display window. Jax disappeared into the darkness of the warehouse. You could hear the sound of a door opening and closing from the opposite end of the building.

It felt like he was gone for eternity as you sat in silence, waiting for his return.

Suddenly an external door into the office opened, making you jump, and Jax re-entered, this time empty handed as the satchel he carried in with him was gone. He locked the door behind him. He moved toward you, now standing with his waistline parallel to your face. He was looking out into the warehouse from the side of the display window. “Just gotta wait for the pick up and then we’re out of here.”

“How long will we be? This place gives me the creeps.”

“Shouldn’t be long. Then I’m taking you home. We got unfinished buisness of our own, darlin’.”

Jax laid his hands to your cheeks, cupping your face upward to look at him. His thumb stroked your skin gently, as he peered down at you with hungry, desperate eyes.

“How ‘bout you just swallow my cock now to pass the time.”

You chuckled at his adavance, raising your eyebrows at the suggestion. “Here? What if someone comes in?”

Jax lowered himself down, forcing your head to turn on its side, as his lips pressed to your ear. He spoke slowly, unravelling you with every word. “Let them watch. I don’t give a shit. Your instructions earlier were very clear darlin’, you told me to take what’s mine. I’m going to take you, here and now. I’m going to have you where I want you, when I want you. You are mine to take, however the fuck I want.”

You nodded as he turned your face to his, your eyelids batting against your cheeks that were smushed beneath his hands. His thumb found entry between your lips and you instinctively opened your mouth wide for him. He smiled contently at how quickly you obeyed his silent demand. You held your tongue out, and he grasped at your jaw in response, turning your head side to side as he observed every inch of your face. “You are so fucking perfect. So fucking mine.”

You had never wanted him more than you did in this moment. You were prepared to beg and plead on your knees for his cock, you would do anything for it, and he knew it.

“Fill my mouth, Jax. Please.”

He leaned down to you as he unclamped the buckle to his belt, smirking against your lips as he placed them on yours.

He released his long length against your face, and you immediately took it into your hands. His head fell back as you stroked him intently, pressing the tip of his cock against your lips. You planted small, wet kisses against his shaft, as your hands caressed his erection. Once you’d kissed every inch, you took him into your mouth, forcing him in deeper as you pulled him in you by his unbuttoned jeans.

He groaned at the sensation of your wet tongue, circling his length before you choked at the fullness of him inside your mouth. There was nothing quite like gagging on Jax’s cock.

“Look at me when you take me”, he demanded. Your eyes trailed up to him as you swallowed his cock, drool dripping from your chin and down your neck. Moans escaped his gritted teeth and his hands entangled in your hair, collecting the strands into a ponytail behind your head. He tugged at the root to push you in closer, as he used your mouth over and over again.

“Get on the floor.”

You knew better than to question the order. You did exactly what he said, laying against the cold concrete floor that laid beneath you. He stroked his length as he stood above you, instructing you on every move to make.

“Take off your shirt and lay down.”

Once you were half naked on the floor, Jax lowered himself into you. His cock pressed against your waist, as he pulled down your jeans and panties.

“Spread your legs wide for me.”

Jax didn’t wait any longer. He encapsulated himself into your mound, opening your wet folds as he thrusted into you. A gasp escaped your throat as he entered, relief filtering through every inch of your core.

“Oh you’re still fucking soaked for me, babe.”

You couldn’t help but whine at the immediate pressure building between your thighs, desperately trying to hush your voice. It was near impossible to keep from screaming as the heat from your groin was burning to be released. You’d waited for what felt like forever since Jax had you in the same position in the backseat of your car, and the anticipation of being relieved was a feeling you revelled in. He grabbed your throat with his hand as you laid beneath him, your ass crushing repeatedly into the cold tile as he pounded into you.

“Remember what I told you earlier? While my face was covered in this perfect pussy?”

You couldn’t respond, let alone think of anything that happened earlier tonight. You groaned out as the length of his cock engulfed your insides, and hearing him talk this way was sending you over the edge. How the hell were you supposed to think?

“What’s wrong, darlin’? Can’t remember?”

“I can’t think straight- like t-this, Jax,” you admitted. You were staring into his eyes as he pounded into you, fighting the need for yours to roll in the back of your head.

“Let me help you.”

He sat you upright, his dick still embedded in your mound, as he lifted your legs, bending them against him. He pulled at your ass, bringing himself even further inside, the feeling of fullness overwhelming you. Your back was now arched against him, giving him full access to your clit.

“Fuck- not helping-“, you cried.

His hands travelled from your ass to your cunt, circling his fingers over the swollen nub, while he fucked you into oblivion.

“Jax- oh my go-“

He smiled as he watched you lose yourself in your climax, succumbing to his cock. His head fell back in pure bliss as he felt your orgasm squeezing him.

“I told you, you’re mine.” His cock pushed further into you as his hand tightening around your neck, the skin turning a shade of red at the force.

Your head nodded violently, “I’m yours-“ you somehow managed to muster out, your voice cracking under the pressure of your orgasm and his hand around your throat.

Just as Jax was going to unravel with you, you were interrupted by the sound of the main entrance door opening, followed by footsteps. “Did you hear that?”, you whispered.

Jax leant backward enough for him to peer over the display window. It took a moment for his eyes to adjust to the darkness to realise who the intruders were. It was Bobby and Juice.

“Is it Chibs? Do we need to go?”

Jax looked back down at you, sprawled half naked against the floor and completely, totally his. Seeing you this way, he couldn’t of cared who entered the warehouse, he was going to finish claiming you no matter who watched. He gleamed at the sight of your flushed pink cheeks and hair utterly strung awry, all the result of his doing. “Oh no, darlin’. I’m not finished with you yet.”

His cock found your entrance again, sliding into your dripping mound as he bit back a groan. “You feel so fucking good- taking me so well-“

You tried desperately to suppress your scream, failing as a squeal slipped through your lips.

Jax quickly placed his hand over your mouth, and you were thankful for the aid in silencing your whimpers. He roamed over your body and face, watching as pleas left your eyes, begging in desperation for another release. His lips pulled into a devilish smirk as he lowered himself completely into you, forcing his cock to push even deeper into your mound.

You groaned into his hand, his hips finding a way to submerge even further into your core. Jax was enjoying every moment of this, watching as your composure expired around his cock, while he never wavered, just holding himself there within you.

“You gotta be quiet for me now, darlin’,” he murmured slowly into your ear. “Can you do that for me?”

You nodded at his request, struggling to move from the weight of his body pressing against you. His hand tightened around your mouth as tears began to stream from your eyes, overwhelmed by the urge to stay silent against the extreme fullness you were enduring.

The footsteps grew closer, as Jax pushed deeper and deeper into you with each thrust.

You could hear Bobby lowly calling out, “Jax, where you at?”

He ignored his calls, focused entirely on you beneath him. Nothing else mattered to him but the way you felt wrapped around his cock.

He was relentless, repeatedly finding a new depth with each thrust into you. His hand stayed out against your mouth, and you bit at the skin to suppress the groans that couldn’t be muffled. He quickened his pace, and your fingers squeezed at the leather of his cutte as you found your final climax. Jax hunched his back, bringing his face to yours as he found his release with you, filling your aching cunt with his seed.

When he recovered from his end, he began to trail plentiful kisses from your chest, and up your neck. He paused at your jawline as he pressed a tight smile against your skin, nibbling at the flesh.

“You’re only mine.”

find my masterlist here

[slutforsilverfoxes]

What Happens in New York…

You took in a deep breath as soon as you crossed through the back door of the restaurant and into the parking lot, arms outstretched while you enjoyed the brisk New York air, and declared, “I gotta get me a new job.”

“What?” Sean, your best friend and roommate of several years, taunted from behind you, making up for your head start in a few long strides. “Waiting on rich people not cutting it for you anymore?”

“Waiting on rich, crusty old white men and their wives who seem to drop in age each year isn’t cutting it anymore,” you corrected his statement. “Now gimme that helmet,” you demanded with grabby fingers. “I wanna go home, watch Marvel movies, and finish that bottle of wine we opened on Monday.”

“Speaking of old white men,” the blonde started with a laugh, tossing you your helmet before sitting astride his motorcycle and strapping his own on, “my brother’s in town. Mind if I stop by to say hi?”

“Ah, yes, the G-man,” you nodded all-knowingly, tucking your legs up under you and getting settled behind Sean’s lithe body. “Is he seeing anyone?” Sean purposefully revved the bike and pretended like he couldn’t hear you, so you tapped aggressively on his visor until he turned to give you the stink eye. “I said is he seeing anyone, you dick?”

“What’s it to you, huh?”

“Well, the way you describe him, he’s probably got a nice pension and benefits going with all the hours he works. I could make a cute housewife!”

“Funny,” your best friend deadpanned. He used his foot to raise the kickstand before guiding the bike out to the main road. “Too bad for him, ‘cause you’re my cute housewife.”

“Gross.”

His ensuing laughter got lost in the New York traffic.

—————

“Do you wanna come in with me?” Sean asked as you hopped off the bike and stretched your legs outside of the precinct.

“Nah,” you shook your head in response and pulled out your phone. “You go ahead and see big bro. I’m taking full advantage of my allotted yard time.”

The blonde rolled his eyes and pressed a kiss to your forehead. “You’re a riot. Be back soon.”

“Don’t get in a fight,” you called out lazily amid a yawn, breathing in the cold winter air to ward off your exhaustion.

Several minutes later, you were scrolling idly through your phone while you waited for your friend, leaning against his bike for support and stifling yet another yawn when the hairs at the nape of your neck stood at attention, and you suddenly felt the clarity of alertness.

“Hey there,” a voice called out from nearby, and you studiously ignored the lackluster greeting. It was followed by a whistle that was evidently supposed to woo you, and you resisted the urge to roll your eyes, stuffing one hand into your pocket and letting out a disgruntled noise when you weren’t rewarded by your headphones. “This your bike, little lady?”

“Why, you in the market?” you barked back, finally raising your gaze to meet that of an NYPD officer.

“Maybe I am,” he responded with a smile that set you even more on edge. “Wanna take me for a test ride?” His buddy behind him laughed at the innuendo, and this time you did roll your eyes.

“Hard pass.”

“C’mon, baby, you look like you could use some fun in your life,” he continued, and when he took a step closer, your hackles rose. Deciding that my best friend’s brother is an FBI agent wasn’t going to cut it, you answered coolly, “My boyfriend’s an FBI agent working in your office up there, and I don’t think he’d take kindly to you propositioning me outside your precinct. Honor and integrity and all that, right?” You forced your mouth into a smile that dropped when the officer removed the badge pinned to his jacket.

“I’m off the clock, sweetheart. And I don’t see your boyfriend anywhere.”

“Turn around.”

The rumble of an unfamiliar voice had you looking over the officer’s head to find the frowning visage of a handsome brunette with striking features. Sean came to your side protectively, murmuring, “Hey, you okay?” as the officer turned to look up at the imposing older Hotchner and stammered, “I’m- I’m sorry, I didn’t know she was with you.”

The brunette tilted his head to one side and narrowed his eyes, and the air around him positively crackled with power. Quietly, he challenged, “And why should that matter?” As the officer opened and closed his mouth like a fish out of water, he took a step closer and dropped his voice even lower. “Go home to your wife, Officer-” His eyes darted over to the name tag before continuing, “-McNally, and be ready for a disciplinary hearing at some point this week, because I will be speaking to your supervisor directly.”

He nodded deferentially, refusing to make eye contact, and tried to scurry away, but Sean’s older brother barked, “Officer McNally! Isn’t there something you’d like to say to my girlfriend?”

“Sorry!” he called sheepishly, heat rising to his cheeks despite the chill outside. “Sorry, ma’am, won’t happen again.”

Sean and his brother watched until the officer and his friend had turned the corner, then directed their attention to you. “I hope that wasn’t your introduction to New York’s finest,” the older Hotchner remarked with a frown, holding his hand out to you. “I’m Aaron. Your boyfriend, apparently,” he tacked on, lips twitching to fight a smile.

A blush crept across your cheeks as you took his hand. “Y/N, Sean’s best friend. Sorry about all…that,” you said through a laugh, gesturing broadly at the scene that had just taken place.

“Please don’t apologize. It’s nice to be name dropped for a good reason,” Aaron responded warmly, this time allowing his mouth to turn upward in a genuine smile. Sean coughed pointedly beside you and you hurried to pull your hand from his brother’s grip, your face growing even warmer at the realization you’d been standing there holding his hand for several seconds like an absolute buffoon.

“Home, Sean- we should- gotta go,” you stammered out, wincing at your brain literally short circuiting from a single touch.

“Wow,” Sean breathed out through a laugh. “You actually broke her, Aaron.” Turning to you, he faux-whispered, “So you really do have a thing for older guys?”

“Woah, hey!” You yell to be heard through laughter in the present. “You did not say that,” you call your best friend on his bullshit, pointing a fork threateningly in his direction. Aaron gently lowers your wrist as you continue, “And I wasn’t that awestruck, okay? He was handsome, but I wasn’t like, drooling, guys, c’mon-”

“Maybe just a little,” your fiancé teases, eyes widening playfully when you turn the silverware on him next.

“Derek.” You turn to Aaron’s friend and declare, “You’re getting upgraded to best man and young Hotchner over there is being relegated to flower girl.”

Sean winks at you from his temporary spot on the floor where he’s regaling your friends and families with the story of how he introduced you two- at least, his version of the story. “Just so you know, I happen to look cute in a dress.”

“Have some more champagne, honey,” Aaron instructs with a smile as he refills your flute. You dutifully take a sip and mumble around the glass, “You’re not giving this speech tomorrow, Sean.”

“Speech?” Your best friend barks out a laugh, and you narrow your eyes at him in suspicion. “Baby girl, I’ve got a whole PowerPoint documenting your journey into the family, don’t you worry. Pictures and everything.”

“Aaron,” you whine. “Make it stop.”

“You really know how to pick ‘em,” Aaron laughs before pressing a kiss to your pouting lips.

“Clearly,” you grumble. “You Hotchner men will be the death of me.”

—————

[A/N: Why did I write this? Who’s to say? I love a lil brother vibe, might have to explore more of Sean’s bff as Aaron’s girl 👀 Hope somebody enjoyed this crack]

AH tags 🖤 @gothwifehotchner

[monstrousmuse]

*rubs hands together* Right. We're doing this.

or, My Very Serious Attempt At Analysing The Billentines.

"BILL YOU GO OUT WITH ME?" - Gods, he's even worse than Stan. Jack of NO Trades, Master of PUN. (Not the actual intent here, but if you add a comma, it almost sounds like someone else is asking him out. In cute-sy speak. "Bill, you go out with me?!?! Pwease?")

"I'VE GOT MY ❤️EYE❤️ ON YOU" - Aww, his eye is so expressive. Also love the way he's just... sitting on the ground like that. His base is so thin, it's no wonder why he needs to prop himself up with his little noodle leg. Like a reverse kickstand.

"YOU'RE ACUTE-Y" - Bill torments his friends with terrible, nerdy geometry puns Confirmed. Stanford Filbrick Pines PhD x 12's dream partner amiright？

"I LIKE YOU FOR SOME REASON" - *apologetically glances towards Ford* What reason, Bill? You can confide in us. Or perhaps you don't know...

"LET'S GET ILLUMINAUGHTY" - HE REMOVED HIS BOWTIE WTF-I-I didn't even think that was possible. Welp, you learn something new every day. ...And, are those his cheeks? I’ve always assumed that his whole surface changes colour whenever he is feeling a particularly strong emotion. Huh.

"I'M BROKEN. WANNA FIX ME?" - ...now you're just mocking us. If this ends up spreading to the wider fandom- Oh. Oh dear. It already has. Well played, Hirsch. In all seriousness though, this one is surprisingly introspective of Bill. Has he been doing some postmortem soul-searching? Read a few self-help books? Perhaps Frills was the one who first suggested that he write his own book as a means of reaching a state of inner catharsis...Or maybe it’s just a reference to how Stan literally shattered his face before killing him.

"I DON'T WANT TO DIE ALONE" - See my previous post. Long story short, he stopped time for a reason. But. Also. He looks depressed. No offence, of course. (Is the floor comfortable? From data gathered during the period of my life that I spent as a Weird Human Child With Weird Human Quirks, I have come to the conclusion that the floor is not, in fact, the most comfortable of places to lie down and ponder one’s existence, but you do you I guess.)

"I SECRETLY COLLECTED YOUR SWEAT IN A JAR AND ACCORDING TO EXTENSIVE LAB TESTING. WE HAVE AN 88.3% PHEROMONE COMPATIBILITY MATCH" - Bill has pheromones. 88.3%...Is there a significance to this number? Does Bill Cipher even know, or care, about basic lab safety and scientific accuracy these days? The answer is a resounding “No. Definitely not. Absolutely not.”

"THEY CALL ME...THE LOVE TRIANGLE" - How To Become Besties With Mabel Pines In One (1) Quick & Easy Step. But you better watch out Bill, the Love God will probably be filing a lawsuit against you for Stealing His Look...and a minor case of Very Intentional And Blasphemous Blasphemy.

…

Whew. Done. Overanalysis is to me what Ichor is to the Greek Gods.

[copperbezel]

Zephyr Slip

At the end of last year, before I'd begun working on Bit Cobalt, I ran into some paleoart of Austroraptor, a dromaeosaur (raptor) from Argentina. Austroraptor is one of the largest dromaeosaurs, with a long, narrow, Big Bird snoot, conical teeth that probably point to fishing, and small forelimbs, as well as leg proportions that hint at a runner. Much of the paleoart I saw depicted Austroraptor in waterbird colors, which gave it a soft and friendly appearance, immediately my new favorite dinosaur.

So I drew an Austroraptor and then a robotic one, adding a quail topknot or ahoge feather, and started to think about making a transforming figure that would change from this animal into a humanoid robot. But a transformation from cute robot girl to cute robot girl, except one of them is a dinosaur, seemed a bit redundant, and there would be compromises in both directions that would detract rather than add.

But a couple of months later, I saw a particular motor scooter and something clicked, and the game was on. I love motor scooters, and they're a fantastic accessory for other figures on the shelf. I went through two foamcore prototypes to nail down the transformation, making it as simple and sturdy as I could manage and making sure both modes would scale well with other 1/12 scale figures.

I also started collecting some reference images for details I could nab and integrate, and to nail down the scaling of the scooter.

After I had something that worked, I drew up some concept art for both modes and started modeling. I was able to streamline the design a couple of steps further in the 3D model, and then it was all carving up shapes, fine tuning, etc. Probably the longest phase of modeling was after I had my model roughed out into shape, but needed to build the joints, firm up the edges, define all the contact surfaces, and apply subdivision surfaces. I found it useful to rig the model and set a couple of animation steps in Blender for the two modes so I could simply page back and forth between them.

I had to set the design on the back burner while I worked out the kinks with my 3D printer and built my last couple of projects. Then I made a test print to identify any trouble spots, and after a couple of tweaks to get the feel right, it was time to print and finish the real thing. Zephyr Slip is the first thing I've printed in "color", and thanks to some dyes I need to experiment with more, she won't be the last. That means a much more durable finish for parts that have to slide against one another or clip into place. I did add a gloss coat to some surfaces of the black elements, but it shouldn't show chipping much. (Unlike the kickstand, thanks to my terrible decision to paint its feet.)

Like my previous figures, Zephyr's eyes (and console) are just printed gloss paper under a coat of gloss varnish, and her headlights and taillights have some clear resin poured in over the paint and cured into place for lenses.  Cutting plastic windows like the ones on my Vertigo GT for the lower headlights didn't have the same effect, so they got the same clear resin treatment. The decal designs themselves were made in Blender, because I've given up on Inkscape's interface, but I think they came out okay.

The joints are almost exclusively 3mm ABS rods, although her hip joints are Kotobukiya Hexa Gear joints, which gave me a sturdy pin and hinge in a compact package and without visible pegs. I'm looking into options to make the pegs show less while being easy to remove for the construction and painting process. Despite some care with the tolerances, I did have to widen some peg holes and mush some pegs during assembly to get her pose well and snap together tight into either mode. But everything does clip solidly into place, resulting in a really playable figure. 

As my first fully transforming figure and also my largest, Zephyr Slip is definitely the biggest figure project I've tackled so far, and I'm extremely happy with the results. Posability is probably her weakest area, but she can pounce and emote, and with her solid handfeel and satisfyingly snappy transformation, I'm happy with the design. 

Paleontologically, I've followed most of the proportions of the real animal, although her torso should be a little bit longer, and her tail half again as long. She should also have visible first fingers, and I'm playing into the paleoart meme of bare snouts on dromaeosaurs that shouldn't have them. The proportion of thigh to shin is exaggerated, and the tail should have some left-right sway even if it's inflexible in the vertical axis. But it pleases me that she is both a roughly accurately scaled Austroraptor, and also a fairly realistically scaled scooter (if a bit chunky).

As always, due credit to @aprilpowered and Workbenchmaniac for support and feedback along the way, as well as Nemocyte (Tumblr | Twitter), whose feedback helped me to work out (among other things) the articulation needs of a theropod figure, something I'd never had to think about before.

[xetlynn]

Twilight- The Switch of Daylight: Chapter Four, Fate

(Alice? X Reader X Jasper?)

[three] [four] [five]

The next day I wait. I wait until time passes to get to 8:30.

I actually go to school because of how long I had to wait. Bella decided to skip today.

Same with Charlie, he didn’t go into work to take care of Bella.

Angela comes up to me with a worry full expression. I smiled up at her as I was sitting at one of the lunch tables.

Obviously not eating but I’m chilling.

“I heard about what happened yesterday, are you and Bella okay?” She questions me. I shrug, taking a “breath” in.

“I’m okay, I just wasn’t feeling good yesterday. Bella on the other hand is going through something personal.” I answer her, not wanting to give out my sister’s personal information.

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear.” She sits down, taking out her lunch that she packed from home.

Then Mike and Jessica sit down with us as well. “Hey, where’s Swan sister number one?” Mike asks and Jessica slaps him.

“Dude, that might be a sensitive topic.” She widens her eyes.

“It’s okay.” I laugh.

“She’s at home resting.” I tell them.

“What about the Cullen’s?” He moves on quick from topic to topic.

“They moved, a family emergency.” I purse out my lips.

“Does that mean you broke up with them?” Jessica asks me, I glance over at her and she goes to apologize. “Um I guess so.” I shrug.

“I’m so sorry.” Angela rubs my back, I arch my back away from her touch out of reflex and she takes her hand back.

“What about Bella and Edward?” Mike hesitantly comments,

“That’s none of our business.” I hum, crossing my arms on the table. “True, true.” He plays it off.

The rest of the day I got asked if everyone in my house was okay, getting questioned left to right.

It made me remember why Bella hated small towns so much. How words spread so much.

No secrecy.

Well there’s a bit of secrecy.

Once that final bell rang I rushed to my bike, I forgot my helmet and I just wanted to get home before a cop questioned me and I get in trouble for not having one.

But of course nothing goes my way anymore and I get stopped by Angela and Jessica.

“Hold up, [Name]!” Jessica waves me down and I put my kickstand back down, turning my bike off.

“Yes, ma’am?” I try my best not to roll my eyes.

“Can you let Bella know we’re sorry for whatever happened and if she want’s to talk to us let her know.” Jessica grins, I stare her down for a moment before going to respond but Angela beats me.

“You too, please if you ever need us, don’t be scared to reach out.” She tells me and I nod.

“I’ll carry on the message.” I kick up the stand and before they can say anything else I turn the bike on and rush out of the parking lot.

Speeding home.

Getting home, I rush to kick up the stand and get inside.

And if you’re wondering why I’m rushing I don’t even have an answer.

I think I’m just antsy to speak with Sam after so long. I throw my keys on the kitchen table and go to my room but my dad stops me.

“Hey, hey, what’s the rush?” He stops me, I turn around with a smile and shrug my shoulders.

“I don’t know. Just want to write an email to mom.” I tell him, which isn’t a lie. I’ve been meaning to talk to her for a while.

“Well, how was school?” He pauses the tv and I straighten up.

“Oh you know, everyone asking why cops were on the look out for us yesterday.” I snicker, he sighs.

“Yeah I figured that was going to happen but I’m sure you calmed it down for when Bella goes whenever she feels up to it.” He was indirectly thanking me, I knew it but this feels enough for now.

“How has she been by the way?” I lean on one leg, hugging myself.

“She hasn’t come down. I tried giving her food but she won’t take that either.” He huffs aggressively.

“She’ll be okay, Dad. Her first serious boyfriend dumped her in the woods. I’ll keep a watch on her too.” I try to reassure him, going over and kissing the top of his head. He pats my arm as I do so.

“Gosh you’re freezing, go try to warm up.” He laughs, shivering himself. I smile, silently agreeing with him as I go into my room, shutting the door behind me.

As I put my stuff away I notice the letter that still laid on the ground, never moving from the place it originally fell.

I rolled my eyes, still not touching it.

I go to my laptop and I bring it onto my bed. I open it up to email Renee.

“Hey, mom, I’m sure you hear about what happened with Bella and I. I just wanted to let you know that I’m okay. I’m not exactly hurt by the Cullin’s leaving. Or well I’m trying to convince myself that. Right now I just want to be there for dad and Bella. ALSO!!! I’m meeting up with Sam ULEY tonight! Not for any weird reason. Just to catch up. I’m super excited and I hope we’re able to be friends. That’s all I really got to say. I hope all is well with you. I’m sorry for probably freaking you out with yesterday. I’m going to keep a watch on Bella and make sure she’s okay:). Love, your amazing youngest daughter<3”

I reread my email over and over again before pressing the send message.

Even after I sent it I reread it.

Smiling to myself about how at 8:30 I’m going to see my childhood crush. I shake my head from the thought knowing that I shouldn’t be thinking like that. I’m 17 and he’s 19.

My birthday is in ten months, right after Bella’s. It probably doesn’t matter to him though. Not even that, I’m locked into this vampire relationship even if it’s on a short little break up right now.

I’m sure they’re not going to like it if I go for a werewolf.

Glancing at the mirror in front of me I get up. I mean we haven’t talked in awhile, except for last night I might as well dress nicer.

He came to my volleyball games last year. Something I’m extremely grateful for, not many people came to those. He wasn’t there all the time but at least he showed up a little bit.

I changed into a black long sleeve and jeans that Alice had gotten for me.

I remember when she got them. Saying I needed some that didn’t have a bunch of holes in them.

I bite my lip at the memory before moving on and going to do my hair in a nicer way.

My laptop pinged, and I automatically knew it was my mom responding.

I quickly finished with what I was doing with my hair and swiped on the little mousepad to turn it back on. Reading my mom’s message.

It read:

“Hey, peach, I did hear:( Bella has been writing me as well. I’m glad you’re okay but if you ever need to vent or just get away you know I’m always a call away to make things happen!! And ohhhhh, I remember when you were obsessed with that young man. I know you just broke up with Jasper and Alice but get your mind off things and remember to have fun, my peachy girl. Keep me posted and also updated on everything! <3, Love you crazy amazing mother!!”

I grin and read it a few more times but instead of writing back I shut the laptop.

I’ll get to it later, after the little talk I have with Sam.

Thinking about it I should go check on Bella before I leave.

I make sure I look nice after added a few jewelry’s in. Then leaving my room to go up to Bella’s.

My dad was already asleep on the couch so I was sure to be quiet and careful to not wake him up.

I get to my sister’s room and knock before entering the room. She was on her laptop and I smiled softly.

“Hey,” I come up to her bed, she doesn’t glance up at me.

“Hi.” She mumbles quietly.

“I’m going out for the night, I’ll come back with some food?” I offer.

“I’ll probably be sleeping.” She tells me.

“If you don’t eat with dad I’ll have Jessica and Mike come over here tomorrow.” I warn her, leaving the room, closing the door gently.

Going down stairs I let out a heavy huff. I still had a few hours but I want to go for a drive, maybe meet up with Angela or something.

I ended up going to Alice, Jasper and I’s meet up spot that we did in the woods when we went hunting.

I sat against a fallen tree and thought about everything that has happened.

Even thought I’m using a lot of anger to cover up the fact that I’m really hurt it doesn’t change that fact that I now feel alone.

Especially with Bella being depressed as she is. I know she can’t control it but I don’t know how I’m going to watch out for her when I could go spiraling if this feeling gets heavier.

My emotions enhanced as a vampire as well. Everything I feel ten times enhanced as it was when I was a human.

God just saying that I’m a vampire is fucking weird.

Like I should be going to a mental hospital or something.

I guess that I should get going, seeing as the sun is going down.

I leave the trail and I get to my bike. I take one last look at the trail.

Wishing that I could’ve seen my two ex lovers there saying goodbye to me.

Knowing that I’m not going to get it I started my bike and sped off.

Entering the reservation I felt a different kind of environment.

I feel like I shouldn’t be here.

No matter how many times I was told I was welcomed to come.

Billy even saying I could even thought I guess my species is against theirs and their myths.

That really aren’t myths like I thought.

Going to the regular area that I’ve gone to growing up I wait for Sam to show up.

Leaning on the side of my bike. I checked the time on my watch, it says 8:34.

“[Name]! Sorry, I had to do something for Billy.” Sam calls, jogging up to me. I turn to see him, he actually has a shirt on this time.

“Hey, you’re good, don’t worry.” I wave it off, getting up from my bike and placing my helmet down.

“I wouldn’t have thought that you needed that anymore.” He points down to it.

“Well my dad doesn’t know so I kinda still have to pretend I’m human.” I pretend to take a deep breath in. He makes a face but lets out a laugh still.

“Right.” He glances around.

“Want to go someplace else?” He asks, I then notice some people staring as they walk past and I tense up.

“That sounds good.” I follow him once he starts walking. We go into the woods and as I want to question him the trees open up to the beach.

The sound of the waves hitting the sand becoming louder.

“I wanted to be able to talk without anyone hearing. Not everyone on the rez knows about this stuff.” He informs me and I let out a small “oh” in response.

I then look over his shoulder to see a fire already burning along with logs on the sand for little benches.

“This is what you had to do for Billy?” I tease him, he scoffs out a chuckle.

“You caught me.” We both sit down and I look around us, observing everything.

“I hate to start this so soon, but what turned you?” I already open my mouth, maybe I shouldn’t have has his face shows a little grimace to the question.

“Sorry, I just don’t understand anything anymore.” I run a hand through my hair, before crossing my arms in front of me, desperate for warmth that I don’t receive anymore.

Even with the fire my skin stays cold.

“It’s okay, it’s actually in my blood. We’re guessing with the Cullin’s here it turned us. Since there’s been years without vampires around there hasn’t been any wolves transforming either.” He explains.

I don’t say anything, staying quiet to listen to him.

“We were hoping they’d leave soon, but since you’re still here more are transforming.” He tells me truthfully, he doesn’t look me in the eyes when he speaks.

“Billy is hoping Jacob isn’t next, not wanting him to be apart of a mess he doesn’t need to deal with.” He adds.

I think back to little Jake, he should never have to deal with anything we do.

“I’m sorry.” I whisper, even over the sound of the waves and the fire crackling he heard me.

“You didn’t choose this.” He states.

“I didn’t but I should’ve left.” I stare at the fire. It was big, not even faltering.

“Charlie wouldn’t have been okay if you left.” Sam disagrees with me, “doesn’t matter, I’m still a danger.” I hum softly.

“You’re still [Name].” He stands up and I raise a brow.

“I don’t feel like her anymore.” I stay sitting, watching him come over to me and join me on the same log.

“I’m sure it takes time getting used to everything you have to.” He touches me arm, this time he doesn’t jolt to the cold feeling.

He’s warm, extremely warm. I enjoy it.

“How long did it take you, being a wolf and all?”

“I never did. I don’t know when I will I just know that it’s something apart of me that I can’t get rid of until I want to grow old.”

“Until you want to grow old?” I tilt my head, confused.

“Basically I can choose to not transform. I can just not do it and then it gets my body back on track to being a normal human. But if I choose to do that, I can’t transform ever again and I grow old and die.” He tells me, and I feel a pang of jealousy rise inside me. I wish I could just choose to be human again.

“Ah, if I want to die I have to have another vampire do it. Or just have someone or something decapitate me.” I joke, more to myself since it’s so morbid. “Oh, wow.” He comments.

“I know, so awesome.” I sarcastically say.

“Can I ask how’d you turn? Did the Cullin’s do it to you?” He changes the subject.

“Not exactly. It was this vampire James. I guess I’ve lived six other lives. I don’t know why. But if I turned into a vampire and I die, I’ll never live another life. James did it to me so I don’t come back. He wanted to turn me and then kill me and then I’m gone forever.” I let out a shaky breath. Thinking about how complicated it is it refreshes memories that I don’t want.

“Wait, multiple lives? Like reincarnation?” His hand finally leaves my arm and the coldness is back.

“Um, yeah.” I nod my head, confused on why it shocks him.

“Remember when Billy used to tell stories around the fire as kids?” He scoots away from me and turns me to look at him.

“Yeah, of course.” I furrow my eyebrows not understanding what he’s getting at.

“Billy used to talk about reincarnations. About how there’s only a few people that exist in the world that incarnate to be the same person with the same name and same looks. It’s a supernatural thing just like wolves and vampires.” He tries to remind me of the tale but for some reason it’s not clicking.

“It’s a type of goddess or god thing. I’m not saying you’re a goddess but it stems from it. Your soul won’t leave this earth until you become immortal.” He’s even thinking back to all the stories and still it’s not clicking in my head.

Even though I wish I could remember, Billy always had stories to tell from when we were kids and this one I don’t think was told very much.

“So basically I’ve done what my soul wanted? Do I not have a soul anymore?” I’m still confused.

“You do, but this version of you is what your soul has fought for. This was your fate.”

I shake my head.

“I don’t want this to be my fate.” I tell him.

“Fate is already written in the stars, I don’t think you ever had a choice.” He frowns.

This might be a long series only because of this movie right hereeee. New moon is gonna show a lotttttt.

[mc-lukanette]

Luka walked his bike towards the Liberty, ready to sit on his bed and meditate since he didn't have anything more to do that day. It wasn't a particularly stressful time, but school had just started up again and he was still getting used to it.

He was about to lift his bicycle to cross the gangplank when a voice called out, "Luka! Luka Couffaine?"

Turning to look over his shoulder, he spotted a girl around his age hurrying down the stairs to join him on the path next to the Seine. She hopped down the last two steps in her haste, Luka hitting his bike's kickstand with his heel so it could stand upright while he spoke to her about whatever he wanted.

He opened his mouth to confirm that he was indeed Luka and ask her what she wanted, but she'd already advanced on him. She gripped his arms, looking at him seriously as she asked, "Do you know who I am?"

He blinked, caught entirely off guard. He would naturally assume that someone who would step into his personal space and grab him like that must've known him, but he couldn't put a name to her face. He eyed her black hair, her blue eyes, and her white, black, and pink clothes, trying to put together anything at all. Maybe she was one of Juleka's friends?

His heart strangely skipped a beat as he took her in but, in the end, nothing came to him. Feeling somewhat guilty, he replied, "Sorry. I don't."

Rather than the disappointment he expected, she stepped back with a grin. Smacking her palms together, she turned her back to him and raised her fists in the air in triumph, exclaiming, "Yes! I did it!"

He grew even more confused, a fact that the mystery girl didn't seem to notice immediately. She spun to face him again, wholly animated in her gestures as she rambled excitedly.

"This is great! I can't believe it really worked!" She flailed her arms about like she had too much energy inside of her. "I went back, and now there's not even anything stopping us from dating! I'm ready!"

His lips parted, but nothing came out. He had absolutely no idea of what she was talking about, though his heart skipped another beat at the mention of them dating. He put a hand to his chest, keeping his poker face on whilst trying to puzzle out the feeling he was having.

Finally, the situation caught up with her. Her eyes darted up and down, taking him in, then squinted in thought. She eased back, gaze wandering like she was trying to gauge what she'd said and what she hadn't. Luka noted that she was still breathing a little hard from having run to him and figured that the exhaustion hadn't helped her thoughts come through coherently.

"Ah, I came here, then asked... and then..." She trailed off, mumbling more to herself than him. When she met his gaze again, it was with embarrassment. "I should probably explain, right?"

——

"You're from the future?" he repeated as they sat at the edge of the path, him sitting cross-legged while she dangled her legs off to the side.

"Yes! Or—" She hesitated, crossing her arms and correcting, "Maybe not the future, exactly? This might be another dimension. I went back in time but the time before now must've changed too."

He only nodded, blindly following this tale to whatever unpredictable conclusion she had.

"Long story short, I - we - were heroes? There were these miraculouses that you used to power up, but someone was using them for evil." She brought one leg up so she could hug it to her chest, letting her chin rest on her knee. It was strange to see her without the energy she'd had before. "He got a hold of a bunch of them, even yours, and found out everyone's identities except for mine and Chat Noir's. I couldn't stop thinking about how much danger you'd be in, and after you..."

She trailed off and blushed, covering her face. Luka couldn't make out every word she was saying, but there was something in there about "not planning this far."

"Anyway!" She put her hands down, forcing her next words out. "I had to do something, to stop him, to protect you, to protect everyone, so I made a wish!"

"A wish," he echoed, keeping his voice carefully neutral.

"...Ah, I guess you wouldn't know," she realized. "You need my miraculous and Chat's, and then you can make a wish for a price. It's—" She brought her hand to her mouth, biting her thumbnail from nerves. "It's kind of against the rules? I think I made the right choice though. The miraculouses are gone, but I'm sure that's what the kwami would've wanted. Now no one can use them for evil anymore." She paused, gaze contemplative, then glanced at him. "Oh, the kwami are..." She waved dismissively. "Never mind. I sound crazy enough already."

"But you still told me," he pointed out.

"Well..." She shrugged, embarrassed. "You had one of the time miraculouses, so if anyone remembered, I thought it might be you?"

That was a blatantly bad excuse, especially with how she'd approached him. Leaning towards her, he asked cautiously, "Is it about what you said? About us...?"

He purposefully didn't finish to give her an out, but she didn't take it. She straightened, letting her leg back down with her other, and sighed.

"Yeah. I—" She stiffened in an epiphany. "Wait, I—I should've started with this."

She started patting herself down, searching her person for something unknown. Her jacket didn't have pockets and the ones on her capris were fake, so she opted to check the purse at her side.

"I think my body came back with me, so..." She gasped in delight, pulling out something small enough to be hidden in her closed fist. "Here! Look familiar?"

Luka watched as she opened her hand, revealing a Jagged Stone guitar pick resting on her palm. To anyone else, it probably seemed inconclusive, because how could a guitar pick that anyone could have - and that he personally had multiple of anyway - prove anything?

Except he knew his guitar picks, to the point of having them on display in his room. That was how he could tell that the one in her hand wasn't just any Jagged Stone guitar pick, but his. He could see all the notable wear that he'd done to it ("tough love," as his mother called it) like they were fingerprints on glass.

He reached out, giving the girl a brief look for permission, then took the pick from her and started examining it further. She was happy to let him do so to prove her case and he caught her smiling out of the corner of her eye.

"You gave it to me the day we met," she explained, a lightness to her voice that wasn't there before. "I was in a pretty bad mood over another guy, but he's not important now."

Luka had no idea that the "unimportant" guy she was talking about was Paris's sunshine boy, at least in another timeline.

"I'm, um... sorry for throwing all of this on you." She giggled self-derisively, rubbing an arm. "I was so happy that everything worked out, even if you didn't remember me. I was always so busy being a hero that I didn't have any time for anyone, but now I don't have to worry anymore."

And she'd thought to see him first, even if she didn't say it explicitly. Her story being accurate meant that there had been any number of people to check on or go to, yet he was the one she'd gone for. He was the one she blurted out her whole story to, despite how fantastical it seemed. Despite them not having any relationship that he could remember, she was comfortable enough to be vulnerable around him. If he took everything she said into account, that had also meant that they were either near-dating or one of them had confessed, and considering that she'd already mentioned that she was too busy for people, that only left him to have done so.

At the thought, he felt something warm on his skin; lights that weren't from the sun exactly, but what he imagined it would feel like to have stage lights shining down on him. It felt right, somehow.

"Luka?" the girl called.

He'd been lost in his own head, still processing everything she'd said. He stared, noting the hand outstretched for a friendly handshake.

She smiled, though it was more awkward than before. "I already changed the timeline, so things probably won't happen the same way, but... it's just nice to meet you again. I'm Marinette." She glanced off to the side, the edges of her smile twitching as she added in a murmur to herself, "I should've started with that too."

She'd reigned in her earlier statements now that she'd calmed, having gone from, "we can date, I'm ready," to, "it's just nice to meet you again." She was preparing - expecting - for the possibility that they wouldn't hit the same notes twice, but if he were honest with himself, he was already interested in her in a way. She seemed nice, funny, and incredibly adorable, not to mention how she was entirely unpredictable in her actions.

He chuckled, deciding not to voice the thought for the time being. As she'd said, she was apparently free of anything holding her back anymore, so they could take it easy.

He reached out to her outstretched hand, holding the back of it with one and placing the guitar pick back in her palm with the other. Her eyes sparkled with hope as her gaze darted between him and the guitar pick, reading the wordless reassurance exactly how he'd intended.

Returning her smile with his own, he replied, "Nice to meet you again too."

[angelwings-crossbowstrings]

Whumptober 2023

No. 22 Glass Shard

Pairing: Daryl Dixon x Fem!Reader

Setting: Prison Era

Warnings: Injury, Blood

“Don’t take it out!” You swatted Daryl’s hands away from a large glass shard protruding from his right side. “You might bleed out. We don’t know if it hit anything vital.” He scowled at you and murmured something you couldn’t hear but dropped his hands to his sides. “Shouldn’t be picking fights.”

“Ain’t pickin’ no fights. We needed the meds n’ we got ‘em.” He snapped, walking toward the bike with his left hand below the injury. 

“Wait a minute! You can’t possibly think you’re driving us back like that!”

He looked at you like you’d sprouted another head. “Why wouldn’ I?”

Lord, give me patience. Don’t give me strength because I’ll kill him. You pinched the bridge of your nose. “You’ve been stabbed, Daryl. You’re bleeding. When someone bleeds a lot, they sometimes pass out. I’d rather not be behind you on a fricking motorcycle if that happens.”

Scowling again. Typical. “Ain’t gon’ pass out. Le’s go.”

You started to follow but decided against it. Appeasing his pride would get you both killed. Planting your feet, you crossed your arms. “No.”

Daryl had thrown his leg over and plopped heavily onto the seat, raising his brows at your brazen refusal. “Wha’?”

“You heard me. I said no.”

“Woman, don’ make me leave ya here.”

“You would never.” Your eyes narrowed in challenge, flickering down toward his boot when he toed up the kickstand. He really would never, right? When he started the engine, you really started to doubt but would not be swayed. He was already pale and sweaty, droplets of blood pooling behind his boot. With a deep breath, you squared your shoulders. Daryl cared about you. You had to believe that he wouldn’t leave you. 

He watched you with a stoic expression, only faltering once you stood straighter. He must look like shit if you wouldn’t trust him to get the both of you home. Lowering the kickstand, he shut off the bike. “Wha’s the plan?”

You blinked at him. 

“Ya let me start up the bike n’ make enough noise ta attract ev’ry walker in there n’ ya didn’t have a plan?” 

“Well I didn’t exactly think you’d try to bully me into letting you kill us, Daryl!” You dropped your arms and looked around while he muttered to himself. You spotted a pick up next to the gate. It must have belonged to the men that attacked you. The driver’s door was still open. Maybe they just happened to leave the keys and you wouldn’t need to hotwire the stupid thing. “Wha’re ya doin’ now?” The archer called after you when you sprinted toward the truck. 

You leaned inside with a spirited ‘yes!’ upon finding the keys in the ignition. Next up: fuel. “Please be enough. Please be enough.” You turned the key and watched the fuel gauge before leaning out. “Will just below half get us back?”

“Should.” He yelled back, getting off the bike. He stumbled but caught himself, leaving your heart hammering. You definitely couldn’t drag him to the passenger side, much less get him in there.

Climbing back out, you jogged over to help him. “Let’s get the bike in the back and I’ll drive, okay.”

Daryl only nodded. You pushed down your concern and opened the tailgate, helping him lift the bike into the back. Damn thing was fucking heavy but if you were hauling it, that was the only way to get it loaded. Panting, you closed it up just in time to see the man beside you sway on his feet. 

“Whoa!” Small hands grabbed his shoulders to steady him. “You okay? You’re looking a little pekid.” He was panting just as hard as you were, which wasn’t a shocker since the two of you just bench pressed a 400 pound bike into the back of a pickup. Probably not the best idea when one of you has a large piece of glass playing poke-the-vital-organ. 

He lifted his hands to gently grab your wrists, lowering your arms from his shoulders. “M’fine. Le’s jus’ get outta ‘ere. We got company.” A nod toward the area behind you had you turn toward the group of walkers approaching. 

“Okay, hop in.” You walked around him but slowed your steps to make sure he made it all the way to the passenger door. Sure, he was using the truck to steady himself the entire way but he finally climbed inside. You quickly slid behind the wheel and started up the engine. Once you pulled out onto the road, a little of the anxiety churning inside your chest dissipated. “We’ll get back just after dark, I think. Get Hershel to take a look at you.”

When he no more than hummed in reply, you glanced over at him. His head was against the window, eyes closed, lips parted to release shallow pants of breath. His skin glistened with sweat while holding a sickly pallor in stark contrast to the dark circles around his eyes. You would bet anything that if you touched his skin, it would be cold.

“Daryl? Daryl, your wound. How’s your wound?” You asked frantically, trying to split your attention between him and the road. 

“S’fine, Y/N. Jus’ drive.” 

“Let me see.” You requested softly, still trying to stay on course. 

“Drive. M’fine.” Daryl replied. He hadn’t opened his eyes at all. 

Mindful that neither of you were wearing seatbelts, you slowed to a stop and turned in the seat, grabbing at him to turn where you could see. He was slow to open his eyes. 

“Knock it off. Why we stopped?” The shove he gave you was gentle but enough to put some space between you. He didn’t expect you to come right back, this time to roughly grab his vest and pull him down across the seat. 

“You pulled it out?!” You yelled, pressing your hand over the steadily bleeding wound. His blood coated the interior of the door, the seat, and had puddled on the floor. “I said not to take it out, Daryl!”

“Didn’.” He replied quietly, sounding more than tired. “Got…got pulled out loadin’ the bike.”

You gaped at him. “And you didn’t think to say something?”

“Didn’ wanna worry ya. ‘Sides, m’fine.” His eyes slowly closed. “Doc’ll fix…me…righ’…”

“Daryl?” You kept one hand on the wound and used the other to shake him. “Daryl?! Goddamnit!” Peeling off your flannel overshirt, you folded it and pressed it against the injury, laying his arm over it to hold it in place. You climbed back behind the wheel, glad to have him lying across the seat so you could check his pulse while you hauled ass back to the prison. 

You found yourself carding your fingers through his hair, stroking his jaw, feeling his pulse, anything that let you know he was right there. His skin was so cold, his breaths so shallow that you could hardly feel the exhale at all. 

When the prison was within sight, you almost didn’t even stop to let them open the gates. 

Carol found you pacing outside by the picnic benches three hours after you had returned with Daryl. Three hours after you had leapt from the cab of the truck screaming for help. Three hours after you had collapsed to your knees watching Rick and Glenn carry Daryl inside. Three hours after you couldn’t find a pulse.

“He’s alive, Y/N.” The woman said softly. She sat down on top of one of the tables and watched you. You were thankful she had led with that but still couldn’t bring yourself to stop wearing a hole into the concrete. 

“But?” You weren’t naive. There was something more if she wanted to give you the good news first. Wanted you calmer. A very Carol tactic. You loved her for it but couldn’t entertain it. Not now. 

Carol could sense that. “Whatever he was stabbed with nicked his liver. Hershel was able to repair it but there was some internal bleeding. Hey,” she reached out to grab your hand. “He lost a lot of blood so he’s not out of the woods yet but he’s tough.”

“That’s the problem, though, isn’t it?” You laughed wryly. “Everyone thinks he’s invincible, so he feels like he has to be. He didn’t even tell me that he was bleeding out, Carol. He was just gonna sit there and…and…”

“Okay, okay, come here.” Carol pulled you to sit next to her, hugging you tightly. “You’re right. We need to make sure he knows that it’s okay to need help.” Pulling you back by your shoulders, she swept your hair out of your face. “And when he is better, we’ll get to work on that, okay?” You nodded, allowing her to wipe away your tears. “He’ll be okay.”

You sniffled and nodded again, more softly than the first time. “Can I see him?”

Daryl made it through the night. Hershel had said his chances of a full recovery only increased after that. You hadn’t slept much, but couldn’t bring yourself to close your eyes just yet. So you just sat in a chair by the bunk with your head lying on the mattress by his hand. Your own hand looked so small wrapped around his, your skin so much paler than his tan. You counted any freckles you found on his arm. You even cleaned from underneath his nails. 

Carol eventually came by with two bowls of oatmeal. You thanked her quietly while never raising from your spot. True to form, she came over and kissed the top of your head, giving your shoulder a squeeze. Her dainty hand then on Daryl’s bicep, gently rubbing up to his shoulder and back down before she walked out of the cell. 

Eventually, exhaustion won out. When you opened your eyes again, it was dark inside the cell. An almost burned out candle filled the room with dancing shadows but it was the eyes that reflected the flame that had your attention. 

“Daryl!” You leaned closer, touching his face, his neck, anywhere you could while his eyes followed you. “I’m so glad you’re awake. How are you feeling?”

“Tired.” His voice was rough from sleep and lack of use. He coughed weakly, face scrunching in pain before smoothing out again. “Thirsty.”

“Be right back.” You jogged from the cell to fetch some water and to let Hershel know Daryl had finally awoke. The veterinarian came not long after you had finished settling Daryl against the pillows once he had taken a few sips. 

“Blood pressure is a little lower than I’d like but that’s likely from the blood loss. Everything else looks real good, son.” He patted Daryl’s leg before standing with his crutches. “I’m sure you know you’re benched for a while though.”

“Yeah, figured.” Daryl shrugged a shoulder. He looked as though he could fall back asleep at any given moment. 

“Alright. I’ll check in tomorrow morning. Get some rest.” The older man stopped beside you and added “the both of you.” You gave him a nod and wished him goodnight. 

“Ya okay?” Daryl asked before you could even sit back down. You chose to sit on the edge of the mattress instead of the chair. 

“I’m fine now that I know you’re okay. You scared the hell out of me.”

“I know. M’sorry.” He answered quietly, his gaze falling away from yours. He knew exactly what you weren’t saying. “You should have told me.” 

“Hey.” You reached up to brush his hair away from his face, smiling and letting your hand come to rest on his cheek. “Don’t worry. We will be talking about this but I won’t yell at you until you feel better.”

“S’real comfortin’, Y/N.” His smirk was half-assed at best, either from fatigue or guilt. 

“I know. I have a great bedside manner.” You beamed. Getting to your feet, you moved closer to his own and crawled onto the bed and across his legs to his left side. He turned his head to watch you, each blink lasting longer than the one before it. 

“Guess it ain’t half bad.”

“Oh come on, it’s phenomenal. What other caregiver’s gonna crawl in bed with you and snuggle?”

“Hope ta hell Hershel don’ take notes from ya.”

“He had a hard time with the missing foot but you two looked super cozy when my shift began.” You snorted when he shrugged the shoulder you had cuddled against, jarring you back a little. 

“I can’ stand ya sometimes.”

“Pft, you love me.” You nuzzled your nose against his cheek before kissing it. He huffed a tired laugh and let his eyes drift shut. 

“Eh, I migh’.”

“Wait, what?” You blinked. “You might what? Daryl?” The only replies were his deep, even breaths. You laid your head back against his shoulder and watched him, biting back a wide smile. Now you had even more to talk about. 

[creachureboy]

Nighttime Scooter Ride (Scout x Reader)

Male reader, but can be read as gender neutral if you ignore one line.

ROMANTIC AND CHEESY

Established relationship

Crickets chirped in the distance as you held onto Scout, your front pressing against his back as the cool nighttime air made your hair dance and twirl like it was putting on a show. With just a single glance upward, your eyes were met with the stars twinkling overhead.

"The stars are beautiful," you muttered, nuzzling your cheek into his back. "They're just.. so much bigger than we could ever imagine. And they're there every night." You fidgeted with his jacket zipper. "Reminds you just how small we are, huh? And yet we're still here, together, enjoying ourselves."

"Yknow," he started, "I ain't never been one for that philosophy shit, but you're right." He slowed his scooter down, eventually coming to a stop. He leaned one leg on the ground, looking up at the sky, and you had to move your head out of the way so he wouldn't accidentally bonk your head with his own. "How big do ya think those stars are? Like, if we were standing right next to them."

"Well, standing next to a star would kill us, that's for sure." You sighed contentedly, resting your head on his shoulder. "But they're prolly bigger than the sun - which is already so huge I couldn't even imagine it." You pressed your upper lip against your nose, the sudden warmth making your cold nose tingle. "When you think of how small we are in comparison, it's like nothing even matters."

"You matter, baby." He turned to kiss your cheek. "We matter."

You chuckled. "Yeah, I know. But what I meant was, when you see the stars, it's easier to let go of responsibilities, y'know?" You nestled closer to him. "It's like I'm just.. alone out here-" you kissed his cheek, "with you."

He smiled, turning to you and pecking your nose, before revving up the engine again. "We're almost at that spot." He gave you a second to hold onto him tightly again, before starting to move. "Once we get there, we're gonna kiss under the stars. Do all that romantic shit."

You couldn't see his face, but his blush reached his ear. Maybe he could feel against his back the way your heart pounded in your chest. "I love you."

"I love you too, doll."

"So much." You buried your face in his neck.

"Yeah-" he chuckled, as he typically did when he was shy, "I love you so much too. I.. feel so lucky to be out here with you. With the- with the guy of my dreams."

You were suddenly glad he couldn't see your face. "Can you feel my heart beating?"

You could see his cheek move as he smiled. "Yeah. Can ya feel mine?"

You put your hand on his chest, feeling for his heartbeat. You kept your hand there for a moment, just the touch making you relax. "I can." Your chest was warm with love. "You're the guy of my dreams too. Can't believe I just-" you squished your cheek against his back, "I got so lucky to be with the sweetest, funniest, cutest guy on base. The most adorable, most charming, most- just-" you paused, trying not to melt, "I can say 'I love you' a hundred times, but it won't be enough to convey that feeling, you get what I mean?"

"I know exactly what ya mean. I feel that same way about you. God-" another chuckle, "I'm so lucky to be with you."

All the cheesiness was getting to you, and the feeling of love and warmth you had for him was almost overwhelming. You just wanted to grab his cheeks and kiss him right on his silly face.

Eventually, the scooter slowed to a halt, and you looked up at the little sheltered area formed by an overhanging rock.

"We're here."

You got off the scooter, unbuckling your helmet as you watched Scout dismount and put down the kickstand. You took your helmet and grabbed a seat on the dusty and rocky floor in what would be the shade if it was daytime. You shivered a little, bundling up in your jacket.

He joined you, putting his helmet down on the floor and taking yours so he could put them together. He wrapped an arm around your shoulder to pull you close. "Weirdly cold, huh?"

"Yeah," you murmured, looking up at him to put your hand on his cheek. Clearly, you didn't care that much about the weather.

And with the way he wasted no time pressing his lips against yours, he felt the same way. You ran your hand from his cheek to his hair, finding that his ear was a little cold to the touch. He held the side of your neck gently, running his fingers through your hair and tilting your head up a little to deepen the kiss.

You pulled away for a moment, only to rejoin your lips once more. Your heart was threatening to leap out of your throat already, but you made it worse by shifting to sit in his lap and kissing him again. Even as the nighttime breeze engulfed you, you found warmth in him.

He leaned back slightly only to whisper, "can't get enough of you," before your lips met again.

Everything about this moment felt so safe. Never in a million years would you have imagined being so loved, so utterly wanted, all for being yourself. You didn't have a single facade up, but here Scout was, kissing you like you were the only thing that mattered.

A quiet pitter-pattering of water could be heard, causing the two of you to pull away and look outside.

"The bike!" Scout gently suggested you off his lap, to which you quickly complied, so he could rush over and wheel the scooter under the shade too. "Why's it even raining?"

"Yeah, the-" you peeked up at the stars, "the sky looks clear to me."

Using his sleeve, he wiped down the seat a bit. "It don't seem too wet."

You hummed in response, admittedly still a little dazed from the kissing. "So uh- we'll just. Be here for a bit then?" You reached your arms out to him, beckoning him back. "Until the rain passes."

"Yeah." He came to sit beside you again, resting his forehead against yours. "Do we- did ya wanna go back to kissing?"

You naturally gravitated a bit closer, but as the love started to overwhelm you, you instead opted to wrap your arms around him and bury your face in his chest. "Let's just- be together."

He rubbed your back soothingly. "Alright, baby." He took in a deep breath, seeming to relax a bit at the smell of the cool and damp air. "Was I too much?"

"A bit." You answered. "I- I do wanna keep kissing you but- but like, I'm a bit-"

"Shh, sh-sh-sh," he hugged your head to his chest, "I know, I get it. We can always kiss later."

You smiled a little, sitting on his lap again. "Thanks."

His hand started playing with your hair like it had a mind of its own. "Always gonna look out for my boyfriend."

"I love you."

He cupped your cheeks in his palms and pulled you away for a moment, just so he could see your cute little squished face. "I love you too. Always and forever."

[lizcameron]

Part of His World | Part One

Pairing: JJ Maybank x fem!reader

Summary: Y/n was just trying to get out of town, running from her family and her past. When her dirt bike breaks down in Kildare, JJ Maybank swoops in to help her. Forced to stick around for a while, Y/n begins to fall in love with JJ and his tight-knit family of outcasts. The longer she stays, the harder it becomes to leave OBX as she knows she must.

Word Count: 1154

Warning(s): just some insinuation of family issues, maybe violence

‘“Shit,” you muttered as you hit the brakes of the dirt bike and rolled to a stop.

You got off to inspect, lowering the kickstand. As you poked around the guts of the bike, you wished you had taken your bicycle instead. Seeing no smoke or leaking fluids, you were at a loss. Rising to stand with your hands on your hips, you wondered why you ever thought you would get very far. You inhaled a deep, steadying breath as you fought back the tears that threatened to spill.

“Shit, shit, shit!” you shouted as you kicked the rear tire of the dirt bike. Just as you reared your leg back for another swing, an old pickup truck rolled up and stopped on the opposite side of the road.

“Great, a dirty old perv coming to the rescue,” you mumbled as you steeled yourself, ready to tell the guy to shove off. Just as you raised your hand to wave him off, a young, blonde boy probably around 20 or 21 hopped out of the truck with his own hands up. You quickly dropped your arm to your side, fiddling with the hem of your shorts nervously.

“Woah, woah, woah,” the blonde called, holding up both hands as if to come in peace. “That’s a sick vintage you’re abusing. Ya’ need some help?”

“Um yeah, actually. It died a block back,” you said, scratching the back of your head in embarrassment.

The boy strode over, squatting down to examine the bike. Without a word, he began poking at it. You stood awkwardly, allowing the stranger to take a look. After a few silent moments, he spoke up. “You’ve got a hole in your crankcase - no oil in it. What year is this?”

“Dunno,” you replied. “It’s my brother’s.”

“Your brother let you take his bike out like this?” the boy scoffed.

“Was my brother’s,” you correct yourself. “He doesn’t have much use for it these days.”

The boy looks at the bike incredulously. “What a shame. I’d kill to ride this thing. Even in this condition, it’s sexier than my bike could ever be.”

You blushed a little. You had noticed the stranger’s good looks as soon as he exited his truck despite being confronted on the roadside. You laughed half-heartedly, not knowing what to say in response.

“I might have something back at the house to patch up that leak. You’ll need some new parts if you plan on taking this gal anywhere, though,” the boy offered.

You took a guarded step back. As much as you really needed to get out of town and help to do so, you weren’t so naive.

“No offense, but I don’t know you,” you stated, perhaps a bit too harshly.

The boy extended a hand, blurting out, “JJ.” When you didn’t take his hand, he added, “Maybank. JJ Maybank, friendly neighborhood dirt bike mechanic,” he said with a prize winning grin.

You shook his hand reluctantly. He seemed innocent enough. After a beat, JJ asked, “Now that we’re acquainted, y’ wanna help me lift this thing into the truck?”

You shrugged mentally, figuring you weren’t getting out of this predicament on your own. You toed the kickstand up and began wheeling the bike toward the truck, muttering, “Thanks.”

JJ jogged over to the truck to lower the tailgate, and the two of you lifted the bike into the bed. The bulge of his arm muscles did not go unnoticed by you.

About a mile down the road, JJ broke the silence in the truck. “You never told me your name, ya’ know.”

“Uh, Y/N,” you stated.

“Well, Y/N, why haven’t I seen you around here before?”

After a pause, you lied, “Uh, homeschooled. I don’t get out much.” You didn’t want to mention the fact that you were just passing through on your way to the mainland.

The rest of the ride to JJ’s house was quiet. He didn’t prod, picking up on how guarded you were. The trip was less than 10 minutes, all of which you stared out the window in contemplation of your next steps. You hadn’t given much thought to what you would do once you left. As soon as your dad’s truck turned off of your street that morning, you’d dragged your brother’s dirt bike out of the shed and taken the little bit of cash you knew he kept stashed in the mantle lockbox. Fifty miles later and you were broken down on the roadside.

A small, white house came into view as the truck slowed. JJ hopped out of the truck and you followed to help him get the bike down. You sat on a stool quietly as JJ cleaned and patched the damaged part. You watched as he seemed completely engrossed in his work, his bottom lip caught between his teeth in concentration. He glanced up at you, smiling when he noticed your stare.

“Can you hand me that rag there?” he asked, pointing to the workbench behind you. You blinked and held it out, JJ’s greasy hand brushing yours as he reached for it. You recoiled at the spark you felt run up your arm.

JJ’s words didn’t give you much time to think about it. “It’ll take several hours for the patch to set before you can add any oil. I’ve got plans with my friends. You should join,” he proposed.

You didn’t have anywhere else to go, and this boy was nice enough. What could it hurt? “Sure, I just want to be able to hit the road before dark,” you said.

JJ grinned that prize winning grin again.

After JJ went inside to wash up, the two of you were on your way to what JJ referred to as “the chateau.” You weren’t too upset about this wrench in your plans. It was better you broke down in Kildare where someone who could help happened upon you than somewhere where you’d be stranded and vulnerable. You could use the next few hours to formulate the rest of your plan, or maybe you’d let go and try to enjoy the distraction of others near your age.

When you pulled up to what must be the chateau, JJ killed the engine and turned to you before getting out. “You don’t have to tell me the whole truth. I just want to know that you’re not in any danger… or that you’re not an ax murderer,” he said, trying to keep it somewhat light.

You gazed at his face for a moment. It was so genuine. You pushed down the pang of sadness that crept into the back of your mind. No one had shown you an ounce of kindness or concern since your brother had left eight months ago.

“I’ll be okay,” you said with a small smile.

JJ nodded, and you both got out of the truck and walked up to the chateau.

Thanks for reading my first-ever fic. I hope you liked it and follow for more!

More JJ coming soon. Maybe even a bit of Rafe.

[spibberboi]

Espresso Oneshot- Night Train

Pairing: Enji x Thrax, EnThrax

Warnings: FTM vagina, trans sex, vaginal sex, top surgery scars, spicy things

Song of inspiration: Night Train by Jason Aldean

It had been a long day. A very long day. Enji was exhausted, but.. he had a date planned for the night. He smiled behind his helmet as he rode his bike home, thinking of the evening he and his lover were going to have.

I’ve been thinkin' 'bout you all day, baby..

Waitin' on that sun to go down..

He had texted Thrax about an hour before closing up the store, sending him, “Whatcha say I pick you up after work? Slide over, we slip out to the outskirts of town?”

Thrax had smiled at the text when he had gotten it, rolling over lazily in bed, where he had been all day. He had just wanted to spend time with Enji.. so he responded to him earnestly. “I got a blanket and a fifth of Comfort.. Maybe a little something to knock off the edge?”

The foxtail virus had giggled at that. Alcohol sounded amazing and cuddles sounded perfect after the day he’d had..

“It's supposed to get a little cool tonight.. Looks like I'm gonna have to hold you tight~” he had responded before saying he was heading home for the evening.

Enji pulled into the driveway after a little while of driving, happily shutting off the bike and then rolling it into the garage before he kicked down the kickstand. He took the keys out and then slipped off the bike, then pulled off his helmet and hung it up on its place by the garage door. He looked at the door as he heard it open, and smiled sweetly as he saw Thrax standing there, dressed in some jeans and a hoodie.

“There’s my baby~” The green virus purred, moving to Thrax and taking the taller one into his arms. He smiled up at him, his eyes softening and a lot of his stress melting away as those fierce, green-blazen eyes stared down at him and dilated. Thrax sighed happily, leaning down and pressing a kiss to Enji’s fringe before wrapping his arms around his neck and holding him tightly, securely.

“I’m assuming work was a hassle today?” Asked the crimson one as he laid his cheek atop Enji’s head, smiling as he felt the cytoplasmic ears lay down from the contact. Enji huffed in response, grumbling a bit, “Yes.. customers being dumb, my staff not knowing what the hell to do.. it’s like running a store full of.. microbes!”

Thrax chuckled at that and pulled back, looking down at Enji and using his knuckle to tilt his head up so he could look at that sage-green face. “Then how about we get some dinner ate. Then we go do the thing you wanted to do?”

Enji smiled at him and nodded, slipping past him and into the house, Thrax fully in tow after him. The foxtail made his way upstairs and opted to change clothes, putting on some comfy leggings and one of Thrax’s t-shirts, which was of course way too big on him, but that’s why he loved it. The virus then made his way back downstairs just as Thrax pulled dinner out of the oven.

•••••••••••••

They happily ate their food, finishing up every bite of lasagna in the bowl. Enji groaned and leaned back in his seat, rubbing his belly and then sighing. “Damn that was good.. You literally make the best food, babydoll.”

Thrax hummed, scraping whatever bit was left in his bowl and putting the spoon in his mouth to polish it off. “It ain’t the best an’ you know it, baby. You’re jus’ tryna make me feel good~”

Enji giggled and held up his hands in defeat as Thrax stood up and gathered their bowls to go wash them, but of course not being able to walk away before Enji gave him a kiss and said, “Thank you, baby.” The simple gesture and words always lit a fire in Thrax’s chest, and he had a goofy little grin on his face as he walked to the sink.

Enji was quick to stand and pull him away from the sink after Thrax had set the bowls in, causing the taller virus to laugh a little and look down at his partner. “Baby, the hell ya doin’? I gotta wash these..”

The foxtail smiled at him and rounded to in front of him. “Leave it for tomorrow. Let’s get outta here. Go out your shoes on.”

Thrax chuckled, unable to resist when Enji looked so damn determined. He separated from his love and walked to the mudroom, putting on his shoes as Enji trailed in behind and did the same. Thrax soon remembered something and walked off, disappearing into the house for a few minutes before coming back with a bottle of their favorite Crown Royal and a nice blanket. Enji chuckled at him, “Really? The Crown? Baby, we got cheaper stuff.”

Thrax hummed, “I’m taking this as a special event since we don’t do it much.. we can always buy another bottle if we drink all of this one.”

The sage one giggled some and then grabbed his truck keys that were hanging up and walked to the garage door, holding it open for Thrax to walk out before he closed it and locked it. After that, he unlocked the truck and they hopped in. Enji grumbled when he noticed his seat on the driver’s side had been moved and he looked at Thrax.

“Dammit, what have I told you about moving my seat? I can’t see over the steering wheel!” He complained as he fixed it to where he could see and drive properly. Thrax just snickered, shaking his head as Enji started up the truck and pulled out of the garage and driveway.

They got out to the highway and Enji turned up the radio, humming a bit with it as they rode on. After about half an hour of driving, he turned down Ole Mill Road, driving out about a mile that way to where the road turned to stones, right to a spot that no one else knew about. He pulled off to the side at a certain area and shut off the truck. They hopped out and he locked it, tucking the keys in his pocket before they started walking a bit, taking a worn out path that animals seemed to travel through quite frequently to get to a field on the other side of the treeline.

Enji’s ears perked up then and he smiled as he heard the sound of the train starting to go by just on the other side of the hill that lined the field. Then, he took off into a sprint, grinning.

“Come on, babe, I hear it comin’!”

Thrax chuckled as he then picked up the pace, carefully holding the blanket to his chest as it protected the bottle of alcohol against his chest. They made it over the crest of the hill, and down below was the train starting to pass on by.

Got a moon and a billion stars.. the sound of steel and old box cars.. The thought of you is driving me insane.. come on baby, let’s go listen to the night train..

They laid out the blanket then and sat down. Enji was sitting up with his legs out, leaning back on his hands as Thrax moved to lay his head in the smaller one’s lap. Enji smiled then, speaking, “Yeah, I hope it’s gonna be a long one.. and we’re certainly lucky, it’s moving slow.”

“I wouldn't mind if it lasted all night.. Laying here with you is paradise..” Thrax spoke up, smiling softly as fingers and nails started to run over his dreads. Enji hummed softly as he heard that and his tail swayed a bit against the ground at the thought of staying out there all night. He grabbed the bottle of Crown then and opened it, taking a nice swig of the alcohol and sighing happily as it left a pleasant burn in his throat and chest, warming him up in the cool night air.

Thrax turned his head and watched, taking in every aspect of Enji. His membrane, his eyes pleasantly shut as he enjoyed the drink.. it all drove him insane, even if it was the most mundane of things. Everything about Enji drove Thrax crazy.. it’s part of why he stayed with the foxtail after Enji left Frank City and moved on to a different host. Thrax smiled softly as he looked up at Enji, lifting a clawed hand up and running his knuckles along Enji’s cheek gently, as not to spook him. Those pale blue eyes opened up and Enji smiled down at him, tilting his head as his ears perked up.

Thrax sat up after a moment, taking the bottle of Crown and getting himself a swig of the glorious alcohol just to match the buzz with his partner, though he could drink a lot more, of course.

Enji leaned a bit and wrapped his arm around Thrax’s, laying his head against his shoulder and sighing happily as he did so. He looked to the train then, watching as car after car passed on the track down below. It was so peaceful, being out there. No loud city noise, no car alarms or dogs barking. Just them, the wind and the train below. It truly was like paradise..

The crimson virus turned his head and looked down at his lover as he closed the bottle back and sighed softly, contently, before leaning down and pressing a kiss to the top of his head. This ears twitched and it made him chuckle a bit before his hand came up and he ran it over them, watching as they popped right back up after his hand let them go. Enji looked up at him then, giggling a bit from the action. “T, don’t start doing that shit. You know I don’t like it.”

Thrax chuckled a bit and grabbed the tip of one of Enji’s ears with the pads of his fingers and hummed. “Ah cmon.. it’s so fun watching them move around.”

The foxtail rolled his eyes then and just turned his head, looking out for ver the rolling hills ahead of them. Thrax watched him and then opened the Crown bottle again and took another swig of it. He then capped it and set it to the side before he laid back. Enji watched him and snickered a bit, then laid down with him and cuddled up to the crimson virus’ side, closing his eyes. Thrax’s hand moved, starting to rub Enji’s back soothingly. It made a purr start up in the sage one’s chest, his arms tightening a bit around Thrax’s middle. Then the nails started.. oh those nails. Enji always melted when they started to run over him, coaxing a soft whimper out of his throat when they ran over a sensitive spot.

Thrax’s eyes opened and he looked at him, smirking a bit. “You and bein’ all sensitive..”

“Oh shut up, you ain’t no better.” Enji growled back at him, looking up and frowning a little.

“Oh yeah? How?”

That was a challenge Enji was willing to accept. He moved and smiled, hovering over Thrax and moving to start lining the column of his neck in kisses. That was always his weak spot.. it was an instant melting point for Thrax, and he sighed as his eyes closed and he squirmed a bit. Enji smiled to himself as he noticed that his plan was already working and he continued, biting into the junction of Thrax’s neck and shoulder before sucking a dark mark onto his crimson skin.

That’s when the whine slipped out and Thrax’s cheeks grew darker, looking almost black as his brows furrowed together. Enji giggled and started trailing his kisses down as he moved to straddle Thrax’s thighs.

“Sit up, baby..” Enji instructed, taking Thrax’s hands and pulling him up. His own hands then moved to the bottom of the hoodie and he started to pull it up. Thrax helped, soon taking hold of the hoodie and pulling it up over his head before tossing it off to the side by the blanket. Enji’s eyes widened just a bit, his pupils dilating some as he took in the expanse of Thrax’s broad chest, his muscles, the veins softly laying under the membrane of his forearms. And then his eyes landed on the top surgery scars, which seemed to shine gold in the light from the lamp they’d brought with them.

About a mile off Old Mill road.. That spot nobody knows.. we park the truck and we take off runnin’.. come on, baby, I can hear it comin’..

Thrax looked down in shyness before Enji grabbed the hook of his chin and made him look back up again, smiling at him. “You’re beautiful, baby boy.. don’t ever forget that..”

Thrax’s eyes widened and then they went lidded as he melted from the words, he then leaned down over Enji some and pressed their mouths together, a soft, satisfied sigh escaping from the pair of them as their lips made contact. Enji moved and his hands settled on the sides of Thrax’s neck, holding on gently as their tongues started to dance in the moment.

Got the moon and a billion stars.. the sound of steel and old box cars.. the thought of you is driving me insane..

They pulled away from each other and Thrax soon moved his hands, grabbing Enji’s hips and pulling him closer before those hands moved to the shirt the foxtail was wearing and started to pull it off of him. Enji happily obliged, tossing it to the side with the hoodie before Thrax’s mouth was on his neck, leaving loving, hot, open-mouthed kisses on it.

The sensation had Enji moaning softly as he closed his eyes and tilted his head to the side, allowing the virus more access to his neck as his brows furrowed. Those crimson hands moved to his hips again, massaging, holding, grabbing.. it was clear that they were getting warm from the alcohol, as well as from their lust and love for each other. It became apparent when Thrax’s hand moved and grazed over the bulge under Enji’s leggings, making the sage one jump a bit and squeak.

A smirk formed on Thrax’s lips then as he pulled back and looked at Enji, “Oh goodness.. what we got here? Is my baby already so excited for me?”

Enji’s ears laid back and he looked off to the side, his cheeks darkening to an emerald green color as he pouted some. It made Thrax grin all the more and his hand moved again, palming at the bulge of excitement. It made Enji’s back arch and he whimpered some. He looked at Thrax again and growled a bit, his brows furrowing together in frustration. Thrax just beamed.

“How about you take care of daddy a lil bit, then I let you have me~”

Enji’s eyes widened and his tail started swaying, showing off just how excited he truly was. It made Thrax snicker some and he made Enji move before he stood up, kicking off his shoes before starting to get to work on unbuttoning his jeans and pulling them off. He stayed turned away from Enji the whole time, which made the rabies virus whine at him, and in turn made Thrax ticked all the more.

After getting the jeans off his hips, Thrax kicked them to the side with the rest of their clothes and then he turned back, showing off the black, lacy panties he was wearing. He didn’t miss how Enji’s eyes widened in delight, how he practically started salivating over the sight alone. It made Thrax’s stomach do flips from seeing it alone. He truly did love this boy with all his soul..

Enji worshiped him day in and day out, like a god sent from the heavens to bless him. He showered Thrax in affection, attention, and all the love he could give. But also granted Thrax his trust, and allowed himself to be vulnerable, such as Thrax himself was with Enji. They worshipped each other, making sure they appeased their loving god and expected nothing truly in return.

Thrax snapped his fingers and pointed to the ground before him. “Come here.”

And Enji moved, sitting before Thrax on his knees and awaiting his lover’s next command.

Thrax smiled then and reached, running the sharp end of his blazing dagger or a claw along Enji’s cheek and then his jaw. “That’s a good boy.. you gonna made Daddy feel good, right?”

Enji nodded in earnest, smiling up at him softly before he sat up on his knees, placing his hands on top of Thrax’s well-toned thighs, rubbing his thumbs over the soft skin atop them gently. Thrax then reached down with that confirmation and hooked a claw under the crotch of the panties, pulling them off to the side. Then he curled his finger at Enji, signaling for him to come closer, to which he did. He looked up at him before moving close in anticipation, waiting for the go-ahead. Thrax could feel is breath on him, warming up the cooled slick that coated his folds and it made him shudder. He then nodded to Enji.

That’s when that damn forked tongue came out, running all the way from the back of the mound of sweet flesh to the front, right over Thrax’s clit. Thrax had to cover his mouth from it alone, his eyebrows furrowing. But his eyes rolled back when Enji’s tongue delved down between the folds, starting to consume every inch of his lover.

To Enji, the magma colored slick tasted so sweet, like the essence of fruit, of candy.. it was addicting. Not to mention the smell.. all of it was driving the foxtail crazy. He smirked to himself as he felt Thrax’s thighs shaking from the pleasure of it and his hands moved, rubbing those strong thighs. Thrax moaned out, almost sounding like he was growling in response to the touches. It was all driving him fucking mad.. it had been a while since they had last done anything due to poor Enji being so overworked as of late. But the pent up stress was worth it for this..

Thrax could already feel his core tightening up and he leaned his head back as his hands move and gripped on to Enji’s ears while he was being ate out, the beautiful creature letting strings of deep, guttural moans escape his throat as the pressure got more intense. What really god Thrax was when Enji’s tongue extended and the end of it slipped into him, while the base of his tongue still worked against his clit.

“Ah fuck, baby.. you.. fuckin’ hells.. you’re gonna.. god, I’m gonna cum fast at this rate..” The crimson one sighed out, his brows furrowing as he looked back down to Enji, who was blissed out from just the work he was doing to his lover.

It didn’t take long before those strong thighs tightened around Enji’s head and squished it some. The orgasm was breathtaking and Thrax bared his hips down hard on Enji’s face, practically suffocating the foxtail, but he didn’t mind. Enji kept his tongue moving throughout the whole thing, making the orgasm that much more intense for Thrax.

After the convulsions ended, Enji slipped his tongue out and crawled back up his lover, humming softly as he planted kiss after kiss on his skin before reaching his lips. The kiss was searing, as Thrax had already recovered and was raring for more. The red pathogen flipped them, seeming it his turn to make his baby feel good. Hooking a claw under Enji’s boxers, Thrax sliced the material clean in half, then pulled them off of his legs. Enji squeaked a bit against Thrax’s mouth, his eyebrows furrowing a bit. Thrax pulled back and looked at him, retracting his tongue from his lover’s throat.

Enji was panting, his whole face glowing with blush. It was beautiful to Thrax.. they had been together a couple of years now, and Enji never ceased to amaze the crimson virus. Like him, the poor thing had worked day in and day out to make a body a suitable residence, to make it *home*. He worked so Thrax didn’t have to, got him everything he needed, everything he could ever want. At the end of the day, Enji chose Thrax above all..

“I love you..” slipped from Thrax’s throat as he stared down at Enji. The foxtail’s eyes widened just a bit. It wasn’t that he didn’t hear it much, it was the way Thrax said it. It wasn’t just the passing ‘love you’ that they always shared, this was.. deep, full of emotion. Enji smiled and reached up, holding his cheeks in his hands. “I love you too, baby.. more than you could ever imagine..”

That sent a flare of warmth to Thrax’s chest and he smiled a little, the hills of his brows furrowing softly before he leaned down and started to pepper his own kisses to Enji’s face, down his jaw and neck and then all the way down to his groin. With careful hands, Thrax took Enji’s cock into hand, humming as he stroked it a few times before pressing a kiss to the head of it, all while staring up with those acidic eyes.

Enji whimpered a bit, his hand reaching down to take hold of the top of Thrax’s dreads and holding on gently. That’s when Thrax wrapped his lips around the erection, soon starting to slowly take more and more of it into his mouth. The moans that escaped the foxtail were guttural.. real. Thrax felt himself getting wet all over again, and his spare hand reached down to press the pads of his fingers against his clit, moving slowly against it.

The foxtail looked down at him, propping himself up on his elbows as his brows furrowed. The heat pooling in his stomach was immense, making him lean his head back as moan after moan spilled from his throat and lungs like sweet honey to Thrax’s ears. That tongue.. the grazing of teeth.. and the sight of Thrax playing with himself.. it was all too much.

“I.. baby.. I’m getting close..” Enji whined as he looked down at him once again, his brows furrowing together as he gently bit his lip. Those acidic eyes looked up at him then, pupils dilated to the max with just a ring of those bright green irises. Enji moaned again.. gods the way he looked, his dreads all over the place, saliva dripping down his chin, not to mention.. he could hear how wet he was. It was a sensory overload in all the right ways.

Thrax didn’t let up from his ministrations and continued engulfing and letting go of Enji, humming a bit as he closed his eyes again. The foxtail’s ears laid back then as the pit in his stomach finally burned with life and orgasm took hold. He cried out, his back arching hard off the ground. That didn’t stop Thrax though..

The red pathogen moved both hands to Enji’s thighs and held him there while he continued, the foxtail bucking a bit wildly as he attempted to get away from that scalding mouth but couldn’t. Once the orgasm was done, Enji collapsed in a heap of panting and curses, using his forearm to cover his eyes as he did so.

“Fuck, baby..” The foxtail whispered, soon sitting up to look at him. Thrax smirked a bit, pulling off of Enji’s cock finally and sitting up on his hands and knees. He opened his mouth and let his tongue fall out, showing off that not a drop of Enji’s essence went to waste, as he had swallowed it all. Enji beamed a bit then and cupped his cheek a little, “That’s a good boy~”

Thrax shuddered from the praise, then turned his head and kissed the palm by his face.

But it wasn’t enough yet.. Thrax shoved Enji back down and moved over him, his hips hovering just above Enji’s as his hand reached back and took hold of his lover’s cock once more. “Are ya ready for me, baby?~” He asked as he looked down at Enji, who bit the inside of his lip and nodded, hands on Thrax’s thighs.

The red pathogen then moved and sank himself down onto Enji’s girth, his brows furrowing together as he whimpered a bit. He bit his lip and soon took Enji all the way to the hilt, moaning softly at how nice and snug he sat inside. Thrax felt Enji twitching and he snickered a little bit, soon slowly lifting up his hips and then moving them back down.. up.. down..

Enji whined from the slow pace, his eyes rolling back as the pads of his fingers dug into Thrax’s thighs. “Babyyy.. come on, don’t do me like that..” he groaned, closing his eyes as he felt that heat start to pool in his stomach again. Thrax just continued, wondering if he could pull out that demon that laid dormant in Enji so often.. the one that left him breathless, begging and a total mess. With enough of his teasing, he was sure he could get it to come to life once more..

In.. out.. iiiin… out..

It was absolutely killing Enji. The foxtail growled, absolutely hating this slow pace. Thrax knew it was getting to him.

After a few more moments of the slow ministrations, something snapped in Enji and he flipped them, pinning Thrax down to the ground on the blanket before lifting one of his legs up as he started to snap his hips nice and hard. It was already making the red virus roll his eyes back as he dug his claws into the ground, biting his lip hard. God was he gonna be sore tomorrow..

Enji soon moved a hand down and used his thumb to rub Thrax’s clit, growling darkly as he continued to fuck the pathogen into oblivion. Thrax was trying really hard not to be loud, but by god it was hard.. Enji hit all the right spots in him, and the way the head of his cock was kissing his cervix.. by the gods it was absolute bliss.

Enji’s pace never failed, never faltered.. the repetition was key, and it already pulled Thrax into a mini orgasm alone. He whined as his body was wracked with electricity, his eyes rolling back for a moment as he did so. But that wasn’t even close to the end.. Enji flipped him over onto his stomach and pulled his hips up so they were hiked up in the air, the perfect level for Enji to hit deep inside of him. Thrax just let it all loose then, curses, moans, whines, everything escaping his throat as he screwed his eyes shut. His claws were practically about to tear through the blanket as he was pounded into it, feeling a second and certainly more intense orgasm coming on.

The foxtail didn’t let up for even a second, his hands holding onto the virus’ hips as he leaned down and started to bite and mark his lover up, claiming him as his own. “Who do you belong to, Daddy..” Enji growled out, teeth bared. Thrax turned his head to look at him, his expression saying everything. “You, baby.. you.. I-I’m all yours..”

Enji smiled then and continued his bites, his kisses, his loving. It was all getting to be too much for the pair of them, and Enji didn’t dare to pull out. Thrax took no notice as finally, that wave of white hit him and his whole body went rigid. He choked back a moan, his hands gripping the blanket below him hard and pulling up on the grass beneath it as curses flew from his mouth.

The tightness around Enji made his pace waver until finally, he was spilling every last drop of his essence into Thrax, filling the poor thing up to the hilt. After a few more pert thrusts, Enji finally pulled out and collapsed down next to Thrax, whose legs gave out under him and he laid down flat now.

All that could be heard was their breathing.. soft, sweet.. after a while, the pair looked at each other and finally moved, tangling in each other’s embrace and giving soft kisses and loving words.

“I love you..” Came from the red pathogen again. Enji looked at him, and smiled softly this time as he reached and pet his cheek gently.

“I love you too, Firebug.. I will love you forever and for always..” Enji responded, running a thumb over the crest of Thrax’s cheek as they looked into each other’s eyes. Icy blue stared right into acidic gold, soon both sets of eyes closing as they listened to the sounds of the night train chugging on through the valley..

Come on, baby, let’s go listen to the night train..

[random-thot-generator]

Dirty Little Secret + Pt. 5

JOHNNY 'SOAP' MACTAVISH x FEM READER

-

Summary: A trip to Brighton ends up with you stranded on the side of the road. But have no fear, Johnny's here!

Warnings/Tags: Profanity, bit of Fluff to keep you warm, Johnny saves the day, Reader's beginning to come around, No use of Y/N

(Notes: You know me. I can't stay away from the feels and warm fuzzies. This is just two old lovers finally getting to know one another.)

Word Count: 1.9K

-

"Love, I need ya to go to Brighton for me t'morrow," Aunt Rue announced over dinner. "Eddie texted me earlier and said he found an original gear shift knob for the MG, but he won't be able to get away for at least another week. He offered to send it through the post, but I don't trust 'em not to lose it."

"What about the bakery?" you asked. You were scheduled to work in the morning.

"I already called Lou. She'll cover for ya."

You shrugged. "Sure, okay."

She smiled at you, patting your hand. "Yer a doll. Thanks, love."

The next morning, you rolled your scooter out of the work shed, doing a quick check before throwing your leg over the seat. It was a vintage, mint-green 1962 Vespa you received for your sixteenth birthday from your aunt, probably your most prized possession.

Donning your helmet, you started her up and set off for Brighton, a giddy grin on your face. The feeling you were experiencing was akin to playing hooky from school. It was a beautiful day for a ride, and it had been ages since you'd taken your scooter further than Kilroy, so you planned to make the most of it.

You made it to Eddie's custom shop in good time despite the traffic, retrieved the part, then took a brief lunch break at the Brighton Pier before heading back home. You were in no hurry to get back, enjoying the seaside scenery as you reveled in the pure exhilaration of traveling the open road. At least, you were enjoying it until a lorry almost turned you into a greasy smear on the asphalt.

You just barely managed to keep the Vespa upright, slewing off the road, the motor rattling to an abrupt halt as you flung a leg out to keep yourself from getting thrown arse over tea kettle. Heart pounding, you glared after the speeding truck through a cloud of dust, a string of curses flying out of your mouth as you stripped the helmet from your head.

"Ya mad bastard!" you shouted at the lorry, shoving the kickstand down with your foot. Climbing off the scooter, you staggered a bit as your shaking legs struggled to support you. "Bloody hell!" you gasped, grabbing onto the seat to keep your balance.

Adrenaline coursed through your veins, making you feel nauseous enough to bend at the waist and plant your shaking hands on your trembling knees. As you fought to keep down your fish and chips from lunch, you pulled in long, steady breaths to help slow your racing heart.

Once you felt calm enough to stand upright again, you blew out a long exhale, then turned to check over your scooter. "Fuck," you muttered, spotting the rear flat tire immediately.

You were still about twenty miles outside of Kilroy, and there was no way you'd be able to push the Vespa that far. You'd have to call for help. Taking out your phone with another muttered curse, you called Aunt Rue.

"Heavens, love!" she exclaimed, when you told her what had happened. "Thank goodness you're alright. Just sit tight. I'll send someone t'come get ya right away."

"Thanks, Aunt Rue." You put your phone away and slumped down beside the Vespa to wait.

Within five minutes, you received a text from Rue saying someone was on their way, though she didn't say who to expect. Not that it mattered to you. So long as they had a way to transport your scooter, that's all you cared about.

That's what you thought, anyway, until a familiar black truck pulled off the road, coming to a stop in front of you. Sighing out a resigned breath, you climbed to your feet and stepped forward to greet him.

"Bonnie!" Johnny called as soon as he got out of his truck, rushing up to you to take you by the shoulders. "Are ye a'right, sweetheart?" he asked, looking you over with an anxious expression.

"I'm fine," you assured him. "Just a bit shaken up."

His hands kneaded at your shoulders, worry etched into his face. "Christ, I damn near keeled over when yer aunt tol' me wha' happened." His hands tightened on your shoulders before he pulled you into his chest, arms wrapping around you in a vice-like hug. "Thank Christ yer a'right," he breathed out, resting his cheek against your head.

Your arms came up on instinct to encircle his waist, letting him hold you for a moment. You couldn't deny that being in Johnny's arms was a huge comfort, and after the frightening close call you'd just had, you allowed yourself to briefly indulge in his strength and reassurance.

The two of remained that way for several more moments, before you gathered the strength to pull away, feeling slightly embarrassed by your own behavior. Avoiding eye contact, you planted your hands on your hips and turned to look at your scooter instead. "Do, um... Do you have any straps to tie her down with?" you asked, sounding as sheepish as you felt.

Johnny nodded slowly, taking note of the change in your demeanor. "Aye. We'll get her loaded up and get ya home. C'mon, hen."

The two of you wrestled your scooter into the back of his truck, Johnny getting her strapped down, double-checking the straps to make sure she was secure. "She should be good t'go," he said, hopping out of the truck bed.

Once you were back on the road, you blew out a tired breath and slouched into the passenger seat, closing your eyes. The two of you rode in silence, the sound of the wind whipping through the cab of the truck and the warmth of the sun hitting your face soothing your frayed nerves.

"Tha's a nice scooter ye got," Johnny said, casting a glance your way. "How long ya been ridin'?"

A little smile graced your lips as you slit open your eyes. "Aunt Rue got her for me when I was sixteen. She was my first real taste of freedom."

"Aye, ken what ye mean. Me da got me an' me brother dirt bikes. Tore up the countryside on those bikes. Used 'em to herd the sheep, too," he said with a laugh.

"Sheep?" you repeated, giggling. "You were a sheep herder?" An image of Johnny holding a shepherd's crook popped into your head.

He chuckled self-consciously, nodding. "Aye. Grew up on a sheep farm. Still canna smell sheep shite without thinkin' o' home."

You snorted out a soft laugh, your curiosity getting the better of you. "So, how many siblings do you have?"

"There's five o' us, countin' meself; me three sisters an' me brother, James. Brianne's the auldest, then Emmie, me, James and Sorcha."

"Ooh, you're the middle child. God, your poor mum. Bet you drove her bonkers."

He huffed a laugh and nodded. "Aye. 'Twas always gettin' up t'some sort o' mischief with James when we were lads. Least, until one o' me sisters tol' on us. Brianne was the worst, way meaner than our mam, always scoldin' us an' boxin' our ears. She's married an' got her own brood t'deal with now. Guess me an' the others were good practice fer her."

You sniffed in amusement, easily imagining him as a cute, blue-eyed boy with messy, dark hair and a devilish grin, no doubt an absolute terror. "Must've been nice, having a big family. I always wanted a sister, but..." You shrugged, leaving the thought to hang in the air.

He slanted a glance your way before focusing back on the road again. "Yer aunt, she mentioned that she raised ya," he said, keeping his voice soft and low.

A slight crease formed between your brows. "Yeah. My da dumped me on her doorstep when I was eight. Said he'd be back to get me, but never showed. I think after mum took off, he just couldn't cope with a kid on his own. So, Aunt Rue took me in. Can't complain, though. She gave me a better life than I ever had with them. Don't think either of them really wanted kids."

Johnny was quiet for a moment, brows tipped together. "Ya ever thought 'bout havin' wee'uns o' yer own?"

You tilted your chin up in thought. "Didn't used to think so. Had this whole glamorous life planned out for myself; ya know— successful career woman living it up in London. After being on my own in Hereford, though..." You sighed, shook your head. "I thought I'd love living in the city, but honestly I was miserable there. I'm not a city girl; I learned that much about myself. It gave me a whole new appreciation for Kilroy, once I moved back. Guess I'll always just be a simple village lass, but I'm okay with it, now. Feel more like myself than I have in years."

He hummed, nodding. "Aye, I ken wha' ya mean. No' much fer the city, either. 'S like livin' in a bloody rat maze, everyone packed t'gether." He gave a shake of his head. 'S no' fer me. Dinnae like livin' in Hereford. 'S jus' a convenience, close t'the base."

You entered Kilroy soon after and directed him to your aunt's cottage on the outskirts of the village. You could see his eyes taking in the cottage and land as you helped him unload the Vespa. "This is a nice place, bonnie," he commented, eyes still scanning the property.

"Yeah. Aunt Rue loves it here; me, too. Belonged to my grandparents. Needs a lot of work, though, especially the cottage."

Johnny studied the stone structure, noting the missing and broken shingles on the roof, the dry rot around the eaves and windows. "Aye. Could use a bit o' TLC."

You sniffed. "It could use a lot of TLC, but the money to pay for it is the problem." You shrugged. "We'll get it done, eventually."

Johhny gave you a sidelong look. "So, ya plan on stayin', then? Permanently, here in Kilroy, I mean."

You thought about it and then nodded. "Yeah. I think I am. It's home, ya know?"

His bobbed his head slowly, considering your words, then he heaved out a breath and offered you a smile. "D"ya need a ride into the village?"

You shook your head. "Nah. Lou's covering my shift at the bakery today. Think I'll stay here, give the Vespa a going over, get that flat tire off." You shifted awkwardly on your feet. "I, uh... Thanks for the lift back and helping with my scooter. I can give you a few quid for petrol or—"

He waved off your offer with a scoff. "'Twere nothin', bonnie. Was glad t'do it. " He seemed a bit awkward himself before finally stepping forward to give you a quick hug and peck on the cheek. "'M glad yer a'right, bonnie."

With that, he stepped back a few steps, his cheeky smile appearing before giving you a wink. "I'll see ya later, sweetheart," he said, then climbed back into his truck, cranked the motor and steered it back onto the road. He thrust his big arm out the window to give you a final wave before disappearing down the narrow lane.

Your hand drifted up to your face, fingers brushing over the spot where he'd kissed you, a little smile pulling up the corners of your mouth. You found yourself looking forward to seeing him again.

"See ya later, Johnny."

-

part 4 part 6

[limerental]

ficletvember 2023 - day 24

ciri & her messed up parents modern au ft. yenralt

For the first time in years and with great trepidation, Ciri returns home for a holiday family gathering.

aka I'm pushing my ciri as jenny from thebes agena

Ciri dropped the kickstand of her bike and worked her stiff fingers in and out of fists, regretting her smart-looking fingerless gloves after miles of chilled highway. The driveway and street out front of the little house was full, and somebody had slung lights up on the eaves and chucked a crooked wreath on the door. 

Half the cars she didn't recognize, but then, she hadn't been back for years.

A little tabby hurried up the walk to meet her, tail raised high, and Ciri swung off her bike to drop to meet her. Scratching behind her ears, she tipped up an oversized tag on her collar to read– of course.

Roach nudged at the laces of her boots and purred.

For all the things that did, some things never changed.

When Mama had called to tell her they were doing family Yuletide dinner, Ciri had laughed out loud. Couldn't help it. She couldn't imagine her Mama home-cooking anything without some disaster happening. When she was little, Mama used to peel the label off store-bought jam to give as gifts to her teachers. They’d always gotten takeout on the important holidays. Eaten quiet together washed by the glow of the TV. 

Those were the good holidays. The bad ones were loud.

Daddy home late from a shift he claimed he wouldn't take this year. Mama red-eyed and yelling. She looked like she could call down lightning sometimes when she was real mad, black hair frizzed out and wild, and Daddy usually got that stubborn gleam in his eye and put his foot in his mouth and then–

There were great holidays too, of course. Her years spent with Pops and her uncles in the mountains, bundled up like a marshmallow for hunting trips and coming in out of the cold to a feast laid out by the roaring fire. There'd been times with her cousins from the islands, learning to ice skate and rev a snowmobile.

And there'd been great times with her parents too. Just never together under the same roof. That's when it soured. 

There'd been that year that she and her dad went camping in the middle of fuck-all nowhere. Just them and their bikes and the fog and shitty freeze-dried army rations cooked out of bags. That'd been nice.

And the year Mama took her to the city, bought tickets to a show and let her dress up fancy, a little slutty, and ate takeout in their opulent hotel room after, gossiping and giggling like little girls at a sleepover. That'd been a night she remembered so fondly it ached.

But there'd never been great times in this house. Mama had lived here in Vengerberg forever, and Daddy had lived here in a rotation of years on and off and Ciri had lived here when she wasn't off at school but always done her best to find other places to go. 

The first chance she could, she was gone. That escape came with its own measure of fucked up nights and bad times, but that was another story. Ciri had clawed her way out of several dark places and had figured she'd keep doing that forever.

She'd never seen her Mama's place with Yule lights on the eaves. Couldn't quite remember why no one had ever decorated. Maybe just to be stubborn and miserable. Any time they'd tried, it became a fight. The same as anything.

Ciri made herself go up the front walk, climbing the stoop and just standing there looking at the crooked greenery on the door. She reached out and straightened it rather than knocking.

She wished she'd brought somebody with her. Someone to stand here with a hand at the small of her back and make the decision to go in for her. She'd been told on the phone she could bring a guest, her Mama's voice dipping in question like she wanted to ask who she was with now but had thought better of it. 

Ciri didn't have anybody. Maybe never had anyone.

She knocked on the door and didn't wait for the answer, just pushed in. Roach leapt past her legs, and the gathering in the front room that rambled out into the dining room all exclaimed with joy when they saw her. Some of the people who clapped her on the back or called a greeting were unfamiliar, but maybe she'd just forgotten or they'd shaved their beard or dyed their hair.

The rooms were hung with garland around the doorways, and music swelled from somewhere. The light was warm, and the space was full.

After being released from the umpteenth bear hug, somebody told her that her parents were in the kitchen finishing up dinner. They laughed over the mock-scared face she pulled, but the way her heartbeat kicked up, it was barely a joke.

The kitchen was too small for much of anything. Daddy always said he'd take out that half wall and give it some breathing room, but there'd been hemming and hawing over details and then a bitterness that it never got done and then a grudge and a stubborn insistence it wasn't necessary anyway to expand a kitchen no one stepped foot in.

Now, every bit of counter space was swathed with foil covered dishes. Enough to feed an army. Ciri felt a little pang of guilt that maybe they'd been waiting for her.

Mama and Daddy were standing at the stove together. Daddy with his white hair tied back, wearing a kiss the cook apron, and Mama looking short as hell in her stocking feet stirring a pot of something on the stove. 

They spoke quiet together, heads bent close. Daddy's hand rested at her waist and when she cut the burner and turned to him, he dropped a kiss into her hair. They swayed together, a vision of opposites. Rising up out of Ciri's muck-stained memories like a mirage. 

Mama short and fat and happy. Daddy stooping a little to rest his chin against her cloud of dark hair. 

It didn't seem wholly fair. That after everything, after all those ruined holidays, everything she fled from, her parents should claw their way to something as peaceful and real as this. Something that felt different.

Ciri hadn't believed it when Mama told her. That something was different this time. But she believed it now, as much as she could believe anything at all. 

The tabby weaved between her legs and meowed after a piece of ham, and her parents looked up and turned her way, faces brimming with wet smiles, and when they opened their arms together, she fell into them and held tight to both, hoping someday she'd look back on this year as one of the great ones. Fighting back the bitterness like a cold and solid wave.

[davycoquette]

nothing, like something, happens anywhere

His machine rumbles between your legs. You tilt your body one way; the motorcycle leans with you. The whole world leans with you. The thin veil between life and death is gnarled in the wheels and his blood is frigid cold drying against your skin and you looked him in the eyes back there, and never saw the light fade.

But it will. 

That’s what you think.

His brother is the last real family he’s got, as far as you know. He has to come out and bury him; nobody else is gonna do it. Maybe his old momma will come around to cry, but the brother will show for sure. And you’ll kill him, too. Maybe you’ll shed a tear for the poor lady, losing both her kids like that — but they were no account people. A criminal and a nobody. Same as if somebody killed you! Your momma wouldn’t like it, but her tears don’t stop the world from turning.

Lou waits, parked off the side of a long gravel road. You finagle the motorcycle into his camper together and pour your bloody clothes in a metal bucket. You wipe him off you with alcohol pads and throw those in, too.

“He didn’t die,” you tell him.

Lou has a fresh shirt for you in his arms but stops out of your reach.

“What?”

“He wasn’t dead.”

“Fuck me, Shy — how hard is it to stab somebody to death?” He pantomimes gutting somebody with the same big mitt he used to pull you off the street a long time ago.

He’s probably dead now. This is how you should mollify Loïk Lazore. But you don’t feel sure enough to say it. Maybe he did make it to the hospital. Maybe he has a few words left in him; so what? What can he say?

“It’s…” You turn and look at the machine leaning heavily on its kickstand. “It’s not like riding a bike, Lou. Not like swimming.” You drop onto his bed and ignore the hiss he sucks between his teeth — he’s worried about DNA again. “You can get out of practice.”

“You get plenty of practice.”

“What does DNA stand for?”

“Huh?”

“I bet you don’t even know.”

“I bet you don’t,” he grumbles. He knows it’s useless berating you now. He knows he’s not going to infect you with his paranoia.

You doze for a spell, and when he’s already behind the wheel and the road is stretching long ahead and long behind, you say to nobody, “I don’t know.”

And you don’t know, either, that you’re leaving behind everything you ever knew. That you’re riding into the unknown, into endless possibility, into brighter sunrises than you could ever imagine.

tagging @saturnine-saturneight 🤠