#ha what a loser he made a statue to get head pats

[nyuta1509]

Worship

I've always wanted to make a painting that shows intimacy of Hua Cheng's devotion

[sungbeam]

𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞

gamer/streamer!choi beomgyu x f!reader

1.5k words, fluff/comfort, reader has hair long enough for a claw clip, strawberries, est. relationship au, the background info dump in the beginning was for my own entertainment tbh

Choi Beomgyu loved you.

Sometimes he wondered how you could possibly love someone like him—a loser who streamed League half the day away, lived in his pajamas, and dropped out of college to play video games for hundreds of thousands of people online. He barely went out of the house, unless it was to touch grass, but he had managed to snag your attention nonetheless.

He liked to joke that you were in it for his celebrity status. It was made all the more ironic, since you had no idea who he was when he'd first introduced himself to you in the self-checkout aisle of a grocery store, and you'd stared at him like he was high. Beomgyu, humbled to all hell, had stuttered out an apology and bowed about ninety degrees—then asked for your number like a normal person.

Ah, good times.

He'd then somehow mustered up enough swagger to date you for two years and counting. And now, you were moved in and got to hear him yell at a handful of computer monitors for twelve hours a day. (Love was funny, wasn't it?)

But if forever was the sweetest con, then dear god, he hoped he could pull this one off.

It was during one of his streams that he heard the front door slam from his office. He had just finished a round, and when he had heard the door but not your voice, he pushed back from his desk so he could lean back and give you a holler. "Yn! Yn-ie! Babyyyyy!"

He waited a beat.

A frown curled his mouth downward when he didn't hear your reply. Uh oh.

Tongue in cheek, Beomgyu used his feet to bring him back to his computer screen. His eyes flickered with the pace at which his chat flew past. "Hey chat, I need to check up on my girl. I'll be right back. Go get a snack or something."

With that, he dumped his headset onto the desk and raced out of the office.

He flew out into the main living space of the apartment, his eyes scanning the premises for you. With both of your incomes combined, the two of you managed to live comfortably in a nice apartment complex just north of the main city center. You both shared a bedroom and bathroom, while also getting separate, small office spaces. You used yours a lot less than he did his, but it was nice to have one in case.

Instead of your figure, he found your keys and shoes by the door, and a grocery bag on the island counter.

He backpedaled over to the bedroom next, head poking into the darkened room. His voice came out low, "Babe, you here?"

"Yeah," came your small response.

He tracked it to the bathroom, where you were hunched over your sink in the dark, your hair pulled back in a claw clip. Your face was damp like you had just washed it, but he didn't miss the way you were wiping at your eyes. Something sank in his chest, something heavy that made his body slump in dread.

"Sorry, I didn't wanna bother you," you said, forcing stability into your voice, even if it still shook a little.

You reached for your facial towel to hide your melancholy, but Beomgyu liked to think he paid more attention than you were giving him credit for.

He wrapped his arms around your middle from behind, pressing a kiss to the side of your head. "Hey, you're never a bother; you know that," he replied softly. "What's wrong, hm? How can I help?"

Your body shook with a sob as you cried into the towel. Beomgyu's chest clenched at the sound, at the feeling. God, he was right here, and yet, he felt so helpless, so useless. "It's nothing—I… I just… I'm just tired," you managed to say.

You sniffled, avoiding his eyes in the dark mirror as you set the towel aside and began washing your face again.

Beomgyu pursed his lips and sucked in a breath. "Yn-ie, you know I'm not just gonna let you go to sleep this upset, baby."

When you'd patted your face dry again, you were left with reddened, puffy eyes. You turned around to press your face into his warm chest. His arms looped around you like second nature to hold you to him.

Beomgyu gently smoothed a hand over the back of your head, letting the tension from the claw clip loosen the headache no doubt forming in your cranium. He clipped the accessory to his belt loop, quietly trying to calm your muffled cries. "Come on. Let's get some food into your stomach, okay? It'll make you feel better."

He led you out to the kitchen, helping you onto one of the bar stools while he rummaged through the grocery bag you brought home. His chest panged when he imagined you going through the grocery store while holding back tears. Had you cried there, or perhaps it had all come flooding out here?

There were a few things to add to the fridge, but he found a carton of big, red strawberries at the bottom of the bag. He released a breath he didn't realize he had been holding in—you'd managed to get yourself something. Good. He was glad.

Usually in your shared household, you were the one to wash and cut and peel fruit for him. You fed him all the healthy things, kept him a normal functioning human being. You kept him sane.

So Beomgyu took the carton of strawberries out of the bag and transferred them to a colander to be washed. He then carefully sliced the stems off each berry, sliced them into halves, until the colander was empty and the bowl he had on the counter, filled.

He wiped his hands on the towel hanging below the sink, then brought the bowl of glistening red fruit before you.

"For you," he murmured, one warm palm pressed between your shoulder blades, his lips brushing a kiss to your hairline. "I'll be right back."

Beomgyu hurried back to the office to find his viewers waiting.

He braced his arm on the desk, forgoing sitting down in the chair. He swept a lock of his long hair out of his eyes as he skimmed some of the live comments in the chat. A huff of laughter, then a shake of his head. "You guys are so weird. I'm signing off for the night though—no, I don't owe you an explanation... Okay, it's my baby—yeah, yeah, I see you rampaging in the comments, Chenle."

Beomgyu wrinkled his nose playfully. "I'm not a fuckin' simp, you losers. At least I have a partner. Okay, whatever. Later, guys."

He turned off the stream with a tap of his mouse, and then he was back by your side. You seemed to have calmed down a little, but what lacked your sobbing came a sad, startling quiet. Quiet from you wasn't unusual per se, but this one felt empty.

Beomgyu stood behind your stool, one of his arms curling around your middle as he peered over your shoulder at the bowl. You'd eaten a few slices of the fruit while he was gone, but it wasn't as much as he had hoped you would have eaten.

He released a light exhale, reaching for a strawberry slice and popping it into his mouth. He leaned his head against yours. "Wanna snuggle?" He asked you quietly.

A small smile pulled at the corners of your mouth, and he mentally high-fived himself. "Is that a yes?" He gasped with a childlike excitement. "You wanna snuggle with me?"

You nodded, not trusting your voice just yet, but that was okay. He heard you loud and clear.

You turned on the stool so you could wrap your limbs around his body.

Beomgyu cooed softly. "My sweet baby. I'm so sorry you have to feel this way." He kissed your head again, his arms shifting so he could hoist your body up and carry you over to the sofa with him.

He collapsed onto the sofa with a melodramatic grunt, then flopped backward so you were lying on top of his chest. He wondered, with your ear pressed against him, if you could hear just how much your proximity affected him. Even after all this time. If, maybe, you felt even a fraction of what he felt for you (just a fraction would make his heart soar). There was no way you didn't, right?

He wrapped both arms around you with a sigh. "I know you don't want to talk about it," he murmured, "just know it'll be alright. All of it. Even if it seems like the world is falling apart, even if you feel like a failure—you will get through this. I know you can; I know you will."

Your first words since earlier to him came at almost an inaudible volume. "And if I can't? What then?"

"Then I'll be here to help you," he answered. Yes, that was it. His breath was warm against your cheek, against your ear. "I'll always be here."

txt m.list

permanent taglist: @tayunji @im-a-big-mess @honeyhuii @y3jiishot @crazywittysassy @seomisaho @stopeatread @enhacolor @rnjfy @jaehunnyy @kpopjackie @spiderrenjunfics @soobin-chois @stayarmytinyzenmoa-l @mingiholic @ja4hyvn @vatterie @yogurteume @hyunjaespresent-deobi @justanotherkpopstanlol @w3bqrl @super-btstrash-posts @hibernatinghamster @otchae @bigballsz @shakalakaboomboo @ashxxkook @kpop718 @ethereal-engene @soonyoungblr @wtfhyuck @kflixnet

[mjsakurea]

love them all for me - a fic and character study

He is barely a teenager when he is brought to Koi Tower where he meets a gentle young woman mourning the deaths of her husband and adoptive brother. She shares soup and stories of love and loss.

Or

Jiang Yanli sees a struggling young Mo Xuanyu and asks “is no one else going to adopt him?” and does not wait for an answer.

Continue reading below or read on AO3

He is brought to Koi Tower when he is barely a teenager. He had never left the village he grew up in before. His mother had told him stories of the luxuries of Koi Tower—she had always hoped he would get to live here someday. It is her aspirations for him that leads him to agree to the sect leader’s offer to be educated here. She is beaming when he glances back at her before answering.

“I am so proud of you. You are going to do great things, I just know it,” she says later that evening during dinner, the last evening he will spend with her.

The next morning, he is escorted by men in shining golden robes to a horse-drawn wagon. He looks back at his mother as she waves him goodbye with a smiling mouth and teary eyes. She is the only one from his village who came to wish him off. He steps into the wagon. Before long, the driver urges the horse to move and then he is off to his new life.

He arrives at Koi Tower early the next day. Having slept through most of the ride, he is only awoken by the wagon pulling to a stop. The men in gold fling open the curtain of the wagon and usher him out. In quick succession, he is shown to his new room, thrown in a bath, and has new robes flung at him before he is left alone.

He is told he will be awoken and escorted to classes tomorrow—cultivation classes no less. The day passes slowly. He explores his room and all the amenities it provides. He is brought lunch and dinner, more delicious than anything he had tasted before. When it is time for bed, he cannot sleep. His heart races anticipating the excitement of the next day. Instead, he sits at a low table and writes a letter to his mother. He will add to it tomorrow after classes to tell her how they were. After he recounts the events of the day, he settles down in bed, more relaxed after writing the letter.

It is too early—in his opinion—when the knock comes on his door. He dresses quickly in the golden robes he was given. They fit perfectly like they were tailored to him personally. He joins his classmates for breakfast before lessons start for the day. They chatter with each other amicably around the table, occasionally glancing out of the corner of their eyes at the newcomer, some hide a laugh behind their sleeves, some don’t bother to hide it. He is made aware of his status here: an outsider. He focuses on the delicious meal and blocks them out.

Laughter and whispers echo in the lessons just as at breakfast. He tries to tune them out once again. He struggles through the lessons, hastily taking notes he does not understand. His peers have been in the same classes long before he arrived and already know all the foundations. No one offers to help him get caught up.

When he returns to his room for the evening, he is exhausted, more emotionally than physically. He was supposed to join sword training after dinner but, unlike all the other teenagers, he does not have his own sword. The teacher had told him to sit out and watch today, and he would look for a spare one for him tomorrow. He thinks of continuing his letter but decides against it; he does not have any good stories to add from today. He sniffles as he curls up in bed and falls asleep.

A week passes much the same as the first day had. A letter from his mother being the only redeeming event. She writes that she hopes he is making friends. He wishes he could say he had been, but that is far from the truth. He does not reply to her. He does not send the other letter he has been working on either.

On a rare day off, he takes a stroll in the Jin sect gardens. It is tranquil and calming. The gardens are one of his favorite places he has discovered here so far. The quiet is suddenly broken by the sound of snickering. He whirls around. A few of his classmates are standing down the path behind him.

“What are you doing here? You don’t belong here,” one of them says.

“No sword, not even a golden core, you’re such a loser,” another taunts.

“Leave me alone,” he attempts softly. They laugh and walk closer. Two of them flank his left and right. He glances between the three frantically.

“Descended from a servant, you’ll never amount to anything,” the boy in front of him snarls before shoving him roughly.

“You’re a disgrace to your family, better fit to be a servant like your ancestors.”

The boy on his right shoves him, then the boy on his left. Their laughter surrounds him. Tears prickle at his eyes. He wants to scream.

“Enough!” a light yet commanding voice calls. He is given one final shove which sends him to the ground before the trio back away from him. He looks up to see a young woman in white robes approach.

“Madam Jiang,” all three of them utter before bending in a hasty bow. She strides over and helps pull him to his feet with a kind smile. Then, she turns to the three bullies with ice in her eyes.

“Apologize to him,” she demands.

“But—”

“Apologize. You three have been disrespectful and that is unacceptable. He is your classmate, and he earned his place here just as much as you did, evidently more so if this is how you behave. You should be ashamed of yourselves. Now apologize and go home and think about your words here.”

“We’re sorry!” the three say simultaneously. They turn and run off. She turns back to him, and he holds his breath before her icy glare melts into a soft smile once again. She bends down to his level.

“Are you okay?” she asks. He quickly wipes his eyes and nods. “I’m sorry they were mean to you, please tell me if they bother you again, okay? Are you hungry? I just made some soup, join me for lunch?” he nods again.

She takes his hand and leads him to a small, enclosed courtyard within the main palace. There is a small bridge over a lotus pond with lotus blossoms in full bloom. Next to the pond is a covered gazebo with a stone table in the center surrounded by stone chairs. She tells him to sit down and wait while she fetches the soup. She returns with a tray carrying a large, covered bowl and two smaller bowls with spoons. She sets the tray on the table and sits down. As soon as she lifts the lid of the larger bowl, the amazing smell makes his mouth water. She serves up two bowls of the soup and hands one to him. He digs in impatiently.

“Do you like it?” she asks. His mouth is too full to answer so he nods. She smiles. “I’m glad. It’s lotus root and pork rib soup. It is—was A-Xia—my brother’s favorite.” her smile remains, but her eyes are cloudy and downcast. She sits in silence for a long moment before speaking again, “my brother was teased for being the son of a servant when he was your age, but he went on to do great things. So, don’t let anyone make fun of you for your heritage, okay? You remind me of him, so I’m sure you’ll go on to do great things, as well.”

“Your brother, um will you—” he begins, “will you tell me about him?”

Her smile grows as she brings her eyes up to meet his. “I would love nothing more.”

And so, she tells him about her brother. She starts at the very beginning when he was adopted into her family after living on the streets. She talks of fights with her other brother and hiding up in trees so the dogs would not get him. She speaks of the first time she made him his favorite soup. She tells him about his natural-born talent for cultivation and his fast promotion to first disciple. She describes her brother’s early life story, and he listens, enraptured, soup long since finished.

She is in the middle of another story when a handmaiden comes out to the courtyard.

“Madam Jiang, A-Ling has woken up from his nap and seems hungry,” she informs.

“Ah has it already been that long? I am sorry my young friend, but I must be getting back. Would you like me to finish the story tomorrow?”

He nods enthusiastically.

“Alright, how about you meet me out here when you are done with your classes?”

Nodding once again, he smiles. Finally, something to look forward to. She returns his smile and pats his head. Then, she turns and follows the handmaiden into the palace.

After she leaves, he returns to his room. He pulls out his unfinished letter to his mother and begins to add to it. He writes about his classes but leaves out the unpleasant parts. Mostly, he talks about his encounter today with the nice Madam Jiang and his plans to meet her again. When he finishes the letter, he leaves his room and takes it to the mail carrier to be delivered in the coming days. He returns to his room with a smile on his face. Once he returns, he readies for bed and falls into the best sleep he has had since he arrived in Koi Tower.

True to his word, he goes to the courtyard after lessons are over the next day. She is already waiting for him with a baby cradled in her arms. There is a plate of dumplings on the stone table. He sits down excitedly. She tells him to help himself to some dumplings.

“Now where was I? Oh yes—” she continues her story where she left off the day before. He listens with unwavering attention while snacking on a dumpling.

After she finishes her story, she asks him how his classes were today. He tells her the truth: they were confusing, and he still does not have a grasp on the material as everyone else does.

“Hmm, do you have any homework today?”

He nods.

“Why don’t you take it out and I’ll see if I can help you with it,” she says. So, he pulls out his notes and homework from the day. She takes each of the papers with one hand and examines them before setting them back down on the table.

“So, what is it you are confused about most?” she asks. He tries to explain what it is that he does not understand. She listens patiently and nods at the right moments. She does not speak until he is done talking, never interrupting. When he does finish, she thinks for a moment. Then, she starts giving a more simplified explanation of the difficult concepts he had tried to explain. With her explanations, the pieces finally begin to click into place. Things start to make sense that never had before. As she ends her explanation, he pulls out a brush and ink and grabs his homework. He completes it in record time. She sits patiently smiling at him while she rocks the sleeping infant in her arms. When he finishes it, she takes it from him to look it over. He waits with bated breath.

“It looks good,” she says with a smile, handing the papers back to him. He beams at the praise. He puts away the papers, ink, and brushes. He grabs another dumpling and stuffs it into his mouth.

“Well, I don’t want to keep you—”

“No, one more story!” he interrupts, “if that’s okay,” he tacks on more quietly at the end.

“Okay, one more and then you should head home before it gets too late,” she says. He agrees, and she begins to tell another tale of her and her brother’s childhood, this one about summer days spent out on the lake picking lotus seed pods and getting into splash fights until someone inevitably fell into the lake.

She finishes her story and glances out at the small lotus pond next to the gazebo. “These pods should be ripe soon; I can show you how to pick some then maybe. Anyway, you should be heading back now,” she says.

He nods but hesitates to leave.

“Would you like to come back tomorrow?” she sees right through his silently pleading eyes.

“Yes, please,” he says.

“Alright, I’ll see you then,” she says and waves as he runs off.

He comes back tomorrow, and the next day, and the day after that. She is there waiting for him every day, sometimes with her son, sometimes alone. Every day there is a different snack waiting for him at the stone table, as well. They continue the same routine: she asks him about his classes and helps him with homework or studying and then tells him a story before he heads home for the day. He improves greatly in class, finally catching up with his peers. His classmates slowly start to treat him as an equal. He is no longer the last one picked in group projects. Casual conversations begin to include him. His days become enjoyable—the time spent with Madam Jiang being his favorite part of each day.

As time progresses, there are days he does not get to visit her. She takes regular trips to Lotus Pier. He misses her during those trips, but she always brings him back a souvenir to lift his spirits. She also always returns with more stories—the time spent back home never failing to refresh old memories.

Months pass in a flash. He notices subtle changes in Madam Jiang. Her wardrobe—before entirely consisting of white robes—begins to feature light pastels, as well. He thinks she looks stunning in the soft pinks, blues, purples, and greens like she was born to wear those colors. White does not suit her as much. The days she wears white robes are always the days she seems the most melancholy. There are four days a year where the white robes are ever-present, and the sadness is evident: her husband’s birthday and the anniversary of death and her brother’s birthday and the anniversary of death. Those days, he mostly sits with her in silence. She attempts to share snippets of a story but cuts herself off with a sob.

“Grief never really goes away, you just get better at dealing with it,” she says on one such day, “It is a blessing and a curse. While painful, grief makes the memories more precious. Without those memories, there would be no grief, but I wouldn’t trade those memories for the world. Thank you for allowing me to share them with you.”

He thinks he should be the one thanking her. She has given him his own memories that he will treasure forever. He does not know yet how to express his gratitude, so he keeps her company in silence.

After roughly three years after he came to Koi Tower and met Madam Jiang, he meets someone new. A man is sitting under the gazebo with her as he walks into the courtyard. The man wears entirely white robes and has a ribbon around his forehead. He approaches the gazebo slowly.

“I’d like to introduce you to Hanguang-Jun,” she says. His eyes go wide. He has heard that name, he is one of the most famous cultivators in the world. He quickly stoops low in a bow.

“He was a dear friend of my brother’s,” she adds. The man looks down when she does.

“I have been telling him stories about A-Xian but I’m afraid I have about run out of stories to tell. I’m sure you’ve got many from your adventures together. We’d love to hear them,” she says. Hanguang-Jun looks up at her and then at him. He nods vigorously. Hanguang-Jun’s mouth turns up in a barely perceptible smile.

“Very well,” he says. The man is nowhere near the storyteller Madam Jiang is—never embellishing and always using the least number of words possible—but his stories are captivating, nonetheless. He speaks of broken rules, bravery, and boldness. He recounts battles with moving stone statues and ancient monsters. Madam Jiang listens just as intently as he is, evidently some of his stories are new to her, as well. When Hanguang-Jun is done, there are tears in her eyes.

“Thank you,” she says.

“No need.”

“It makes me very happy to know my A-Xian had such a good friend til the end.” Hanguang-Jun looks down as she finishes her sentence and does not reply for a while.

“I should depart,” he says and rises from the chair.

“Okay, do let me know if you find anything,” she says quietly, “and please do visit again, it was good to see you,” she finishes.

“Mn,” is his only reply.

After his back disappears from the courtyard, Madam Jiang sighs. “My brother loved him very much, and I think he loved him back. They just didn’t have enough time to realize it,” she says and wipes a tear from her face.

Hanguang-Jun does visit again. The next few times, he brings with him a young boy—only a few years older than Jin Ling—also dressed in white with a forehead ribbon. He plays in the courtyard with Jin Ling as Madam Jiang and Hanguang-Jun sit in the gazebo. Hanguang-Jun shares new stories about her brother each time. He treasures them away in his mind with all the stories he has compiled from Madam Jiang over the years. A mosaic of stories takes shape, molding into the form of this person he has never met. The painting feels almost complete, despite them leaving out the darker shades. His picture is still tinted golden.

Hanguang-Jun and the young boy are her most frequent visitors. However, more unfamiliar faces make their appearance once in a while. On one such occasion, a sect leader visits. He is dressed in deep green and gray robes and obscures his face behind a fan. He approaches them at the gazebo during one of their regular visits. In his hand is clasped a large book bound in red leather.  

She stands up and bows when the man reaches them. He gets up to follow suit.

“Sect Leader Nie, I am deeply sorry for your loss,” she says.

“Thank you,” he replies. He hands her the red book.

“What’s this?” she asks.

“A long overdue gift, I’m afraid,” he begins, “a compilation of your brother’s writings, recovered from the Burial Mounds. I thought it might bring you comfort.”

Her hands pause as she goes to reach for the book. She takes it gingerly, holding it as if it might break. She turns it over in her hands and smiles sadly.

“Thank you for this. I will treasure it greatly.”

“It is my pleasure,” he says, waving the fan in front of his face. He does not stay to share a story.

She stares at the book in her hands long after he leaves. Eventually, she looks up from the book.

“Would you like to look through this with me?” she offers. He cannot refuse. He nods. She opens it and begins to flip through it. He moves his chair closer. Most of it is unintelligible: half-written talismans and smudged characters. Some of it is legible but indecipherable for a different reason: cultivation theories so obscure and advanced that none but the most knowledgeable scholars could understand. He catches the names of some interesting arrays and spells, but she is leafing through too fast for him to study them. After skimming through it for a while, they reach the end of the book.

When she gently closes the book, she says, “I think we should call it a day.”

He nods slightly. It has not been long since they started today’s visit—barely over an hour he thinks—but her eyes already look tired. He stands and wishes her goodnight. He walks towards the outside of the courtyard, passing through an arched gateway when he hears a soft sob. He peaks around the wall. He sees her hunched over clutching the book to her chest, shaking with sobs. He feels tears prickling in his own eyes at the sight. He does not stay long before jogging off down the path. Her sorrow feels private like he intrudes on her just by witnessing it.

He returns to his room and lays down on his bed. He stares up at the ceiling. It is too early to sleep, but he does not intend to sleep anyway. His mind is too busy and his chest aches. He can feel Madam Jiang’s heartache. He has never met her brother but, after all these years, he feels as if he were a close friend. Over the years he has seen pieces of him in everyone he has met, pieces that reside in the hearts of those that had the luxury of knowing him. He treasures his friendship with Madam Jiang, but he knows he cannot replace all who she has lost. Even after all these years she still suffers. Hanguang-Jun suffers. He remembers the name of a particular array in the red-bound book. He can ease their suffering; he just needs more time to study his notes.

He does not wake the next morning because he never slept the night before. He stares off into the wall during lessons. His classmates' and teacher’s voices blend together. He taps his foot impatiently against the floor, counting the seconds until classes end. After a lifetime’s worth of waiting, the teacher dismisses them. He barely notices, only realizing after seeing his classmates all getting up to leave. He scampers out of the classroom quickly after them.

He turns down the path towards the courtyard and walks at a pace just shy of running. As usual, she is waiting for him at the gazebo. There are two small bowls and one larger bowl—telltale signs of soup. He approaches the table but does not sit down.

“Madam Jiang, may I borrow the book?” he asks.

“Oh, alright, I suppose,” she replies. She hands him the leather-bound book. He takes it from her before turning around and walking away from the gazebo. “You’re not staying today?” she asks from behind him.

“Thank you, and I’m sorry,” he calls out as he walks away. He cannot put this off, as much as it pains him. These years have all led up to this. If this works, it will be his greatest achievement. He has work to do.

~~~

Wei Wuxian is tired. He does not want to open his eyes. He squeezes them shut. Distantly, a voice calls his name. It sounds fuzzy in his ears. Papers flutter and a bell rings. Are the noises real or just in his head, he cannot tell. The voice calls his name again and it sounds clearer. Who is there, he wonders. His eyes feel heavy, but he begins to force them open. He sees a circle of red lines surrounding him where he sits on the floor. A man in pale golden robes kneels just outside of the array.

“I saved you, I did it with all my heart.” Memories flash in Wei Wuxian’s mind. He died. He was dead, and now he is alive again. How, and more importantly, why?

“I had no choice; I couldn’t bear to see them like that anymore,” the voice continues. Wei Wuxian looks up at the man’s face. He is smiling.

“Love them all for me. Please, Wei Wuxian, love them all for me,” he says. Then, he disappears as if he were never there to begin with.

[needs-to-stop-looking-at-yigas]

that sooga gangbang with the zora boys was SOOO GOOOD, what about a sandwich including sooga kohga AND sidon, any way youd like

I gotchu king, you know I love your requests. Let’s go!

“Kohga! Sooga!”

When Kohga was told Sidon came over for a surprise visit, he didn’t think they were serious. But there he was, smiling Sidon present, and waving wildly. Kohga motioned for the guards to step aside, letting him in. Sidon immediately went for a hug, though Kohga DID notice Sooga got a longer hug. Not that he blamed them. Ever since that heat rut a month or so ago, these two seemed closer than ever. Not that Kohga minded, he liked seeing them together. Kohga chuckled once their hug parted.

“What do we owe the pleasure, fish sticks?”

“I have brought a gift, and it could NOT wait till your next visit to the domain! Figured I’d come to visit!”

Sooga nodded, seeming pleased. Sooga enjoyed Sidon’s company, and it was evident, given how he didn’t silence his sunny companion.

“Well, we’re honored, truly. I hope the gerudo didn’t give you too many problems.”

“Well, they were...touchy, but otherwise kind women!”

Kohga snickered.

“They grabbed your ass, didn’t they?”

“One of them did, yes.”

“Knew it. Come on in, come on in, let’s get you something to drink.”

“So hospitable, Kohga! Thank you!”

You could give this guy a piece of flint and he’d thank you till the day he died. Sidon followed them both, lightly humming as he did just that. Sooga slowed down a bit to look at the sack on his back.

“I take it that’s the present?”

“Oh yes! It’s VERY fragile though, you’ll have to wait till we’ve settled down!”

Thankfully that wasn’t very long of a wait. Kohga brought him to the guest room, and after setting out some snacks and tea, Sidon took the sack off his back, and put it on the table, gently pushing it towards Kohga.

“Go on! Open it! I really hope you’ll like it!”

Kohga tore away at the cloth, revealing a small statue. Made from luminus stone, it was a rather well crafted statue of Master Kohga himself. Kohga held it in his hands, and his legs couldn’t stop moving in his excitement.

“No. Way. No WAY! I look GOOD in luminous stone!”

“You look good everyday, Master Kohga.”

“Flattery gets you everywhere, Sooga. Imma go put this in my room, you two wait here for a second!”

Kohga was practically jumping as he made his way back to his room. He placed it on his nightstand, giving it a good look over. They even sculpted his mask just right. He wanted to sit here and admire it all day, but he had company over. He made his way back to the hallway, and was about to enter the room again, when something possessed him to not enter the room, just yet. He pushed the door open, just a crack, and eavesdropped.

“So I hope we didn’t make things awkward between us, Sooga.”

“Not at all. Master Kohga ordered it so, ergo there’s nothing awkward to be had. I can tell it has been weighing heavily on your mind.”

“It’s not just WHAT I did, Sooga,”

Kohga peered through the crack of the door. Sidon slid his hand over, and held onto Sooga’s. They both looked at each other, with Sidon looking honest, absolute heartfelt.

“It’s what I’d like to do again. I very much enjoyed your touch. I enjoy being with you. With your permission, I’d like to do it again, however you see fit.”

Now Kohga could be mad. Could bark at him for trying to sneak into his man’s dm’s, or. Kohga could be smart about this. He pushed open the door, making them both jump.

“Think you’re missing SOMEONE’S permission in all of this, duel dick.”

Sooga jumped up in a panic, shaking his head wildly.

“Master Kohga please! I wasn’t going to-”

“Shh. I’m not talking to you.”

Sidon gulped, clearly being put into the spotlight.

“I didn’t mean to get in the middle of your relationship! I swear to you! I just-”

Kohga started laughing. There was something SO funny about these two idiots. Kohga took a step forward, shaking his head.

“Listen. I’m not mad at all. In fact, I’m not even saying no.”

That seemed to surprise them both, given their faces. Kohga held that big, shark face in his hands, lightly squishing his cheeks.

“What I’m saying is, you can fuck my Sooga as MUCH as you want. As much as HE wants. But, with MY conditions.”

Sooga butted in, clearly a bit flustered.

“Master Kohga, I told you my body was YOURS, no one claimed you had to share it!”

“One, I’m not saying I have to. I want to. Two, are you saying you DIDN’T enjoy getting fucked by Sidon?”

“I’m n-not saying that! I did enjoy it! I just-”

They both seemed a bit embarrassed by this, averting their gaze from one another like a couple of lovesick fools. It was cute, from a top’s perspective. Kohga let go of Sidon’s face, shrugging.

“See? You two like fucking each other. That’s all there is to it. So, why don’t we just be adults about this? Sidon, babe, you can fuck my Sooga, here and now. IF I get to be the meat in this here sandwich.”

Sidon didn’t seem to be following, and neither did Sooga. Bottoms. Kohga groaned, shaking his head.

“I MEAN the three of us fuck, you gorgeous idiots.”

The realization hit them both like a ton of bricks. Sooga was about to protest, when Sidon nodded eagerly.

“I have no objections on that end! I’m rather fond of you both! Assuming that is fine with Sooga here.”

They both looked at him, and Sooga stammered, trying to find a proper response. Kohga always needed to help this loser have fun. He motioned Sooga to lean down to his level, and pushed his mask to the side a bit, pecking his lips.

“If you don’t want to, you can say no. But I think you’d have fun. You have two studs here who want to make you feel good. Granted I’d still be the head honcho, but I mean, you know I take care of my boys, right?”

Sooga seemed hesitant, before Kohga pulled out the big guns.

“It’d make me very happy~”

That was ALWAYS enough to convince Sooga. He sighed, and nodded.

“I...suppose if it’s alright with you both.”

Sidon acted as if this shit was a bond of friendship, rather than an invitation to a threeway, scooping them both up in a hug.

“Oh joy! I’m completely honored! Where exactly are we taking this?”

“Sooga’s room. Which he can totally carry me there.”

Sooga knelt down to scoop Kohga up in his arms, right before Sidon lifted him Sooga up in his arms, grinning wildly.

“Please! Lead the way, and I shall follow!”

Kohga looked at Sooga, before putting his hands behind his head.

“We should keep this guy. Assuming you wouldn’t get too jealous of him~”

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

“God you two are REALLY into this”

It had been only a few minutes into this (hell they JUST got their clothes off), when Kohga decided it’d be cute to have them kiss each other. Apparently they took ‘kiss’ as ‘make the fuck out’. Kohga was nestled in between them, Sooga at his back and Sidon at his front. He sat there, watching as Sidon not only locked lips with his man, but practically forced his tongue down his throat. Hell, Kohga could see the bulge right in his man’s throat, and Sooga wasn’t at all complaining. He seemed to be enjoying himself, holding onto Sidon’s face as he groaned and moaned into it. Kohga almost felt left out, watching them enjoy one another like that. Then Kohga looked down. Sidon’s dicks were already at full swing, and Kohga knew just how he could reel the attention back to himself. He handled one in his hands, slowly stroking it in his palm. Kohga was apparently VERY good at this, as it was enough to make Sidon pull away, big, long, thick tongue hanging out, all soaked in drool like a dog (Kohga had a type it seemed). He lapped at his lips, looking down at Kohga’s hand.

“Your...hand is quite soft, Kohga.”

Sooga nodded, taking a minute to rest his chin on Kohga’s bare shoulder.

“Master Kohga is VERY soft.”

“But in a stud way.”

“The studliest, Master Kohga.”

They shared a kiss for a moment, before Kohga noticed Sidon was lightly thrusting into his hand. He REALLY wanted this, didn’t he? Kohga leaned down, and dragged his tongue across the length of that nice, big girth. It made Sidon shake, grabbing onto the sheets.

“You know, Sidon, I’m well aware you got the hots for Sooga here, but let me tell you, when I’m done with you, imma be the only one on your mind.”

And Kohga didn’t mean that as a flirt. He meant it as a promise. He leaned down, decorating that big (one of them anyway, Kohga was just ONE man), throbbing spike in kisses, before slowly taking him in his mouth. The spiky bumps at the end felt good going across his tongue, and even better when it slowly made his way down his throat. Sidon was damn near shaking as Kohga took him in fully, mask bumping against that rocking Zora bod of his. Sidon watched in fascination as Kohga kept at it, right before he slowly pulled away, drool still connecting his mouth to that one succulent cock. Sidon swallowed, somehow finding his voice after a moment of panting.

“I...not aware you were so talented, Kohga.”

“You’re a big guy, don’t get me wrong, but I’ve handled bigger. You’re up there on the sun scale though, two for one deal here. And excited too, don’t think I can’t see you twitching.”

Kohga sat there, stroking that slick cock in his hand for a moment. He tasted salty, like seawater, and in a way, Kohga was kinda into it. He made a ‘come here’ motion with his finger.

“Now, you gave Sooga a kiss. My turn.”

Sidon didn’t have a qualm in the slightest, holding onto Kohga’s chin, and pressing his lips against his. It started cute and sweet, until Sidon’s tongue worked his way into his mouth, and Kohga actually found himself almost gagging. It wasn’t the size, as that dick was bigger, but it was the way it moved. It squirmed and writhed inside of his mouth, as if he intended to reach inside of him, and eat his entire heart. Kohga loved it. Even loved how Sooga watched, leaning his hand over to play with his Master’s cock, nice and quickly, just how he liked it. Sidon was so into it, Kohga had to pat him on his chest to get him to pull away (and Kohga could hold his breath for QUITE a long time). Even watching him pull away was kinda hot, honestly. Kohga chuckled (like the dumb thot he was), wiping his chin with the back of his hand.

“You are a FUN boy. Now, let’s put that dick to good use, eh?”

They both seemed to know what he meant, and both made the motion to lift Kohga up. Their eyes met, and Sooga cleared his threat.

“I’m sorry- this is my job. You are the guest.”

“I AM the guest. Ergo, it should be in MY honor.”

Kohga almost wanted to let them fight. Ooh, two absolute dream boats fighting over who got to hold him. It was the life. He let them bicker for just a minute more, before he reached up and grabbed Sooga’s cheek, lightly patting it.

“Let our guest do it, Sooga. You’re a good boy, remember?”

Sooga grumbled a bit, before nodding. Sidon stuck his tongue out at him, before picking Kohga up, wrapping his arms under Kohga’s, holding him up. Kohga nearly shuddered as he felt that big, throbbing cock press up against his back. Sooga seemed to immediately be jealous, pressing himself against his front, and essentially making Kohga sandwiched between two sets of abs. Kohga could swoon, honestly. He watched them press their foreheads together, eyes practically shining in competition. He was half expecting a war here, so Kohga chuckled, lightly poking Sooga's mask.

"Easy, easy. You're a good boy. Act good in front of the company. You can even go first if you want."

"...you’re very kind, Master Kohga. The most kind, most handsome man ever."

"I try. Now, fuck me, right in my ass, my big, pretty boy."

With one more kiss, Sooga obeyed, holding onto Kohga's ass (and grabbing him a bit harder than usual), and pushing himself into his ass. Sidon took that as a que to follow suit, slowly pushing himself into Kohga's ass. Kohga actually shook a bit. Oh that was a STRETCHER of a cock. Kohga threw his head back, feeling both of those sweet, sweet cocks pulse inside of him. Sidon leaned his face into his neck, and bit down. It wasn’t a sweet love bite either, but a good, hard bite, right onto that sweet, sweet spot. Sooga made the move to push him away, but Kohga held his hand up.

"N-no. Let him. He's a guest. He can bite all he-ho shit."

Oh that one felt REAL good. He could feel the trickles of blood run down his arm, and it was just, SUPER hot. But Kohga couldn’t ignore his poor Sooga. He made himself breathe, before motioning Sooga to go ahead. Sooga did just that, starting to thrust himself into his ass, even taking the occasional moment to lean in and (rather possessively) smooch his man. Kohga chuckled, noticing how his glare kept turning to Sidon.

"Aw. Is someone worried a big fishy prince is going to take me away?"

Sooga muttered under his breath, only for Sidon to start to move in tandem to Sooga's thrusts. They seemed to grow more possessive of him, constantly taking turns kissing and shoving their tongues into his mouth. It was a wild combination of drool, moans, and possessive growlings. They both wanted Kohga's affections, and Kohga didn’t at ALL mind it. Didn’t mind their throbbing, hungry cocks, didn’t mind their ravenous bitings, their starving, eager nails scratching against his skin and tearing into him like he was a meal. All while Kohga just sat there, pumping his cock and moaning for them to keep going. You'd think Kohga was being lazy.

You'd be wrong. Kogha didn't need actions to be in charge. His voice was enough to command them, and both obeyed with no hesitation.

"Fuck me harder, both of you. Don't treat me delicately, fuck me like you WANT me. I wanna see who can plow my juicy ass better. I want to be fucking SORE, come ON!"

Kohga was a very high demand man. As such, he wasn’t easily pleased. He didn’t need JUST a huge cock. He needed hunger, lust, devotion, force, and absolute submission to please him. These two had to work hard for that, and Kohga, upon finally cumming, getting thick cum all over his hands and Sooga's chest, decided now was their reward.

"Cum inside of me. Now."

It was a simple command, and somehow, it worked. With panting, eager breaths, they came. Sooga came first, stuffing Kohga's ass full of cum, only for it to essentially be flushed out by Sidon's load. Cum was not only in his ass, on their cocks, but on their sheets in pretty much a puddle. The three of them sat there, not moving, aside from loud, heavy breaths. Then Sidon chuckled, sounding kinda wounded.

"That...was exemplary~"

"Eh I'd say 'that was fucking GOOD', but yours is good too. Hoo, you boys were READY for me apparently. Haven't felt this full in a long, long time."

Sidon's coarse tongue dragged against the freshly made wounds, and while it stung, Kohga found himself kinda into it, petting Sidon's head as he went along. Sooga sat there, and was trying (and failing) not to look jealous. Kohga chuckled, pinching Sidon's cheek.

"What's say we let Sooga have a turn this time eh?"

Sidon looked up from Kohga's shoulder, leaning up to bite at Sooga's bottom lip, chuckling.

"Only if you permit me. Master Kohga."

Those sounded DAMN good coming from a prince's lips. There WAS always room for more than one good boy.

[ipuckwithhockey]

Always In Your Corner- Part 4

a/n: Originally this chapter was going to be a little longer, but I’m not satisfied with the second half so I decided to go ahead and post. Sorry about the long wait! Please ignore my grammar mistakes. I hope y’all enjoy! Let me know what you think!

Summary: You were happily engaged to your perfect boyfriend when everything came tumbling down on you. The person you turned to just so happened to be your long time friend, Boone Jenner. The ever loyal Boone is there to help you get back on your feet. Little did you know, Boone had been pining after you for all these years, he’s just not sure if you’ll ever feel the same way about him.

Warnings: mentions of cheating, swearing, drinking

-------

Almost a year later…

The season wasn’t quite under way yet, but everyone was back in Columbus for camp and preseason. The summer without Boone was a long one, but it was good for you to be independent after relying on him for so long. You still talked everyday and he came back to Ohio a couple of times to visit. Since he got back you’ve been spending more and more time together. Boone would be lying if he said that one of his trips back to Columbus was just for a voluntary charity event. He would have used any excuse to be back in the city with you.

You had grown a lot since you walked out on Craig. Living on your own was a hard transition but you got the hang of it. You were starting to find the head strong and excited girl you used to know. You also felt like you had finally started becoming your own person, independent from a man. For the first time you did what you wanted, when you wanted, and you loved that part. There were always days that were harder than others, but you had come along way, and you were proud of yourself.

The first time you ran into Craig was definitely one of the hard days.

It was nearly six months after you had walked out, and shortly after Columbus had been knocked out of the playoffs. You were walking out of a coffee shop one morning when you saw Craig, hand in hand with Chelsea. They looked happy and if you hadn’t known them you would have thought they made a cute couple, but you did know them. You knew that she was the girl who your fiancé had slept with. You also knew, that the blame couldn’t just be put on her. Craig made the choice just as consciously as she had.

You thought that if you looked down and didn’t say anything they may not even notice you, but just as you passed them you heard Craig’s voice, “Y/N? Is that you?”

“Oh hey! I didn’t even see you guys!” You probably seemed too eager, but they were both being overtly nice too.

“Wow, I didn’t even recognize you at first.” Craig was probably referencing the hard work you had been putting in at the gym over the last few months, in an attempt to help yourself get back on track.

“Your hair is a lot longer, I don’t think I’ve ever seen it styled like that.” Chelsea was now referencing your grown out hair that you recently added some highlights to. You knew she was trying hard to make polite conversation. You hadn’t been dying to do go full on break up bangs, but you figured some fresh color couldn’t hurt.

“It looks really good,” Craig was looking at you, and you knew he was looking at you in a way a taken man shouldn’t be looking at a single girl. You knew that look, proving that you still knew parts of him like the back of your hand. But the thing was, he was never a huge fan of your hair when it was long. Once he even said that he thought you should keep you hair short like some celebrity he had seen on tv. You always thought it was kind of sweet that he cared about little things like how your hair was, but now you saw how controlling he was.

You wanted to be the bigger person, you wanted to just let it go, but you couldn’t, “That’s funny, you never liked my hair when it was long,” You let out a laugh as a weak attempt at keeping it light. You could tell Chelsea was uncomfortable and Craig was searching for the right thing to say. “Well, it was good seeing you guys, but I’ve really got to run!” You gave a fake smile and made your way back down the street to where you had parked your car.  

Finally, you got to the car and you slammed your door shut behind you. In the silence of your car, your strong facade was stripped away, and you felt tears pierce the corners of your eyes. Feelings of sadness, embarrassment, and anger filled you to the brim. For months you had been working on recovering from your downfall, and in this moment you couldn’t help but feel like it was all for nothing.

It’s like Boone knows when you need him, and you felt your phone vibrate in the pocket of your jacket. When you looked down and saw that it was him you automatically answered it, “Hey B, what’s up? Miss me already?” You tried to hide your uneven breathing caused by your sobs from a few seconds ago, but it did little to deter from the fact that you had been crying.

“What’s wrong? Did something happen? I’ll get on the next flight to Columb-“

“Boone, I’m fine. Really. I just ran into Craig and Chelsea, and I know it’s stupid, but it just sucked seeing them together and now I’m just crying in my car, and I’m pretty sure I freaked out some little kid when he walked by because I look scary when I ugly cry.” You stumbled your way through the rest of the story and Boone did his best to understand you through your crying and hiccups. When you first went to stay with Boone, you had been reluctant to share things with him, not wanting to overshare or burden him with too much. Now, you were more comfortable talking with him, even if he did have to pry a little at first. 

“I’m not sure if I got all of that, but fuck him. He’s a loser and so is that Chelsea bitch. I wouldn’t care what you did with your hair. Your hair is great, don’t get me wrong, but it isn’t the only reason you’re beautiful. You’re a good person, and you’re probably the smartest person I know. You’re funny, even though I hate to admit it.n Plus, you’ve got killer friends, like me. I meant it when I said I would come back. If you need me, I’m there. You know that.”

You of course hadn’t asked him to come back, but take note that his protective manner towards you has definitely grown over the last few months. After reassuring him that you were going to be fine, you decided that you weren’t going to wallow in this. It was in the past, and you knew then more than ever, that you had made the correct decision in leaving Craig.  

Tonight, Alexander’s girlfriend Felicia, was throwing a party for his birthday. As always you were invited, and Janelle had insisted that you come. This was their last big hurrah before the season started, and most the mom’s in the group had made sure to get babysitters for the special occasion.

The “small party” you were invited to didn’t seem that small when you arrived. The house party was full of people you didn’t recognize and it wasn’t until you made it to the kitchen that you found some familiar faces.

“HEYY! Y/N! YOU CAME!!” Pierre and some of the other guys cheered and pulled you into hugs as you entered the kitchen.

“I don’t think Janelle really gave me a choice.” You’re laughing but everyone standing around knows that it’s true. She can be very persuasive.

Pierre starts making you a drink when you feel an arm come around your side. You don’t even have to look beside you to know that it’s Boone. You take in his scent and the safety of his arms settle you in this crazy party setting.

“Hey, there you are.” He greets you.

“Hey,” The way Boone looks down at you makes your heart rate rise. Lately, you’ve been feeling differently around Boone, and it’s taking everything in you to suppress those feelings, especially with Boone’s arm hanging around your body. You wonder if he’s noticed that your hugs have been a little longer and that you keep to his side more often.  You try to tell yourself that it’s because you have become closer friends, and not because you might have feelings for him. 

“So, who’s going to claim me for their beer pong team?” You ask the room, and all the guys jump at the offer. You were known as a pretty big competitor on the Jacket’s beer pong circuit. Usually Josh would rope you into being his partner, but tonight Boone seemed eager to draft you for his team.

An hour later, you and Boone have basically defeated all of your worthy opponents, and you part ways to get a new drink. Josh and Seth wave down Boone to come join their conversation.

“So what’s going on man?” Seth asks.

“What do you mean? I just kicked your ass in beer pong!” Boone chirps back at Seth knowing that’s not what he’s talking about. The guys, and even some of the girls have asked him about the status of your relationship. The thing is, nothing has actually changed.

When Boone got back to Columbus a couple weeks ago you started to hang out almost everyday. Whenever either of you had time free, you were together. The ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ hugs seemed to linger longer, as did the accidental touches, and cuddling on the couch.

“Dude, what’s going on with you and Y/N? You guys both look at each other with heart eyes. It’s disgusting, but it would be better if you just made a fucking move. At least just fuck already! I think everybody in here can feel the awkward sexual tension!” Josh is chiming in now, and the alcohol he has consumed is making him a little more liberal with his words.

“Fuck off man. We’ve barely even seen each other in the past four months. I’m not sure if she’s ready to date at all, let alone wants to date me.” Boone chooses to ignore the “fucking” suggestion.

“Booner, I say this with the utmost respect, but you’re a fucking idiot.” Seth just pats him on the back and leaves the two other guys to talk.

While Boone goes to hang with the boys, some of the WAGs pull you into their conversations. Eventually Felicia pops the same question, “So, what’s going on with you and Boone?” Everyone is quick to turn to you with big eyes, waiting for a big reveal that isn’t going to come. “Nothing, we’re just friends.” You shrug and hope that they will leave it alone. You had been feeling differently about Boone lately, but you couldn’t let yourself think about it that way. He was your friend, and he helped you get back on your feet when the world’s biggest asshole cheated on you. You probably just thought you liked him because he was so nice to you. He would do anything for you because he’s your friend, not because he has feelings for you.

“Ok, you can keep living in denial, but all of us will be over here waiting for you guys to get your shit together and just confess your love to one another!” Janelle has been on you about this since they got back to Columbus, saying that you needed to get back out there, and that Boone was perfect for you. She insisted that he had feelings for you too, but you knew she was just determined to get you back into the dating scene.

Boone watches you from across the party and wonders what you are talking about. He thinks about how well you fit into his life here in Columbus. Natalie Atkinson must have said something funny, causing you to laugh. He loved watching you throw your head back when you laughed. For a long time after Craig he wasn’t sure when the next time he would see that would be.

He didn’t want to seem too clingy, especially with the guys already on his back about the two of you, so he tried to keep a safe distance for most of the night. He made sure to keep an eye on you for two reasons: one being he wanted to make sure you were safe and the second being the fact that he quite literally couldn’t help himself from watching you.

Throughout most of the night you talk with the other girls, but somehow Pierre and Tex pulled you into doing shots. It was nice to let your hair down a bit, but your alcohol tolerance wasn’t anywhere close to that of the hockey players you were trying to keep up with. It’s not until almost 2am that Boone finds his way back to your side. Somehow Boone had been pulled into a deep debate over whether or not a hotdog was a sandwich, and had missed you getting pulled into doing shots. When he glanced around the room to find you he didn’t see you, so he went to see if you were in the kitchen. That’s where he found you, multiple shots in, with Pierre and Tex.

“Hey, where have you been?” Your words are definitely slurring, and you can’t stop yourself from wrapping your arms around his neck. He looks so good tonight and your inhibitions have been clouded with alcohol.

“I’ve been here the whole time, but it looks like these guys have gotten you into some trouble.” Pierre and Tex are trying to play coy and leave the two of you in the kitchen before they get scolded anymore. You’re just trying to focus on Boone and not on the fact that his hands are balancing you on your hips.

“Well I missed you,” not able to control your tongue, some honest thoughts escape your mouth. 

“I missed you too, but we should probably get you home.” He laughs. 

Boone, ever the responsible adult, stopped drinking a while ago and was planning on driving home. The two of you say your goodbyes as you continue to hang onto his sturdy arm.

“Do you need help getting in the car?”

“No. I can do it!” The false sense of confidence that was induced from alcohol gave way when you tried to lift your leg to the car step. You about fell on your ass. Boone was of course there to catch you, and help you into the car. He makes sure you’re all buckled in before he hops in the driver’s seat, and pulls out of the drive.

“Hey Boone?” You move your head to face him and you admire the way his beard is perfectly trimmed to emphasize the outline of his strong jaw.  He’s just so goddamn handsome under the lights that line the streets of downtown Columbus.

“Yes?”

“Can we go back to your place? Cus, it’s just that, your bed is so much comfier than mine, like it’s just so warm and cozy. And it smells so good.”

He can’t help but laugh at how cute and small you sound, “Sure, but you know you have the same mattress at your house, right?” He glances over to see you staring up at him.

“Yeah, I know. But it’s not the same….”

“…Hey B, you’re pretty handsome, you know that? Like you’re kind of a total man rocket.” He can’t help but laugh, but your confession lingers in his mind. Maybe you did feel something for him… 

You can’t really stop yourself now, words are falling out of your mouth without warning. “You’re like way hotter than Craig ever was. AAND you’re so nice. Like what’s with guys being selfish assholes all the time? But you’re not like that. You’re one of the good ones. Some girl is gonna be really really lucky one day.”

Once your rant is over neither of you say much else until you pull into Boone’s apartment. You’ve dozed off, and Boone is careful not to wake you as he picks you up out of the passenger seat. When he makes it into the apartment he brings you to his room and sets you gently on the bed. He works to take your shoes off and moves around quietly, getting ready for bed.

“Hey B?”

Your whisper startles Boone at first, but he moves over to check on you, sitting on the edge of the bed, “Yeah? What’s up?”

“You’re not gonna leave are you?” The look in your glazed over eyes could have broken his heart. He wasn’t ever going to leave you.

“Not if you don’t want me too.” You give him a soft smile back as he moves to turn the light off. When he gets into bed, you roll over to snuggle into his side, and his natural reaction is to wrap his arms around you. The way your bodies fold into each other feels so right, and even though you’re halfway passed out, you can’t help but feel a sense of serenity wash over you.  

Just as you’re about to fall back to sleep you ask again, “Hey B?”

“mhmm?”

“I love you.”

[quietmyfearswith]

narcissist {carter baizen x fem!reader} 1/3

narcissist {carter baizen x fem!reader} 1/3

status — ongoing series

warnings — cursing, mentions of drug and alcohol intake/abuse, attempt at angst

word count (without the lyrics) — 1,995 words

a/n — so this is for @baezen’s the other guys writing challenge and my prompt was alcohol is the only constant in my life; the prompt will be italicized and bolded btw ! i was listening to narcissist by no rome and thought that the song fits perfectly with carter baizen and the prompt as well fit well into the story ,, listen to the song here if u want ,, feedback is appreciated and hope u guys have a lovely day !! :> y/f/n = your full name

masterlist | series masterlist

Took a picture of all my flaws

Or you can take a video on your phone

And you know that I would talk

But I'm too afraid to pick you up and go home

The ding of the elevator signaled me to step out of the elevator, and I did with a sigh — frustrated with the website that was opened up on my phone. Upon entering the penthouse, I headed for the master bedroom where the subject of the article is currently passed out on his bed.

Knocking three times, “Carter, you up?” My question was met with silence; despite this I still went ahead and entered his room. Clothes laying on the ground, a few beer bottles and shot glasses on the coffee table near his television, and his keys and wallets placed on his bedside table — the indications of how he had spent the night before; by hopping on from bar to bar and purchasing any kind of drink that had alcohol in it. At least this time he’s alone and not someone he had just slept with.

Approaching the side of the bed, I shook his back that was not facing me, hoping that this would wake him up from his deep slumber. He groggily groaned, turning to look at me with his sleepy and tired state, “Oh hey, Y/N. What time is it?”

I put my down and phone bag on the ottoman that was at the foot of his bed and looked into his walk-in closet for an outfit that would make him look decent and not look like he got dragged and passed around by people, “Well it’s way past time for you to correct your actions since people have already been talking about the stunt you pulled.”

This probably confused him as he sat up and tried to rub off the exhaustion he felt, “Can you be more clear with what you meant with that? Also, I really am curious about what time it is.” Going back from Carter’s closet — which happens to be made of glass and mirrors — and placing the down his outfit which consisted of a two piece Burberry suit that consists of a checkered maroon suit with a matching plain, maroon slacks and laying it down on the bed, “The time now is 9:28 in the morning,” I reached for my phone and shoved it to him with the website I have previously read still opened, “And this is what I meant when I implied that damage control was too late.” 

His shirtless upper body hit the back of the headboard as he began reading the content of my phone, “Spotted, Carter Baizen spending his earned wealth at various bars and clubs late last night. You may have previously known him for being the resident bad, playboy that you see in your school, but now just when it was starting to look like he was getting his act together, he reverts back to how he once was when he was a reckless teenager. I guess some old habits just die hard, don't they? You know you love me, xoxo, gossip girl.”

I laughed at the disgusted face Carter made after he finished reading what had got me annoyed earlier, “Well, at least I’m living my life well. Not compared to this jackass loser who keeps on documenting and reporting the lives of others since theirs is probably uneventful.”

I'm feeling Dazed like a magazine

Finding my own sanity

Wishing it'll all go away

Now we're smoking off the balcony

You're telling me profanities

Maybe it was never okay

“For fuck’s sake, Carter, do you not see the bigger issue here? It’s not just about how there is some loser out there talking about the life of others. But it’s about you how you are living your life! You are now a CEO, a fucking CEO! I don’t think business partners would be eager to make transactions and ventures with someone who acts as if they had just gotten their license and are now going out every chance they can to enjoy this privilege!” Carter looked at me coldly and was about to argue back but I continued to give him my two cents, “On top of that, I  think as well that the frequency of your alcohol, and possible drug intake is alarming, as well. And it's gotten to the extent that I feel like you should be seeing a professional to help you cope with this.”

I concluded my statement of concern and alarm by folding my arms together and looked at him seriously. Carter stood up and headed for the bathroom, I followed him and leaned by the door as he was washing up his face and waited for his reply. He stared at me through the mirror as he was drying his face, “I appreciate your concern, I really do. But I think you’re overreacting a little bit.”

I threw my hands up and scoffed at disbelief, “Seriously, Carter? Do you not recall the various times wherein I had to pick up your drunk or high ass — and by the way, there are some instances wherein you’re both high and drunk — from whatever bar you were misspending your money on.”

He turned around to look at me and crossed his arms — in annoyance, I presume — and fought back, “So what if I get blackout drunk a few times? It happens to the best of us! Have you not enjoyed yourself completely and just passed out from exhaustion from spending a night out? Oh wait, you probably haven’t! Which explains why you’re so fucking uptight!”

With one hand massaging my temples, I managed to remind him in a calm tone, “Did you forget what happened two months ago?”

345, that's where we stayed

She told me I'm a narcissist doing it again

Took a bunch of acid and she told me, "not again"

Now I've gotta tell her that I'm lovin' her friends

345, that's where we stayed

She told me I'm a narcissist doing it again

Took a bunch of acid and she told me, "not again"

Now I've gotta tell her that I'm lovin' her friends

My dreams of riding a unicorn while eating cake was suddenly interrupted when a loud ringing woke me up. Stretching my hand and patting for my phone on the bedside table. Recognizing how I had an incoming call, I swiped to accept it even though I was not awake or aware enough to check who was calling. “Hello?”

“Is this Ms. Y/F/N?” a woman asked as soon as I greeted her, I took a second to check my phone and only then did I notice how it was an unknown number that called me, “Yes, this is she, who’s asking?” My bones had suddenly become frigid in anticipating what the girl on the other end had to tell me. “Well your information was listed on one of our customer’s wallet and we had to call and let you know that Carter Baizen has passed out from drinking which resulted in him collapsing on the floor, head first.”

I let out a grunt as I put the call in speaker mode and got off the bed to throw over a pair of sweatpants and a hoodie, “Was he with anyone when he was drinking? And is he unconscious? And what address is your bar, by the way?” I was already outside my apartment and headed for my parked car by the time she had replied and given me the information I asked for.

Curse words and frustrated mumbles were leaving my lips as I was driving around the city, hoping to get to Carter faster and in time to prevent any unfortunate event from happening. Upon arriving at the bar, I was already opening my door before I had even parked my car and stormed inside the establishment.

“Hey, I was called in earlier for a patron who passed out and fell head first?” I approached a girl who was mopping floors near the entrance door, she nodded and told me that she was the one who called me and led me to where Carter was. They were kind enough to move him from the floor and lay him down on one of the booths.

I quickly took in his state — there were a few buttons of his long-sleeved polo that were unbuttoned, there were faint traces of alcohol in his shirt and face, while there was also a bit of blood residue from his head wound as a result of collapsing from the floor. “Thank you for calling me right away and for taking care of him, but I was wondering if you or another staff would be willing to help me bring him to my car?” the girl nodded and called for one of their male employees to help me bring Carter in.

That night was probably the most nervous and anxious I have ever felt; knowing that Carter could possibly be facing health problems from drinking too much and hitting his head. Seeing him this way has always affected me and has made me feel responsible for his well-being — not only because I was hired as his assistant, but because I was the only one who managed to tolerate and be with him for this long time. 

Fortunately enough, the doctor ruled that there was nothing currently wrong with his liver and kidney following his night of over intoxication. But that didn’t mean that he was completely out of the woods; I was warned of how if he spends more nights like this, it could probably lead to the failure of his organs to properly function. To add even more salt to that wound, he informed me about how Carter hitting his head was also dangerous and that it could have resulted in a serious head injury — but that wasn’t the case in this scenario. The medical official also told me that Carter was lucky for it did not lead to any complications and that he should be safe from it as long as he drinks responsibly and moderately to avoid these things from happening again.

And I've been seeing somebody

But I've not found a way to tell you

That I'm seeing somebody

There's not a nice way for me to say that

I've been seeing somebody

You know I want you to be happy

Since I'm seeing somebody

And then maybe we can get on with it

“You know, you don’t need to bring up what happened every time?” He said as he walked past me to grab his clothes and get dressed. I rolled my eyes and sat down on the ottoman as I stared at him, “I don’t need to? That’s where you’re wrong, Baizen. The only reason why I keep bringing it up is because — guess the fuck what — I’m the only person who gives a fuck about you! I’m the one you call every time your ass is too drunk to drive or when you’re high as the fucking clouds! Or if you can’t call, guess who’s name and number you have written down in your wallet? It’s mine! So yes, I bring it up every fucking time since I don’t want you to seize your night so fucking hard that you end up deceased the next day!” I angrily let out.

He was done dressing up by the time I had yelled out my grievances, “I’m sorry that I can’t stop myself from drinking or having a night out!” This unapologetic remark from him just angered me further, “Well then let me help you! Let a therapist or some other professional help you get through this! You don’t have to do it alone, Carter.” I reminded him as I stood up and put my hand on his shoulder, to show him how I was gonna guide him through this.

He pushed my hand away and walked towards his dresser and put on some cologne and began fixing his tie, “No, I don’t want your or anyone else’s help. Alcohol is the only constant in my life; it always has been and it always will be.” when these words have left his lips, I froze up in disbelief and hurt. I was there with him when he was struggling to establish himself as a businessman, saw his struggles and victories, and even outside of work I was the only who cared enough to make sure that he was fed and hydrated despite his busy schedule.

“What do you call me then?” I sadly asked him and this got him to stop his movements and turn to me. However before he could explain himself or go near me, I had already collected my things and headed to exit his room and suite, “Be at the office before 10:30 am, you have a meeting with representatives of the Eichner Enterprise at 10:30. The rest of your schedule will be emailed to you.” 

[shes-ddreaming]

the eyes that lost you ➸ lee donghyuck

i.

✧ destination ↬ best friends to lovers + fluff, angst,,, all that jazz yak

✧ a party of two for ↬ lee donghyuck x reader

✧ duration of flight ↬ 2.5k

✧ in stereo ↬ exo - what if

✧ in which your best friend donghyuck decides to pretend to be someone else’s boyfriend, leaving you to confront the only thing you’ve been avoiding your whole life—your feelings for him.

donghyuck had confessed to you a long time ago. and if you only knew that you’d be hurting like this now, you would’ve said yes to him in a heartbeat. but you didn’t; you had decided that your friendship was more important than anything, rejecting your best friend’s confession.

he took your rejection lightly, telling you that your friendship was just as important to him as it was to you. “look, y/n, i love you not because i had any intention of making you my girlfriend, but because... i love you for .. you. and if you’d much rather stay friends, then i’m all for it. i’ll be your best friend—whatever you want me to be, i’ll be.” he was sincere, and you appreciated that more than anything. you were more than grateful that donghyuck understood your reasoning behind the rejection.

and a day later, things went right back to normal, never a moment of awkwardness. he was still the same best friend you’ve had since you came out of the womb. it was as if his confession never happened.

and that’s all it took for you to make lee donghyuck your best friend for life. he was your constant, the one person in your life who has always stayed by your side. so many of your friends have come and gone, but donghyuck wasn’t one of them.

here you were, not even 3 years later, your eyes were on your best friend whose hair has grown a little longer from how it was when he confessed. he’s a lot taller now, standing a good 6 inches or so above you. it seems like a lot about him has changed, and his feelings for you were not an exception. but there was one thing that could never change, and that was you being his best friend.

the object of his lingering glances is no longer you, but it just had to be kang mina. you weren’t surprised—she was annoyingly pretty, smart, and funny. not only that, she happened to be the class president. donghyuck? vice president. everyone called them a match made in heaven. you hated how you felt when he was around her. you hated how your heart would fall every time you caught sight of him stealing glances at her. it wasn’t fair. it wasn’t fair to donghyuck. what right do you have to catch feelings for him when you let him suffer from his feelings for you for so long?

the guilt had eaten you up for a long time. you liked to believe that your suffering now was your way to repay the pain you caused donghyuck for liking you without any reciprocation all those years.

he always reminded you that he was alright with the way you two were, that you rejecting him didn’t hurt him as much as you thought it did, that he was glad you two were best friends. but it was hard to ignore his obvious feelings for you. you knew deep down that you were hurting him by staying friends, but he never complained. he quietly loved you until he developed feelings for someone else.

it was your turn to realize your feelings, only now it’s too late. you’re in love with your best friend but he’s in love with someone else.

however, it probably wouldn’t hurt as bad if he hadn’t been fake dating her. maybe then you wouldn’t see him in so much pain. you couldn’t bear to witness seeing him doing anything and everything for her when she doesn’t even feel the same way, just like he did for you.

“you’re a hypocrite,” mark says as you bore your heart and soul to him. these days, donghyuck sits with mina at lunch to continue to play the little charade they’ve been onto for weeks. mark lee has been your rock these past few months, always quietly listening to you and offering—what he would call—words of wisdom. you couldn’t count how many times you’ve gone to him to talk about your conflicting feelings about donghyuck. “be honest with me. is the fact that you’re no longer the object of lee donghyuck’s desire the driving force of what you think are your feelings for him?”

leave it to mark lee to be brutally honest with his stupid rhetorical questions. you sigh, putting your head down on the cafeteria table. you were a shitty person, a terrible, shitty person. you feel your lunch tray being moved away from your head. “do i have lettuce in my hair?” mark laughs at you, slapping your shoulder in the process.

“you did. but, i took it off of your hair, dumbass,” he softly pats your head like one would do to a crying toddler. “look, i’m sorry if that was a little mean. i hope i didn’t hurt your feelings or anything.”

“nah, it just got me thinking. do you think i’m projecting my desires of wanting a

boyfriend onto hyuck? or maybe i’m friend-jealous and i’m mistaking it for being in love with him?” you once again steal a glance at the boy who has been all over your thoughts lately and your heart disagreed. whatever these feelings were, they’re definitely not friend-jealousy or whatever mark had called it. you knew in your heart that you loved him.

“oh god i wanna die, i want to actually fucking die.”

mark has this amused look on his face as he helps you pack up once the bell rings for 4th period. “stop thinking about it for now, alright? we can get ice cream after school, it’s on me. i think i owe you.” he takes the textbook you were holding out of your hands and carries it for you, as he reaches his hand out for your backpack. you roll your eyes, taking it off and handing it to him. this was beginning to be a routine for you two whenever you’re sad. mark never lets you carry anything and always walked you to class.

“what did i do to deserve a mark lee?” you wonder out loud, followed by a kick to your shin from mark. you immediately took back what you said. “suddenly i don’t remember ever being friends with a kid named mark.” you hear his obnoxiously loud laugh and shake your head.

“shut up, loser!”

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: KDKDKD come heRE

[you questioned: “KDKDKD come heRE”]

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: STOP DOING THOSE REACTION THINGS AND REPLY FJDKDKDKD

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: PLEASE Y/N OH MY GOD

you: WHAT

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: pls come down to my floor rn i need sugar

you: what the fuck

[full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖 disliked “what the fuck”]

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: I PROMISE YOU’LL GET TO HAVE SOME OF THE COOKIES I BAKE

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: I RAN OUT OF SUGAR I NEED YOUR ASSISTANCE 😔🙏🏽

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: I HAVE A COUNCIL MEETING IN LIKE 2 HOURS AND I NEED TO HAVE THE COOKIES DONE BY THEN

you: oh shit i just checked i dont have any sugar

[full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖 disliked “oh shit i just checked i dont have any sugar”]

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: god why didn’t apple give the people™ the option to disheart something

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: you had one job

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: ONE JOB

you: KDKSKSKS IM SORRY LMFAO

you: ALSO I DONT EVEN THINK DISHEART IS THE RIGHT TERM FOR IT

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: come to the grocery store w me 🥺👉🏽👈🏽

you: fine 😔

“hey, neighbor!” you hear donghyuck yell from his door as you hold the button that keeps the elevator doors open.

you can already hear mark arguing “you two technically aren’t even neighbors! he lives like two floors below you!”

while donghyuck counters back saying, “yeah but if she lived on my floor then we would live right next door to each other!” you can recall this exact confrontation when the three of you were in 3rd grade.

you and donghyuck have lived in the same apartment building your whole lives—which is also a big reason as to how the pair of you reached best friend status.

“let’s go before the sun starts setting!” he was smiling as he ran towards you and you couldn’t even deny that your heart was doing backflips.

“hurry up before i let go of this button and leave you there,” you threaten him and he laughs, pretending to walk in slow motion. you let go of the button and the elevator doors begin to close in on each other, prompting a loud gasp from donghyuck as he runs as fast as he can to reach the doors before they close completely.

“y/n, what the fuck!” he cries once he reaches the doors and they open back up again. he had his hands on his knees in an attempt to catch his breath and you couldn’t contain your laughter. “i hate you, oh my god! i busted a lung out there trying to catch up to the elevator. i can’t believe you’d do that to me.” you were both laughing now and you watched as he pretended to sob.

the doors of the elevator opened back up once you reached the lobby and donghyuck takes this as an opportunity to run away from you to get to his car before you could beat him there.

he had his payback when he locked the doors before you could even open the door to his car, leaving you there for a good two minutes, yelling “karma, bitch!” before finally letting you in.

“you’re insane!” he just laughs at this, and you two call a truce to stop pulling pranks on each other for the duration of your grocery trip.

“alright, alright. i’ll go drop the sugar off to my house and i’ll meet you at the rooftop,” you nod, waving goodbye to him as he steps foot off the elevator with the grocery bag in his hand and you continue up to the penthouse floor.

you really didn’t know if this was legal. if you were being honest, you had a feeling you were putting your parents’ lease on the line every time you snuck onto the rooftop. you made your way out of the penthouse floor, opening the doors to the fire escape before you were finally met with the stairs that lead up to the rooftop.

you smiled as you looked up to the sky with its various shades of blue, purple, and pink. it was your senior year of high school and you knew you’d miss this once you left home.

you: HURRY UP THE SUN IS SETTING REAL QUICK

you: it’S NOT GONNA WAIT FOR YOUR SLOW ASS

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: FUCK FUCK FUCK WAIT IM PUTTING THE COOKIES IN THE OVEN FIRST

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: TELL THE SUN TO SLOW DOWN 😤😤 damn even the sun has no pATIENCE

you: damn riGHT so if you don’t hurry up you’re gonna miss it 😔

full sun (the best friend) 🌞💖: ALR ALR THEY’RE IN THE OVEN I’M USAIN BOLTING OUTTA HERE

and usain bolt, he did. donghyuck soon opened the doors out of the fire escape, finally getting a glimpse of the sky as the sun started to set. you seemed to have not noticed him, eyes focused upwards onto the sky.

he stopped in his tracks. donghyuck liked to think he no longer had any feelings for you. “not even any residue,” he would tell himself. but he couldn’t lie that there were some moments that he’d wish you had felt the same way as he once did. this exact moment would make it on that list. you looked cute. your small figure was a good ten feet away from him but despite the distance, he just knew there was no other place you’d rather be at the moment.

“finally!” you yell as he made your way towards you. “i was ready to lasso the sun and keep it here until you got your ass up here.”

he was staring at you, a small smile adorning his features. if the word fond could be personified, it would probably be this exact face he was making.

you finally let go of the breath you had been holding when his eyes leave your face and instead focus onto the sky. “god i’m gonna miss this.”

“the sky? i was thinking the exact-“

“no, us.” oh shit. oh shit. oh shit. you couldn’t even look at him. god, you were blushing like crazy and you prayed that he didn’t notice because you knew you were being crazy obvious right now. “i’m gonna miss us sneaking onto the rooftop to watch the sunset, you know? it’s just- i don’t know. senior year ending has made me become more... sad? i don’t think that’s the right word for it. nostalgic? maybe. every moment just has this sense of finality to it and that scares me.”

you were about to reply, but you were immediately cut off by the sound of his phone ringing. “hey, mina.”

and just as icarus flew too close to the sun, so did you heart. and now you felt it falling straight down to the sea. you didn’t bother to listen to the rest of his conversation on the phone. instead, you watched the sun while it painted the buildings a brilliant shade of golden yellow and casted a shadow onto the trees. but the view of the buildings could never compete with donghyuck as his tanned skin glowed in the golden sunlight and his eyes twinkled in a different shade of brown.

“crap, i almost forgot about my council meeting. i have to go pick up mina, too,” he had a small frown on his face and you giggled. lee donghyuck, how could you be so cute? “are you gonna be okay up here? i’m gonna go get the cookies ready. i’ll leave some at your door, as promised.”

you reject donghyuck’s offer of walking you to your door, telling him that you just wanted to stay here for a little while longer.

mork 🤢: damn senior year rly be hitting different 😩😔😫💦

you: MARK WTF JDDJDJ YOUR EMOJIS GTFO

mork 🤢: y/n i have a story omg facetime me #storytime

mork 🤢: i think my life is starting to become a coming of age movie LMAO

you smile as you read mark’s texts, telling him you’ll facetime him once you get back home. he was right though; senior year really did feel different, and it forced you to confront feelings you’d much rather keep buried, especially in the lee donghyuck department of your heart.

hello! if you made it this far, then thank you 🥺 tbh i was reALLY SCARED TO POST THIS IDK I HAVEN’T ACTUALLY WRITTEN ANYTHING IN AWHILE !! this WILL be continued so stay tuned !! 💖 kjdfakjl also aren’t we all just tryna be hyuck’s best friend 😔✊🏽

[oh-theatre]

Consistent

A/n: HI HEY I WROTE FOR THE INTRUALITY BFFS AU I HOPE YOU ENJOY! Uh basically just a few things from across the au, its probs confusing so ask me questions :DD and ill answer. But ye! Let me know if you want more okay BYE IM SORRY ITS BAD ENJOY

Words: 1860

Warnings: Swearing, kissing, therapy mention

Pairings: Logicality, Demus, possible prinxiety

Summary: Just some moments from across the Intruality bffs au!

“Elevate a little higher!” Remus sings, Patton chuckles but nudges him to quiet as weird looks glance their way. Apologizing with his eyes he continues working away, Remus whispers next to him, bobbing his head to the music. “Throw a party in the-” 

“Could you not?” A voice from across the room begs, a smirk hidden by a bite from Remus. Pattons blush quickly appears as he pops his head out from behind his friend. “Oh! Patton” Logan notices, both sharing a rosy tint to their cheeks.

“Just get married” Remus mumbles, pretending to focus on his math. Patton coughs, turning back to his computer, Logan scratches the back of his neck, patting away the sweat with his handkerchief. Roman bites back his own laugh but says nothing. “Play ‘Frozen two’, I wanna listen!” Remus pleads, a sweet affection as his eyes push forward.

“Its your phone and airpods?” Patton hands him the device, a giddy shuffle as Remus starts the playlist. Both instantly feel more triumphant as they continue their work. “Show yourself!” They sing together, fits of laughter as they dance. Logan once more goes to shush the pair but finds himself endeared with the boy. They had come to expect these antics, when all six had been put into the same study hall they knew chaos would ensue. Dee looked on, watching Remus butcher every last note as his own music blasted in his ears. 

“Hey, broadway!” Virgil lashes, Remus turns, an innocent perk to his ears. “Maybe shut up so Dee and I can focus?” He spits, Remus obliges but only after he sticks out his tongue. Winking slyly at Dee, the more quiet. “God, hes worse than his brother” Virgil mutters, erasing roughly at the problem he had failed to do. 

“Its fun V” Dee admits, his own foot matching the rhythm of his music. “Plus lets be honest, its Friday, no one is actually working” He continues his silly doodles across his homework, knowing he can finish it in two minutes. Virgil huffs but keeps quiet, the distraction too much. 

“Be right back” Patton whispers, taking his laptop towards where Logan and Roman sit discussing their psychology classwork. “Can i?” He wonders, Logan hiding his excitement nods. “I had a quick question about our recipe?” Patton sits, Logan listens. “I was wondering if you wanted to tak-” He pauses as the music in his ear shifts. 

‘I just had sex!’ Rings out loud, Patton's eyes grow wide quickly turning to Remus. His idle face as he conceals his giggles looking at his work. Logan tilts his head but Patton simply removes the device, recovering from his fright.

“Your question?” Logan repeats, Roman mimics his brother with his own dancing. 

“I was thinking we could maybe take it a step further?” Patton proposes, knowing how anxious Logan was about his culinary abilities. “A pastry tree, we start with bigger ones on the bottom and slowly work our way up! So we can experiment and give the judges different options” He finishes, the sweetest of smiles.  Logan wants to argue, find a problem but his plan worked and worked well for their grades. 

“We can try” He decides, a quick grin and Patton leaves once more. Silent punishment to Remus when he returns to his seat. The class continues and ends fast, they all part to lunch, gathering in their separate areas.  

~~~

“You good lego?” Roman asks as he unpacks their chairs from the locker, Logan snaps back from his distant stares into the bleak plaster. He nods taking his seat, his eyes setting upon a very hyper Remus and Patton as they prepare for their meal. “Hey Virge” Roman greets, Virgil and Dee join them, a quadrant of four chairs forms. As usual…

“What's up with nerd central?” Virgil asks, snapping in front Logans face. He shakes his head returning once more. Virgil follows his gaze however, biting back a knowing smile, Patton already sunk into his book as Remus lays his feet across the boys lap. “Ya know, I heard that they were dating” He puts out, Logan snaps his eyes, fear ridden.

“Hah! Please, Remus and Pat?” Roman laughs, sitting down with a shake. “Thats hilarious, Remus and Patton are best friends and anyway Remus has a huge crush on Dee” He adds, munching into his sandwich. Dee rolls his eyes, a soft kick to Romans knee. 

“I know, just wanted to see what glasses over here would say” Virgil teases

“I assure you, I could care less about Pattons romantic status” Logan adjusts his glasses, sitting neatly eating his food. Virgil and Dee share a glance but leave it be. “We should invite them to sit with us, they are our friends” He offers, no qualms could be made. They did consider the pair friends...so what was the problem? 

“Sup losers” Ethan kicks his chair into the circle, forcing his way between Roman and Dee. 

Ah right…

Ethan

~~~

“Easy Remus!” Patton urges watching his friend balance atop the table trying to hang the valentines decorations. The door opens, Logan accompanied by Roman, Dee and Virgil strut in. “Remus get down” Patton asks, Roman chuckles, a sweet squeeze to Patton as the group passes them. “Tell your brother hes being an unsafe” 

“Just say idiot” Roman corrects, Pattons expression changes as does Remus’s. He removes himself from the table, returning to his spot behind the desk in the library. Roman sighs, dragged away by Virgil. Patton sits next to his friend, softly kicking his friends chair.

“You're not an idiot” He assures, Remus nods, burying his head in his arms. “Ro’s your brother, its his job to make fun of you” Patton comments, Remus huffs wishing the insults wouldn't go so far. “Come on rum-rum” He hums, Remus giggles, frustrated with his resilience. “Come help me please and then we can go home, watch a movie, make snacks, build a fort” He says, laying his arms and head on Remus’s back. The idea sounds wonderful, but hes not sure hes up to it...just yet. “Oh and dont forget we have therapy today” Patton reminds, Remus groans. He knows its helpful and he gets to do it with his best friend but the idea terrifies him. “I know you dont want to...but its going to help” Patton encourages

“Fine, on one condition” Remus decides, annoyed with his friends walking eggshells around each other. Patton faces him, furrowing his brows in question. “You have to go up to Logan right now, kiss him and then ask him to be your valentine” Remus dares, Patton squeaks almost knocking over the books behind him. 

“What!” Patton exclaims “You cant be serious! Youre not actually leveraging therapy over my valentines right now” 

“Do it or you'll be flying solo” Remus leans forward, Pattons breath seizes as he swallows looking towards the said target. “Hmm” He sighs, wistfully looking away. Patton shuts his eyes tight but snaps.

“Fine” He barely whispers, Remus cheers pinning delighted in his chair. 

“Have fun!” Remus grins watching Patton walk away, so much hesitance to him. Patton wrings his hands as he approaches the group, Logan spots him a formal smile to the boy. He stands to meet Patton halfway, Patton takes a deep breath. 

“Pat-” No time, he takes Logans tie, only tugging softly as he pulls the boy into a kiss. The absolute silence that falls over the room save for Remus’s disbelief, is frozen. Pattons heart pounds until suddenly Logans melting right into the kiss. 

And its perfect, its absolutely everything Patton had dreamed of

He pulls away in a frantic panic, forgetting what he was doing. Logan clears his throat, dusting himself off. Neither dared to move or speak, they simply stared in delighted confusion.

“Will you be my valentines?” Patton remembers the deal, Remus pounds hard on the desk through his exasperated laughter. “Im so sorry” He rushes, ready to turn away in his shame, feeling a soft hand take his. “Im sorry im not thinking straight” Pattons fear drips out of him, feeling the world grow silent with the simple pound of his breath.

“Ever! He's not straight!” Remus calls out, shushed by Dee. 

“I would love to be your valentine” Logan replies, a soft tone just for them. Roman and Dee erupt into cheers, Virgil nods satisfied as Remus waste no time running into his friend. Embracing the petrified boy, Patton still believes he's dreaming as Remus hugs him. “And you don't have to make a deal, I would have done it regardless” Logan adds, Remus falls to the floor much to happy.

“You told him!” Patton cries, Remus can barely nod. 

“He just texted me” Logan shows, Patton's face surely matched that of a tomato. “I'm glad however, it was taking too long” Logans coy expression only set Patton's heart a flutter.

“Motherfucker!” Remus stands, taking Patton from behind, the teens feeling safe in one anothers hold. 

“Yes good point” Patton murmurs, Logan chuckles. One more quick peck to Pattons cheek before he returns to his friends. “I'm gonna faint”

“Do it coward, you wont” Remus dares, still nuzzling into Patton's shoulder. Patton locks eyes with Dee, tuning out the silly teases from Remus. 

“Dee would you like to be Remus’s valentine?” Patton inquires, Remus falls silent. “Sucks to suck” He jokes, patting Remus as he returns to his position. Dee stands, ignoring the eyes that now watch him. Remus stutters failing to connect a coherent sentence. A hushed conversation and the pair meet in the hallway. Returning moments later, now words spoken but their interlaced fingers said enough. 

Suffice to say, Patton and Remus had a very good first session.

~~~

“One cold brew for you” Remus presents as Patton approaches the locker, Logan accompanying him in the early morning. He takes it, the most grateful look upon his face, Logan yawns. “Goodest of the morns Logan” Remus smiles, Logan nods through his exhaustion

“Coffee starlight?” Patton offers, Logan moans in happiness taking the caffeinated drink. Remus laughs sitting comfortably in his chair, kicking Patton in a rhythm. The boy doesnt mind, hes used to the fidgets and it didnt hurt. 

“Pickles did you do the homework?” Remus questions scrolling through his computer, Patton sets up his chair, taking his coffee from Logan. He gestures towards his own locker, Patton nods a quick kiss goodbye.

“Gonna have to be specific” Patton says, allowing Remus to lay his feet across him. Remus shows his computer screen, Patton checks the work and nods. “You got it” He assures, Remus fist pumps, shutting it happily.  “Wheres Dee?” Patton wonders, going over his schedule for the day. 

“He had an early test so I dropped him off, but we’re having dinner later for valentines” He smiles, Patton smirks. “Happy one year by the way” Remus celebrates

“You too” They cheer their drinks, falling casually into their conversation. The pair joke and laugh through excitement for the day, cheer and the musical. Everything felt right...for now. I mean it was senior year who knows what might happen.

At Least this, was solid and consistent.

Them

Their friendship

[lilacsos]

Hogwarts!SOS Part One

A/N: So I’m really excited about this AU and I want to thank @thew0rldneedsmcreycghurt for helping me out so much! Love ya! Also, this part covers their sorting all the way until “current” them. Please feel free to request stuff! I’ll write the boys with any reader in any house with any little plot. Also, this takes place after Harry Potter is born but before he’s in school

Words: 4759 I got carried away

Pairing: None

*Warnings*: Bullying, two fights

Summary: The 5SOS boys are going to Hogwarts and this is only the beginning

Luke Hemmings  Calum Hood  Ashton Irwin  Michael Clifford

This is a long one so there’s a read more

Calum Hood was extremely excited about going to Hogwarts. His sister Mali Koa is going into her fourth year and he’s heard amazing things from her. The entire Hood family has been in Slytherin since they first began going to Hogwarts. However, the Hood family is unlike most Slytherin families. They believe everyone is equal no matter their blood status and they never worked for Voldemort. Mali spent most of her first three years at school convincing people that she was on the right side and would never side with Voldemort or hurt anyone. It worked and it was well known around school that you could trust a Hood and their friends.

“Come on Calum! We have to get a good spot.” Mali groaned, tugging her little brother onto the train by his arm. The two raced through the train, looking for a good compartment to sit in. Mali of course had her favorite spot she sat in every year but if Calum didn’t pick up the pace, then they’d lose it. Luckily, the siblings were fast enough to reach their spot. Calum and Mali waved to their parents as the train left the station and the two continued to wave until their family were just specks in the distance. “Alright, first order of business Calum.” Mali stated, getting the attention of the 11-year-old. “As a Hood, it’s your job to protect people. Now that You-Know-Who is gone, people feel safer but there are Slytherin assholes all over the school that bully the other kids. But we are one of the good guys. We stick up for them and make sure everyone knows they can trust us.”

“What if I’m not in Slytherin?”

Mali only rolled her eyes and smiled at her brother. “Trust me. You will. Now, Dad gave me some money for snacks. What would you like?” As the two discussed their snack options, two blonde boys rushed past their room with a younger blonde following close behind.

…

The older two Hemmings boys were an absolute menace to everyone around them. Ben Hemmings was also in his fourth year with Mali and Jack was starting his third year. The two Gryffindor boys had only been at Hogwarts for a few short years, but they already had quite the reputation. They were loud, obnoxious, and chaotic; they gave teachers and students alike headaches but almost everyone loved them. They had hearts of gold despite the disasters they made everywhere they went.

Luke, the youngest brother, was going into his first year and he couldn’t be more different than the older two. Luke was shy and quiet and often kept to himself. He didn’t like to cause trouble and he didn’t like people looking at him. He was living in the shadow of his brothers and he didn’t mind at all. No one saw him in the shadows and that was just how he liked it.

Jack and Ben fought their way into a compartment, shoving the other out of their way so they could try to take up as much space as possible. Seeing his brothers shove each other in the hall, Luke slipped into the empty room and took a seat next to the window, watching the scenery pass by.

…

Only one compartment over, a young boy with dark blonde hair sat with a boy with jet black hair. Ashton Irwin sat entranced as the boy told him everything about the magical world. Ashton was a muggle-born and he had so idea magic existed until a few short months ago. His world was flipped upside down, but his mother couldn’t be more excited for her son. Before Ashton left, she made him promise to have fun and teach her all about this new world when he got home for break. Ashton was sitting by himself before this other boy came in and asked if he could sit with him. Tommy was a pureblood so he felt like it was his job to teach Ashton everything he could about magic before they got to Hogwarts.

“So when we get there you’ll be sorted into the houses. I’m sure someone will talk about it but there’s secrets you need to know first.”

Ashton nodded and leaned forward, signaling Tommy to continue.

“The houses are Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. Gryffindor is the best house there is. Ravenclaw is for all the nerds and Hufflepuff only has losers.” Ashton frowned at his companion’s words but listened anyway. However, Ashton noticed he had forgotten one of the houses.

“What about Slytherin? That’s the fourth one, right?”

Tommy shook his head, almost in disappointment at Ashton’s questions. “You don’t want to be in Slytherin. That’s the house the evilest wizard was in. Everyone in that house is a bad egg. But you won’t have to worry about that. I can tell right now that you’d never be in Slytherin. You’re far too nice Ashton so don’t even worry. Besides, everyone knows that muggle-borns aren’t accepted into that house.”

With a glare, Ashton then made up his mind that he was going to get into Slytherin no matter what happens. He was going to prove this boy wrong.

…

At the cart outside the room, an energetic blonde boy stood with a few other students. Michael Clifford was no stranger to the magical snacks since his mother had often talked about them and brought him home some when she could. Michael’s mom was a witch but his dad was a muggle, making him half-blooded. His mom made sure that he grew up knowing as much about both worlds as he could, just to prepare him in case he wasn’t a wizard. Luckily for him, he was and Michael was very excited to be here. Michael bought as much food as he could and began putting them in his pockets.

“What are you going to do with that Michael?” A young girl asked, wrinkling her nose at the sight of him shoving food into his robe pockets.

“You never know when you’ll need a snack.” Michael shrugged and followed the group back to their room. “What house do you guys want to get in? I hope I’m in anything but Ravenclaw. Everyone says that’s where the losers all go.” The others laughed at his words, agreeing that no one wanted Ravenclaw. Michael settled back into his seat and smiled to himself, happy to finally be going to Hogwarts.

…

The first years all made their way off the train and followed a giant man onto the boats that took them to the castle. Some students were mesmerized by the castle but others, like Calum, had heard of the castle enough from their family to not be impressed. When the boats stopped, everyone climbed out and made their way into the castle, following a stern looking woman. “Now,” she began, stopping outside of two large doors, “you will be sorted into your house. The people in your house will be your friends and teammates. You will work together. There is Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin. Please, follow me.” The first years made their way into the Great Hall and gasps filled the air as they took in the sight of the floating candles and the ceiling that looked like the night sky. Excited whispers began but they were quickly shut down as the woman spoke once more. “I will call your name and you’ll come up and sit on the stool to be sorted. Michael Clifford.”

Michael looked around just in case there was another Michael Clifford that would step up but when no one moved, he cleared his throat and stepped up to the front. Once he was seated, the woman rested the hat on his head.

“Mr. Clifford is it? I remember your mother well. She was an outstanding Gryffindor. I see here that’s what you want as well. Hmm…” The hat trailed off and Michael looked out into the sea of people, wondering if anyone could hear the hat. “You would make a lovely Gryffindor, but I think there is somewhere else that you would excel in. A house that will challenge you to be yourself.” The hat was quiet for a moment before it shouted for the whole school to hear, “Ravenclaw!”

Michael was stunned and watched as the kids he had been talking to began to laugh while the Ravenclaw table cheered and welcomed him over with open arms. Michael could just imagine everyone calling him a loser and so it was then he decided that he would make sure no one called him a loser. “Luke Hemmings.” The woman called after the crowd died down. If you were looking close enough, you could see the grimace on her face as the young boy scurried up to the stool.

Luke could see his brothers out of the corner of his eye which only made him more afraid. Not only was the who school watching, his brothers were there too. “Luke Hemmings. Your brothers are quite the characters. They’re Gryffindors through and through but you, there’s something different about you. Something that I believe makes you differ from your family.” Luke’s eyes widened in fear as he started to piece together what the hat was getting at. Luke wasn’t going to be in Gryffindor and that terrified him. What would he do without his brothers to hide behind? What if he disappointed his parents? What was he going to do? “Hufflepuff!” As he walked to the Hufflepuff table, Luke could see the shock on his brothers’ faces as they slowly clapped.

“Calum Hood.”

Calum smiled and gave his sister a little thumbs up as he took a seat. “Another Hood? Your sister is in Slytherin, as is the rest of your family. You are a fiercely loyal young boy and you would do well anywhere, but I believe tradition will serve you very well Mr. Hood.” Calum’s body visibly relaxed as the hat called out, “Slytherin!” The moment the hat was off, Calum ran to the Slytherin tabled and slid into the seat his sister saved for him.

“Ashton Irwin.”

The young boy squared his shoulder and with a pat on his back from Tommy, he made his way to the hat. “Nice to meet you Mr. Irwin. My, you are very confusing, aren’t you? You could do well anywhere, and my first reaction would be to put you in Gryffindor, but you don’t want that. I don’t always listen to requests, but I can feel the ambition behind you. If you’re sure.” A smug smirk graced Ashton’s face as the hat yelled, “Slytherin!”

As Ashton passed Tommy on his way to the table he stopped and mumbled, “I don’t have to worry huh?”

…

A week into school Calum heard rumors about the Irwin boy in his house. People had been saying he was a muggle-born so there was no way he should be in Slytherin and he definitely shouldn’t be at the school. There was talk about perhaps the hat made a mistake but most of what Calum heard were plans to put Irwin in his place. Calum had no idea what people were planning but he knew that he needed to make sure Ashton was hurt or anything. It was the right thing to do and it’s exactly what his sister wanted him to do as well. After potions class one day, Calum ran after Ashton to catch up to him.

“Hey man, I’m Calum Hood. You’re Ashton Irwin, right?” Calum held out his hand for Ashton to take.

Ashton only stared at Calum for a few minutes before slowly shaking his hand. “Yeah, why?”

“Well I figured since we’re both first year Slytherins we should stick together. We could be friends.” Calum said happily, hoping Ashton would agree to be his friend so he could keep an eye out for him.

“Don’t you have enough friends?” That shocked Calum. He didn’t expect Ashton to react that way.

Calum cleared his throat and looked around them. “Those people aren’t my friends and, I heard from a few people that they want to put you in your place. A lot of Slytherins don’t like having a muggle-born in their house. I don’t mind at all and I think it would be good for you to have someone on your side.”

Ashton crossed his arms over his chest and looked behind Calum, seeing a very angry fifth year glaring at Ashton. “So it’s just business?”

Calum chuckled and shook his head. “No, yes but no. I do want to be your friend. What do you say?”

With a small smile and a nod, Ashton agreed and the two walked off to their next class together.

…

In their third year, Calum was walking through the halls when he saw a young girl against the wall with a Gryffindor boy in his year standing in front of her. She looked terrified and the boy was yelling at her. “Watch it Hufflepuff. Stay out of my way next time or there will be hell to pay.”

Calum balled his hands into fists as he watched the young girl begin to cry and promise to stay out of his way. He thought that maybe the boy would leave her alone but he didn’t budge. He only got closer to her while she tried to move as far away from him as possible. Calum marched over and tapped the boy on the shoulder and the moment he turned around, Calum punched him right on the nose. The girl ran off and out of the corner of his eye he could see a blonde boy hold the girl to comfort her. However, he didn’t have long to think about them as the Gryffindor tackled Calum to the ground. The two boys were just a mass of limbs as they each tried to get another hit on the other. The Gryffindor managed to land a hit on Calum’s face, splitting his lip, but that was the only damage Calum suffered.

A teacher ran over and pulled the boys away from each other, shouting, “What happened here? Who started this?”

Before either boy could answer, the blonde caring for the girl spoke up. “The Gryffindor started it. He was scaring Katie and Calum stepped in to help her when this colossal idiot hit Calum.” He looked at Katie who nodded, agreeing with the lie. “Calum had to fight back to defend himself.”

The teacher looked between the two boys and after telling them to get fixed up, she dragged the Gryffindor off to her office.

Calum dusted himself off and made his way over to Katie. “Hey, are you alright?”

Katie nodded and let a small smile slip. “Yeah, thanks to you and Michael.” She gave Calum a quick hug before she ran off to class.

The other boy, Michael, smiled and offered Calum a bread roll he pulled out of his coat. “Nice swing.”

Calum chuckled and took the food. “Thanks for lying for me back there. I didn’t think he’d land a hit on me or that a teacher would come over.”

Michael shrugged and leaned against the wall. “That Gryffindor had it coming. He’s always picking on the first years and I’m just glad someone gave him what he deserved. And that you were there to help Katie. You’re pretty cool for a Slytherin.”

With a small smile, Calum nodded. “Yeah. I think it’s stupid that people can’t get along or people think blood status means anything. Slytherins are known for thinking purebloods are superior when it’s not true. My sister and I try our hardest to make sure we’re there for the little guy.”

“I’m glad someone thinks so. Most of you guys are giant assholes so I’m glad there are at least two good guys.”

“You know,” Calum began as he thought about Ashton. “There is another. My buddy Ashton Irwin is in Slytherin too. He’s a muggle born and he’s all about showing people a good person can be in Slytherin. I think the three of us could be pretty good friends.”

Pretty good was an understatement. Calum, Ashton, and Michael became thicker than thieves. The three boys were almost attached at the hip and always had the other’s back. If Ashton got into trouble, Michael was quick to lie and get him out of it. If Michael ever ran into an issue, especially about being a Ravenclaw, Ashton was the first one to tell the other person off. And of course, if Calum ever got into another first fight, it only took a few seconds for the other two to jump in and help.

…

Luke kept to himself and didn’t make any friends until his fifth year. It wasn’t that he didn’t want friends, it’s just he didn’t know how to make friends. He was very shy and afraid to stand out too much so instead of embarrassing himself while talking to people, he just didn’t talk at all.

One day in fifth year, Luke was in his potions class not really paying attention when Snape called on him. “Hemmings, what is the first ingredient in the Draught of Peace?”

Luke looked up from his table and stared at Professor Snape with wide eyes. He knew Snape was talking to him, but he didn’t know why he would have been. Luke has never raised his hand in his five years at school and so far, no teachers have ever called on him. Not only was Luke shy, he wasn’t very smart either. So even if he wasn’t afraid to speak up, he’d still be clueless. With a deep breath, Luke softly answered, “I don’t know.”

For a moment, Luke wondered if Snape had even heard his response, but his question was soon answered when Snape’s glare deepened. “You don’t know? We have been discussing this potion for a month Hemmings. This will be on your OWLs and you expect to pass them without knowing the first step? 30 points from Hufflepuff because you’re so unbelievably stupid.” At this, another blonde in the front of the room stood. Snape turned his attention to the other boy and crossed his arms over his chest. “Something to add Clifford?”

Michael Clifford looked between Snape and Luke before clearing his throat. “Yeah. Fuck off and leave him alone.”

If Snape had been a cartoon, his face would be bright red and smoke would be coming out of his ears. “50 points from Ravenclaw and you’ll be having detention with me for the rest of the week. Sit down and shut up before I make it a month.”

Michael glanced back at Luke but did as he was told and took his place in his seat. For the rest of class, Snape terrorized Michael but at least he left Luke alone. After all, that was what Michael wanted to happen.

After class, Luke tried to run away as quickly as he could but before he could make it too far, Michael caught up to him. With a little corralling on Michael’s part, Luke gave in and stood still, watching the other boy. “Are you alright? Snape was really harsh.” Luke only nodded and looked around them, searching for an escape. Michael then held out his hand and smiled, hoping it would calm the other boy. “I’m Michael Clifford and I’m going to cut to the chase, I think we should be friends. Then you can be friends with my friends. I know you don’t have any friends.”

Luke frowned at Michael’s words, but he was right. He didn’t have any friends and it would be nice to finally have other people besides his brothers to talk to. “I’m Luke Hemmings.”

…

A few weeks later, Luke was very close to Michael, but he was still wary of Ashton and Calum. He had grown up hearing from his parents and brothers that there was no such thing as a good Slytherin. The three boys promised that Luke had nothing to worry about but it was hard for him to trust them. Luke had an easier time trusting Ashton since he was a muggle born and that made him more trustworthy but Calum was different. He was Slytherin through and through. But that all changed in one day.

Luke had a girlfriend for only a few days, but she had been the first girl to ever show interest in him and he really liked her. But it didn’t last as he found out through one of her friends that she had cheated on him. With a heavy sigh, Luke sat with the boys outside by the lake. All conversation stopped when Luke sat down; clearly the other three could tell something was wrong. Without much prompting, Luke told them what happened. “Emily cheated on me with some asshole.”

Before anyone could ask, Calum stood and began stomping around the courtyard. It seemed like he had no idea where he was going but all of a sudden, it was like his vision narrowed on whatever it was he was looking for. Now there was nothing anyone could do to stop him; once Calum was on a mission, he was going to complete it no matter what it took. The other boys ran after him and soon, they figured out where Calum was going. There by the Quidditch pitch was Luke’s now ex-girlfriend and a boy with his arm around her waist. Calum broke out into a sprint and in a few moments, he reached Emily and her new boyfriend. Without a word, Calum kneed the guy in the crotch. He dropped to the ground and curled into a ball, moaning in pain. His friends quickly reacted and jumped Calum, pushing him onto the ground and throwing their own punches. As soon as Luke reached the fight, he jumped in and with one good swing, he knocked out one of the guys. Michael and Ashton joined in once they got there, each getting hit but also landing some hits of their own. At the sound of the commotion, a few teachers, including Snape, ran over and pulled the boys apart. Once everyone was off of each other the questions began. Calum admitted to starting the fight and knowing he would get detention or worse, Luke added that it was his fault the fight begun in the first place. Michael and Ashton weren’t about to let their friends take the fall so they too joined in and told the teachers it had been their fault as well.

“Fine,” Snape snarled. “All four of you can hand clean the trophy room tonight. If you aren’t there by 10 o’clock sharp, I’ll be discussing your expulsion with Dumbledore in the morning.”

That night, the four boys stood in the trophy room as Snape handed out sponges. “You’ll be here until half of the room is clean. Tomorrow night, you’ll finish the rest. Mr. Filch will be outside to make sure you do as you’re told.” And with that, Snape left and it was just the four boys in the room.

Luke quickly got to work, knowing that the sooner they got to work, the sooner they could leave. Ashton seemed to have the same idea as he went to the other side of the room to begin cleaning. The boys were quiet for almost an hour before Calum spoke up. “I’m sorry I got you guys into trouble.”

A loud snort came from another row and Luke poked his head out from between trophies. “Calum, this is my fault. I shouldn’t have told you guys about Emily and then we wouldn’t be here. I just can’t believe you’d get into a fist fight for me.”

At this, all three boys stopped their cleaning and looked over at Luke. Confusion flashed over all their faces as they processed what Luke had said. “Hemmings,” Ashton started, shaking his head. “This isn’t your fault.” The other three walked to Luke’s side of the row while trying to figure out how he could think it was his fault.

Calum nodded and added, “Yeah Luke. You’re our friend and we stick up for our friends. That’s what happens. The guy deserved it anyway.”

Luke stood frozen in place as he looked at the three boys. “You all got into a fight, for me.” He was shocked. He never thought that someone would ever do anything like that for him. Sure he assumed his brothers would have his back, but they had to; they were family. But Ashton, Calum, and Michael didn’t need to do anything for Luke, but they did.

“Of course Luke. You’re our friend. And when I got tackled you were the first person in there taking swings at people. Which you have a great arm. You’d be great on the Quidditch team.” Calum shrugged with a little laugh. “The four of us are friends and friends are there for each other, no matter what.”

Luke looked around at the three boys he had slowly begun to know and smiled. These guys were willing to risk getting expelled for him. They were his friends. “No matter what.” Luke smiled and Michael elbowed him in the side while Calum tossed a sponge at him.

“Let’s get this shit over with. I want to go to bed.” Ashton huffed but smiled as he patted Luke on the back. The others agreed and went back to cleaning all smiling as they did so. It took five years, but the four boys found friends that would be by their side through thick and thin and would last for a lifetime.

That was two years ago now and Michael, Ashton, Calum, and Luke are all in their seventh year, almost done with school forever. As seventh years, the boys have changed quite a bit.

Calum has only made more friends since knowing the boys and most everyone in the school knows they can come to him if there is ever a problem. Even a few teachers have come up to him telling him about a first year that was too scared to walk to class alone. But his problems aren’t always solved with his fists anymore. Calum was a wordsmith but he always kept that to himself. Now, he’s comfortable enough talking to people about his feelings and the feelings of others. Most of the time that solves issues but he still throws a punch at least once a week.

Ashton still hates the fact that all Slytherins are seen as horrible people but he knows that if he can teach one young Slytherin to love everyone the same, they can go on to teach another. Ashton doubts he will ever change the entire wizarding world but he knows he can change the lives of the people around him and he loves it. He loves going to class knowing that just because he can be there for someone, their whole future can change and he’s making history in their lives.

Michael has accepted that he is a Ravenclaw. He still fails tests on purpose, but school has never been important to him. He knows he’s smart, but he continues to use it in an unexpected way. He’d rather make people laugh as he uses his brain to come up with a hilarious prank on Snape than use it to be the top student in his class. There’s more to life than being smart or pretending to fit in. He’s still weird and he still carries food in his pockets but he isn’t ashamed to admit that yes, he’s in the “loser” house.

And finally, Luke was far more confident than he was then and he’s happy to be in Hufflepuff. He likes not always being the center of attention but now he knows how to command attention if he wants it. And after being friends with the boys, he finally knows how to talk to people and make friends; he’s even dated people now. Luke has finally learned that people like him and enjoy talking to him and he likes talking to them as well. But if you ask him, the most important thing he’s learned is that he has three friends, brothers really, that will be there for him every step of the way.

None of them know what they want to do after school or what this new year will hold, but they all know that whatever happens, they aren’t leaving their new brothers behind.

Taglist (let me know if you want to be tagged)

@babylon-corgis @buzzcutcalum  @sexgodashton @gigglyirwin @lucidlrh @starshonerose

[carewyncromwell]

Ok: AU time. Jacob and Carey swap lives. Carey went missing when Jacob was a kid, and now Jacob has to find her. The friends swap too, so Jacob, Duncan, and Olivia have to track down Carey's old friends (Ben, Penny, Weasleys) and the Vaults to find her. Brownie points if Rowan is a Hogwarts ghost and Duncan dies at some point during the story. Also, Rakepick and Merula swap, so "Patty" is the rival, while Madam Snyde is the cursebreaker. I wanna see what you'll come up with!

Oooooh. Hmm...this would be a very interesting AU, for several reasons.

The Cromwell kids’ dynamic was largely based on the one between my mother and her older brother. Carewyn and Jacob were specifically written as character foils to each other, and the lives they’ve led shaped them into those opposite personalities.

Because he was treated like a freak and put down as a loser and a screw-up for so much of his life, including by his own father Evan, without any explanation about his abilities and with no guidance from his mother Lane on how to constructively express anger no matter how much she sincerely loved and supported him, Jacob grew up into a very reckless, aggressive young man who -- upon learning the reason behind his “oddities” -- became determined to prove himself and never be that “loser” again. He also became incredibly overprotective of and even kind helped raise Carewyn, because Evan (who, again, butted heads constantly with Jacob) emotionally dropped out of her life from the time she was born and abandoned his family once Jacob received his Hogwarts letter a few years later. And Jacob has never been as empathetic or sensitive of a person as his sister, so he’s never had as easy of a time of making friends as Carewyn did.

Because she never really knew Evan at all and was raised by a single mother who had to work long hours to support their family and an emotionally immature and reckless older brother who was off at school for long stretches of time, Carewyn had to grow up incredibly fast to look after herself, as well as to support Jacob and Lane. She would often bypass the chance to make friends or play with kids her own age in favor of going home to spend time with her mother, not just because Lane already loved Carewyn the way she was and so Carewyn didn’t have to put on airs, but also so that socially-anxious!Lane wouldn’t be lonely at home all by herself. Carewyn subconsciously learned from a very early age to be happy with very little and to soldier through in silence rather than complain, and when Jacob disappeared so suddenly, she pushed through that trauma the same way, even if it had so thoroughly dismantled her sense of identity and made it impossible to rely on anyone again. Despite being the younger sibling, Carewyn ends up being the one to fix her brother’s mistakes simply because she’s the more patient and methodical out of the two of them, preferring to plan ahead and think twice before acting.

If one were to flip these two’s ages around, with Carewyn becoming the responsible older sister and Jacob becoming the irresponsible younger brother, I think AU!Jacob would have a much rougher time trying to rescue his older sister from the Cursed Vaults than Carewyn even did trying to save her older brother. He’d have all the smarts, sure, but he certainly wouldn’t have the support network. In that scenario, I could see AU!Duncan and AU!Rakepick both potentially being obstacles for AU!Jacob at first, since they both have the ambition to be Cursebreakers, while AU!Jacob of course -- as much as cursebreaking interests him -- feels an obligation to save his sister first and foremost. After all of the sacrifices she’s made over the years to nurture and support him, and because of how he’s had to grow up and become the “man of the house” in her absence, AU!Jacob would know in his gut that AU!Carewyn had to be in severe trouble, and if he knew that, AU!Jacob would be ruthless in his quest to find and help her. (He’d flat-out refuse to entertain the thought that his big sis might be dead, particularly once he starts hearing her voice in his head. Carewyn dying would probably destroy Jacob, since, just like in all universes, she’s one of the few people he knows would never abandon him, no matter how many mistakes he makes.) AU!OIivia would probably be Jacob’s first ally in dealing with the Ice Vault, and then AU!Jacob would end up picking up Duncan in time for the Fear Vault (since Duncan, being more “common-sense”-oriented than either of the two Ravenclaws would be better at sussing out the Vault’s location), and Rakepick in time for the Forest Vault (since Pat being an arrogant and rule-breaking, but talented and fearless Gryffindor would be an ideal ally when flying into the Forbidden Forest after dark and facing off against an Acromantula).

By the time “Madame Snyde” arrives, AU!Jacob would’ve encountered Rowan as a ghost through new-Prefect!AU!OIivia, and through AU!Rowan, Jacob realizes just how many people truly loved his sister before she disappeared. According to Rowan, it was only in their sixth year, right before she died and AU!Carewyn disappeared, that Carewyn’s friend circle had determined that she was hiding something from them. Rowan herself had gone to try to find out why Carewyn was sneaking out to the Forest alone one night, only to get cornered and killed by someone in a red hood she didn’t know -- Jacob, of course, would immediately put together that that person had to be from R, the group that had recently taken to threatening him to stay away from the Vaults. AU!Olivia and Duncan would help Jacob follow up with the people Rowan said were Carewyn’s friends, including Ben Copper and Bill and Charlie Weasley. In Carewyn’s absence, they created a secret organization of their own to investigate what had happened to both Rowan and Carewyn called the Circle of Khanna. The last co-leader of the group was -- to Jacob’s shock -- “Madam” Merula Snyde. And yet she had dropped out from the group’s activities rather abruptly not long before Jacob started at Hogwarts and had not reached back out to Bill, Charlie, and Ben again. Admittedly “Madam Snyde” had never been as close to Carewyn as the others, seeing her as “Little Miss Perfect” and resenting her quite openly at times, but AU!Bill claimed that Merula did still care about AU!Carewyn, in her own weird way.

It’s only when AU!Jacob, Olivia, Duncan, and Pat get betrayed by “Madam Snyde” in the Portrait Vault that R’s role in this whole mess is truly revealed -- R aimed to force AU!Carewyn to join their ranks, and upon her refusal, they sought to put her out of the way, so that she couldn’t interfere with their plans. And so, at least according to “Madam Snyde,” R recruited Merula in AU!Carewyn’s stead and instructed her to lock Carewyn away in the Portrait Vault. (Personally I’d imagine that “Madam Snyde” wouldn’t be completely telling the truth here, since I don’t see any version of Merula being that one-note-vindictive -- in truth, AU!Merula would’ve been recruited very early on before understanding what R truly was, resented AU!Carewyn for constantly beating her out in everything and being the apple of R’s eye without even wanting to be, and then been filled with remorse when AU!Carewyn was trapped in the Portrait Vault. AU!Merula then dropped out from the Circle of Khanna largely due to that messed-up cocktail of emotions, deciding that the only way to get proper revenge on R was from within and the only way to set AU!Carewyn free was to make sure that her younger brother Jacob got to the Portrait Vault.)

After being set free, AU!Carewyn immediately goes into Mama-Bear-mode, promising her younger brother that she and the Circle of Khanna will set everything right. But even with this, and even with how much he’s always believed in and trusted his sister, AU!Jacob just can’t sit back and do nothing while his sister runs back out into danger. And so when the Statue Curse returns in full, AU!Duncan, Olivia, Jacob, and Pat immediately jump right back into dealing with it, like they did before with the others. This, of course, only antagonizes R further -- not only did AU!Jacob and his friends set Carewyn free, allowing her to assemble an army that now alongside the Ministry was threatening their enterprise, but they were continuing to stick their noses where they didn’t belong by dealing with the Vaults. And so R came to a decision -- clearly the younger Cromwell, like his sister before him with the execution of Rowan Khanna, needed to be educated about the danger that came with getting in their way. Little did R know that -- unlike AU!Carewyn -- AU!Jacob has no moral code that might prevent him from taking ruthless vengeance on those who have hurt the ones he loves. And after how much R has already stolen from him and his sister...it truly was very foolish of them to think that AU!Jacob would fall in line, after taking something else he holds dear away from him.

[lornashore]

Sticks And Stones

Summary: A Gary and Arthur reader insert. You defend them against Randall.

I stood outside the run down building, leaning against the bricks that were painted in a faded carnival scene. The pungent stench of nicotine and piles of trash that lined the streets wafted through the air. I scrunched up my nose in disgust, covering my face with my jacket as I waited for any sign of my friend. Resting my head against the structure behind me, I focused up at Gothams rare blue sky, a welcome change to the dark overcast we usually had. I sighed then, checking the time, cursing myself for being so early when I knew full well that Gary usually ran late. Thankfully I didn’t have to wait long as a familiar british accent caught my attention. 

“Hey Gary!” I waved at him, straightening my posture as he strolled up to me. 

“Are you ready to go? I’m absolutely starving!” My stomach grumbled audibly just thinking about the lunch plans we made. 

“I need to stop in first. I think I left my wallet here yesterday.” He admitted, pointing to the cobalt door behind him with his thumb. I helped him open it, struggling against the weight of the large entrance.

We made our way through the tight, very claustrophobic hallway that led to a cramped locker room that wreaked strongly of dirty socks and body odor. I immediately held back a choke, the potent smell turning my stomach a little. As soon as we walked in, a very tall and overweight figure sauntered over, eyes darting between the two of us.“Well well well, looks like the munchkin circus is back in town! And today it seems to actually have a visitor.” His voice boomed off the walls as he spoke, arms stretched wide.

“I didn’t know you had a girlfriend Gare Bear. Why don’t you introduce us to this lovely lady? I’m sure we’d all like to know her.” He said, winking at me. I rolled my eyes, already disliking his behavior.   “She’s not my girlfriend, she’s my sister-in-law.” Gary replied, irritation dripping in his vocals.

“That’s right! This dork married my sister, so now my best friend is practically my brother.” I taunted playfully, patting the skin on top of his head. He groaned, batting my hand away from him with his smaller ones.“Then that means you’re single.” The stout one confirmed, stepping closer to me until he had me backed into a corner.

 “How about you and me go out to dinner one night this week ‘eh? Waddya say sweetheart?” He asked me, propping his arm above his head on the dingy wall. I scoffed at him, pushing past his large body and quickly striding over to Gary. “ Did you find it yet? This guy gives me the creeps.” I said, feeling the large man’s intense stare boring through my figure.

“You can wait outside if you prefer. Randall tends to be a little much at times. I didn’t think he’d be here today with it being the weekend and all.” He paused his searching for a moment to glance up at me with an apologetic expression.“No, no I'll just wait with you.” I denied the suggestion, looking down at Gary from the steel doors I relaxed against.  

I took a moment to observe the room, while I waited, noticing most everyone in it. Some of the men were in full costume while others occupied the desks that lined the walls, applying their makeup for whatever gig they had. But one person specifically caught my eye, one who had his azure orbs trained on my figure from the mirror he was seated in front of. I smiled at how adorable he looked with his forehead covered in white greasepaint, the streaks still needing some buffing. His wrinkled hand stilled, appearing to be lost in his own thoughts. Once he noticed me watching him in return, his face flushed pink, gaze lowering immediately. He dropped the brush in his flustered state from being caught by the person he just had glued in his vision. I chuckled, wanting right then to stride over to him and kiss both of those rosy cheeks of his.  “Hey Art, you like her?” The one known as Randall teased, smacking his bony shoulder hard. I cringed slightly, watching the force of the impact nearly knock the skinny fellow out of his seat.

“No, I don’t.” He replied in a raspy whisper. His voice was a nice contrast to the boisterous one of his coworker.“Oh c’mon. You were just starin’ at her. And besides, no one blushes like that if they don’t fancy someone.” Randall pressed on, resting his fists on his hips as he hovered intimidatingly over the quiet man. The red tint on his wrinkled features deepened the more his buttons were pushed. 

“Hey guys, Arthur here has a crush on the midget's girlfriend! I thought I'd never see the day.” He stated sarcastically, turning his body to his fellow comedians. I snickered at the blatant disrespect he was showing me, Gary, and the poor guy who was just trying to get ready for his job. “You don’t have to tease him, you know. It’s perfectly normal to find someone attractive.” I chided from my place beside Gary who was still searching for his wallet.

“So how long have you two known each other? I didn’t know Gary had any pals to spend time with.” The room broke into obnoxious cackling from the other clowns. From my point of view, I could see that this was something that happened regularly by the lack of response from Gary. I shook my head, not appreciating the treatment I see them give to my brother-in-law. Ignoring the rude comments that continued to flow from Randalls tongue, I pushed past him to converse with the one who currently hid his face behind his calloused joints. “Arthur, right? Why haven’t I met someone as cute as you before?” I asked him. He peeked at me from between his slender fingers, no response being uttered from him.

Just then, I was roughly pulled away by Randall who seemed to not enjoy the attention Arthur was receiving from me. I yanked my arm away, immediately sending a glare towards the half dressed clown. He held a smug expression on his plump cheeks as he scrutinized me from head to toe.“You didn’t answer my question. I’m just wondering why you would want to waste your energy talking to losers like Gary, or Art here. I’m tellin’ ya, there’s other people here who are much more worth your time.” He winked motioning to both men. I raised an eyebrow at him, scoffing at his unbelievably inappropriate behavior just as an idea came to mind.

Without missing a beat, I ran my fingers through the soft, curly brunette locks that rested on top of Arthur's head, purposely ignoring the unwanted pest that stood  a few inches behind me. His body tensed visibly, carefully watching my every move. In one swift motion I twisted my body to seat myself on his boney thighs as I wrapped my arm around his neck. He leaned back in his chair, flushing an impossible shade darker than before. I ran the back of my pointer across his striking jawline, trailing it down to the soft flesh of his neck. 

“Now, if you’ll answer one question for me. How would you react if I kissed you right here, right now? I mean, it’s really tough to not do when you have a face that’s as cute as yours.” I cooed with a wink as he squirmed beneath me. “Plus, I’d much rather get to know someone like you then some other prick who thinks they’re funny. Guys like that are just a big waste of space, you know?” I flirted, scratching the top of his head. A light giggle left me when he raised his hands in confusion and shock, unable to form words. He looked back at Gary who was standing still in the center of the room, wallet in his grip. His shoulders shrugged, watching me as he motioned towards the door .

“You’re not much of a talker now are you Art? That’s ok, shy boys are always the most fun to be around.” I ran my hands up and down his neck, bending forward to gently blow on the skin there.“You’ll speak sooner or later.” I whispered in his ear, feeling his lanky body shudder beneath my chest that was pressed to his.

My orbs met the wide ones of Arthur for a moment before I pressed my lips to his. He tightly gripped the chair beneath him, his breath hitching in his throat. I pulled away quickly, not wanting him to choke himself.“Hey, are we going or not?” Gary interrupted with an embarrassed expression on his face. I sighed, cupping Arthur's head and pressing my forehead to his. 

“I hope I’ll get to see you again real soon. Until then, you’ll have that to remember me by.” I winked and stood from his lap. He stared straight ahead, temporarily losing the ability to function properly. I glared at Randall as I passed, hoping that my point would sink through his thick skull.  “What the hell was that all about? I was just trying to be nice.” That was all it took for me to turn back around surprising everyone in the room with the harsh daggers I sent his way. The fake ignorance of his own actions towards others angered me more than I already was at this piece of shit of a human being who called himself a man. 

“No, you weren’t. In fact you went out of your way to poke fun at my best friend and poor Arthur who hadn’t uttered a single word until you started provoking him.” I berated him, crossing my arms. The chatter between the walls hushed, every ear now listening to the conversation. “Oh, cmon. It’s all fun and games here. Can’t you take a joke?” He laughed, shrugging his shoulders to emphasize his words.

“Please, you weren’t joking. I see the way you’re treating these two who haven't done any harm to you.” I scolded, moving towards him. The air around us thickened with tension, making the stuffy room feel more humid on the skin.“You think you’re real funny, don't you? Like everyone in this place actually likes you? I see who you are. You’re nothing but a bully, preying on those who can’t defend themselves against you. And why? Because you’re unhappy with yourself? Or maybe it’s just easy to pick on them because you know damn well that no one will do anything about it because you’ve convinced everyone that you’re this great guy. Well I hope this stops today, though I doubt it will.” Randall stood still as a statue, mouth slightly agape as he watched me turn my back on him.

“Actually-” I paused, reaching into my small black handbag for the pen and paper I kept in there and quickly scribbled down my phone number. Tearing off the small sheet I folded it in half, passing it over to Arthur who’s eyes were wide as ever. He hesitated for a moment, but took the piece from me, opening it to look for himself. 

“If any of these guys bother you again, just give me a call. I’ll stop by.” I told him. He nodded.“Thank you for that.” He rasped, tucking the paper safely into his back pocket. Without another word I spun on my heels, storming out of the building before anything else could be spewed from Randalls mouth.

Once we were outside, I inhaled in deeply, grateful for the putrid smell of trash for once. The sun now hid behind a thick layer of clouds, blocking off the warmth it’s rays offered before. “Hey, that was really nice what you did in there for Arthur. I’m sure he really appreciated it.” Gary told me, brown irises meeting mine. 

“He thanked me before I left, but I don’t actually know if I helped him or just embarrassed him. You know how some people are, they just don’t like others speaking for them.” He shook his head at my words. “You didn’t embarrass him. The guys he works with really aren’t that nice to him. I try to be friendly whenever I can but that often leaves myself vulnerable to Randalls wrath too. I love my job, I just hate the people I’m forced to work with.” I chuckled, agreeing with that more than true statement. 

“I just...I can’t stand people like Randall. All they do is push everyone around and cause trouble and then try to pass it off as humor. Drives me nuts.” Gary placed his hand on my lower arm, gently squeezing it in reassurance. “Either way, you did good. I wish I had that kind of strength.” He confessed, scratching the back of his neck. 

“The same thing applies to you too. I’ll come back here if anyone tries fucking with you again. You just let me know.” I kept a serious tone as I spoke. He nodded in appreciation of my concern, knowing that I was honest.“I know. I’ve always been able to count on you. But, would you at least think about befriending Arthur? He truly could use someone like you in his life.” I nodded, silently agreeing. 

“I’ll think about it. I just hope I didn’t scare him off.” We both laughed at that. But I knew, just from that short interaction with him that he needed friends, good ones. I felt determined in that moment to provide that for him, knowing that everyone at some point in their life needs someone to be there for them. “But...you didn’t have to kiss him like that. He is my coworker you know. That was sort of awkward.” Gary commented, interrupting my train of thought. 

“Well, you would know all about awkward situations. You married my sister after all.” I countered with a raised eyebrow.“I guess we’re even then.” He replied nudging my thigh playfully before heading down the sidewalk. I fell in stride with him as we made our way to our destination as my stomach rumbled loudly, realizing then what an appetite telling some jerks off could work up.     

[wren-bishop]

Backyard - Devyn

@drunkcn

Devyn: devyn was already a few shots in before she even showed up to riley's place, having an aching feeling that she'd need to be somewhat buzzed. she made a b-line to the first person she spotted with a cup in their hand, snatching it from them and smiling. "this is just what i needed, how did you know?" she teased before taking a small sip.

Wren: Wren just let her take his cup, "I'm very good at what I do" said Wren pulling his flask out of his pocket and taking a sip so he wouldn't be without a drink. "How are you doing tonight? Have you seen Val anywhere?" he asked

Devyn: her eyes followed his hand as he pulled a flask from his pocket, smiling a bit wider once he started drinking from him. "you came prepared," she stated, clearly liking that fact. devyn shook her head, the corners of her lips turning under just a bit. "i've only been here five minutes, she's probably around here somewhere... probably making out with memphis somewhere."

Wren: "Nana says to always bring a flask" said Wren closing it back up. Wren did his best to stay calm on the outside, "Haha devyn, so funny" Wren replied, "She won't makeout with Memphis until way later in the party" he joked. Why did people keep trying to warn him about the two of them? Was there a good reason?

Devyn: "i like nana, she's a smart lady." she nodded her head, matter-of-factly. her expression fell, her eyebrows joining together in the middle. "who says i'm joking? didn't you hear about memphis cheating on kimmy with valerie? i mean, i know it's old news but the two of them clearly like each other." that was as much as she knew about the blonde's relationships, she was completely unaware that she was actually dating wren. "why do you wanna know where she is anyways, you got a thing for her?"

Wren: "I mean yeah I was around for that, but it was just about breaking them up it wasn't like a .. they like each other thing" said Wren with a shrug opening his flask back up and taking a sip. "We're dating" Wren added, realizing that Devyn just didn't know, made more sense why she was talking about Valerie and Memphis like that. He was still a little more nervous than when the night had started, and he didn't like that he hadn't seen her yet and that they hadn't come together at all.

Devyn: she inhaled deeply, eyes widening when she was informed of his relationship status to the girl in question. then her cheeks started to go red but she tried to hide her embarrassment by taking another sip from the cup she stole from him. "i didn't know that." she spoke into the glass before the liquid touched her lips. "that's a shame... i'm sure she's probably not with memphis. he's probably not even here, i don't think he even knows riley." devyn tried to backtrack, thinking it'd give wren a bit of peace of mind. "have you tried texting her?"

Wren: Wren smiled a little when the girl started to get red, "It's cool, Valerie's a very casual person" Wren replied. "Yeah, I just don't want to text her a bunch and seem like a loser" he added. He'd been working on keeping things restrained so he wouldn't come off as desperate towards Valerie, he was just so excited that someone actually liked him for once. He didn't know if he'd ever get that again, so he had to move smart about it.

Devyn: devyn rolled her eyes, reaching out to him to pat his arm reassuringly. "not texting your girlfriend would make you a loser, not texting her too much. my boyfriend never texts me, he's the biggest loser i know. if valerie thinks you're a loser for texting too much, then she's dumb and doesn't deserve you as her boyfriend."  it was something so silly to worry about but it also made dev sort of jealous, wanting that from her own boyfriend. "i'd send her a text to let her know where you are so she can find you, cos maybe she's around looking for you."

Wren: "I just don't want to like triple text her" explained Wren, "I text her a lot to begin with" he added. He kind of felt sorry for Devyn, he felt ignored by Valerie a lot too, "I'm sorry your boyfriends not blowing up your phone all the time, ask Val it gets annoying" Wren said with a shrug, "Yeah, maybe. I hope so." said Wren, when he was with Valerie everything was great, it was the in between times that were hard.

Devyn: her nose scrunched up as she shook her head, not wanting him to feel sorry for her for any reason. she didn't like when people took pity on her. "don't be sorry, he's not really the one i want blowing up my phone anyways." she didn't mean to say that, at least not the past part. and when she realized that the thought didn't actually stay in her head, she started laughing at herself , thinking it'd act as some sort of distraction. "anyways, i'm totally down to keep you occupied until she shows up if you want."

Wren: Wren completely acknowledged what she said, but he laughed it off with her just to give her the benefit of the doubt. "Yeah that sounds fun, we should refill my drink that is now your drink, and get me one too" said Wren with a kind smile as he led them towards the drink table on the porch. He took her cup and refilled it with punch and filled up a cup for himself. "Hows cheer going with Kelsey and the whole pregnant thing?" he asked

Devyn: devyn followed along, walking in line with him until they got to the refreshments. when he brought up kelsey, she couldn't help but smile and then laugh. "oh my god, this pregnancy is honestly the greatest thing. coach has basically benched her which probably means she won't be captain anymore chanel is basically next in line," at least in her opinion, "which i'm sort of on the fence about but she'd make a much better captain than kelsey does."

Wren: "I've heard a lot of different opinions" said Wren, "about the cheer captain thing" he clarified. "Don't you want to be captain?" he asked, considering everyone else he had talked to wanted to be captain.

Devyn: devyn didn't know people were actually talking about it, only because she didn't know if the coach was actually going to boot kelsey from the spot or not. she was just about to take a sip when she was asked if she wanted to be captain. instantly, she shook her head. "fuck that, no." she answered bluntly. "nobody on the team even really likes me, nobody would listen to me."

Wren: "I mean there's a big difference between being liked and being respected" Wren replied, "But I also get not wanting to be captain. I'll be happy whoever it is, like whichever of my friends gets it. I don't really have a huge problem with anyone on the team, but I know you guys have a lot of problems with each other ... from what I've been told" Wren continued, shutting himself up to take a long sip of his drink.

Devyn: she tilted her head to the side as she shrugged her shoulders. "well, yeah... she hates me for no reason. she tried to force me into a truce with her and threatened to tell people who my real dad is if i didn't agree." she sort of had loose lips when she drank, that was supposed to be a secret. devyn slowly looked at him, her expression mimicking shock at what she'd just told him. "can we pretend i didn't just say that?"

Wren: Wren was kind of shocked when Devyn let that one slide, "Yeah we can definitely pretend that you didn't just say that" said Wren taking a big gulp of his drink, "Don't worry I'm good with secrets" he replied. He put up his glass to hers, "Cheers?" he said trying to move their conversation past this.

Devyn: she stared at him for a moment, trying to decide whether or not she wanted to give him some sort of explanation but really, she didn't even know a whole lot of details. she knew just what happened and the name of her biological father. "thanks," devyn flashed him an awkward smile before taking a large gulp from her cup. "what are we cheering for?"

Wren: "For keeping secrets, and for not making me choose who I support for captain ... because I don't want to have to pick" said Wren, he liked Devyn a lot, she was really sweet. He'd heard a lot of stuff, but she was probably just confused between the two guys, and she was clearly hurting on a lot of fronts.

[heloflor]

One night, two broken hearts

AO3 link

When two are damaged by the same foe, maybe sharing the pain will lessen it. And maybe some prejudice will even die down.

Note : I wouldn't be surprised honestly to learn that this kind of story has already been made but the idea inspired me so yeah. Also, be aware that this is made based on the way the characters were in the old/original off-broadway production and that I only heard a few songs from the 2018/2019 production so if the characters behave differently than how they are in the newer version, that may be normal (or I might have written them in a very OOC way, which is also a possibility...). Anyways; enjoy !

Jake's party was starting to die down as Brooke was sitting on the porch, her head on her knees, hot tears streaming down her face. It happened again : the moment she thought she found the right one, a boy she liked and who liked her back for who she was and not her status at school, she was cheated on for a more popular girl. She hated that feeling of being seen as a first step for boys wishing to climb the social ladder, like a taste of what their life could be. And knowing that tonight, she was used to get to Chloe, her supposed best friend, only made it worse.

She was sitting there for what felt like hours when she suddenly heard the door open behind her.

“Can't you see that I'm crying ?”, she complained.

“Right next to the front door ?”, a male voice flatly asked.

The teenager girl turned and stared in surprise at the boy's look. He was an unfamiliar average-sized guy with tanned skin, dark hair, wearing glasses and a black shirt with 'CREEPS' written on it; definitely not one of Jake's friends.

“What is someone like you doing here ?”, she asked. “I mean, no offense but I doubt Jake would invite-”

“A loser ?”, it sounded like the words almost got caught in his throat.

“I was about to say a nerd but...”, she trailed off, taking a closer look at the boy's expression. He wore an empty look, his eyes red as if he just cried. “Are you...okay ?”

“I'm fine.”, he spat out, already walking away.

“Wait !”, the popular girl called, feeling pity over him. He stopped at her call, looking over his shoulder. Brooke took the occasion to pat the space next to her. After a brief hesitation, the boy walked back to sit next to her.

“What do you want ?”, despite his soft tone, she could clearly hear mistrust if not fear in his voice.

“It's just that you look so...sad. Maybe you want to talk about it ?”

The boy didn't answer first, looking at the sky. “It's not important.”, he finally responded. “Nothing a popular kid should care about.”

“Well maybe I'm more than just a 'popular gossip girl'.”, she didn't intend to sound harsh but the mention of her 'status' reminded her why she was outside in the first place. To her relief, the boy reacted with a chuckle.

“It's nothing really. I just...”, he sighed. “Let's just said that my best friend dump-...left me behind, in order to be 'better' or 'cooler'.”

Well that's one thing we have in common, Brooke started thinking again of the fiasco this party was.

“What about you ?”

“Huh ?”, his question brought her back to the real world.

“You were crying earlier, weren't you ? What happened ?”, used to have guys trying to get with her at her lowest, she couldn't help but look out for any trace of malice or lust in his eyes. Though, he looked genuinely curious if not even worried.

“Well...”, she looked down, not wanting to face him. Surely a guy like him would see her problem as some 'stupid teenage drama' thing...right ? “It's my boyfriend, Jeremy. Or my ex-boyfriend now I guess. It's just...we were supposed to spend the night together, as a couple, you know ? But instead he...”, she started sobbing. “he left me for another girl ! For my best friend, even !”, after a minute of trying to compose herself, Brooke turned towards the boy, only to be taken aback by his shocked expression. “What ?”

“Did...did you just said Jeremy ? As in Jeremy Heere ?”

“Yeah ?”, before she could add anything, he looked back at his feet.

“What are you doing Jer ?”, he muttered to himself.

“So like, you know him ?”, he turned his attention back to her and nodded.

“He's the best friend I was talking about. We've been friends for years and it's just...I don't get it !”

“Don't get what ?”, the popular girl asked, trying to get his point with what she knew of Jeremy and with the little the boy told her.

“It's just that...Jeremy has a crush on Christine for years now ! Hell, she's the reason why he wanted to be popular in the first place !”

“So he...he really never cared for me ?”, reality hit her like a truck. Until now, she thought that maybe he did love her and that alcohol just got the best of him during the night. But hearing such a thing from someone who's as low on the popular scale as Jeremy was before, who claims to have known her boyfriend for years...“...He-he was only using me ? To get the attention of some theatre kid ?”, her breath started to get out of her control as new tears fell from her eyes. She knew more than anyone else what it felt like to be dumped by a guy, but never had she been used by one that way.

“Hey, can I ask you to do something for me ?”, his soft tone made freeze in panic, her mind screaming her to get away from any boy in that state. “I need you to breathe.”

“W-w-what ?”, she was a popular girl with all defenses down, an easy prey, and yet he just wanted her to breathe ?

“You're only going to feel worse if you don't calm down. Come on, try to breathe at the same rhythm as me.”, he put a reassuring hand on her back as she followed her commands. After a few minutes, she started to calm down. “Here you go !”, he said with enthusiasm, putting his hand away as she got her composure back.

“...Thanks. I-I really didn't expect help like that.”

“It's no problem.”, he shrugged. “Besides,”, he let out a sad chuckle. “I have some experience in helping someone with anxiety.”

“No I mean...”, she laughed awkwardly. “I kind of...expected you to try doing something different. You know since you're a guy and all that...”, at that, the boy laughed, surprising her yet again.

“If you want something like that, then you have the wrong guy !”

“What ?”

“Yeah. It's nothing against you by the way.”, he chuckled again. “Let's just say that girls aren't really my thing.”

A memory of one of the nerds at school suddenly went throught Brooke's mind. “Wait. Are you that kid with the headphones and the pride patch ?”

“Is that how the popular kids call me ?”, he asked mockingly.

“Not really.”, she answered, his sudden happiness starting to rub on her. “Though Rich calls you 'antisocial headphones' sometimes.”

“Guess that a pretty fitting name.”, he shrugged.

For a few minutes, they sat in comfortable silence, with Brooke processing everything they said tonight. As her mind went back to the boy's introduction, a thought suddenly went to her mind.

“Say.”, she started, getting his attention.

“Yeah ?”

“You tried to say earlier that Jeremy 'dumped' you, right ?”

“...Yes ?”, he started to look less comfortable, which only made her wish to go on.

“Do you like, like him ? As in more than friends ?”

He started at her for a second before looking away and starting to rub his neck.

“I'm really that transparent, aren't I ?”, he sighed, though she could clearly see him smile.

“Hey, don't worry about it. I mean, I wouldn't be standing there if I didn't find him attractive too !”, she joked.

“I guess...”, his smile slowly faded out and he looked at her with a more serious expression. “I'm really sorry about what he did to you. You didn't deserve such a dick move.”

“I'll be fine...at some point.”, she sighed. “It's not the first time it happened.”

“Still. It's not like him to do something like that.”, it was his turn to sigh. “Guess his desire of popularity went to his head...The Jeremy I know would have never just...”

“Ditch the people he claims he loves ?”, she finished.

“Yeah...That...”

“...I guess some people are just full of surprises.”, she muttered.

“They sure can be.”, he chuckled, turning back to her. “I mean, never had I thought I would be talking about my emotions with one of the school elites !”

“I can say the same thing about you !”, she replied, making him grin.

“...You know, when I say you didn't deserve to be left out like that, I wasn't just talking about Jeremy. You're a really sweet girl, and I hope you'll soon find the one.”

“Wow...thanks.”, she smiled, truly feeling affected by those words. “...Say, we talked for who knows how long and yet I still don't know your name.”

“Heh. It's Michael. Michael Mell. And you ?”

“I'm Brooke Lohst.”

Their conversation was suddenly interrupted by the front door opening and Brooke almost jumped out at the new figure looking at her in surprise.

“Jeremy ?”

“Brooke ? Wha-what are you doing here ? You have to leave !”

“And why should I do that ?”, she stood and crossed her arms, anger quickly rising. “So you can sleep with other girls ? So you don't have to deal with me now ? Or maybe you want me out so you can pretend that we still date ?”

“No ! It's just...”, as per usual, he froze in his sentence and his eyes darted away for a second, before his attention went back to her. “I don't know, okay ! All I know is that we need to leave ! Now !”, before she could add anything else, her now ex-boyfriend ran away without looking back.

Brooke felt herself fuming. Just you wait until next time, you manipulator asshole. Once Jeremy was out of view, she tried to calm down, breathing like Michael told her earlier. Speaking of which, she turned back, only to see that the boy was leaving too, taking the opposite direction. Brooke couldn't help but feel sad for him, especially upon realizing that Jeremy, his so-called best friend, didn't even acknowledged him. She let out a long sigh. No matter what happens between these two, it wasn't her business anyways. She had her own problems already. I should head back home. She thought, looking at the stars. This night has been long enough like that. And tomorrow...I'll probably have to deal with my 'best friend forever'. She sighed again. I swear Chloe you better have an explanation and it'll better be good !

[reddogf13]

Summer nights ch 2

Pennywise x Beverly

summery:   Beverly has the bad luck of being caught by a clown during mating season. while the clown has the bad luck of being stuck with her. will the both of them survive each other these next few months? (warning that this is basically smut and %2 plot. 10 years after the movie.)

status: complete

rated: M - fowl language, gore, and  sex scene ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

previous chap: Summer nights ch 1

next chap: Summer nights ch 3

_____________________________________

~ch:2 Honeymoon~

The next two days following almost exactly as the first. Him waking to tease her though leaving rough marks anywhere he could. Dominantly teasing out of her words of begging to breed her. Fucking for hours until they were both exhausted. Shed fall asleep while he “rested” down next to her. Laying still with eyes closed, yet fully awake and aware of his surroundings. unmoving when she awoke early this morning to sit up into straddling him. Not minding as long as she stayed on him without attempt to sneak away.

She looked back to him seeming asleep with arms resting behind his head. Her mornings of waking like this becoming normal. Rising while literally entangled by his long member twisting around almost snake like. To call him big was an understatement having a whole 5 feet of length to work with. Right now the black organ looping around one of her legs to around her waist and winding up her chest to squirm around her shoulders. Holding the very tip of it in one hand to gently rub it with her thumb. Anyone else in her predicament may think of forcing it to painfully snap. Start thinking up some escape plan to flee the monster who kidnapped her, But not her.

she was happy to settle down by him even if he caused her a bit of pain. Looking down at the various marks he had left over her. A collar of open teeth marks circling her neck to claw marks lining her hips. Unable to see the deep ones on her back that she could feel stinging under open air. Maybe one day she could step off the bed to catch a glimpse of herself in the vanity mirror. Eyes wandering around the wagon room to land back on the clown. Fully looking over him for the first time since he stripped the costume. Smooth marble white skin aside from black markings that faded from the ends of his limbs. The skin having a fine softness like a marshmallow that was satisfying to touch.

Petting a small patch of his stomach to touch his soft skin. The highly toned muscle her palm glided against the longer her petting went. Feeling his long length move against her to wrap along her arm. Her legs tensing at her entrance being slid up against in the extending. Finding herself wrestling against the thing coiling around her to further stimulate itself. The teasing bringing up thick bright blue cum droplets to its tip. Being filled many times by him, but this was the first time she'd actually seen what his looked like. Despite the large amounts it never dripped out, but disappeared it seemed. Its color she found beautiful to look at as it pooled in front of her.

A tempting smell off of it hitting her in the form of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. stomach growling at the mouth-watering scent after, In her whole time down there, she hadn't ate or drank anything. Looking back to the resting clown who she was sure wouldn't be going out for her to fetch things. Gazing back at his twitching tip in a sickening desperate hunger. Disliking the thought of swallowing the substance for a makeshift meal. Stomach urging her to not think about it too much and just eat. It definitely smelled good, but how did it taste?

Bringing the tip to her mouth for a gentle suck. Finding the flavor a lovely sweetness and the liquid not as thick a slime to swallow. Reminding her of a mostly melted vanilla milkshake as she ate him up. The giving supply shortly running out needing her to give further massaging. Wondering why after a few minutes he wasn't giving more than a spoonful at a time. Trying to work him up a bit through light nibbling along it. Getting it to twitch out a larger amount each time. Soon that didn't produce enough having her light nibbling turning more desperate. rougher bites she nervously checked back to him each time. A normally sensitive organ receiving bites wasn't usually promoted.

Remaining in his resting state had her seeing it as okay to go further on her roughness. Biting with enough pressure she was surprised didn't produce a mark on the twitching member. Eyes shutting tight over each bite as the wriggling thing between her teeth brought up the imagery of biting into a snake made of rubber. Sucking on the tip afterwards for the small amount of sweetness filling her stomach.

Pennywise was aware the entire time, but didn't feel the need to bother. As he was quite enjoying the treatment of her roughness between swallowing him down. Peeking one eye open to secretly watch her work him up for a burst of cum to suck on. Up until he realized she was eating him, that, he couldn't allow. Sitting up to claw into her shoulders startling her into a rough swallow of the last amount she could gather. Shyly looking up to him with a blush at being caught over what she was doing. The world whizzing by for her to now be laying back on the bed. Untangled from him to be underneath his grinning face.

“what were you doing, my pet?” smiling down at her in knowing the answer already. Bringing a deeper blush to her face while keeping quiet. Her stomach answering for her in a starving growl. Having hardly gotten anything off the few minutes she worked him. “do you want more?” staring her down into an honest answer of nodding. Patting her face “open wide.” He spouted a laugh while adjusting their positions. Hovering his drooling jaws between her legs while his dripping member squirmed over hers. Opening her mouth allowed it to squirm right down her throat. Thankfully not shoving his entire length down to start suffocating her. The slime it oozed numbing her throat to prevent any reactive gagging. Right away she felt a heated thickness sliding down her throat to collect at her stomach. His palm pressing down on her filling stomach to gauge how much more she could handle.

“don't be afraid to bite now.” teasing her first in a long slow lick. Licking along the spots that had her react the most. Fidgeting the only way she could through biting as he pinned her down everywhere else. Purring into her when she took up rubbing the rest of him that wasn't shoved down her throat. Squeezing him for more the same one would for yogurt out of a tube. When her stomach grew full she worked to stop the biting that ended up more difficult to do then thought. His purred licks between her legs keeping the climaxes up to tense her body. Including her jaw fighting through the waves to not bite down.

Pennywise was completely willing to keep filling her up past the limit. Make her regret her actions for tasting him without permission, but he was going to be charitable. Pulling himself free from her throat as he raised his pressing hand off her full stomach. Hearing her cough out from the overly fast pull. Nipping down on her chest to grab her attention back to him.

“full now?” receiving another nod. “ask to eat next time.” kissing up her neck to her lips. Her arms wrapping around his neck for a deeper kiss.

He wasn't the happiest to find her doing something without begging first, however he gave her no other option. Not realizing at first how much had slipped his mind. That if he wasn't going to let her leave, that meant she couldn't leave to eat or drink. Relying entirely on him for care including the simple things like wound cleaning. If one of the marks he caused became infected, there was no chance for her to see a doctor. His past females getting at least a week or two to recover above ground in their normal homes.

Unaware of where Beverly even lived before he snatched her up. He hadn't paid attention to Derry in 10 years since his fight with the losers. His supernatural gaze over the town spotting many changes. One being all the other losers were gone. Lots of buildings gone out of business or replaced a while ago. Beverly herself having gone through some sort of change he didn't understand. His attempts at being intimidating to scare her had absolutely no effect. Unlike all the females before her she had no sense of fear. Having this excited sparkle in her eye when he told her what he was going to do to her. Challenging him back at times where most collapsed under pressure.

Females feared his presence being near that they preferred curling up in corners to sleep. Many made attempts to leave him, but not Beverly. She fell asleep right up next to him without taking a step off the bed yet. Part of him wanting to know the reason why except not enough to finally ask. Another change that he wasn't sure happened because of him or something else was her being quiet. Keeping her sentences short to only a few words and that was after he teased them out of her. Causing her pain never got her to hiss out an ow or pleas to stop clawing into her.

Those very deep claw marks that would surely scar if it not were for him stepping in. Taking the task of treating the wounds through gentle healing licks. Shifting her around to reach the rest of the marks he made. Leaving the circling bites around her neck only partially healed to leave behind permanent scars. Liking the look of her obviously marked in belonging fully to him. Giving her a few pets to her back turning into light clawing. Stopping himself before getting carried away again after patching her up so soon.

Facing his wagon that needed an upgrade to be more livable if he was going to keep her. The fact was she couldn't survive without food or water for months on end. Deciding to add on a small extension through a new door. Picking her up to carry her into the small new bathroom. Barely big enough for all the fixtures and a 2 by 2 ft square of standing space. Everything inside having the same olden wood theme as the rest of the wagon. A hot bath already made in a long barrel tub that, like the bed, was too small for him. Getting in anyway with Beverly set down in his lap for the bath. Watching her mess around by shaping the collected soap bubbles. Resting her back up against him when all the bubble piles were collected into a hoard close to them. Hands coming up to pet him that had him shift away.

“who said you may pet me?” glaring down at her smiling face.

“can I?” asking softly still holding her smile.

Huffing at her thinking she can ask permission after overstepping her boundaries. “you may.” allowing her to escape punishment this time merely because he wanted her to continue. Purring under the soft petting treatment she returned to. If she dared to laugh over that detail shed be punished.

After that day, she became bolder in stepping away from the bed. After a round or two she would treat her wounds in the bath. Getting clean of everything he happily coated her in. Pennywise allowing it without pushing her to ask. As long as she returned to bed soon and when she took too long a bath he would slip in by her. Noticing sometimes she wouldn't head for the small bathroom, but instead examine his trinket hoard. Walking around wrapped in the quilted blanket up until he fetched her bag from the campsite. Having all her clothes back to actually be able to freshly dress herself each morning. Being dressed never lasted long after breakfast when their playtime rounds began. Delivering meals was something else he picked up on doing regularly for her.

Developing a more flexible schedule for them both that he questioned on why he would allow. She was having far more freedom than he intended. Walking around out of bed without asking first. Having energy at all to walk instead of trying not to die after so many rounds in a row. Light on inflicting pain while being the one to treat any marks he did make. Allowing her to annoy him as she picked things up, yet he didn't complain as she was sure to place things right back. Except for one leather bound journal filled with empty yellowed pages. He barely remembered where it came from aside from a guess it came with the wagon.

The journal wasn't like present day journals. The leather cover made of real rabbit skin once killed on the field. A pencil tied to it that was simply a piece of charcoal wedged between two wood sticks. Needing the more classic way of using a knife to sharpen it. He would catch her drawing dresses all over the pages while they relaxed on the bed. Realizing after a while she started organizing her own shelf space by the bed. Setting her borrowed drawing journal on the small shelf coupled by a few trinkets she also borrowed from around the room.

This was getting far too uncomfortable for him. She was suppose to be tortured and he was practically allowing her to make herself at home.

“I'll have to designate some new rules. Take away some things and take back what she had borrowed.” he glared in thought toward her bare back. Beverly mostly wrapped in the blanket aside from her upper back while lying stomach down to draw in the journal. Needing to momentarily stop to sharpen her pencil with a rusted pocket knife she borrowed from another shelf. Taking a bit of force to carve through anything on the dull blade.

He thought bitterly about everything. “humph, ridiculous to think of being stuck with this female. Maybe my body is losing its standards after so long of going without a permanent mate. When the breeding cycle ends I'll put everything back to where it was, like she was never here. When the day comes that I can finally end her miserable life I'll be-” thoughts broken by a sound stabbing at his heart.

A swift sound of a blade. she cursed out in pain “FUCK” hissing following after. The heavy scent of blood filling the air. Then something hitting the wood wagon floors.

Swiftly moving over her for a cautious investigation of what happened. Palm of her hand sliced deeply open to pour blood over everything near. The bloody rusted knife dropped onto the floor. And her drawing journal now having a yellow page stained red. Her uninjured hand heavily holding over the wound to keep more blood from spilling. Only able to do so much as the red liquid seeped between her fingers. Pennywise taking up the injured hand to start licking over the slash. Cleaning the blood away while the wound closed shut in a matter of seconds. After so much blood loss there was a worrying change in Beverly condition. Cold shivering that needed Pennywise to carefully warm her. Skin paler than its usual color to the point he was thinking of rushing her to the hospital. Somehow managing to get her to drink some water he had gotten her earlier.

Cleaning the blood off everything, including the stained journal, to settle her to bed earlier than usual. Warming her by his side wrapped warmly in the blanket. Petting her back to sooth her under any remaining pain that lingered. Nuzzling her neck when she hugged him close to pet him back.

Teasing him with her soft voice. “who said you can pet me?”

chuckling he replied. “i did of course.” kissing her cheek. Hearing her chuckle back.

The next day she was better enough to get up and bathe. Despite Pennywise's anxiety thinking otherwise on her up and about so soon. Taking the time to fetch her a breakfast of hot soup made mostly of a strong broth and soft rice for easy eating. Setting the soup off to the side of the bed as he waited for her to come out. Taking up the journal she was drawing in yesterday to look over the page she last worked on. Finding a drawing of him when he was lounging on the bed.

Appearing quite regal in how he was presented in the smooth sketch. Capturing every little detail of his toned back that faced the lookers direction. Lower half wrapped in a blanket to cover the rest of him. His face only half showing as he looked off blankly toward something far off. Darkly colored in were his face markings with softer shades used to define his bright eyes and hair. She managed to capture even the smallest details of his long claws on the darkened arm he rested his chin on.

Huffing down at the drawing he hadn't noticed her make. “probably a time I was planning her death.” he thought as the case of why he didn't notice. Still planning to do so when the time came to separate along with reorganizing things back. “but.” he thought in taking up a sharp clawed finger to slice through the papers attached hem. Taking up the drawn page of him to hide within his hoard of cluttered shelves. “may as well keep tributes to my grace.” hiding it deep to where Beverly wouldn't look. Setting the journal back into place on the shelf.

Agitation settling within at how long she had been bathing. Rising up to slip into the bathroom, where he was surprised to see her asleep in the tub. Head resting on crossed arms on the tubs wooden edge. The situation confirming his suspicion of her not fully healed from blood loss. He'd have to force a bit of care on his delicate pet. Spreading silver threading from his fingertips to make a loosely made web. He slipped the threading down under the water where he bundled her up. Spreading upwards without waking her until she was completely wrapped. Yanking her from the tub causing her to wake in a startled struggle. Freezing at realizing her restricted movement was caused by him. Shying back under the clowns grinning smile oozing drool.

A hungry look in his eye while watching her squirm in his threaded grasp. “asleep already so early in the morning? Before having breakfast?” dripping drool from his jaws. His attempt of intimidation again bringing the sparkle of excitement to her eye. Earning a laugh from him as he brought her to the bed where he tied her down to it. “you want breakfast my special pet?” he asked with a light raking of claws through her red curled hair. She nodded under his gliding claws passing down the side of her face.

“good, I got you soup.” he happily stated in taking up the warm take out container. Chuckling at her excitement turned to confused disappointment at his teasing turning to a normal breakfast. Glaring at him from her bundled imprisonment as he tried spoon feeding her. “aww, what's wrong?” he teased her while trying to feed her soup. Raising a brow at her refusal to eat his offering of soup spoonfuls. “should we skip to my breakfast?” putting a blush across her face that needed her to look away. “i guess so.” his voice turning strangely sweet. A deep breath from him turning to a strange crackling around his jaws. Beverly's attention snapping back toward him at first confused. Dread filling her chest while his jaws stretched in a recognizable way. Rows and rows of teeth showing all the way to the back of his throat appearing to disappear into a black void.

The scent of fear hitting the air as she shut her eyes tightly to look away. The last time this happened she was trapped in that burning bright light. Unwilling to look under the possibility of a repeat, but what could she do? Trapped as prey in his web that only he could free her from. Eyes opening wide when she felt all those rows of teeth gliding along her skin. His stretched jaws brushing up between her now spread thighs to clamp down. The top jaw spreading up from below to stop at her mid stomach they were so long. All those teeth eerily twitching at her skin to prickle drops of blood to the surface. His bottom jaw threatening to do the same around her entrance when she felt his tongue get in the way.

Whimpering as the long tongue licked up along her entrance. Entering more upon each lick to get the full taste of her. While she felt a difference from last time. Ridges lining along the further parts of his tongue twitching to his deep vibrating purrs. He was certainly going to get a good meal if he kept this up. Treating her like a sweet candy pop in swallowing her sweetness down to deep greedy licks in between. Holding her legs tight against his shoulders abling him to feel her every twitch. Hearing her flowing line of moans had him drool all the more over her. Speeding his hungry licks to bring each climax faster than the one before. Purring in satisfaction at the sight of her far too exhausted to do anything else now, but stay in bed with him. Swallowing one last mouthful before pulling his jaws away. Crackling noises sounding to his jaws shrinking back to normal. Lapping up the small amount of blood still seeping where his fangs pricked.

Curling up next to Beverly now officially bedridden for the rest of the day after his care. Sleeping deeply through the day and most the night before waking. Free from his threading she shifted a little to eat the room temperature soup that wasn't touched. Sitting at the edge of the bed that he noticed as odd behavior. Usually she would walk around the wagon after waking. Her expression showing annoyance as if she wanted to, but something was stopping her.

“not going to walk?” he asked.

“... my legs are jello.” admitting to him in a whisper.

He laughed. “of course they are.” smiling at her bright blushing face from his answer.

[patrick-in-the-junkyard]

Saturday Nights

Patrick Hockstetter x Reader

Note: Well guess who is back after months of procrastinating and stressing out. This has took me so long to start but I finally put work into it for two weeks and now its complete. Hopefully it’s not too bad.

Summary: After a long day, the gang has a bonfire with the newest member to the Bowers gang. As if they knew once they let out their biggest secret, that a little someone would try to take advantage of it.  

Warnings: Language, Smut/NSFW, Unprotected Sex, Choking, Harassment and Fighting.

Words: 7100+ (Oh boy I out did myself)

(GIF not mine)

  The transparent fog surrounded the dirt road leading to the “Big Bad” Bowers residence as it was an late Friday morning. Leaned against the side of Belch's precious Amy, you and the other guys waited for Henry himself to finish up fixing his messy mullet for the day. You grin as an noticeably annoyed Belch walked off the porch towards you while he fixed his hat.

    “If he takes another five minutes I’m gonna lose it.” Victor said, He was sitting at the steps of the porch.

    Belch’s right hand reached for the pack of Marlboro's and takes two cigarettes out. He offers you one with his lighter and of course you obliged and snatched it with a wink.

    Before you were able to light it, Patrick bumped into your side making you almost trample onto the dirty ground. His lustful grin and his deep emotionless eyes burned into your skull. It was like he was looking right into your soul. Your only reaction was to give him a piece of your mind by mocking his expressions.

    “What are you doing down there sweetheart, did I scare you much?” He tempted you, wanting you to try to say something back. You were unaware to who was walking off the porch.

    “You really think I'm scared, I bet you wish you can control me like one of your sluts huh?” You shot up and did your best to get a reaction. It didn’t even phase him as he sent you a look of ‘you really think so’.

    “Can you guys shut the fuck up and get in the car!” Henry stood by Belch and Victor who were both almost cracking up as you jumped. For you didn’t notice him arriving because tension between you and Patrick was high.

    You take the cigarette that was in your hand and place it in your jacket pocket and gave Belch his lighter back. You open the front door and jump in the backseat. The tiny uncomfortable space that was between Patrick and Victor couldn’t fit you. Which you’d mostly sit on Patrick’s lap with him ending up with a hard-on by the end of the ride. Belch started the car and took off with a fast start, leaving you to attempt to hold on.

    The car rides with the guys were wild, as the ride was filled with you all yelling random shit out at people. As you were terrible as them you would mostly target Greta Bowie, Sally Mueller, and Marica Fadden. Every time you’d spot them walking down the sidewalk it was your time. You’d climb over to the window and scream out curses and threats or throw your lit cigarettes at them, which was a waste but to you it was worth it. Which would make the Belch and Victor speechless how you can be such a normal new kid until you have the anger of Henry in a split second.  As you were classified as the Bowers gang queen around town. You could give two shits about what any person in this town thought about you.

    This morning was awfully quiet which the occasional flick of Patrick’s zippo or the sounds of rubber burning. Silence signaled Henry was in a not so good mood at this moment. During the ride, you felt a hand roughly land on your thigh. Patrick usually did this when he wanted your reaction. Which ended with you trying to smash his fingers with your fists, only earning a slight reaction from him.

    As you were way too focused on prying Patrick’s dirt covered fingers off of your thigh, Belch stomped on the breaks. The sudden break check made you three in the back fly forward. As you poked your head up, Henry was turned looking towards you. He had a huge grin on his face and pure enjoyment in his eyes.

    “You should have seen your fuckin’ faces!” He put off a small laugh before turning his back. At least he seemed to be in a better mood than he was earlier. As you settled back waiting to pull up at your destination, you pull out the cigarette from your pocket.

    “Hey Hen, can you pass the ashtray back here?” It took a minute after you requested he grabbed and passed it back.

    “Pat I need a light.” He ignored you as you sat there glaring at him, patently waiting for any sign of light. As you waited the car came to a stop. The ashtray was pasted back up and you cigarette was back in your pocket again. Patrick and you were the last ones to step out of the car. His lanky ass took his time as you resisted the urge to push him out. Everyone else was either outside the school or in the parking lot for lunch meaning you were late, very late.

    You all made your way through the other cars to the front of the building. The lady at the front groaned as she saw you and the boys walk in. She gave you a dead-eyed look and pushed the button to unlock the door.

    The bell rang as lunch was done for and the halls began to get crowded with screaming laughing teens. You all found a wall to hang out at as people passed been to come around the corner.

    “We should get to gym at least, so I get counted for something.” You started walking to the gym with the guys following. Entering you put a smile on and stood by the bleachers.

     “I’m gonna dress out, you guys don’t have to if you don’t want.” You turn but as you do Patrick tries to follow you only to be held back by Belch. Walking into the girls locker room, you go to your broken grey locker and undo the lock. Putting on the black uncomfortable shorts and the baby blue Derry High School P.E. shirt made you feel gross. You stretch your legs before you walk back out disregarding the stares from other girls. Coach Black came out screaming, of course he was mad like always.

     “Get into a straight line right now!” He screamed out as if steam was rising out his ears. It was hard not to just stand there and laugh but you stood still like a statue. 

     “Okay, now we are going to do our daily warm up.” The warm up consisted of jumping jacks, push ups, and sit ups. When you started Patrick began whistling and made everyone stop and turn around.

     “Why the hell are you guys not dressed out. Get dressed and joined the class now!” You frowned as they were now forced to change out instead of staying at the sidelines. While they changed Henry was pissed, very pissed to the point he was lucky he didn't punch the shit out of Patrick for bringing attention to them. He would of just resisted and cussed out the coach but if he got in trouble one more time there would be a worse thing waiting at home for him.

     “Look at this fuckin’ shit, I can barley fit into this.” Henry couldn’t stop ranting as he put on the t-shirt that was now too small. Patrick’s shirt was also too small as his belly button could be seen. When they walked out you couldn’t help but smile. They stood beside you as they did the warm up with you, trying to keep pace. Next of the P.E. torture was the running, you would be required to run around the gym for ten to fifteen minutes.  

     Henry, Victor, and Patrick ran around like it was a race and the grand prize was a good lay. You just walked, you really didn’t care as you definitely didn’t really want to run. Belch came to join you to walk as he didn’t feel like running either. As fast as the class began, it soon ended. The two of you walked to the front and you went back into the girls locker room and got dressed.

     When you got out the group was out and ready but there was one problem. Patrick and Henry were fighting over who should owe after they were all sent to dress out and participate. Henry suggested money for dinner at a pizzeria while Victor suggested movie tickets.

     “You owe us Pat and you better start earning up.” Henry spat, it was gonna be hard to stop anything if it starts. Henry began to walk out and you followed as it was time to go to the next class.

     Mr.Fromm was the teacher of your next class, the subject was English and it wouldn’t have been a bad class less you wouldn’t of failed the same class in a different state. The only thing bad was you and Patrick were the only ones in the group who had this class this period. Good thing you were separated as you sat by a kid a little younger than you. He was sorta annoying and you knew he was part of the “losers club” as Bowers said. He would not stop asking you for details about the bowers gang. 

     “Why is that you hang out with them, they are all fucked up in the head.“ The kid was unaware of Patrick listening in on the conversation. You paused, not even knowing how to respond to that.

     “If you got close with them you’d know why.” You went back to writing and not paying attention to the teacher. A wad of paper hit the back of your head and you turned around. You were face to face with Patrick and you immediately pick the note up.

     The note said “War after class.” as it was referenced they'd already had talk about it. 

     “What was that all about?” The kid fixed his glasses as he looked at you confused. You just looked over at him and gave him a simple grin.

     “You’ll hear about it soon.” The bell rang signaling it was time for the last period of the day. You stepped out with Patrick looking through the dozens of people for any sign of the others. Until you spoted them at the end of the hall.

     Patrick grabbed your arm and began to run dragging you along, leaving Henry to shout out. He pulled you behind a corner and put Pop Its in your hand. It was obvious it was about to be a war as the others caught up with you guys. Henry threw one at Patrick which popped on his face. You got a shot at Henry’s arm and he hissed at your shot. The hall was echoing with loud pops leaving the homeroom teachers and students curious to what the hell was that sound in the halls. Some students walked out of Mrs. Dumont’s class to see what was up. Fun was cut short as one of the teachers, Mr. Carson comes out of his classroom.

    “If you don’t stop that god damn racket, you five will be sent to the office. Do you understand?” His voice boomed through the halls laving you laughing as after Henry threw another one down. Sprinting down the halls as you caused chaos by dropping all of them down and outside through the back door of the school. After reaching the parking lot, Henry still ran while you and the other stood back.

    “I guess it’s back to the car,” Victor stated making you  as all the running got to you..

    “Do you guys want to have a bonfire tonight?” Belch asked as you all consider because you knew as you left there would be nothing else to really do. The four of you looked at each other before you opened your mouth and spoke.

    “Sure, but we’d have to stop at the store for snacks and shit.” You stated and the boys agreed. As you all got close to the car, Henry had the biggest smirk and the ‘ha bitches I’m first’ face.

    As you got in, Patrick pushed you over making you collide with Victor. He played it off by pushing you over and laughing.

    “What now?” Patrick asked Belch as he leaned over you reaching for the center console. He pulled out a bag of pebbles. Which meant he was going to throw them at innocent bystanders while you rode. You in complete boredom looked back out the window while tapping your nails on your thigh. Belch had turned the volume to the radio at maximum as he pressed the gas, sending you guys speeding through downtown Derry.

     The trip to the supermarket didn’t take long as you thought it would. It was decided that Belch was the one to go in the store since last time you almost got in trouble for having a shaving cream war. You specifically asked him to pick up some candy and chips. The boys had weird requests like cool whip and other shit like that. Henry laid back and lit a cigarette after Belch left keeping it out the window after taking a hit. Patrick moved closer to you as you zoned out as you leaned over with your face out the window.

     He was creeping again, like he always did around you. Thoughts of the weekend clouded throughout your mind blocked your senses of feeling. Victor paid no mind as if he knew what Patrick was attempting to do. Patrick’s hair was now on your shoulder as he leaned forward and licked your neck.

     “Whoa, what the hell is going on back there.” Henry was hanging over the center console, his face scrunched up at what he was seeing. Victor was laughing at your beet-red face as it looked like you were stuck in the ice for centuries.

     “Huh?” You said, confused as to why everyone was staring until you felt dripping wet saliva on your neck. You were disgusted as you realized what had happened. Shivers rushed down your spine as you began to rub your t-shirt’s fabric on your neck to remove the wetness. Five more minutes pass before the car door opened and grocery bags were tossed your way. Curious, you look inside and see “party supplies” as they always said. It contained chips, candy, cola, and random other snacks.

     "Hey Belch, got any liquor at home?" Patrick was of course wondering about alcohol as he always got smashed at these bonfire parties. Belch just nodded while fixing his mirror and pulled out onto the road.

     The loud blaring music blasting through the radio didn't bother you as you sat there twiddling your thumbs. Today didn't feel right as you felt like this wouldn't be no ordinary bonfire.

     After the long car ride to Belch’s, you all pile inside. Leftovers of last night had been placed on the kitchen counter along with bottles of hard liquor. At this point you’d knew you all would get hammed that night as you spoke. You tore at your jacket, anxious to what would be next.

     “What? You got cold feet or somethin’?” Victor asked, as if he knew what was flashing throughout you mind at this point. You shook your head, as you were worried what will happen with your parents when you return.

     “Reggie, can I use your phone!” You shouted as he was in the other room cleaning up and grabbing something. Henry just gave you a look of confusion before moving over to the fridge. You came to where Belch was, knocking the door making him jump out of his skin. The phone was in his hand and he waved you over.

     “This is for you.” His voice was low like something was off. You put your ear to the phone only hearing silence.

     “Hello...?” You waited for what seemed like minutes until a loud voice came on the other side.

     “What the hell are you doing with those nasty boys, you slut! You need to be home cleaning the god damn house like your father said!” You cringed as your mother’s loud voice rung through your ears. By now your ears were red from anger.

     “Suck a fucking dick!” You yelled back only leaving your “mom” on the other side silent. The sound of ringing and a blaring children’s TV program could be heard before you slammed the phone down, making it hang up with a ring. The loud stomps from your boots echo throughout the wooden floor as you walked to the kitchen again. Patrick jumped out from the side of the fridge, making you only look at him with disappointment at his failed attempt of scaring you. You looked around, as you knew that the boys were already in the living room. Chips were sprawled all over the marble counter that was covered in juice that was spilled last night by Belch.

     Laughter was heard from the other side of the room which leads to the living room, you knew they were already watching something that was playing on TV. You trailed into the living room already seeing some stupid show on TV depicting people falling over. Sometimes you questioned why you hung out with them but it always leads you to the realization you acted the same way. You just threw the lighter that you grabbed on the counter at Belch which made him flinch as he caught it.

     “Aren’t we supposed to have a bonfire?” You questioned the boys as you gave them a confused glare. Victor took the lighter from Belch’s lap as he jumps off the couch for a head start outside. Henry gave a look as he got up and followed Victor as he loudly stomped. You took a moment to calmly collect yourself as you stepped through the back door that leads to the wooden patio. Weather in Derry at this time was windy and felt like the beginning of fall. Goosebumps ran down your arms as you were shivering from the cold.

     “Get the hairspray, Hockstetter.” Henry spat as he stared down at the pile of leaves and sticks waiting to be burned. With no words, Patrick pulled out the tiny can of hairspray from his pocket with his zippo and with no hesitation lit the pile in flames. You felt like laughing at that moment because it was so obvious that he would be he one lighting the fire. Instead, you kept quiet, because if you made one judging sound you’d end up waking up with a creep staring at you while you slept.

     “You feeling alright sugar?” Belch looked up at you as he was lazily leaning on a lawn chair. You perked up giving him a nod and a simple smile that made Belch melt inside. Looking at the ground beside Belch, you just decide to pop a seat next to him. Patrick gives you a concerned look as you get closer to the fire, trying to warm up your hands. Henry disappeared into the house and you could help but grin as you knew what he was grabbing. The boys waited in anticipation as they sat waiting for Henry to come back out. He stumbled out, his arms wrapped around about five bottles of liquor. You’d know they would all be trashed by morning. The bottles were sat on the tree stump next to him, which to no surprise Patrick stood up in a single second to walk over to get some. He took two cups and poured a mixture into both cups, making sure his concoction would do the trick. With a sly smile he walks step by step towards you holding out the drink to you.

     “Had to pour some for you. Take it!” You were hesitant as he shoved the drink in your face. Henry just gave Patrick a goofy grin as you've never actually drank with them.

     “Do it. Do it. Do-” The guys chant was cut off as you swiped it from him and chugged it whole. Patrick followed after, practically inhaling it and smashing the cup. Henry cheered as the others gave you semi worried glances as to what you had just done. You of course got you candy out of the bag laying on the ground and began you chow down on your Chick-O-Stick.

     Around the time it was getting dark a whole set of new wood was put on the fire to keep it glowing. It was also when the alcohol kicked in after you were given more from Patrick.

    “I know what we could do.” Patrick broke the silence, now starting to glare at you.

     “And what is that going to be?” Victor stated un-pleased as if this whole scenario has already played out before many times.

    “Truth-or Dare.” Your face drooped as you heard him finish as you’d knew something horrible would end up happening.

   “Oh shit, we haven’t done it while around her so I think its time we should. Like you know try to use this to learn some freaky shit bout her.” Victor added as if she wasn’t even ten steps away from him. You were speechless as you were still processing what was going on.

   “Alright, who wants to start this mess.” Belch asked which made it clear to point out Victor wanted to start.

   “So Henry, truth or dare?” Victor asked, making Henry take a second to question what to pick.

   “Truth...” Henry hesitantly said which followed with Patrick calling him a pussy which he gave a glare that cut the shit.

   “Okay, is it true that you invited (Y/N) to the group a month and a half ago to get a piece of her ass?” You sat there in a drunken shocked statement while Henry’s face became completely pale.

   “Well yeah at first I wanted her as a piece of ass but she’s a badass like us and deserves to stay.” It was an okay answer but for you it was awkward to handle.

   “Okay so sugar, who was the last guy you fucked?” Henry asked, which was going to be the biggest mistake for you to answer.  

   “Well, I’ve never fucked anyone to be honest, I’ve barley even made out with anyone.” You answered making the boys shocked as Belch spat his liquor out.

   “So wait, let me get this straight. You’ve never been laid? That’s so crazy.” You felt embarrassed at Victor’s comment but couldn’t help but notice Patrick’s glare the way he licked his lips at you. As you were still drunk you still knew you fucked up for giving a truthful answer.

    For the rest of the time was spent on doing stupid dares like when Belch was dared to jump over the burning flames of the pit. Which ended him burning the end of his pants making the others laugh as he jumped around and you being the only one to help him out. Or the terrible detailed questions about Victor’s one night stand with the waitress who worked at the Italian restaurant at the corner of downtown Derry (That’s a story for another time). Patrick kept looking at you continuously as each person did a dare or said a truth. By the end you began to pass out as it was becoming to be dawn. You were were sleeping peacefully as the soothing sound of the fire popping and cracking continued.

    You woke up, head pounding as your vision is blurry. Certainly you were trashed from last night and now you are paying hell for it. Your vision began to become a little more clear and you realized you were now only dressed in Patrick’s shirt and nothing else. Blindly, you get up forgetting about how dizzy you were as you fall over onto the ground. Sobbing turns to screaming as your head began to pound leaving you only to freak out. Henry stood up from the other sofa, rolled you over and did his best to soothe you as you cried out.

    “You're gonna be alright. Belch come quick!” He called for him to come get you to try to get you up. He walked in, quickly rushing to you and lifting you up by the waist, a gently walking you to his room and laid you down onto his bed. He left for another few minutes and came back to you with a cool cup of water.

    “Are you gonna be alright?” He asked rubbing your back and you nodded as you couldn’t get a single word out. After downing it whole you laid down, trying to get rid of the current headache.

    “Last night you passed out while we were still talking then you sat up while asleep and proceeded to throw up on yourself. You got it all over your clothes and I was the one to bring you inside. I was the one that helped you out of your clothes and Pat gave me his shirt for you to wear.” You gave him a smile and hugged him. He was like a big brother to you and always kept you safe.

    “If I were you I’d get some more sleep and something in my system and come hang with us later. We’ll be waiting by then.” Your eyes slowly closed and you went back to sleep. 

     You woke up now feeling only a little bit better so you called for Belch.  Belch helped you up and walked you to the kitchen. You still didn’t have pants on but you didn’t mind as you knew you would be protected. 

    “I’ll get you some clothes, Henry please watch over her and make sure Patrick doesn’t do anything.” You got into the fridge and pulled out a can of Fresca out and poured it into a cup. Not paying attention behind you as you took a sip, Patrick pressed his body against you. His bulge was pressed against your ass and his hand gripped your throat tight.

    “That shirt looks good on you, but I’d bet it looks good off.” He whispered into your ear, making you struggle as an attempt to get him off of you.

    You felt him let go as soon as Henry pushed him off making him almost stumble to the ground. Victor moved you over beside him and soon enough Belch came out with new clothes that looked like they were from his moms closet.

    “I don’t think mom would mind if you borrow these especially if it was an emergency.” He handed the clothes to you and you walked back to the room to change. Your outfit was a long, yellow skirt and a black belt with a white sweatshirt. The outfit was cute but you didn’t know how the gang would think. Before you walk out you fix your hair making it less messy than it was this morning. You stepped out and walked back to the kitchen to your cup of Fresca, finishing it. Henry whistled at the sight of you and Patrick in his mind knew he had to at least lift that skirt by the end of the night.  

    “You ready sugar?” Henry questioned you, surprisingly he couldn’t keep his eyes off you.

    “Yeah I guess so.” You replied, making them start for the door as they were ready to get going on the road.

    You were all in the car again and headed to the junkyard. It wasn’t a pretty sight to see but it was a fun place to hang out at as you five knew. The usual spot was in the middle where there was nothing but an empty space and surrounded by broken down cars. It was pretty peaceful as nothing really was around and barely any sound. Henry lead you guys in after leaving the car, climbing over the fence and walking through bushes and branches.

    Halfway in you made another mistake of that weekend was when you stopped to tie your shoe. When you looked back up they were gone out of sight, making you lost and alone through the rows of cars and junk littered on the ground. It was noticeably getting dark and you feared of being stuck completely. Thoughts of your dead corpse laying in front of a broken car flashed through your head. It made you start to run as if you didn’t think it would get you anymore lost. After running for a few minutes you pause, catching your breath. 

     Noticing something unusual you began to move closer to what was a run down fridge someone placed there. A twig snapped as you walked closer, and closer until. You got pushed into the door face first almost knocking you out, and making your nose trickle with blood.The hands on your sides turned you to face whoever has you pinned to the fridge. Tears ran down your face as the pain of your nose was unbearable. Of course it was Patrick who had you pinned, looking at your face and bloody nose with a creepy grin.

    “You are so irresistible, you know that? You make me want to bend you over a car and fuck you until you're almost lifeless.” He whispered into your ear that made you shiver. His lips landed on your neck, sucking and biting, doing his best to mark you to show everyone who you would belong to. This was so wrong to you but deep inside you wanted him, you couldn’t keep a groan from slipping out your lips. He placed tongue sloppily all over your neck, leaving big wet spots of saliva dripping down to the fabric covering the rest of your neck. You felt his grin on your skin as he brought his hand up to your breast, rubbing your nipples through the fabric making a sweet moan slip out.

    He paused to look around before pulling your shirt up and took your nipple into his mouth. Sucking and rubbing his tongue around it before biting down,  causing sweet moans and whimpers kept him going as he brought one hand down to palm his hard on in his jeans. 

    “If I’d known you were as innocent and untouched, I would of fucked you the first day.” He spoke as his grip on his clothed cock tightened, causing him to grip your breast in his other hand tight. It was turning heated and you were wondering how it would end.

     It was when branch snapping and the sound of footsteps that made you push him off you. Making you stand up dusting your shirt off and making you rub your bloody nose.

    “Follow me.” He grabbed your arm and dragged you out to where the exit of the junkyard was. You both rushed over the fence, and he lead you away as fast as you guys could so you two could never be noticed by the others. Patrick’s house was awfully close to the junkyard but you didn’t question it. He opened the front door, which was surprisingly unlocked. The first to walk in was you as soon as the door shut and locked, there was no way out of this.

    He drags you up the stairs with a tight and firm grip on your arm, making you almost trip more than twice. When you were finally in his bedroom, he was practically drooling at the thought of taking your innocence. He pushed you on the bed, knocking the breath out of you. His hands pulled his shirt over his head and started pulling at his belt. You just sat there speechless and frozen as your brain tried to process that this was actually happening.

   “Take your fucking shirt off!” You began to pull your sweater off at his orders. The cool air in the room hit your breasts as the feeling of the warm  fabric was no more. He was now kneeling under his bed, scrambling to grab something. His head rose to look at you now topless, he does a ‘come here’ with his finger at you. Crawling to him until you reached the edge of the bed when he moves both your hands together and ties a scarf around both your wrists tight.

     “What would the boys say if they seen their innocent little princess’s wrist tied and topless like this? Especially while in my bed.” He spoke in amusement as he laid you back down. 

   His frame towered over you on the bed and he began to leave more bites on your neck. His face lifted and he looked into your eyes like he was a zombie, no emotion at all. He placed sloppy kisses on your lips, swirling his tongue with yours. He trailed his tongue lower to your breasts again, taking time to lick them both. 

     “Tell me, so no man has touched you at all?” You looked at him with pleading eyes as his finger pinches your left nipple.  

     “I’ve never- been touched like-.” You couldn’t stop but stutter out only half of your sentence. His finger tips trailed to the pretty sunflower yellow skirt as he lifted it to see the un matching pair of pink panties you were wearing. He could see that your panties were soaked from his treatment. Laying over, he put your legs on his shoulder. It was hard for you to hold on something as your hands were tied so all you could do was lean back onto his bed. He placed his tongue on the soaked fabric, getting only a little bit of your taste as he licked between your lips. 

     “Please, Plea-!” You pleaded for him to take the hint to take your panties off so you could feel his wet mouth finally meet your aching pussy. He looked up while he was tracing letters into the cotton. Only taking a break to answer your plea. 

     “Please what, use your words sugar.” Teasingly, his fingers slipped over the lacy pink waist band. Wiggling them slowly down before he pulls them up causing 

     “Please- take them off of me.” You spoke trying to persuade him to take your panties off. He took no time to rip them off of you. His head went back down, taking in your scent. Placing kisses on your sensitive lips testing out what would set you off. Then he began to trace again but this time he made quick circles around your clit. Your hips lifted off the bed and your legs shook. He continued on to lick and trace your clit with the flick of his tongue. He then stuck his pointer finger in, automatically twisting and pumping it in a medium pace. You couldn’t help but scream out as you felt like you were going to explode. He took notice at your cries and the way your legs shook. He lifted his mouth leaving you displeased and not satisfied.

    He got off of you and began pull his belt off and unzip his pants. He pulled them down leaving his light grey long johns on. You could see the trail of hair leading down to the waist band. The imprint of his bulge was too hard not to notice as you could see his pre-cum leaving an imprint through the fabric. His hand reached down to his cock at the sight of you. Sweaty and red faced all because of him.  

     You got off the bed and sat in front of him as you seen this scenario played out in a porno tape that was left around by your dad. On your knees, you were now faced to face with his crotch. You looked up at him with puppy dog eyes as if you were asking for a sign from your new god.  He lifted your hands up and untied them for the moment

    “Go on pull em out, it wont bite.” Your shaky hands placed on the edge of the waste band and began to pull the thing down. As you got a quarter way down you could see the tip of his cock peak out at you. Boy, were you nervous as hell, after pulling it all the way down his cock left you speechless. He was was a bit over average as you could see and painfully erect. 

    You first took him by your hand and placed his tip on your lips, giving it messy kisses before sliding a little bit at a time into your mouth.

    “Come on you can take more than that.” He put his hands in your hair and his nails in your scalp. Your nose soon reached his skin as you tried to take as much of him into your mouth. It wasn’t as pleasing for him until he took your hair into a make shift ponytail. His hips rutted into your face and you couldn’t help but gag. You looked up at him, his eyes were closed and his mouth open and in that grin. For a moment you even thought that you heard him growl. Tears started streaming down your face every thrust. You pulled you mouth off his cock for a breath of fresh air. You took your hand and began rubbing his cock while catching your breath. He took your hand off him in a rush and pulled you up facing him.

     “Lay down and get cozy.” He said as he stood back pulling the long johns fully off his legs. You laid back with skirt up and your legs spread open, you felt like this was all a dream. He laid down, body over yours and he picks your legs up and over his shoulders. His cock rubbed against your slit, testing to see how wet you were. He lined his cock up and pushed in, causing you to scream at the pain. No one told you it would hurt this bad especially since he didn’t stop to take a break after pushing it all in. He went at a hard and fast pace and you couldn’t help but cry, your nails scratching deep marks into his back. He whispered dirty things into your ear like he didn’t know how you felt at the moment. 

     As if anything couldn’t get worse for you, he began choking you with his hands. You began to struggle your body shaking and your hand trying to remove his strong grip. It was like you were gonna die and he would throw your corpse in the junkyard. All you could get out was shallow breaths and squeaks as his grip tightened. You were going to die and you could do nothing about it

     Before you passed out something affected him making him slow down and let go of your neck. It was like he felt something about you was real. Noticing him stop, through the tears you look at him. He actually looked concerned, but it was the first time he got concerned around you. He kept the pace slow for your liking even though deep inside he wanted to break your neck and fuck till you bled. He leaned down kissing you sloppily as he slowly pounded you. 

     He eyes shut tight and his breathing became heavy and you just laid there watching him with teary eyes. His hips rutted fast as his face now dug into your neck. His cum spurted into you, filling you up. Many thoughts ran through your mind. By tomorrow you definitely needed to run to the drug store for some Danazol. He pulled out and got up cleaning his bloody cock with a dirty towel he picked off of the ground. You moved off his bed and stood, uncomfortable from the leftover feel of the stinging feel of sex.

     “Get dressed and fixed then ill walk with you downtown.” He mumbled putting his shirt on. You snatched up your sweat shirt and head out looking for the bathroom. As you go in you turn on the light, you freaked out.

     You looked in the mirror, tracing the dark hand marks and hickeys on your neck before you take a wet wipe and wipe the dry blood off your nose. How were you gonna cover this when you get home, how were you gonna hide it from the boys. You knew that as soon as you walk out your house you’ll be noticed by many people. After going to the bathroom you took time looking decent picking up a hair brush and brushing the knots out of your hair and spraying his mothers perfume on.

     Walking out you directly came face to face Patrick, a proud smile on his face. You stood there speechless confused to what he wanted now.

     “I hope you know something, your mine now. No guy can touch you or else he’ll get fucked up.” He took you hand and led you outside before you could protest. And it began your long dark walk to downtown possibly to the arcade to wait for the others to hopefully come around. 

     Derry in during dusk was terrifying then usual specifically when you started hearing about kids disappearing and the curfew that barley anyone followed since the arcade and theater was open till midnight. Patrick hooked onto you as if he was actually scared of losing you.

     You and Patrick passed by the Derry Public Library was when you were spotted. Belch, Henry and Victor became worried since they noticed you and Patrick vanish at the junkyard. They noticed you and they pulled over in front of you. Belch stopped the car and jumped out along with Henry, Belch came to you and hugged you. It was like you went missing for five years and randomly reappeared. 

     “Where the fuck did you guys go?” You said nothing to Henry’s question and that was when Victor joined in.

     “Where were you even going?” Belch asked and this time you spoke because Patrick wasn’t being a help.

     “We were- headed to the arcade.” You  got nervous as the lamppost near you turned on. It made your marks noticeable and Belch was the one who noticed and took you aside. While away from the other he looked deep into your soul. 

     “Did you actually do it?” His words broke you as you started crying as you felt that he was mad at you. You fell into his arms, sobbing on his shoulder. It wasn’t until Henry came over and seen also, his eyes widened at the how your neck was bruised like that. That was until he processed the situation and his face got red in a millisecond. In a fit of anger he turned around.

     “What the fuck did you do!” He started stomping to Patrick as he yelled out in frustration. It was gonna take a long night of arcade games and talking for it to at least be a little bit normal between you all. But it left you with one huge question for yourself.

     “How was it going to ever get better?”

Taglist: @pattycake-hockstetter and @forgottencandy

[mitchsmarners]

SEMI CHARMED LIFE

summary: “You guys have kept in contact this whole time?” Bill asked, brow disappearing underneath hair line as he looked like his old friends in amazement. “And you guys are.. what? Room mates?”

Eddie avoided looking at Richie as he answered. “Yeah, uh… room mates. Something like that.���

[or: the adult!losers reunion, done 2000s sit-com style, just like we all deserve.]

chapter count: 1/?

Ben Hanscom kicked at the dirt path alongside the Barrens. It was as just as obviously a foot-made path as it had been twelve years earlier, the last time Ben had walked down here. Back then, he had never been walking alone- always flanked with two or more of his friends from youth.

For safety, Ben remembered bitterly. It had been little Eddie Kaspbrak who had made the first statement, that nobody should go into the Barrens alone, after Ben had been attacked that day. They hadn’t even been my friends, Ben thought to himself. He picked at long, overgrown yellowing grass alongside the path. I’d only known Beverly then, but they’d stood by me. Stole supplies for me. Even though it put them higher on Henry Bowers’ shit list.

Henry Bowers… Ben let out a shaky laugh, pressing his hand against the long faded scar on his stomach. It was barely visible now days, over a decade faded in age and dimmed with the loss of his childhood weight. That day, though undoubtably terrible, had been the last day for many years that Ben Hanscom had been able to say he didn’t have any friends.

Those same friends that Ben hadn’t been spoken to near on a decade, people he’d considered to be his soul mates and thought he’d never separate from. They’d graduated high school, moved across the country, and by the time the summer of 1996 rolled around- they didn’t even speak at all.

Until Derry High School had sent out the e-mails, announcing that in the May of 2005 that they would be holding a 10 year reunion for the graduates of 1995. Mike Hanlon had reached out not long after that. Ben had a Facebook, used it for his work, and had looked up his former friends after hearing from Mike. Most of them had not taken the leap to website, but two had.

Richie Tozier, who seemed to embraced his given name of Richard, seemed to only have work friends on his Facebook as well. He’d gone into work with radio, such a Richie job Ben had thought fondly when he’d realized. There was a slight illusion of some sort of serious relationship on Richie’s Facebook, if just from small comments of his own and that of his friends. He didn’t list a relationship status, nor any name of the radio station he worked for. Ben had scrolled through Richie’s page for his entire lunch break and still hadn’t reached the end.

Beverly Marsh had also gone online with Facebook, but had taken a longer time for Ben to find. At some point in the last ten years, Beverly had gone and tied the knot. Her Facebook name now fell under Bev Rogan and was listed as Married to Thomas Rogan. Her privacy settings were much higher than Richie’s- which had easily been non-existent, so Ben hadn’t been able to see any of her personal posts. He supposed that was for the best, if the uncomfortable feeling in his gut at just the thought of Beverly being married had anything to say about it- he wouldn’t have been able to look at Beverly’s happy life.

Ben moved himself up the steep hill, and walked back to his patiently waiting cab. His overly friendly driver grinned up at in the rearview mirror. “Anything interesting down there?” He asked him happily.

“Yeah, yes,” Ben said, voice croaking. “I was just…” An image of bulky thick rimmed glasses, and burning red hair flashed in Ben’s mind. “Just visiting some old ghosts.”  

→  →  →

“Just not too hot!” Eddie Kaspbrak was calling over his shoulder as his husband was attempting to assure him out the front door. “You know not to make it too hot, it’s really important. If it’s too hot, it’ll-“

“Eddie, sweetheart,” Maggie Tozier laughed happily, patting her starting to winkle hand against Eddie’s soft cheek. “I’ve done this once or twice. You don’t have anything to worry about, sweetie. Go see your friends, have good time.”

“Yes, I-” Eddie nodded, feeling Richie’s arm coming to rest around his waist. “I know, I know. But we have a very particular schedule we’ve been working with and if it’s-“

“Okay,” Richie pressed a quick kiss to Eddie’s cheek then grinned at his mother. “We’re going to get going, before we’re late and Eddie says something rude that he doesn’t mean.” Eddie grumbled, but flushed and leaned into his husband’s gentle touch. “Love you, Ma. Thanks so much for doing this. Tell Dad we’ll go out for a drink before we head home.”

Maggie rolled her eyes. “He’s your father. Tell him yourself.” Richie gave a matching eye roll, ushering Eddie out of the door and shutting it behind them.

→  →  →

“Who’s a good boy?” Mike Hanlon cooed as his six month old golden retriever, Henry, jumped up on him with his paws landing in Mike’s awaiting hands. “You are! You’re the goodest boy!”

Mike’s boyfriend, Alexander, padded into the farm house’s kitchen in his flannel house coat with a steaming cup of what could only be coffee in his hand. He grinned at Mike and shook his head. “Don’t say things like that. You’re going to give the other animals a complex.”

Mike beamed. “They can’t hear me from in here.”

“You don’t know that.”

Mike and Alexander had been together going on two years now. Six months earlier, Mike’s father had been diagnosed with Alzheimer Disease, and when Mike had expected to loose out on the best relationship of his life because of the time he’d be (willingly) giving up to care for his father, Alexander had surprised him for the millionth time since Mike had met him. He’d jumped right into the situation, moving his things into the Hanlon’s farmhouse and taking up what Mike felt might be a little more than his shared of responsibilities.

“When are you meeting your friends?” Alexander asked, jumping to sit up on the countertop with his legs dangling.

Mike sighed, scooping his pup into his arms and pressing his face into his fur. “Soon. Really soon. I should get going if I’m going to make into town in time.”

Alexander raised his eyebrows. “Wasn’t this whole get up your idea? Why do you seem so reluctant to actually go?”

Mike walked forward and dropped Henry into his boyfriend’s ready open arms. “I’m not reluctant… I’m definitely excited to see them. It’s just… it’s been a long time, you know? I guess I’m nervous.”

Alexander nodded, scratching behind Henry’s floppy ear. “I don’t think you need to be worried. If even half the things you told me about your old friends are true, you’re going to click back to who you were immediately.”

→  →  →

Beverly Rogan had stepped off the train in Derry and had absolutely no idea what the hell she was doing. The town of Derry hadn’t changed in the decade since she’d turned her away from it and never looked back. Same stores that looked like they hadn’t been renovated since the 1960s, same people on the streets giving her dirty looks- just a little bit older. She hadn’t even come back to this place when her father had died six years earlier, and could barely explain to herself why she was coming back now. It certainly wasn’t to celebrate her days at Derry High School.

She hadn’t been able to explain it to her husband, either. Tom didn’t like surprises, and he very much did not like surprises that including his wife packing up half her belongings and getting on a train. Belongings she was still carrying on with her, which was only drawing more eyes to her. Tom Rogan was a good guy, but as Beverly had learned slowly- not the best husband. He was neglectful and didn’t’ seem to have any idea of how to make a person truly happy. She’d walked out to return to her high school reunion, and didn’t know she if she’d been walking out on her marriage overall.

Beverly stood outside the old Dancing Clown diner, knowing that she was early, knowing that she’d never given Mike a straight answer on whether or not she was coming. Inhaling deeply, she started up to the building and went inside.

→  →  →

Bill Denbrough tripped and nearly fell down the flight of stairs at parents house. He bounced into the living room, trying to stuff his foot into a sock. His twenty-one year old brother barely even looked up from video game and let out a laugh. “Ha. Fucking loser.”

“You’re one to talk,” Bill shot back, licking his lips and frowning to try to keep himself from stuttering. It was never as bad as when he was back in Derry, there were times when he could years without stuttering if he didn’t make a home visit. “When’s the last time you got off that cuh-couch?”

George held up a half eaten Pizza Pocket and shook it in display. Bill made a disgusted noise and looked over at his father, who’d yet to glance up from his book since breakfast that morning. Turning away, Bill grabbed a jacket from rack by the front door and shrugged it on. The air was still crisp in Maine this early in May, he was lucky Audra had thought to bring them. Despite being the native Maine-r, Bill often forgot what life was like living in Maine. It sometimes felt almost like a repression, and everything was burning into his mind that second he crossed into the state like. Never mind once they’d ridden into Derry.

Bill and Audra had spent the better part of the last year in England, sending their belongings to their unlived in New York apartment while themselves and enough things for the weekend made their way to Derry.

“You’re leaving now?” Audra asked, appearing by Bill’s side as he started putting his boots on. He looked up at his girlfriend of three years and smiled at her. “Have fun, I hope your friends are as awesome as you remember them being. When you get back, there’s something I’ve got to talk to you about.”

“No, no no, hey no,” Bill stood up straight and took Audra’s hands into his own. “You can’t pull that on me, baby. You know I’ll be able to do is worry about what you’re going to tell me the whole time. Just tell me now.”

Audra smiled. “You don’t need to worry about it right now.”

“But I will, if you don’t tell me what it is?” Bill said, rubbing his thumbs against the backs of Audra’s hands. “Please just tell me.”

“I’m pregnant.”

→  →  →

“Are you going to go inside?” Patty Blum asked, taping the steering wheel and making her engagement ring flash in the sunlight that cast through the car window.

“Maybe.” Stanley Uris replied, picking at his peeling bottom and staring out at the Dancing Clown diner. “Definitely maybe.”

Patty sighed, part annoyed, part fond and turned off the car. She twisted in her seat and gave her fiancée the stare down. ‘If you didn’t want to come here, why didn’t you say so?”

Stan made a loud and offended noise. “I did say so! I said so very many times actually! You just ignored me, packs our backs for us and told me to stop being dramatic.” Stan crossed his arms and goodness nearly pouted.

Patty rolled her eyes. “You were being dramatic. I’m still not sure what your issue is… why are you so afraid of seeing your old friends?”

Stan pressed his head against the head rest of the seat. “I did some shit that I’m not proud of. My best friend… I… I was so desperate to get away from this place, and I kind of betrayed him.”

“So, you’re not going to go in there because you’re afraid of your high school best friend that you stabbed in the back ten years ago?” Patty chuckled. “If it’s eating you up this badly, I can promise he’s moved on. You’re going to go in there, and you’re talk to him, and you’re going find out all the amazing things he’s done since this stupid betrayal that probably means nothing now. And you’ll tell him yours, and he’ll be happy for you and if he’s not- then fuck him.”

Stan cupped Patty’s cheek and kissed her lightly. “Have I told you yet today that I love you?”

“Mmm once or twice,” Patty said lightly. “But it’s always nice to hear it. Now go get em, baby. Call me if you need somebody to pick you up.”

Stan nodded, slipped out of the car and walked into the old diner. His eyes moved through until it fell onto what had once been the Losers Table and saw an all too familiar looking red head seated. Grinning to himself, he tucked his hands into the back pockets of his jeans and stepped up beside the table. Beverly looked like she walked straight to the diner from however she’d gotten into town, her bags all jammed underneath the table.

“Well, would you look what the cat dragged in?” Stan said in a happy voice that he hoped didn’t sound too forced. Forced or not, Beverly beamed at his greeting and quickly jumped to her feet. Even in high school, Bev had been shorter than Stan and that had been before Stan had hit that oh so rare growth spurt in his freshman year of college.  

“Stanley!” Beverly said cheerfully, squeezing his hips. “Stan the MAN! Look at you! You’ve got to be as tall as Richie now!”

Stan smiled bashfully- his perfect dimple smile, as Patty always called it- and slid into the booth beside her. They both kicked at the luggage under the table, giggling to each other like children. The diner seemed oddly deserted, a place that had been so important to them growing up, now seemed ready to close with a single moment’s notice. The door jingle open and Mike Hanlon, the man breaking into a deep grin the second he caught sight of his friends.

“Stanley Uris and Beverly Marsh,” Mike said in a laugh as Beverly leapt right back up to her feet and rushed at him. Mike patted at the top of her head, smiling softly at Stan from across the diner. “Why am I not surprised that you two beat me to my own event?”

“Why am I not surprised that you’re the only person who lives in Derry and you couldn’t even be the first person here?” Stan shot back dryly, standing as well and clasping Mike on the shoulder. The words seemed to hang in the air for moment, heavy and tense, before Mike simply smiled and they took their seats back around the diner table.

“You stayed in Derry?” Beverly asked, eyes widening as she slipped in to sit beside Mike. There was the distinct sound of three pairs of feet kicking at Beverly’s aggressive amount of luggage while Mike avoided making eye contact with Stan. “I thought you went to NYU with Eddie?”

“I was going to,” Mike said in light voice. “That was the plan but you know how life can be. Things get a little mixed up and then..”  The bell to the door rang out again, stealing the attention from all three former Losers. Bill Denbrough nearly stumbled into the diner, pale and looked dazed, seeming almost as though they’d came in by accident. He dropped into the booth without so much of a greeting, and dropped his hand onto Stanley’s shoulder. Stan crinkled his nose up in repulsion and forced himself to allow that distantly familiar touch.

“How you doin’ honey?” Beverly asked gently, looking between Mike and Stan’s worried gazes.

Bill groaned deeply, pressing his face harder into the crock of Stanley’s neck. “Life is terrible, nothing good happens to anybody and then we all die.”

Stanley coughed awkwardly. “Listen, Bill… I appreciate your struggle, but if you could please…”

“Sit up, man,” Mike said a little sharply and Bill startled upwards. “Oh, shit, Stan, I’m so sorry, I tuh-tuh-totally forgot!”

“It’s fine,” Stan said mildly, waving Bill’s apology off. “Is it really that bad being back in Derry? I know it’s no back packing trip through Europe but…”

Bill barked out a laugh while Beverly shook her head. “What, Stan? Did you keep tabs on us for the last ten years? Should we be worried?”

Stan shook his head. “Not all of you.”

The ringing silence danced over the table before Mike cleared his throat awkwardly. “You mean Richie, right? Stan, I really don’t think that Richie-“

“Don’t think I what?” Richie’s voice called over from where he was ducking into the entrance with an arm tossed around one Eddie Kaspbrak. The entire group of former Losers jumped, Stan feeling his heart leapt into his throat. “You guys all already talking shit about mem before I’m even here to defend myself?”

“Yup,” Beverly agreed, tears starting to well up into her eyes. “You have to know that somethings never change, don’t ya?”

Richie hummed, dropping his arm from Eddie’s shoulder to catch Beverly as she came running for him. Eddie laughed lightly, as Richie spun Bev around and narrowly avoided knocking over several chairs. He slid into Beverly’s seat, greeting Mike with a tight hug and smiling towards Bill and Stan across the table. As Beverly attempted to sit back beside Eddie, Richie slipped in before in and took the spot. Beverly raised her brow as she moved in beside Bill, muttering something under her breath about somethings really don’t change.

Richie gave a over joyous greeting to Mike, his voice sobering up as he glanced across the table towards Bill and Stan. He gave one simple nod, forced a small smile and pushed out one simple: “Lads.”

“Richard.” Stan said back through a dry throat. Eddie reached out and began fiddling with the sugar dispenser, Mike noting the discolour of paler skin on his ring finger and frowning.

“What are we all talking about?” Eddie asked, speaking fast and voice high. Stan almost smiled at the memories of Eddie’s nervous voice, the kind he only used when desperate to talk about anything else.

“Billy here was about to tell us about his backpacking trip in Europe with his movie star girlfriend,” Beverly jumped in, pinching at Bill’s cheeks.

“No fucking shit, Denbrough?” Richie laughed, fingers twitching as though desperate to return to a muscle memory habit but being unable to. “I always knew you were going to do some high living, but fuck, dude.”

“She’s not really a movie star,” Bill said, swaying slightly like he may be sick. “She’s a had a few roles in some B Lists and guest star roles on main broadcast television. She’s no Winona Ryder or anything.”

“Obviously,” Stan and Richie spoke up in unison, voices dancing in harmony. “Nobody could be Winona Ryder except Winona Ryder.”

Another awkward silence settled over the table, Stan biting his lip and looking down at the diner table while Richie looked up at the ceiling as though pissed with himself. Beverly thought she noticed Eddie’s hand slipping underneath the table, but was quickly pulled away from the moment by the diner’s door opening once more.

Ben Hanscom stumbled into the diner, out of breath and with mud stains on his jeans. He ran his fingers through his curlier-than-she-remembered hair as his danced through the diner until they landed on her. She watched the way the muscles in his neck hitched, as though he’d momentarily forgotten how to breathe, and she felt her lungs follow his inabilities for just a moment.

“Here we go,” Richie leaned over and whispered to Eddie, who pursed his lips in an attempt not to laugh. “Haystack! My main man! The biggest dick I’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing! Pull up at a chair!”

Ben’s cheeks turned a deep red, and the rest of the table all burst out laughing as Ben followed through with Richie’s request. “Come on, Rich, we all know you haven’t even seen Ben’s dick.” Bill said with the first genuine smile he’d cracked since he’d gotten there.

Richie gave Bill a dark, deadpan expression. “You don’t know what I’m into.”

“Oh… Kay..” Bill said slowly, frowning to himself while Eddie nudged Richie’s shoulder gently.. “Suh-suh-sorry, I guess?”

Richie shook his head, and forced a quick smile. “It tis no problem, misuser! But as we have all arrived now, why don’t we give a quick run down of a decade! Eds and I here are still out in the big apple-“

“You and Eddie live together?” Beverly cut across him, frowning in confusion. Richie opened his mouth, then snapped it shut before looking towards Eddie. Eddie cleared his throat and smiled.

“After what happened with UCLA, Richie came with me to NYU instead of staying in Derry,” Eddie said with a shrug. “Since Mike wasn’t going to go anymore, we moved into the apartment together and I just we just never… stopped living together.”

“So, You guys have kept in contact this whole time?” Bill asked, brow disappearing underneath hair line as he looked like his old friends in amazement. “And you guys are.. what? Room mates?”

Eddie avoided looking at Richie as he answered. “Yeah, uh… room mates. Something like that.”

Richie slammed his hands down onto the table. “Somebody else talk now!!!”

Ben startled, then cleared his throat. “I uh… I actually live in New York, too.” He said slowly. “I work for the Pennywise Architecture firm. I’m just an intern still, might as well be unpaid but it’s a first step to my dream job so I deal with it.”

“Okay, not to make things kind of weird…” Beverly scratched at the side of her face. “But I actually live in New York, too. My husband got a transfer last spring, better pay and all that fun stuff. I don’t work, but I sell commissions on my art and a little bit clothing design. I might do something with that, I haven’t decided just yet. I think Tom wants to start a family so I’m not really sure just now.”

Richie narrowed his eyes, but Eddie quickly caught across him. “A family is so worth it, Beverly. Trust me, you won’t regret it.”

Beverly smiled blandly, and the conversation slowed until the Bill cleared his throat. “Audra and I actually just bought an apartment in New York. She wuh-wants to do some wuh-work on Broadway and I can wruh-write anywhere, so. We haven’t moved in yet, because we were in Euh-Europe but we’re going straight there after the ruh-reuinon.”

“I…” Stan cleared his throat, a look of concern and discomfort on his face. “I’m actually engaged, Patty she’s… the most amazing person I’ve ever met. She’s still in school, trying to be a high school teacher. She’s… finishing her degree at NYU once the new semester starts. We’re moving out there in like a month from Atlanta.”

Every face turned to look at Mike, who sighed and rubbed at his face. “I applied to some museum job in New York on a whim earlier this year, but I actually got it. I’m not going to go, my dad needs me here and my job is fine but… I told my partner that I’ve turned it down but I actually haven’t yet. I don’t know why I didn’t, I guess part of it just felt wrong.”

“What was it we all used to say back then?” Beverly asked, shaking her head slightly. “When all those weird things happened that we couldn’t explain?”

Ben looked at her and smiled. “Soulmates for the centuries.”