#i gotta stop stalling on editing ... .

[lynxgirlpaws]

>do nothing all day >finally start editing >hear my voice >massive self hatred god I fujcking love this

[hellfire--cult]

Edit of Eddie: pitifulbaby

Chapters: Masterlist (Go here to see list of chapters, plotline and general warnings.)

Pairing: Eddie Munson x Fem!Reader

Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Non-Traditional Omegaverse, Slow burn, Modern!AU, Mechanic!Eddie

⚠️18+: sexual tension, drinking, characters are drunk, clubbing, flirting and pining, i won't spoil the content of the chapter

wc: 14.5K

A/N: It's been... months. I know this. I got into a real bad writer's block and I am not sure it is entirely gone, but I have finally finished this chapter after struggling. I don't like how it turned out, feeling like I was all over the place with the idea and no matter how many times i proofread I just cannot get it right, but I hope that for the next chapter I do better! I hope you enjoy it and I am so sorry for taking so long!

Anyways, Enjoy! ❤️ And don't forget to always support me by hitting the reblog button or leave a comment!

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CHAPTER 16

“Wayne…”

“It’s not that bad Eds, with the medication and all–”

“You don’t understand pops. This– Fuck Wayne… You can’t leave me like this, with this condition of mine I– I have no chance of a partner… I will be alone…” He couldn’t lose Wayne. He didn’t want to believe what he read in the doctor’s verdict after many tests done on the old man. 

The medication would only stall the end. There is no chance that lung cancer can be cured, and if there is any at all, it should have been caught before the spread… which did not happen in this case.

“Eddie, you don’t know that… And you don’t know if I will leave you son, don’t get rid of your old man just like that.” And Eddie could see Wayne’s eyes glistening with tears through the camera on his phone. He knows his uncle did not like these results either. He knows. Eddie could only think of the test results and knew how much money the chemotherapy sessions would cost. He knows that medication and hospital bills will go off the roof and Wayne’s retirement money is not going to cover it all up.

So Eddie has to make a decision. He needs to make money, lots of it, and his auto shop in the city is doing amazingly well. He needs to leave Wayne behind at Hawkins, even if it hurts him. He needs to take care of Wayne. His friends are here too, and Argyle was also planning to move here. He wanted to at least try to keep Wayne healthy. As long as he possibly can because with Wayne gone…

He would end up all alone.

He lets out a grunt as he secures the last lug nut of the center hub of a tire with his impact wrench. He turns it off and places it on the floor, rubbing the sweat off his forehead with the back of his hand. He looks at his watch and stands up, wiping his knee that he used for kneeling.

“Gareth, did you finish the–”

“Yes, I fucking did, and it was a bitch, and I don’t ever want you to put me through that again.” The younger man whined as he tried to scrub off the excess of grease that was on his hands. Eddie winced at the sharp tone of his voice, but Gareth needed to learn how to do it, sooner or later.

It’s not an everyday occurrence to fix someone’s motor. A point where it’s not working but not broken enough for replacement. Breaking it apart, bit by bit in order to find the problem of it all and then putting it back together. It’s extensive, and it hurts your brain but someone’s gotta do it, and Eddie had already done it several times-

“I will put you through it whenever I want. Remember that you take thirty percent of what this person pays for fixing it. It’s not a cheap fix, maybe you can finally go to Hawaii.” Eddie chuckles and Jeff snorts in the background as he stops inspecting the motor of a car in order to laugh. Gareth scrunches his nose at both of his friends.

“It’s not wrong for me to want to be on a nice beach, drinking a coconut and then splashing on Caribbean water later on! Maybe even have a nice cute Hawaiian girl dancing next to a palm tree.” Gareth sighed dreamily while Eddie and Jeff turned slowly towards each other and let out a very ugly laugh. 

“Okay, um, nice imagination there Gar.” Jeff chuckled as he went back to checking his own car and Gareth simply huffed, puffing his chest out.

“You’ll see the pictures and you’ll envy me.” And he pushed by Eddie, walking towards the large sink that’s at the back where the toolboxes are. Eddie has a smile on his face as he then shakes his head and hunches over to see Gareth’s work on the engine. He inspects the bolts’ placing, if the vents were positioned correctly and–

“Boss, she’s back.” Jeff sings with a wiggle of eyebrows and Eddie raises one of his at him and then turns his head to see a woman, arms crossed over her chest, office attire on, short black skirt, black blazer with a baby pink blouse peeking from the V cut.

Compared to Eddie, who was wearing a white wife-beater and some overalls covered in grease, one strap down, and a messy bun on his head to keep the hair out of his face, and probably more oil. His eyes scanned the woman again, from head to toe, and he felt a little bit excited about seeing her.

“My favorite customer.” Eddie smiles as you tap your foot on the floor, wearing your low heels that are formal yet somehow modern.

“I swear to god Eddie, I am cursed. I am losing my patience with my car.” You whined out which only made him roll his eyes. For the past two months you and he had become friends, your car had to go into his shop many times because one week was the oil tank coming off and the next it was your radio malfunctioning, and Eddie had told you, time and time again–

“Your car is shit sweetheart.” You only gasped at his words and shook your head.

“No, it is not! It’s a little old, yes, but– It still runs.” You said, proudly so, sticking your nose up which only made Eddie squint at you.

“Mhm… and what happened to it now?” He asked with his arms crossed over his chest and his eyes followed yours, and he noticed it. He saw how your eyes flickered to his biceps, how they puffed thanks to the press. He held back a smirk as your eyes found his again, your posture becoming straight once more.

“Well, I feel the brake pedal a little bit hard to press. It started this morning.” He tilted his head in confusion at that because he had looked over your brakes, and they looked fine, almost the best thing in your whole car. His eyebrows were furrowed together as he scratched the back of his neck in thought.

“Alright. Let’s go see.” And you gave him a nod before walking out from the open garage door. Eddie looked to his side as he followed right behind you and Jeff only winked at him before proceeding with his own car. Eddie rolled his eyes but then, when they centered back, they fell on your behind.

The skirt hugged you tightly, and it was the right shade of black for you. It wasn’t too short nor past your knees. It was a simple office attire, something that shouldn’t get him going the way it is. And it has been happening more and more as time went on. Ever since that stupid night where he got to taste you, even if briefly, it was enough for him to admit the attraction he had for you.

He had been trying to push that urge away. You are a friend, you two share the same group of people, and it would be stupid to enter into a physical relationship with you… But fuck if he didn’t want to turn you around, get your ass on top of the hood of your car and raise your skirt far enough that you would reveal yourself to him.

He wanted to wreck you, ravish every single part of you and his curiosity of how you are in bed sometimes gets the best of him. The whole year filled of pent up anger and frustration over you didn’t exactly leave. Even if you were at the top of his hit list before, you were also this forbidden fruit for him.

He had looked at you many times when he was supposed to despise you in body and soul. He hated himself when he caught his eyes staring at your cleavage more times than they should. Your body as it moved when you went clubbing with the whole group. Your lips against another person’s and how they moved gracefully against them.

And now, he tasted them. The softness, the flavor… and fuck he wanted more of that. It was greedy, he knew that, and he would have stopped these thoughts and these urges…

If it weren’t for the fact that he knew, he absolutely knew, you felt it too.

Ever since you broke up with Billy, the physical touches became more frequent, tentative, testing, and only just barely. A graze of fingers, a press on the shoulder, a bump, a shove. He could feel your eyes, he could feel you scanning him from head to toe whenever you all got together. 

He noticed how unsatisfied you were, whenever you complained about the hookups you had been having lately. He wondered if you were ever fully satisfied with Billy, but maybe your feelings made you feel like you were.

And he wanted to show you just how good he could make you feel. He wanted to show you what his body could do, what his urges could impulse him to do, and what his tongue could provoke. He wanted to brand himself in your brain and on your skin, mark himself in your memory. 

He wondered now if he could make a dent in your hood from how hard he would pound–

“Are you listening to me?”

Your voice took him away from his thoughts, and he nodded at you as he wiped his hands with the rag he had in his back pocket. You had turned around, at some point, and to be completely honest, the need of tainting you didn’t leave him one bit as he saw your scrunched-up face.

“Let me check the pedal, first and foremost.” With that, he rounded your car that you parked at the front of his shop, and he opened the driver’s seat. The smell of your perfume filled his nostrils and he took a deep breath in and leaned down, bending over to reach the brake pedal and press on it. 

Only for his hand to stop in the middle of it as a laugh exploded out of him.

“What? Why are you laughing!?” You asked, confused and stunned as he straightened up and held his hand up that now held something, your face flushing in embarrassment as you choked on your words.

“Isn’t this fucking adorable.” In his hand was a small hand-sized plushie, a Squishmallow to be exact, and it was a little bat. He squeezed it a few times and he assumed it was kind of like a stress ball for you. 

“I– It must have… fallen from my purse…” You wanted the earth to swallow you whole, Eddie could sense it, so he chuckled and squeezed it hard.

“I might keep him as payment. Matches my tattoo.” And he noticed your eyes drifting to his right arm and then back at the plushie, rushing over to him to try to snatch it away, only for Eddie to be quicker and move his hand all the way up. You frowned at him, a challenge in your eyes.

“You know what I will do if you don’t give it back.” And oh he knew. He is expecting it. He yearns to feel your body against his like that time with the Pringles can. The way you clawed up on his body, your nails digging into his shoulder as your chest was almost at his eye level when you tried to reach for the can. 

“You cannot do that now, your ass will show.” He only smirked at you as your mouth opened and closed, like a fish, and you looked at the bat plushie in his hand. “You didn’t have to make an excuse in order to see me, Peach.”

You scoffed at him and shook your head as embarrassment washed over you. He could easily keep pushing your buttons, but even he knows about work schedules. Begrudgingly, he handed over the small plushie to you and you snagged it out of his hand in a second with a glare in your eyes.

“I didn’t. You and I both know that.” You turned around to face your driver’s door, putting the plushie inside your bag again as you fixed things around and Eddie couldn’t contain himself. He wanted to have a smell of your perfume coming off from you. He leaned close, breath at the back of your neck and his voice three tones lower, sending shivers and electricity down your spine.

“Do we now?” He saw your shoulders tense slightly and he wished he could see your face. More confirmations that this thing was not one sided. He took a breath in and your scent is floral today, sort of, matching the air around you, the incoming spring. 

What he didn’t expect you to do was to turn around with a small smirk on your face, a cocky one and it made his eyebrow go up in question. Your eyes stayed on his as he tilted his head to urge you to talk.

“Sounds like you were the one who missed me, Munson.” 

And that really sent him close to the edge. He wanted to shut that pretty mouth of yours up. He wanted nonsense to come out of your lips. He wanted his name to be said, to be yelled as you unravel under his touch. Drooling so much that you wouldn’t be able to formulate words. 

“Cocky, aren’t you Peach?” You rolled your eyes at him, those pretty eyes he wants to see rolling to the back of your head. 

“But you are not denying it.” 

And oh you are playing a very dangerous game here because–

“Eddie, I’m sorry to interrupt your flirting session–” Gareth interrupted and Eddie almost growled at his friends as you stuttered, looking at his friend.

“Gareth– It’s not–”

“Sure, whatever you two say. Eddie, Mr. Gomez called. Said he wants to book a service for his collectible.” And Eddie groaned at that, pinching the bridge of his nose with his fingers. He was the only one in the shop who had enough training and experience to work with delicate cars. He is the only one that can take this kind of tedious and slow job.

“Right.” He sighed in defeat as he slowly turned to look back at you, his arms crossed over his chest. “That’ll be a hundred bucks.”

Your mouth fell open as your hand raised and swatted his shoulder, finally letting out a held-in chuckle from his throat, prompting you to smile as well. The relationship was different, yet it wasn’t. There’s just this back and forth between the two of you, more than simple bantering, more than simply getting on each other’s nerves. 

And he takes full responsibility for it, the question is… do you?

“No. You even tried to kidnap Carlisle.” Eddie frowned at the name, not understanding what you meant for a second, to then snort out, his eyebrows raising up in surprise as he looked at you.

“You named the plushie Carlisle? Are you serious?” You gave him an offended look and raised your nose at him. He wanted to crack up, but he held it in, you looked way too adorable to say anything about it.

“You named your Mustang She-ra.” He groaned and rolled his eyes, hating the day he told you about how he always puts a name on his most precious things. His electric guitar is called Gilda, while his van is called Kratos. 

“At least she is known, I don’t know where you got a name like Carlisle–”

“Twilight.” And Eddie could only hold it in for one more second before snorting and looking away from you, pressing his fist to his mouth. You only rolled your eyes at him and gave him a small shove on his arm which only prompted him to keep chuckling. 

“Of course it’s Twilight.” He only comments as he turns to look at you again. You flipped him off as you got into the driver’s seat and slammed the door shut. He smirked as he crossed his arms over his chest. “No payment?”

“You want a kiss or something Munson?” He knows it’s a joke, he knows it is but he also feels and hears the suggestion, the small and indirect invitation. He only smirks as he bends forward, his crossed forearms coming to a rest on the rolled down window as his face moves close to yours. 

Your eyes express confusion, but your body movement betrays you as you don’t move away from him, not even an inch. His grin is visible and his gaze holds fire and want as he quickly looks over your lips and then back at your eyes.

“Can’t get enough?” His voice was low, and you felt your whole body grow goosebumps at it and how intensely he looked at you. It was just one push and your lips would touch his, you could taste him again, and even more than before… but you can’t. You both can’t.

So you pushed him off on his shoulder, making him chuckle and stumble away from your driver’s window, still looking down at you. You cleared your throat as you started your car again and fixed the rear-view mirror. Your eyes lit up and looked at him once more.

“Oh, today we’re doing the pre-game at my apartment, so just bring whatever you wanna drink Munson.” His eyes widened slightly at that but still nodded at your instruction. It’s been a while since the group went out clubbing, and it would be the first time he and you would also go out on good terms. 

Before, when clubbing, you two stayed as far away as one could, the only incident where he got close being the one where a guy didn’t understand the word ‘No’. Now there’s no need for that separation, for that space… Would you two dance together? Hopefully not… because you don’t trust yourself not rubbing your body seductively against his. And he doesn’t trust himself in not grabbing your hips to pull you flush against him.

‘Get yourself together.’ You repeat in your head to yourself. Eddie is a friend. Just that and nothing more. He can’t be something more. It’ll ruin it. Curiosity be damned.

“Alright, we’re going to Scorpion, right?” You nodded at the name of the club, and he gave a hum of approval and tapped on the hood of your car to get you going. “Go before you are late to an important meeting or something, Miss Executive.” 

“I do my job well, what can I say.” Your voice is confident when saying that and Eddie has no power in teasing you about it. He liked it when you were sure of something, much more when it came to yourself. “See you later Eds.” 

“See you later Peach.” You gave him one small smile before you got out of his parking and drove off. He let a loud sigh escape his lips as he looked towards the sky, not noticing he was holding one to begin with.

How the fuck is he going to survive you tonight?

He remembers the outfits you wore when going out, and he had stared more than once in a single night. He hated you more than he did at the time for catching his eye. The dislike he felt for you gave him the stop sign to not flirt with you, but now– the only stop sign there is, is doubt.

He is perceptive, been so since a teenager, but you feel like a challenge. He never once doubted when approaching a woman to take home for the night, never had a long-term lover either, but you are different. Everything is different. 

Even if you two have the same attraction and same need, how can he be certain that it won’t be weird afterwards? How can he be certain that it won’t destroy the group you two finally can enjoy together and in peace? Is he ready to sacrifice that in order to have a piece of you? 

Now let’s say you two do end up having sex and continue doing so… what happens when one of you two decides to end it? Go for an actual relationship? How are you two going to face one another once that whole sex-buddy thing wilters into nothing? He doesn’t even know himself. He had always been confident but– this situation was new.

You’re no stranger. And that makes everything much more harder than before. 

“Eddie! Mr. Gomez!” He can hear Gareth screaming from inside again and he turns with a groan and a frown on his face. 

“I am going! Fucking christ!”

Those kinds of thoughts might need to be left aside for now.

—--------------------------------

You looked in the mirror to look at yourself one more time. You felt your heart race slightly from time to time and your belly turning as well, as if you had butterflies from nervousness and anticipation blooming inside. 

And you know why. And you hate the fact that you know why.

You had cursed at yourself when you promised you wouldn’t shave and yet you still grabbed the razor that was sitting on the corner of your bathtub. You said you wouldn’t do a lot of make up to impress, yet you did a full face. You also said you were going to wear something comfortable tonight, not wanting anything but to have fun with your friends.

And now you had some high-rise oxford pants with a short crop top that had long bell sleeves, and high heels on your feet. Pants you often used to show off your ass when dancing. You wanted to literally punch yourself because you know who you want to show off to. 

Why would you do this? To get some reaction from him? You already made up your mind that nothing was going to happen between the two of you. It cannot happen. The circle would break if you do… but maybe you end up not liking it and he feels the same way and you two end up as friends only?

That would be the best outcome. But what if you do like it and he doesn’t? That would make you feel horrible, and you know it because you want him to like it. To like you. To worship your body. You want him to remember you and even consider you his best. Maybe it is to show him what he has been missing for so long if he hadn’t been a douche from the start. Maybe it is because you just have an ego problem.

Either way,  Eddie has made his way into your brain almost every day… and even in your dreams.

The first time you dreamt of him was after the quick peck you gave him back at his house. You went to sleep, a little bit of a carousel going on in your head thanks to the alcohol you drank that night, but even the spins didn’t stop your mind from imagining things. 

You remember it, vividly so. He was at the end of your bed, standing and looking down at you. You were naked and felt as if you were burning all over, goosebumps forming in need of touch. His touch. 

He was shirtless, and you could imagine it perfectly thanks to all those mirror stories he posted on Instagram. You could remember every tattoo he had. His chest, his neck, his arms… You remembered them all, even the smaller ones, and you wished you knew the ones on his back if he had any.

He leaned down, planting a kiss on your collarbone first, and you could feel the stubble on his face tickle you, send shivers down every skin cell of your body, goosebumps worsening. His hands, his big ringed hands that also were filled with ink, trailed your sides, exploring you and taking in every dent, curve, and chuckling at the feel of that chicken skin he provoked on you. 

The chuckle sounded too real, so low that you truly believed he infiltrated your dream with a superpower he hid from all of you. Had he engrained himself in your brain so badly that you didn’t miss a single detail? You hadn’t noticed how much you’ve been wanting him till that night, and your body and brain let you know of that fact.

‘You won’t be able to fuck someone else ever again after me. Trust me on that Peach.’ That’s what he said before trailing his lips down your body, making you arch your back as his teeth often nibbled at different parts of your skin. You wanted those nibbles to turn into bites, teeth marking you, making you bleed, digging into the cells of your body until you were consumed by him. 

He was reaching that part of you that ached for touch, for friction, for satisfaction. That part of you that can try to make the fire inside you diminish if touched or worsen it, but you wanted to find out. His lips kissed your hips, hands gliding downwards as you looked down at him only to see him looking back with a grin on his face.

You let out a moan as you parted your legs for him to slot better in between them, his teeth biting a little harder at the skin on your hip in approval. You saw him slowly lay down on his belly, his smile never leaving his face as you felt a breeze on your wet center. It felt too real, too vivid, too lucid. You felt the coldness of it, the air, the pleasure around your clit thanks to it. 

But your body betrayed you that night and you jolted awake when your phone loudly rang, and the first thing you felt was the wetness between your legs. For Eddie. For Eddie Munson. You were wet for your past enemy, who became your friend, and now–

You didn’t know if you wanted to kill the person on the other side of the phone or thank them for stopping you from imagining stuff like that. It was just a wet dream you had and a friend was the protagonist. Those things happen, they’re normal… The problem was that the normal thing would be to feel weird and disgusted by it, but you felt the complete opposite. 

You wanted the dream to continue. You wanted that dream to go on and dream of what it would feel like to have his tongue on you and inside of you. You wanted to know if your imagination was kind enough to let you feel it entirely, just like everything else. But it cannot happen. You should have been glad it stopped where it did.

But the dreams didn’t stop, and sometimes you found yourself daydreaming in your office about them again, making you straighten up or jolt whenever you caught yourself doing so. You couldn’t let your body indulge in it, and much less your mind. 

It was no use. He just kept appearing in your instagram stories, and your eyes always looked for him in every room whenever you knew he was near or was going to be present. You are always eager to see him and it drives you mad. He drives you mad. And you hate him so much for making you realize–

That you want to ride him until he sees the earth from the moon or beyond.

Back in the present, you clench your eyes tightly so that you could forget those images, or how he leaned over today and his breath hit your face as well as his stupid cologne. It was leathery today, but also the hint of car oil lingered on him, which only made your stomach turn harder. 

He knew what he was doing. You knew what he was doing. Is he brave enough and has the guts you don’t have to take the risk? Does he have the same lingering thoughts you do? The what ifs? The consequences of it happening? If he didn’t he would have done something already… right?

You can’t take that step yourself, afraid of ruining it all. You finally can be at peace in your circle of friends, you repeat this to yourself every time you think about him as more than just a friend. When you think about his naked body against yours. When you think of how he would feel inside of you.

Would he be able to satisfy you? Fill you?

You doubt it. But, what if–

You jump in your place as a loud ring snaps you out of your thoughts. Your intercom goes off as it yells at you that your friends have arrived. You took one last look at yourself and nodded as you promised that this thing you were doing wasn’t for Eddie. It’s just a passing attraction. Something that will die down soon if not indulged. 

You sprayed one last bit of perfume before heading out of your room and into the living room area. You looked at the screen to see Robin smiling close to the camera with Steve and Jonathan behind her, waving at you. You shook your head at the goofiness of your friend and pressed the button to let them in, hearing the buzz through the speaker. They walked in and you unlocked your front door for them to just walk in.

You could feel your stomach turning a bit still, wondering if he would be in time, or if he was coming at all, and… the dread of seeing him with someone tonight. You didn’t think of that. Oh god, you didn’t think of– Why are you worrying? Isn’t it best if he goes with someone else tonight? Maybe if you see him with another woman, these desires will vanish… but what if it does the complete opposite?

What if you wish to be her? But he is nothing to you, just a friend, that’s it… You shouldn’t care if he goes with someone else, you really shouldn’t but why do you feel like you would be sort of hurt about it? Why do you feel like you are losing? 

What did Eddie Munson do for your brain to be this mushed because of him?

You couldn’t think too much of it because Robin walked in, holding a bag as if in victory, letting you know she brought vodka for tonight. You winced towards Steve as he walked in through the door, already sighing at the night ahead of him as designated driver for her and Jonathan. Argyle was the designated driver for Nancy, Eddie and you. 

“I swear Robin… I know it’s been a while since we’ve gone out but–” Steve started only to receive a glare from your best friend as Jonathan closed the door behind him.

“It’s been months! Plus, we can finally pregame all together!” And you were excited for it too. The pregames before being Eddie’s friend were a little tense, always on edge of saying the wrong thing in front of one another and making the night a bitter one.

Now another type of edge is nestled within you. Between you two. But it’s as if you cannot control yourself when around him. You always give a remark, a word, or a sentence with a double meaning, or you always one-up him in his closeness. If he brushes his thumb against yours, you brush your five fingers at the top of his hand. 

If he makes a joke with a flirty tone, you follow it through… like today, asking him if he wanted to kiss you again. He was the one who continued it, getting close to you, testing you, not even in a teasing manner. You know it’s not one-sided. This thing that is going on is affecting the two of you, and it’s a matter of never doing anything about it or… waiting for who breaks first.

“Chill Robin, it’s going to be a calm night.” Is what you say but do you truly believe it will be? The twisting in your stomach came again so you walked towards your kitchen to get some beers out as the rest walked in, ready to prepare the glasses, snacks, and drinks. You immediately popped open a can and took a chug out of it, wanting to quench whatever was inside your stomach.

“Is it?” Jonathan asked with a chuckle, looking at how you immediately started drinking. You glanced at him and gave him an innocent smile, receiving a roll of the eyes back as he leaned over the island counter to grab a beer himself. 

“Ugh…” Steve groaned as he looked at the beer, crossing his arms over his chest. “This is certainly not fair.”

“I drove us home last time. I held myself back because I knew you wouldn’t.” Jonathan chuckled and his boyfriend only glared at him in response, opening his mouth to say something to him only for the ringing to start again.

Goosebumps raided your skin from neck to toes. You moved a little too quickly as you walked out of the kitchen to rush to the intercom, looking at the screen. You felt your stomach twist when you saw him putting a cigarette out with a stomp as Argyle talked to him. Nancy was only shaking her head as she looked into the camera and waved. 

You bit your lip as you pressed the button, taking a deep breath in as it buzzed. Eddie looked up into the camera before walking in and he smirked, flipping his middle finger up towards you and that made the tension in your stomach loosen a bit. A chuckle escaped you as you shook your head at his antics. 

You can do this. If you keep this friendly banter like you always do it will be an easy task. It should be. You took a swig of your beer as you looked at the door and then back at the kitchen. 

You have to appear uninterested because if you do, you will believe it. You have to believe it. Nothing can happen between the two of you, and it should be clear that it shouldn’t because your friends are in the kitchen, and more are coming up. This wouldn’t have happened months ago. Eddie entering your home wouldn’t have happened, ever. 

You should appreciate what you have and stop asking for more. Stop desiring for more. Stop dreaming for more. It’s enough as it is, what you two have is enough. He’s been a great friend to you, letting you vent, lending you a shoulder, making you laugh, and it should be enough…

But that stupid fucking kiss always comes back.

The door opened making your head turn to see Argyle walking in first and immediately walking towards you to give you a kiss on the cheek as a greeting. You rolled your eyes as you smelled the weed on him already.

“Hello hello, my dudette.” He smiles at you as he looks behind him, making your eyes follow his gaze. Your breath catches in your throat as you see Nancy walking in, followed by Eddie who is holding a six-pack with one hand, the other stuck into the pocket of his denim jacket. Black shirt hugging his torso, tightly, the tattoos poking out from the small V-neck it has.

Your eyes drifted lower to see his signature dark pants with a few rips here and there, and then you went upwards again to see him in his– Your eyes widened when you just now realized he had his hair down. Your heart seemed to stop as you held your breath in because you only saw his hair down in those half-naked pictures he took of himself in front of his bathroom mirror. 

And fuck– fuck–

“For fuck sake Nancy, told you you tightened it too much.” Eddie groaned out and you had to look away, you had to. But you couldn’t. He had you in a trance as Nancy rolled her eyes at him.

“Not my fault your hair is frizzy and untamed today!” You tried to control your own breathing a bit. He definitely caught you off guard with this one. You fucking swore his hair was tied up downstairs when you saw him on the intercom screen. 

You snapped out of it by Steve yelling at Robin to stop. You sighed in relief as your eyes finally left his figure, landing on the kitchen’s open door, and seeing Steve taking the bottle out of Robin’s claws. You smiled knowing that she must have poured too much vodka on her drink, never knowing how to measure correctly.

“Oh the rest is here, Nance you’re gettin' lucky tonight!” Argyle yelled, not realizing just how loud his voice was. You snorted and looked away for Nancy to not see you laughing, covering your mouth with your free hand.

Eddie chuckled seeing Nancy’s reaction, her face beet red, but your snort made his gaze turn towards you and– God fucking damnit. You’re not playing fair. You really aren’t. He felt the sharp intake of breath that entered his lungs as he scanned your body, slowly, taking every inch of you and your outfit.

He knew it was going to be a hard night for him if he was going to hold back, but he never thought he was gonna go to war. 

His hungry eyes scanned your figure, your neck, your shoulders, down your body, taking in every fucking detail he could. Your breasts, your hips, your thighs, your inner thighs… He was desperate to taste you, to try you, to have you. 

“Don’t laugh!” Nancy’s yell made him snap his head back to his best friend as she continued talking, “Eddie needs a ponytail.”

The man mentioned only rolled his eyes, landing on yours again. You were already looking at him, and he noticed the little gleam behind them thanks to your whole facial expression, your body language.

The way he noticed how your breath picked up, your chest moving a little more elaborate than a normal pace, or how your eyebrows were sort of tense. Your eyes were open, yet he noticed how your top lids were slightly dropped. Your hands were gripping the beer can, tightly, and your legs were crossed while standing. 

He could almost smell you from across the room.

“Here Nance, take these to the kitchen while Peach gets something to tame all this.” Eddie motioned to his hair and Argyle only laughed as Nance grabbed the six-pack from Eddie’s hand and walked into the kitchen.

“Can’t give you any tips my dude, my hair ain’t the same form as yours.” Argyle says before following behind Nancy. Your eyes followed them and then went back to Eddie who was already looking at you with a smirk on his lips.

“Can you tame it?” 

And that question shouldn’t have made your entire insides turn. It shouldn’t mean anything but him talking about his hair, but you know it has a second meaning. You know it. He knows you know it and that’s why he does it. 

So you always play along. Because you know it affects him as much as it affects you.

“I bet I can.” Your voice was low, eyes staying on his as you talked. His head tilted slightly in amusement, the tip of his fingertips itching to reach towards you, show you exactly just how untameable he was. 

“Would like to see you try Peach.” And he took a few steps towards you, slow, boots hitting against the wooden floor, loud steps that matched the volume of your own heartbeat. He reached out and grabbed the can out of your hands and took a swig out of it. He then put it back in front of you, waiting for you to take it as his eyes held a challenging gleam, as if this was another test.

You knew he was playing cat and mouse with you, but you didn’t know who was who. Were you the mouse? Were you the cat?... No, you weren’t mousy anymore. You two were the hunters, but neither dared to pull the trigger to get the prey.

But you weren’t going to let this fucker get away with doing these kind of things so he would make you drool over him, to make you look desperate for him. Your body though… your body wants to see him squirm.

You grabbed onto the can and slowly brought it up to your lips, your eyes focused on the lid as you looked at the small drop of beer that was there, where his lips were just mere seconds ago. Your tongue darted out, and you looked back up at him before licking the lid clean from the beer.

His smirk dropped, his cockiness gone, as all that’s left was fire. A fire that was spreading rapidly and you were holding onto the large folding fan, intentionally waving it with a smile on your face. You fucking–

“Alright, I’ll find something in my room.” You talked and took a full on sip of your beer before turning around and walking towards your room. Eddie’s eyes immediately fell on your ass, as you swayed it side to side and he only scoffed at the situation, at himself. 

The idea of not having you so easily is what made you more tempting, and it made him even more desperate to get you. He wonders if one fuck would cut it. If one fuck is all he needs for his curiosity to be over with you. If one fuck is enough to satiate this need to completely destroy you, ruin you, and make you lose your goddamn mind.

He doubts it.

He follows you across the living room and then goes into your bedroom. He takes a look around and now, enclosed in a space with you, in a space that is only yours made your perfume, your scent, grow tenfold. It almost makes him dizzy and fold over from how sweet, yet inviting it was. He wanted to press his nose in the crook of your neck and breathe you in, let you engrave yourself in one of his senses. 

“Tidy.” Is the only thing that comes out of his mouth as you walk towards your vanity to open one of your drawers. You felt your heart beating in your chest as your eyes drifted to the mirror to look at your queen-sized bed and your imagination started being evil with you and your body.

Flashes of him pinning you against your bed came in a rush, like a camera shutter, picture through picture. The positions change in every single one. You gulped as you felt your center throb in need, so you straightened up and clenched your legs together, looking back down into the drawer.

If you had looked at him for just one second there, you would have noticed how he was now looking at you. His eyes ablaze, breathing growing elaborate as his nostrils flared… 

“Well, of course, I had guests coming.” You finally grab a simple black hairband and close your drawer to then turn to him, ready to hand it over. “Here you go.”

A boyish smile broke on his lips as he walked over to the vanity’s chair to pull it out and sit on it, facing the mirror.

“You said you could tame it. Prove it.” You were stunned as you looked at him on the mirror. He wants you to do his hair? You cleared your throat as you got behind him and he straightened up as his eyes followed you, as if they had daggers in them just piercing you through.

“I don’t want to hear pain complaints, Munson.” He only chuckles at you, his smile making the butterflies in your stomach multiply for a split second.

“Oh, don’t worry about that.” And you didn’t catch the ulterior meaning of that. Your hands went towards his hair, touching it for the first time. You started brushing it a little bit with your fingers, your nails scratching his scalp a few times, sending shivers through his whole body as you kept going.

“I’m not gonna use a brush, it will just make the frizz worse Eds.” You take the time to comment as you feel the static on his hair. He sighs, nodding at your response.

“I know. I couldn’t find my comb today, so Nance brushed it out.” You groaned at the response, your eyes furrowed in a confused frown.

“Nance has curls, she should know that you don’t brush them.” He lets out a snort at your response, and you are glad that even if you feel that attraction towards him, there’s no awkwardness between the two of you. It calms you down, knowing that if nothing happens, because nothing will, your friendship will still be there.

“Right? And then she blamed me for breaking her hairband!” He complained, making you giggle as you examined his hair. Your tongue stuck out in thought as you grabbed hair from his sides and you pulled them back to hold them together. You looked at him through the mirror and you held your breath as he tilted his head to the side, examining the new look.

You didn’t think a half ponytail would make a difference on his face but– fuck it fits him. You’ve never seen him with one before, and now you hate yourself for being the one who discovered this new look. The butterflies returned, and you shifted on your legs as your core throbbed once. 

“Um… do you like it?” You asked, trying not to sound strained as if you weren’t about to choke on your own drool. “I think that a bun is going to be untameable in a room full of sweat.”

He only chuckles at your thoughts and doesn’t miss the way you gulp or shift in your place as you look at him. Do you really think he doesn’t notice? Do you really believe that he is not looking at your every move?

“It’s different but– Can’t say I dislike it. It’ll do for tonight.” You nod and let go of the hair. You are now more precise in the amount of hair you are grabbing, combing it with your fingers before pulling it back. You want to mess with him as you see him close his eyes, enjoying the moment. You bite your lip, smirking, and you pull hard on his hair, making his head reel back.

“Oops– sorry–” But your voice is cut off as a groan, a growl to be precise vibrates in his throat, his adam’s apple going up and down, and you hear him take a sharp breath through his nose. His jaw clenches as his eyes open and– 

“I dare you to do that again, Peach.” 

Your whole body burns. The way he was looking at you is just– it was strong, threatening but not in a bad way. Not in a murderous way. It was something else… something that gave you the feeling that if you followed through and pulled his hair back again, the thin line that was separating ‘Friendship’ and ‘something else’ was going to break.

You want to pull it back. You want to. You want to see what he would do if you played the brat. You want to know what he would say. You want to test it, to try it, to taste it. Taste him. 

But you let go just a bit as you nod, taking a deep breath in and looking back down at the hair, trying to not let him see how flustered you got, how nervous you feel.

“Sensitive.” Is what you managed to reply with, trying to keep the act that it was just a playful act and that it didn’t faze you. Trying to keep the act that you are not fucking horny for the man that is sitting in your room. Trying to keep the act that you do not want him to push you onto the bed and take you like a fucking animal.

Eddie’s body is a furnace. He wonders how much he can push you to the edge until you absolutely break. Until you are begging for him, until you grab him by the shirt to kiss him senseless, for him to experience a true kiss with you. What the fuck did you do to him? He has to pull himself together. Even if he is willing to take the chance and make a move, it doesn’t mean you are willing to take that same risk.

He understands you and respects you above all. If it happens, it happens, but it would never be without your consent. But he is not reading the signs wrong. He is reading them correctly and very attentively. 

Right now you could have followed his lead, but you didn’t, so he will back off… for now.

“No, it took me a while to grow all this amazing hair. I won’t let you yank it and destroy it.” His tone became playful once more as you tied the bun behind his head. He smiled again towards you and you returned it, a little forced. He wants to smirk knowing that he made you a little nervous, not in an uncomfortable way.

“You’re a fucking idiot.” Your hands finally leave his hair and he looks into the mirror and turns his face a couple of times, a raised eyebrow in exaggeration that makes you roll your eyes. 

“Acceptable.” You scoffed at his simple response and he chuckled, getting up from the chair and towering over you once again. He turned to look at you, his eyes finding yours as your bodies stood a little too close to one another. You didn’t know if you were breathing correctly or not at this point. “Thanks Peach.”

“N-No problem.” Fuck, you stuttered. “Anyways, let’s go back with the others before they think we killed each other.”

“I mean, we could have also fucked, but yeah, we should go before they drink everything.” And just like that, as if he hadn’t said the most shocking thing, he walked out of your room, leaving you completely frozen. You were staring at the door, mouth slightly open, eyes completely still in position as your blood began circulating again.

Your body was on fire, your mind a mess, mixing with his scent and with his words, making matters worse for you. You felt your heart beating in your chest as little butterflies flew all about. 

You have to keep your head centered, your mind needs to recollect itself because you cannot show this in front of your friends. And that made you look at yourself in the mirror, face relaxing a bit as your shoulders slump down a bit. Friends. Yeah. You need to keep yourself under control, you are not an animal. You can fight this urge, you had before in your life with other people, you surely can now.

He is a friend. This crush, this attraction, will pass if not indulged.

You managed to take a deep breath before walking out of your room, grabbing your beer from the vanity, and seeing your friends having moved their endeavors from the kitchen into your living room. Your eyes fall on Eddie immediately as he sits down on your couch next to Steve, beer in hand and listening to his best friend.

“Now that’s a new hairstyle.” You heard the freckled man comment as you walked towards the chairs they grabbed from your dining table, putting them around the coffee table where all the drinks and snacks were placed. You sat down next to Robin who was preparing Nancy her drink, making you wince at the amount of rum she was pouring in.

“Robs, maybe let others manage the drinks?” You commented, making your friend glare at you, putting the bottle down.

“Why? You got something to say about my bartending abilities?” And Nancy only winced next to her, taking the glass Robin was preparing and pouring half of the rum into an empty cup. Robin’s mouth fell agape as she looked at her girlfriend.

“You do make them pretty strong baby.” You noticed Robin’s blush and you held in a smile as you looked to your front, seeing Eddie looking at the same thing, his eyes clashing with yours with a smile on his face.

You were both happy your two friends finally made it official, but it was still pretty funny to see Robin blush after acting tough and dominating in the flirting stance of the relationship. It’s a funny dynamic to watch. Robin huffed and helped Nancy fill the rest of the glasses with coke as you took a sip of your beer.

“So, this bouncer is a regular at Jonny’s?” Eddie asked as he looked at Steve and then back at Jonathan and the latter nodded as he drank a bit of his drink.

“Yeah, he’s gonna let us go in for free, even give us two free drinks and VIP section.” At his words, Steve frowned.

“You sure he isn’t trying to come onto you? Does he know you are taken, my love?” Steve’s voice was syrupy, making you giggle into the can as you looked back and forth, but you had to be honest and say that… it did sound compromising on the other guy’s part. 

“Pretty sure, he is married, has two gorgeous kids even.” Jonathan smiled but the mention of kids only made your stomach curl slightly. You looked down at your can, not noticing the pair of brown eyes staring at you, gaze softening as he watched your body language. 

“That doesn’t mean he doesn’t want to suck your cock Jonathan.” Eddie says and that made you spit your drink into your can, followed by your laughter, making him smile while looking at you. “You know I’m fucking right!” and you could only nod at that.

“Y-Yeah! It– It doesn’t mean anything Jonathan, oh my god…” You coughed as you tried to stop your laughter, the comment catching you completely off guard. The rest of the group was laughing except for the couple that was just frowning, one in confusion and the other in anger.

“I– I swear it’s not, it’s just– He is a regular with his other friends…” You knew Jonathan was putting the puzzle together in his head while Steve only groaned exasperated, shaking his head at his boyfriend.

“We’re not going.” His voice was low as he took a sip of his beer and everyone, including yourself gasped and started complaining at him. Argyle even stood up, pointing a finger at him.

“The other guy already compromised, when he sees Jonathan with someone else, he can’t say ‘no, you cannot go in!’” He stated and you nodded wildly, looking at Steve with pleading eyes.

“If he does, his intentions would be obvious! He just won’t invite Jonathan again!” Eddie nodded at your statement and looked back at his best friend. There was a hidden intent in his mind to try to convince his friend. 

He wanted to watch you dance in that outfit.

“Yeah man, he already told Jonathan he would let him through.” And Steve only groaned in defeat, rolling his head exasperated. 

“Fine. But I will punch his face in if he tries anything at all and I hope I don’t see him in the bar either after this.” He takes a sip of his beer while Jonathan rolls his eyes, sitting on the floor next to Argyle once more. Everyone else let out a sigh of relief and the music played in the background. 

And after a few drinks, cans of beer, and a few little games–

“Okay no, I didn’t say that! I said–” You yelled with a slight slur as everyone else tried to hold in their laughter, Eddie chuckling as he shook his head.

“You literally said, HEAR ME OUT, when I sent you a video of Venom… of Venom, Peach!” You were laughing, your eyes slightly red as you sat next to Nancy in the backseat, Eddie sat in the passenger seat, and Argyle was driving, completely sober. Nancy was cracking up as she patted your shoulder a few times.

“You’re fucking right though!” She said to you and you turned to face her and nodded wildly with excitement in your eyes.

“Right!? It’s the tongue!” And you two could hear a groan of disgust from Eddie and Argyle at the front of the car. Eddie was buzzed as well, eyes glossy from laughing the whole drive to the club. He has been going at you from a past conversation you two had with your weirdest crushes. 

He thought his were weird… he was wrong.

“It’s– He can literally eat you alive in two bites!” Eddie yelled as he ran his hands over his face trying to stop laughing and Argyle only nodded his head, looking at Eddie for a second.

“Hot.” And Argyle’s response made the three intoxicated people in the car start laughing once more. When Eddie and you are together with your friends, the flirty bantering drops completely, and it’s moments like these that fill you with joy. It’s just when the two of you are alone that somehow the flirty remarks escape your mouth.

You don’t want those moments with your friends to be filled with awkwardness, or nervousness if something were to happen between Eddie and you. You might lose that forever, and not to mention losing Eddie as a friend. You doubt that friendships remain the same after having sex with each other. 

But the beer in your system tonight… it’s being your worst enemy at the moment.

After parking and getting together with the others, you all walked the block towards the club. You could hear the music thumping already, making your excitement grow as you all went forward to the VIP line that was forming outside. Eddie stood behind you as Jonathan stood in front of you all. 

His hand rested on your lower back as he guided you in front of him through the line so people wouldn’t bump into you, and you couldn’t even feel the chill of the night because of it. Not even after everyone got inside after Jonathan proved that the guy, the bouncer, was actually being friendly with him. The club felt humid, hot, and you still felt the lingering touch of Eddie’s fingers on the small part where your skin showed between your top and pants.

Your mind needed a distraction from it all, but when you turned and saw how the lights of the club hit his face just right, you felt your stomach do a complete turn, twisting into itself. He was smiling as Steve laughed about something to him while you all walked towards the bar. You had to get yourself together, this cannot happen, not at all. Your urges can be satisfied with someone else, or by yourself. 

But you weren’t the only one who couldn’t look away. Eddie noticed it. All the time. He knew that his mind, even if hazy, wasn't playing any tricks on him. He looked at how you leaned over the bar, giggling with Robin next to you and pointing to the card to see what you would order. His eyes scanned all over your body, slow, and uncontrollably so.

The alcohol is making his desire even worse than before and his rational mind is slipping away slowly, that little thread of doubt of making the next step disappear each second and song that passes. 

His eyes widen with Steve when he sees the bartender hand you a bucket full of ice with champagne and redbulls inside while Robin grabs various glasses. You turn with a smile on your face as you walk over to them again, Eddie crossing his arms as he scans you.

“Well, you gonna share?” He manages to speak loudly over the music as you smile up at him and shake your head.

“Not with you Munson!” You giggled at him as Nancy guided you all to an empty small table for you to put the bucket on. He laughed as Steve rolled his eyes, huffing again for not being able to drink at all as they walked to the table.

“Robin! Get your hands off the champagne bottle!” Eddie yelled as he snatched the bottle from Robin’s hands, causing the blonde to pout at him.

“Fuck off Eddie!” Suddenly, the table rattles as someone deposits another bucket filled with ice and beers. Steves turns his head to see Jonathan smiling widely.

“Invitation from the bouncer. His wife is the cashier of the bar!” Steve only rolled his eyes while everyone cheered for the free drinks. Eddie popped off the champagne easily as you jumped in excitement next to him. He chuckled as he began pouring the drink halfway into the glasses. You helped by pouring the redbulls in, filling them all up to the brim. Everyone except for Argyle and Steve grabbed glasses and clinked them together before starting to drink.

The buzz was good, minds becoming even more blurry and hazy than before, yet keeping the consciousness intact, except for Robin because she always poured too much alcohol in her glasses at the pregames. Steve was trying really hard to take Robin’s drinks away but she only avoided him, grabbing Nancy’s hand and yours with the other. You giggled as you tried to keep your drink steady in your hand as Robin pulled you both into the dancefloor. 

You laughed when Nancy and Robin sandwiched you in between them as they grind against your body, listening to SZA playing in the speakers, the lights blinding you slightly, making you a bit dizzy in a fun way. You took a sip of your glass as your hips moved from side to side, slowly, unaware of the brown eyes that looked at your every move from across the dancefloor.

Eddie chugged his champagne down, his eyes moving away from your body to try to think of something else, for someone to catch his eye and to occupy his mind but nothing worked. The spin in his head only made him turn his head towards you again. Jonathan was chuckling, pecking Steve on the mouth many times, trying to make his boyfriend laugh, and it seemed it worked. 

Eddie’s drunken mind couldn’t help but wander to more dangerous territory, a place where you are still not there, and Eddie is thankful for that. When he sees Nancy or Steve, he wonders if there is someone out there for him. He wonders if he even has a chance. He wonders if there is someone out there that won’t let him be alone for the rest of his life like he always thought he was going to end up as. 

But even his intoxicated mind sometimes connects dots, and he is stricken by the realization that… if he makes a move on you, what is going to happen later? What if it escalates into things he is not used to? What if he curses you with who he is? With what he is? Would you even want him if you knew half of what he was and is going through?

That only prompts him to grab another can of beer from Jonathan’s bucket. He opens it and starts chugging it, only to feel a presence by his side. When he looks down, his eyes clash with yours. You are smiling, and by how your eyes are half lidded, he knows you are drunk, just like he is. 

And fuck you look hot like this.

“Give me one?” You asked, innocently, your hips swaying slightly to the rhythm of the music still, and his eyes darted downwards to them before looking away and getting a can out of the bucket. He was about to hand it over to you, your hand reaching out to grab it, only for him to rip it away again, making you pout. “Hey!”

“Magic word?” He grinned at you, wiggling the can in his hand. Your friends were oblivious to you two, already used to the antics of bothering one another. Nancy and Robin were making out on the dancefloor, Jonathan was pulling Steve towards it while Argyle seemed to spot someone and disappear into the crowd. 

You stared at his hand and then back at him. The buzz made you bold, your worries slipping, your thoughts disappearing, making the impulsiveness take over. You wanted to mess with him. You wanted to tease him. You wanted to be mean, desired, try to make that thread that separates friendship to something else waver a bit. 

You took a step forward, your body sticking to his, and your eyes never left his in every movement. His eyes didn’t widen, but his breathing became elaborate as you raised yourself on your tippy toes in order to get closer to his face. You could smell the beer from his breath, the wooden cologne, the sweat, and it made your insides turn and melt in need. 

His eyes went back and forth between your eyes and lips, not knowing where to stay. He felt his belly burn and ache, twist as your perfume invaded his space, your body heat invaded his own, and all worries started to vanish again. All thoughts, all rationality were rendered stupid as he looked at your lips. 

“Please…?” It was soft, a whimper, a moan almost. Eddie’s brain short-circuited, not noticing his arm lowered as his eyes looked into yours. You were so close, and all he needed to do was wrap his arm around your frame and lean down, take your lips into his, kiss you stupid, senseless, make you yearn for more.

You were trying to keep a cool exterior, but inside you were in flames. Would it be so bad to have a taste? Would it really cause all the chaos your sober mind conjured up? Would it be so bad to kiss his lips again? To tangle your tongue with his? Take him properly? 

He tilted his head slightly at you, the music, the people, all just became muffled background noise. He could feel your chest moving up and down, your breathing turning quick. He didn’t even smirk, not a grin, as he lowered his head towards you, his voice lowering a few tones, but loud enough for you to hear him. His lips were almost brushing on yours as he spoke.

“Please what, Peach?” 

You felt your knees becoming weak, wobbling slightly at the closeness. Your heart was in your throat, beating intensely, making your breathing elaborate. His eyes were stuck on yours, waiting for your next move, for your next retort, to know if you would continue or if you would back out. 

And you don’t want him to win. Not this. Not like your Mario Kart plays. He cannot win this. You won’t be the one to break. You placed your hand on his hip, giving it a soft press and you saw how he closed his eyes and you don’t know if it was the alcohol, or the vibrations of the bass in the club, but you felt tingling on your fingertips and what sounded like a groan vibrate in his throat before he opened his eyes again.

“Please Eddie…” His stomach turned at your whimper, at your pout, at the needy look in your eyes. You both don’t know what you were asking for any more. Your eyes were going back and forth between his and then his lips. He could feel his hip burning where you were grabbing him, his heart racing in need as his head moved forward, a magnet. He was going in and you noticed.

But it was short-lived, as you snatched the can out of his grip thanks to him being distracted and you took a step back and away from his lips. His eyes were wide, looking at you as you opened the can, moving your hips happily from side to side to the rhythm of the music, not looking at him at all. 

You took a sip, and even if you wanted to look at his reaction, you turned and walked back into the dancefloor. Your nerves were all over the place, your mind twirling like a carousel because of the adrenaline, the alcohol, and the worry that the sober you will deal with the next day. And Eddie watched you walk away, his eyes burning and he did a quick turn to grab a can himself and chug it down.

He was angry. Oh so fucking angry.

He didn’t want anybody right now. He felt like a predator and he had to calm down. He had to drink alcohol for his mind to shut off, afraid of how he could act here, in front of all of your friends. He could care two shits for the strangers, he would fuck you in the middle of the dancefloor to show you who’s in fucking charge here.

Eddie didn’t like that thought. He cracked his neck and chugged the rest of the can down, hoping the alcohol would take effect soon. He spent the night talking to Argyle once he came back, who was not the dancing type, just like Eddie was. He had seen a few of his past hook ups walking by, batting their eyes at him, but he didn’t want anything to do with them. His arousal plummeted at the thought of sleeping with them.

After an hour, Argyle said he would be back only to leave Eddie alone again, but not for long. Someone patted his shoulder and he turned around to see Steve holding Robin up with Nancy on her other side while Jonathan held all their coats.

“Robin is already blabbering nonsense.” Steve stated and Robin giggled, wobbling in her place as she shook her head.

“You– are nonsense, dingus~” She slurred and Eddie couldn’t help but laugh and nod, looking down at Nancy.

“I am assuming you are going with them?” He asks, noticing his tongue is a little slurred too, his anger slowly lifting up as his friends offer distraction.

“Yeah– Can’t leave her alone you know?” He nodded at that and patted Steve on the shoulder and leaned forward to whisper into his ear.

“Go to Jonathan’s. Just in case.” At that Steve sighed and nodded, making Eddie chuckle.

“I’m not stupid, of course I’ll go to Jonathan’s…” He looked back at Robin who suddenly made a gagging motion and he immediately spurred into action, straightening her up. “Alright birdie, time to go before you make a mess of yourself publicly.”

Jonathan wobbled towards Eddie and gave him a kiss on the cheek and then a pat before walking out of the club first. Steve guided Robin out and Nancy gave him a hug and Eddie knew she was also drunk, hugging her back.

“Alright Nance, go take care of your girlfriend.” At his words, Nancy only giggled in delight as she pulled away and bounced a bit in her place.

“Girlfriend, she is my girlfriend, yes, I gotta go take care of my girlfriend!” With that, she rushes away from him, leaving him alone at the table where you all gathered your drinks. He looks around, the people dancing and walking around and he realizes it’s just you, him and Argyle… who he hasn’t seen in a while. 

So he ventures forth. He leaves the table behind as he walks through the crowd of people, rounding the dance floor, and in just two minutes he spots Argyle with a chick. Eddie wanted to holler at his friend, but by the way she was dressed and from pictures Argyle showed him… this was the girl he had been seeing lately. His perfect date and match as he called her.

He took a step forward and he felt his mind spin slightly and now he is feeling that last beer he chugged. He felt light, with a good buzz, his limbs relaxed as he looked into the dancefloor, and his eyes immediately found you.

You were dancing alone, a little bit of sweat on your forehead, moving your head from side to side to The Weeknd playing through the speakers. His feet moved automatically towards you, unable to control himself. His anger from before was coming back up again, but it wasn’t in full force. 

You were oblivious to your surroundings, not noticing you were dancing alone at all. The beer you stole from Eddie was still in your hand as you took sips, your hips going from side to side. You wanted the distraction, because your mind was becoming less rational, less conscious of your decisions, impulsiveness taking hold of your body movements the more you drank from that can of beer. 

Some people call it liquid courage, but for you tonight, it was liquid demise. Much more when a strong hand pressed on your shoulder, making your eyes open and turn around, trying not to tumble in your place. Deep brown eyes with red all around were looking down at you with an eyebrow raised in question. 

His forehead was a bit sweaty, so his fringe was sticking to it. His hair was a tad greasy, making it look kind of wet, which only added more to the look. Your stomach only turned even more at the sight, and he leaned forward, his breath hitting your ear which made your center only pulse for him, asking for him.

“Everyone else left Peach. Argyle is with Eden in a corner here.” He whispered to you and you nodded a bit, but words were stuck in your throat from how low his voice sounded, of how close he was. His breath sent shivers down your spine as it hit your ear, squirming at his mere presence. You licked your lips as you took a sip of the beer and he pulled away.

“What happened?” You slurred and Eddie only laughed at your tone making you pout. He noticed the pout and he bit his bottom lip in order to not succumb to the alcohol’s impulsiveness.

“Robin was about to pass out. Nance went with her.” And it dawned on you that you two were alone… the only friend in the club was occupied, distracted, eyes averted from the two of you. 

“How come you are not drunk?” You yelled through the music with your pout intact and he rolled his eyes, which was a bad idea because his head only whirled around and he only laughed, making you tilt your head confused but still smiling at his display.

“Oh, no, I’m drunk– Trust me, that last beer is starting to hit.” And you noticed the slight slur in his words, making you bite your bottom lip as you saw him smile, his canines showing in the middle of the purple lights of the club. 

The song ‘Pray for me’ started playing and you threw your head back in delight as your hips started swaying seductively, taking a sip of your beer. Eddie’s smile slowly dropped as his eyes scanned the expanse of your exposed neck, the sheer sweat and glitter on your skin as he throbbed inside his pants for you.

You opened your eyes again, a smile on your face as you let the impulsiveness of irrational actions take over. You grabbed his hand, ignoring the shock that was sent to your fingertips, smiling innocently at him.

“Dance Munson!” You yell through the music as you turn around in order to give your back to him. He sucked in a sharp breath as you moved in front of him. His eyes roamed your body as it moved from side to side and his hands itched for more. You were still holding his right hand and his throat bobbed as he felt shockwaves through his body thanks to your touch.

You knew what you were doing, but you couldn’t care anymore. Your rational mind was gone, even if conscious and knowing what you were doing, you cared two shits for the consequences of your actions. Will you regret it the next day? Probably, but right now you just want to bask in this attention, in this need. 

You took a sip of your beer as you moved lower, your ass almost touching him as you swayed it, and then straightened up again. Your breath catches in your throat when the hand you were holding lets go and starts gliding over your arm, slowly, and then goes downwards to grab onto your hip. 

A strangled moan escapes your lips when his body is suddenly pressed against yours. His chest on your back, and his hips against yours. His other hand went to your hip but moved a bit more to your front, pressing the side of your belly with the tips of his fingers. That simple action made your pussy clench onto nothing. 

You feel his hips moving slowly against yours and you press your ass onto him even more. You have danced close to Steve and Jonathan before, even Robin, but with him it was different. This wasn’t just a friendly dance. This is so much more. Every touch means so much more than just that. Every movement was intentional now, the alcohol controlling the both of you as the music guided your hips.

His face came close to your ear, his breath hitting your skin again, and your heart jumped to your throat as his fingers dug into your hips, your flesh, and it was making those areas burn. Your hips moved very slowly, never stopping as he talked lowly to you, tickling you.

“What do you think you are doing Peach?” You licked your lips as a sigh escaped them afterwards. In all honesty, you didn’t know, your mind is not ready to think of an answer to that right now. What were you doing? What was your plan? What’s going to happen?

That’s something you can worry about tomorrow.

You slowly turned around in his arms, looking up at him, squinting your eyes. His face was close, his breath and scent driving your senses to an overdrive. Your eyes were half-lidded thanks to the intoxication in your body, and his face was showing hints of redness as well. His right hand rested on your hip still while the left one moved upwards, getting hold of your waist.

“I’m just dancing… with a friend.” He wanted to laugh at your response. You were such a fucking bitch. You still dared to call him a friend after your words, after your ass pressed against his dick. His face became stern as he looked down at you, his fingers giving a warning press onto your hip.

“You are overdoing it tonight, sweetheart.” It was a threat, a line he was drawing between the two of you. You knew you were. You knew you were being a fucking idiot, but you couldn’t help it. Your eyes were fixated on his lips, and you shouldn’t do this while drunk. You shouldn’t but– when else were you going to?

Your arms went upwards and wrapped around his shoulders, the can of beer gripped tight on your left hand as you looked up at him. You pressed your chest against his as the hand on your waist moved towards your back, splaying his palm over the expanse of it to press you into him. 

You two were drunk. Not smashed, but you can both blame it on the intoxication. It’s a good excuse. A perfect one. This is just the alcohol’s doing, just the stupidness of the drinks you took through the night taking effect. It was an opening, a leverage, an opportunity.

And you were going to take it.

“Oh, and you aren’t?” You mumbled as you pressed yourself closer to him, and everything around the two of you ceased. The music became low, suppressed, and reverbed even, as your ears pulsed at each bass drop. His body was broader than yours, his body felt hot against yours as his hands gripped you, his head lowering with a smirk in his face.

“Did I? You sound bothered.” Your lips were almost there, about to touch, even if barely. His breath was mixing with yours. You could smell the beers, and you could feel how hot the air around you two was. His fingertips were driving you insane, and your impulses talked for you. 

Fuck this. 

“Shut up Eddie.” And you connected your lips to his. Your brain short-circuited, completely, it felt as if the oxygen left it, leaving only fog, haziness, bliss. You sighed into his lips as he breathed out a moan, a very low satisfied moan. 

He didn’t hesitate to move his lips against yours this time. This wasn’t going to be a peck. He needed to kiss you correctly, as it should have happened. His grip on you became stronger, his blood pumping rapidly through his body as the alcohol and hormones started to fight his consciousness, what little was left. 

You dropped the can to the floor, not caring where it landed, there wasn’t much left anyway, you needed to grip his hair, get your fingers through his locks the way you have been wanting to do for so long. So you did just that. Your hands ran from the back to his neck towards his scalp, fingers digging where they could, the tightness of his half ponytail already loosened through the course of the night, letting your nails run freely.

Your lips melted perfectly with one another’s, satisfaction in both of your hearts, but you know this won’t fill you. You know this satisfaction is temporary, a small victory, so you will enjoy this for as long as you can. 

He groaned into the kiss when he felt your nails scratch his nape. He felt himself twitch in his pants, wanting friction against you as he let go more each second that passed, which was dangerous. The hand on your hip traveled south, and ended grabbing a handful of your ass cheek, making you moan in surprise. 

He took your moan as an opportunity to slide his tongue into your mouth and fuck– fuck he was ruined. He was in trouble. You were so sweet, even with the beer taste still lingering in your mouth, on your tongue, you tasted so sweet. Like a fucking peach. He couldn’t help the possessive moan that escaped him as he gripped your ass tightly once more. 

You felt wetness pooling between your legs, the idea of doing something you really shouldn’t adding to the adrenaline, to the sensuality of the situation, but you couldn’t care less right now. All you could think about was Eddie. Eddie and his taste. Eddie and his tongue. Eddie and how fucking good of a kisser he is. Eddie and his big hands grabbing onto any part of your body that he could right now. Eddie and his tattoos. Eddie and his shirtless pictures. Eddie and the happy trail that always peeks out when he takes them. 

His tongue danced with yours, desperately, sloppily, all saliva and teeth, as if this was something you two have been yearning to do for more than you actually think. And maybe it was indeed that way. You just wanted to keep kissing him, but you also wanted to take him home. You wanted to fuck him. You need to fuck him. 

And Eddie won’t be satisfied with this. He knows it. Even in his drunken mind, he knows he won’t be happy until he has you completely. He fucking hates you for this, but he just decided to not care for the consequences. Sober or not. If he doesn’t have you anytime soon, he is going to explode, that’s how he feels. He needs to consume you. Taste you. Claim you. At least once.

You two don’t know how many minutes you spent it making out, like two horny teenagers, but you didn’t care. You didn’t care at all. Everything else didn’t exist right now. It was just the two of you, and your eyebrows twitched as you opened your eyes through the kiss and–

Oh, you were completely drunk. Opening your eyes was a mistake.

You pulled away, recovering your breath as your head fell backwards, eyes closing as your consciousness started to slowly slip away from you. Eddie’s eyes widened, his protectiveness overlapping his lust and his intoxicated state. He held you tightly, feeling you grow limp with each second that passed. He was breathing heavily as he looked at you, shaking you a bit in order for you to open your eyes.

“Peach? You alright?” His worried voice felt like a distant echo. You just wanted to sleep, your mind feeling as if it were on top of a horse in a carousel. It wouldn’t stop spinning, and you were starting to feel so sick.

“Mmm…” It’s all you managed to voice out as you opened your eyes, just a bit, and Eddie noticed that the last beer hit you harder than it should have, and what you two had done just now probably made it worse. 

“Alright, time to go home, let’s get Argyle.” He held you close, and the only thing you felt was as if you were floating. The lights in the clubs were dizzying, your head swirling and your stomach ache worsening. You couldn’t even think of regret for all the drinks you took. You just want to be at home and make this uncomfortable feeling wash away.

You know you were being carried, moved, and it all felt like a rollercoaster. You don’t even know if you puked or not. All you know is that at one point the flashing lights stopped, the hum of an engine was heard, and then you swayed from side to side as your head laid somewhere. On something strong.

The often pinch on your waist waking you up from falling into slumber. More swaying, more ups and downs, and then your feet were no longer on the ground. There were warm lights, and the sickness sort of dulled through this whole amusement park tour you just did. 

Then, softness. Just softness. You could finally close your eyes, hoping for this feeling to go away. Hoping that tonight would be forgotten, or hoping that whatever happened tonight would be enough. Sleep overtook you quickly, easily, but your dreams decided to still invade you. Sober you will wake up tomorrow… and probably regret it all. 

But… that’s a problem for the you of tomorrow. For now, you’ll just enjoy this dream. One where a certain metalhead touches you all over, his tongue running on every inch of skin, kissing you senseless as he rubs onto you, caressing you. This was the only way it would happen, wouldn’t it?

And you slept soundly, with the scent of cologne all around you. 

The wooden cologne.

end of chapter 16

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A/N: I DONT' THINK I CAN APOLOGIZE ENOUGH FOR HOW LONG I TOOK IM SO SORRY.

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[ythankucaptainmccoy]

The Cowgirl and The Aviator Ch9

Cranking these chapters and y'all are in for a treat next chapter ;). @smoothdogsgirl WARNINGS: Verbal abuse, Fighting and mentions of birth.

The barn brought back all of the good memories when you used to compete. All the late nights under the bright arena lights galloping around barrels and you teared up. “You alright?”, Jake questioned. “Yeah just remembering what it used to be like when I competed in barrels back home”, you replied. Your smile made Jake’s grin turn into a full blown smile. Damn you loved the way this man smiled at you. “You can pick any of the horses in here”, Colton informed you. You looked back at Jake as he nodded for you to go ahead. 

You walked down the row of stalls until you came to a stall that held a beautiful Kiger mustang. “What about this one?”, you asked. “That’s our newest edition. Only been ridden for thirty days. He’s still green but you're more than welcome to ride 'em’. We call him Rebel “, Colton explained. Jake seemed uneasy as he picked his horse a beautiful sorrel with white socks and blaze. You moved slowly and kept your voice calm as you haltered him. 

You took your time with him as you groomed him then saddled him. You could tell by his facial expression he was nervous and you took a deep breath and exhaled letting your body relax. Jake and the others headed out of the barn as you made your way to where they were waiting on horseback. You patted Rebel’s neck as you grabbed mane and hauled yourself up and into the saddle. You breathed in deep and exhaled slowly again to relax your body which in turn seemed to relax Rebel.

You noticed Annabelle was trotting in a circle waiting on the three of you. Colton held Georgia in front of him on his horse and you swear it was the cutest thing ever. Jake kept watching you making sure the horse you were on wasn’t going to freak out. You all headed out and before too long you were in the middle of nothing but grassland. “Let's go”, Annabelle said. She kicked her horse and took off at a canter. Jake looked back at you as Colton made his horse go as well. “We don’t have to if you don’t feel comfortable”, Jake said.

“I have ridden lots of horses Jake and trained all kinds of horses even mustangs I know what I’m doing”, you tell him. You asked your horse to go and boy did he as he lunged forward at a full gallop. It startled you at first but then you gave him some rein and let him go. Jake had to kick his horse to go following behind you. It didn’t take you long to catch up to the others as you slowed your horse, but he didn’t want to slow. You pulled on the reins and sat against him as he decided to throw a small buck.

“Oh no ya’ don’t”, you told him as he tried to keep going. That’s when he went into full bucking mode. “Yeah ride ‘em!”, Colton yelled. Jake was gripped with fear as he watched you ride the bucks. It took a few minutes, but eventually he decided to stop. “Well Jake I gotta say your girl knows how to ride”, Colton said. “I can’t believe you let her get on that horse”, Jake huffed. “She did perfectly fine. I’m sure she wouldn’t have gotten on if she couldn’t handle it”, Colton told him. 

You trotted up and stopped right in front of Jake’s horse. “That was the most fun I have had in such a long time”, you laughed. Jake’s mouth fell open slightly as you said something about going again then he smiled. “Come with me (Y/N) I know where we’re going”, Annabelle told you. You followed after her as Colton and Jake rode side by side. “I think you picked a good one Jake, she's a keeper”, Colton said. “Yeah she is”, Jake replied. “I was gonna’ wait to tell ya’ till after the ride, but your father found out you’re back. He has invited himself over tonight for dinner”, Colton informed. “Can’t that fucker just leave us well enough alone”, Jake sighed. “Bad unc Jake”, Georgia stated. “Sorry Georgia”, Jake replied.  “He knows that you brought a woman back with ya’ so you know how this is probably gonna’ go”, Colton explained.

“Well I’ll let (Y/N) know and we will just have to deal tonight”, Jake said confidently. He was anything but confident right now. He knew what was in store at dinner and he was praying that you wouldn’t decide to leave him. He pushed the thought to the back of his head and enjoyed the ride. Between the three of you the cattle were safely moved and on the ride back Annabelle wanted to race. “I’m out, you know your momma doesn’t like me racin’ with Georgia”, Colton said. 

“What about Jake and (Y/N)? We only race to the next gate.”, Annabelle asked. “I’m in”, you responded looking at Jake. “I don’t know it wouldn’t be fair for you two ladies”, Jake boasted. Colton snorted a laugh and shook his head. “There is that cocky pilot attitude”, you say. “I’m not cocky I just know I’m that good”, Jake grinned. “How about a bet”, you said. “What kind of bet?”, Jake questioned, remembering how the two of you met. “Well if you win I’ll take care of your horse when we get back, but if I win you have to take me out line dancing”, you say.

“Deal. Alright Annabelle let’s line up. Your dad can tell us when to go”, Jake said. “Annabelle gets a head start”, Colton said knowing that you two would pass her quickly. Annabelle took off and you kept looking at Jake who smirked that cocky way that you hated to admit that you loved. “On your marks. Get set. Let ‘em go!”, Colton yelled. Both horses launched themselves forward as you made your way to the next gate. You were both neck and neck, but you were still holding the reins on your horse pretty tight as you both passed Annabelle who yelled, “GO (Y/N) BEAT JAKE!”. 

“See ya at the finish line darlin’!”, Jake yelled. You let him believe he had it, but continued to hold your horse back until the last quarter mile. You let the reins go slack and squeezed your legs. Rebel got the message and bolted ahead gaining quickly on Jake. When you passed him Jake had a look of shock as you laughed. You let out a joyous cry as you passed the open gate and slowed Rebel down. Jake wouldn’t admit but when he watched you canter back he was imagining you riding him like that. 

“I believe you owe me a line dance”, you say coming up beside Jake’s horse. You patted Rebel on the neck as you waited for Annabelle and Colton to catch up with Georgia. Once back at the barn you untacked your horse and groomed him. Glancing at Jake every once in a while as he took care of his own horse. “Colton if you want we can take care of everything here in the barn”, Jake announced. Colton got the hint and took the girls inside  as you and Jake put the horses in their respective stalls.

“Jake, do you think Colton and Evelynn would let me enter the rodeo with Rebel?”, you asked. “He is green and doesn’t even know how to run barrels”, Jake replied. “I can train him within our stay period if that’s okay with you”, you say. Jake can tell that it means a lot to you. “I’ll be okay with it as long as Colton and Evelynn are alright with it”, he tells you. You smile and lean up to kiss him long and slow. “You still owe me a line dance”, you laugh. “That I do, but I think you should ask Colton about Rebel first”, he says. With the affirmation you jog to the house where Evelynn and Colton are more than happy to lend Rebel to you, and before you leave with Jake you register for the rodeo.

Jake, true to his word, takes you into Austin to a bar that has line dancing. You both have a few drinks and you're surprised when he shows you he can in fact dance, but at one point they play George Strait’s song “The Chair”. Jake pulls you in close as you both slow dance and mouthing the words as the next song is another George Strait song “Carrying Your Love With Me”. He loves the content smile as you lay your head on his chest. As you both sway to the music Jake in this moment realizes that not once have you ever turned him away.

Even as he cried in the kitchen after losing Banshee and Fluke you were there to pick up the pieces. “(Y/N)”, he whispers. “Yes baby”, you reply, looking into his eyes. “I love you”, he tells you. At that moment you swear you see his heart and soul being poured out in front of you and you can’t help but kiss him slowly ro reply with, “I love you too Jake”. When the next song comes on you decide you want to go home. You get into the truck to head back to the ranch. “Jake can we camp out under the stars tonight?”, you ask. 

“Anything for you darlin’ “, he responds. You both stop at the house to grab blankets and pillows. When you reach the pond Jake starts a fire as you set everything up in the bed of the truck. Under the stars you look at Jake who is looking at you like you’re the most beautiful thing in the world. “You know I was supposed to bring you to dinner tonight. My father was there to meet you”, he told you. “Why didn’t you?”, you inquired. “I promised to take you line dancing and you will always come before my asshole father”, he explained.

You smiled as you kissed him and pulled his shirt over his head. He grunts as you take a nip at his nipple before you go to his belt. That night you both spend time making each other cum with your mouths. Eventually Jake pulls you over him completely naked and covers you both as you both fall asleep. The night passes peacefully and you both startle awake when the truck’s horn blows loud and clear. Jake looks for the source and spots his father as he places you behind him. “What the hell do you want?”, Jake seethes.

“We need to talk”, Jake's father says. Jake looks at you as you nod to assure him you will be okay. His dad walks away as you both get dressed. You watch as Jake goes to talk with his father, but stay put and listen in as best as you can. “Why weren’t you at dinner last night boy?”, his father sneers. “I took my girl into town since I made a promise to take her out”, Jake replied. “Family is always first. I taught you better than to be disrespectful since your sister made dinner”, he said.

“She knew I wasn’t going to be there as I discussed it with her before we left for town. She was fine with us not being there so cut the shit. You are the one that feels disrespected because I put someone before you”, Jake accused. “Don’t think that your slut of a girlfriend won’t leave you like the last one”, his father digs. “She isn’t like the last one”, Jake defended. “Whatever you want to believe, but your sister is going to make dinner again tonight and I expect you to be there”, his father announced. 

Jake’s father tipped his hat at you and got into his truck and drove off. “Jake, are you okay?”, you ask. “Yeah I’ll be fine. I’m sorry if you overheard what he said”, he apologized. “No Jake, Never apologize on your asshole fathers behalf. He doesn’t deserve it”, you reply. Jake smiles at that knowing you're in his corner. “Well let’s get to the house so we can get ready for the day. I want to help Evelynn with dinner since we missed last night”, you told him.

The drive back to the house you could tell Jake was nervous and tense. After your showers and getting ready Jake took you up to the main house so you could help Evelynn. “You know you don’t have to help me”, Evelynn said. “Well I feel like it’s the least I could do”, you replied. “Since you have met my father already I’m sure you have already judged what dinner will be like tonight. The last girl he brought home left crying and a couple days later she packed up and left”, Evelynn says. 

“I wouldn’t leave Jake to fight this battle alone”, you assure. Evelynn smiles at that knowing that what you say is true. “You both are a great match”, she laughs. “Well I felt like whatever happened happened so fast. Hell to some it seemed too fast”, you sigh. “Well I only dated Colton for a year and look where we are now”, Evelynn laughs. It makes you feel better now to know that piece of information. 

The day was spent helping Evelynn to get the dinner together as Jake, Colton and the girls had decided to go riding. When they got back everyone seemed to be bracing for the arrival of Jake and Evelynn’s father. He showed up a few minutes late, but no one said anything about it. You sat beside Jake and once everyone was sitting Colton said grace. The dinner table was quiet other than Georgia asking for help to cut up some of her food. “When are you coming back home to take over the ranch”, Jake’s father says. 

“I’ve already told you not anytime soon”, Jake snaps. You knew this was going to be an intense dinner from the start. “Well at least your sister is finally having a son. I may leave everything to him”, his father states. “My son will not be saddled with that ranch’s name”, Colton speaks up. “So what your going to give him this ranch?”, he sneers. “He can take over this ranch, he can go to college or anything else he wants to do, but I won’t force him to take over anything if he doesn’t want to”, Colton replies. 

“I always knew you married a weak man”, he says to Evelynn. It continues on for a few minutes as Jake is becoming more agitated. “I think the only weak man is you”, you blurt out at Jake’s father. “Excuse me, but I didn’t ask for your opinion”, he snarks. “No you didn’t but you’re gonna’ hear it anyway and I don’t give a damn how you feel about it. From what I can tell you can’t stand the fact that you aren’t in control of anyone anymore and it pisses you off”, you state. Jake is staring at you wide eyed as you square your shoulders.

Jake’s father glares at you as you hold his gaze. ���You have some horns on you girl, but you will show me respect”, he states. “I only show respect to people who have earned it. I don’t just give it for free. So far tonight I have seen nothing you have done that would earn my respect”, you respond. Evelynn announces she is going to take the girls upstairs for a bath and leaves. Colton says something about going outside for some air. 

Once outside Jake’s father picks his fight with you again. “I don’t think you’re the type I want dating my son”, he huffs. “Why because I speak my own mind and not afraid of a horrid old man that used to hit his wife”, you spit. The next thing you know Jake’s father throws a punch your way, but it never lands as you hear a grunt then a full on scrap. Jake had tackled his father and was now scrapping with him on the ground. “Jake”, you cry, but Colton grabs you as you try to go help him.

“He needs to do this (Y/N)”, Colton says. You watch as they trade blows, but it is clear that Jake is winning. Within ten minutes it’s over as Jake stands over his father. “Don’t you ever try to put your hands on my woman again. If you ever hurt her I’ll kill you old man. Now leave and don’t ever come back to bother me or this family ranch again”, Jake growls. Jake’s father is heaving as he is trying to catch his breath. Colton lets you go as you run to Jake to check him over, but he only pulls you into his side. 

All three of you stare down the old man as he curses you all as he gets in his truck and leaves. As soon as he is gone you fuss over Jake’s face and his split knuckles. He lets you lead him into the kitchen where he pulls you into his lap as you try to ice the bruises on his face. “I love you”, he whispers. “I love you too, but you didn’t have to do that”, you reply. “It was a long time coming and I should have done it a lot sooner”, he tells you. You kiss him tenderly as you tell him to continue to ice his face while you help clean up the dinner table.

When Evelynn comes back down she asks Jake what had happened as he explains. Evelynn tells him how proud she is and that she was waiting for the day he would finally take his frustration out on their old man. Colton hands Jake a beer and they head outside as you help Evelynn with the dishes. “You know he loves you right”, she tells you. “I know he does, I can see it every day”, you respond. “You’re the first girl he has brought here since college”, she mutters. “What do you mean?”, you ask.

“He brought his ex down here, and she cried when my father came to dinner. Then a week after they went back Jake found out that she was cheating on him with his roommate. He was shattered when he found out because he had bought a ring to ask her to marry him. He hasn’t had a real relationship since then and that was years ago”, Evelynn explained. You looked out to the front porch where Jake was still talking with Colton. “Most people never give him a chance. I know he can be cocky when he is on base, but no one really knows him like we do”, Evelynn says.

You file away that information as you finish up. When you and Jake end up back at the house you're staying in you show him how grateful you are by giving him a massage. “Thank you for protecting me”, you whisper. “I would do it anytime for you darlin’ “, he whispers back. That night you relax by watching a couple of old westerns until you fall asleep. Jake feels liberated after all these years of taking verbal abuse and sometimes physical abuse from his father. He smiles down at you when he recalls Colton telling him you were ready to jump into the scrap to help him.

The week is much the same, but you spend most days training Rebel and within the week he has it down. The rodeo is a week away and you are getting more excited as Jake watches you train. He has to admit he likes watching you ride even with being thrown a couple times. Each time you were thrown he would run into the arena checking you over. You would just laugh and tell him it was part of the process especially with a green horse. The days wear you out, and you are usually asleep by the time Jake slips into bed.

The next week goes by smoothly until Wednesday as Colton comes tearing down the driveway. “Evelynn thinks it’s time to go. Can you take the girls and meet us at the hospital”, he rushes. Jake agrees as the girls get out of the truck and come to stand with you. Evelynn is in the passenger seat cool as a cucumber. “Are you okay?”, you ask. “Yeah this is my third kid I know what to expect now. He is a little early, but it’ll be alright”, she tells you. Colton hops back in the truck and floors it out of there.

“I think he is more worried than she is”, you laugh. “Yeah you should have seen him with Annabelle”, Jake states. You get Georgia into the truck in her car seat and Annabelle gets herself buckled in. Three hours and you're in the hospital waiting room as the girls try to keep themselves entertained. Annabelle decides she wants to go for a walk around the hospital so you all decide to go. Georgia is smiling as she points at the ducks on a small pond by the hospital.

“Uncle Jake, can we go get something to eat?”, Annabelle complains. “Yeah we can walk down the street and get some Mexican food”, Jake says. Annabelle lights up at the prospect and Jake explains that Mexican food is Annabelle’s favorite. The meal is delicious and you help Georgia with her cheese quesadilla. Jake can’t help but watch you anytime you interact with the girls. He knows that you’re good with kids and if he plays his cards right he hopes someday you both can have some kids running around. 

When you all got back to the hospital it was late evening when the nurse came out to inform you that Evelynn and the baby were doing great. A couple hours after that another nurse came to ask if anyone wanted to go see the baby. Annabelle was excited as she pulled on Jake’s hand as you held a sleeping Georgia. “Go meet your nephew I’ll stay here with Georgia”, you whisper. He leaned down and kissed you then headed to go meet his nephew.

When Jake comes back he has tears in his eyes with the goofiest grin on his face. “Are you okay?”, you ask. “Yeah it was just a lot”, he says. “He was so small”, Annabelle says. “You used to be that small when you were born”, Jake says. “How do you know?”, Annabelle questioned. “Because I waited in this same hospital and held you after you were born”, Jake muses. Georgia was still asleep and Jake had said that Evelynn and the baby would be home by Friday. “Do you mind if the girls come back home with us?”, Jake asked. “I don’t mind baby”, you tell him. 

When you reach the house Jake goes to the empty room that you hadn’t been in. There were two twin beds and you could tell this is where the girls would stay when he was here. You carried a still sleeping Georgia while Jake carried a now sleeping Annabelle. They looked so peaceful and Jake turned out the light grabbing your hand and leading you to your room. You both lay there as Jake holds you. “He was so small and I can’t believe I have a nephew. I wish you could have seen him”, Jake sighs.

“I’ll see him soon enough”, you tell him. You both fell asleep, but it didn’t last long as you felt a tug on the back of your shirt. You rolled over and came face to face with Georgia, tears streaming down her face. “Oh what's wrong sweetheart?”, you ask. “Stom”, she hiccupped. About two seconds later the sky lit up and thunder boomed outside as Georgia jumped clinging to you. “Darlin’ what’s wrong”, Jake yawned. “The storm woke Georgia up”, you relayed. “Do you want to sleep in our bed?”, you asked. She nodded as you pulled her up and in between you and Jake.

“It’s alright Georgia you're safe here with Uncle Jake and Aunt (Y/N)”, Jake hummed half asleep. You froze as Georgia curled up between you as Jake’s words sank in. You watched as she snuggled into you and clung to your shirt. Jake smiled and threw his arm around both of you as everyone settled in. Jake and Georgia went to sleep first then you drifted off soon after. The next morning Georgia and Jake were gone and you could hear giggling coming from the kitchen.

When you walked in there was pancake batter all over the counters. Annabelle was giggling as Jake was making pancakes. “Aunt (Y/N)!” Georgia squealed. She ran to you and hugged your leg and you instantly started to tear up. “Darlin’ what’s wrong?”, Jake asked. “I have never been called Aunt anything”, you said. “I thought your brother had kids”, Jake stated. “Yeah but he never let me see them”, you replied. 

Jake stopped what he was doing and came over to pull you into a hug. “Well you have a family here if you want it”, Jake told you. You let the tears fall as you heard those words and next thing you knew Annabelle and Georgia were hugging you too. “Uncle Jake is right, we can be your family. “Thanks now let’s try and clean up this mess”, you sniffled. As Jake finished the pancakes you and Annabelle helped clean up.

[foreverdolly]

𝐈 𝐉𝐔𝐒𝐓 𝐑𝐈𝐃𝐄 |80's mechanic!austin x best friend!reader

summary: it's starting to look like he might never make it out of the friend zone. austin has been in love with you for as long as he can remember, and he's terrified that you'll never see him as anything more than a best friend and protector. with the fear of you one day outgrowing him fresh on his mind, he's now hell bent on getting you to view him in a different light. madly in love and terrified to lose you, austin butler is playing for keeps.

pairings: 80s mechanic! austin x childhood best friend!reader

word count: 4.8k

notes/warnings: SMUT! in part two, virgin!austin. . . need i say more?, i love pining and this fic is testament to that, shaky/hurried hands, who doesn't love a good best friends to lovers fic, he has a deep southern accent, austin is the small town's metalhead and he's swelteringly hot without even trying. (this is going to have to be two parts because it turned out too long after editing. the smut alone is like. . . five pages on google docs.)

The incessant metallic clinging and loud mechanic whirs echoed against the cement flooring of the auto body garage. The sun was peeking just over the trees right outside the open garage doors, the spring sky slowly burning gold and pink. Most of the men were rushing to finish up with the vehicles that they were working on, eager to get home to their families after a long day of work. There was one mechanic though -who might be young, but made up for it with skill- was still elbow deep under the car’s hood, eyebrows furrowed in deep concentration. He’d only been looking at the car for five minutes and knew exactly what was wrong with it. The elderly woman had gotten her car towed all the way to Travis’ shop after the damn thing stalled out in the middle of the Winn-Dixie parking lot. The young mechanic could see her through the lobby’s windows watching him, her tiny wrinkly hands balled up into nervous fists.

“Aye- Austin?” Travis jogged right up to Austin, placing his hand down on one of the side mirrors as he waited for the diagnosis. 

“It’s not the engine. The transmission,” He pointed towards the old hunk of junk, leaning his head back under the hood to show his boss. “It’s completely shot. She said it will jerk when she accelerates and the wheel will sometimes shake when she’s goin’ fast enough. What’s happening is that it’s slippin’. The damn thing won’t stay in gear. This car is ten years out of date- I mean. . . It's a ‘74. So even if we order the parts-” 

“It’s gonna cost more to fix than it would be for her to just buy a whole new one.” The boss finished for him, sighing when he saw Austin nod his head in agreement. 

The long haired blonde blinked his eyes against the burning sunset, shooing a gnat away from his face as he leaned his hip against the car. He crossed one booted foot over the other as he waited patiently for the man to make a decision. While Travis enjoyed making money, Austin knew that the bastard was above stealing it from little old ladies. With a small huff of defeat the middle aged man began walking back in the direction of the lobby, most likely to break the bad news. He stopped just before he opened the door, pointing a quick finger-gun in Austin’s direction. 

“Are you comin’ over to Mark’s cookout tonight? You can bring your girl.” He called out over the loud noise. 

Austin shook his head before flashing the man a little face of distaste. 

“I’ve gotta go to my dad’s house to grab some of my old shit. Besides- I don’t have a girl to bring.” 

Travis shot him “a face” right back, but one of disbelief. “Yeah, right. A girl doesn’t just bring her friend a hand packed lunch every other day unless she was hopin’ for somethin’ to happen between them..” And before Austin could even defend himself the man was gone, sauntering solemnly over to the corner where the elderly woman was sitting. 

You weren’t the one that was hoping for a chance at romance, but Austin was. He’d rather die than admit it, but his co-workers' words lit a small fire in his chest; a hopeful pyre that didn’t dim. 

The wooden stairs were old and weather worn, the nails rusted with age. Austin always felt a sense of dread when he heard the familiar creaking under his feet, and the fact that he could hear the television droning on from inside of the trailer didn’t make it any better. It meant that he was home, and the blonde knew what that meant. A fight was sure to ensue, and after the shitty day that he had at work, that was the last thing that he wanted to endure. He found that the door was unlocked, per usual. The inhabitant of the rickety death trap didn’t have anything worth stealing. 

“Why are you here?” The middle aged man looked terrible for his age, though Austin blamed that on the endless supply of alcohol and drugs that ran through the man’s system. 

Austin cleared his throat, closing the door behind him with a grimace. He didn’t want to be here, but there were still a few boxes back in his old room that he needed to grab. After that he’d be gone for good, or at least that’s what he told himself anyway. His no-good father was used to relying on other people to save the day, one of those people being his own son. 

He blamed his strong sense of duties on the fact that he was raised in the deep south. “Being a man” was hammered into his skull from the moment of his very conception. Taking care of your family, especially when they are unable to do it for themselves, was considered a must. Austin had always hated his father. In fact, he couldn’t remember a single time in his life when he had felt gratitude or love in any magnitude towards his father. Still, he was a man and needed to provide for his family. . . right? He didn’t want anyone to think less of him for abandoning his father. More than anything, he didn’t want the wrong kind of gossip ending up in the wrong people’s ears.

What was important to him now was getting the hell away from his abusive father. He was old enough to start thinking about what he wanted for himself in the future. He’d always craved companionship with a certain person. . . children were on his radar too. The last thing he wanted was for his druggie father to be in his own kid’s lives. 

The lanky man didn’t fit in the small home anymore, and he hadn’t for years. Both physically and emotionally, he had outgrown his prison many moons ago. He took a few seconds to look around the living room. Now that he wasn’t there to clean up after the grotesque man, the house smelled absolutely putrid. Austin’s nose wrinkled in disgust, eyes dancing along the empty beer cans and overflowing sink. 

“Jus’ gettin’ the last of my stuff.” Austin grumbled, his bulky black boots sticking to the dirty linoleum floors as he tried his best to breeze past the older man’s old recliner. 

A hand reached out, gripping at his wrist to stop him. Austin looked down, the muscles in his sharp jaw clicking as he held back the urge to rip himself out of the man’s reach. He knew that he was too big for the man to intimidate now, but his body still remembered the pain his father had put him through as a kid. 

“Ya talkin’ bout that toolbox?” The man’s voice was gravely, all thanks to the menthols he religiously smoked. Austin could smell the Miller Light and smoke coming off of him now. It was nauseating. 

The blonde ripped his eyes off of the man’s face, peeking off down the hall to see his old bedroom door wide open. He had locked it from the inside and crawled out the window the last time that he was here, taking the spare key with him. It was still tucked away safely in his wallet. His breathing stuttered when he realized that the doorknob had been taken off completely. 

“I need it for work. What did you do with it?” Austin tried to school the deep southern accent out of his voice. He got into the habit of doing that around his father from a young age, desperately wanting to seem as different from the old man as possible. 

“If that’s what yer here for, don’ bother. I sold it.” The young adult’s heart sank to his ass, and this time he didn’t hesitate in ripping his wrist out of the man’s hand. 

“To who? Where is it?” Austin questioned heatedly, staring daggers into the old man’s face. 

The sandy haired man was staring back at the television now, watching old reruns of some shitty old Western movie that must have come out in the sixties. He didn’t answer Austin, too drunk to care and too high to listen. 

“Dad!” Austin’s deep voice boomed, echoing around the filthy trailer. “Where the fuck did you take it? The pawn shop off’a Assembly Street?” That was where his father often sold stolen shit for a few extra bucks. 

That got the other man’s attention. He didn’t take kindly to being yelled and cursed at, especially not by his son. He could always deal it out, but refused to take it. Ray Butler had stopped beating on his son during his Junior year in highschool though, realizing that the boy was now bigger than him. Out of a cowardly fear for his own safety, he stuck to the emotional abuse instead, which only got worse once he didn’t have a true outlet for his frustrations. Austin bristled as he watched the old man glare up at him, taking a long swig from his beer before answering. 

“I took it to Keith’s. If ya needed it so bad, why the hell didn’t you take it with ya in the first place? It’s in my house, so I can do whatever the fuck I want with it.” It was surprising how coherent the man was, especially since he must have been drinking all day long. 

Austin’s father hadn’t had a job in the last seven years, but still managed to scrape by somehow. He was a petty thief whose criminal record stretched all the way back into his boyhood. He had raised the blonde to be the exact same way, but the only thing Austin had truly adopted from his “teachings” was a shared hatred for cops and a scrappy sort of resourcefulness. The other kids that he was forced to interact with at school were the ones that taught him how to fight. They enjoyed taking turns trying to beat the shit out of the town’s poor kid, but once he finally hit his growth spurt in the summer after sixth grade the roles were largely reversed. Nobody messed with him by the time that he had entered high school. He was feared by his peers and just as hated. 

The negative image that he had created served him well though. Not only had he made a name for himself, he had also gained the ability to protect his best friend, which was the only thing he really cared about. Getting the dog shit knocked out of him was one thing, but seeing boys and girls teasing her was a different story. He remembered storming into the girl’s bathroom during his junior year very vividly, yanking up one of popular blonde’s by the back of her shirt. 

“I’m a Butler, so don’t think that I’m above hittin’ a girl.” 

He’d constantly ask you if the bullying persisted even after that, but you always went out of your way to tell him that they had stopped their teasing. Austin was made fun of because he lived in a trailer that should have been condemned long since they originally moved in and barely had enough money to get school supplies every year, but you were picked on because you were perfect. It didn’t make any sense to him, but girls are strange creatures. You made good grades, was the nicest person he had ever met without even trying, and your natural good looks made matters even worse for you. Getting the mean girls to steer clear of you wasn’t the hard part, but keeping the male pervert’s away was an entirely different story. 

It didn’t help that after a long day of putting up with the constant glares, rumors, and telling boys to back off, he’d be forced to come home to incessant tongue lashings. He barely had time to study after taking care of the forty year old drunkard, hence his rotten grades in school. You could only do his homework for him so many times, but hey- you tried. He graduated because of you, at the very least. 

He had landed a job as a mechanic straight out of high school, having been skilled for his age. Who knew that driving a shitty lemon of a car that he constantly had to fix up would lead to a career? He had gotten lucky, which was a rarity in his life. 

Getting his own place was one hell of an achievement, but his past always found a way to come back and haunt him. 

Austin stormed through the connected kitchen and down the hall, sucking in a deep breath before he entered the room. All of the boxes that he had stacked in the corner had been ransacked and picked clean. It was Austin’s fault for thinking that a simple locked door would keep his father out. The blonde could scream over his stolen Iron Maiden and Dio tapes later, for now he needed to focus on the important thing: his tools. 

“You sold them to your crackhead dealer? For what? A bag, right? That was over a hundred dollars worth’a tools!” He screamed from the backroom, kicking an old wooden chair that had been junking up his old room for ages. The thing went flying, hitting the opposite wall with a resounding cracking noise. 

Austin was covered in car oil, smelled like gasoline and sweat after a long day of work, and all he had wanted was to slip in the trailer undetected and grab his things. He had hoped that his father would have been passed out in his room by now so that he could have been in and out without being forced to converse. Nothing ever seemed to go his way. The blonde reached for the metal baseball bat that he still had stuffed under his childhood bed, knocking it against his boot a few times before storming out of the room, pushing past his father and heading straight for the front door. 

“Austin, wait,” The male knew what was coming. The only time his father ever referred to him by his name was when he wanted something. “Can you give me twenty dollars? I need’a pay the power.” 

The baseball bat felt heavy in his hand. He balanced the weight for a second, his jaw clicking as he imagined just how good it would feel to bring it down on top of the other man’s head. If Ray ended up dead, he was sure that he could blame it on a handful of people who he had stolen from or cheated. Austin didn’t need that on his conscience though. So instead of barking back a reply or even pulling out his wallet, he yanked his hand away with a grunt, storming out the door. 

“Jus’ use the money that you got from sellin’ all’a my shit.” He called out before slamming the door behind him, the small and dingy diamond shaped window vibrating with the force of his anger. 

“Is your mama home? If not then I’m gonna use your shower.” Austin gently pushed his way into the house, kicking off his dirty work boots before bounding up the familiar carpeted stairs. 

You blinked in the entryway, slowly closing the front door before turning around to watch him go, the chain from his wallet jingling with his movement. With a small sigh you locked it behind you, following up after him. 

“Well hello to you too.” You teased, watching him open up the linen closet so that he could grab a towel. He was caked with grease, his sun kissed cheeks speckled with black and gray. His black work shirt fit snugly on his form, having shrunk in the wash. At his hip, swinging around with every step that he took, was his black handkerchief. It was also wrecked with engine grease, having been used to clean his hands one too many times that day. He looked devilishly handsome, but he always did. Nothing new. 

“Sorry. Really bad day. Just got back from Keith’s place- he had some of the shit that I left at my dad’s.” He left the bathroom door open as he slipped off his socks, then hurriedly took his shirt off and threw that into the dirty clothes hamper. His small apartment didn’t have a washer and dryer hookup, so he had been doing his laundry at your place for the last two months. 

You didn’t mind, and your mother and father hadn’t noticed either. You sucked at your teeth, turning around to give him privacy. You heard the shower turn on, then the familiar clanking of his chain wallet hitting the side of the sink. Once you heard the shower curtain open and close you turned around, seeing the room empty, his dirty clothes piled neatly in the hamper. You closed the bathroom door behind you as you stepped inside, jumping up on the counter so that you could swing your legs back and forth as you spoke. He seemed frustrated, and you could tell that he needed to talk about it. 

Growing up in a tragically tiny town meant that everybody was always in each other’s business. From preschool to your senior year in high school, every moment was spent with the same exact children. You could count the newer families to move into the small community over the last five years on one hand. Life was slow moving in the old south, and things were horrifically monotonous. You and the blonde had been stuck together like glue ever since primary school, and you didn’t see it changing in the future. 

To say that you knew Austin like the back of your hand was an understatement. Every flaw, quirk and triumph had either been discovered by you, with you at his side, or involved you in some way. In a town filled with mostly elderly folks, kids often found a group of likeminded people and stuck with them for the entirety of their lives. It was horribly predictable of the two of you, yet here you two were, connected at the hip. The bond between you and Austin went above just being best friends. It was something tied to your soul. It wasn’t just hard to imagine a life without him in it, rather it was impossible. 

He didn’t have to tell you that he was angry for you to know that he was beyond aggravated. The restlessness was plain to see. Whether he would be upfront and tell you about the reason or not, you could tell that he needed someone to just sit and listen. Austin wasn’t the kind of person to talk in depth about the things that really upset him. He was more of the “suffer in silence until I inevitably blow up” type. You, on the other hand, weren’t afraid to whine and cry to him about even the slightest of inconveniences. The two of you were polar opposites, and yet it just worked. 

“Keith let you in the house?” You asked incredulously, raising an eyebrow as you watched the steam beginning to curl up and over the curtain. 

Austin let out a humorless laugh, and you could imagine him shaking his head back and forth. You smiled despite the situation, bringing your hand up to your mouth so that you could bite down on your thumb nail. You instantly regretted it, pulling away to see that you had already chipped your freshly painted fingers. 

“A’course he didn’t. I broke into the fucker’s place. Got my tool box back, but the damn thing had been ransacked already. The bones picked clean. I’m out over fifty dollars in tools- checked it once I got back into the car.” 

“Jesus- did he see you? That guy is absolutely insane.” Thankfully, you’d only met the man in passing a handful of times. He was the crazy townee that everybody knew and feared. Keith was the kind of person that you point out to your developing teens to scare them away from drugs and alcohol. “If you don’t want to end up like Ole’ Keith, you better not touch that stuff.” He had a bunch of handmade signs outside of his house with bible scriptures on them, meanwhile the man was dealing meth and coke to make a living. As was the deep south, filled to the brim with religious and moral hypocrisies. 

Either you were a devout Christian or just another local crackhead. Thankfully, you and Austin didn’t fall into either of those categories. You seemed to have made one of your own over the years. 

“He wasn’t home. His truck was gone. The dude left his bedroom window unlocked, so I just ripped the screen off.” 

You used to worry for Austin on a daily basis. The burns and bruises he’d come to school with broke your heart, but no matter how many times you begged your parents to let the blonde come and live with you, they always let you down. You were happy that he finally had somewhere safe to lay his head at night, though he still hadn’t broken the habit of spending most of his down time with you (and you prayed he wouldn’t ever grow out of that habit). As soon as he got off work he was making his way up to your bedroom, often dead tired down to his bones or pissed off. Your parents were gone most of the time anyway though. Your father was a hotshot business man who was away for work most of the time, and your mother insisted on following along with him after the “incident” that happened when you were twelve.

Men who spend most days without their wives and children breathing down their neck usually take advantage of the opportunity. Your father was no different. He was no saint. Then again, neither was your mother. She took most of her frustration out on you after that, and though you knew that her outbursts weren’t a direct cause of anything that you had personally done, that didn’t make it any better. 

Austin was just as much your therapist as you were his. Maybe that was the cause for your codependency. . . either way, neither of you regretted it. It only strengthened the bond, really. 

After Austin was showered and dressed in an outfit that he had left at your house some weeks ago, the two of you found yourselves sprawled out on your bed. You were busy finishing up some homework for one of your classes, and he was reading one of your magazines. He had his head hanging off the side of the mattress, ankles crossed up on one of your pillows. His wet hair was dripping onto your floor. The constant droplets hitting your outdated shag carpet lulled the two of you into a comfortable silence. The two of you didn’t need to talk 

“Where’s a newer one? This one’s a year old.” He suddenly dropped what he was reading onto the floor next to his head, sitting up so that he could face you again. 

You scrunched up your nose, dropping your psychology textbook beside you. 

“That is the newer one.” You told him, to which he scooped it up and off of the floor, turning it over and pointing at the date. 

He was right. It was old. 

It was the June twenty-first issue, the date clear to see on the front: nineteen eighty-four. Bob Dylan was posed on the front in all of his tambourine-man glory. 

“Shit. Sorry, Aus. I thought I handed you the Beatles Anniversary edition.” You started to stand up, but he waved you off. 

“I should probably get going anyway. I have to try to cook myself something. If I don’t eat now then I’ll jus’ go to bed hungry.” 

You had hoped that the two of you could order pizza tonight, but you kept your mouth shut. Lately you found yourself clinging to him a little bit harder than usual. Maybe it was the stress of your sophomore year in college, but you couldn’t be certain. You tried to school the disappointment off of your face as you nodded, standing up to walk him back to the front door. 

“Are we still driving down to see Dave’s show? His band sucks, but he’ll be disappointed if we miss it.” He asked you at the front door, shoving his sock clad feet into his work boots and tying them up haphazardly. 

You slapped your forehead with the palm of your hand, eyes wide. You’d completely forgotten about your friend’s show tomorrow. You’d planned to stay after class and study in the library, but you didn’t mind cramming for next week's test. Austin laughed, the sound causing you to smile to yourself. His laugh was deep, rich and completely contagious. He reached out, his large hand wrapping around your wrist to pull your hand away from your face. 

“You forgot, didn’t you?” He leaned down so that he was at your height, his smile practically blinding. 

You sucked in a breath, but nodded your head anyway. It was hard not to notice his beauty in moments like this. He’d always been handsome, but lately you’d been looking a little too closely at that. A sick twinge of guilt soured your stomach, a feeling of what could only be categorized as “betrayal” causing your face to flush. He was your best friend, and if he knew that you were looking at him like that he would probably be disgusted with you. Hell, you were horrified by your own thoughts recently. You tried to blame the odd feelings on your long-standing lack of romance, but you were starting to believe that was just an excuse.

“I completely forgot.” And you felt bad about it. You’d been so busy with your school work, the recent fight that you had with your mother and. . . well. . . Austin. You cleared your throat softly, kicking at an imaginary pebble on the tiled floor to try and distract yourself. 

Austin seemed to notice the change in attitude and put his hand on the top of your head, ruffling your hair in the way that he knew you despised. He chuckled when you slapped his hand away, instead moving his hand to the base of your neck so that he could pull your much smaller form against his in a tight hug. He’d always been lean and tall, but his physically demanding job had caused his muscles to fill out. He felt warm and strong, smelling of your shampoo. 

“I’ll drive us tomorrow, alright? Maybe you can get some studying done in the car.” And with that he removed his arms from around you. 

You felt the loss of his warmth like a slap in the face. You let him go though, watching as he bounded down the steps towards his van, his keys jingling in his hand with the movement. He was in higher spirits after spending a few hours in your presence. He felt lighter, like some of the crushing weight had been lifted off of his shoulders. You leaned against the doorframe, peeking your head out just to watch him. 

“I love you! Drive home safe, alright?” You called out. 

Austin couldn’t fight off the blush that raised to his ears, but he turned around and quickly returned the sentiment. You had told him that you loved him every day, but his heart still pounded like it had the very first time. Only these days he wished that you really meant it. 

That you loved him the same way that he loved you. 

[pumpkin-spice-whump]

Okay I'm super nervous to post this. This is a snippet of my novel I'm going to be publishing later this year (!!!!) And i want to share a bit here. It is an apocalyptic thriller heavy on captivity whump. This is a flashback to our main character being kidnapped and sold. He just got out of the back of a semi where he suffered heat exhaustion. This is one of the pieces I'm happy with so far, so sorry it's throwing you in in the middle!! But hopefully I'll post a bit more as I get further along editing!!

--

Looking back, Jack realized how close he was to death those first few days. He should’ve been in a hospital on an IV, but you know traffickers. They don’t care all that much about human lives.

Every so often the driver of the truck would wake him up and make him drink water, pee in a bucket. He’d blink behind the stupid duct tape blindfold, fumbling for a sense of direction. Sometimes he could hear people talking and walking beyond the walls and windows of the truck and he knew they were at a truck stop.

Faintly, he remembered seeing posters on the inside of stall doors from a trip he took for basketball last year. About the sign for help. Again, he wished he cared enough about kidnapping to remember any of that.

“Can… can I go to the bathroom?” he asked, hoping for a miracle.

Something thudded. “Bucket’s there kid. I’m not looking.”

Jack had no way to know that was true. It was in the back of his mind every time. “No. I gotta like… go.”

It thudded again. “Yeah. I know. Bucket’s here.”

“I’m not… Not in front of you.”

“That’s up to you. But if you shit your pants then you are definitely riding in the back, so keep that in mind.”

He probably would’ve followed Jack into the stall anyway.

Every time Jack was done, the man would give him pills to knock him out, and then wake him up again.

This time, he shook Jack awake and made him sit up. Jack’s head lolled back for a

moment before he could fully wake up. He was so weak and tired, there was no way he would’ve been able to walk to the bathroom anyway. The duct tape was ripped off and he inhaled a deep breath before the water bottle was pushed to his mouth.

“You gotta piss?” Jack shook his head when the bottle left. “Good.”

Then his hands started to tear away the tape over his eyes.

“What’s going on?” Jack asked, tongue heavy in his mouth. He blinked hard against the bright light and was suddenly filled with hope at the idea that he was being let go. Maybe the man felt guilty and wanted to fix the error of his ways! However, after his eyes adjusted he realized that it wasn’t the afternoon sun in his eyes, but the overhead light in the cab.

“My leg of the trip is over. Keep quiet or I’ll put the tape back on got it?”

Jack nodded, too scared to do anything but follow along as the man led him - half carried him really - out of the truck and on the dark pavement.

They were at a rest stop, an abandoned one by the looks of it. The streetlight was off, the bathroom doors boarded closed. There was a broken swing on the overgrown playground.

There was only one other car in the parking lot. A man leaned against the hood. Tall, with a long face set with lines telling his age. Couldn’t be less than forty, maybe fifty. He was wearing a dirty jacket and jeans, like he’d been working outside all day. A baseball cap covered what looked to be graying hair.

The driver let go of Jack and he fell to his knees without the support. A hiss of pain escaped him as loose gravel dug into his knees.

“Will it do?” the driver asked.

The new man looked Jack over, never moving from his spot leaned against his car. “He will.” He reached into his rolled down window and pulled out a manilla folder, tossing it to the driver.

Jack felt like his skull had been cracked open and ice cold water was poured over his skeleton as he realized what was going on. It was a trade. A deal. A traffik. Is that what it’s called? He was being sold like an animal.

The driver took a peak in the envelope, nodding satisfactorily. “Will you be needing anything else from me?”

“Not at all.”

“Pleasure doing business then.” The driver turned to leave but Jack threw himself at his feet suddenly, wrapping his arms around his legs.

“No!” he cried, desperate to not be taken even further from home.

Even though he’d already been passed through two people and driven who the hell knows where, as soon as he got in that man’s car it was final. No more traveling. He was going home with this guy. How would he call for help then? How would he get away? He was taken and now being sold to -- to who?! Maybe he really will be raped. Or experimented on or cut up and sold for parts or--

“No please!” he begged. “Don’t, please I wanna go home! I wanna go home!”

Hands gripped his waist and he tried like hell to kick out, to fight back. He even tried to bite at him, but only got open air. Jack was just too frail at the moment. There was no way he stood a chance against this strong stranger.

The trunk opened and Jack threw his feet up, attempting to stop himself from getting in, panic enveloping him once again. “No! Don’t make me get in there! I won’t be able to breathe!”

His knees were kicked in and he fell right in, arms bound uselessly.

“Feel free to scream as much as you like,” the new man said as he slammed the door shut.

Jack did. He screamed and kicked so much that he did run out of air and passed out. When he woke, the trunk was open again, cool night air filling his lungs and making him cough.

The man threw a bag over his head before roughly taking him by the arm and dragging him out of the trunk. He ignored all of Jack’s tearfilled demands to be let go immediately.

“Some stairs now. I recommend you tread lightly if you don’t want to be thrown down.”

He did, taking shallow breaths like he would be able to hear the stairs better if he did. The bag was taken off of him after another short walk at the bottom, once he was pushed to his knees.

“You can call me Mr. Reeder,” the man said, smiling down at him. “And this is your new home.”

--

That first night was one of the hardest. Jack had to try to go to sleep himself for the first time, with no drugs or panic to aid him. The only thing he knew to compare what he was feeling to was when he went to summer camp when he was 10. First time away from his mom, like really away. He couldn’t call her when he wanted to leave, couldn’t hear her voice. It’s all encompassing, realizing that you are isolated. That you are alone in a way you never have been before.

But even at summer camp Jack knew that he was going to go home in a week. This? There’s no end to this. Jack might… die here. Alone in the basement without seeing his mom ever again…

He buried his face in his pillow and screamed and screamed. When he was too exhausted to keep going, he curled on his side and imagined he was in his mom’s bed with her by his side.

[dialovers-translations]

DIABOLIK LOVERS GRAND EDITION Sofmap Tokuten Situation CD ”Date Escapades ~ Ayato・Laito ~

Original title: デートハプニング ~ アヤト・ライト ~

Source: Diabolik Lovers GRAND EDITION Sofmap Tokuten Drama CD

Audio: Ayato / Laito

Seiyuu: Midorikawa Hikaru & Hirakawa Daisuke

Translator’s note: Who’s ready for another round of mindless date scenario fun with the Diaboys? I’m not a huge fan of the triplets (although Ayato does have his cute moments) so this doesn’t make me go uwuwu, but I’m sure all the Ayato and Laito stans out there will enjoy it! :3

Ayato’s side: Huddled Close at the Fireworks

The two of you are at a festival.

“Oi, Chichinashi! Where do you think you’re goin’? It’s this way, come on! You better follow me!”

You walk up to Ayato.

“I mean, you gotta hit up the food stalls at a festival, right? Then we can eat them while walkin’ ‘round. Come on, let’s go buy some takoyaki already!”

You walk towards the food stalls together. 

*TIMESKIP*

*Rustle rustle* 

“...Hahn...Mmh! Delicious! There’s somethin’ special ‘bout the takoyaki they serve at festivals! ...Come on, you should try some as well.”

You seem surprised. 

“Geez, don’t stand there spacin’ out. Open your mouth, come on. What’s so embarrassin’ ‘bout it?”

You explain.

“...You can’t while there’s so many other people ‘round? ...Excuse me? You’re gonna say no to my takoyaki?”

You try to make an excuse.

“Stop makin’ excuses and open your damn mouth already!”

*Rustle* 

“And? It’s good, isn’t it?”

You nod.

“Geez. You should have just tried some right away. Don’t let yourself get bothered by the crowd.”

*Rustle*

“ーー My cravin’ hasn’t been satisfied yet. ...Oh! There’s another takoyaki vendor over there! Oi, Chichinashi! Snap out of it! Let’s go hit up the next place!”

You tug onto his arm.

*Rustle*

“Hm? What’s wrong, Chichinashi? Don’t pull onto my arm all of a sudden. “

You tell him that you want to watch the fireworks. 

“Fireworks...? What’s the issue with that?”

You explain.

“A secret spot with a great view? You know a place like that?”

You nod.

“Well, I honestly don’t care where we watch the fireworks. But I guess this quiet place you mentioned wouldn’t be bad to enjoy my takoyaki in peace. I’ll go buy some from that vendor over there before we head over there.”

Ayato walks away.

*TIMESKIP*

The two of you are on your way to the secret spot to watch the fireworks.

“Hey, Chichinashi. Are you sure we’re goin’ the right way? There’s no lights or anythin’. I know you said not many people know ‘bout this place, but there’s literally not a single other person ‘round.”

You insist that it’s the right way.

“...We’re almost there, you say? Are you sure?”

You speed up.

“...Ah! Hey! Don’t run in the dark! ーー Hey, you little! Don’t try and get ahead of me!”

You trip and fall. 

*Thud* 

“...? ーー Oi!”

Ayato runs up to you.

“...What are you doin’? ...Geez. You really smacked right ‘gainst the ground, didn’t you?”

You toughen it out.

“It hurts but you’re fine? You don’t look ‘fine’ to me at all...”

*Rustle*

“Oi...Hold this for a sec.”

Ayato hands you the bag with takoyaki before lifting you into his arms. 

*Rustle* 

“Don’t thrash ‘bout, idiot! You really think you can walk in your current condition!? ーー Anyway, tell me where to go. You know the way, right? If you want to get there before the fireworks are over. Don’t even think ‘bout droppin’ my takoyaki though!"

He carries you to the secret spot.

“Oi, why do you keep tryin’ to hide your face? Don’t tell me...Bein’ carried like this makes you embarrassed? Hehe...Interestin’. Come on, move those hands and give me a good look at your expression. If you don’t do as I say, I’ll immediatelyーー”

You tell him you’ve arrived at your desination. 

“...Wait, haah? We’re here? Is this the hotspot you were talkin’ of?”

The fireworks go off in the distance.

“Wow, amazin’...! You can see the fireworks hella clear from here!”

You nod.

“Heehー It’s true there’s no other people either. I’m honestly surprised you knew ‘bout this location. I have to give you credits for once.”

You ask Ayato to put you down.

“Put you down...? Don’t tell me what to do. I will do what I want, so I’m not putting you down.”

*Rustle rustle*

“Ah, hey! Don’t make a fuss! If you won’t calm down, I’m gonna suck your blood and kiss you right here, right now, Chichinashi!”

You stop struggling.

“What’s that? You’re done fightin’ back already?”

You change your mind.

“Ah? You’d rather stay like this? Hehe, then maybe you should have behaved from the start. ーー Anyway, Chichinashi. Feed me some of that takoyaki already.”

You tilt your head to the side.

“Don’t tell me you forgot ‘bout the plastic bag in your hand?”

*Rustle*

“Come on. My hands are tied right now. You said you’d do as I say, don’t forget ‘bout that.”

ーー THE END ーー

Laito’s side: Rainy Date

Laito approaches you.

“...Hey there, Bitch-chan~ If you’ve got nothing better to do, how about the two of us head outside for a bit?”

You ask him why.

“Oh come on! I’m asking you out! On a date! ...So, what do you say?”

You nod.

“Okay! Let’s not waste any more time then! We don’t go on dates every day, so make sure to change into your cutest outfit, okay~?”

*TIMESKIP*

The two of you are walking in town.

“I’m so happy to be able to head out with you at night, nfu~ Want to hold hands, perhaps? With our fingers intertwined, of course! (1) Nfu...~”

*Rustle*

“Well then...I just felt like taking you out on a date, but I don’t have a specific location in mind or anything. Where shall we go?”

You ask if you can make a suggestion too. 

“Sure! We can hit up all the places you want! ...Not for free, of course~”

You complain.

“Eeh~? Isn’t that only obvious? I’m granting your wish, so it only makes sense you do the same for me, right? For example...Letting me suck your blood, okay~?”

It starts raining.

*Drip drip*

“...Huh? Rain? It started pouring out of nowhere...Why don’t we go take shelter at the park over there? We’re going to have to run a bit, but don’t let go of my hand, okay?”

The two of you run towards the park.

*TIMESKIP*

“Ah-aahー We’re pretty soaked. ...Nfu~ But I suppose that isn’t entirely a bad thing. You’re looking really hot right now after all.”

*Rustle*

“I mean, look. You’re wearing white, so you can see the lines of your underwear through the wet fabric.”

You try to get away from him.

*Rustle rustle*

“Eeh~? Why are you scooting away? It’s just the two of us, so why get all embarrassed? It kind of hurts to see you get away from me like that. ...Come on, the roof doesn’t stretch all the way to the corner of the bench so you’ll get wet if you sit there. Scoot over, okay?”

You hesitate. 

“No need to be so guarded. It’s kind of lonely to sit apart like this when we’re supposed to be out on a date, don’t you think?” 

*Rustle*

“Hm...All I wanted was to have some quality time with you. ...I wonder if you no longer like me or something?”

You slowly move closer.

“Nfu~ ...Gotcha!”

Laito wraps his arms around you. 

*Rustle* 

“Hehe...You really are so adorably naive. All it takes is a little acting to fool you.”

*Rustle rustle*

“Oh? Seems like someone still doesn’t it, trying to escape my grip like that. Let me tell you, I don’t plan on letting you go in a million years. ...There’s something incredibly erotic about being soaked by the rain, don’t you agree? Whether it’s your damp hair sticking to your nape, or your skin vaguely visible through your clothes...It’s all so lewd.”

*Rustle*

“Just by running my fingers across like this...Nfu~ Your body reacts naturally. How cute~”

*Rustle* 

“I wonder if you’ve cooled down a little? Usually you’d feel warmer.”

You try to move away.

“Ah, you can’t, Bitch-chan. I have no body temperature to share with you or anything. But your warmth is transferring to me, so we have to stay close, or else you’ll catch a cold.”

You stop trying to get away.

“Mmh, just like that~ Now keep still, okay? ...Nfu~ I’d honestly love to stay cuddled close like this forever but...Unfortunately, it seems like the rain has lifted. I guess it was just a short shower.”

You ask if you should head home. 

“Hm? Home? Well...I guess both of us are pretty drenched, huh? But I kind of want to keep cuddling like this, honestly.”

You sneeze. 

“...Ah. You sneezed. Did you actually catch a cold? ...Oh! But if you get sick, we can play doctor without having to fake it! ...Don’t worry~ I’ll get you back in tip-top shape in no time~”

You shake your head.

“...It’d only make your temperature rise even more, you say? Oh geez, Bitch-chan~ I wonder what you’re imagining~? ...Heh. They say that one way to get rid of a cold is to give it someone else, right? So perhaps we can kiss until I catch it?”

*Rustle rustle*

“What do you say? We should test just how many kisses it’d take to get me sick~”

ーー THE END ーー

Translation notes

(1) The Japanese language has a specific word for the way couples hold hands called 恋人つなぎ or ‘koibito-tsunagi’ which literally means ‘lovers’ connection’. 

[jtl07]

okay here's an idea from another conversation with @daskum (lol sorry i keep pinging you but i need to give credit where credit's due!) where we were talking about crosstraining and trying out different martial arts. so like, the only time i've seen this kinda done is in college where there was like an intramural/club fair and what if there's a section/space just for martial arts ish stuff?

[edit: putting this under the cut because this again got long; cw: passing mention of harassment/assault]

Ava of course is one of the attendees and she's awe-struck by everything. there's also a little stage - maybe this is idk in a gym? outside? let's be in a gym kind of space because shade is important lol - where each club does a little demo at like every half hour or something and Ava's been asking question to one of the folks coordinating - Camila, who's there with a couple friends, standing nearby. and during a demo, there's idk a throw or pin - ah maybe a flying triangle - and Ava's like "that's hot" which makes one of Camila's friends bristles.

before Cam can say anything, the friend, with the most proper of accents and steel in her voice, "if you want to ogle people, there are different venues for that" and walks away, leaving Ava confused.

and Mary - one of Cam's other friends - speaks up: "she's right you know," and has this look on her face that's like, if you're gonna keep that up, you better leave now.

but that's not what Ava meant! which she says, very emphatically, and explains also how she couldn't move before and it's just fucking cool how they can do shit like that.

"look i get it," Mary says grudgingly, "but you gotta understand: some people fight because they couldn't before, because they've survived things that they shouldn't have had to go through."

"like being ogled," Ava says, realizing.

Mary breathes. "and sometimes worse," she says, and it's matter-of-fact and Ava looks around and it changes her view a bit. yeah these are badass people, and yeah they're sexy af but there's also more to it than that. there's pain they've lived through, fought through, fighting through now and it's just - it makes Ava feel a whole lot.

Mary seems to notice this and she takes Ava over to her club stall/table or whatever, which is boxing and has her meet a couple of the members, even learn how to do the proper stance, throw a jab, etc.

at one point, the aikido club takes up the stage and the bristly one - Beatrice, Mary supplies - is leading the demo. in a word, Ava is mesmerized: the energy, the flow, the utter calm as attacker after attacker is felled, Beatrice at the center, unruffled, unburdened, completely in control but in a way that ensures that everyone is safe.

Ava tries as many clubs as she can - she eventually makes her way to the aikido stall and follows along to the technique as best she can, earnest and joyful and grateful to have the chance to learn. at the end of the session, she approaches Beatrice who, to Ava's relief, turns to face her without any malice, just carefully neutral.

and Ava does her best to apologize, that when she said that, she was talking more about the fluidity and strength rather than the uh, the positioning and Beatrice gives her own apology, acknowledges that it wasn't meant for her to hear and it's not fair to judge someone else's thoughts. "it was quite impressive," Beatrice says and Ava grins.

"not as impressive as your demo. i mean, talk about incredible." Ava has to force herself to stop talking though she does catch how Beatrice ducks her head a bit, shy.

"i'm glad it was entertaining," is all Beatrice says. she glances around and nods towards the different stalls. "did you find any of the clubs worth signing up for?"

Ava nods emphatically, rattles off the ones that she's signed up for then notices Bea's face. "you think that's too much" and Bea's like, no, no, she crosstrains as well, which makes Ava gape. "i bet you can do all the demos, huh"

and Mary comes up from behind them and says with a grin, "she did one year when a bunch of us got sick."

and of course Ava's like, "Beatrice is a badass!" which makes Mary glare at her, and is like, well what about us, hm? and Ava says something cheeky like oh you're badass number 2, which sets Mary off after her, the two of them running through the space like children as Beatrice sighs and Cam cheers them on.

[keegansakura]

A bit of context for the followers who don't interact with me on the constant: for a couple of years now I have been working with @umbraproductions112 on a project in a game known as Rec Room related to the Backrooms. If you're interested the game is an ongoing WIP and is known as The Backrooms: Silent Screams. This sort of.. series(?) takes place in the world of the game. It may not follow all of the same characters but you may recognize a few if you play the game and read this.

Unfortunately now I gotta bring up this lovely word..

DISCLAIMER: The Backrooms Silent Screams uses custom takes on entities and features entities that you will not find on any Backrooms related wiki, fandom or otherwise. This story will feature uncomfortable topics that will be mentioned in the trigger warnings section at the top of each bit. Please keep in mind that you the reader are responsible for the content you consume. If I do something stupid please call my ass out on it so it can be fixed-

Also. I suck at editing. So formatting may be a bit wonky! ..it'll get better over time- ..I think. Final words before I get into the actual opening into this: if you want to be added to the tags, leave a comment and I will try to remember to tag you in this.

So enough stalling. Enjoy and I apologize for any editing mistakes as currently I AM POSTING THESE FROM MY PHONE!

Rumors speak of a train of some sort that can be found through some abandoned tunnels at off hours of the night. Some claim that moths or other nightly creatures had led them to it, others just felt compelled to follow a mostly overgrown trail. Either way you find yourself here at the train which has come to a stop. It looked like something from an old film, the kind of train you'd expect a murder mystery to take place on, or at least that seems to be the point. As you stand there, you notice a strange goat-like creature boarding the train carrying a box of ..something. Being further curious, you follow their lead and board the train.

The interior of the train car in question was Victorian in design. It was quiet, except for the hum of the engine andsome quiet music in the background. There was talking from further in, most likely the next car over. There were shelves lined with books along with various canvases, paints, and other art supplies. A table with a half finished game of chess and some chairs sat near the window. Judging by the dust covering the board and chess pieces, it had been left untouched for quite some time. A couch sat across from the table, and a mess of blankets and cushions like someone had sat there recently to read. There was a small bar of sorts not far from the couch, on it sat three drinks that seemed to have been placed there recently. Whoever was there seemed to be expecting guests.

As you approach the door, you catch part of the conversation. Two people, one sounding a bit more rough than the other, yet still managing to sound polite.

“It's not much..” said the first voice. “But I figured you'd like to go over some of this. ..maybe even transcribe some of the audio recordings.. I know you've been itching for a new project of late.”

They sounded almost excited to be sharing this.

“You know me too well, Karma.” came the second voice, which was softer than the first and sounded amused. “It'll take me some time to get through this- oh? And there's artwork too.. interesting work- but I'll be more than happy to do so. Consider this an exception to how I handle wanderer tales.”

The sound of footsteps was approaching the door just as you reached it.

“Thanks! Just keep me posted if you find anything noteworthy!-” answered the first voice as they opened the door. You are met with the strange goat-like creature who got on initially. They had dappled gray what you assumed to be skin, with black hair with bright green tips and even brighter green eyes to match as they stared utterly confused by your presence. The shirt and jacket combination they were wearing was not in good shape, part of the sleeve had a piece torn and the shirt clearly had seen better days. The worn shirt revealed nasty scars across the creature's chest. The only thing of note about the jacket were two very worn red stripes on the sleeves, one of which had writing on it that read: “Outpost 36”. Not even the jeans were spared; it honestly looked like they got into a fight or two on the way to the train. Behind them though stood a slightly taller figure that looked like some sort of moth-like fae, dressed almost like some sort of magician with an umbrella hooked over one arm. “uh- hey Sakurai...you expecting anyone else?” said the goat looking confused. The moth nodded. “I could use the company as I look through these.” they said, smiling as they motioned you inside the next car. “Come on! Let's look at this together and see what stories we can uncover.”

[swagtastic-bougie-pompadour]

TGIF, everyone, am I right or am I right! It's that time of the week. It's time for another:

CLIVE UPDATE

Brought to you by... the Book Orthworms! Earth Eat your way through their newest pick, "I Got Transported into Medieval Times With Nothing But My Magikarp!?" for next week's meeting!

Today's Pride Feature--you almost certainly know her, maybe you've even battled her--our student council president, miss Champion Nemona herself!

What is "popping", Nemona? Huh? Sorry, Claaaaaa--Clive, did you mean that as an actual question, or is that some kinda weird saludo? A greeting. Supposedly. Let's start over. ¿Cómo estás? Good! Real good! After all, I fiiiinally got Penny to agree to a battle with me! I can't stop thinking of what to use against her Sylveon! What if it has Pixilate? Should I bring Orthworm then? Or what if she uses a Wish-pass Vaporeon? Do I need to bring a stall breaker? Or, or-- Ahem. I see your passion for battle is as strong as always. It's certainly been an inspiration to all of us--thanks to you, the Academy Ace Tournament is a regular occurrence now! Aw, thanks Director. You know I'm always down for a tournament! Anyways, don't you have some fancy questions to throw at me? ...It's Clive. But yes. First up: What does Pride mean to you? Ooh, that's a good one. For me, you know... romance was never something on my brain, right? All those jokes about "Oh, you know, girls only think about one thing" you always hear around... most of the time my first thought to that would be, "Duh! Pokemon battles!" I mean, it's not like I really got what everyone was so hyped about anyways... like, sure, there are people who are pretty, or cool, but to want to like... kiss them because of that? It's so weird! So I guess to me Pride is like... accepting that I can be different from others? And find them as weird as they find me! So then... I guess you could say your true amor is battling? Wellllll, ah... I don't really know! You know what they say about rivalries, after all... It's like the more I get to know them, the more my heart squeezes a little every time I talk to them! But whatever mi tesoro is, there's gotta be battling involved! *gasp* What if I conveyed those feelings... through a battle?! This is genius! Obviously my ace has to be tera-fairy, but from there... maybe if I found a way to train up a Flapple... Nemona... Nemona? Ah, I think she's lost in thought again... Thank you for reading, everyone! Stay tuned for Monday's edition of Clive Update!

[hellhound5925]

Cyare Verd *Beloved Warrior* Bad Batch Edition

Previous Chapter

Plan 99 Pt. 2

We make our way down the street with a squad of about 15 commandos. I look around, trying to avoid Hunters gaze and find a way to escape. Pink blaster bolts catch my attention. The whole group stops and commandos take up a defensive position. Looking up, I see Omega on a balcony, drawing her bow. "Lower your weapons" Hemlock tells his squad before turning back to her. "Hello, Omega. We were just talking about you." "Let. Them. Go." Venom dripping from her words. "Omega, Run!" Hunter yells. One of the commandos puts him in a choke hold to quiet him. I move to his aid but and struck to my knees by another. "I won't let them take you!" She yells. "How about an exchange?" Hemlock proposes. "Don't make a deal with him!" I yell. He continues "If you come with me, your friends will live." "I don't believe you." "I did not come here for them Omega. I came to return you to Nala Se. She needs your help." "He's lying! They killed the Kaminoans!" Hunter yells. "Incorrect. Nala Se is alive and well cared for. As you will be." "I'm not going with you!" "He's stalling" I conclude. Hunter looks up at the roof above where shes at "Omega! Look out!" He yells just as a commando jumps down and stuns her. I'm beyond mad now, "You hurt her I'll personally see to it, that it's the last thing you do!" He turns to me "You've got spark...I like that..." He turns to his commandos "Scour the city. When you find the third clone, send them back to Eriadu. Governor Tarkin wishes to question you personally." He points to me "But her....send her to Nala Se." They split off taking me to a separate ship. I glance over at Hunter who isn't taking his eyes off me. Tears stream down my face and I mouth "Ni ceta (I'm sorry)" to him. That scared look in his eye coming back.

Just as our ship is about to take off, a commando carrying Omega along with 4 others enter. Omega is still unconscious. As the doors close I hear blaster fire in the background. "Get us off world now!" Hemlock yells to the pilot. The commando places Omega down next to me. After a few moments she comes to and looks around. Seeing me shes confused "What are you doing here? I thought they were only after me?" A smirk grows on Hemlocks face, making me want to kill him there. "Go a head...tell her why you're here." Looking down at the floor I sigh but choose to stay quiet. Hemlock scoffs, "I take it Hunter's the father?" "They aren't my real parents..." He scoffs again. I slowly meet Omega's gaze, "I'm pregnant..." "And there it is." She doesn't say anything but just stares at me. I can't look at her anymore and opt to stare at the floor. I feel ashamed of myself...If I hadn't said anything I likely wouldn't be here right now....but on the flip side...Omega would be alone.

————

We are escorted to a drop ship where we hear blaster fire in the distance. Just then a walker comes around the corner shooting stormtroopers. "Gotta be Echo" I say kicking the commando behind me. Wrecker frees himself before freeing me and taking out the remaining commandos. Another walker comes into view and shoots down the one we assume to be Echo. Echo and AZ come out of the top and rejoin us. He looks between the two of us confused "Where's Omega and Raven?" "That Imperial took them" Wrecker says through gritted teeth. My blood boils "It was Hemlock. We've gotta stop his shuttle from leaving."

Attempting to make our way through the streets, we are cut off by squads of commandos. I look up, eyeing a walk way and motion for them to follow. We head up the side of the shot down walker and climb up the building to the walk way. Just as we make it to the end, Hemlock's shuttle takes off. Feeling so defeated I just stare. "Hunter, we need to go" Echo refocuses us. "Get to the Marauder" I order, snapping out of it and we all run as fast as we can. When we reach the Marauder, I lower the ramp "Go! Go!" I'm able to take our a few more commandos before Echo gets us off world.

I head to the cockpit, Echo is flying the ship, both Echo and Wrecker have solemn expressions. "There was no way to track Hemlocks ship..." Echo starts. Wrecker eyes me and I take a deep breath to steady myself "We are going to get them back....and we don't stop searching until we do." "So, what's the plan then?" Wrecker asks still eyeing me. "Echo, we need to get into contact with Rex. He's gotta have someone who knows something." "They're working out of a small base I can get us to in the meantime but I'm not sure if we will be able to reach him." "Make it happen" I snap at him. Echo and Wrecker look at one another and I rub my forehead - the events of the day replaying over in my head...the commando shoves her to the ground..."Stop! I'm pregnant..." my blaster falls out of my hands and I hit my knees. As if we haven't lost enough...Hemlock almost looks thrilled to hear that. Watching him kneel beside her stirs something inside me that kinda scares me..."Hunter?" Echo and Wrecker are both starting at me. "I get why they took Omega. But why Raven?" Echo asks confused. Wrecker glances at me and I sigh, looking at the floor. "She's pregnant..." I slowly lift my head and neither of them say anything. Feeling a tear slide down my cheek I excuse myself.

————

Nothing was said the rest of the ride there...I feel the ship come to a stop before I'm being hauled to my feet. Exiting the ship, I glance around, making mental note of everything I see. There's got to be some way out of here. We are escorted by a group of commandos to another small group that joined us on the landing pad. A Kaminoan with them... Hemlock is the first to speak, "Have Emerie see to her injuries and then have this one looked over...I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by what you find." Omega glances at me with a sad expression. "Yes, Doctor" a female Scientist motions for us to follow. We both hesitate. Omega looks at the Kaminoan who almost looks sad, "Why did they bring me here?" She asks but doesn't get a response. We are both then shoved forward by the group of commandos.

The female scientist leads us into the medical bay and leaves to two of us with a couple commandos. The room is large and there are clones on tables everywhere. None of them seem to be awake. "Crosshair!" I hear Omega run off behind me. Turning I see a clone that looks a little different from the rest, with a tattoo over one eye like a Crosshair on a scope. I walk over and study his face, "I guess we found him." Omega tried to shake him awake "Crosshair! Crosshair!" Just then the scientist comes back in the room "You must be Omega and Raven." I clench my fist. Omega spins around "What did you do to Crosshair?" "He's recovering. I tried to warn him what would happen if he did not cooperate with the doctor." "I want to talk to Nala Se" Omega demands. The scientist isn't phased, 'Ironic. You trust the Kaminoan, but not me." "I don't know you." "No? You might know me better than you think. We're sisters, Omega." My blood boils at her words, I take a swing at her and make contact with one side of her face. Both commandos at the door move towards us but the scientist stops them with a hand gesture. She looks to me "I was told you have something to offer us. It would be wise not to act in such a way that they make your stay here less than desirable." "It already is" I sass. She motions for the commandos and gestures towards Omega, "Take her to Emerie. I'm going to examine this one myself." They approach to take Omega away and she protests. One of the commandos grabs her by the wrist and I jump into action. I kick the commandos arm at the elbow and he yelps in pain, letting go of her. She is just about to run when the other commando stuns her and then me.

————Warning: Mention of needles and medical equipment————

I wake up with a bright light in my face. Trying to turn my head away, I try to raise one of my arms to shield my face but realize I can't. Once my eyes adjust, I get a good look around and notice I'm strapped to a table. "It didn't have to be this way..." Hemlocks voice comes from just out of where I can't see. "Where's Omega?" "She's fine. Being well taken care of, of course. She's of great use to us." I scoff "That's great but when you're done with us, you'll what?" I hear shoes kicking on the floor and Hemlock comes into view standing next to me "I guess we will just have to see, now won't we." He nods at someone I can't see and the scientist comes into view with a droid, a nice bruise forming on her cheek bone. She motions to the droid and it scans my body. I close my eyes hoping that AZ was wrong. The droid makes beeping noises like its computing data. "According to my scan, it would appear that the subject is pregnant." The droid pricks my finger, catching me by surprise, "There is a high amount of human chorionic gonadotrophin or HCG in her blood which is consistent with my findings." Hot tears stream down the sides of my face...Maker why... "Why is this of use to us?" The scientist asks. I can hear the smirk on Hemlock's face, "the father...is a clone...the one named 'Hunter' to be exact." At the mention of his name I get angry, "I swear on my ancestors the moment I get out of here you will all be dead." Hemlock laughs "I highly doubt you'll be getting out of here. Take her to a room." I feel something cold prick my arm and everything goes black.

I wake up with a gasp, sitting up. Rubbing my wrists that are now free, I get a good look around the room. It's cold and grey...very grey...a bed - which I'm sitting on - toilet, shower, sink, and small table with a chair. Jumping up, I head towards the door and try to open it - of course its locked what was I thinking... "Omega? Omega! Are you out there? Can you hear me?" There a bang on the door that startles me and I step back. "Quiet in there" a gruff male voice responds. Great I've got my own personal guards.... "Where's Omega? I need to know she's okay!" No response. I sigh in frustration and a string of curses in Mando'a leave my mouth.

I spend the next few hours - or what feels like hours - looking around the room for a way out. So far, theres a few different vents coming to and from this room...but...they're so small I'm not even sure Omega could fit through them. I flop on the bed and stare at the ceiling thinking through my options. I can wait for the door to open but then what? This place is swarming with stormtroopers. So even if I did get out I'd be caught and dragged back here. I also don't know my way around...But I'd bet Crosshair does....If he's even alright.... Pounding on my door pulls me from my thoughts. I sit up, not knowing what to prepare myself for. The door flings open and a droid brings a tray of food in, sets it on the table and turns to leave. I watch in silence working through how I could get out if this happens again. When the door closes I get up and explore the tray left behind. It doesn't look half bad - whatever it is - but I'm in no mood to eat. I just want to get Omega and I out of here and get back to Hunter. Osik (shit)...Hunter...he's gotta be so confused...he probably thinks I lied to him...that I knew the whole time and didn't tell him...AZ is with them right? He'll tell him I didn't know...I hope...I sit myself in the corner of the room on the floor and pull my knees to my chest. I wonder how they're holding up...after Tech and after the Empire dragging Omega and I away....Tech...I wonder what he would be thinking right now...The lights suddenly go dark and a dim red comes on. Must be it's night? It's not like I have a window...getting up, I grab the blankets from the bed and head back to my corner, shivering. I don't plan on sleeping in the event I miss something but I need to stay warm. I need to stay alive...

Keeping myself awake for that long was no easy task. Especially with how exhausted I am both mentally and physically. The red light goes off and the regular white overhead lights come on. My eyes take a few moments to adjust before I can see anything. Shortly after, theres a pounding on my door and the same droid enters with another tray. "You should eat." "Not hungry." "You might not be but your body needs the nutrients." I don't say anything but just stare at it. "They will be sending for you shortly so I'd suggest being cooperative." I scoff and the droid leaves. My stomach growls and I sigh, "ugh fine..." the minute I finish the bread I was given my stomach turns. "Really..." Seconds later I find myself over the toilet throwing up said piece of bread. Theres a pounding in the door and it opens. The scientist and four commandos come in. "I can give you something for nausea." "I'll pass thanks." She comes over and crouches down next to me "Look, I'm on your side here. I don't want you or your child dead. I'm just here to do my job." "Great I feel so much better already." She sighs and stands up nodding to the commandos. They pull me to my feet and restrain my hands behind my back before dragging me out the door.

This time I'm dragged into probably the same room as yesterday but this time I'm awake to remember it. I'm walked over to the table and the commandos undo my restrains to then strap me to the table - giving me no room to try to fight back. Once I'm strapped to the table I look up and see a large set of windows and behind those windows is another lab but smaller than the one I'm in. In that lab is Omega and Nala Se. Omega comes over to the window and pounds on it saying something I can't understand. "Omega!" I yell. The windows go dark and I can no longer see through them. "Two way glass. They can see us, but we can't see them...now lets get to business shall we?" Hemlock is smirking over top of me.

Next Chapter

[screechthemighty]

Second fic update for today, AKA proof that I haven't forgotten about my The Batman fic! AO3 link will be in a reblog but here's the (shorter but with cameos) chapter below!

a symbol of hope - chapter three

November 22:

“You asked him for an interview?!”

“Lois…” Clark pointed at the woman on the other end of the video call. “Lois Lane, you look me in the eyes and tell me you wouldn’t have done the same thing.”

“Of course I would’ve, but this is different!”

“How? How is it any different?”

“Have you even been around a gun before?”

“I’m from rural Kansas!” Though, to be fair, Clark understood the misconception. He knew he had the aura of someone who’d only seen guns on TV. “Lois, I promise you, I’m fine. Jimmy, tell her I’m fine.”

“He’s fine,” Jimmy called from where he was editing photos. “He’s actually a little too fine. It’s freaking me out.”

Clark groaned. “Thank you, James.”

Lois laughed, then suddenly got serious again. “But seriously, I’m glad you’re okay,” she said. “I know Gotham is rough, but I wasn’t expecting one of you to get into a hostage situation.”

Clark’s brain stalled out, just long enough to make things awkward. Say something. Say something!! “Thanks,” he said finally. “I mean…if I’m being honest, I’m more scared of how my mom is gonna react than I was of the gunman…”

Talking too much, stop now!

“Oh, you should definitely be worried about your mom,” Lois said. “I’m pretty sure the incident made national news.”

Well, on the plus side, Clark wasn’t drowning in his crush on Lois anymore. On the other hand, he was now drowning in dread that his parents would be hearing about this from the national news. “...I wasn’t, uh…in any of the video footage, was I?”

His personal phone rang. The caller ID said Home. At this time of day, it would probably be… “That her?” Lois guessed.

“...yeah, I’ve gotta go,” Clark said. “I’ll call you if I’m not being dragged onto a plane back to Kansas.”

“Tell her I said ‘hi.’”

“Will do. ‘Bye, Lois.” Clark ended the video call and answered his phone. “Hi, Ma…”

“What happened?! Are you okay?”

Whelp. He must’ve been in the video footage, then. “I’m fine, nothing happened.” There was a lot of weight to the word nothing. He might not have been at risk of being shot, but there were many, many ways that encounter could have ended badly. He knew it. His mother definitely knew it. “I met the Batman, though!”

“You asked him for an interview, didn’t you?”

“I…yeah.”

“And? Did you get an interview with the Batman?”

“No,” he said. “Well, I mean, he didn’t say no, but he did look at me like I had two heads, so I’m taking that as a no.”

His work phone buzzed again. Clark glanced at it. Unfamiliar number, but it was a Gotham area code. No way. “Sorry, can you hold on a second? Work…” It felt awful putting his own mother on hold to check his work phone, but such was adult life. And if this was who he hoped it was, he was sure she’d understand.

“Clark Kent, Daily Planet,” Clark said.

“Mr. Kent, this is Lieutenant Gordon of the Gotham Police Department.”

Clark sat up straight, only barely catching his personal phone before it was knocked off the bed. “Uh, good evening, Lieutenant. How can I help you?”

“I was hoping to speak to you about earlier. Do you have any time?”

“Give me half an hour and I’m all yours.” Clark’s mind was racing. He’d already wrapped up the Wayne story, so if he just finished transcribing that recording, he could make it before it got too dark. “Do you want me to meet you at the station?”

“Actually, I was thinking somewhere a little more private.”

Oh. So it was going to be like that. Something told Clark this wouldn’t just be a one on one meeting with the Lieutenant.

Fine by me. He’d just have to resist the urge to ask for another interview. He had a feeling the answer would be the same.

.

“The doctors are still trying to determine if the implant can be removed safely.” Gordon stared out over the city. Fog was starting to settle in. Forecast called for more rain, possibly a wintry mix. Wouldn’t be long before it was entirely snow.”Anything on your end?”

“Everything I’ve found is theoretical. One device started animal trials last year, but nothing since.” This wouldn’t stop some people, of course, but it made investigation more difficult. “I'll keep digging.”

Gordon sighed heavily and reached into his pockets. “You know, I was really hoping the insane riddle cult leader would be the worst of it.” He pulled out a box of cigarettes. “Do not tell my wife.”

I’ve never met your wife, the Batman thought, but no. Gordon was just making small talk. It was a thing people said to acknowledge they shouldn’t be doing something. The Batman hummed in response before asking, “How’s your daughter?”

The flash of a lighter illuminated Gordon’s face, revealing a less exhausted expression. “Barb’s doing good,” he said. “She’s been dismantling VCRs lately. She says ‘hi.’”

Barbara Gordon always said “hi.” She’d stopped sending crayon drawings along with her father, but she’d never stopped saying “hi.” The Batman had only seen her in glimpses since that night–Gordon had done her best to keep her out of the spotlight–but she seemed to be doing well.

He was glad.

The sound of an elevator drew him from his thoughts. It came to a stop at the top of the roof; Clark Kent stepped out, highly visible in his red windbreaker. His eyes darted from Gordon to the Batman and then out over the city. “Wow,” he said. “That’s a view.”

“Better when it’s not so miserable.” Gordon stepped forward to shake Clark Kent’s hand. “Thanks for coming on such short notice.”

“No problem. Is Ben all right?”

“Comfortable and stabilizing. Very apologetic about you.”

Clark laughed a bit awkwardly. “Eh, I’m forgiving. Uhm.” He glanced towards the Batman, then held out a package to Gordon when the Batman didn’t approach. “Copies of the conversation, transcripts, uhm, everything I could remember. I wanted to look into what he was saying with brain implants, but…”

“We have people looking into that. You’ve done enough.” Gordon was polite, but the Batman had heard that tone before. It usually meant don’t get involved more. “You still have my number if anything comes up.”

“Right. Yeah, of course.” Again, Clark Kent’s eyes darted to the Batman. His stare lingered, calculating. “...okay, I’m sorry, one question. Completely off the record, just one question. If you don’t mind, uh, sir.”

The Batman gritted his teeth. He’d never been interviewed when he was like this. He made a point of avoiding it. Still, the interview with Clark Kent hadn’t been…horrible. Maybe he could learn something about the man. “What?”

Kent’s eyes widened, but the question came quickly. “Why start? I mean…” He gestured out over the city. “You’ve been doing this for…two years, if I’m not mistaken, but why did you decide to start at all?”

The Batman had heard that question many times. Gordon had even asked him once. “The city needed help,” the Batman said. It was a simple answer in his mind. “I could provide that help.”

“Right, I mean…fair, but why this kind of help? You’re doing a lot more than the average citizen would. How do you make that kind of decision?”

His tone was…interesting. Not the tone he’d used during the Wayne interview. What was that? “You said one question,” the Batman pointed out.

Kent hesitated, then smiled. “...guess I did, huh?” He blinked and looked up. “Rain again?”

“Always,” Gordon grumbled. He passed the envelope off to the Batman. “Well, thank you again, Mr. Kent. I’ll see you out.”

“Thank you, sir.” Kent offered the Batman a wave. “You have a good night.”

Good probably wasn’t going to be the word for it, but the Batman nodded anyway. He waited until the elevator had descended before checking the envelope’s contents. A jump drive and a carefully typed manuscript. Likely nothing new, but it could still be something.

Even if it wasn’t, the meeting had confirmed something very important: Clark Kent wasn’t going to let this go. The look on his face, the fact that he had expressed so much interest at all, confirmed that. Could be a liability.

Could be an asset.

.

Lieutenant Gordon looked like a man ripped right out of the pages of a crime novel. It didn’t exactly make for great small talk, but…Clark had to ask. He had to know.

“...so…”

“You want to know why an established police lieutenant is working with the Batman.”

Well, that made things easier, sort of. “Actually, yes,” Clark admitted. “I’m not criticizing you for it, it’s just…he is a vigilante. I think most would consider it a career risk.”

Gordon grunted. He gave Clark a long look, like he was trying to pick him apart. “You want the on the record answer or the off the record one?”

“Can I have both?”

“On the record, if we can’t stop him, we can at least keep an eye on him, and I’m the only one he puts up with. Off the record…”

The elevator came to a stop. Gordon didn’t say anything as they got off. Clark was worried for a moment that he’d changed his mind, but Gordon kept talking: “You hear about our clown incident a year ago?”

He had, actually. “Crime spree by a guy calling himself the Joker. Yeah, I heard. The Batman brought him in, right?”

“Yeah.” Gordon surveyed the street, eyes sharp, looking for danger. “We weren’t so close back then. He was doing his thing, we were doing ours, and it was causing a lot of aggravation higher-up. Especially since the Joker seemed to have a thing for him.” He scoffed. “But we kept trying. Thought we had the sick bastard cornered at one point, but he managed to get away, hijacked a car. It…” He stopped, took a deep breath. “My daughter was in that car.”

Clark felt his heart sink at those words, at the way they were said. Gordon did an admirable job holding it together, but some of the pain still bled through. Clark wasn’t sure if he should offer condolences or not, and he didn’t get the chance to try. Gordon pressed on: “The Batman joined the pursuit. Joker crashed the car, managed to get out without getting injured, fled the scene. He could’ve gone after him, I know a lot of guys would’ve, but he didn’t. He got Barbara out and stayed with her until we got there. Looked me dead in the eyes and promised me that son of a bitch wouldn’t get away with it.” Another huff, this one amused. “He had him in our custody two days later.”

Noted: do not piss off the Batman. “Is your daughter…?”

“She lived. Spent a lot of time in the hospital afterwards, still healing, really. But it would’ve been a lot worse if he hadn’t gotten her out of the car.” Gordon looked Clark in the eyes, his tone suddenly becoming very serious. “He’s a good man. One of the only people who actually gives a shit about this place and is willing to do something about it.” He broke eye contact, his shoulders slumping and his tone growing exasperated. “And if we’re gonna have to keep dealing with clowns, riddlers, and fuckin’ brain implants, might as well fight fire with fire.”

“You do seem to have some unique problems here, yeah,” Clark admitted. The kind of problems you’d need a specialist for. A specialist in a bat suit.

I wonder.

He dismissed the thought. Now wasn’t the time for his own existential crises. He had a story to investigate (while not interfering in police activity, of course, he would never). Whatever had been floating around his head ever since the arrival of the Batman could wait.

But that thought didn’t stop Clark from hesitating at the bottom of the building and glancing back up. A quick blink and a switch of vision confirmed that the Batman wasn’t up there anymore. He was off into the night, hopefully using Clark’s information for good.

Still, his presence lingered.

[wildcatofgreen]

🌻🌻🌻

new ask game send me a 🌻 and ill just tell you whatever the fuck i want

((1. after using the new post editor vs the old post editor and switching back and forth between them on my blogs, i gotta say! old post editor fucks

((though the new post editor has a TON of QoL changes that elevator to more of an equal status ((like, being able to tell when a special thing like italics starts and stops is a fucking amazing feature and i wish it was on the old post editor ((or being able to edit tags, or being able to make text BIG or BIGGER, or things like that

((but running with the old post editor for a while on the qkd blog has brought about some really funny/interesting bits!

((this gimmick is really fun. it feels like ive been running the blog for months but its only been less than one. i love that blog

((2. speaking of--if things havent been obvious so far, then lemme say it outright right now ((i am going through the entirety of poppy's story on that blog, pre-poppy to... an ending, of sorts ((which means events will just sort of happen over there, in slight congruence to when they happened in poppy. such aaaaaaaaas

((this whole thing! in fact, it's happening in a thread right now~.

((at the end of arcs/events i plan on tagging all of the previous posts that took place in that event as like... a relevant tag, so that i might chrono them and maybe my things can be read as a sort of story. this is... going to be a pain. but! i am incredibly committed to all of this now. i am excited. things are going to fucking happen.

((uh, sorry for all the kit-blog talk. i am just kind of. really excited for that blog! i have this base guideline already set for me to follow and i get to explore how this MF goes through the entirety of what-we-know in poppy. including somee other things that are at play because of the nature of just. knowing more than my characters know

((having characters like lila and chicadino just making funni appearances this early into the story is just so much fun you dont even know.

((sidenote bonus thing but i really want chicadino to interact with @/fallen-symphony crew because like. he's a villain, with an outrageous lucky star at that. it'd be REALLY FUCKING FUN. i wanna do arthur interactions IN GENERAL, REALLY

((but alas. there is literally no conceivable way i could approach first about this without majorly breaking things and his knowledge on the world rn. his little birdy would not know about multiverse theory (yet).

((3. im thinking of like, making some slight changes on this blog? to save myself the sanity? but i dont know how. ((i aint stoppin' playing carol--i love this dumbass just as much as i love kit ((but man oh man i look at the amount of threads i have on here versus the amount i have on kit and its like

((well of course im over there more--i can actually count the things i have to do over there. and one of them finished! and another one has a finish line i can conceivably get to! cant say much for the other threads but im sure a finish line can be gotten.

((i do feel bad that activity has waned over here. again, carol has a lot of shit still happening and a lot of things i still havent properly addressed. the ideas are in my head, its just ((pen has to touch paper, y'know? that's it, that's all it is. i dont wanna take on new threads here because i get this anxiety that its just gonna stall me from actually doing things. i already have important threads that do need to get finished that i simply havent touched in like, weeks.

((maybe i just need to find these threads and hyper focus on them and then like, one or two more things. have something that can keep my sanity, well, sane. because otherwise it is going to be very hard for me to keep up things over here.

((i pray that this same issue doesnt occur on qkd. ive been thinking about implementing a thread cap of sorts, just so the overwhelming thing doesnt happen.

((still need to think about things tho. my mind is being RACKED as of current.))

[umichenginabroad]

Week 9: Easter Edition

Welcome back to my blog everyone! This week we had our IFSA version of “spring break”, which just so happened to be an extra Thursday off of school. It happens to overlap with Easter Monday so we have a solid 5 day weekend to explore! 

Bypassing Branches: Escaping Easter in Prague

I spent Thursday wandering through Prague’s many Easter markets. There’s one in nearly every main square, or náměstí, with countless stalls selling snacks, jewelry, handmade crafts, and more! For all the ladies, however, I highly recommend getting out of Prague for the actual Easter day. They’ve got this crazy tradition where guys go around with handmade willow sticks decorated with ribbons and playfully swat the girls. It's called Pomlázka, and it's said to bring beauty and youth. In return, girls are supposed to hand out homemade eggs or a shot of local spirit. I’m really not sure how great it would feel to get hit by a branch, especially as the guys get progressively drunker and more aggressive throughout the day, but I’ll respect the tradition… from a distance. 

Easter Affairs, with an Italian Flair

Thursday night I flew out to Italy for a solo trip. I landed pretty late, so I stayed in a cute hotel right next to the airport. In the morning, the nicest mother took care of me, making me breakfast + sandwiches to go and coordinating transportation to the bus stop so I could get to the city center. 

My travels throughout Italy ended up aligning perfectly with their most famous Easter traditions! Every Good Friday in Rome, the Pope leads a torchlight procession between the Colosseum and Palatine Hill. I actually could not describe my excitement to see the Pope in real life, but he ended up calling in sick at the last minute, and didn’t show up. I still got to watch the procession in a huge crowd though.

I spent Saturday and Sunday in Florence with my best friend from high school, Camille, and her family. The tradition in Florence on Easter Sunday is literally an exploding cart – the Scoppio del Carro. Camille’s family attended Church in the Duomo that morning, not expecting the ceremony to start with lighting of a (fake) bird on fire, sending it flying out a window, and then igniting a massive cart packed with fireworks. lol imagine their surprise. I missed filming the actual explosion but I captured a picture of the actual cart below. 

On Easter Monday I traveled to Milan, just in time for their annual Fiera dell’Angelo: an extensive Spring market with flowers and plants. I also found a stand selling popular street food, including Sicilian cannolis! My grandparents are from Sicily, and owned an Italian restaurant in Milwaukee when I was younger. I grew up making cannolis with my cousins for weddings and other special occasions, so I was super excited to have a taste of home here in Italy.

So there you go, Easter with a side of culture shock, and I’ve gotta say, I’m here for it. Thanks for reading, Happy Easter!!! 😄🐣🌷

Čau (or more fittingly, Ciao!),

Reese Liebman

Computer Science and Engineering

Institute for Study Abroad (IFSA) CS Tech Career Accelerator in Prague, Czechia

[tatorthots]

— someone aggressively flirts with their partner

featured: Itadori Yuji, Fushiguro Megumi, Gojō Satoru, Nanami Kento, Fushiguro Toji x gn!reader

cw: suggestive content, fluff, protectiveness, possessive behavior, comfort, cursing, uncomfy situations

a/n: i love daydreaming about jjk men and their possessive nature. literal heart eyes, kicking my feet and giggling thinking about it

status: re-editing !!

ITADORI

This sweetheart would look like such a kicked puppy if he saw someone trying to flirt with his partner. But that’s only if he figures out his partner is getting hit on in the first place. You gotta remember that Itadori has a naturally friendly and charismatic personality so often it’s hard for him to recognize something as flirting

For the most part, he doesn’t necessarily get upset if someone’s flirting with you, and he has no problem walking up to the both of you and kindly letting them know that you’re actually taken — by him, of course. But that’s not to say he’s always unbothered by it! There’s times when he does feel a little more vulnerable than usual and during these times he tends to cling onto you, and beg for your attention more. You definitely never have a problem with it either because he just looks too cute wrapping himself around you and pouting if you’re not giving him enough affection

However, Itadori doesn’t need to recognize something as flirting for him to understand when you’re feeling uncomfortable. The man might be a little dense at times but he has a hyper sensitivity to your emotions and distressed cues. He always tries to keep things friendly if he can and quickly remove you from the situation but sometimes things don’t exactly go according to plan

“Hey, babe I’m gonna go buy some sweet potatoes fries from the vendor down the street,” beaming at you, he pulled you in and planted a kiss on your forehead, “I’ll get you some too!” Letting you go he turned around and headed in the opposite direction, “I’ll be back!” He yelled out amidst the crowd of people walking through the busy food-stalls. “Add green onions on mine!” You yelled back as he disappeared. Smiling to yourself, you turned around and started wandering through the small shops around the area in an attempt to find a small gift for your boyfriend, hm? You curiously thought as your eyes set on a cute pair of matching keychains. “Ahh~! They’re so cute—!!” quietly squealing to yourself you lifted the two keychains to admire them better, until you felt someone tap your shoulder from behind. Quickly hiding the keychains in the palm of your hands, you nervously turned around, “Oh! You’re back sooner than I thou—“ stopping mid-sentence you stared in confusion at the sleazy looking man swaying in front of you — clearly drunk in the middle of the day. “Oh.” “If you’re getting all excited over s-some keychains, then ya suuure gonna lose it when I show ya what I got t’ offer.” Grimacing at the man’s slimy words, you gave a wry smile in response, “I’m not interested.” You muttered as you walked past him, but you felt a hand grab your arm and pull you back. “C’mon don’t be like-like that—! I’m just tryna get t’ kno-know s’ all.” Scrunching your nose in disgust at the man’s alcoholic stench, you snatched your arm away from his grip, “I told you I’m not interested. Go throw up in an alley if you have nothing better to do.” Huffing, you tried moving to find your boyfriend but your attempt didn’t last long when the man suddenly blocked your way with an angry look on his face. “Wha-t? You think.. you think you’re be-better than mee?” He slurred as he started to approach you. Clenching your fists, you took a step back and quickly considered your options. There was always the option to bash this creeps head into the ground, but doing so would probably cause too much commotion. Then again, even if you tried settling the tension by talking, you doubt this guy would listen to rationality. Bumping into a merchandise rack, you hadn’t realized how close the drunkard got until he was practically standing and screaming inches away from your face. Looking around apprehensively for an exit as anxiety started to bubble up, you braced yourself for a physical confrontation until a familiar tall silhouette and mess of pink hair stood in front of you.

“What do you think you’re doing?” His tone was uncharacteristically flat, “Don’t you see you’re making her uncomfortable?” He questioned, yet by the way his eyes stayed staring at the man, it was clear his question was more of a statement. Quickly glancing back at you, his boyish features softened, “You okay? You’re not hurt, right?”

GOJO

Gojo Satoru, the strongest man alive — also known as the diabolical asshole who thinks it’s funny when fratbro looking guys try to hit on you. This man hardly has a jealous bone in his body.

Managing to get the strongest man alive to feel jealous is honestly a challenge within itself

This man’s self-esteem are absolutely pristine, and his security and confidence in his relationship isn’t something he’s ever felt doubtful of. I mean, he is Gojo Satoru, who would dare oppose him — much less his partner?

Gojo loves to watch in light amusement as snobby, over-confident guys try to win his partner over. He honestly gets a kick out of seeing their pathetic attempts; so much so that he even allows them just enough time to actually think they have a chance with you. Of course all fun has to come to an end, and that’s when he’ll smugly stride towards you. A cocky smirk plastered on his voice as his chirpy voice asks who your new friend is. This man would be a real subtle menace while strikes up casual conversation with the very same man who so blatantly failed at stealing you away. Of course, bit without being slightly condescending and placing a firm hand on your ass to squeeze. He won’t be ashamed of being so indecent either, and his mocking gaze won’t break from the dumb, poor stranger in front of you.

MEGUMI

Megumi gets jealous even though he vehemently denies it. But he doesn’t get jealous of you talking to other people but rather other people crossing boundaries talking to you

He’s protective by nature, and makes quick work in letting any strangers know that you’re taken by him. It’s no an insecurity thing, but megumi doesn’t tolerate anyone disrespecting his relationship, “it’s indecent and annoying” he says

Megumi acoffs under his breathe as he watches, yet again, another nuisance try to flirt with his partner. With hasty a puff and an annoyed glare, Megumi doesn’t let this new pest get too far in their lame pickup line before his dark eyes are narrowing down on them in distaste. He wastes no time in calmly walking towards the both of you. Once he reaches his place by your side he lazily loops his arm around your hips and bends slightly as his other hand tenderly raises your chin and directs it towards him to place a loving kiss on your lips — making sure to linger a while longer. “Sorry I’m late, love” he whispers while you wrap your arms around his neck and placing a kiss on the tip of his nose before kissing him again. After separating, he sideyes the dumbfounded stranger, “tch. what? don’t you have somebody else to pester with half-assed pickup lines?” The sharp edge in his voice letting the offender know his question wasn’t a request.

NANAMI

This man doesn’t even need to say anything when he’s with you to keep other suitors from pursuing you. After all, someone who looks as serious as him and built like he bites more than he barks, has no trouble in being deemed your guard dog

Nanami is a calm and collected man. He’s not the type to display his emotions, or act out in public because of some surface level jealousy. That’s not to say he’s keen on watching others hit on his partner

Nanami clenches his jaw as he stares down the smug stranger shamelessly flirting with you — even adding insult to injury by doing so right after Nanami had to quickly step outside of the cafe to answer a phone call. A disapproving frown tugs at his lips as he pinched the bridge of his nose to settle his irritation. Honestly, what th hell did that idiot even think he could do by the time Nanami returned back inside? It was just outright exasperating at this point. No matter how hard you try to fight off these unwanted suitors they just keep coming. Sighing in annoyance, Nanami slightly scowls at the man currently infiltrating your personal space before stepping between you and the offender. He curtly ‘advises’ them to leave, emphasizing that their presence isn’t wanted by you. But if they choose to hold their ground, Nanami has no issues in letting them know that they made his lover uncomfortable and he’s more than willing to keep that from happening again

TOJI

This man most definitely harbors an almost feral like protectiveness — borderline possessiveness — for his partner, and he isn’t shy to show it

Keep in mind, Toji is a very confident man, arguably arrogant at times. Meaning his jealousy stems from his possessiveness and “what’s mines, is mine” attitude than any level of insecurity or doubt

Toji sizes up the lovestruck idiot daring enough to approach you. His dark irises carefully track each and every movement the stranger makes once he starts rambling about whatever the fuck mediocre conversation they could think of. Of course, being the territorial man he is, Toji wastes absolutely no time in sauntering over to the both of you. You don’t miss the menacing smirk etched across his rough feeatures, or the ominous glint in his eyes. I mean, even just the aura radiating from this haughty dilf screamed out ‘danger’ and you loved it. Walking up from behind you his deep, raspy voice sliced through the building tension, “Get lost.” His arm wrapped snuggly below your breasts to pull you into his embrace as another hand lightly tugged the collar of your sweater to showcase the litter of hickies and bite marks hidden underneath the fabric. You could feel his cocky smile widen from behind as he revealed the complexion of your soft, supple skin practically complimenting the bruising colors. It most definitely didn’t help that the feverish blush searing your skin made his chest swell with pride. Truthfully, the raven-haired man couldn’t resist you even if he wanted to. Without faltering eye contact, his eyes narrowed, “Unless you got a problem with that?”

[awanderingdeal]

Hey Lucy! Could you please write some goalie love? Maybe some hurt-comfort with Leo going to Kasey for advice or something like that? 💛

Edited: 20th Feb 23 - Nothing major, just rewriting some stuff with (what I hope) are much improved skills.

Hey, 💛 Here's some Kasey giving Leo advice after his first game loss.

Rating: G

CW: None that I can think of, but do drop me a message if I have missed anything.

Character credit belongs to @lumosinlove

Leo had lost games before. Of course he had. Nobody got through a high school hockey career without experiencing that low. Still, he hadn't been prepared for the guilt curling in his stomach, pulling at his insides until he felt bitter bile at his throat.

Swallowing, Leo slumped back in his stall trying to silence the jeers of their opponent's fans ringing in his ears. A few feet away, James and Thomas cooed over photos of Thomas' new nephew, whilst Nado and Timmy made similar noises over potential tattoo designs. The rest of the team seemed to have put the defeat behind them already, but even the itch of sweat drying beneath his pads wasn't enough to get Leo moving.

"Hey," Kasey said, slapping his hand against Leo's shoulder before taking a seat in the next stall. "You okay?"

Leo pressed his tounge against the back of his teeth, thinking about shrugging off the question. Kasey watched him patiently; the only sign he was waiting for an answer was in the slight tilt of his head. It reminded him of something his Mama had told him once. People think more than they talk sometimes. You've gotta be comfortable with the silences. He hadn't really understood it back then.

"How'd you do it?" Leo asked eventually

Kasey cocked his head further. "I'm going to need a bit more than that."

Sometimes you have to push just a little.

"Knowing that the loss was your fault," Leo said.

Kasey blinked and cocked his head even further. Was he a fucking cat?

But for the most part, people will talk if you let them.

"Okay," Leo sighed, tangling his fingers together. "I get we're a team, but I should've saved that second goal and if I had we'd have won."

"And if Sirius hadn't lost the puck in the first place?"

"Sirius' job is to score goals meaning there's always a risk of him losing the puck. My entire job is to save goals. It's the only reason I'm here."

Kasey laughed, smoothing his hair out of his face, "Sorry, it's just funny. Rookies, I mean. They never change." He sat more upright, smile dropping into something softer, more reassuring. "Look, Leo. Sometimes you just make a mistake. You've just got to shrug it off, do better next time. Besides, for the pick to end up in front of you, then somebody else messed up too and if you don't blame them then you don't get to blame yourself either. Win together. Lose together."

Everything Kasey was saying made sense, yet Leo found himself trying to twist the words into something that would fit his own narrative. Tugging at a lose piece of skin at the corner of his nail, Leo opened his mouth and then closed it again.

"Stop being stupid," Kasey said as he stood. "Not an insult. Like I said, rookies are all the same. It's normal. You're going to have to get over that self-depriciating shit real quick though, if you want to keep any semblance of mental health in this game."

Leo huffed a breath feeling the air flare his nostrils. He wanted to stomp his feet and tell Kasey he was wrong. Instead, he leaned forwards and began to peel off his pads.

Kasey nodded knowingly. "I can't promise the losses hurt less with time, but you will get used to them. Grab a shower. We're getting burgers. Dinner's on Cap."

Sirius jerked his head up from the tablet he was engrossed with. "Excuse me?"

"The rookie needs cheering up. You're Captain."

"Burgers! Yes!" James whooped, "Thanks Pads. Can Lily come?"

Leo glanced between Kasey and Sirius. He didn't think he'd ever be confident enough to tell Sirius what to do. Despite clear attempts to to be as welcoming as possible he was still Sirius Black, captain of the Gryffindor Lions and impressive as fuck. That was just intimidating.

"OK, D'accord," Sirius threw his hands up in surrender, laughter bubbling on his lips. He shook his head muttering something in French that Leo couldn't quite catch. "For Leo. Just this once."

"Love you, Cap!" Finn called, starting a round of declarations that only got increasingly more ridiculous.

"Words can't express my gratitude."

"What did we do to deserve such a kind and generous leader?"

"I'm blowing you a kiss. Catch it."

"Thanks, Sirius," Leo said quietly, as the team quickly moved on to helping Evgeni choose the perfect shade of blue to repaint his bedroom. "Appreciate it."

Sirius just nodded at him, returning to his tablet briefly before looking back up at Leo. "You're doing great. Keep it up." His face twisted into something conflicted then settled on a smile.

"Everybody is doing great," Kasey agreed, only the slightest hint of sarcasm dripping into the comment. "What a fantastic team we are. Now hurry up, I'm starving."

With each item of clothing Leo removed and the warmth of the water on his skin, the familiar tightness across his chest began to disapate. It was going to be okay. Better than okay, maybe. The Lions were a pretty great bunch of people.

[impossiblefangirl0632]

Midnight Mischief: Milk Edition

Camilo crept through the courtyard, out the door, and down the hill into town with full confidence in his plan.

This was a great idea. No questions. None whatsoever.

Except… 

He didn't know if he could actually pull it off by himself. 

Now usually his pranks were an easy one-man show. How could they not when he could be literally anyone?

But the fact of the matter was he needed an accomplice for this one. Not even he could be in two places at once.

The problem was finding someone who'd help him. 

He stopped walking.

Maybe he should have thought about this before he snuck out.

The obvious answer was Antonio but there was no way he was risking his parent’s wrath by taking Antonio on a 2 am prank excursion 

Mirabel then? Camilo pursed his lips. Maybe…

“Camilo.”

Now, don’t let Bruno lie to you, Camilo Madrigal did NOT scream when Bruno snuck up on him. He totally did

But to be fair you would have too if your uncle with a penchant for mischief and a pair of glowing green eyes snuck up on you in the middle of the night.

“Tio!” Camilo wheezed, “Don’t DO that!” 

Bruno just snickered, “Ah Sobrino, that’ll never get old.”

Camilo glared at him. 

Well, there went that plan. He was in so much trouble.

But, never one to give up easily Camilo stalled for time. “So…” He adopted a casual tone, that oozed I’ve done nothing wrong, everything about this is completely normal. “What brings you out tonight hmm?”

Bruno raised an eyebrow, which only made him look eerier. Camilo really wished he wouldn’t use his eyes as a flashlight. Actually, now that he thought about it that was probably why 6-year-old him had formed the opinion that Bruno was some sort of boogeyman.

Bruno shrugged, nonchalant. “Oh, you know, just checking up on my trouble maker Sobrino, gotta find out if he has a good excuse for sneaking out at 2 am. It’s important information when deciding whether or not to tell his madre—”

Camilo broke character, panicking “Don’t tell her! Please! This is, this isn’t a normal prank it’s—”

Bruno’s faux serious expression broke and he laughed. “Ay, Milo, I’m not going to tell Pepa. I’m here to help you.”

Camilo opened his mouth to argue before processing his uncle’s words. “Wait, help me? You don’t even know what I’m doing.”

“Ohhh, so you’re not trying to drive all of Señor Hernández’s cows into the donkeys' favorite spot, ie the middle of town, meanwhile putting the donkeys in the pasture where they’ll be incredibly annoying to gather up again. And of course, all of this definitely isn’t to give him an exaggerated taste of his own medicine because it’s Luisa’s day off tomorrow and wayward animals don’t count as an emergency so he’ll have to round them all up by himself.”

Camilo blinked.

“How did you— Wait no, stupid question.” Camilo brightened immediately, his trademark mischievous grin slid smoothly back into place. “If you saw it then it works!”

A matching grin spread across Bruno’s face. If his sisters had seen it they would have groaned and told the unfortunate soul he was planning on wreaking havoc on to run for the hills. But then again Bruno never did anything that wasn’t deserved so maybe not. 

He schooled his face back into Serious Adult. “Exactly. But. The terms of me not telling Pepa are that we have to actually milk the cows. Hernández isn’t going to do it while he’s panicking and it’s not good for them  if they don’t get milked.”

Camilo scrunched up his face but didn’t argue. That was… fair. But, “Do you even know how to milk a cow?”

Bruno gave him a deadpan look. “Kid, we were refugees with nothing, it took roughly 20 years for the Encanto to get to any sort of comfortable stability. When I was your age milking cows was something I could do to be useful that didn’t involve visions or people.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah…” Bruno clapped his hands together. “Right, well, let’s go teach an incompetent rancher the importance of fixing his fences.”

In the morning when a panicked Señor Hernández banged on Casita’s door to request Luisa’s help Camilo took great pleasure in not so politely informing him that it was actually Luisa’s day off and maybe he should work on keeping better track of his animals.

And if the exhausted duo (who knew getting cows to move would be so HARD) had been forcibly put to work by a knowing Julieta to use up the abundance of milk they’d brought home, well, that was something that would just have to be kept in the family.