#i just realised i didn't post anything last night after i put up the chapter cause i just went straight to bed lol

[ruedesfillesducalvaire]

I present chapter 6, in which Javert confronts Valjean Madeleine with his suspicions.

this may be the shortest chapter so far, but it's also probably my favourite. it was just such an incredibly fun scene to write!! the dialogue was a blast! hope you enjoy

(if you're new here and interested in reading a canon-era valvert fic, you might like to start from the beginning)

[archiveikemen]

Liam Evans Main Story: Chapter 2

I do not own any of the Ikemen Series content being uploaded on this blog, everything belongs to CYBIRD. Please support them by downloading and playing their games.

read this before interacting with my posts

Liam: … The name of tonight’s show is called “Don Quixote”.

Liam: It’s showtime! I’ll make you forget all about those frightening and unpleasant things.

In front of me, Liam acted out different roles and performed a one-man play for me.

Sometimes he was Don Quixote the old man, sometimes he was Sancho Panza the farmer.

And sometimes, he played the role of a prostitute at an inn.

(... He brings all the characters to life with his acting.)

Don Quixote, who continued his pilgrimage at an old age, laughed and said…

Liam: “As long as I’m alive, there is hope.”

Before I knew it, Liam had hopped off my bed and turned on the lights, and he was back to being himself.

Liam: Did you like it, my lovely audience member?

Kate: Yes, I loved it! … Words aren't enough to describe how much I did.

Liam: Haha I’m glad to hear that.

Liam easily took away my anxiety and worries about what I would face the next day.

Still feeling enchanted, I gave him a round of applause.

Liam’s lips relaxed into a smile.

Liam: … You’re smiling. Mmhmm, your smile is genuine this time.

(Oh…)

I was so mesmerised by Liam’s performance that I didn't realise I was smiling.

(However…)

Kate: Why did you decide to show me that play?

Liam: Hm?

Kate: I know you were trying to cheer me up. But why would you do that for me alone…?

Liam: Yesterday, you could recognise who I was, because you remember me. That’s why I thought that you’d like to watch me perform.

== Flashback Start ==

Kate: I think I’ve seen you before… oh!

(This man was at the play I went to last month… he’s a stage actor!)

Liam: You already know me? That’s great. I’m a stage actor on the surface, and a member of Crown behind the scenes. My name is Liam Evans.

Liam: Let’s get along well from now on, cutie Kate.

== Flashback END ==

(… It was such a small thing, and yet he remembers it so clearly.)

Liam crouched down in front of me while I sat on the floor.

Liam: In the future, if there’s anything clouding your mind, I’ll clear it for you.

Liam: Come on, close your eyes. Imagine…

(Like this…?)

I did as he said and closed my eyes.

Liam: How about I invite you to have a first class seat at a play? I can help dress you up for that.

Liam: After that, we’ll go to town together. We can shop at Harrods to our hearts content.

Liam: Ah, I discovered a great gelato shop in the back alley the other day. We can buy some for ourselves and eat there too!

Liam: Harry has a sweet tooth, and even he praised the gelato from that shop. So it’s definitely good!

Liam: We don’t always have to stay in one town. Every once in a while, we can take the locomotive to a far away destination.

Liam: And then—

Something soft touched the back of my hand.

(…!)

(Did he just…)

Liam: And of course, we can do more than this.

Kate: More than this…?

Liam: Yeah. Don’t tell the other guys in Crown, though.

Liam suddenly put one hand on the nape of my neck and pulled my face towards him in a forceful yet gentle manner.

I could see a reflection of my face in his rose coloured eyes.

(...!)

Liam: I’m good at making people feel good. I love playing with them until they turn into a mess.

Liam: I do it alot.

Liam: … Want to do it now?

(Should I…)

The sweet smell of vanilla and his seductive gestures nearly captivated my heart—

(No no no no no! How can it be possible for such a popular guy to be interested in me!?)

Kate: Pfft ahahaha! I almost took your joke seriously for a moment there. Thanks, Liam.

Liam: … That wasn’t a joke.

Liam: But at least it made you laugh.

Liam smiled and sat down next to me, shoulder to shoulder.

In the silence of the night, only our breathing could be heard.

Liam: Hey, Kate.

Kate: …?

Liam: You’re going to be living here for a month.

Liam: During this period of time, it’s inevitable that you’ll encounter more scary and disturbing things. However…

Liam: Make sure that nothing can harm all of you.

Kate: All of me…?

Liam: How should I put this…

Liam: You’re the only one who can know how you truly feel, in the very core of your heart.

I tried to guess what Liam meant.

I’m sure that everyone has something soft and sensitive hidden deep in their hearts.

Liam: Your heart belongs to you, and only you. I hope that you’ll let me help you stay just the way you are.

(My heart belongs to only me…)

Liam’s words gradually softened my heart that was almost turned into stone.

All fear and anxiety started to melt away.

(... I still don’t have my own opinion.)

I won’t look away from anything that happens in front of my eyes, till the day I can form an opinion about them.

I’ll bravely face the members of Crown.

Because this is the only way I can survive, and the only thing I can do for the next month.

Kate: … Alright.

I got up and reached for the cream stew on my table that had already turned cold.

Liam: Is your appetite back?

Kate: … Not really. But I don’t want the food to go to waste, and I have to at least eat something so I’m ready to face tomorrow.

Liam: … Tomorrow?

Kate: Even if today was a bad day, I want to keep going in hopes that tomorrow will be better. Therefore, I need strength to do that.

That was just a show of courage and my true feelings.

Liam: I see. … I’ve never thought that way before.

Kate: …?

Liam: Nothing, I was just saying that it's great that you think that way. Hey, can I stay here for a while longer?

Kate: Of course, if you want to.

Liam: Yay! I'll have something to eat too. I’ll get you something as well.

Liam and I continued chatting about all sorts of things through the night. For the first time in a while, I got a proper sleep…

...

(Mm… so bright…)

I opened my eyes when the sun shone on my eyelids.

Liam: Good morning, Kate.

Kate: …

Kate: WAAAHH…!

Liam: Heh, you’re good at waking up. It’s too bad I didn't get a chance to take advantage of you.

Liam: I’d kiss you to wake you up if you were half asleep and groggy.

Kate: W-Why am I using your arm as a pillow…

Liam: Oh, you fell asleep while we were chatting. So I thought that you’d sleep better this way.

(Right. I fell asleep without realising it…)

I quickly moved away from Liam and bowed my head so much that my forehead grazed against the sheets.

Kate: … Sorry.

Liam: No worries. Actually, I was lucky I could look at your face all night.

(... Maybe I’ve been too wary of him.)

(This feels strange. I’m not usually like this.)

He was like a star I couldn't reach, shining brighter than anyone could ever shine.

And yet, like a stray cat, he wandered into my heart and made me let my guard down around him.

Liam was a very unusual person.

While I was thinking about it, Liam fiddled with my bangs.

Liam: Your bed hair is so cute.

Kate: N-No, it isn’t. Please stop looking at it.

Liam: Eh— I don’t want to. Come on, let me have a better look at it.

Kate: H-Hey…!

Victor: Good morning, Miss Kate! I baked you some muffi—

Kate • Liam: … Ah.

Victor: Wow.

As I stared at Victor’s wide-eyed face, my current situation slowly started to sink in.

(He misunderstood us!)

Kate: Victor, it’s not…

Victor: You and Liam are both adults, so I don't see anything wrong if it was consensual, but…

Liam: Really? Victor, you’re so open-minded.

Victor: But what is this small feeling of desolation sweeping through my heart?

Victor: Ah, I’m so petty…!

Liam: That was loud! Hahaha you’re so energetic early in the morning, Victor.

Victor: Is this what parenting feels like…!? Looks like I’ve entered a new phase in life…

Kate: Um, Victor! Please hear me out…

Harrison: I heard someone yell, did something happ...en…

Ellis: Kate, I heard a… yell…

Harrison • Ellis: …

Harrison: Ohh, I see. Not bad, Liam.

Ellis: As long as Kate is happy, I’m fine…

(This is getting out of control! I have to clarify the situation before more people come over.)

Just as I was about to lose my mind, I made eye contact with Jude who was passing through the hallway.

Jude: …

Jude: Hah. What’s this all about?

Jude: You nymphomaniac.

Kate: N-No…!

…

(... I feel like what happened this morning really drained my energy.)

After clearing up the misunderstanding, I went into the garden and pulled out my notepad.

I recalled what Victor told me about my work becoming a valuable resource to aid the research being conducted on “curses”, and also act as a report of Crown’s activities to Her Majesty the Queen.

(I want to make sure that the things I write will be useful. But…)

I still didn’t know anything about Crown.

Apart from the part about them fighting evil with evil.

(I need to find out more about everyone here.)

But as someone who just came to this place, it didn’t feel right for me to pry into their business.

It felt as if I was overstepping boundaries. Even though it was part of the task I was entrusted with, I was still hesitant.

I looked up at the sky, pondering about what I should do. That’s when—

Liam: Kate! I finally found you.

Kate: Liam.

Liam squinted his rose coloured eyes happily as he walked up to me with a spring in his steps—

Liam: Hey, Kate. Want to go on a date with me? Right now.

[i-just-look-at-pictures]

I am irrationally emotional about this because whether I had 20 views or 20k views it really makes no difference to my love of their story but I just want to take a moment of disbelief and thank anyone who has ever taken the time to comment, leave kudos or even so much as read my fic.

This is really quite excessively open but I started writing TSLIHSALHUT (note to anyone who is considering writing a story - give it a simple name because it is a mouthful to type from hereon we will call it sleeps) when I was essentially on house arrest awaiting an operation for a health issue. I was depressed, lonely and really just existing. I reached a point where I didn't even want to exist because what was the point?

I had finished the last term of my master's and was being left behind by all my friends who were getting on with their lives and planning all these incredible things whilst I felt I was drowning. I was housebound, so desperately ill and had given up on my life ever becoming better. Whilst rewatching Peaky Blinders I found an old oneshot from years ago that prompted me to draft a chapter, one chapter. I will add that my degree was in creative writing but I had lost all confidence in my own voice and lost all longing to write, to do anything I had once remotely found enjoyable.

But I wrote it and afterwards I posted said chapter because I thought why the fuck not. It was a short seven-chapter fic that would 'look at Tommy's and Grace's life together.' Snippets, never did I intend their entire journey to be documented in this. What changed? You all.

I say without an ounce of exaggeration that writing this fic saved my life. Slowly, slowly, with each chapter, with each upload, with each kudos or comment, something reawoke. This wasn't just writing about my favourite characters anymore, this was a community that embraced both me and the small work of creativity that I brought to the table.

For such a violent show, I have never been a part of such a wonderful, empathic, tender, beautiful community. I had been surviving for such a long time that I had completely forgotten what it felt like to have a purpose, a drive, a hobby, SOMETHING that I was proud of and you have all been with me every single step of the way.

This is too emotional for a Wednesday night but Jesus Christ, I don't know how I would ever thank you all for giving me my voice back. It started as a whisper over the summer and your kindness and support have enabled me to carry that over to my everyday life.

It was a safety blanket to fall back on. It was something to get me out of bed before midday. It was innumerable posters reaching out to me after my dog was put to sleep. It was strangers on the internet checking in with me after my operation. It was support and companionship and it was recognition that, even though I felt I did not matter, you thought I did. You thought my work did.

So thank you. For every single person in you 20,062 (I mean that is just fucking ridiculous, have you read it... it's shit!). You could not save me when I was drowning, and you never even realised I had entered the water but you each contributed to the ladder that allowed me to climb to safety.

I got my operation, my health grew better, I finished my degree, I went back to work and life got better, but I sincerely do not think I would be sat here tonight in the position I am if it had not started with that first chapter of Sleeps.

Never underestimate the impact you have on strangers on the internet. Never underestimate the value of your worth. You save lives and change lives every single day and for that, I will love and appreciate you for the rest of my life.

So, emotional time over. Peace out. I have Spag Bol for tea and a chapter to edit.

Beth x

[pinkcherryblossomangel]

Away from home - chapter 7

Y/N is an actress, filming for her first lead role in the film adaptation of her favourite childhood book, produced by maximum effort.

She bonds with Ryan Reynolds over their share Love of the Korean pop band Stray Kids, and he has a surprise for her.

When she starts missing home and the darkness creeps upon her, her hotel neighbour comes to her rescue.

Trigger warnings- mentions of depression, self harm and anxiety.

This chapter is NSFW

Stray kids fan fic

Mainly staring 3ratcha

But the other boys do make appearances it's just easy to keep to minimum of characters lol

Chan x oc

This is my first ever fan fiction so if it's shit soz.

It's 3pm by the time I wake up. I feel groggy. My mouth's dry and my stomach hurts from hunger, I pull out my phone and order a McDonald's meal... or two.

I hop in the shower, forgetting its broken, so i pull my pj's back on and head to Chan's. But before I exit my door i notice a piece of paper on the floor.

It's from chan. He's handwriting is adorable.

'Morning Y/N. I realised I don't have your number and you didn't answer when I knocked on your door this morning so I'm guessing you're still asleep. I really enjoyed last night, I hope I didn't come off too strong.

I just really wanted to kiss you.

I know it's only been a few days since we met, but it feels like we we're meant to be in each others lives.

If you don't feel the same that's cool, I just wanted to put all my cards on the table. I like you and I'd like to take you out on a date sometime. I'm out this weekend, staying at Hannah's, but I'll be back tomorrow night. I'll see you then. Its a date!

Chris x'

Why am I crying?...

Is this the first time anyone has ever said anything like this to me?

Fuck, my McDonald's is here.

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

I scran down my big mac and chicken legend and crawl back into bed. How I'm I meant to go two days without him? God I sound ridiculous! It's been 5 fucking days and I'm acting like I'm in love. I think I'm just addicted to how I feel around him, he feels like home. The comfort of walking into a warm house after being in the cold outside.

I want to know more about him. All his little intricacies and quirks. I want to know what wakes him up in the morning and what keeps him in bed. To know all about what goes on in that gorgeous head of his. I'm counting down the seconds until I can.

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

8 pm Sunday evening. I've legitimately just slept all weekend. I did have a video with my family back home. It felt so good to see their beautiful faces! But mostly I enjoyed seeing my cats that my mum put on the call whilst she went to the bathroom. They told me they miss me too.

No one has yet Come to fix my shower. I'll let them off since it's the weekend, but I've been stewing in my post night out smell. I should go round to Chris', but theres two problems with that idea. 1. I haven't heard him return and he hasn't knocked round here.

2. I smell like shit and look like it too. (Very reminiscent of my depressive episodes im prone to, but with out the actual sadness. )

There's no harm in just knocking to see if he's, so I grab my dressing gown and head to his.

I here him talking, but theres no reply. I wait for a moment, he's probably on the phone. He stops talking so I knock.

"One minute!!" He yelled! " I'll be back in a sec guys!" Guess he's still on the phone. He answers, a huge smile appears on his face, he looks back in the direction of his phone and slowly closes the door slightly behind him so we're both in the hallway.

"Sorry is this a bad time?" I ask, slowly heading back to my door.

"I'm just... I'm just doing a live stream." He replies, looking slightly embarrassed.

"Oh yeah your Chans room! I've seen a few" He seems to look less nervous that I'm not judging him. "I just wanted to know if I could use your shower. Mines still broken"

"Yeah of course you can, could you wait just like 40 minutes?"

"Yeah sure! I've waited over 24 hours, 40 minutes won't kill me" I laugh. He brushes his hand through his hair and I notice his bicep flex. I never really noticed it but this man is buff. No wonder I feel safe around him, he could beat up a bear a win. Well maybe not a  bear?

I turn to head back into my room, but he takes my hand stopping me.

"Did you get my letter?" He asks, his eyes shining with hope.

"Yeah I did" I say meeting his eyes with the same anticipation.

" and did you..." I cut him off, bringing his lips to mine. My hand running through his hair.

" does that answer your question?" I tease.

"And all the ones after" He answers, slightly bewildered. "I have to head back in. I'll see you soon"

"It's a date" I reply. His grin has taken over his entire face, giddy like a child.

"It is indeed" He says before closing his door.

I collapse on my bed and open up his stream. God he's gorgeous. He keeps smiling to himself, which makes me do the same. I'm literally kicking my feet and smiling over this man. The chat seems to have noticed too. All mentioning how he seems to have found something outside his room very exciting. He answers them saying a staff member just was asking what food he wanted from the shop.

He signs of with a virtual hug, and now I get to have a real life one. And a shower.

I knock the door again, he shouts that it's open in response. I walk in, naked underneath my dressing gown. I stand awkwardly in his room, not sure whether we should talk about everything now or after my shower. He turns in his chair away from his laptop, his gaze lands on me. I'm suddenly aware that if this thin belt unwraps I'll be stood here bare ass naked. I pull the belt tighter.

"You gonna shower?" He questions

"Yeah, I just didn't know if you wanted to talk about everything properly now or after my shower?" He seems taken aback from my forwardness.

"Now?" He pats on his bed for me to sit down. I follow his direction and sit down opposite him. He wheels his chair closer to me so our knees are touching. A knot beginning to form in my stomach. He puts his hands on my knees. I think I flinch in response because he removes them as soon as he places them down.

"Sorry" He stammered, backing off. I hold his hands, stopping him from backing off too far.

"I'm okay. Its just..." fuck how do I explain this without sounding like a weirdo? "I've got nothing on under here. And well." I put my head in my hands. "I've never been touched in such a gentle way there. I was just a bit taken aback." He's silent. Then his lips curl into a smirk.

"So, that reaction was because you liked it so much?" A raised brow has joined his smirk. I can tell this man loves a good tease. He's gonna be the death of me.

He pulls himself even closer, this time he gently spreads my knees apart, replacing the space between them with his knee. Each second he does this, he's locked his gaze on mine, making sure I'm okay with this. And fucking hell I am. He stops centimetres away from my vulva. I'm glad he does cause im honestly embarrassed by how wet I am from just his smallest touch.

He leans over to my ear, his lips grazing  my neck ever so slightly, inciting goosebumps and a sound from me I'm not sure I've ever made before. He giggles, savouring the state he's got me in. "You should take your shower" He whispers. I snap out of my trance

"Are you saying I smell?" I'm joking but slightly concerned. He laughs, removing his knee and standing up from his chair

"Not at all. I just know you've been waiting to have one. Plus I'm worried you feel like this is going too fast. Cause I am." Chan looked down admitting his feelings. "I don't want you to do anything you'll regret. we haven't known each other long and I know you wanna know someone before you're intimate like that with them". Fuck me. This man may be the most caring person I have ever met.

I stand up from his bed and walk over to him, kissing him on his forehead.

"Thank you. I did enjoy it, please know that." He drops his head, but I lift up his chin with my index finger, "I mean it." I kiss him, deeper than before. I do want him. Just not yet.

I walk past him and head into his shower.

[poedameronwifey]

A true home (The hobbit Fanfic)

Chapter 17

Hey y'all. Things are about to get super duper emotional. Make sure you have a box of tissues because I can assure you, there will be crying and there will be laughing. Al I know is that this is gonna make you feel stuff, So good luck, Enjoy and happy readings. Now onwards, my readers.

Also super sorry about this late post. I have been extremely busy with university but I will be posting more chapters soon. Don't worry!!!!!

___________________________________________________

Kate's Pov

To say that everyone was surprised would be an understatement. I'm pretty sure one or two of them fainted. I mean it's not every day that they find out that Thorin Oakenshield has a daughter who is part-elven and who has been with them since the beginning of the trip. But once we passed all of that, they cheered and gave Lilith hugs, congratulating her. Fili and Kili were beyond happy to have a cousin. They hugged her so tight, I'm surprised that she didn't burst, Balin gave her a warm smile and hug, welcoming her to the family. Renee and I just stood on the side, looking at how happy everyone was. We couldn't be happier for Lilith. I found my father and Lilith found her family. I looked at Reni with a sad look. She doesn't have a family anymore. She's the last one. It's not fair. They should be here.

It was night-time now and everyone was sitting around the fire. The girls and I decided to tell them the truth. The dwarves were surprised to learn that they were from a famous book. Renee explained how we got here.

"So you went into a cave and saw a pool inside it. Then walked out and found yourselves here?"

"Yep. We know it's weird. I mean we were surprised when we realised we were no longer home. But now I'm glad it happened. Lilith found her family and I found my father. Still a bit mad that Mama didn't tell us but I don't blame her."

Renee nodded. Lilith was sitting in between Balin and Thorin. She had her head on Thorin's shoulder. His arm wrapped around her back and his coat around them both. Soon Bofur took over, telling stories about the Blue Mountains. Everything just felt right. I smiled at my new family. I couldn't ask for anything better. My eyes gravitated to Fili. He was smoking his pipe, leaning against the wall with his legs up, laughing with his brother at Bofur' s story. He looked so beautiful. I couldn't help the blush that made its way to my face. I can't seem to get him out of my mind since Bag End. I needed some time to myself. I got up and excused myself and walked around. I stopped when I found a small pond. I sat down on the edge and put my hands in the water. It was so cool and comforting.

Then I thought, what if I had magic? I mean I did also go in the pool when I was a baby so maybe it did something to me. I decided to test that theory. My hand hovered above the water and I concentrated. The water rose from the pond to my hands, making him lose concentration and the water went back into the pond. I decided to try it again and the same thing happened. I stood up and watched as the water kept rising and I let out a surprised noise. I was able to manipulate water. I did some cool tricks that I saw in movies and TV shows. I laughed as I played with the water. It was all around me, entwining around my hands like vines but made of water. After a while I stopped, returning the water to the pond. I can't wait to tell the girls. They're going to freak out.

I heard footsteps coming up behind me. I turned around and saw Fili walking towards me. I smiled at him, making him return it with a wink. I just rolled my eyes.

"Well hello stranger. What are you doing here?"

"I was looking for you."

"Ooh did you miss me that much?"

"Of course my lady. It's boring when you are there. Plus I can't let you walk around alone. You might get lost."

I raised my eyebrow, a smirk making its way to my face, " Oh really? And you have the whole place mapped out? Oh, thank lord you came. I am saved. Now I won't have to worry about getting lost. My prince- no wait, My dwarf in shining armour. My hero."

I dramatically put my hands over my eyes and sighed. I started to laugh. He joined in. I waved him over and sat on the edge of the pond, he sat down next to me.

"Ah, that was fun."

"Aye, it was. Who knew you could be just as dramatic as Renee and Lilith."

"Where do you think they learned it from? Sure as hell wasn't the drama classes they had when they were younger. I'm just kidding. I just don't show it often. I leave that to the main drama queen; Reni, Lils, Thorin and Kili."

"Don't let Thorin hear you say that." I got up and turned to him, hands on my hips and standing on one leg.

"Or what? He's going to kill me with his majesticness? Or he's going to stare at me, hoping looks can kill? Please at least give me a challenge. Now, Reni, she's a challenge. You never know with that one. One time in school, I told this boy to shut up because I couldn't concentrate in class. He ignored me so I stabbed him in the hand with my pencil. Well next to his hand. He got angry and stabbed my hand with his pencil. When Reni found out, she was pissed. Confronted the dude to try and make him apologise to me but he just laughed. Reni's whole mood shifted. It was like she had no feelings or emotions. She walked up to him and kicked him in the stomach. Then she punched him in the face. She kept beating the shit out of him and almost broke his arm before I finally stopped her. She then said to him: "If you ever hurt my sister again, I will ruin your life, slit your throat in your sleep, burn your body, make everyone forget you ever existed and get people to feel sorry for me. And then still get away with it. You mess with my sisters, you mess with me" and walked away without care while he had a panic attack. Soon everyone heard about it and never messed with us again. Her mind goes blank and it's like someone else takes over. She has no memory of what she does when she's angry. That's why she just doesn't get angry. She'll get irritated or annoyed but never angry. And if she does, oh pray to whoever you believe in and say your goodbyes. You'll be dead before you even turn around. Lilith is kind of the same but she's not as dangerous as Reni unless you have royally screwed up."

"Reni doesn't seem like the type to do that but then again you never know. The boy got what he deserved. Now I know I will not get on her bad side."

"Yep, but she's only like that with loved ones. She's too kind for own good."

Fili nodded in agreement. They started talking about random stuff. Fili told stories about his childhood while Kate laughed and stood up to make sure she didn't fall over. Turns out that princes can be very mischievous. That explains why Thorin has grey hair. All of a sudden it was quiet so I turned to Fili and he was looking at me with that look again. When he saw me in that dress, I couldn't take my eyes off him. He walked to me, his eyes never leaving mine. When he was right in front of me, one of his hands cradled my face as he touched my forehead with his. I could feel his breath on my face. He put an arm around my waist pulling me against him, making me gasp as we stared into each other's eyes.

"Kate, I have to tell you something. I cannot wait any longer. I love you. I love you more than all the stars in the skies. I tried to deny it but I can't anymore. My heart belongs to you. You are my One."

Kate didn't know what to say. "You love me? But I'm a hobbit and you're a dwarf. A prince nonetheless."

"I don't care. I know what my heart wants. It wants you. But you do not need to say anything. I just want you to know."

He removed his arm from her waist and placed a soft kiss on her head. He turned to leave. Kate finally felt cold and realised that Fili had walked away. He loved her. Even though she wasn't a dwarf. But what did she feel? Did she love him? She thought back to the moment they met. How he blushed when he introduced himself, he covered her in his coat to make sure she didn't freeze. He was always there by her side. He made her feel safe and loved. She couldn't get him out of her head. She wondered why but now she knew, She was in love. With Fili. She had to tell him. He was almost out of her sight when she shouted.

"Fili, wait." He turned around and looked at her. She had tears running down her face. She walked to him as she spoke.

" Fili, at first I was scared. I've never felt like this before. I didn't know what this feeling meant. You never left my mind. You make me feel butterflies whenever you look at me. Whenever I'm with you, I feel safe and happy. You make me happy. I thought it would go away on its own but if anything, it just got worse. I tried to deny it, to run away from this feeling. But my heart wouldn't let go. I love you Fili. I have loved you since the night we met. I don't want to run from my feelings anymore. My heart belongs to you, it always has."

By the end I was in front of him, putting his face in my hands. His hands were wrapped around my waist, pulling me into him. Tears ran down his cheeks as he touched my forehead with his.

"Amrâlimê. I love you so much."

"I love you too, my love."

He leaned down, pulling me into a kiss. I closed my eyes, kissing him back. I wrapped my arms around his neck. It was passionate. It was full of love. His love. We pulled away, foreheads resting against each other as we looked into each other's eyes. I never thought this day would come. I never thought I'd fall in love. But now, I'm so happy I did. I sighed happily as he pulled me into his chest, cheek on my head. He placed a kiss on my forehead and ran his fingers through my hair. We stood like that for a few minutes. Nothing else mattered at that moment. It was just us, nothing else. I pulled back looking into his eyes with a smile. He brought my hand to his lips, kissing my knuckles. At the notion, I let out a giggle. And I never giggle. I was so happy. I never thought I'd ever find love. My sisters are going to tease the hell out of me. I put my head on his chest, listening to his heartbeat while he ran his fingers through my hair. We stayed like that for a while, just enjoying each other's company. I realised we'd been gone for too long. We had to get back to the others before they got suspicious but I don't want to leave. He's so fucking warm and cuddly. I pulled away, putting my hands on his chest and looking into his blue eyes.

"We have to head back. The others will get ideas and the last thing we need is my sisters making it worse."

He nodded with a smile, kissing my forehead. We walked back to the others, hands intertwined but as soon as we got close, we let go, smiling at each other as we parted ways. That did not go unnoticed by Renee and Kili. they smirked at each other. Damn it. Well, I know how I'm going to die. Teased to death by my annoying sisters. She caught my eyes, smirking and wiggling her eyebrows at me while I rolled my eyes and gave her the finger with an innocent expression. I loved pissing my sisters off. It's so much fun.

Third Pov

It was the next morning and the girls were busy training their powers in the forest near Rivendell. Katherine managed to manipulate water molecules to make water move in any form: Solid, liquid and gas. Lilith could control the plants around her and listen to nature and everything it was saying. A howl cried out, alerting the girls. They looked at each other before running to where the sound came from. They had their weapons out just in case. They came to a tree where the sound came from and saw a little black wolf pup with bright blue silver eyes crouching closer to the tree, scared and alone. The girls put their weapons away and put their hands out to show ads that they mean no harm. Lilith walked towards the little pup, not breaking eye contact and kneeling in front of it. It seemed to trust Lilith so it came out of hiding and walked slowly until it was right in front of her.

"Hi, sweetie. It's okay I'm not gonna hurt you and neither will my sisters."

Do you promise?

Lilith had no clue how but she could understand what the little pup was.

"Can you understand me little one?"

Yes.

"Okay, Why don't you tell me where your parents are?"

They're dead. I'm all alone.

"Oh, sweetie. It's okay. You want to come with me?"

The little wolf pup nodded its little head and ran into Lilith's arms. She stood up and rubbed its fur. Renee and Kate had confused looks on their faces. Lilith explained that she was able to understand what the pup was saying, They concluded that she was able to talk to animals. Renee rubbed the little one's head, smiling at it.

"Wait, is it a boy or a girl? We need to know if we're going to give it a name."

Lilith checked and confirmed it was a boy. The girls walked back to Rivendell, coming up with a name for the little guy.

"Hey, what about Hades? He reminds me of him from Percy Jackson, the book more than the movie."

"That's true. Well, then your new name is Hades. Do you like it?"

Hades nodded, causing Renee to swoon at how adorable he was. Lilith rubbed behind his ear and Kate gave him a kiss on his forehead. When the girls got back to the company, Thorin was the first to notice them, smiling at his daughter. He then noticed the little wolf pup in Lilith's arms. Lilith went up to him while Kate went to Fili, putting her head on his shoulder and Renee sat next to Kili, putting her legs in his lap and leaning against the wall. Lilith explained what happened as Thorin listened, He then looked at the little wolf pup and smiled, rubbing behind his ear. He kissed Lilith on her head and went over to Balin.

Soon it was time for the meeting with Lord Elrond. Thorin, Bilbo, Balin and the girls all went to Lord Elrond's study where he was waiting for them along with Gandalf.

"For goodness sake, show Lord Elrond the map."

"It is the legacy of my people. It is mine to protect, as are its secrets."

"Save me from the stubbornness of dwarves."

"Oh save me from the fucking stubbornness of dwarves."

Both Gandalf and Renee said in an irritated tone at the same time, Renee facepalming and shaking her head in irritation. Lilith hits her dad across the back of the head, causing him to look at her with a hint of mock betrayal which she just responds with a mock glare.

"Now I know where this one gets her stubbornness from. Look just show him the fucking map Thorin," Renee pleaded.

"Your pride will be your downfall. You stand in the very presence of the few in Middle-earth that can read that map. Show it to Lord Elrond."

Bilbo and Kate side-eyed Thorin, unsure of what he would do. Throin debated it internally before swallowing his pride and giving Lord Elrond the map. Balin tried to stop him.

"Thorin, no."

Lord Elrond took the map and opened it to examine it,

"Erebor? What is your interest in this map?"

"It's mainly academic."

"I mean these sort of artefacts contain hidden text, right ?"

Lord Elrond looked at Renee suspiciously before looking back at the map He then started walking to the light, holding up the map.

"You still read Ancient Dwarvish, do you not?"

Lord Elrond and Lilith said something in a language Kate and Renee didn't recognise. Luckily Gandalf seemed to have read their minds.

"Moon Runes. Of course. An easy thing to miss."

"Yeah because you missed it," Renee muttered to herself but she knew Gandalf heard her because he just gave her a look. When he turned away from her, she pulled her tongue, making her sisters laugh. Lilith leans closer to Thorin.

"I think Gandalf needs a pair of glasses. I think his eyes are getting on a little."

MotherFucker just smirked at her, feeling a sense of pride while she just winked at him.

"In this case, that is true. Moon Runes can only be read by the light of the moon of the same shape and season as the day on which they were written."

"Can you read them?"

Lord Elrond led them to a cliff where there stood a glass platform where he placed the map. Lilith stood next to him, looking at the map.

"These runes were written on a Midsummer's Eve by the light of a crescent moon nearly 200 years ago. It would seem you were meant to come to Rivendell. Fate is with you, Thorin Oakenshield. The same moon shines upon us tonight."

Stand by the grey stone when the thrush knocks

And the setting sun with the last light of Durin's Day

Will shine upon the keyhole.

"Durin's Day?"

"It is the start of the dwarves' new year when the last moon of autumn and the first sun of winter appear in the sky together."

"This is ill news. Summer is passing, Durin's day will soon be upon us."

"We still have time."

"Time? For what?"

"To find the entrance. We have to be standing in exactly the right spot at exactly the right time. Then, and only then can the door be opened."

"So this is your purpose, to enter the mountain?"

"What of it?"

"There are some who would not deem it wise."

"What do you mean?"

"You are not the only guardian to stand watch over Middle-Earth."

The girls looked at each other, knowing who he spoke of,

Sauron's Cockwarmer *cough cough cough*

_____________________________________________________

You guys can try and figure out who were talking about. Also I didn't come up with that. My co-writer did and I just had to put it in the book. Anyway who else is surprised that Fili decided to tell Kate that he loves her. I know I am because dude is a scaredy cat when it comes to this stuff but its okay, we love him. At least she wont die alone or a virgin...Hopefully. Anyway I hop you enjoyed that. The Bold was the wolf pup speaking. Dwarvish is in Italics. Byeeeeeeee

Roxie_Love

The wolf cub

[illusionsofdreaming]

hey, it's owhda. how have you been? it's a little bit sad to see no updates on tumblr from you(I mean any, even just a talk) but that just mean there's something else going on in your life and I sincerely hope it's something good. I didn't really know you much but I really thought that you could be a good friend to have. So.. could we get a glimpse into your life? How's your work? What are you interested in right now?

Hello, hello! It's so nice to see some familiar faces still hanging around this dusty blog! I've missed interacting with you both and Tumblr in general, it's very humbling to know people are reminded of me from time to time. I guess now is as good a time as any to post a little update on what's been going on in my life, how that's affected my writing and what I've got planned for the blog in the coming future. For those who wish to skip the chatter, tldr; I'm hanging on, this will blog will remain online and I do have plans to continue writing.

Let’s see… where do I even begin? Shortly after May, I’ve received an exciting notice - I was promoted! It’s a goal I’ve been working on for some time so it was quite satisfying to hear the news. Since then it’s been a whirlwind of activities - trying to juggle my new responsibilities and manage my own team took some time getting used to. I’ve worked solo for so long it was difficult to be the ‘leader’. In fact - I still am uncomfortable being one, but I’m starting to get the grasp of it.

I’ve been traveling for work as well and in these few months have been to Japan and UK. Both trips where I fell severely ill because my weak body can’t cross countries without making complaints and making me feel my age. Oh. And I finally got Covid in November which really laid me low for at least 2 weeks. 

I realise my health’s been taking a hit lately. Perhaps its the stress of having more work on my plate and being in a new position but I’ve been getting sick more easily. I’m currently recovering from a throat infection that I got from my UK trip as I write this - so fun times.

So yeah.. it’s been a lot of paperwork, electronic work, a lot of self reflection and remoulding of myself to my real life that really put writing on the back burner. I always wrote at night after work but nowadays I don’t even have the energy for that. If I���m not dead asleep by the time I’m done with work then some infection, flu or cold will get me. 

…and the longer I don’t touch my writing the less I wish to open my WIPs because I have a silly, irrational fear that I no longer write the same way I use to - either I’ve deteriorated or my style’s changed. It’s silly. 

Good news is that, I think I’ve finally found my pace, my new position is no longer ‘new’ but the norm and I’m slowly finding ways to carve out my own personal time in my new schedule. Which is why I’ve decided to tackle this issue today. To be honest, it’s been a while since I wrote anything fictional, but I’m planning on slowly working through the writing blocks that have built up due to my neglect. I’ve bought 2 new books during my trip in UK so that’s a step in the right direction right?

As some of my older followers would know and recognise by now, I do tend to go through highs and lows when it comes to activity on this blog. It often reflects what’s going on in my personal life haha. But lately, the creative bug that has been out of energy seemed to have been slightly rejuvenated - my habits of hyperfixating on creative mediums is rearing its head again so I know it’ll only be a matter of time before I’m itching to write again. 

About what..? TCF is still on my mind but not as much as before since it’s been some time since I last read its chapters. Lately I’ve been reading Absolute Sword Sense and am keeping up with its chapters so far. I’ve yet to get the newest Fire Emblem game and have been doing great avoiding any and all spoilers so far - but I’m pretty sure it’ll be going on my list of series I’ll write for in the future.

My health issues are to be tackled another day because I’m frankly, quite tired of taking meds. 

As for where I wish to take the blog… hmm.. that’s really a tough decision because I’ve never really had a clear goal in mind when it comes to this blog. It was just a great space to share my thoughts on fandoms and interact with likeminded people. I don’t think I’ll be opening requests for a while since I’ve got a huge backlog of WIPs to work on. I suppose I could attempt to keep the blog less.. dead? Not sure how I’ll go about it though.

Anyways.. that’s about it. Terribly sorry for the word vomit, I hope everyone's been doing well and enjoying your life! If it seems I'm a bit dead without updates, it's usually because there aren't any chatter related inboxes haha. So is this illu's call for random stories to be dropped in their mail? Yes.

[owlsandwich]

Hi buddy! Its Athena, I'm sending this out to all my mutuals - what got you into writing, what inspires you, who inspires you and what music inspires you to write? what do you love about writing?

I am so excited to have a question :D

So I read all the time as a child (before videogames arrived to steal my heart), but I think the first time I realised I would like to write a book myself was after finishing Abhorsen by Garth Nix. The ending is so incredible with so many pieces all coming together for the finale, and in that moment I realised I wanted to create something like that.

It wasn't safe for me to have thoughts written down at home though, so I never put my stories on paper. I'd hold them in my mind and add to them each night as I fell asleep, then I'd go back over them again and again, 'editing in my head. They were just for me, so I didn't have a huge desire to have them written down anyway. Then, about 12 years ago I had a dream about these two characters, and it felt so strong that the next day I got out a notebook and scribbled down a chapter about them (I still have it!). By this point I had moved out, and my partner read it and loved it. He kept nagging me to continue, and I tried a few times but didn't actually know anything about writing, so I just kept hitting dead ends.

I didn't write again until four years ago, when I decided to start over on that same project as a form of healing, and because I'd always wanted to go back to it. The original chapter I wrote still exists, (admittedly heavily edited) and is now chapter 3 of the book I self-published last year!

I think I lot of my inspiration comes from reading about human interaction and current events; I process my feelings about the world by layering it onto fantasy and seeing how similar events might play out. I still love Garth Nix, though at the moment I am diving into reading a lot of old classic books - I think my favourite so far was The Count of Monte Cristo.

As far as music goes, I attempted to classical conditon myself into writing my putting on a band I don't normally listen to every time I write. The whole of The Mechanics of Magic was written to a Portugal The Man playlist, and I ended up associating songs with each of my characters, even though the music has nothing to do with the book at all.

My current project was actually inspired by the Ghost song 'Darkness At The Heart Of My Love' though, and since I am just posting it on AO3 I stole the song title for it 😅 I think the work has moved past the initial song inspiration, but I still associate Ghost songs with my Darkness project.

I think I've probably written too much here, but this was so much fun! Thank you!

[capuletangel]

Slow Like Honey

Word Count: 3492

Story Summary: Ben Solo falls into a deep obsession with the local new baker, and Ben always gets what he wants.

Tags: DEAD DOVE; Stalking, Obsession, Creepy Ben Solo, Non-Con, Bittersweet Fluff, Misogyny, Major Character Death, Dark Themes and Eventual Smut. AFAB.

Chapter Specific Tags; Non-Consensual Touching

A/N - Genuine thank you to everyone who interacts with this fic and comments, you really do make my day. I’m a whore for validation.

Posted To AO3 | Wattpad

Masterlist

Chapter Six; Like Someone In Love

"Do you want me to help?" She stood hovering in the hallway, wide eyed as if she needed to apologise to him, but this was Ben being there for her. Clad in a sweater that only allowed the fabric of her sleep shorts to peek out by an inch. She knew what she was doing, what the flesh of her legs would do to Ben.

"Don't sweat it, kid," Ben tried to assure her as he heaved the flat pack box into her apartment, tensing his forearms as much as he could so that he didn't get her in harm's way.

Ben couldn't be more joyous about her asking him for help, as she should.

If Ben found out that she tried to assemble this by herself, he would've been fuming. Ben yearned to look after her — to help her. And the fact she felt comfortable asking brought a warmth to his heart.

Ben wanted to press her up against the wall and let his hands roam around the flesh of her thighs, feel her breath falter and her heart beat race as he pressed ardent kisses to her neck. How she melted underneath his touch.

Her hair was messy, thrown up into a bun and her hands emerged underneath the sleeves of her sweater.

He could do anything he wanted to her.

A starving man alone with such a beautiful woman, he could. He could force himself onto her, take her right where she was, listen to her screams and cries as she tried to fight. She wouldn't have been able to, of course. He was far larger than her and to have her squirm beneath him would've sent his cock into overdrive.

Feel how her heat tensed around him, muscles clenching for him despite her yelps.

But Ben didn't want that, no, no. How could he? Ben wasn't a vile man, nor a simple one at that. Ben takes his time. Ben is patient. Ben could never take her so callously or push her away. Not when he's tried so hard all of this time.

That'd be a waste.

Ben would love her like no other could. Like no other would. No one would love her like Ben can, he wouldn't let them. She's his and his alone. She'll learn. He'll teach her.

"Where are you putting it?" He scanned her apartment and couldn't fight his smirk when he realised she'd cleaned up for him, as if this was the first time he'd been here. How naïve. But, he reacted as if it was his first time seeing the place, chuckling at the photo of her in rain boots.

"Um, opposite the couch—oh, god. That's so embarrassing." She moved her body to cover the fridge, face beet red. She hugged her arms around her body, as if that could protect her from Ben's stare. Just looking towards the couch makes Ben's cock stir, remembering what she looked like last night.

Desperate and needy.

He couldn't help but wonder if she was thinking of him, imagining that it was Ben between her legs—coaxing her orgasm.

"You've got a lot of books," Ben hums, trying to get her cumming off of his mind, but it wasn't a simple task. She had another bookcase, which he noted before was filled to the brim with recipe books, but there were fiction books haphazardly placed around her apartment.

"Yeah... It's a problem. I sort of hoard them. I don't really have a lot to spend money on at the moment, so it goes to buying books."

"Have you read all of them?"

"Yeah — well, the majority of them."

Ben got his toolbox from the hallway, carefully tearing the box apart. He glanced at her from the corner of his eye and smiled at how frantic she appeared. "You can sit down, y'know, I've got it covered."

"I-I know, I just feel like I should be helping you... considering," she shrugged, chewing on her lip as if she knew it'd make his vision tunnel.

But then she stopped, and her face lit up. Ben quirked a brow, wanting to know what was going on inside her pretty head. "I can bake you something—at least I'm good at that."

"I—Okay, I won't turn that offer down."

She beamed at Ben's response, a wide smile as she moved towards the kitchen counter. Ben couldn't take his eyes off of her, how she glowed at his approval. She flicked through a small leather notebook.

He could see her rushed handwriting sprawled over the pages.

He'd imagined this for months on end. Spending the day with her, watching her work in the privacy of her own home. Being the person she bakes for. Everything was going exactly how he wanted it to. He only needed to assemble the bookcase to have her to himself.

Throughout making it, he noted all the small things that she'd do that made his heart pump faster. Faster than it had ever done before. She hummed whilst concentrating, and she'd form her face into a cute little pout, lips puffing out.

She'd mumble the ingredients to make sure that she had the ones she needed; apples, ginger, allspice, cinnamon, flour, sugar, butter and heavy cream. The smell was rich and homely.

He'd catch her eye a few times, she'd blush and look the other way, but he could see how pink her ears were turning.

The bookshelf was like the other one but had more space, an ivory shade of white. He noticed she didn't like stark colours. Everything was mellow and gentle, like her.

He wiped his hands on his jeans, puffing out a breath before turning around. Finally, he could spend time with her instead of the screwdrivers he'd been holding for the last thirty minutes.

"Ta-dah!" She placed a dish down on the table with jazz hands, face smeared with flour, just like it was the first time he saw her in September. "It's not a Danish, unfortunately for you, but I have alway wanted you to try something new... it's an apple gingerbread galette."

It looked beautiful—perfect, even with the little patisserie knowledge Ben knew about. A rich amber colour with a caramel sauce dripped over the top in delicate patterns. She'd already cut a slice for him, eagerly passing him a fork.

"This looks... really, really good—you sure you're not trying to poison me, kid? Or fatten me up like Hansel and Gretel?"

She gave a cheeky smile, though no matter how much she tried to feign charm, she'd always be too nice. Those wide eyes captured Ben through her constantly awestruck expression. "No promises."

He hummed, scooping up the galette, and his mouth exploded at the taste. His eyes soften as he held her stare. The way she was wringing her hands showed him that she was itching to know what he thought. The moan that slipped said it all.

"Good?"

"Amazing. I wish I could think of a stronger word... delectable, mouthwatering, ambrosian, succu—" He went on with a humorous tone until she shook her head, almost squeaking with insecurity.

"Stop, stop," she laughed, and it sent shivers up his spine. Seeing her toothy grin was like a thwack in the heart. "Do you want to watch a movie?"

Ben would love nothing more. "Okay." He watched her grin widen, and she nodded in success, squeezing her hands once more before moving over to her desk.

"I don't have a TV at the moment. You don't mind watching something on my laptop, do you?"

"No, no. Not at all." As long as they were sitting next to each other, cuddled onto her small couch, he was sure he'd cope, somehow.

He still wasn't certain that this wasn't one of his fever dreams. It sure felt like it. Watching her, in her apartment, her baking for him and not just for profit, but for his personal satisfaction.

Ben took a seat on the right, remembering that she liked to sit on the left side from when he last visited. She placed the laptop on the coffee table. "There are blankets in the drawers—" she cut herself abruptly, and it took Ben a second to realise why.

That's where she kept her vibrator.

"Oh?" Ben feigned innocence, leaning over to hook his fingers into the gap, ready to pull it open, but she shook her head adamantly.

"Oh, no, it's okay!"

"You sure?" He began to pull, just with a light force, and he could see the faintest glimmer of the metal.

"No, no. It's cold—we can just share my duvet."

He let his fingers drop from the draw, secretly laughing at her reaction, how frantic she became at the thought of him finding her secret. He pushed the drawer shut, but he wanted to continue to tempt.

She got so squirmy. He likes it when she squirms, like a little rabbit. All nervous.

He drew back, leaning against the cushions. It was a very comfy couch. She placed the duvet down into the middle and shuffled a bit, "I'm gonna go wash my face quick," she pointed to the flour and laughed at herself, scrambling off.

Like a little rabbit.

He took the moment alone to lift her duvet up to his nose, breathing in her scent like it was ambrosia. It relaxed his body like nothing else, as if it were made to calm him down.

Calming his muscles, making him feel at home.

He was home. Home with her. She was his home, and he hoped, no, he knew, that she could feel it too.

He dropped it when he heard the water stop running, draping it across his lap. At least it hid his ever-growing boner.

She lit some of the lamps around her apartment whilst on her way back, letting the low bulbs light the space with a soft glow.

This was peace. He couldn't imagine anything better than this. She picked up her laptop before slipping under the duvet, her thigh touching his.

"What film are we watching?"

"Um." Ben didn't miss the shy smile which began to show. "I'm—I'm a bit of a nerd for old fantasy films... But, I'm not very opinionated, if that's not your thing?"

Anything. "No, no. You can choose."

She hummed in appreciation. Scrolling through, the white light of her laptop screen let Ben see every glimmer of interest when she saw a film she wanted to watch. How her lips would twitch or her eyebrows would rise a bit as she saw the thumbnails.

Her eyes scanned between two films, chewing on her lower lip in concentration. Tilting her face to look at Ben, with an expression which tempted his cock.

"Labyrinth... or Neverending Story?"

Ben pouted at the screen, as if he cared about the film when she was sitting next to him. "Labyrinth." She nodded, happy with his choice, happy with him.

She placed the laptop back onto the surface of the table, leaning back so that their shoulders pressed together and she hooked her feet underneath her hips, so that her fluffy socks brushed against his forearm.

She was teasing him. She wouldn't have gotten so close otherwise. She felt like she could trust Ben, and that alone made his head spin.

He hooked his arm behind him, so that it leaned against the back of the couch and brushed against the skin on her shoulder.

The first touch of her bare skin against his fingertips and he couldn't be more overjoyed. He looks at her through half-lidded eyes and he can see the faintest smile tugging at her lips.

He drags his fingers back and forth, caressing her as if it's a subconscious action, like he's doing it inactively, but that couldn't be further from the truth.

Taking pleasure in feeling the texture, how silky she is, how warm she is underneath his touch.

Her body relaxes into his and he hears her take a long breath. She's tucked under his side, cherishing his touch. Melting into him. Protected. Safe. With him. So cute. She needs him — she doesn't know it just yet, but she will. She'll know, and she'll thank him.

They're about halfway into the film when her eyes start to flutter shut and her fingers begin to flitter against the duvet, twitching as she fights clarity.

It's a beautiful sight.

"A creepy guy keeps coming into the bakery," she murmurs. Her voice is so quiet he barely hears her, but he does.

Fingers pausing their rhythm as his heart speeds up. "What? Who?" He knew this would happen, knew she wasn't safe. He can't protect her when she's at work. She shouldn't be all alone. She's vulnerable. Fragile.

She whimpers sleepily, and his cock twitches again.

He nudges her, wanting an answer. "Who?"

"I'm not sure," he thinks she says, but it sounds a lot more like m'n'sure. She straightens a bit when he nudges her again. Not too harsh. He wouldn't hurt her. Just needs to know who.

Rain begins to patter down, hitting the window and muffling her, so Ben has to lean down closer.

"He's ginger. Pasty. He's weird a-and he scares me... gets really close." Armitage. That's why he was so inquisitive — why he was trying to get on Ben's nerves.

Ben drops his hand, placing it on her shoulder instead of just stroking. "It's okay," he gives a supportive squeeze, thumb coaxing the flesh on her collarbone. Her head relaxes onto his chest in submission, nuzzling into his shirt. Ben will protect her, always will. "Think I know who."

She doesn't reply, just makes a small sound and nudges her head closer. Ben hasn't been touched like this for so long, maybe not ever.

Not with such pure intentions. Not with such love, such care. His hand on her shoulder reels her closer and her hair tickles his chin, brushing against his beard.

The rain became much heavier, hitting the window panes with harsh and consistent pressure. "Think it's going to storm," Ben mumbles to himself, though it doesn't miss her ears. She tenses on him, breath hitching.

Ben inwardly gloats, begging the maker for a storm. He'll be able to look after her.

Her hand moves from the blanket to his chest when the rain continues to torment the glass, fisting the fabric. A yelp escapes her as there's a clap of thunder which cracks through the sky. She flinches and fidgets, clinging on tighter.

"Are you scared of thunder?" Ben questions, lips formed into a grin.

"No!" Her words came out rushed, but the grip told him she was lying.

"It's okay, sweet girl." Ben strokes a hand through her hair at a slow pace, mimicking the speed of his own breath. "Your safe with me."

Lightning flashes and she clamps her eyes shut, breathing deep through her nose. "C-Can we hug please? It-it's just I haven't hugged in so long—" Ben doesn't wait until she finishes her sentence, instead wrapping his arms around her in an instant.

She sounded like she was on the verge of tears.

He sighs into it, and her arms stretch to go around his torso, squeezing tight and tensing again at another boom of thunder.

She's petrified, trembling, and she's choosing to put her comfort in Ben. Holding him tight because she knows he cares. Knows he's good.

His hand rubs circles on her back and his chin rests at the top of her head.

When the next sound comes, he takes the shock to scoop her into his lap. She doesn't protest, instead she whimpers. He holds her so her butt rests on his left thigh, rather than it resting on the bulge of his cock.

He was getting very turned on, from all the whimpering and squirming. And the physical touch — Ben hasn't been hugged since his mid-twenties.

This is bliss.

This is love.

He didn't remember the warmth that followed intimacy, not just physical warmth but eternal.

It felt like his heart was swelling up, fizzling.

The thunder began to move farther away, but he didn't release her. Her breathing gets softer and softer with each minute that passes, but his grip stays firm, sheltering her in his embrace.

He likes her like this.

"Are you tired?" He mumbles, lips skimming her ear, and she shivers before nodding, releasing a tired moan.

The hand which supports her knee detaches, leaning to shut her laptop. He scoops his arm under her legs and stands. God, he loves her so much.

Seeing her sleepy frame is intoxicating, but holding it — it's indescribable.

"Gonna get you into bed."

He takes his time carrying her, holding her. Feeling her in his arms, breathing in her scent. He could do anything he wants to her, alone with her in her apartment. She's sleepy and he could take control.

The thought makes his vision tunnel, but he brushes it away for now. He doesn't want to do that.

Ben's a nice guy. He wants to take his time, it's paying off. Ben is a patient man.

Hasn't even felt her lips yet. He could, if he wanted to. Ben shakes his head, huffing a breath as he lays her down, returning to the sofa and collecting the duvet.

He takes a moment to look at her before laying it over her body, patting the plush fabric around to make her comfy and warm. Ben shuffles awkwardly, backing away.

She stirs, and he looks, chewing on his lip.

"You can lay down if you want." Again, her voice is muffled by sleep, blurring the words.

"You're sure?" He cares about her. Doesn't want her to feel pressured.

"Mhm."

Ben begins to edge out of his boots, sitting at the edge of the bed and slipping them off, before taking off his flannel that's placed over his t-shirt, placing it on her bedside table. He leaves everything else on, wants to respect her. Loves her.

His blood pumps audibly through his ears.

He lays next to her and he could definitely be dreaming. Surely this is too lucky?

He stays still, wondering if he should be hugging her or stroking her, but she interrupts the thought, pulling herself closer to him. She's only just awake by the look on her face.

Her eyelashes flutter as he wraps himself around her, spooning her. Distracting her from the rain. Soon he's sinking into her pillow and just listening to the sound of her whimpers and breaths. Holding her tight. She'll never leave him.

It's not long before she's twitching, dreaming. He wonders what she's dreaming about. He hopes she dreams of him, just like he dreams of her. He deserves to be on her mind.

They're so close.

Ben could touch her, just a bit. He'd do it gently. She wouldn't know. Ben is gentle.

He held his breath, testing the waters with a simple word. "Hey," he murmurs, seeing if she was fully asleep or still hanging on. When there was no response he murmured it again, but still, no response.

He could.

The hand that was round her waist moved lower and lower, gripping her hip with a light hold. He shifted her back and her butt brushed against his clothed cock, creating just the right amount of friction.

His breath hitched, pulling her back to him again in a grinding motion. Controlling her motions.

Shit. It felt good. It felt really, really good.

He fumbled to unbutton his pants, fingers shaking whilst he pulled them halfway down his hips. Ben palmed himself before pressing up against her again. He kept his underwear on.

Curling her hips to him before setting them back and doing it again, letting small moans of pleasure escape as he did.

He wanted to feel her. Wanted to feel her flesh against his own, wanted to feel her warmth, wanted to feel her engulf him. Feel her stretch around him. But Ben is patient.

This'll be enough to satiate him, for the time being.

A tremble rocked his body, and he knew he wouldn't last much longer. Concentrating the friction on the tip, inducing a groundbreaking amount of pressure and sensitivity.

"Fuck. Such a sweet girl, aren't you?" She didn't respond, but that did nothing to sway him. "Making me so desperate, letting me be intimate with you. You're such a good—such a g-good girl."

He couldn't stop the deep groan which left his mouth after orgasming, ejaculated right then and there. In his underwear.

He'd never been so desperate to cum before. But god, she looked so peaceful he couldn't help it. Zipping his trousers up and wrapping a tight arm around her waist, locking her in for the afterglow. She's all he can smell.

One thing was for sure.

He was going to kill Armitage Hux.

[eloves-writes]

a failed attempt to hate you

(tristan dugray)

a/n: i can only apologise if this writing is terrible, i wrote most of this in the middle of the night hopped up on medication for my disgusting cold. i hope it makes sense. anywho thanks for reading, enjoy, mwah <3

screw mr medina for making you help tristan study. you knew he knew from rory your inherent disdain for him, and it wasn’t your fault he was falling behind therefore not your responsibility to help him (as you had told mr medina last tuesday, with no effect). it was now sunday morning and you held little hope he would actually show up this time; he had somehow managed to cancel on your little study date 6 times already and it had only been 5 days since you were handed this apparently mammoth task. honestly, you didn’t expect him to show up at all, especially not anytime before noon- for which reasons you had made the decision put on your usual lazy sunday morning reading in bed get-up, which included (but was not limited to) an oversized rock concert shirt rory’s friend lane had given you in an attempt to clear her closet of non-christian attire, nothing but underwear underneath since you wouldn’t plan on leaving the comfort of your bedsheets for many hours, and a loose silk scrunchie you accidentally stole from rory keeping your hair out of your eyes. 

your book of choice today was ‘harry potter and the goblet of fire’ , the most recently released chapter of the boy wizard’s adventures at hogwarts. the clock beside you read 9:15 as you comfied yourself for a morning of magic and adventure, which naturally was ended a mere 8 minutes later at 9:23 when the doorbell rang downstairs. you assumed your mother would answer it, but when it rang a second time you remembered your parents had both gone out to watch your sibling’s soccer match and you’d have to get it yourself.

it didn’t even cross your mind to put pants on, or that it may not be the postman at the door, until you opened it to see your very favourite chilton student whose eyes had hastily wandered to your bare legs. typical high school boy, you thought to yourself before your brain actually grasped the situation and kick started into action.

‘tristan. hi.’ you said with a slight shock in your voice.

‘erm, hi. i hope i’m not interrupting anything,’ he smirked, glancing down at your thighs again.

you rolled your eyes so aggressively you hoped mr medina could hear it from wherever he was spending his day, irritating boy-less and free to do whatever he wanted with his time.

‘you’re not,’ you quipped. ‘i just didn’t expect you to actually show up this time. and early may i add, i’m sure we said 11.’

‘we did, but i’ve got plans later so i thought i’d come by earlier and get this over with.’

‘how did you know i didn’t have plans? i might have been busy before 11.’

he pulled a face of amusement and you could swear you saw a hint of sarcasm shining through his eyes too. ‘right. are you done talking now or can i come in?’

‘you can come in, i guess,’ you sighed, closing the door behind him and showing him to the kitchen table. ‘wait here, i’ll go and get my books.’

‘grab some pants whilst you’re at it.’

‘stop talking,’ you called as you walked upstairs.

you came back downstairs a few minutes later fully-clothed and carrying your english notes to see that tristan had wandered from the chair you specifically remembered telling him to sit in, and was instead tracing a finger along the bookcase that stretched across the far wall of your living room. for a moment you just watched him nosey into your life; the framed certificates, the family photos, the 5 tapes of ‘beauty and the beast’ stacked atop of each other because it was your favourite film when you were 9 and practically every living relative had bought you a copy. beside those was a picture of you dressed as princess belle at disneyworld with chocolate ice cream smeared from cheek to cheek, a huge smile plastered between. tristan picked it up and turned to face you.

‘thoroughly adorable. seriously, you should go for this look more often.’

‘ha ha,’ you grimaced, snatching it off him and placing it back on the shelf. ‘are we studying or reminiscing on my past fashion choices?’ 

‘oo, someone’s in a good mood this morning huh,’ he teased. you pulled another face, once again silently cursing mr medina for completely ruining not just your day, but in fact your whole week. by god this boy got more irritating the more time you spent with him- it had only been 10 minutes, but it was 10 minutes longer than you ever previously had or ever wanted to.

 ‘can i get a drink before we start?’ he asked, redirecting the conversation and walking past you back into the kitchen. he began opening various cupboards, searching for a glass. ‘where’s the-’

‘why yes, tristan. you can have a drink,’ you snarked, opening the cupboard behind him with a dramatic flourish. he raised his eyebrows at you and reached forward to grab a glass, leaning over you as he did so. you caught a whiff of his cologne and almost forgot to dislike him for a moment.

‘there’s, um, soda in the ... fridge,’ you told him, voice unwillingly faltering as he looked down to meet your eyes. he had pretty eyes. pretty, blue, sparkling, stupid, annoying, asshole eyes. 

you found the thick tension sickening. you refused to be another girl at school who simply swooned over him when he walked past your locker. you didn't like him. you were here to teach him english. because he was dumb. and actually, his eyes weren’t that nice.

he grabbed a soda out of the fridge and you both sat down at the table and began reading through your analysis of ‘to kill a mockingbird’, adamantly pretending not to see him staring at you the whole time. 

why? he had had every popular and pretty girl in the whole of chilton, how was he ever so starved of female attention that he would look at you so admirably when you liked to make it clear you despised him? in fact, you enjoyed making a special effort to flip him off, or pull a face at him when he walked by, or kick his chair extra hard in spanish, or... oh shit. you had seen it from an outside point of view now, and it was glaringly obvious; maybe you did like him, just a little bit. shit. rory owed lorelai 10$ and a cheeseburger from luke’s, though you didn’t want to have to admit she was right when she’d said you were like a kindergarten boy pulling a girl’s ponytails because he thought she was pretty.

‘hey tristan,’ you started, breaking the comfortable silence between his questions and suddenly nervous to talk to him. stupid, it was still the exact same boy you’d been complaining about all week, nothing new. 

he looked up from your notes. ‘what’s up princess?’ 

that was definitely new.

‘don’t call me princess’ -he smirked irritatingly- ‘do you need to stay much longer? i mean, is there anything else you want help with?’

‘trying to get rid of me?’

‘no! no. i just thought that you’d only stay and pretend to listen to me for like, half an hour then vanish. it’s 11:30 and you’ve been through my whole binder.’

‘it is? time flies.’

‘tristan.’

‘i do care about my grades, you know. and you’re a good teacher, i might have a chance at an A.’

‘why didn't you show up the last 6 times we planned then?’

he put down his pen- your pen, actually. it had pink sparkles on the lid. ‘got to keep up my street cred.’

‘ha ha. funny,’ you replied as blankly as possible, pulling back a smile you could feel in your stomach. you made eye contact again and, like every other time since you’d sat down and started studying, you held each other’s gaze for longer than necessary. funny how realising you like someone makes you suddenly act like it.

‘i should get going then right,’ he said, picking his jacket from the back of his chair.

you felt weird, almost as if you didn't want him to leave after praying earlier he wouldn't show up. alas, your parents would be home soon and you would be willing to bet money that tristan would have some interesting jokes about your being home alone that would not slide with your dad.

‘yeah. i hope you get that A,’ you said, accidentally smiling as you walked him to the door.

tristan turned to lean on the frame of the now-open door and put on a face of mock surprise. ‘my, my, y/n. was that a kind comment and a smile? you’re spoiling me.’

‘shut up, i hope you fail.’

he smiled back. ‘you really mean that?’

‘i guess not.’

there was yet another beat of heavy silence.

‘see you monday.’

‘see you monday.’

you closed the front door as he walked down the drive, but noticed tristan’s car keys still sat on the kitchen table. a porsche, of course. you picked them up and reopened the door to his fist poised to knock. the two of you laughed awkwardly for a second.

‘i forgot my-’

‘you forgot your-’

another awkward laugh. jesus christ this was uncomfortable. you passed him the keys, and with absolutely no warning at all, your lips were suddenly met with his. they were soft and confident, and his free hand held your face as you tried to process the new situation. you quickly melted into the kiss, letting him take control until he pulled away and smiled that sparkly smile you didn't hate as much as you tried to.

‘didn't see that one coming,’ you said breathily, brushing some loose hairs off of your face.

‘i knew you didn’t hate me.’

‘ever the arrogant twat.’

‘hey, does this mean you’ll stop kicking my chair in spanish?’

‘absolutely not. in fact, i think i’ll kick it harder.’

‘as long as you let me do that again.’

tags: @leossmoonn for inspiring me to start writing again, @account123445 & @lmaoidekanymore6 for asking me to post tristan fics! (couldn’t figure out how to make the tags work but if you read this, you know ✨)

[evesaintyves]

Is tlm on hiatus? 😢

thank you so much for asking. it's not on hiatus but updates might be slow. i am almost done with chapter 9, though, and hope to post it by the end of the week!

i was feeling a bit disconnected from it since it had been so long and i'd gotten distracted by so many other projects. when i started rereading to try to get back into the spirit i was like, oh my god, i started this 6 months ago when i was a tiny stupid baby that didn't know shit 😱 in hindsight, it was a pretty ambitious first writing project! i don't know why i thought i could pull it off!

thanks, everybody who's been reading it, for your patience! and sorry to anyone who has sent me asks over the last couple of months that i haven't answered - it's truly nothing personal, i just get a little anxious about posting a lot on social media, so i'll repost ask games and then go oh fuck why did i volunteer to talk about myself

anyway, here's a (pre-editing 😬) snippet of the upcoming chapter (under the cut [warning for mild sexual content {i don't have anything else i just want to use the curly brackets too}]):

Last night had been painful. After she'd tried to get him off, he'd disappeared into the bathroom for so long that she'd eventually given up waiting, put out the light and tried to sleep. When he'd finally come out, he'd lain rigidly on his side on the farthest sliver of the bed, as if he felt he didn't deserve to take up much space.

Even that had been a tiny victory for her: she'd had to badger him into sleeping in the same room. No, fuck you, Remus, you're staying in here, she'd insisted. If your rib goes wrong in the night you're gonna need me, and it's just safer, and—that's all beside the point, anyway. We're partners and we need to stick together. We're a team. He'd barely been able to meet her eyes while she'd rubbed the anti-inflammatory potion into his chest (nor when she'd sat in his lap and stuck her hand down his trousers, for that matter), but he'd stayed.

And when she'd woken in the morning, his arm had been slung across her stomach and one of her legs was crooked over his knees. Like their bodies had snuck over and found each other under cover of darkness. His thumb had even sleepily stroked her hip for a moment before he'd realised where he was.

[butt-watch]

Deltarune Chapter 2 Theory

DELTARUNE SPOILERS AHEAD

I'll put under a read more, but just in case it doesn't work. Here's your warning to block "#delatrune spoilers" or scroll really fast.

Spoilers for end game and bonus boss, and a long ass dump of all the ideas I have in my head before I forget them. So, sorry if I got anything wrong or it's a mess.

I've seen a lot of theories flying around, but haven't seen this one yet. (Sorry if it is already out there and I just haven't seen it, I'm sure somebody will already have put it together better than me.) This is just some funky ideas I've been throwing around, because I'll be honest here, I love the main 3 so much, and would be sad to see any of them turn out to be evil like so many theories are suggesting.

Maybe I'm just trying to be optimistic, maybe it's the weird nb kid deep inside me latching onto a kindred spirit, maybe I'm on to something.

So here's the thing. I don't believe Kris is the knight.

I know, I know, but stay with me here.

There's no denying that at the end of the chapter, Kris created a new fountain, and with it, likely a new dark world. But I'd like to argue, this is the first one they've created. My evidence is shaky, but I think there's something there that could blossom.

I'll start off with the simple fact that multiple characters who have met the knight, Spades King especially, didn't recognise Kris at all, and you would have thought they'd recognise the person who's been feeding them so much information. You do also have a couple of dialogue options with the king this time, and definitely with the Queen, so it seems strange that neither of them recognise the voice of their Knight in shining armour.

This is where stuff starts to get a bit flaky, but also, a lot more intriguing.

At the end of the chapter Kris opened a fountain, and the night before, we saw Kris remove the soul inside them and brandish their knife. Assuming that Kris spent that time without the soul creating a fountain is a fair assumption to make, and I think it's possible that was Kris's intention, perhaps they have some connection to the knight, and knew how the fountains could be opened. But, they were missing one important ingredient.

In Chapter 2 we get an explanation from the Queen about how dark fountains are created, and with it a word that has largely been missing from Deltarune.

That's right, good old Determination.

Fountains are created when a determined Lightner plunges a sharp object into the ground. And here's where the theory comes in. I believe prior to the end of chapter 2, Kris didn't have Determination. Throughout the game, they've been filled with various sources of power, from Fluffy Boys and Mean Girls, to Cat signs. But at every save point we've been missing the signature Determination.

The closest we get is at the end of Chapter 2, just before the fight against the queen, when "a certain power" is alluded to.

And that lack of Determination, would have made opening the fountain impossible for them, after all, Queen spent the whole game building Noelle's determination high enough to open a new fountain. A smidge of determination doesn't seem to cut it.

So how did Kris get the determination?

Through the good old power of Friendship. Through the trials with their new friends, Kris has gained determination, even without the soul inhabiting them. And even though that started as half a joke (only half), whilst writing this post and trying to find screencaps, for the next section, I realised it's actually more likely than I suspected.

And that brings me to everyone's new favourite:

Spamton. During his dialogue and initial boss fight he offers a deal, rewarding Kris with [[Hyperlink Blocked]] if they accept. As far as I'm aware you're forced to accept the deal. (If anyone else tolerated more than a few minutes of smashing no deal like I did and managed to get a different outcome, kudos to your perseverance.)

What is [[Hyperlink Blocked]]? Well I'm sure you can guess where I'm going with this. I believe it may well be Determination or something similar.

During the initial confrontation, Spamton refers to the players Soul as [[HeartShapedObject]].

But prior to the boss fight against Spamton NEO, he has no qualms about saying SOUL.

I've seen a lot of people theorising Spamton is being censored, and I agree that definitely seems to be the case. From a meta standpoint though I think it's interesting that the [[Hyperlink Blocked]] he mentioned so much in his first encounter doesn't seem to be mentioned at all, now the he has slightly more freedom of speech. I personally believe it's because revealing whatever Spamton was offering would have given too much away.

So how does this come back to the power of friendship? Well, upon defeating Spamton, whether through ACTing or beating the crap out of him, he realises the real treasure was the friends we made along the way.

He suggests that together, the three of them could "break their own strings"

Following the fight, there's a moment, where Susie notices that Kris is acting out of sorts. Whichever option you choose, it's obvious that Kris is shaken by the event, even going as far as to yell the answer if you let them admit how they're feeling.

The similarity to Kris's own situation, being puppeted by the player is a valid reason for the response. Whatever shook them did so with enough effect that the fear showed despite the players control. Either that, or Kris has something they didn't have, more control. More... Determination to overcome the soul.

That last part is reaching a little, which is saying something, given the amount of shaky evidence presented in this post, so I want to wrap this up mostly with something slightly unrelated, but still a Kris theory.

Why do they open the fountain?

There are a lot of theories, about being a pawn for Gaster, being an asshole, etc.

I'd like to think Kris is just a weird kid who's gotten caught up in a mess they don't really understand. They created a scenario where Susie would be forced to stay the night, and opened up a new dark world, that Susie, their friend, expressed a want for before they left the dark world.

A place where they could get away from their lives for a little while and have more adventures together. And I can understand the reasoning, opening a new fountain isn't bad, I mean, as long as they close it at the end, nobody gets hurt and they have more memories. Where's the harm in that? Right?

As much as Kris obviously wishes to be free of the soul's control, that very soul has helped them make real friends. It's taken them on adventures and well.

Somebody had to let it out before the morning.

So to summarise, the strongest power known to man is a group of lonely teenagers, if you run through a peaceful game murdering everything and then blame a video game character for the decision you made, I'll kick your ass, and I guess I'm a Kris stan now, oh god.

[outlawsworld]

Trusting Strangers - Chapter 11

Arthur Morgan x Female reader

Summary: Arthur and reader have agreed not to let the camp know about their relationship but when Micha threatens you things start to surface.

Warnings: violence, swearing and fluff

Notes: Sorry it took me a bit longer then expected to get this chapter finished. I kept on deleting and rewriting it. I really hope you like it, please like and reblog if you do.

Chapter 1

--

  The morning light blinded you when you woke. You had to squint to allow your eyes time to get used to the brightness. Waking up in your tent was always slightly dark and gloomy but you had slept under the stars last night. You had woken up exactly how you fell asleep, laid in the grass opening surrounded by trees. With your head resting on Arthur's broad chest, your legs were now entangled slightly and his arms wrapped around you pulling your body close to his. His body was radiating heat which only made you cling onto him more. It had been a cold night and you hadn't made a campfire so that you could see as many stars in the night sky as possible. Waking up in Arthur's embrace sparked a fire in your chest and your smile beamed from ear to ear. You tilted your head up slowly to see that he was also awake.

''Mornin' beautiful'' his voice was husky as he had only just woken up. He smiled as he looked down to see your face looking up at him. Arthur's eyes were bright in the morning light, he looked well rested for once. His words made your heart flutter and you could feel the warm rush of blood to your cheeks.

''Mornin' Arthur'' you spoke sweetly. He leant down to place a kiss on your forehead. The both of you laid together for a while holding each other closely. You never wanted this moment to end however, knew you would both have to go back to camp eventually. You sat up, leaving Arthur's arms, making you shiver as the cold air brushed over you. ''I don't want to go back'' you admitted. "Not yet, anyway" Arthur sat up next to you smirking at your comment.

''Me neither'' he smiled nudging you slightly with his elbow. ''But you need some food. We didn't have much to eat yesterday so you must be starvin'.'' he stood up and held out his hand to you. The mention of food made your stomach growl, you had completely forgotten about food whilst being completely entranced in Arthur's company. You took Arthur's hand and he helped you to your feet. As you were about to turn and walk over to Siego, you felt Arthur's hand pull on yours spinning you back into his arms. His arms were now wrapped around your waist, pulling your body into his. Arthur looked deeply into your eyes. ''You ain't gettin' away that easy'' he smiled cheekily before leaning down and kissing you. Each kiss the two of you shared felt even better then the last. You wrapped your arms around his neck and stood on your tiptoes to allow the kiss to deepen. It was like the world around you disappeared, leaving just the two of you together. You were unsure when the next time the both of you would be alone together so you had to make the most of the time you had. A nickering sounds jumped you both back into reality. You broke the kiss to see what had caused the noise, with your hand placed on your holster ready for someone to appear. When you realised it was just Siego you both began to laugh at your reactions.

''Come on, Cowboy'' you tapped the brim of Arthur's hat causing it to cover his eyes. He released you from his embrace to sort his hat back on top of his head. You took this opportunity to run to Siego and mount the saddle. Arthur smirked and cocked an eyebrow at you.

''And what do you think you're doin'?'' he chuckled at you.

''It's my turn to ride and your turn to sit there lookin' pretty'' you teased him. He shook his head at you with an amused smile. You held your hand out to help him up as he mounted to sit behind you. He placed his hands on your waist and you couldn't help the smirk on your face.

"Shut up" Arthur scoffed as you rode back to camp. You could tell he wasn't enjoying being the passenger on his own horse which only made you tease him more.

The camp wasn't far from where you were. You hoped, as you rode into camp, that you and Arthur would be able to sneak off to on occasions to spend time alone under the stars. You both were very private people so you weren't too keen on telling the whole camp about your relationship. The thought of being pestered and asked questions on the subject was daunting. Talking about your feelings to one another was hard enough, never mind telling others as well. You both decided for now to keep your relationship between the two of you and when you were ready you would tell the others.

''Who's there?'' Javier called out to you.

''Arthur, you dumbass'' Arthur yelled back. You smirked at his comment as Javier rolled his eyes.

''Welcome back'' Javier spoke sarcastically before turning back to watch the track into camp. You both dismounted and you hitched Siego to the post. The smell of food made your stomach cramp as you made your way over to Pearson's cart. Arthur passed you some bread with jam and an apple before grabbing his own food.

''Go on, get yourself a coffee. I need to go talk to Lenny'' Arthur gestured at the young man sitting on a log looking out over the water. You nodded in reply before heading to sit by the fire. Charles was sitting on one of the logs as you made your way over to sit beside him.

''You're alive then?'' he smiled up at you as you took your seat.

''Just about'' you smirked as you began to tuck into your food.

"Good, I was beginning to wonder where you had gotten too" Charles was busy stringing his bow. "I nearly went out looking for you this morning" he looked at you relieved.

"Thanks Charles, I just got lost in the dark. Luckily, Arthur found me" you lied. Your cheeks were aching from smiling at the thought of last night as you ate your food. Charles was too focused on his bow to notice. You glanced over to the horses when the sudden realisation that you still hadn't checked to see if Dallas had returned to camp flooded you. You stuffed the last bit of bread into your mouth as you stood from the log and ran over to the horses. ''Shit, shit, shit'' you whispered under your breath as you couldn't see him with the others.

''You looking for Dallas?'' Charles ran after you.

''Yes, have you seen him?'' your voice was slightly panicked as you scanned the camp.

''No, I haven't but I'm sure he will be fine'' he reassured you.

''What's going on?'' Hosea asked as he approached you with John following close behind.

''Dallas hasn't come back'' you took a deep breath to try and relax. You know that to some people it would seem silly to get worried over a horse but Dallas was more than that. He was not only a very good horse but he was a gift from Arthur.

''Well I ain't doing anything today so we can go find him'' John patted Charles on the shoulder as he made his way over to Old Boy. "You comin' Charles?".

''I can't, I've got to go hunting or Pearson will never stop pestering me'' Charles sighed.

''Take Silver Dollar, my girl. I'm sure you and John will find him soon enough'' Hosea pointed to his horse. He must have sensed the concern in your voice as he tried to reassure you. ''Now, he's got a good spirit but don't let him get the better of you'' he took you over to his horse and patted him on the neck as you mounted up.

''Thank you Hosea. I'll take good care of him'' you smiled at him.

''I know you will'' he patted your leg. ''You better get going''. You looked over to see John was mounted and ready to go so you spurred Silver Dollar into a trot and headed out of camp. John followed closely behind you until you came to the open road where he rode next to you.

''So where do we start?'' John asked.

''I have no idea'' you sighed feeling like this might be a lost cause. ''He could be anywhere by now''.

''We will find him, don't worry'' John smiled assuringly at you. ''Where did you last see him? We can start there''. You nodded and told John what happened yesterday. With that you rode out to the house where you last saw Dallas. The both of you stayed hidden in the woods as you approached the house. You didn't want to get caught by any patrols that may still be lerking in the area. The barn where you had hidden only hours ago was now a pile of ash. You could smell the burnt timber and the smoke that was still rising to the air. Bodies were laying motionless in the grass that hadn't been moved yet. It looked as though no one was around but you didn't want to spend too much time lingering just in case. ''Looks like you had a fun night'' John smirked at you as you glanced around to see any sign of the missing horse.

''I wouldn't have put it that way'' you glanced at him innocently. ''I think he went this way, through the woods'' you pointed in the direction away from the house. John took the lead and followed in the direction you pointed. He managed to find some hoof prints in the soft ground below. You both followed them as it was the only lead you had.

''So how are you holdin' up? Last time we spoke you were drunk as hell'' he chuckled at you. You shook your head as you pinched the bridge of your nose.

''I'm alright, don't remind me'' you smirked. ''I never thanked you for looking after me John. I would have been a lot worse the next mornin' if it weren't for you''.

''Ahh It's the least I can do'' John smiled sweetly at you.

''How about yourself? How are you holding up?'' you asked as you scanned the floor, making sure you were still following the right tracks.

''I'm as good as I can be'' John replied with his eyes hidden by the brim of his hat. You sensed something was off with him but you couldn't quite tell what it was.

''Is something wrong?'' you questioned shyly, scanning his face for his reaction. For the first time in a long time you properly looked at John. His deep cuts were now just healed scars across his face and lip. His black hair just grazing his shoulders but was mostly hidden by his hat dark grey hat. John had dark features and short black stubble gracing his face. He was only in his mid twenties but looked like he had lived many lives already. You could understand why Abigail felt the way she did about John, he was clearly a very handsom man. He was smaller in fame compared to Arthur and Charles but he was still well built and strong. He let out a long sigh before looking back at you. John's eyes caught yours and you could see the sadness in them.

''It's Jack and Abigail. I know I haven't been great to either of them but whenever I try I just seem to mess things up. We just fight constantly and I'm tired of it'' he shook his head turning his gaze to the floor again. ''I don't even know how to talk to my own son'' he scoffed.

''I'm sorry John, It ain't a situation I know a lot about'' you paused. You knew how hard everything was for both John and Abigail. They hadn't gotten off to the best start when John took off and left both Abigail and Jack for a whole year. John was now trying to amend his mistakes but Abigail still held a grudge, which you could understand. ''I know it's tiring but don't give up on em. They need you more then you know. Abigail is just givin' you a hard time because she's been through a lot. It ain't right but you have to understand the reasons why she's actin' like she is'' you gave John a weak smile. You wanted to be there for him, much like how he is always there for you but you had no idea what you could say to help.

''Yeah I guess'' he smiled back. ''What an idiot I have been. I shouldn't have run off like that but I guess I just wasn't ready for such a commitment''.

''You'll make up for it. I know you will'' you looked deeply into his eyes to try and assure him that everything will work itself out.

"We will see. I wish she was as easy to speak to as you, (Y/N)" John chuckled.

"I..." You were cut off by a loud screech coming from deeper in the woods. It sounded like an animal in pain and without thinking you spurred the horses on in the direction it was coming from. As you approached you could hear the screeching getting louder. At the bottom of a hill, hidden behind some trees you spotted Dallas struggling to move. He had his leg trapped in a snare set out by hunters to catch game. Quickly, you dismounted and ran over to him. The leg that was caught was bleeding from where the wire was cutting deeper into his leg. You could see the white of his eye, he was breathing heavily as he was panicking. He was trying to break free from the trap which only tightened the wire around his leg. ''Whoa, calm down boy. It's alright'' you managed to grab the reins and pat his neck to try and calm him down. John was looking over the trap to try and find where the wire was tied so that he could release it. You were flooded with guilt as you looked into Dallas' terrified face. He had been here all night, scared and in pain, while you were cuddling up to Arthur. John managed to release the wire, causing Dallas to try and bolt as he felt he was now free. You clung to the reins as he battled with you to let him go. ''Steady boy. You're okay now'' you spoke calmly. It wasn't long before Dallas calmed enough for John to remove the wire from his leg.

''There you are fella'' he patted the black stallion. ''See, he's alright'' he assured you as he threw the wire to the side. You looked at the deep gash around Dallas' pastern where the wire had been tightened. It wasn't deep but it looked sore and could get infected if not treated properly.

''Lets get you back to camp boy'' you felt relieved. You decided to lead Dallas back so tied his reins to the horn of Hosea's saddle before mounting Silver Dollar. ''Didn't think I would see you again, my friend'' you giggled as you and John headed back towards camp. ''Thank you for helpin' me find him John'' you shouted to John who was leading the way back.

''My pleasure'' he smiled back at you whilst tipping his hat. ''I'm just glad we found him. I know how much you care for him". The two of you rode slowly as Dallas was hobbling slightly on his injured leg. John began telling you stories of when he was young and how Dutch taught him how to read and write. You laughed along as he told you how Dutch would loose his patients when John couldn't get the hang of it. It was early evening by the time you had made it back to camp. You were greeted by Hosea and Dutch at the hitching posts.

''Ahh so you found him'' Dutch bellowed over to you as you approached them.

''Yeah, he was caught on a snare, no wonder he didn't come back'' you nodded as you dismounted Silver Dollar. ''Thank you for lettin' me borrow him Hosea'' you untied Dallas' reins from the saddle and hitched him on the post.

''Not a problem my girl. I gather he looked after you well'' he smiled at you tieing HS horse to the post.

"He did indeed" you turned to patt Silver Dollar on his neck and feed him a carrot from your bag.

''John, (Y/N), I have a job for you both'' Dutch caught your attention. You all gathered round the hitching post as Dutch explained the job. ''I need you both to look into something for me. Sheriff Grey told me about a couple of horses at the Braithwaite property. I don't know the in's and out's but if you could go to the Greys plantation at some point to find out more, I think there will be some money in it for us'' Dutch's voice was eager when he mentioned the money.

''Sure, Dutch'' you nodded.

''We can go tomorrow mornin'. First thing'' John agreed.

''Brilliant. I knew you two would be up to the job'' Dutch exclaimed as he patted you both on the shoulder. ''Oh, take Javier with you too'' he instructed before him and Hosea took their leave. You turned your attention back to Dallas' cut, luckily the bleeding had stopped now so you grabbed some water to clean the wound. John stayed with you as he brushed down Old Boy and Charles came to help when he got back from hunting. He gave you some herbs to put on the cut to stop infections which you gently applied to Dallas' leg. Once you were done, the three of you made your way back into camp to get some food. You noticed that Micah was back. He hadn't been at camp since Arthur had broken him out of jail but you saw him sat by the fire as you made your way over. You had only ever spoken to Micah once or twice but you always remembered him being cruel when you were tied to the wagon all those weeks ago. He used to threaten to kill you or would spit at you as he walked by. Nothing about the man was likable to you, so you were not so pleased he was back.

''Scarface, you happy to see me back?'' Micah directed his question at John as he chuckled under his breath.

''Micah, I would have preferred to see you hang'' John spat back at him as you all sat around the fire.

''Oh, no need to be like that'' Micah threw his hands in the air in defence. You kept quiet, you didn't want to draw his attention to you so you just ate your food silently. By the time you had finished your stew and a bottle of beer the rest of camp had joined you round the fire. Sadie and Tilly came and sat next to you and you spoke to them about where you eventually found Dallas. Arthur also joined the group to sit around the fire, you looked up to see him sat opposite you. You caught his eyes on you and you shared a shy smile before turning your attention to the convocations you were in. Although you knew why it wasn't the best idea to have your feelings for each other public knowledge, you hated the idea of not being able to hold him or kiss him whilst you were in camp. You longed for his attention and seeing him sat across from you only made you crave him more. 

''How are things with you and Arthur?'' Sadie nudged you with her elbow, keeping her voice hushed. Panicked at the mention of your relationship, you looked round to see that Tilly had now turned her attention to Sean and Lenny. Once you realised It was only you and Sadie talking, you couldn't help the blushed smile that crossed your face.

''Things are good'' you whispered back glancing over at Arthur. He was talking with John and Bill as he smoked on a cigarette. The light from the cigarette end would illuminate his eyes, from the shadow cast by the bim of his hat, every time he took a drag.

''He keeps looking over at you'' Sadie teased and you turned your attention back to her. ''You're both gonna get found out you know. It's so damn obvious'' she glanced between you and Arthur.

''I don't think everyone is as observant as you Sadie'' you giggled glancing round the rest of camp. ''I'm pretty sure if anyone thought anything, either Karen or Mary-Beth would have asked by now. They have only just stopped asking me if I'm sweet on anyone'' you both giggled and you heard your stomach growl. You were still hungry even after a bowl of stew and you remembered having a tin of biscuits in your saddle bag. As your stomach started to growl louder you decided the pack of biscuits were too tempting not to have so you excused yourself to go and get them. You walked over to the horses and grabbed the tin from your saddle bag, checking on Dallas as you passed him. On your way back to the fire you were met by Micah. His blonde hair was covered by the white hat he wore and his beady eyes were looking straight at you. He had clearly had a bit too much to drink as he was stumbling around as he walked in your direction. ''Micah'' you greeted him as you walked by. Your intentions were to walk straight by him and ignore any comments he made but his hand was quick to grab your arm and pull you back in front of him.

''That's no way to greet me girl'' he growled at you. The smell of liquor on his breath was overwhelming and his grip on your arm tightened. ''You're a pretty one ain't ya. Better than when you were tied to that wagon....Although I must admit you looked just as nice tied up'' he snickered as he looked at you up and down with hunger in his eyes. You pulled your arm from his grasp forcefully and he almost lost his balance.

''Go to hell Micah'' you spat back at him. A cruel grin appeard his face as you spoke to him. It was as though he liked it when people dispised him. He regained his balance and blocked your way back to camp by towering over you.

''I like a girl with a bit of fire'' he smirked and grabbed your throat, holding it tightly. ''I'll show you how you treat a real man'' he whispered in your ear. His breath ran cold down your neck and your body tensed. You used all the force you could muster to slap him across the face but he intercepted your arm before you could make an impact. His laugh was taunting you which only made you more angry, your knee came up to hit him in his stomach and he released his grip on you as he grasped his belly. ''Bitch, ain't you'' his amusement faded which was replaced by pure anger and you were the one in the firing line. You reached for your pistol to defend yourself but you had taken your gun belt off as you ate, leaving it by the fire. As you looked up from your empty hip, Micah had reached for his knife and was already holding it at your throat. He leant into you and took a deep breath in, taking in your smell before smiling devilishly at you. "Ain't so tough without a gun, are ya?". Your heart was racing as you had nothing to defend yourself with. The metal of his knife blade against your neck was cold and sent a shiver down your spine.

"Just you wait" you taunted him as you felt the hilt of your own knife in your back pocket. You were about to pull it on him when the distinct crack of a pistol being cocked came from behind Micah. 

''Get your goddamn hands off her Micah'' Arthur growled. He was standing with the barrel of his pistol aimed at Micah's head. The sound of his angered voice bellowed through camp, and conversation were suddenly silenced. All the camp's attention had turned to the three of you and Micah remained unmoved.

''Come on Cowpoke, I'm just havin' a bit of fun here'' Micah kept the knife on your throat but his attention was on Arthur.

''Fun's over'' Arthur moved in closer with a darkness in his eyes as he looked at Micah. His gun was now placed against Micah's temple and his finger ready at the trigger. You glanced between the two men as Micah weighed up his options. He turned back to you before removing his knife from your neck and putting it back in his belt. Arthur then lowered his gun and placed it into the halter at his hip. John, Dutch and Sadie had made their way over, after hearing the commotion in case they had to intervene. You took a deep breath in releasing your grip on the hilt of your knife as Micah stepped away from you. He sighed loudly before laughing at Arthur.

''If I didn't know you any better I would have said you cared for this girl, Mr Morgan. You're going soft'' his voice was slurred. Micah stumbled on his way to square up to Arthur. He stood directly in front of him and you watched as Arthur towered above him. 

''I should 'av left you in jail to hang'' Arthur spat back. His brow was furrowed and his jaw was clenched. Micah cocked his eyebrow with a smile on his face.

''So what's she like in bed?'' Micah ignored his comment, he knew he was getting under Arthur's skin and he was enjoying the attention. Arthur's fists clenched shut. You glanced at John to try and stop this madness but he looked between you and Arthur, open mouthed, at what Micah was suggesting. You were about to grab Arthur yourself and walk away, Micah was not worth the time and you had enough of his torments. ''Send her to my tent when you're done, she looks like a wild one'' Micah sniggered. That was all it took to break Arthur's temper. His face turned red and is fist came up and hit Micah in the jaw as hard as he could. Micah fell to the floor with a thud. Dutch and John were quick to grab Arthur's arms and hold him back before he did any further damage.

"Touch her again and I'll give you more then a broken nose" Arthur threatened as he was getting pulled away by John and Dutch. The rest of camp were staring at the scene playing out in front of them. You stood there frozen, unaware of what to do. The damage had already been done. Although you know you shouldn't have, you felt a deep satisfaction watching Micah being knocked onto his arse.

''That is enough'' Dutch shouted as he pulled Arthur away from Micah. ''Micah, go get cleaned up. Arthur, go calm down'' he gestured to the both of them. Micah's nose was running with blood from the impact. He fumbled to his feet and walked straight back into camp to clean up while Arthur marched into the woods away from everyone. You were left standing with Dutch, John and Sadie watching as the two men strode away. ''(Y/N), you alright?'' Dutch asked you as he placed a hand on your shoulder. You nodded in response, still trying to process what had just happened. "Good, I'm going to go have a chat with Micah" Dutch informed you as he followed the beaten man back into camp.

''What the hell was that about?'' John asked. He glanced at you catching your eye before he averted his gaze to the floor. There was a concerned expression on his face but for some reason he wouldn't look at you.

''Micah grabbed me and Arthur stood in to defend me'' you huffed rubbing your throat where the knife had been sitting.

"What was Micah getting at then? Because Arthur was gettin' pretty wound up" John questioned his voice loud and irritated as he regained his breath from trying to restrain Arthur. Your breath got hitched in your mouth as you panick. The palm of your hands become sweaty and you didn't know how to answer. You had no intention of telling the gang any time soon about your relationship with Arthur.

''I should go check on him'' you looked in the direction Arthur had stormed off ignoring John's question.

"Sure you are alright?" Sadie asked as she saw the panick in your face.

"Yeah, I'm fine" you nodded before you turned away to follow after Arthur. You followed the fresh tracks in the ground until you found Arthur sitting under a tree with his back leant up against it. His head was hanging low with his hat covering his eyes.

''Thank you'' you spoke softly as you approached him. He lifted his head up to look at you. ''I always knew he was a piece of shit but I didn't know quite how true that was'' you tried to lighten the mood. Arthur's hands were still in fists but he couldn't help the small smile on his face when he saw you.

''Yeah, that's one way of putting it'' he growled. ''You alright?'' he stood up and glanced at your neck making sure Micah hadn't left a mark on you.

''I'm fine'' you smiled as you wrapped your arms around Arthur's waist and buried your head into his chest. He pulled you in closer to him and placed a kiss on the top of your head. You took a deep breath allowing yourself to relax in his arms.

''I should av' killed the bastard'' he mumbled. ''If he ever touches you again then I will'' he tightened his grip on you.

''That's if I don't do it first'' you giggled as you pulled away and grabbed his hand to see the bruises that were already forming on his knuckles. "You shouldn't have punched him" you grazed the bruise with your fingertips before looking up into Arthur's eyes.

"He deserved it" he defended himself. "He's lucky that's all he got" his brow furrowed. You smiled shyly at him knowing he was only this angry because he cared for you. Having someone help to defend you was still something you were going to have to get used to but you were greatful for him. It made you feel safer, knowing that you had Arthur watching out for you. The temper he has that you used to be weary of you knew would never be directed at you but only used to defend you. You stayed with him in the woods for a while until he was fully calmed down. You both sat under a tree whilst he told you about his day with Lenny at a place called Shady Bell and then how he and Micah robbed a bank coach which the O'Driscolls ended up turning up to as well. ''Sounds more interesting then my day'' you smiled up at him. ''I went to find Dallas with John'' you chuckled.

''Sorry I couldn't help ya" he scratched the back of his neck. "Least you had John to help you find him'' Arthur's voice was relaxed now as you sat close to one another.

"You help me plenty enough. Plus John isn't bad company. I just feel sorry for you havin' to spend time with Micah" you teased him. Arthur smirked at you before gently moving a strand of hair away from your face, caressing your cheek before leaning down and kissing you softly. He then rested his forehead on yours. ''You are so beautiful'' he whispered softly. Your chest filled with a warm sensation and your heart stopped beating for a split second. Everything you felt towards Arthur seemed to double in intensity everyday, heat ran to your cheeks as you looked at him. His deep blue eyes captivated you in a trance that you never wanted to leave. He smiled sweetly before looking at the ground. ''We better go back before someone comes to check on us'' he mumbled, looking slightly upset at the prospect of going back into camp. You both stood up and shared one last kiss before making your way back into camp.

''I think I'm going to go get some rest'' you turned to Arthur. You saw the majority of the gang we're still gathered around the fire and you didn't want to face them just yet. The late nights were also catching up to you as you could feel your eyelids getting heavier.

''Alright, I'll see you in the mornin'.'' Arthur smiled. You didn't want him to leave you, you wanted him to come in and spend the night with you again and you could see in his eyes he wanted that too. It felt like a large lump had formed in your throat, you swallowed hard. Arthur hesitated before tipping his hat to you with a nervous smile. ''G'night (Y/N)'' he turned and walked towards his own cot, leaving a sense of loneliness lingering around you. You walked into your tent and got changed into your nightwear before laying on your cot and covering yourself with the blanket. The events of the night played through your head. The way Micah grabbed you and spoke about you to Arthur in front of the others. Arthur's reaction was bound to make people ask questions and you weren't ready for that. The thought of tomorrow made you feel uneasy, everyone pestering you about your relationship with Arthur, but at least you were on a job with John. He was your closest friend in camp and he always made you feel comfortable so you hoped he wouldn't question you again. Being away from camp should take your mind of things. You felt your eyes get heavy as you drifted off into a deep sleep.

--

Chapter 12

@nena-ma

[lauwrite1225]

Somebody to die for.

Finan x OC; The Old Guard inspired Alternative Universe

Summary : Victoria's life is rather simple until she has a car accident from which she ends up miraculously unscathed. A series of weird events animates her daily life, everything seemingly bringing her to a strange man. Until this very man knocks at her door.

Spotify Playlist • Masterlist

A/N : And there it is, the first chapter of this fic I have been working on for a few weeks now! I'll post every Friday! A very BIG thank you too @maggiescarborough​ for all her precious help and thanks to whom this is story is way better than originally ahah!

Warnings : mention of blood and death

Chapter 1 : I'm fallin' so I'm takin' my time on my ride

“Vicky you shouldn’t drive home so late.”

Victoria sighs as she climbs down the few stairs from her parents’ house down to the garden, her mother following her close. It’s dark and the motion detector activates the outdoor light, making the little path leading to where she parked her car more visible. 

“Stay for the night at least, you can leave early.” Her mother insists, arms crossed upon her chest to protect herself from the cold.

“I can’t mom.” She unlocks her car, throwing her bag on the passenger seat before turning around and leaning against the door. “I have to open the shop tomorrow and I don’t want to be late if there’s too many people on the road.” 

“That’s not safe, Vicky.”

“Come on, mom, it’s not the first time I’m driving during the night.” She exhales, sitting in the car and starting it. “I’ll text you when I’m home.” She smiles, ignoring her mother’s eye roll and closing the door. 

She slowly drives away from her parents' house, an old house lost in the middle of Essex. Her mother wasn't wrong about the risk of driving during the night on country roads, but Vicky took this road so many times, she's not really worried. She turns on the radio and turns the sound up when she recognizes the melody of Ride by Twenty one Pilots. Her fingers tap the steering wheel in rhythm with the drum, her head nodding regularly. She knows that song by heart and can't resist singing the lyrics as she drives in the direction of London. 

After half an hour of driving, a heavy rain is now falling, Vicky starts to regret not having listened to her mother. She woke up early this morning to be in time for the family lunch her parents have been harassing her about for a month. She yawns, her hand passing through her blond hair as she drives on a small quite deserted road. She tries to turn up the music louder to not fall asleep, but inevitably, her head starts to nod and her eyelids grow heavier. She closes her eyes, just one second, but when she opens them again, she’s blinded by the headlights of another car in front of her. Panicked, she hits the brake with all her strength, a slew of insults escaping her lips. The person in the vehicle in front seems to do the same and swerves. But inevitably, the two cars meet and the shock makes Vicky’s head hit the steering wheel violently.

For a long moment, it’s just darkness and silence and Victoria finds it awkwardly peaceful. She feels weak and out of her body, the strangest feeling she has ever felt. She can’t tell how long she’s been that way but suddenly it vanishes. She’s overwhelmed by all her senses who awaken at the same time. She panics, the feeling of her heart beating resounding in her whole body and the air painfully filling her lungs. She abruptly opens her eyes, straightening until the back of her head hits the car seat. 

It takes her a few minutes to calm her breath and to realize where she is, morning’s light blinding her. She’s still in her car, the windshield broken in a million pieces dispersed everywhere. She quickly notices the blood on the steering wheel and her clothes and immediately she brings her fingers to her forehead and indeed she finds fresh blood, but no wound. It should have reassured her, however it horrifies her. She tries to open the door and has to force it to finally leave the car. In the process, she falls on the floor and crawls to move away from the vehicle. The sleeves of her shirt are torn and stained with blood, but again, she’s perfectly healthy. Her confusion makes her sick and she leans on a side to throw up, her whole body shaking with a long thrill. 

Once her stomach is emptied she starts to look around her, now that there’s daylight she is able to see the fields that expand as far as the eye can see. She’s alone on this road, with her car with smoke coming out of the hood and absolutely no sign of the other vehicle. She stands on her feet, her legs shaking, and walks a little further to see if there’s anyone.

“They fucking left me alone.” She grumbles as she realizes she really was utterly alone. 

She walks back to her car and grabs her bag and jacket before searching her phone. When she finally has a hand on it, she sighs of relief. Though it doesn’t last long as she discovers how the screen is cracked. 

“New car and new phone it is, then.” Victoria speaks to herself, more to try to stay calm than anything. Fortunately, it’s still working but she realises right after that there's no signal. “Obviously.”

She looks around her one last time before facing the facts, she has to walk back home. She fills her bag with the important papers stacked in her car before walking away. After a quarter hour of walking, she starts to recognize where she is and estimates she should arrive in a village in another quarter hour. This time alone gives her the occasion to try to understand what happened last night. She obviously got into a car accident and the other person involved let her on her own, didn't even try to search for help, it is morning now, in six hours at least, if they left to find help, they should have already been back. No, they left her on her own as if she was dead. 

Victoria stops, the thought troubling her. She can't explain what she felt after the accident, she has already fainted a few times in her life, and it has never been like this before. But what is even more troubling, is that she's perfectly healthy, not even a scratch despite the blood she found on her clothes and in the car. Nothing is making sense.

She covers her face with both of her hands, then rubs her eyes as waking up from a bad dream. But she's still in the middle of a road, in the middle of nowhere. 

“What the hell?!” She shouts, frustrated by so much incomprehension. 

She continues to walk, she wipes the blood from her face before she reaches the village and puts her jacket on to hide the state of her clothes. She has no idea of what happened and she definitely doesn't want to have to explain it to anyone. She finishes her way home with public transports, and it's past midday when she arrives in London. She gets a few messages, from her boss and even more from her mother. She sends excuses to her boss with a lie and another lie to her mother, saying she fell asleep and forgot to text her before. 

Once she's in her small flat, she rushes to the shower after throwing her clothes in the washer. She stays at least an hour under the water, her mind playing the past events over and over until she's upset again. When she steps out of the shower, she’s starving. So she grabs the first thing she finds in her fridge, which happens to be the leftovers of her lunch from two days ago. She tries to remain distracted, turning on the TV and starting an episode of Game of Thrones, her best friend Rebecca has been harassing for a month to start watching the show. And for a brief hour, she’s captivated by the Battle of Bastards, and by how good looking Kit Harrington is in armor. 

The rest of the day is uneventful and when Rebecca visits her later in the afternoon Victoria hesitates to talk to her about her accident. But she’s pretty sure she’d simply think her completely crazy. 

“Are you alright, Vicky?” Rebecca eventually asks when she hands her a cup of tea. 

Victoria smiles kindly. “Yes.” She’s not used to lying to her best friend. They have known each other since middle school and she could count the number of times she lied to her on one hand, one being for her surprise birthday for her 18th birthday. “Why are you asking?”

She sits next to her friend on the couch, bringing her own cup of tea to her lips to blow on it. “I don’t know you’re very silent. And you said you weren’t feeling good this morning.”

“Oh… Well it was nothing, just felt nauseous.”

Rebecca narrows her dark eyes but doesn't push further. “How were your parents?” She asks, changing the subject, much to Vicky's pleasure.

“They were fine.” She takes a long sip of her tea. “They wondered if you'd like to come for dinner one day.”

Rebecca grins, her parents have always been pretty fond of her, even proposing her to join family events. It never bothered Victoria who was happy to have a friend with her. “Of course, I'll come. I just need a date.”

“I'll text you.”

Rebecca leaves after dinner and as soon as the door is closed Vicky falls into her bed, exhausted. She doesn't have time to overthink as usually when she tries to find sleep, she finds Morpheus' arms the moment she closes her eyes. But her sleep is far from being peaceful, her dreams bringing her sometime in the Middle Age, judging by the clothes of the men surrounding her. She's in the middle of a fight opposing warriors with long hair and tattooed faces and others with more modest appearance, only a fire alighting the area. She looks around her, trying to understand the scene, but her vision is almost constantly brought back to one of the warriors. It's a tall man, wearing leather armor above a greenish tunic, with dark hair and beard. He is using his sword with such ability, his movements swift and precise, Vicky can't help but be impressed. From the corner of her eyes she can see men falling and how trees seem to delimit a clearing. She looks up to the sky and can see the stars shining in the sky, never before she has seen them so clearly. Then, a sound catches her attention and she's staring at the warrior again. He is not fighting anymore, frozen and his face twisting into a grimace. She looks down to his abdomen in sync with him and she gasps as she sees the sword coming out of his belly. And it's like she can feel all his pain as the sword leaves his body, her guts tearing apart. The man coughs blood, falling on his knees, his hands pressed on the gaping hole in his abdomen. He finishes his fall, head first in the mud and Victoria can feel the life leaving his body as the man takes his last breaths, his brown eyes looking into the void. 

Victoria wakes up abruptly, sweating and panting. She presses a hand on her chest, desperately trying to calm her breath. Once she's calmed she pours herself a cup of water, still haunted by the sensation of her dream or maybe nightmare. She doesn't find sleep after that, so she just lies on her couch, watching TV, until morning comes and the hour she has to leave for work. 

It's only the first night of a dozen as sleepless. Most of the time, she finds herself in the Middle Age, in various places, some faces regularly appearing. Sometimes she's in other periods, even in modern days. But the common point to all her dreams is this man. Each time she can see him more clearly, his thick hair is most of the time cut short around his ears, a scar slashing his forehead while two small others are ornamenting his left cheekbone. One day, she decides to draw him, she spends the afternoon on it, but she's determined to make it as realistic as possible. As the lines darken the paper, she realizes how the man reminds her of someone. She sends the drawing to Rebecca without much explanation and she immediately replies to her that he reminds her of the guy from the conspiracy theory video they watched one late night. 

Victoria takes the time to search the video in her browser history, and indeed, Rebecca was right. The man is the spitting portrait of the one called the “time traveler”. She watches the video with probably much more interest than the first time, desperate to understand why he is haunting her nights. That's clearly the least credible story she has ever heard: a man, the same man, captured in pictures at different places and at different periods of time. A guy talented with photoshop could perfectly create this whole theory. She sighs, closing her laptop and just comes to the conclusion that her brain registered the man's face when she watched the video with Rebecca and simply has a fixation on it since. 

Curious to know the origins of the other faces she can see in her dreams, she draws them as well and she finds herself with three other men. The younger looking is blond with a bowl cut, a long face and an endearing smile. The two others look much more like warriors, one has long hair tied and shaved on the sides, his eyes a piercing blue, the other has different colour eyes and a tattoo covering the side of his neck. Once again, she sends her drawings to Rebecca but this time she has no idea of where she could have seen them. 

Days pass, the dreams don't fade but Victoria forgets about her accident and all the strange things that happened, until the police call her. Obviously, her car had to be found as she didn't call anyone to take care of it, she just wanted to forget what happened. She tries to give the best explanation to the police, telling them she's alright and shock made her forget to deal with her broken vehicle. After an hour on the phone they finally let her alone, adding that if she wanted to file a complaint there would probably not be a lot of results. She just replies that she will think of it, when in fact she won't at all.

As things couldn’t get weirder, one afternoon she meets an odd customer at the bookshop she’s been working for years now. She doesn’t notice him particularly, until she feels like he is staring at her behind his sunglasses. She tries to ignore him, but can’t resist staring back. He is wearing a grey sweatshirt, the hood covering his hair, but at the color of his beard she guesses it’s as dark. There’s something familiar to him and decided to understand what his problem with her is, she fully turns to face him. 

“Can I help you?”

The man seems to freeze, his hands sinking in the pockets of his trousers. He lowers his head and reads the badge with Victoria’s name on her jacket. He looks back to her and this time she raises an eyebrow, her arms crossing over her chest. 

“No that’s alright.” He mutters with an accent she doesn’t get in the moment. “Sorry for botherin’ ya.” 

He steps back and leaves the bookshop without another word. She doesn’t move for a moment, frowning and still staring at the shop’s door. She has dealt with a thousand customers in five years of working here, sometimes extremely weird, even more than this one, however it’s him who remains stuck in her head even a few days after his visit. 

But the culmination of this month filled by weird events happens a week after the man came to the bookshop. It’s a friday, and as usual, Vicky has her free afternoon and spends it at her flat, watching the last episode of Game of Thrones while drawing. But she’s interrupted by a knock on her door. She frowns, pretty sure she expected no one to come today. The person knocks again and she gets up from her desk chair. She unlocks the door, opens it, and before she can even say “hello”, she gasps in surprise at the sight of the man standing in front of her. 

Victoria has no doubts. It’s the man from her dreams or the one theorists call the “time traveler”, standing in the corridor of her floor with a tight, uncomfortable.

A/N : A first chapter full of misteries ahah ! Don’t hesitate to comment, express your ideas regarding what could happen or whatever could happen, I’m really curious to know ahah! See you next week for some answers ;)

Tags : @maggiescarborough​ @geekandbooknerd​ @obipoelover​ @finansarms​ ; Don’t hesitate to tell me if you want to be add to the tag list of the fic!

[daisylincs]

Today is, officially, the last day of 2020 - so it's literally just in time that I'm getting to @aosrecweek's amazing challenge. But that does go to show the nature of this crazy year a little bit, right? Time has just been INSANE, and I honestly cannot believe it's so close to over.

That said, I want to put it out there that everyone - absolutely everyone - who created something in this mad year, is a SUPERHERO. Like. We could have hidden away in dark corners, curled into little balls, and lost touch with our creativity entirely - but instead, we made some of the most fantastic content I have ever seen. And, excuse the language, but that is fucking amazing, of each and every single one of us. We're bloody INCREDIBLE, you guys. We really are.

Now, the rules of this challenge dictate that I've got to start with some of my own things, then repeat with the same number of creations by other people. So I'm going to do that, and I apologise for the sheer length (and self-plug-iness) of what is about to follow - but, bloody incredible, remember? I really mean that. 💜💜💜

My Own:

you could call me babe for the weekend - 19k of Spideychelle being oblivious, mutually pining IDIOTS while being snowed in. And, you know, fake dating. (This thing was SO MUCH FUN to write and though, yeah, it got completely out of control, as evidenced by the 19k, I still really love it.)

'tis the damn season - my first attempt at writing a multi-chap, and, yeah, it only has one chapter as of now, but I really love said chapter. Basically, it's Daisy and Mackelena being friends, and honestly just the BEST friends - I adore the style I managed to achieve in this thing. Plus, the Skimmons I have planned up next is going to be da bomb.

the closest thing - Philindaisy plus fake family. Also; amusement parks. And for a fangirl like me - well, it was pretty much a dream come true to write!

oh valley of plenty - in this fic, I basically told myself, so AoS won't give us Huntingbird in the finale? Fine. I'll just do it myself then - in the fluffiest way possible. And that's exactly what I did - making them, and their kids, be best friends in Perthshire.

maybe life should be about more - a very angsty Skimmons and Daisy-centric AU, focusing on the internalised homophobia Daisy has experienced through her life, and shaking it off (and eventually, y'know, getting together with Jemma.)

and it's dark in a cold december (but i've got you to keep me warm) - Fitzsimmons just make such a supreme pairing for hurt/comfort, what with how insanely well they understand each other and care about each other, so I'm really glad for the Fitzsimmons Secret Santa giving me the chance to write this! Basically, this follows our science duo through a stressful mission on Christmas Eve (so yes, it's a mission fic!!) and realising that the two of them can do anything together.

july second - ahhh, one of my personal favourites to write! Daisy birthday surprise fluff will always be top-notch for me, especially for all the team-as-family fluff you can add in, especially especially that this is set in Staticquake times! Also, it's from Hunter's point of view, which will forever be the most insanely fun thing to write, I do think.

i just wanna be with you - man, I'm such a big royal fan, so getting the chance to write a modern royalty AU for my OTP was nothing short of amazing!! This is Princess Daisy and her fiancée Lincoln Campbell at their official engagement interview

see the line where the skye meets the sea - shameless season 1 bby Bus Kids fluff, featuring movie nights, singalongs and... so much fluff your teeth will rot. Also I'm really freaking proud of the pun in the title okay

'cause all that you are is all that i'll ever need - Huntingbird waking up together fluff (because, fight me, Huntingbird in their sweet moments is one of the sweetest things you will ever get to read or write.) This is also my, fluffy, take on the origin of the Franny's Saloon keychain.

we love you, we love you (and we hope you love we too) - aha, my first polyship fic! Also my first try at some actually fancy HTML formatting (forever thanks to Kat for explaining.) Both of these things combined to form a fic that even I think is ridiculously fluffy and funny, and kinda amazing, at that.

and man I don't know where the time goes (but it sure goes fast like that) - Another Bus Kids movie night fic, but this one set post-season 7, and reflecting on how far they've come. A little bit more hurt/comfort-y than it's pure fluff prequel, but still super fluffy and soft. And, of course, with a happy ending.

she shares my dreams, i hope that someday, i'll share her home - snowy Fitzsimmons fluff, complete with them falling in love at the Winter Olympics, as you do.

then you walked in and my heart went boom - 16k of Dekesy for the wife, and remarkable for that, because literally a month ago from this, I hated Dekesy with my entire soul. Then I started reading Kat's fics, and, well, fell in love with them... so much so that I wrote sixteen thousand words of enemies-to-friends-to-lovers, bed sharing holiday fluff for them.

a love like that - a Fitzsimmons Cinderella AU, featuring my two favourite science babies, in true science bby style, falling in love over science and how stupid the whole courting thing is. Also, Daisy makes a brief appearance, and she's the freaking best.

ever after - ah, probably the one single fic I'm proudest of. A post-season 7 Daisy character study focusing on her emotional rollercoaster re: losing her family/things never being the same again, which just achieves... an emotional level that I have never managed to replicate again. I was full-on sobbing while writing it, and, guys, it also part-holds the Closest To Making Kat Cry prize.

blue - Daisy character study spanning snapshots of seven seasons, and before - but tied together by something blue in every moment. Researching for this, and finding all the blue moments, was very interesting, and immensely satisfying, especially since all the moments where a little bit of blue was present actually combine to chronicle Daisy's journey on the show remarkably well.

who is that girl I see - the one time I decided to write straight angst, and straight angst with no happy ending. Melinda May post-Bahrain, folks.

take my hand, take my whole life too - aww, the first thing I wrote that I really and truly loved. A Staticquake and Fitzsimmons Actors AU, featuring a proposal on set and INCREDIBLE amounts of fluff and softness.

hold out your hand, 'cause friends will be friends - the wife's favourite, and, as second fics go, pretty damn good, if I do say so myself. It's a Soulmates AU for Staticquake and Mackelena, with the focus being on DaisyMack friendship, and lots of denial, angst, and guilt about finding their soulmates. (They figure it out eventually, don't worry - it's me, of course I made them happy.)

Fitzsimmons + Fake Dating moodboard - Fake dating will always be FAB, and picturing it out in a moodboard - especially for my clueless bby best friends in love - was the best, and super satisfying.

Staticquake + Orange moodboard - One of the cooler ideas I had for Trick or Treat (which I still have not finished, heaven help me) was to make a series of moodboards for my OTP plus different colours. This orange one is just so light, and cheerful, and happy, and honestly I kinda adore it.

This Philindaisy + Family Moodboard - making moodboards can be insanely frustrating when you just can't find the photo that fits exactly right. With this one, however, I found all the pics I needed pretty insanely fast, and, better, the whole thing just worked, and really nicely so, too.

This Bus Kids + Baking Cookies moodboard - there's absolutely NO faults to be found with tiny, adorable Skye, Fitz and Jemma concocting choc chip cookies - but I'm actually doing a tiny cheat here, because, cute as my moodboard here is, the accompanying fic by my love @eowima is the SWEETEST and best thing you could ever wish for!!!

This Daisy Johnson Appreciation Week Photoset - Day 3 of Daisy Johnson Appreciation Week focused on an emotion, and I picked confidence and power, because honestly, it's nothing short of amazing how confident and powerful our gorgeous girl has become.

This Daisy Johnson Appreciation Week Photoset - One of the times I wish I could gif, because this quote about struggling though never giving up just suits Daisy perfectly. The photos I found are cool, though, and I mean, it's Daisy, so that's already absolutely fabulous.

Other People's:

I managed to find twenty-six of my own things that I liked enough to put up there (because, yes, I'm that big a dork, 26 things for me being 26 is the way to go :D) Anyway, now that gives me the amazing chance to spotlight twenty-six of my favourite creations by my FANTASTIC mutuals! 😍

To start, my wife - Kat said I couldn't put everything she's ever written on here, so, ugh, I guess I'll just do my top five then. *grumbling* Everything by Kat is on here in spirit, though!!

Chasing Cars (even after the story ends) by @aleksandrachaev - the epic Dekesy roadtrip AU and incredible Daisy character study itself, which, I do believe, finishes today!! Words aren't enough to describe how freaking AMAZING this thing is, or how spectacularly well characterised. Just: if you haven't read this yet, you are missing out. You will laugh, you will groan, you will want to wrap Daisy in a very tight hug, and you will probably cry, too. This fic just has it all, really!

there goes the maddest man this town has ever seen by @aleksandrachaev - the post-season 7 Deke-crashes-the-Framework-Zoom-call fic I didn't know I needed (but spent the next two weeks rereading every single night.) It is absolutely INCREDIBLE, with all the Deke & Team feels we missed in the final outro scene, and honestly just the most fantastic writing. I cannot recommend it enough!

To Box It Up And Start Again (everything must go) by @aleksandrachaev - bloody hell, this BROKE me. Deke never really got to say goodbye in canon, but Kat gave him the chance to do it here. And, my freaking GOODNESS, she made it so incredibly bittersweet and heart-shattering. 10/10

i am a leaf on the wind by @aleksandrachaev - a little bit of a stretched-out, reflective moment in the season 7 finale. As Daisy lingers on the edge of death, she reflects on all the lives she could have had - and, man, what a study in bittersweetness!! This entire fic is utterly incredible, and something I think all Daisy fans should read.

Falling Into Place by @aleksandrachaev - here's a tiny cheat from me (sorry, babes, lmao) because technically this isn't one fic, but a series of three. Way too amazing to miss out on, though!! Set mid-season 7, this has the Chronicoms go after a young Mary Sue Poots to kill Quake before she can become a problem for them. They stop the Chronicoms, yes, but not without a TREMENDOUS dose of feels and hurt/comfort. There's also a wonderful little dose of Dekesy friendship, and then an adult adoption (!!) that honestly made my entire day to read. Actually, that's true for the entire series - I really canNOT yell about it enough!!

destroyer of worlds by @bobbimorseisbisexual - a study in incredible parallels between Jiaying's daughters. Utterly breathtakingly done, this will give you ALL the feels for this small and complex Inhuman family.

Muscle Memory by @robotgort and @bobbimorseisbisexual - a Huntingbird!! Bones!! AU!! And also a collaboration between two of the most fabulous Huntingbird authors in the fandom - honestly, what more can you ask for?! This will make you laugh, and gasp, and wince, and keep you guessing at each new plot twist (and also screaming at your screen for Hunter and Bobbi to get their acts together and TALK ABOUT IT.) In short: it's completely and utterly amazing, and I cannot, cannot recommend it enough!!

You Belong Among the Wildflowers by @libbyweasley - a freaking incredible Scis & Spies Regency AU! I only just started reading, but I was hooked all the way through, especially on the way Libby writes all four characters' complex relationships (and their attraction, and their history!) Everything about it is just completely stunning, and I for one cannot WAIT for these beautiful idiots to figure out they all belong together.

Family Snapshot by @tomatobookworm - if it's family fluff you're after, especially Staticquake family fluff, look no further! This tremendously soft and utterly amazing fic follows a day in the lives of a pregnant Daisy and her husband Lincoln, and their not-so-little family of Inhumans, both adopted and biological. There's also shopping with Grandma May, lots of feels, lots of shippiness, and just AMAZINGNESS all the way through!!

Best Day Ever by @loved-the-stars-too-fondly - Jemma and Daisy want to adopt a pet, and make a very special trip to Wisconsin to do it. Also, whether he knows who he is or not, Jemma has an important question to ask Cal - and just, AHHHH, everything about this is utterly stunning! For starters, Aubrey's writing is FANTASTIC, and the scene she sets is absolutely beautiful, and so very bittersweet. I was actually misting up a little with happy tears towards the end of this - really, I cannot recommend this enough, to any Skimmons fan.

so why don't we go somewhere only we know by @loved-the-stars-too-fondly - more Skimmons (platonic this time, though), more hurt/comfort, and, yes, again, more absolutely INCREDIBLE writing. This one is canon compliant, following a shaken Jemma struggling to sleep after Maveth, and how Daisy finds a way to help her out. Incredibly sweet, tender and BEAUTIFULLY written, this one was an instant favourite the moment I read it!

Unspoken by @anxiouslynumbme - a birthday fic for yours truly, and, honestly, one of the most STUNNING Staticquake introspectives I've read. It follows Daisy and Lincoln in a beautifully tender missing moment in season 3, with them both realising their feelings, and just... AHHHHHHHH, everything about it is utterly incredible!! I cannot, cannot recommend this gem of a fic enough

the thing about water droplets and ruffled hair by @que-mint-tea - here's another fic that proves, once and for all, how good Kat's Dekesy is, because it managed to convert T to write some Dekesy smut. And, oh my GOSH, what Dekesy smut - so goshdarn angsty, but so FANTASTICALLY characterised and written that it leaves you more than a little breathless, and gaping at your screen. The first chapter initially left us on the most HORRIFIC cliffhanger, but then T fixed it, and it's just... this thing is really a whole new level of emotional writing, raw and gripping and intensely perfect for both of these characters. My haw still drops whenever I think of this thing, and how utterly AMAZING it was, so yeah. Fic rec!!!

beautiful stranger, there you are by @justanalto - I do believe I still owe Serena a long and very gushy comment on this thing, because, MAN, does it ever deserve that!! Pipsy and fake dating, with the most HILARIOUSLY incredible writing, plot and characterisation, and honestly just a giddy "askhdfkhsfh" whenever I think back to how much I enjoyed it. Yup, it was that good.

Jumping to conclusions by @eowima - a very special one, because it marks my love Océane's first venture into writing AoS fic! It's an AU of 1x06 (the Fitzsimmons episode of s1) where Fitz does actually jump out of the plane to save Jemma. Realisations of feelings, and some of the most genuinely FANTASTIC Fitz characterisation I've read in a while, follow - and, yup, I was shouting at my screen for them just to get together already. Amazing stuff, really!!

Look into your eyes and the sky's the limit by @eowima - okay, this. This. Another gift for me, and one that I will probably treasure forEVER, because it is just?? so?? utterly?? perfect?? Just for starters, the title is a Hamilton reference - and then the theme of Hamilton references continues into the fic itself, I'm delighted to say. There's also the most BEAUTIFUL, playful Skimmons friendship, and teasing, and then of course the bet about who can make out with their crush first... Staticquake & Fitzsimmons perfection. And all rendered in Océane's delightful, best-thing-ever-to-read writing!! I'm going into a giddy keyboard smash just THINKING about this, so yeah, cannot recommend it enough.

lullabies and clear blue skies by @springmagpies and @bobbimorseisbisexual - okay, I never thought I'd catch myself shipping FitzBobbi, let alone shipping it this hard, but... wow. Maggie and Al teamed up to completely blow me away, and MELT MY WHOLE ENTIRE HEART with the sheer cuteness of this!! It features Fitz, Bobbi and adopting two daughters, and it's just the most tender, beautiful development through that little family - I love it so, so much.

We made all the wrong choices by @browneyedgenius - the winner of the AoS Angst War 2020, how could I not include this one? It is such a well-deserved win, though, whoa - I was sobbing, full-on sobbing, at least twice while reading. It follows the season 5 team through the events of the time-loop, after they failed to save the world - and, oh my gosh, it ripped my heart right out of my chest, but beautifully so. Everything about this fic just hits so hard, and it's written so well - yeah, really a most AMAZINGLY deserved win, for an utterly SHATTERINGLY incredible fic.

I threw stones at the stars (but the whole sky fell) by @nazezdha321 - this is Z showing us all how to write a backstory for a minor character, and write it so well that everyone's hearts break all over again when she dies. This one is about Victoria Hand, and it builds a stirring and profound childhood for her, also making her rise through the ranks of SHIELD and just her entire character mean so much more. Really, fic-wise, this is goals, and I take my hat off to you, Z, 1000%, for writing it.

in which the universe is put together by @besidemethewholedamntime - Rebecca's emotional writing, particularly Fitzsimmons' emotions, is incomparable, and she proves it all over again in this fic. If follows Fitz and Jemma before, after and during the bloodwork, and I just... wow, honestly. The emotion!! And the characterisation!! Absolutely stunning, and honestly all I could wish for in a we-had-time fic.

Agents of SHIELD Season 8 by @egumal - THIS. This, this, this, oh my gosh - as fix-it fics go, this has to be the most spectacular one I have ever read. What it does is find a way - a potentially canon compliant way, too - to bring back Lincoln Campbell, and reunite Staticquake. Basically: just about as season 7 finishes, the Astro Ambassadors get an unexpected visitor from another timeline, who asks them to come help out against Hive. Case in point, Daisy meets her lost love again (... but he has no idea who she is) and also has to relive the Fallen Agent drama. It all gets even more complicated when Kora restores Lincoln's memories, and Daisy meets the full team Deke has assembled around him in the 33 years (for him) that they've been apart... in short, this is one of the most thorough, well-written and downright SHOCKING plot-twist-wise fics that you will ever read, and honestly, saying "I can't recommend it enough" is an understatement. This thing is thd BEST, plain and simple!

Black Roses aren't real (but you and I are) by @ohwriteiforgot - ahhhh, a fic that will always have an incredibly special place in my heart, because it introduced me to one of my best fandom friends. The main focus is on Clintasha, it's true, but it's also a crossover with AoS in the sense that Clint was adopted by Coulson and May. Also, Daisy is his little sister, and their bond is gold. Also - there's Staticquake!! And flower shops!! And rivals to friends to lovers!! All I'm going to say is, what more can you ask for?!

A book to shield my story by @maybebrilliant - Staticquake High School AU, ahhhhhhhh!! There are only two chapters out so far, but the way this is shaping up is making my DAY - with Daisy as the new girl who meets Lincoln and his group of friends, and, though her foster parents are absolutely shit, starts to find actual happiness in a school for the first time in her life. Also - THE REFERENCES. Guys. I'm crazy for those, and in this book, so are my favourite dorks, Daisy and Lincoln - and let me tell you, it's nothing short of the best thing ever.

This AoS Finale Gif Edit by @heysteverogers - AoS really has been the most INCREDIBLE journey through the years, but what's really made it special is the company - and that's summed up perfectly in this gorgeous gifset. Also, the graphics on this are just, ahhhh, stunning - I'm in awe, and I've spent very long periods of time just looking at this thing in a state of heart-eyes.

This AoS Finale Gif Edit by @jemannesimms - combining Auld Lang Syne and the final scenes of my favourite show was a raw emotional - but utterly brilliant experience - for me. It's just so absolutely beautiful, and perfectly suited to the team, and their goodbyes!! Breathtaking editing work here, too.

This Daisy as Peter Parker and May as Tony Stark moodboard by @agentsofcomedyandchaos - ahhhh, a crossover of two of my favourite fandoms!! And what a lovely one, too - the colour scheme, quotes, and just the whole FEEL of this is absolutely genius, and I am guilty of being inspired by way too many fic ideas by it. Stunning stuff!!

And... whoa, that was long, but I really do feel that we deserve a bit of a proper pat on the back after creating such magical content in such a messed up year. So that's the note I'm going to leave you with for 2020, my friends: hell-year or no, look at the absolute beauty we were still able to create!! We really are freaking amazing, guys.

[pixie88]

Delilah

Chapter 1 - Alone - Third A&E Series.

A/N: I originally posted this on a side blog but I was having trouble switching between the two and I also didn’t want to start again. As I said there this A&E series is a lot more darker, hitting RL subjects I have been through myself please don’t judge me as you can’t make me feel an worse than I have made myself in the past. The stigma around these subjects are real and so many people don’t speak out about them. Friends and family don’t even know the secrets I will reveal in these chapters as I am ashamed and worry about what they will think. I hope this helps even just one person realise they aren’t alone. I hope you like it 😘

I’m not going to annoy people with re-tags, so I’m not tagging in these first two chapters as most my usual tags have read it.

Find previous chapters HERE under Together - Adam & Ellie.

Word count: 1905

WARNINGS: ⚠️ Angst & adult language.

Pairings: Adam x Ellie.

Enjoy!

A Year and a half after the last chapter of A&E Together.

"She's beautiful, Ellie! A girl! We have a little girl," she looks over to him feeding their daughter. All the panic and worry was worth it! She thought to herself as she's getting stitched up.

16 week's earlier.

This pregnancy had been harder on her than Charlie's, her morning sickness had carried on until 24 weeks, she was in pain with her hips and back. Adam made her give up work at 32 weeks. She was reluctant, but knew he was right, plus at home, she could do more research on shops for sale in London.

By the time she had hit 36 weeks she had found the perfect shop, they had a cheeky weekend away in London to view the property while Ellie's mum had Charlie for them. Being heavily pregnant they didn't do much sight seeing, but they did spent a lot of time tangled beneath the sheets in the hotel room. This would probably be the last time in a long time they would have time alone, so they wanted to make the most of it. 

When they arrived back home Ellie had to sort out the internal and external work. She had put in an offer and was in the proceeds of owning the new shop being, so close to the end of her pregnancy Adam took over all the dealings of the new shop not wanting his wife stressed. 40 weeks Ellie woke on her due date irritated and fed up with being pregnant their little lady showed no signs of wanting to come out.

That afternoon Ellie was in the bathroom when she thought her water had broken, looking down at the floor, she was expecting to see clear waters but instead she saw crimson red puddles of blood. She calls out to Adam who was downstairs soon rushed up to his panicked wife. Shock grew on his face as he saw what had her so panicky. He quickly regained his composure, trying not to worry his heavily pregnant wife.

Adam quickly called her midwife who told them to head to the hospital after dropping Charlie at Elaine's door. He helped an hysterical Ellie into the car. On the way her contractions started they were very close together so when they arrived, he practically had to bridal carry her out to the car with her bag to the labour ward where they handed him a wheel chair. Once in the delivery suite and after a few puffs of gas and air Ellie start to calm down she was so mellow that she wasn't even bothered when the doctor took a sample of her blood, she usually hated blood tests but the gas and air had worked its magic.

When the doctor came in Ellie was completely out of it. Between contractions, she was drifting, those few seconds between each one felt like heaven "Sorry, did you say your name is Doctor Curry? I bet you had the korma taken out of you at school!" she laughs at her own joke, then apologizes when she realised what she had said "Don't worry, I know it's the gas and air talking believe me, I've had worse. We are just going to listen to baby and see how they are! OK?" She nods.

After 10 minutes whooshing the doctor and midwife didn't look very happy with the result "What's wrong?" She asked him. He had that look all doctor have when they're about to tell you bad news "You baby's heart beat keeps dipping" tears started forming in her eyes "Dipping? What do you mean?" He hands her a tissue "Mrs Barlow, we want to deliver your baby as safely as possible and with the fluctuations of their heart beat you have an hour to deliver this baby, or we will have to take you down to theatre for an emergency c-section" her heart sank "But how am I going to have a baby in less than an hour? She just said I'm only 3 centimetres" She looks up at Adam, he's calm which soothe her.

"Well, we need to first break your waters, hopefully that should speed things along a bit. So, I'm going to leave Charlotte here to do that and I will be back in half an hour to see how you are doing" DR. Curry makes his way for the door. "Ellie, after your next contraction I'm going try and break your waters. So, I need you to tell me when it's over, OK?" Ellie nods the next contraction comes and goes. Charlotte successful breaks her waters "That feels so warm!" Ellie laughs just as the next contraction starts to build.

"Oh my god! I feel like I need to push!" She screams as the contraction takes hold. "Ellie if you need to push, then push, but little pushes!" Scared her body is tricking her, she refuses "I can't! You said I was only 3 centimetres. I'm not ready!" She hisses at Charlotte "Hey Ellie, listen to me if that's what your body wants to do then do it. I will keep an eye if nothing happens we will stop! OK? You need to trust what your body is telling you to do!"

The next contraction build she begins to push... crashing Adam's hand in the process until it fades again "You're doing brilliant, beautiful" Adam kisses her forehead "Anything?" She asks her midwife "Well, I can see the top of baby's head..." She's cut off by the next contractions "There's the head" Charlotte tells her "With the next contraction she'll be here" another starts and Ellie pushes again "And here she is 7:43PM welcome to the world little one!" Charlotte says as she cleans her up.

"Ellie, you did it again! She's here!" Adam cups her face and kisses her lips "Skin to skin?" Charlotte asks, Ellie nods "I'll just get Daddy to cut the cord" she looks over to Adam and hands him the scissors. He proudly cuts through the cord before Charlotte moves her to Ellie's chest "Does she have a name?" Charlotte looks at both of them "We're still haven't decid..." she cuts Adam off "Delilah!" Ellie looks up at Adam as the brightest smile appears on his face "Aww that's lovely! Where did you get that from?" She asks the pair.

"It was my Nan's name" Adam says not quite believing she finally had a name and a name that means something to him. "That's sweet! Ellie do you want to give Delilah to Daddy while we get this afterbirth delivered?" Charlotte places Delilah in a towel passes her to Adam as DR. Curry walks in "How are we do...oh baby is here! Wow how long did that take?" He looks over to Charlotte "15 minutes after I broke her water. She had the urge to push right away!" He looks at her stunned "Whoa! That's amazing have you requested her IV drip yet?"

Ellie looks confused "IV drip?" He looks over to her "We estimated you probably lost just over a pint of blood. This will just stop anymore bleeding" Charlotte smiles at a worried Ellie "Nothing to worry about its just because you've lost more than usually. It's routine"

"I'll go and get what we need. While you finish up in here" DR. Curry says as he leave the room.

Later, Charlotte has shift had ended and a new midwife had taken over "When can I go for a shower?" Ellie asks her new midwife Demi she wanders over checks the IV drip monitor "You have another 45 minutes on this then you should be OK" another midwife walks in and calls Demi out of the room a few minutes later she comes back in "We are going to have to move you up to postnatal ward now" Ellie looked shocked with Charlie's Labour she was allowed to have a shower before heading up.

Her legs were still covered in blood as well as her hospital gown. She got off the bed with her IV drip and into a wheelchair, Adam close behind with Delilah. She gets into her cubicle and take a seat in the chair after the midwife leave, she bursts into tears Adam puts Delilah down in her cot and rushes over to his wife "Hey, what's up beautiful?"

She looks up at him "Everything I'm covered in blood, I'm still in this awful thing. I want get into bed, but I can't sit on there like this! I want to cuddle my baby, but my arms are cover in blood. I feel dirty like I'm a cast member of the walking dead! And from what it sounds like we have a snorer the other side of this stupid curtain" He lifts up his wife's chin "Watch Delilah I'll be back in a minute" he gets up and leaves the cubicle through the curtain.

10 minutes later he comes back with a wheel chair and a midwife "You help her into the chair and grab her bag I'll grab baby" the midwife tells Adam. Wiping her tears she looks up at him "What's going on?" He smiles at her "You'll see now come on!" He lifts her out of her chair and into the wheel chair. They walk down the hall and through a door. Once inside she spots another bed and a bathroom "Adam?"

She looks up at him "This was the last one they had!" She looks at him still confused, he laughs, "£90 a night for a private room with a bath in the bathroom and this lovely lady has said if you've had over 80 percent of that drip she'll take it off you, so you can go for a soak" her eyes well up and she starts to cry again.

"It suppose to make you happy not sad!" He laughs, "Happy tears!" The midwife smiles at them both as she catches sight of Ellie, she shook her head "Oh dear, look at the state of you! They let you come up here like that! You poor thing, let me put her next to the bed and get you off this. Even if I have to put you back on after you can't sit like that!" She puts Delilah next the bed and takes Ellie off the drip before helping her to the bathroom.

20 minutes later all fresh from her shower, she emerges from the bathroom in her own comfortable clothes. Adam is changing Delilahs nappy. He looks up "Feeling better?" She smiles as she nods at him before she gets onto the bed next him. She places a kiss on his cheek, "Thank you!" He looks over to her "Why are you thanking me? You did all the hard work!" He places Delilah back in her cot "You were calm while I was losing it! I crashed your hand and you spent money on a hospital room just to make me happy!"

He laughs, "I did have my own motives! No one, not even me was going to sleep with a motorbike snoring next door!" he pulls her to his chest and pulls over the blanket over the both of them "We better sleep while she does. So, night beautiful!" She kisses his cheek "Night! I love you!" She feels him chuckle "I love you more"

Continue reading this story here - Chapter 2.

[colour-outside-the-liness]

Omg C! The MoU update ah my heart! Are you trying to kill me with all that fluff?! Hahaha. And then two great smut scenes? I'm- I need some time to recover from this hahaha. I know people usually need time to recover from angst but I'm currently a puddle on my bed and I don't know what to do with myself. 😂

Also, where can one get a Jamie? I need to know for a friend 👀 haha and Dani is just so baby omg I love them so much I cry! 💘

I'm gonna say something but I'm not hating yeah... I'm just surprised that Jamie would instruct Dani to put sugar before water... I'm just... listen it's just I wouldn't do that ever especially bc Dani likes things to taste like pure sugar but yeah. I'm sorry I'm being picky, I'm sure a lot of people make their tea that way. Just asked my friend if she puts sugar before or after water in her tea and she was like "it doesn't matter, and don't try to be pretentious about this" 🙄 The friends I have honestly...

Now I'm curious to know what you picked up on your grocery shopping that made your mother judge you so much haha.

And you little heartbreaker! This is the second time I see people fawnig over you on your asks haha sorry for being a little shit and teasing you about it but I mean, you go girl! Hope I can be as brave as your anons one day 💪✨

Awwh thank you so much I'm so glad you liked the new update!! Yeah this one was very fluffy and very smutty and is probably one of my favourite chapters out of the whole fic- the next one is pretty good too so or I think so hope you like that one when it's posted. I know I want a Jamie too!! Haha and yes Dani is definitely very baby in this fic- but there are gonna be some flash backs where Jamie is baby too and Dani looks after her. it's a very equal relationship. I don't think it matters but then again I suck at making tea haha 😂 all I know is some people I know put the sugar in before the water and other people put it in right at the end (I have my tea with two sugars) and honestly it tastes the same to me either way I can never tell when someone has put the sugar in before water or right at the end of the process. And I think Dani probably used to like really sugary tea until Jamie made her one and then I think she realised just how sweet her tea had always been and then I think she probably started to prefer it the way Jamie makes it haha... but you're totally fine in pointing this out about putting the sugar in before / after the water I didn't get anything apart from the cook book and some stuff to make healthier meals with... my mum hurt her back on Saturday and has now needed help with some things so I've been helping her because I'm an A+ daughter. But she just judged me for everything I said. She asked me how my new job was going and I told her, she told me I'm working too hard and doing too much. Told her I was going out on my works Holiday / Christmas party- which is just us all going to a place that's doing an 80s night and having a 4 course meal with entertainment provided she asked why I'd wanna go on an 80s night. I told her I'd also been invited out for Mad Friday which is basically just a night out for Christmas and is the last Friday before Christmas and all the people I work with are going out, I've been invited and when I said I was going she judged me and said "No you don't want to go." I was like, "No, I do want to, that's why I said I'd go." And she tried talking me out of it and judged me for sticking to my guns. When I told her I was wanting to lose a tiny little bit of weight and that's why I bought healthier foods and bought a cook book full of healthier recipes she told me "No you don't want to lose weight" and judged me again for making that life decision. Basically it was just two hours of me not being able to do anything right. I didn't even do anything haha 😂 And I'm not a heart breaker at all trust me. I really can't believe people have fawned over me... like I'm really very shocked by the whole thing but I appreciate it... don't think I'm a heart breaker though... honestly that anon was so brave and I respect that so much... I WISH I could be as brave as them. ☺️💜