#i literally just stood in my brother’s room after she was done guilt tripping us and we just shared a look of solidarity

[hiswhiteknight]

Unbelievably Outlandish– Part 9

Summary:  Before starting down a new crossroads, the Reader goes onto an adventure of literary traveling. Suddenly tossed into an unbelievable story that has swept the world, The Outlander Series itself. How will a twenty first century woman survive?

Note: I own no characters, except reader, clearly this is based off the lovely book series Outlander by Diana Gabaldon and tv show. This follows more the tv show, but it’s far from accurate. I’m going to try to get better with using less proper English, but who knows maybe I’ll get into Scottish slang.

Pairing: Jamie Fraser x Female Reader

Words: 1900

 Warning: Angst, playfulness, cursing, slow start, obviously fighting and such

You heard Jamie’s word after he left, ‘You should go up and spend some time with the clan, it might be worth learning a bit more.’ He wasn’t wrong, though it was hard for you to admit it. You took a deep sigh, fixed your hair, and went back up the stairs. You found Mrs. Fitz, who passed you a drink. “Lovely you joined us again Y/N. Everything prepped for the hunt?”

 “Sure is, Mrs. Fitz, sure is, which means I can drink and be merry,” you watched as the line started to dwindle down as the men took their oaths to Colum. “Anything happen after the oath taking, like that musician, will he be playing today. Love that guy,” you smile down at her.

 She looked at you bemused and shook her head, “No, he won’t be playing this evening. There will be dancing later, I’m sure quite a few men would be interested in dancing with you.”

 You shook your head at her, “You are not a match maker Mrs. Fitz. I would not dare to go out on that floor. I would insult the good Mackenzie clan with my lack of grace.” A man tripped over his feet in front of you and stumbled on to find his friends.

“Grace is nothing you need to worry about here dear,” she grinned at you. “Not too difficult to figure out, I’ll have Laoghaire show you later,” she tapped you. Laoghaire stood next to her, giving you a strange look, you were sure you didn’t warrant. Suddenly the room grew quiet and you looked up towards the entrance of the hall. Jamie was weaving through the crowd slowly. He had changed and making his way towards the oath taking line. And every eye was on him, except when you turned to observe everyone’s reaction Murtagh was looking at you. You gripped Mrs. Fitz’s arm and pushed towards Murtagh, there was no way you were taking credit for this.

 When you made yourself up to him, he was towards the back of the room with his hand gripping the top of his sword, “Why do I have a feeling this involves you?”

 “I didn’t do it,” you whispered harshly to him, sounding like a child defending their lack of innocence. He tipped his head over not believing you for a second, “I didn’t do it on purpose, and he told me he could get back just fine.”

 “You don’t understand what you just did to him. You signed his death sentence,” he pulled you back further. Murtagh caught you up in the severity of Jamie’s predicament. With every word, you grew more worrisome and filled with guilt. The thought of not having Jamie to rely on as a friend tousled around in your head. You tried to find a way to free Jamie from this situation and the only thought you could manage was start a fire or faint and you didn’t believe either of those situations would help him out of this.

 It was Jamie’s turn next and you didn’t acknowledge that you started to hold your breath. Suddenly without reason or thought, you grabbed Murtagh’s forearm. And without much thought, Jamie diplomatically got himself out of the situation looking like a leader. You cursed under your breath, before dusting off the front of your dress, “And you were worried Murtagh. See Jamie came out looking like a,” you paused not being able to come up with a metaphor that would make sense in the 18th century, “I don’t know. He is just fine. Now you can’t be mad at me.”

 Murtagh rolled his eyes as Jamie walked up to him, “Couldn’t stay away from trouble, aye?”

 Jamie looked towards you, his face grew a knowing smile I didn’t quite understand, “Sometimes trouble finds me than I’m like a moth to flame. Y/N, I see you decided to join the gathering again.”

 “You made it sound so exciting and here you were not wrong. Though it doesn’t bode well that you got caught. And now Murtagh here is blaming me for your lack of discretion,” you use your thumb to point back at Murtagh, “And I was starting to win him over.”

 Scratching the back of his neck, leaning in to whisper, “Not everyone can be sneaky as you and not get caught.”

 “Tis right there sir,” you shoot back at him.

 Hearing a big sigh come from his partner in crime, Murtagh gave Jamie an eye roll and pulled him out of the hall, “You’ve had enough of trouble this evening, let’s go.”

 “Enjoy your evening, Y/N.”

 You shook your head, biting back a snarky comment. You could throttle the man for making everything seem so suave and charming. As Jamie and Murtagh rounded the hall entrance, the phrase you repeated to yourself, ‘your charm doesn’t work on me Jamie.’ It was slowly hitting you that, that mantra might not be as strong as you needed it to be. You looked around, feeling someone starring at you and caught eye contact with Laoghaire. And suddenly she was storming out of your eyesight. The dancing had started and you watched the mesmerizing dance of the culture. Everyone’s laughter put you at ease for a moment. Then suddenly, you were in your head missing your home and brother. You weren’t meant to be here, everything you are is fake or reserved. You couldn’t live like this and the bought of hopelessness took over your soul. In this moment, something inside you became a little toxic.

  The next morning, you were up early for the hunt. The way the night ended with the uneasiness sat on your chests as you dressed for the day. This wasn’t your place, this wasn’t your job, and it started to bother you how different the times are. You would never be respected as a woman, an unmarried woman. You tossed your hair in two French braids, per usual fashion when having a busy day. You dropped your hair piece under the bed and you ducked down to grab it to suddenly find a strange bundle. You finished with your hair and brought the bundle down to the kitchen.

 You grabbed some bread and sat the bundle on the table, “Dear what are you bringing that into this kitchen,” Mrs. Fitz yelled catching you off guard and causing you to stumble backwards.

 “I,” you paused to comprehend the situation, “I, I found it in my room, under my bed and I was going to ask it was some weird potpourri thing. What is it?”

 “It’s an ill-wish, a witch’s making,” she tossed it into the fire.

 “An ill-wish, what?”

 “Someone be wishing to bring you harm dear, what have you gotten into,” she put both her hands on your face, “Try staying out of trouble, someone has an eye to hurt you.”

 “I didn’t do anything, literally I have been making myself small at possible Mrs. Fitz,” your voice started to raise. You have done everything in your power to win people over, treat people with kindness, not start a stir when you found injustice to your gender and status. You didn’t believe in witchcraft, though it should cause you to question since you are living the 18th century, which is something you would never believe in.

 “All due respect, Mrs. Fitz, but someone is going to get their ass beat hard,” you shot catching everyone’s attention.

 “Lass, mind your tongue. That is not the language a lady speaks,” Mrs. Fitz tried to sooth you.

 You pull away from her, “No,” you start to gather your things feeling the heat of this betrayal crumble the wall you built around your true self to keep you protected from these people. Every comment, action, and lie you’ve told to keep yourself from being killed, shunned, raped, or imprisoned is bubbling out of your pours. You have reached you limit, “I am not a lady Mrs. Fitz. I do not belong here. I wear pants damn it, I swear, and I could probably kick the ass of half the men here,” you paused, “At the same time,” you paused again, “Maybe not, but I sure would die trying. I do not belong here. Look at how everyone looks at me, treats me, I’m the enemy because I’m different. I’m not part of the clans, I’m an imposter. And rather than whisper about their hatred, someone wants to cause me actual pain with this bullshit. Fuck that. I’m sorry Mrs. Fitz and pardon me, but fuck that.” Your packs were hanging from my shoulder, “Let this spread around the village, anyone that can guarantee me the name of the person who put this under my bed gets all the money I have earned over the time I’ve been here.”

 “Y/N,” Mrs. Fitz called after you. She clearly was not offended by your lewdness, but more she was concerned about what you were about to cause with your burst of feelings of revenge and anger.

 You stomped up to Angus, “Where the necklace man, I didn’t escape or leave, now give the piece back?”

 “Don’t speak to me like that lassie,” he started to feel around his body for the necklace you gave him the night before. With every pat, your already boiling anger grew. That was the only piece from your family you owned. “Might of lost-,” he started to say.

 With the beginning of his sentence, you went for your dagger lying on your waistband. Before you could pull it out, Rupert pushed your hand down holding the handle down, “Settle down Y/N, Angus gave me the necklace to watch over. He noted he would lose it.” He pushed the charm in your hand, “If that would have came out, Angus would have gutted you. Does the hunt have you on edge lass?”

 “Stupidity has me on edge Rupert and it’s not much of your business,” you stormed away to find your horse. Something had changed in you and you weren’t sure what to do about it.

 You struggled to get on your horse, when someone came up and offered you an extra push. Jamie stood in front of you and your horse, “Mrs. Fitz asked me to check on you. She shared you were upset and threatening people. I heard you tried to pull a knife on Angus, what has gotten into you woman.”

 This time you didn’t make eye contact with Jamie, “Mind your business Mister MacTavish. If I want to fight or punish someone for their actions against me, then I’ll see fit to do it. Now get out of my way, there is a boar to chase down and murdered.”

 Jamie didn’t move, keeping your horse in place, “You going to get yourself killed and as your friend, that does in fact concern me. You shouldn’t be going on the hunt like this.”

 You pushed forward with the horse causing Jamie to back up quickly, “I’ve seen Old Yeller, I get the dangers that come from a boar. Right now, you should be worried about the clansmen Mackenzie. Now if you’ll excuse me,” you started to move towards the field.

 You were fully aware he would not get the reference from the 21st century, but you did not care. The thought of taking the horse and charging out of the village to the stones drifted to your mind. But you still cared to get back to your brother at the moment and that meant you had to have a chance to survive, “Y/N,” Jamie yelled after you.

 “Leave me alone, Mister MacTavish, I have business to attend to,” you shouted back.

 Part 10

Taglist:  @doctorwhatwhenandwhere @damnedandbroken @blushingpogue @blancastans @slytherinambitious @kinky-asher @lovesanimals @bilesxbilinskixlahey

[susiequaz12]

Carrot Top 26- Self Betrayal

Here is part 26 of Andrew’s story, and Whumptober day 5. Carrot Boi’s masterlist is here, and his previous part is here. Prompt: Betrayal. This chapter is a bit long, it’s a little bit of a recap to all that happened, but still important to the story.

CW: bandages, unconscious whumpee, references to multiple past injuries, references to beatings, mentions of blood, possessive whumper, dehumanization.

- - -

Dr. Tusik and Justin had just finished bandaging up Andrew’s feet, when Ali and Mickie showed up into the room.

Mickie stood in the doorway, holding onto the door frame, while Ali cautiously approached the bed.

“How- how’s he doing?” She asked.

Tusik set down the roll of bandages in his hand.

“Better. Much better. We bandaged his back and his feet just fine and he’s getting an iv for some fluids right now.”

“He fell back sleep a few moments ago.” Justin added. “He’ll probably be fine, but he- he just seems so out of it-” There was a seeming hollowness to Justin’s face. A dissociation after seeing his injuries, or a mental block- to keep him from thinking about it all. He kept finding things to busy him as he spoke. Picking up a bandage and moving it around, putting random things away- “-It’s like he doesn’t know where he is, or what’s going on.”

“Justin is right.” Tusik nodded. “I’m afraid the bulk of his recovery is going to be mental. There’s only so many bandages and stitches we can use.”

Mickie stepped forward on shaky legs, her eyes not once moving off of her brother. 

“Actually- we, we had an idea about that. About how to help.”

“Go on.” Tusik stated. 

Mickie looked towards Ali as she began to explain.

“I’ve gone inside someone’s mind before. I can- sorta view their memories.” Justin came to stand near his girlfriend as she spoke, fiddling with her hands. “I don’t do it often because unless someone lets me, I have to force my way into their mind, and I- I don’t-” She breathed deeply. Justin reached down to squeeze her hand. “I don’t prefer to-But I could. With Andrew- for Andrew. I could go in his mind and be able to understand everything that happened.”

“Are you sure Vnuchka?” The Dr. set down the tool in his hand to face the girl. “You won’t overexert yourself? You’ve already done quite a bit of healing today.”

Ali returned the squeeze to Justin’s hand and nodded. 

“I- I can do it. I have to.”

Mickie nodded. “Think about it anyways- Howe was useless. He didn’t know what happened, he just patched Andrew up. If he- when he wakes up- like, fully wakes up- he’s probably not going to be the same immediately.” Mickie took a step closer to the bed and reached out her hand, but quickly pulled it back. “He might have- have triggers, or stuff that bothers him, that’ll send him back there you know? It’ll- it’ll be better if we can know what happened so that we can be careful and avoid hurting him even more.”

“You’re saying he- he might have, what? PTSD?” Justin asked.

“It’s a very real possibility, Justin.” Tusik stated. “It wouldn’t surprise me if he developed at least a bit of trauma from all that he’s been through.”

“It’ll be better for him in the long run if at least one of us knows what happened.” Ali stated. “I can do it- I’ve got the strength still.”

“Alright.” Tusik said. “Go ahead, dear.”

Ali glanced around. “I’ll need everyone to leave, please.” Reluctantly, and after some pestering, Mickie and Justin left the room. “Tusik? You too?”

The old doctor tried to protest but Ali gave him a stern look. She needed to be alone. He could leave his patient for a few moments.

“Thank you.”

“Careful vnuchka. I’ll be right outside.”

Ali nodded, and then sat on the edge of the bed. He looked so incredibly still. She glanced above his head to the wall where all his memories and keepsakes were kept. 

Posters from bands and musicals covered his walls, except for a section above the bed- that was plastered with millions of photos. Polaroids- paper cutouts, printed photos- the wall was covered with smiling faces of Ali, Justin, his mom- sisters, and everyone else he held dear. It was a menagerie of color and euphoria, plastered in a beautiful disarray. It was Andrew.

Ali took a closer look, and let her eyes linger on the memories. 

There was that photo he’d taken of her covered in popcorn during their first movie night. She had woken up with kernels still in her hair the next morning- they were in seventh grade. A couple pictures of him and his sisters lined the walls. One of them he had Mickie on his back, and was holding Erika in his arms. They were all smiling. 

And then there were those of all three of them. Him, Ali, and Justin. When Justin finally opened up to them and became more of a close friend during high school- That trip they took to the amusement park. Ali had a giant stuffed bear in her arms and a hat falling over her eyes, with a boy on either side of her, kissing her cheeks. The two of them had tried for hours competing to win her something from the carnival games. They finally decided to work together, and had stuffed themselves in a photo booth afterwards to document the event.

She wiped away a happy tear from the memory and pulled out her phone, a song coming to her mind.

It was one Andrew always sang. The notes resting easy in his voice, the melody fairly simple. He wasn’t an astounding singer, but he never sounded bad.

The first notes of the piano started echoing, the chords resonating around the room, and Ali breathed.

The moments when Ali had previously entered someone’s mind had been rare occasions. It had only been used in the past for interrogation, or during her training. Never for something this serious. 

The room was clear. The noise of the piano cutting through the eerie silence, and she wished that she had kept everyone else in the room- but she could focus better this way.

He was so still- lying there on top of his blankets. 

She tried not to look at him too much. She would be already seeing far more than she wanted to know.

She gently pulled herself up onto the bed next to him so they were laying side by side. Her mind instantly flashed to those nights in the summer in high school where they would lay like this and look at the stars. 

She reached over and gently grabbed his frail hand in hers. His fingers were limp and cold, but she held tight. She tilted her head to the side until it was brushing up against his, and closed her eyes, right as the singer began to echo the words to the song.

Here I am, Here I am. And the light, is dying.

Ali felt guilt.

She felt Andrew’s guilt. And he felt terrible. 

Ali would admit that he had said some hurtful things to her and Justin that night. But nothing felt worse than knowing they could’ve prevented what happened to him.

She could understand that he sincerely believed he had angered his friends, and that because of that, he deserved every single thing that happened to him.

That belief was prominent and clear throughout his whole captivity.

And then Ali felt dread. 

That sinking feeling in your gut as something terrible happens, as you get in trouble, or in a situation more terrible than you thought.

Ali felt that pit in her stomach as Andrew was grabbed out of the alleyway. As he was shoved down, restrained, knocked unconscious, and dragged to the man they all hated the most.

Where are you? Where are you? Will you answer me?

And then there was anger. 

As Andrew stood in front of that terrible man. 

Anger, as he was beaten with a rod, and humiliated. 

Ali watched, as Splice made him choose between his instruments of pain. She felt anger rise in herself as her friend was electrocuted. And then, as he was tied up and whipped. Even more, as Splice continued to utilize his library of torment, in just the first few hours of his arrival. 

She felt the pain in her shoulders and neck, as he was stretched, and tied down in a torturous position, and left there. 

She could feel in her chest as Andrew’s anger turned to confusion, which turned to fear, and then just the will to survive, and remember to breathe. But her anger remained.

That anger bubbled inside her like the blood that broke to the surface of his skin, bubbling, with every word that man spoke. Every touch, every glance, every weapon.

“I want to hear you beg.”

“You’re not that pathetic, are you?”

“You will listen, when I tell you to do something, understand?”

The anger grew inside of Ali as she felt, saw, and witnessed everything that happened to Andrew, but this was just the beginning.

All alone, in the quiet. And my ears, are thirsty.

For a brief spark, there was hope. 

She witnessed as Andrew met the young doctor, and felt just a little safer with him.

But then that hope was crushed. Again, and again.

Ali seemed like she was sitting in the room with Andrew, where he lie on the bed next to Howe. But she was floating, just observing everything, helpless, as she watched and witnessed. 

Splice approached Andrew where he lay, and she could feel the fear behind his eyes, but there was stubbornness etched onto his face.

She clenched her fists and bit into her cheeks as she tried to remain calm. She had to stay calm- or she would be forced out of Andrew’s mind. But it grew increasingly more difficult the more and more Splice taunted him. 

“I gave you a gift. You need to respond politely. Come on now, use your manners.”

Andrew was screaming.

“What do you say?”

There were tears down his face.

He submitted.

And Ali felt betrayal.

She felt Andrew’s betrayal as he had turned against himself, and his desire to stay strong. But he had betrayed the one thing he had told himself he wouldn’t do. He no longer felt strong.

For your voice- for your voice Can you answer me?

The next events Ali witnessed were crushing- literally.

Her fists shook as he remained defiant, refusing to break. As his head was slammed into the table, blood pouring down his face.

He was grabbed and dragged outside, tied down onto a table.

Her head reeled as she tried to maintain the connection- her anger was growing.

“I will make you apologize.”

“Screw you.”

Andrew couldn’t breathe. Ali could feel the panic rising in his chest as he tried to flow the air through his lungs. 

That panic lead to fear- which led to pain- which led to desperation.

And he betrayed himself once more.

If I try, maybe I can see your shadow In the sodium light that masquerades as moon If I try, I might take off like a sparrow And I'll travel along a guiding breeze

Three words echoed through his brain. It sounded like a megaphone, bouncing off of empty walls. The words reverberated through Ali’s mind. Each time they were repeated, she felt Andrew lose a little more of himself.

“I. Own. You.”

And the next words that repeated further solidified that in Andrew’s mind.

“Who do you belong to?”

“You.”

“What are you?”

“A tool. Used how you see fit.”

“Where, and when?”

“Here, and for forever.”

“And lastly, why?”

“Because I deserve it. Because I’m worthless.”

“That’s right. This is no longer your life- but mine.”

Very soon, very soon That's the sound of longing Are you there? Are you there? Will you answer me?

Ali was losing the connection. She had felt so angry and frustrated, and sad and disgusted, that she felt herself slipping from Andrew’s mind. The faint sound of a clarinet in the background echoed through the song, and she fought to keep the connection.

She could tell she was almost done- she just had to finish.

Andrew was collared, muzzled, beaten, bloody, and broken. 

He had betrayed himself, and fully gave in.

The pain became too much, the constant battle between himself, and that man. So he gave up. And Ali could see him slowly becoming everything that Splice wanted him to be, doing everything he was asked, taking every punishment, submitting to every command.

“You can be good right?”

Andrew was nodding.

He was obeying, he was following, and he was slowly decaying.

In my dreams, my beloved lies beside me When the sun lights the room, I find it's only me Only me when the sun is gone.

The memories rushed by faster now. She could tell they were getting closer to the present. 

Andrew was terrified. He was so scared, and in so much pain, and so exhausted, that when he finally saw his friends again, he didn’t recognize them.

Ali understood that he was so focused on avoiding pain, and being good, that he didn’t even comprehend his saving grace, as it stood before his eyes.

And then, when he was finally able to comprehend what happened, he was punished again. He was beaten bloody, he was branded, burned, scarred, and tortured. And he was led to believe that everyone he loved had died.

No wonder he had been so out of it, anytime he was awake for more than a moment he was confused. Or in disbelief or misunderstanding.

Because according to him, everyone was dead. 

And he probably thought that he was too.

Only me.  With the world all around me. When the sun and moon and stars are gone, what’s left is only you.

Ali had to fix this. 

Her entire body was shaking, she had never stayed inside someone’s mind for so long before. She clenched her fists, focused her breathing, and projected her thoughts, forcing the truth into Andrew’s mind.

She echoed words and phrases of love, of peace, of safety, over and over again, until they were shouting louder than his own megaphone of pain. Until she was sure he could hear her.

You belong to yourself.

You are Andrew. A friend, a brother, and you are worthy of love, and peace.

You are safe, at home. And we will always be with you.

Because you deserve it. You are worthy, and you are more than a tool to be used.

Because we love you.

Andrew- we love you!

Will you answer me? Answer me.

- - -

@imagination1reality0 @just-a-whumping-racoon-with-wifi @thehopelessopus @burtlederp @whump-me-all-night-long @yesthisiswhump

There’s the video of the song from this chapter. It’s called “Answer Me” from The Band’s Visit.

[devil-in-those-eyes]

One Day Part 2- Rudy Pankow

GUYS, I am SO sorry. I didn't think it would take me this long to get to part two, and I would have finished it yesterday, had I not lost my documents to do with this story, so I actually lost a few people that wanted to be tagged, so if you find it and you’re not there, please message me and I will get you added. This part isn't what I originally wanted, I wanted more added but I didn't want to overload you guys, so it’ll be continued in the next part. 

I hope you guys love this part.

Taglist: @thebendslikebendover @awkwardnesshabitat @dpaccione @danicarosaline @infinityspacesuniverse @pogues-never-say-die @poguescollins  @collectiveuniverses @jjmaybankx @diorsfxck @1d5sosddl @k-k0129 @popcrone818 

~

           “You literally promised.”

           “Something came up,” you tried again, looking up from your plate of food and at Henning, who had stolen a chair from a table that an older couple was sitting at and made room for himself as you sat at a little café with Kennedy, Zoe and Jamie for breakfast.

           “Something came up?” Henning echoed, leaning his elbow on the arm rest and leaned closer to you. “You promised me and Jamie you’d come.”

           You did promise him and you couldn’t deny it, but you also couldn’t tell him the real reason why you were suddenly going back on your word. The Pankow’s were having their yearly family cookout and they always extended the offer to you, despite the break up because they adored you. This year, when Jamie and Henning begged you to come, you agreed. Except, when you agreed Rudy wasn’t home. And you two didn’t have an argument on the back porch of Jamie’s cabin.

           There was no way in hell you could go, but again you couldn’t tell Henning that his older brother was the reason why. To Henning, Rudy was absolutely everything. Rudy and Alec were idolized in his eyes, they were the reason the sun shined and the moon and stars came out at night. To you, Henning was still the little kid that ran around pulling your hair and annoying, granted he still actually did it, he didn’t fully understand what happened or why and you didn’t expect him too. You kept him in the dark because it didn’t concern him and you didn’t want to make him feel like he had to pick sides when you were still showing up to his soccer matches and joining Jamie and Penny and Andrew to his high school graduation. He was too young when you and Rudy broke each others hearts and he never experienced love like what was between you and Rudy, he just wouldn’t get it.

           “I just can’t,” you said, lifting your coffee and taking a sip.

           “Y/N, we live in freaking Alaska,” he said in a bored groan, “you work for your mom and dad, what could possibly have come up since two nights ago?”

           “Henning, I just can’t,” you said, your voice a little loud. You closed your eyes briefly before turning your eyes onto Henning and you instantly saw Rudy in him. They couldn’t be more opposite, but he did the same thing Rudy used to do when you guys fought.

           His jaw clenched, as if pushing his tongue against his teeth, before slowly dragging his eyes up to look at you, filled with disappointment. He was looking at you the same way that Rudy looked at you at the party. “Fine, Y/N.”

           You sighed as he pushed the chair back, “Henning, wait.”

           But he was gone, walking away in easy and long strides, heading towards his car. Your chest caved in on itself because you hated disappointing Henning.

           “Y’know that Penny and Andrew are doing it for Rudy, right?” Jamie said softly, to your right. You looked at him to see him lifting his mug, “Penny would be upset if you bailed, especially since she asked if you’d come.”

           If Jamie wanted to jab a little harder and add a little guilt trip into it, then adding about Penny was the freaking way to do it. You all but groaned at his words as the guilt suddenly washed over you.

           You were totally aware that Penny would be upset if you bailed. You were also aware that it was for Rudy, you just didn’t know it when Jamie and Henning asked you to be there.. You didn’t know that Penny and Andrew were planning it in celebration for their son in the beginning, but now you could see it clearly. You also knew Penny would be upset if you didn’t show your face. Penny was like the mother of all mothers, in everyone’s eyes she was perfect. She was the one anyone could tell anything too, she was your mom when yours wasn’t picking up the phone. She had all but adopted Jamie when he and Rudy met in elementary school. She opened her arms wide when Rudy came home and announced you were his girlfriend and she kept those arms open when you broke up.

           Penny and Andrew never made you feel awkward, or as if their son was better off without you. She was always warm and had a colorful aura about her, it was like she ignored the heart break you felt because all she wanted to do was act like the break up never happened. Sometimes you wondered if she was still silently rooting for you and Rudy and it made it harder, because you had to stop wishing for it.

           “Jamie,” you started but then stopped yourself, looking down at your food. In all actuality, you didn’t know if you could see Rudy after two nights ago. It brought back too many feelings, too many memories and for some reason, you just couldn’t shake him, even years later.

           Why would you subject yourself to it? Subject yourself to his judgmental eyes as he questioned your taste in men? He couldn’t judge, or speak on who you decided to date because it wasn’t his concern, he made it perfectly clear the type of friendship he wanted to keep with you. And that was the type of friendship that never spoke.

           “You don’t even have to speak to Rudy,” Kennedy tried, trying to smile but failed miserably.

           “What the hell, yes she does. It’s his party, dumbass.” Zoe argued before looking at me, “Listen, pull on those big girl panties and just go, for Penny.”

           Zoe’s jab about quit being a pussy was softened by bringing up Penny, almost made you smile. Nothing bad could come out of going, right? Alec was finally home and you hadn’t seen him in years, it would make your week to see Penny and Andrew. And who knows, maybe Rudy will be so busy with talking with family and entertaining Chase that he wouldn’t even notice you there.

           All you had to do was go, show your face to his parents, shove it in Henning’s face and stay for an hour. Tops. Then you can retreat back to your safe haven of a home and pretend like you were well on your way with moving on from Rudy.

           Lying to yourself will get you no where.

           You ignored the little voice in your head and said softly, “Fine.”

           Jamie and Zoe looked all too smug that they had guilted you into it. Kennedy just sat there, raising her glass of water to her mouth, using her swallow of water to hide her smile. She might not have done as much as the other too, but she sure as shit was happy you’d be there.

           While they went on with their conversation, talking about what they wanted to do this summer as a group, besides work and prepare for an upcoming final year of school. While this happened, you sat there silently and couldn’t help but start to feel like the world was sinking around on you.

           What good would this bring you? Zoe and Kennedy understood where you stood with your feelings on Rudy, but for some freaking reason they were pushing and you didn’t understand what they were pushing for. Were they that blind, did they honestly believe Rudy would somehow stay longer than a week? Or two weeks? No, he wouldn’t. His life was now in California and yours was here, thousands of miles away. You were living separate lives and it was too different to pull off long distance… right?

           Typically, summer days went quickly for you. It had a lot to do with the fact that you were either working or with your group of friends finding things to do, but today just seemed to drag on. You were stuck inside your head and couldn’t get out, wondering how tonight would go with Rudy somewhere nearby, your stomach was constantly swirling with nervous butterflies, heart thumping heavily as you slowly pulled up to the Pankow residence. Hands trembled and knees shook as you parked your car among the others that littered the street.

           Just breathe.

           It wasn’t like Rudy would be upset that you were going to show your face. It wasn’t like you and Rudy left Jamie’s porch angry at one another, in fact you heard the pain inside his voice and saw the sadness drowning his blue ocean eyes. You saw the way his eyes avoided you, could barely look at you as Tucker wrapped his arms around your shoulders, as if he could barely stomach the idea of you being with someone that wasn’t him.

           Rudy being home threw you off so deeply that you hadn’t really talked with Tucker the last few days. You’ve been so stuck in the memories and living in the world of what if that Tucker hadn’t been on your mind, but he didn’t seem to mind. You and Tucker weren’t officially together, he wasn’t your boyfriend, you two were just dating and having fun. Or attempting to have fun.

           Just breathe.

           The backyard of the Pankow residence was swimming with people. Lots of them you recognized from his family, his uncles and aunts and cousins and family friends, teachers that Rudy had bonded deeply with. But no where did you find the familiarity of Zoe’s deep green eyes, or Kennedy’s blonde hair, of Jamie’s laugh that seemed to calm you as you stood, sticking out like a sore thumb.

           You wiped your sweaty palms over the thighs of your ripped jeans, tugging your light sweater closer to your chest, looking around for them.

           A blur of short, light colored hair and blue dress moved around you but then whirled around after seemingly catching sight of you.

           “Well, well, look who decided to grace me with her presence.” Penny teased, coming to a stop in front of you while carrying a big bowl of salad.

           Your cheeks flamed as she grinned at you. “Hi, Penny.”

           “Aren’t you a sight,” she said, taking you in. “You aren’t the skinny little seventeen year old anymore, are ya?”

           “Oh, god, please stop.” You groaned, your hand covering your cheek, attempting to stop the blush. You hated when she did this, giving compliment after compliment when she saw you. You didn’t think you changed too much since seventeen, but apparently you did. You gained a few pounds, thank you college, hair longer and better choices in clothing.

           Penny laughed and stepped towards you, “Bring it in, hon.”

           Penny balanced the bowl on her hip and opened an arm wide, you couldn’t help yourself in feeling giddy. You always loved Penny. You had a great relationship with your parents, but Penny was Penny, and the idea of seeing her smiling at you was part of the reason why you got out of your car.

She rubbed your back and pulled away, “You’re not leaving this house until we catch up, so have some wine and food and I’ll find you.”

           “Deal,” you promised her and watched as she walked away.

           For the first time all day, your lungs opened up and a steady breath filled your body. It released in a heavy puff, but you finally felt somewhat comfortable being here. Now, all you had to do was find your friends.

           “They’re in the kitchen.”

           You nearly fell over by the sudden voice that appeared behind you, startling you and making you whirl around to find Rudy standing there, with his hands in the front pockets of his light jeans. Your heart screamed at you as one hand reached up and slid through his hair and rested on the back of his neck, “Kennedy and Zoe dragged Jamie inside to make margaritas… that’s who you’re looking for, right?”

           He looked so handsome in his jeans and white button up shirt, that was tucked into the waist of his jeans. You felt your heart thump to a soft murmur of his name. Rudy.

           “Why am I not surprised?” you said, finally finding your voice.

           “Yeah, apparently Zo and Kenn don’t like beer?” He asked, “and my aunt brought long island mix and that’s out of the question?”

           As Rudy spoke, your face twisted into a grimace and your stomach twisted. Rudy smiled immediately at your face and you said, “We learned real quick at college that long islands are not our thing.”

           “Yeah, Zo said something about snow angels in the dead ass of winter?” Rudy said, seeming to get rid of nervous tension in his shoulders and relaxing as he looked down at you, still grinning.

           “Listen, the bartender was really nice but we didn’t know that those contain every liquor on shelf.” You defended, remembering the first winter break you guys had come home from college and ended up at a bar outside of town where the bartender didn’t card. “It didn’t hit us until Jamie and Collin tried getting us home.”

           Rudy chuckled lowly, “god, what a sight that probably was.”

           “I don’t actually remember doing the snow angels, but I woke up shivering and throwing up, massive hangover.”

           This time, Rudy’s laugh was loud and you suddenly felt a swell inside your chest that resembled proud. Proud that you made him laugh like you used too, the type of laugh that had his head tilting back and his eyes closing briefly. He looked back down at you and shook his head, “Baby-” Rudy caught himself, quickly recovering, “Y/N, come on. You shouldn’t have trusted the bartender.”

           You almost didn’t catch it, but you were paying such close attention to him that it was clear as day. The last few minutes felt too closely to old times that it showed you he still hadn’t broken the habit of calling you baby, you almost begged him to say it again, just to hear it roll off of his tongue.

           The idea of hearing it again had you blushing and looking down. You cleared your throat before lifting your head and motioning to Rudy’s porch, “In the kitchen?”

           Silently, still watching you, he nodded. You moved around him and started making your way inside. Rudy followed you, and suddenly you went from being calm to your palms sweating, all because he called you baby.

           Your friends were where he said, standing in a corner of the kitchen next to the blender. Jamie stood with Rudy’s friend, Chase, with beers in their hands while the two girls looked excited for the mixed drinks, a bottle of Patron sat next to the blender.

           Kennedy was the first to see you and a broad grin broke out on her face, “Best friend!”

           You laughed as Zoe’s head whipped around, her arms widening at the sight of you. “Bestie!”

           “Friends!” You exclaimed excitedly and left Rudy, bouncing towards your friends and giving Zoe a tight hug, despite just seeing them this morning.

           “Good lord, we just saw her,” Jamie said as you let go of Zoe and faced Jamie. You felt less nervous as you were surrounded by your three friends, despite Rudy took the spot between you and Chase. You reached and grasped either side of Jamie’s face and planting a sweet kiss on his cheek. “Yeah, yeah, get off.”

           Despite telling you to get off, Jamie’s arm wrapped around your waist. You laughed and smiled at him, “Good to see you, Jamie.” You said as his arm finally unraveled and rolled his eyes. You finally took your spot between Rudy and Zoe again, your arm accidently brushing against Rudy’s warm skin and almost halting you, but then you felt the light glide of his fingers through the sweater and shirt, against your lower back.

           “You must be Y/N,” Chase said, turning his eyes onto you.

           “Hi,” You said, giving him a smile, which only made his warm one grow. “Chase, right?”

           He nodded, “Nice to finally meet you. Rudy’s told me a lot about you.”

           You almost groaned with a slight grimace, “good things?”

           Chase grinned, “great things.”

           You slowly lifted your eyes to look at Rudy, and could have sworn that his cheeks had gone pink but he covered it up by lifting his beer and taking a sip. He didn’t meet your eyes and you felt a small twinge of disappointment, so while your friends went on to make plans for hiking tomorrow, you faced them and tried to engage in the conversation about wanting to show Chase around.

           Rudy slowly leaned in, his heat filling up your side as his mouth dropped to your ear. “How could I not talk about you?” He whispered, making your heart stop inside your chest. When he pulled back a few inches you tilted your head to look at him, no smile or humor filled his face. His bright eyes were just watching you, taking in your eyes and blushing cheeks, pausing to look at your parted lips while the tip of his tongue darted out to wet his bottom lip.

           “I always talk about you,” he whispered again, finally drawing his eyes up to yours.

           It was like you could hear his heart pound with two words. One Day.

[iloverubberduckiez-blog]

Partners- Reader x Hybrid!Maknae line

A/N: Don't know if ill write more and make a Lil series or keep this as a drabble

WC: 4k

Warnings:Fluff, possible smut if i continue. 

Rated: PG 13 i guess

After another long day at your shitty desk job as a secretary, you were on your way out when you get stopped by the department head.

“Hey Y/N, I'm glad I caught you!”

You inwardly groaned. All you wanted to do was to go home to your beautiful hybrid who you knew would no doubt whine about you coming home late. 1000 bucks says Mark was here to tell you that you would be delaying that peace a little longer.

“Mark please I am tired and I already worked two hours over today”

“Sorry Y/N. I have to stay too. We are expecting some big shot from the main branch and you and I get to personally oversee all things pertaining to him when he gets here. He’s gearing up to take over HQ as the new CEO”

“Oh my- No way.”

“Yup. Jackson Wang”

“Damn. well, he is super hot so I'm doing it for him, not you. When do we need what?” 

“He doesn't get in till next week so we will have time to prepare. Just letting yo know you can pass on the DRASS project to Amaya.”

“What no way that project is mine, it's literally all I've worked on for months-”

“And I know you were super excited to fly back to Kenya to help those people and see it through. I promise you will get full credit but We need this, trust me Jackson says he wants to pick his personal team from within the company. If we do well enough this will be the push we need and could select us as candidates.- You have a hybrid right? well, I have a family of five, and having extra money in the bank whether it's just a bonus for this or a whole new position will help us both and you know it.”

“okay” You relented with a sigh taking the folder from his hands.

“You should rest up this weekend so that we can meet up a little early next week to go over what needs to get done and how we can prepare for everything.”

“so i can go home now?”

Mark chuckles and nods. “ Run along, give your boy a hug from me” Mark kisses your forehead as has been the norm and walks away with a small wave towards his own car.

Leaving the office you groan after seeing the traffic. It was going to be a slow crawl in the car for like an hour before you make it back home.

“Y/N!” You didn't even unlock the door before you were bombarded with the full weight of the handsome hybrid you share a home with.

“Where were you? I was waiting for you for so long. I got us dinner but its all cold now” His voice a little muffled as he spoke into your hair.

“oh what did you eat?”

Taehyungs tummy growled.

 “I didn't. I wanted us to eat together because i got Lasagne, your favourite.” His tail which was wrapped around you as he had hugged you fell to the floor in sadness.

“I’m so sorry Tae.” You looked up to find his ears flattened on his head as his arms drop from your shorter frame. 

Taehyung’s eyes meet yours as he feels how your guilt seems to seep through and he gives you his beautiful signature boxy smile before picking you up and carrying you into your apartment.

“It’s okay Y/N we can reheat it.”

You kiss him on the check and go into your room to change into something comfortable before joining Tae back in the kitchen and sitting on one of the stools.

“Wine M’lady.” Taehyung poured two glasses and reached for your hand leading you to the couch.

“c’mon it will take a while to heat nicely in the oven.”

You nodded and followed him hi sat first then pat his lap. You looked at him questioningly.

“First my favourite meal and then expensive wine? It's not my birthday Tae.By the way this wine is like 1922 grade $400 bucks stuff how in the world did you get some?”

Taehyung chuckled.“I just wanna sit and cuddle with you and have a nice evening together plus you smell like a squirrel.”

You caved and snuggled beside Taehyung instead of on his lap but he just pulled you closer to him nuzzling your hair and drawing little patterns on your arms.

You inwardly facepalmed, of course, Tae’s sensitive nose picks up on all the people from work and apparently most pungently your intern who had sent his Squirrel hybrid to give in some documents to you halfway through a meeting - “I can go take a shower-”

“No don't go please i just missed you a lot today is all.”

“ You sure? Nothing else? Nothing bothering you?”

“Nothing at all.”

It was not nothing.

Taehyung had spent the better part of the morning crying his eyes out after overhearing your conversation to Seokjin. He didn't mean to eavesdrop, in fact, he was going to come and give you a hug good morning but what he heard made him stop dead in his tracks. 

“He’s a beautiful Calico cat Y/N, i think that it could be a good match for you. You did say you had always wanted a cat right? well this is your chance and he will dote on you hand and foot- you work too much honestly when do you take time to read and breathe?”

Tae robotically walked away tail tucked in between his legs and retreated to the bathroom He didn't bother with the rest of the conversation he was just numb. He turned on the shower but made no other moves towards actually showering. All he could think of was that maybe you were trying to replace him, that he wasn't enough for you or maybe that he was just too much and you didn't love him anymore. He heard you knock on the door announcing your departure for work but he couldn't bring himself to respond. After crying for what felt like hours Tae looked at his phone. You had sent a message.

“Tae,

Had to leave early,U might not have heard me in the shower.Take care. Y/N”

Taehyung felt morose. No “I love you” or cute emoji. He sighed and went to your room. Laying on your bed he snuggled up to one of your pillows and managed to fall asleep. It ended up only being a nap as Taehyung woke around an hour later. Eyes still puffy and with a sniffle, he sat up determined and decided to do something special for you.

“Hey Hyung”

“What do you wan- Is Y/N Okay? Did you start a fire again?”

Taehyung deadpanned. “Hyung that was one time!”

“Okay, what's wrong little brother?”

Taehyung whined. he felt the beginnings of tears stirring up again.

“come over. Hoseok has a day off today. Or do you just wanna talk to me?”

“I’ll be right there”

Yoongi sighed rubbing his fingers over his temples. Hoseok was currently now consoling his little brother who after regaling his story managed to upset himself and break down into full-blown tears again.

“I knew something was up I *Hic* didn't think she, we would ever be apart” 

Yoongi sat on Taehyungs opposite side and pulled him into a hug after wiping some of his tears.

“It’s just a big misunderstanding okay she is just working really hard she’s not trying to abandon you.”

“Hyung you don't know that. Easy for you to say because you have Hoseok- Hyung.”

“And it's only because of her that I got adopted by him remember? She wanted us both but she didn't have the means to look after both of us so she called all her friends willing to take a hybrid on and then she said that she was sorry she couldn't do more but at least we would be able to see each other. She’s the reason we can still talk, see each other despite being separated, and hang out.”

Hoseok nods, “She got an extra bed in your room too for Yoongi to come to stay over whenever he wanted and she gave him the spare key remember? I don't even have a spare and I've known her longer-”

“she likes us better” Taehyung and Yoongi snapped to Hoseok at the same time.

Hoseok laughed. “well glad to know where I stand. I wouldn't hold it against you if you moved now, she earns enough to support you now...so if-”

Yoongi smiled “You would be hopeless without me and you know it.”

Hoseok scratched behind Yoongi’s ears and with a smile, he began “Well if you want my advice on this-”

“We don’t,” The hybrid brothers said again in unison.

Hoseok rolled his eyes and mumbled about getting something to eat and calling Seokjin to figure out what was going on.

Yoongi’s heart was aching for Taehyung. He wanted nothing more than to see his beautiful smile again.

“Y/N likes Lillies why don't you buy her some and like welcome her with those and some chocolates or something when she gets home?”

Taehyung sighed. “I thought about that but it feels too simple and like something anyone could come up with.” His eyes glazed over to the Tv where a couple was horseriding on a ranch. Immediately Taehyung lit up.

” That's it!”

“Tae we can't buy a horse ranch, even with all three of us chipping in”

“Not the ranch Hyung. Y/N likes this special wine that you can only get at a few places. If I get her a bottle and cook her a fancy dinner she can remember why she only needs me.”

Hoseok came back to the living room.

“oh, I have a bottle from the last time we went to the ranch as a group the chateau right? I was gonna wait for her birthday and surprise her but you can have it Tae,”

Taehyung glomped Hoseok in gratitude.

“cant breathe Tae”

“sorry.”

Yoongi stood up scrolling on his phone. “what did Soekjin say?”

Taehyungs smile dropped and his face morphed into nervous worry. Yoongi placed a comforting hand on his brother's shoulder expecting bad news from the way he reacted.

“He is out of town for the weekend. Some big trip so I could only leave a voicemail. It’s probably nothing. Anyway, you should go on and get dinner ready for Y/N before she gets home right?”

Taehyung brightened a little and skilled nodding. Before he left Yoongi said he should probably order food so he doesn't poison you or set the place on fire. He left feeling optimistic and hopeful that he could mend things with you. He wanted to help take better care of you he promised himself.

You woke up to the smell of burnt pancakes and Hot chocolate. Following the scent, you found Tae in the kitchen attentively staring at the pancake until a small ding went off on his phone. Shutting off the timer he placed a layer of batter where the last pancake just lay and set the timer again. You watched him fondly before he plated this one and poured honey over it. Putting the plate on a tray with the precut fruits and hot chocolate his ears went up as he sniffed the air. Turning around he saw you in the doorframe.

“Y/N...i-i made breakfast” He hastily grabbed your hand and led you back to you room tucking you in, before rushing out and bringing the tray with him.

Your heart swelled at this blessing of a man in front of you and he watched with rapt attention as you cut off a piece of the pancake before placing it in your mouth.

“How is it?” His ears sagged over his head expecting rejection.

“I can make you an omelet instead if you-”

“Taehyung it's the best pancake I’ve ever eaten.”

He buried his face in your pillow at your praise, tail wagging happily. You offered him a strawberry and a piece of the pancake and he hummed happily.

After sharing breakfast together you spent the day spring cleaning together before spending the rest of the day on a movie marathon. On Sunday You were both invited to game night at Hoseoks and You and Tae were a dynamite team as usual with Yoongi coming in to troll Hoseok much to his displeasure.

“I look forward to working with you further Mr wang.” you held out your hand. Jackson laughed and gave you a hug instead. 

“No way just call me Jackson. I’ve been friends with Mark forever so any friend of his is a friend of mine, also you come at a right recommendation, which is surprising cos he can be a bit of a downer.”

“I’m right here you know!” 

“I’m so grateful for you for doing this at such last minute. i know it was a lot to organise in the given time frame Y/N.” 

“Not at all, Mr wa- Jackson.”

You all stayed in his office with some comfortable banter before going home.

Taehyung called over to you and began to advance happily towards you before he stopped and sniffed you strangely. You wanted to ask him what the problem was but your phone chimed. it was Soekjin- he was calling you. You declined the call because you remembered you needed to tell Tae what was going on so that you could get his opinion on things.

“It might be urgent, if he keeps calling you like that. Go see what your human friend wants.”

“Do you not like Jin? Since when? Tae what’s-”

“You’ve been talking a lot to whoever lately and you smell like a new scent and a hybrid and I feel tired so I’ll probably just go hang out at Hyung’s.”

“No wait Taehyung I’m not trying to have secrets or hide anything from you but there is something important I need to tell you.”

Taehyung huffed and went to go sit down as you took his hands in yours. He looked like how you found him 2 years ago a wounded puppy with eyes full of love and brimming with sadness.

“Things are a bit crazy at the shelter and Jin needs help in housing some of the Hybrids temporarily. Some can go to other shelters but some need a more... loving environment, calmer without the more violent hybrids sharing with the weaker type ones. I offered to take two of them in while he figures everything out. I know its a lot and if you don't want to, we will just stay just us but if Jin is overcrowded he’s at risk of getting shut down and then they could all end up on the streets I-”

“It's okay.”

You blinked. “Huh?”

“It's just temporary, right? I can understand that we shouldn't let anyone be on the streets if we can help.”

“really? you’re fine with this?”

“It’s...I will be able to deal with it. But I want strawberry cake and I’m not sharing”

“Of course Tae. Guess I should call Jin and tell him the great news!” You chirped and went to grab your phone. You didn't notice the sheer rejection that he tried to hold in.

Jungkook and Jimin stood behind Jin. The latter holding Jin’s shirt as he explained some of the pills he had brought along for their nutrition and bringing along some bags with groceries. You reached to take it and Jungkook took them all in your stead silently trying to minimize eye contact with you.

“Thank you Jungkookie.”

Embarrased, Jungkook stuttered out. “I-Its the least I can do after you are being so kind.” You practically melted and pet the Muscle bunny softly at the base of his ears and he stomped his foot a little and grinned showing his toothy smile.

Jimin, not to be outdone, said he could help you pack everything away and let go of Jin who was trying to remain them of something that they were tuning out in their silent contest to impress you. You tried to place a jar on a shelf too high and fell back into JK who caught you and placed it up for you instead. Jimin began whining that he could have done it for you but he was busy with the things in the fridge.

Taehyungs loud sneeze broke up the rowdy lot of you.

Jungkook gripped your waist in fear and stayed behind you as you faced Taehyung. Jimin in shock had hit his head on the shelf of the fridge and tried to catch some of the items that threatened to spill out.

Tehyung seeing Jungkook’s hand on your waist had yanked you out of his grasp and began scenting you and sending a snarl their way.

You sighed. This was how Taehyungs been acting ever since you started the project with Jackson. Pretty much anything could set him off but you felt bad because you should have been more understanding of how this may look in his eyes.

“ Jin, Rabbit, feline”

“Tae, Longtime! Sorry if we woke you. this is Jungkook he's a black Holland Lop and Jimin is a calico cat.”

“I’m Y/N’s Siberian husky.” Tae said to the other two before looking back to Jin.

“ I was awake- Hyung i was finishing the laundry for the new...guests.”

You spun around in his arms to face him. Petting his ears as he cooed into your touch “Aww Tae I told you I’d manage it”

Jin’s ringtone killed the silence and he dashed out telling you to call if any problems arose.

Thereafter you got the boys settled into Taehyung’s room. With a sigh you went and faceplanted into your sheets only to have Taehyung come and crawl beside you. After half an hour when you tried to get up Taehyung just grumbled and  held you tighter.”

“Tae i have to go to”

“work I know” He said with a sigh reluctantly letting you go. 

“Today’s a chilled day we will be done early. Besides, you guys can use this time to bond and make friends.” At his whine, you kissed the top of his head. “ please? For me, try?” 

Six weeks later all of you have somewhat of a comfortable rythym in the household. On a day off you decided it would be fun to go to the beach. Jimin offered to pack a picnic for everyone and Jungkook and Taehyung were moody on the drive over because they didn't think of it first. You had also told him since he was so helpful he could sit in the passenger seat and Jimin spent the whole ride grinning like the cat who got the cream.

Once there you were happy to let the boys wander off to their heart's content after setting up your belongings under a beach umbrella.

Jungkook had other plans. He worked very hard on his physique and although shy he still remembers the first time he came back shirtless from a run and found you on the couch. You tried to hide it but He knows you checked him out and you were definitely attracted to him the way your eyes hungrily racked over his body. Since that day he would be on the lookout for any golden opportunities to be close to you. Honestly, Taehyung had it made. You were kind, smart, hardworking, and breathtakingly beautiful. So often he dreamt of you as his and he knew the others thought the same. Officially though he was still a foster, Jimin had reminded him that morning and their place here wasn't secured so Jimin said he was gonna up the Ante. At first, Jungkook ignored him and went to shower but when he emerged to the sound of you praising Jimin for coming up with such a cute and thoughtful idea, He knew he needed a plan of his own. 

Taehyung excused himself for the bathroom and Jimin was looking around for the cooler box. He decided to go and check in the car leaving Jungkook alone with you. This was his moment. He stripped himself of his shirt and innocently asked if you would come to the water with him. He rationalized his need for an escort being that he was not used to such big crowds of people and thus managed to convince you out of your sundress to reveal your bikini and guide him by the hand towards the water.

Jungkook was Jungshook at the two-piece and how you looked in it enjoying the view until some guy came out trying to talk to you. That snapped him out of his daze and he flung you over his shoulder and bolted into the water trying to shield your body for his admiration alone. You were having a ball of a time and Jungkook got to stay near you and hold you claiming to save you from sharks if you found any.

Jimin had stomped away to the car and after retrieving the cooler box which he was pretty sure Jungkook was supposed to carry happily bounded to the store to get ice for the drinks on the way back. He also spotted a local artist doing caricatures and thought to remember to bring you over later for a couple picture together. He knew you weren't a couple but Jimin was smitten for you. He was slightly confused as to why Tae didn't have a romantic relationship with you, or at least you weren't his mate so he still had a shot. The only thing in his way now was the little maknae and his cute bunny-like stupid smile and ‘helpful groping’. Jungkook certainly wasn't shy in trying to subtle scent you when you were distracted anymore, not like how it was when they first arrived. No, they had gone from not trying to interfere with your and Tae’s relationship to wanting their own with you, a romantic one. The mystery now was why arent you and Taehyung together? Was it because he was a hybrid or was he just not the right guy? did you reject Taehyung before? Did you get rejected by Taehyung and now he regrets it and wants you back? Jimin didn’t care he wanted you and that was final. Even if you never returned his feelings even just being by your side could be enough for him, enough that he could get over sharing your affection with Taehyung after all he was the first even if he hates to admit it.

Taehyung almost dropped the Icecream cones in his hands.

 Its been so long since you two had come to the beach, in fact, the last time was when Yoongi had hinted at you two being an adorable couple. Taehyung had gotten you ice cream to share and you had some dribble down from your mouth to your chin. Taehyung did it before his brain was able to process the action, he licked a stripe from your chin to your lips lingering for a second before placing a chaste kiss there. You were embarrassed, to say the least, and Tae hid his own embarrassment by getting up to toss a ball back to a bunch of kids playing volleyball. When he came back he noticed you with some of Yoongi’s cocktail and the two of you managed to finish the jug just between the two of you. Later at home Yoongi and Hoseok took to the twin beds in Tae’s room and you pulled him into your room. Tae had discovered you were really handsy and although he wanted you so badly you were both too drunk to do more than sleep after a sloppy makeout session. The next morning you had woken up first and Left some water and ibuprofen with an apple by his side. His morning wood making him panic in short horror prompting a quick cold shower. While he discarded his clothes he saw your underwear that you had slept in still coated in fragments of your arousal, on top of the laundry hamper and grabbed it as he stepped in the shower. It was the first time he had taken your underwear.

Yoongi had told him then to let you bring it up- the idea of you guys figuring out what you want moving forward as it was clear to him and Hoseok that you two were lusting after one another but was it anything more? Taehyung was in the midst of figuring out his feelings for you and what everything meant and how things were going to be different but you came in the apartment with breakfast goodies in tow. You managed to still look effortlessly beautiful in the morning and Tae was so happy that you got him his favourite things for breakfast from your waffle house.

“Tae, I’m so sorry about yesterday i was super drunk”

“I was drunk too Y/N its fi-”

“No it’s I'm sorry can we just forget this all happened i don't want to loose you Tae I love you. Can we move on please?”

Taehyungs heart shattered across the floor but he nodded and to put insult to injury you kissed his cheek before scolding Hobi for drinking The hot chocolate you meant for Taehyung and yourself.

“I’m sorry lil bro. If you wanna stay with us we can share my room, i have a double bed and Hobi can-”

“Its okay Yoongi- Hyung. I can keep it together for now, ill give it some time and if that doesn't work I’ll confess and we work from there. For now, her loving me is enough, even if its just friends. This love and adoration from her is enough.”

It’s Not Fucking Enough. Not anymore. That was then when he had you all to himself, No new boss keeping you at work always hugging you, No Bunny, no Cat. No it was war now, and Tae has just about reached his limit.

[ravenforce]

Manhattan 8

Word Count: 4557

A/N: Hi! I’m alive. I’m so sorry it took so long for me to write again but here I am. Anyway, I hope you guys are still practicing social distancing and still following the safety protocols wherever you are. Stay safe and healthy, y’all. Let me know what you think of this. I only proofread this once, so have mercy on me. xx

Summary: Definitely not what you asked for. :)

Parts: 1 |  2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 9

*** 

“Lou?” 

The Heist crew looked at each other across the board room while Lou just continues to stare blankly out the tall window, unable to hear anyone around her. It’s the time of the year again. The anniversary of the day Lou lost you.

“Lou?” Debbie tried to get her attention by standing directly at her line of sight. 

Lou blinked twice before looking up at Debbie. “Shit,” she muttered under her breath and sat up straighter. “Sorry, I was elsewhere.”

“We were just asking if you’re ready with the marketing of this joint exhibit with Selene Quaid?” 

“Yes but we’re still waiting for Quaid and her team’s feedback about the graphics,” Lou assured her best friend with a smile. 

Debbie stared at her for a couple of seconds before nodding and turning back to the whole team. Lou didn’t dare look back to her friends in fear to see them pitying her for being unable to move on after two years now. Yes, it’s been two years since she thought walking away would be easy but it was far from it. It was agonizing and physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausting. Especially when she thought seeing you, even from afar, would ease the pain but didn’t.

For the first few months after you left, Lou made secret trips every weekend to visit Tate and hopefully catch a glimpse of you. At first, she was elated to see you thriving; the museum is indeed your natural habitat but as time goes by, it hurts even more because she misses you tremendously. She misses sharing life with you, that’s why it pains her to see you living one that she can’t be a part of. She owns the pain, she knows she brought it upon herself. So, she sucked it up. 

Until she got an intervention. 

“You thought we didn’t know? You’re always away on the weekends. You’re not on Ithaca, and you’re not with your brothers,” Debbie says gently as they sit Lou on their board room. Her brothers were in attendance too. 

“Rats,” she hissed while looking at Thor and Loki who was leaning against the far wall. 

Her friends chuckled. “They didn’t snitch on you. Nine found your trail.”

She whipped her head back to her friends, eyes wide in surprise. “What?”

“You didn’t give us any choice,” Tammy said while playing at the ends of her blonde hair. A telltale sign that she’s nervous. “You won’t talk to us.” 

“That didn’t give you the right to hack my email though.”

Lou crossed her arms across her chest. Daphne chuckled at the childish pout on their friend’s face. 

“This can’t go on forever, Lou,” Daphne said. “When’s the last time you spent time with us?” Daphne gestured to everyone in the room. “With your brothers?” 

Lou caught her brother’s eyes and suddenly she felt a wave of guilt. “We need you here too,” Thor says sincerely. “We all do.” 

Loki nodded. “We know you love her. We know that she loves you too. She wouldn’t want this for you.” Loki admonished. “You said you did what you did because you didn’t want Y/N to spread herself thin for you. Well, guess what, as her friend, we know she wouldn’t want this for you too.”

She admits it. Flying back and forth every week was taking a toll on her. So, she relented to visiting Tate at least two times a month. Until it became once a month, then just whenever she’s free or whenever missing you get so intense.

She knew she couldn’t put her life on hold forever. 

She knew she can’t just sit around and mope, and wait for you to come home. 

***

With the joint exhibit happening in five days, everyone was legit on their toes with everything that needs to be done. The whole office was buzzing with activity the moment Lou walked in at 8 in the morning. Agatha just put the box of breakfast pastries down the one table where everyone likes to work even though they all have designated desks when she walked in.

“Good morning Lou,” Agatha greeted with a smile before handing her, her favourite coffee.

“Morning.” She smiled back before glancing towards Debbie who’s pacing back and forth inside her glass office. “What’s wrong?”

“Debbie’s frustrated that Quaid still hasn’t approved Daphne’s marketing collateral.”

“Has anyone spoken with Quaid?” She asked pensively.

“Yes. Quaid’s secretary said someone will be coming over to represent her,” Tammy answered, rolling her chair away from her computer. Before she can respond though, Charlie entered the room at the same time Debbie exited her office.

“What is it, Charlie?” Debbie asked, immediately picking up on Charlie’s excited demeanour.

“Quaid’s representative is outside,” he responded with a broad smile.

Everyone raised their eyebrow at him. “Well, what are you waiting for? Let them in,” Daphne sassed.

“She picked up a call but will be with us right about -” Charlie paused. The door to the office opened. “Now.”

And to everyone’s surprise, you walked in.

***

A collective gasped was heard across the room before silence swept through it. You looked at Charlie who has already recovered from his shock at seeing you again after two long years. You turned back to everyone before smiling.

“Hey.” You greeted. Lou’s heart skipped a beat and ached at the same time. Your voice shook everyone out of their reverie, making everyone simultaneously yell your name in excitement and gather around you.

Nine was the first to reach you and almost tackle you down in a tight hug. “Y/N!” she yelled as she wraps her arms around you tightly. “Oh! My! God! I can’t believe you’re here!”

Daphne, Debbie, and Rose, who weren’t much of a hugger just sidled next to you. “You look all grown up, Y/L/N.” Debbie noticed. Of course, she’ll still be too cool to give direct compliments. You smiled your thanks.

“You were cute before in your graphic tees and distressed jeans. Now, you definitely look -” Daphne stopped to consider her next words.

Nine pulled away from you to look at you a once over. “Hot! Definitely fucking hot, if you asked me” she finished for Daphne making the brunette roll her eyes at Nine’s choice of language.

“Good thing no one asked you,” Constance teased before coming over to give you a short hug, and a whispered ‘I missed you.’

You laughed at their antics but it was shortly interrupted by Rose’s hand touching the sleeve of your suit.

“Are these custom-made, darling?” She asked before she can help herself.

“Missed you too, Rose.” You teased. Rose looked at you wide-eyed and with a soft blush tainting her cheeks.

“Oh, no. I didn’t mean to seem more interested in your clothes -” she stuttered out. “-I missed you too, darling.”

“I’m joking, Rose.” You laughed. “And to answer your question, yes, the suit is custom made. I can’t really work in the museum wearing graphic tees, tattered jeans and converse. At least, not all the time.”

Tammy nearly cried before she could have a turn in wrapping you in her arms again. She still feels the warmest, her golden hair are still soft, and she still smell like fresh waffles in the morning. “Oh, are you still my baby?” Tammy wailed, cupping your cheeks and looking at you intently.

You can’t help but get teary-eyed too. You chuckled before nodding at Tammy’s question. “I am,” you said before you launched yourself at her. Aside from Nine and Lou, you’re closest with Tammy too. “I missed you so much, Tams.”

“I missed you so much, too, baby.” Tammy held you a little tighter. Amita who was behind Tammy took a closer look at you from the blonde’s shoulder.

“You look so different, Y/N,” Amita said before raising her hand for a fist bump. You were just about to raise your hand and tap Amita’s fist with yours when Lou’s voice cut through everything that’s been happening around you.

“I don’t think so. I think she looks the same.” Lou’s not looking at you but on her boots. “She’s still breathtaking though.”

Tammy let go of you so you can look at the blonde properly. Everyone held their breath in anticipation. This is, after all, the first time you’re seeing each other after all the mess that went down years prior.

You walked up to your ex-girlfriend. “Say it to my face, if you mean it.” Lou looked up at you in surprise.

“I-” She chewed her bottom lip. “-didn’t mean to say it out loud.” She looked uncharacteristically nervous. “But I do mean it. You look as beautiful as the day I met you.”

You didn’t say anything for a minute, making Lou’s heart almost jumped out of her ribcage. After a long pause, you smiled genuinely at her and opened your arms for a hug. To say that Lou was surprised was an understatement. She thought you would hate her for what she did but there you were opening your arms again for her.

She didn’t have to be asked twice, she stepped towards you and hugged your body close to her. She had to bite the inside of her cheeks to keep herself from sobbing. It’s been so long since she felt home.

***

Lou rolled out of her bed an hour before her alarm clock hits. She smiled at the ceiling before rolling out of bed and making her way to her open kitchen. She went directly to her coffee maker. She was humming softly while measuring coffee grinds for her morning rations when someone spoke from her couch. 

“Isn’t it a little too early to be this chirpy?” Nine groaned before burying her head on the pillow Lou lent her.

Lou nearly spilt the grounds over the counter in her surprise. She literally forgot that Nine and Tammy slept over to help finish some preparations for the meeting with you. Tammy stood up and stretched before walking up to Lou with a smile.

“Don��t take it personally. She’s never a morning person.” 

“Coffee?” Lou asked with a soft smile and a light blush adorning her cheek. 

“Yes, please.” Tammy sat on the stool by the counter and watched Lou’s back. “Are we having breakfast here or shall we have the kids (Agatha and Charlie) pick up some before heading to the office?”

Lou bit her bottom lip as she thinks about her options. She opened her fridge and studied the contents of it. “Well, I have enough ingredients for your packed breakfasts, if you want to cook.” 

Tammy immediately perked up at that. “Yes, please. I’ll make Y/N’s favourites.” 

Lou smiled and nodded, just in time for the coffee maker to finish brewing. She got a mug of black coffee before turning towards Tammy who was already opening her cupboards for everything that she’ll need.

“Alright. I’ll get out of your hair then.” Lou knows better to stay away from the kitchen when Tammy’s cooking. The woman prefers cooking alone as she knows that their crew tends to leave a bigger mess when they’re trying to help. 

Tammy just smiled and shooed her away. Nine walked in the open kitchen right when Lou seated at the balcony of her apartment. They both watched Lou with her eyes closed, face turned towards the early morning sun, and a soft smile on her face. 

“It’s been too long since I’ve seen her this -” Tammy paused, searching for the right word.

“Happy?” Nine tried to guess. Tammy shook her head lightly, watching Lou for another minute before she found the perfect word. 

“Alive.” 

***

Nine drove the three of them to work using Lou’s car. A testament of how good Lou must be feeling to let the tech girl drive her precious car. Lou just happily sat on the passenger seat, looking out of the window like she hasn’t lived in the city most of her adult life. 

“Nine-” Lou said without looking at the brunette. She just continued to survey the yellow taxi idle next to their car. 

“Yeah?” 

“Do you know if Y/N’s dating anyone?” 

Nine chuckled, Lou has been asking the same question at least every quarter of the year. Since Lou’s not on any social media platform, she didn’t have any means to watch over you. She told herself that making an Instagram account would be a violation of her efforts to move forward. She told herself it will also be futile since she’s sure you won’t let her follow you, as all your accounts are private. 

“You’ve asked this before and the answer is still the same.” Nine teased lightly before handing Lou her unlocked mobile phone. “Check for yourself. The girl still flies under the radar.” 

She scrolled through the endless apps installed in Nine’s phone before she found Instagram. She opened it and searched your handle through Nine’s following tab. True to her word, there’s really no sign that you’re romantically involved with someone.

Your feed is all travel photos, food crawls in your travel destinations, museums you’ve visited through London and other parts of Europe. There were also photos of your cosy apartment, and your pet cat but that’s it. One might say, there’s nothing juicy about it. You don’t even post selfies. Lou took one last quick scroll through your feed before she closed the app and handed Nine her phone back. 

“Thank you.” 

“No problem.” Nine grinned, eyes still trained out front. “So, what’s the plan?”

Lou scrunched her eyebrows together in confusion before turning her body slightly to address her friend. “What plan?”

Nine’s smile just got more mischievous. “The plan,” she said like Lou’s supposed to get it already. When Lou just kept giving her the confused look, she sighed. “What’s the plan to get Y/N back?” 

“Oh.” A quick look of worry and sadness passed through Lou’s face before she turned back to the city. “I don’t know, N. I feel like I don’t deserve her. Even more so now.” 

Nine frowned at that before she can speak though, Tammy kicked the back of Lou’s seat making her yelp. “What the hell, Tammy?” Lou yelled. 

“What do you mean you don’t know?” Tammy asked exasperated. 

“Exactly that. I mean, I don’t know.” Lou crossed her arms over her chest. 

“How about apologizing and telling her the truth that you never cheated on her?” Tammy mirrored Lou’s position: arms crossed and frowning deeply.

“What does it matter now? It’s been long overdue.” 

“Better late than never, L.” Nine glanced at her while waiting for the traffic light to turn green. 

“It won’t erase what you did but if you want her back, I think coming clean is the first step,” Tammy whispered.

***

Lou resolved to take her friends advice and apologize even though she thinks its overdue. It turns out apologizing wasn’t going to be the problem, it’s actually getting you alone for more than two minutes is. The moment they stepped into the gallery, it seems like everyone gravitate towards you. Besides that, you were also laser focus on everything that needs to be done for opening night that she finds it hard to approach you in fear of disturbing you.

Days passed in a blur of meetings, site inspections, and generally making sure that everything is on point for the event that Lou barely noticed that she still hasn’t had any alone time with you until it was opening night. You arrived at the same time everyone from the Heist was supposed to check in even though you’re technically not their employee anymore. You walked in wearing an elegant black dress with matching black heels.

 “Everything is going as planned outside. Security is already in their positions, and I just saw a few VIP cars parking upfront,” you said in place of a greeting while tapping away at your phone. “Deb you might need to get your pretty ass upfront and welcome the guests.”

When only silence follows, you looked up to find every single one of your friends is gaping at you.

”I’m sorry is there something in -”

“You look beautiful,” Lou whispered loud enough for everyone to hear. You looked straight at the blonde’s blue eyes and smirked at her. “I mean -”

“Thanks, Lou.” You cut her off. “You look great too.”

A soft blush tinted Lou’s cheeks. Constance cleared her throat. “Ugh. I hate to interrupt this flirt fest but the guests are coming,” she said before nodding towards the door.

True to Constance words, invited guests started pouring in prompting everyone into action to receive them.

***

The rented space for the event was significantly bigger than the gallery but it’s still packed with art enthusiasts from all walks of life. Selene Quaid’s name plastered in every printed and digital marketing collateral does bring in the people. She’s like the sun, and everyone’s Icarus who doesn’t care if they burn just to be near her. About an hour into the event and there’s still no sign of the woman, which Lou knows because she’s been at the bar surveying the crowd all night.

She just downed her first glass of champagne when you plopped down on the stool next to her and ordered yourself a drink.

“Tequila? This early?” Lou asked after you downed your first shot.

“Yeah.” You downed another shot.

Lou crinkled her eyebrows together. “What’s wrong?”

You downed your last shot before turning towards your ex-girlfriend. “Selene’s late. Again. You know how tardiness makes me anxious.”

Lou nodded because she does remember the two of your discussing the issue before that’s why she made it a point never to be late in any of your dates in the past. “I’m sure she’s on the way.”

You just hummed in acknowledgement before swivelling the rest of your stool to face the buzzing crowd. Lou can’t help but study the side profile of your face. 

“Lou, you’re staring.”

“I can’t help it.” She whispered loud enough for only you to hear. “I just can’t believe you’re here and talking to me.”

You glanced at her and smiled. “It’s been too long, hasn’t it?” You said before turning back to watch the door.

“Yes, and it may be overdue but I’m sorry for what I did.” Lou’s voice cracked as she tries to reign in her emotions.

You fully turn your attention to her then. “Lou, I’ve for-”

“No before you say that. I need you to know that truth,” she cut you off.

You nodded to prompt her to continue. “I never cheated on you,” she muttered with conviction. You searched her face for a hint of a lie but you can’t find any. “I did lie to you though.”

“Explain,” you said after flagging the waiter for another round of shots. You feel like you might need it with how serious Lou is.

Lou looked so guilty and sad when you faced her again. “I didn’t think you would ever take the job at Tate if you were with me. So I asked Therese to pretend that we were fooling around behind your back.”

You gripped the edge of the counter, as you digest that new information. Lou can see the unshed tears starting to gather in your eyes and she wanted nothing more but to reach out and pull you to her but you were gritting your teeth and she knew your habits very well.

“I’m sorry,” Lou repeated.

You downed 1 out of your 3 tequila shots. “That wasn’t your call,” you whispered angrily at her. “Leaving you was the hardest thing I had to do, not quitting the program to go back and beg you to choose me was the next.”

“I’m sorry.” Lou apologizing again is just making you angrier by the minute. You throw back your second shot.

“We could have made it work. I could have flown to you every Friday night. It’s just a 7-hour flight.” You downed your last tequila shot, ignoring the burn in your throat and almost slamming the glass down on the bar had you not remembered you two are supposed to be working.

“I’m so sorry, Y/N.” Lou tried to reach for your hand but you yanked it away from her.

“You never gave me a chance,” you spat. Lou shook her head.

“You never gave us a chance. 

***

Lou wanted to defend her decision but she was cut off when the rest of the Heist crew bounded happily to the bar.

“There you are!” Nine declared enthusiastically. You made a subtle attempt to dab the tears in your eyes before turning to your friends.

“What’s up?” You answered over-enthusiastically.

“Someone’s been looking for you,” Amita quipped.

Before you can ask who, Selene Quaid reached the bar with Rose. When she looked up and saw you, she immediately halted her conversation with the fashion designer and excused herself to come to you.

“Hey.” Selene greeted, scratching at the back of her neck. “You look fantastic.”

“You’re late,” you ignored the compliment and admonished the brunette, which surprised everyone. No one gets to tell Selene Quiad what to do. She goes places and does things in her own pace and time.

“I’m sorry.” Selene cupped your right cheek with her right hand. She looked genuinely remorseful. “I’ll make it up to you.”

You smiled softly, leaning into Selene’s touch as it temporarily soothes the ache from your previous conversation with Lou. “You better,” you said smiling.

Selene took it as a sign that she’s forgiven. Smiling broadly before stepping closer and pulling you into a soft, brief kiss that took Lou’s breath away. Just like that, Lou’s dream of getting you back was shuttered in a million tiny pieces right in front of her eyes.

It’s too late.

She’s too late.

Taglist:  @kaytoopio @marvelfansince08love @marvelb00kwolf @shycucumbersandwich @subject7creed @theprassebox​ @confessionsofawritingdork​ @gaytrashgoblin​ @cup-of-stars​

[courtorderedcake]

Majestically Too Far Beyond, CSSNS 2020

Emma Swan is a Witch who has made (And apparently makes) bad decisions. Helping a desperate Witch out of a weird situation doesn't seem like a bad decision, even against her, runes, a tarot reading and her friend's Snow druid intuition - until it is and the consequences are very real.

Killian is a Demon with a long history of persecution against him, and his denizens are not much better off. His Angelic brother is on a mission to rehab Demonic image to prevent violence on the streets of Hyperion Heights, as some sort of Holy mission deeply rooted in millenia of guilt. Witches and Warlocks use them for parts, Werewolves see them as a threat, Angels mostly still hold on to the ancient feud regardless of their treatise, Fae stay chaotic neutral, Vampires don't care for others affairs - it's a perilous world where hate crimes happen without consequence. After a disastrous meeting, he attempts to drown his frustration with a trip to the bottom of a bottle, but ends up falling in bed with a mysterious Witch in her tower home. Soon he's missing a hand, has only the vaguest idea of what happened from the mess of blood he's woken up to, and a mirror shows that some strange, different, Witch is pregnant with his child.

RATED M for Mature Themes. Written for @cssns​ 2020 Beta’d by The best team ever ( @jarienn972​  @ultraluckycatnd​  @donteattheappleshook​) and Art by @kmomof4​

Read on Ao3 HERE. 1 | 2 

Chapter 2 - House Evil Spirits to appease of,

Part of Emma was coming to terms with the new fact that she was pregnant, then just as rapidly she reverts back through the cycle of grief, sometimes not in order. The doctor had warned her this would happen when she announced that they would be keeping her for overnight observation as a safety precaution, dropping the news that her new pregnancy hormones would also make her feel even more upside down then she had ever imagined. It was one thing to be told, but feeling it was another thing entirely.

She had gone from laughing at the breakfast menu she was handed to crying over grilled cheese not being an option, to enraged at being brought bright blue jello with her 'breakfast sandwich' made of bologna and eggs. They could not have known the intense reaction the jiggling neon goo would have given her, her magic flaring and sputtering in turn as she launched it away from her. But then again, she doubted any of the staff had spent time in a No-Magic cell. Nausea bloomed as soon as rage subsided, the food on the plastic tray too similar to what had been served to her over those long years locked away. 

Now irritation was playing through multiple emotions, a new nurse violently poking her with a needle, and running some sort of IV. 

"You're giving me what -" 

"A hormone treatment, and a magic suppressant." 

"But I need my magic -" 

"Would you prefer to shrivel up and die? You'll still have enough to do daily witch activities or whatever. This helps keep the extra at bay, and your baby healthy. It needs your magic." 

"Oh. Great." She laughed, half crazed at the news and the nurse's treatment. "Just great."

"Mess with their kind, and well." She shrugged, eyeing Emma's body. "An Angel wouldn't do that to you. A Vampire couldn't, and the rest of 'em could, but you wouldn't have to suffer through all this nasty magic aftermath. You're just early enough for a termination though, thank Merlin."

"I didn't do this to myself on purpose . This was never supposed to happen, at least not like this…" 

"Sure." The nurse rolled her eyes as she drew out the word, clearly being condescending. "It's never the Witch’s fault; I hear it every time I'm fixing them for blowing themselves in half for not reading a spell right. You play with dark magic, there's a cost." 

Emma scowled, hot tears starting and streaming down her cheeks. Her anger and ferocity that was there just moments before had evaporated without warning into a deep resignation. 

"Can my brother come to see me yet?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.

"After they question you, sure. He can come pick you up - You're done here." The nurse pulled off the empty bag from the IV stand, throwing it in the trash. 

The doctor entered, waving a hello. Emma did not notice her, too busy staring at her bump. She joined the nurse as a machine beeped, helping to take out her IV and the pads on her belly. When that was done, Emma sat up, wobbling from her strange new center of gravity. 

The doctor smiled at her kindly. "We'll have your test results in a few days to a week's time. You'll feel strange and sluggish the first few weeks as your body catches up to the rapid growth, your hormones, the magic, so on and so forth. From there, you may actually start to grow as normal until you'll need the next dose of suppression. We'll schedule that out for 4 months from now, checking in monthly, but if you grow suddenly, shrink suddenly, your extremities swell, or you begin to exhibit flu like symptoms, come in immediately. If anything seems off, just give us a call. We have a twenty-four seven nurse line should you have any other questions. Good luck!"

The doctor left without much more than a precursory glance back. 

Snapping her gloves, the nurse glared over her glasses at Emma. "Leave when you are ready. We got you a different outfit; it's amongst your personals there."

The nurse left in a hurry, leaving Emma to dress herself in a large pair of green hospital scrubs, her new figure completely foreign as she rubbed her hands across the smooth skin. Her once flat stomach was distended, a slight curve that pushed out stretched skin. Her clothes in the plastic bag they had given her were dirty and looked damp. The clothing she was given would have been a small comfort if the stiff fabric didn't feel so much like her old prison uniform. 

"Fuck," Emma choked out, gripping the chair for support. She felt dizzy, absolutely nauseated at the idea of a baby. Her baby. She was pregnant. Something in her felt warmth at the idea, a strange, creeping feeling of rightness mixed with calm. The rest of her wanted to claw at her skin, urging her to wake up from this horrible dream. 

Every time she closed her eyes, she fervently wished this wrongness was a hallucination. But it wasn't; she was still swaying on her feet every time she opened her eyes again. This wasn't some sort of nightmare, there was a baby, some creature's inhuman child inside her. "Fuck. Fuck!" 

Tears began to prick behind her eyes, her face heating as she sat down on the hospital bed with her head cradled in her hands. 

( You can't cry over this. This happened because of your shady dealings. 

  You got a firstborn child alright. Yours. )

Swallowing hard, Emma tried to banish the thoughts bombarding her. 

( A baby. A baby you can love and hold, who you will never abandon. Someone you can raise the way you weren't, a second chance. Put your armor back on - for you and your child. )  

Emma bit her lip hard, swiping angrily at her tears. Bottling up the emotions, she took a breath, grabbed her purse, and walked down the hallway. To her great surprise, Elsa was waiting. 

"Emma, oh my stars. This is - I have no words. I'm so sorry," Elsa whispered. Emma gave a half hearted shrug, her voice still trembling slightly.

"Yeah. Well. Can I go home yet? That's why you're here right?" Emma hated the anxious, pleading edge of her tone.

"No, not yet. You have to be interviewed by the inspector detective here and then you are free to go." Elsa approached and hugged Emma softly. "I got you a nice one though, he's one of my favorites. Jones. He's an Angel - literally and figuratively. He's saved me on so many cases, I can't help but sing his praise." 

"Oh Elsa. Thank you." Emma hugged her friend tightly, both of them trembling. "I don't know what I would do without you."

Elsa scoffed. "I don't know what anyone would do. Joking aside, we are all going to be here for you, no matter what happens. It's not going to be like last time." Elsa pushed back a strand of Emma's hair, looking straight into her eyes. "You won't go through this alone. We're going to fight for you, and figure this out. Luckily, our major project is postponed anyway. Until they find the Demon Prince, the council is on a hiatus." 

"I just want to go home. I don't know if I can handle everyone right now." Emma mumbled. "It's bad enough David probably knows, which means Snow and everyone else -" 

"Please don't push us away, Emma. We know it's a lot, but going into the unknown like this," Elsa took one of Emma's hands, squeezing it lightly. "Having a family, having faith and love - it's the only way to get through."

"Miss Frost," a low voice called from a room nearby. Elsa led Emma to a small office, smiling at the large Angel who stood on one side of a desk. He returned her smile, until Emma met his eyes. His frown was slow, not suiting his features, even when his blue eyes sharply laser focused on Emma's rotund body. She could see his muscles tense, his golden tinged wings giving the smallest of flutters. "Miss Swan."

"I'll leave you both to it, then." Elsa smiled, inspector Jones weakly returning it as she closed the door to them. 

Emma sat in the only chair on her side of the desk, landing with an audible noise in surprise. Her body was heavier now. Of course sitting felt wrong. Jones grunted before sitting in his chair, his presence formidable even with his wings unopened. He began jotting down notes, not looking up at her for a long, stretched pause of silence. Emma fidgeted uncomfortably, one foot bouncing on the floor. 

"Stop that at once," Liam growled, his eyes narrowed.

Emma stopped, hissing out a nervous laugh. "Sorry, I just -" 

"How did this happen?" Liam interrupted, gesturing at her with clear disgust. "Dr. Mullins indicates it was against your will? You haven't been sexually active to induce conception? Explain."

"Well, I um -" 

"And I must remind you Miss Swan," Liam grimaced, marking something on his paper. "Lying to me is a crime itself. Perjury."

"Yes, I uh - I know." Emma nodded with a gulp. She took a breath, centering herself, and began to tell him the entire story of what had taken place with Gothel. He listened in absolute silence, writing the entire time as his frown only deepened. When she had finished, he continued writing in the oppressive silence, until finally flicking his eyes up to glare at her again. 

"Is that all, Miss Swan?" 

"Yes, then I, um, got the cramps -" 

"Spare me the sordid details of the consequences your illegal activity most likely caused," Liam drawled, sarcastically. He leveled his angry, burning gaze at her, and she felt like an animal being cornered by much larger prey. "Now, I have some questions for you. Answer to the best of your ability, but remember -" 

"Do not lie, yeah I remember," Emma said softly. 

"Who says you Witches can't be taught," Liam sneered, his voice mocking. Emma felt irritation bubble up in her gut, her surprise that Elsa liked this asshole rising. If he was a good inspector, Emma never wanted to meet a bad one. "Now. What exactly did this Gothel ask of you in exchange for her firstborn?" 

"Youthful beauty and a long life, I think," Emma stated, thinking hard. "She wanted to be young forever. I told her that it wouldn't be instant or eternal, that she would have to wait. Now I know why it didn't bother her."

"Did she mention any other rituals, Miss Swan?" Liam asked. 

"No, but she did say that she was in a time crunch." Emma shrugged slightly. "I don't know if that means anything."

Liam looked at her with more vehemence, still writing furiously. "Did you feel any effects at that time?" 

"No, I was surprised I didn't with the amount of magic that detonated. I checked myself twice to make sure, once with a warding bind even." The strangeness of the situation and her clear confusion due to it made her voice sound foreign to Emma's own ears. Did he know how much she didn't want this? "Nothing. Then boom, today I - today this. She showed her true colors at the end, did an evil laugh and everything." 

Liam hummed disapprovingly, looking over his notes. Flicking his eyes back to hers, he glared with contempt. "Let me make sure I have this all correct. So, you and this other Witch do a forbidden and illegal ritual -" 

"I had no idea it was going to be this illegal, I swear!" Emma began to feel panic, her heart racing. "I thought I was helping -" 

"Sure, sure, even though you already have a record -"

"That was - That was different, I was set up and I -" 

"It seems like you are awfully good at being set up, Miss Swan. So what did you get out of this?" The inspector looked at her in disgust, folding his arms against his chest. "A Demon child to experiment on? Heightened powers?" 

"No! No, I had no idea she would - I didn't know - I thought later on that she'd give me her unwanted child. I didn't want another kid to be unwanted. I didn't know the parentage - "

The inspector interrupted with a loud scoff, leaning forward and leering at her. "Likely bloody story." 

"Detective Inspector Jones, I swear to you, I swear it - I had no idea what… I had no idea this would happen. I never wanted this to happen. I never wanted to get pregnant, I still don't know what to do."

"If it is a Demonic child, even only a half-breed, the best thing to do is give them up." Something painful twisted in her gut, a deep feeling of dread and wrongness. 

"I can't, I want to think about it and wait to look at options -"

"You can . You should . It will get easier the longer you are separated from the leeching thing." Liam's sneer turned into a look of pure disgust. "Don't wait, and get it out of you before it completely ensnares you in its unholy thrall."

"It's a child, sir, and my choice. I'm not making any promises -" 

"No Demon has ever been innocent, not even a baby. They are inherently selfish, cruel, and angry. Your mixed breed baby will be the same." Liam looked down at his feet, his fingers interlaced as he rested his elbows on his knees. His voice had lost the cruel edge, and Emma felt her superpower activate. He didn't believe what he was saying, and as she watched him, she noticed how tired he looked. 

"Inspector, are... Are you alright?" 

"Miss Swan," Liam chuckled darkly, pinching the bridge of his nose before glancing up to look at her. "If I was in your position, I would worry about myself, especially if jail time was on the table." 

Emma felt as if he'd slapped her, air rushing from her lungs as her heart beat rapidly. 

"Jail time?" She asked in disbelief, "What about Gothel? Why are you demonizing me -"

"That is government business, Miss Swan." Liam stood stiffly, rummaging in his pocket. He fished out a card, carefully sliding it on the table towards her. "If you remember anything, contact us. Otherwise, we will be in touch. I'll have the nurse give you the proper paperwork and instructional pamphlets."

He turned, pushed the curtain aside, and Emma heard a soft whoosh of air indicating his exit. Looking down at her body under the scrubs, she cursed Eloise with every fiber of her being. 

  ﾟ・.  ｡・. *✫*ﾟ･ﾟ｡.★.*｡･ﾟ*⛧*.・｡*ﾟ.★.・.・✫*.・。.・゜

ﾟ・.  ｡・. *✫*ﾟ･ﾟ｡.★.*｡･ﾟ*⛧*.・｡*ﾟ.★.・.・✫*.・。.・゜

  The first few nights were a string of blurry, anger, and grief strewn rampages. Elsa has taken her home, Emma unwilling to let David even see her until she had some space to take care of herself. She had sent a text, and after a lot of back and forth arguing surrounding his lengthy replies, David had conceded. 

  (She just couldn't right now. 

Not right now. Not yet.) 

A Celestial, or something similar. Most likely Demon, he had said. 

Gothel had not only gotten her pregnant, but with some Demon child that could be claimed by its monstrous father for who knew what awful reason. Emma shuddered at the thought, hands protectively resting on her small swell of stomach. Pulling them away as they trembled, she cursed her body and the invader that was making her feel so attached to it. Demons didn't exactly get along with any of the other demographics, but Witches and Demons had the most volatile relations amongst any of them. Her own child might grow to hate her, all because of how much Witches persecuted Demon kind. 

She could still… No. She would not terminate the baby this far along. Every part of her vibrated with the wrongness of the very idea, sending her retching into the kitchen sink. She gripped both sides of the basin, crying hot, angry tears as she came to terms with the parasite - the baby, the small baby, the life - occupying her body. As much as she tried to hate it, the only hate she could muster fell on herself and Eloise. 

Part of her felt crazed, crying in her bathtub, nauseated and afraid of every implication and outcome. Laying her head back on the tile, she wondered about what she was going to do. Rubbing her new bump slowly, Emma traced the curve. Sixteen months. A doubly long second trimester, and extended third, all while it changed with her body. Mixed children generally presented like their non-Demonic parent, and the pregnancy bond would be fierce regardless of species. Although it was doubtful at this point it was even in effect despite her behavior and thoughts, Emma smiled at the thought that she already felt attached to her baby. Her own family. 

Her brother was going to go insane, and her sister-in-law… Snow was always supportive and full of a positive outlook. Emma had teased her that it was an Elf thing, but her pointed ears would twitch as she blushed, and she'd mumble something about her plants helping. Smoking her pungent blends of cannabis could make anyone positive, and Emma was suddenly envious. 

Regina and the coven would be on the defensive, taking over everything in Emma's life without quarter. That would be another comfort, their careful planning and patience having gotten her this far through her difficult life. 

In the end, the coven, Ruby, and Snow were over shortly after her emergency summons, flying through her doorway. Ruby was a Werewolf Emma had befriended through Snow. While Regina disliked her, Emma didn't think she was any different than most humans other than her keen sense of smell and bluntness. It was these traits that immediately made it clear what was wrong. It would seem not everyone in their circles knew yet. That would take a few more days. 

“Emma,” Ruby whispered, horrified, her nose wrinkling as tears filled her eyes. “What did… Who did this to you?”

"They think it is a Demon, but it's almost definitely Celestial, or something with a dynamic gestational period due to magic." Just behind Ruby, the rest of the coven began appearing, all staring on her porch as Emma ushered them in. "Until I find out the father, I don't know, although most likely it's Demonic."

Regina's head snapped up. “A Demon? Emma, what do you mean dynamic -”

The women went quiet when Emma lifted her shirt to show them her bump, explaining everything. 

Emma laid her head in Snow’s lap after, feeling numb. Snow stroked her hair gently, looking at the others. Their coven was small, mostly women, but David and two other men were honorary members by means of dating or marriage. Anna picked at her braid, eyes wide, while Belle's mouth was still open from her earlier gasp. Mulan, Regina, and Merida were all business. 

“I'll hunt the Witch and her Demon pet down myself, and bring him back here. We can take turns peeling away his skin -” 

“Mulan,” Merida hissed, her curls bouncing when she nodded her head at Emma, who's eyes were welling with tears once again. 

“I thought… I thought I was doing something good ,” Emma burst into tears, sobbing into Snow, and Belle excused herself to fetch the whistling kettle from the stove. Pouring everyone tea, they tried to figure out what to do. 

“Well, you certainly can't go hunting skips,” Regina scoffed. “And this house, I mean, I get that you fixed it up but it's a dump -”

“Oh! David would be happy to have you back on the farm with us!” Snow lit up, but the thought of being around their saccharine relationship and the smell of incense, patchouli, and skunky smelling herb had her running for the toilet. The others talked and sipped tea, planning out things as Emma curled up on her bath mat. Maybe it was better to terminate, if the leap in growth hadn't made it too late. Would it be better to give it up? Her mind filled with swirling ideas, and Emma let herself get lost in her sadness. 

Ruby snuck in a moment later, sitting next to Emma quietly. 

“So,” she whispered quietly, and Emma cracked open an eye to look at her friend's face. 

“So,” Emma rasped back, her throat raw. 

“Apparently, you're going to go live with Regina in the Guest ‘Wing’, yes, not room, ‘Wing’, and work at one of Belle’s bookstores. I tried to chime in with what your input might sound like. They looked at me as if I'd eaten Anna's familiar. Not like Elsa would let me snack on knock-off Rudolph anyway. Miss Ice Queen has her fancy new council to lord over, so who knows. We could have some reindeer snacks.”

Emma snorted, a smile breaking across her face. 

“Look,” Ruby started, running a hand through her hair to push back her straight brunette style. ”I know how important it was for you to be independent, Emma. I know you really cared about Neal, too. I just… There's something… There's something really off with this situation, and it's not just my nose saying that you smell weird, like dark magic weird, or my gut saying a Witch that makes contracts with Demons for a baby, knocks you up, then just up and vanishes is bad news. I want you to be safe. I called Graham on your telephone, and there's an opening at his precinct I think you might like. It’s mostly paperwork -”

“Rubes!” Emma laughed despite herself. “That's awesome, thank you-”

“Just listen. I want to meet this… Demon. I still have this feeling like something is really off, and you're neck deep in danger. Besides, you know, the Demon part of the situation. Are you sure that you can't remember, er… Well. You know?”

“No, it was literally one minute I was fine, then the next the worst period cramps of my life while I inflated. I was sort of Instant Knocked Up, just add magic or whatever.” Emma rubbed her temples, and Ruby sighed. 

“Well, if it makes you feel better, Granny says that's most likely how I was conceived too.” Ruby flashed her a smile, and Emma laughed, hugging her friend tightly. 

“I don't know what I would do without you, Rubes.” 

“Look, I'm pretty sure Graham isn't into a menage et trois with a preggo, but I'll broach the subject.” 

“You're ridiculous,” Emma laughed. 

“You wouldn't have it any other way.”

  ﾟ・.  ｡・. *✫*ﾟ･ﾟ｡.★.*｡･ﾟ*⛧*.・｡*ﾟ.★.・.・✫*.・。.・゜

Months passed slowly as Emma waited for the other shoe to drop. Work at the station was easy, filing reports and making coffee not troublesome at all. Liam apparently worked somewhere in the massive complex, but Emma made no moves to seek him out or head to the detective offices. 

Her house was almost completely redone and brand new; the floors, walls, ceilings, and everything in between redone with the utmost care. 

  ("I refuse to let you live like this and represent our coven," Regina ran a finger along the mantelpiece, grimacing when it came up dirty. "Are you sure that you have to live here?" 

"What Regina means," Elsa shot her a glare as Regina shrugged, rubbing her fingers together, "Is that any of us would love to have you. Don't feel obligated to stay -" 

"But don't feel like you have to leave either. David and I would love to help you fix up the place, maybe have you make a few rooms?" Snow encouraged. David nodded, his arms crossed across his chest. 

Elsa clapped her hands excitedly. "Oh yes, you could make an apothecary room like the one you talked about, and a potion brewing room, a nice place to grow plants, a library -" 

"And we'd all pitch in, if you wanted to make a nursery?" Mary Margaret mumbled, almost shyly. "I wanted to throw a baby shower for you since we found out, but I didn't want to overwhelm you like I feel like I always do -" 

"Too late," Emma gritted under her breath, her friends already planning the event for her.)

  Emma actually had eased into the idea; at first it seemed absurd that they were planning for this when the whole situation was so strange. The father was still unaccounted for, even as the test results made it clear that the baby was of Demonic parentage. Sometimes Emma thought she could feel something, a little tug, the eerie feeling of being watched, or an emotion that wasn't hers flitting through her mind, but she dismissed them easily. More often, she was fascinated by the lack of information on the bond her and this child were supposed to have. 

Pouring over books, it was as if someone had removed or rewritten any passages about Demonic parenting, specifically with a non Demon parent. She had found minor information on the bond in a few books. It was supposed to be fierce, the instinct making women hysterical and unreasonable. It only got more intense when the father was around, cases of actions deemed feral surrounding the mixed couples she had managed to find. All of them had ended in tragedy, and Emma eventually found herself unable to stomach reading about them. 

Or anything really, food was enemy number one on baby's list, unless it was deep fried, covered in sugar, or drenched in sweetness. Without shame, Emma had managed to eat and keep down an entire jar of marmalade with crackers. 

When Snow, Elsa, and Ruby's grandmother had brought up the food options they would make if Emma would let them throw her a shower, she had caved. 

  ( "I will make you a bear claw cake, mini grilled cheese, and onion rings, amongst other things," Granny grinned. "And I will crochet you the most darling blanket for your little girl."

Emma tried not to drool, or give in. "That's nice, but I don't think I want that many people here, you know? That detective is watching my every move, I feel like a whale, I never know which food will agree with me -" 

"And I will make sure I have a never-ending hot chocolate drip for you." Granny's eyes twinkled, full of mischief. "With toppings."

"Including cinnamon?" Emma asked, unable to disguise the longing in her voice. Granny nodded firmly. "How did you know? Wait - did you say a girl -" 

"I just know," she shrugged. "Call it a wolf's intuition." ) 

It was supposed to be small, just a few people and family, but somehow it had turned into a full on social event. Emma was grateful that she had added a few rooms in the days before, the space sorely needed regardless of how drained she felt. Even still, she loved the house. It actually felt like hers, the exposed beams and vintage fixtures mixed with tapestries, framed art, and treasured photos. Her herbs dried above a large sink, food was spread along a long bar and buffet sideboard, and people milled around her living room that she had adjoined to two more exact copies through her doors. 

No need to be original there.

( Her private door stayed tucked away in the upstairs hallway, and it was unable to be unlocked by anyone but her. 

That was more important than a few extra rooms she could collapse after these people were gone. ) 

Emma was a good sport for the first couple of hours, playing games, being paraded around to people who apparently were important in the city, and sipping hot cocoa. Elsa, Regina, Mulan, and Snow were putting emphasis on her innocence, and although it was a spectacle, Emma hoped it would work. 

Two very terrible things ruined her mood. 

At some point, Elsa fell away from Emma's side, returning as cake was being cut. Her face was pinched, irritability written across it as she glared down at the slice she's given. 

"You okay?" Emma whispered, and Elsa blinked, looking up in surprise. 

"Oh, yeah. I just - I thought my date might show up, but he's working." Elsa gritted out the last word, anger seeping into it. "He's on this case, and it's important to him because it's family related, but I want him to understand that I have family too, and I could help if he just -" Throwing up her hands, Elsa groaned in annoyance. 

"I'm so sorry. I don't know anything about -" 

"Emma," David pulled her up by her arm, looking around as if checking for something. "Kitchen. Now."

There's no time to protest, his grip strong and firm, dragging her into the kitchen. 

"David, what the fu -" 

"That detective was here, asking about you," Regina hissed, pointing out towards where guests milled. "We made sure he left, but he was asking questions."

"Questions?" Emma repeated, fear gripping her. Elsa walked in, listening to the conversation beside her. 

"Like, if you had a history of criminality, if you knew and associated with undesirable magic users, if you knew who the father was or were protecting who did this to you," David said. The stillness around them seemed to tense just as they were. 

"If he questions you, you make sure to tell him that you know nothing," Elsa whispered, trying to hold her hand. "Make sure you proclaim your innocence, and he'll believe you, he has to -" 

"You think I haven't tried?" Emma ripped her hand away, looking at all of her friends with annoyance. "I agreed to this not knowing it was going to serve as some bullshit trial ball, where I'd be judged like this. I've searched everywhere for that woman, I have nothing to hide. She's disappeared, and not like a new identity in Guam disappeared, no. Like, off every plane of existence without a trace. It wouldn't matter if I did find her, because this is my kid. The bonds of the spell make her of my blood more and more every day. I can't just go back to the way things were - "

"What about the father?" Regina asked. 

"I don't know. I know nothing about him or why he hasn't come. As far as I know, he might not. I don't know how he couldn't feel these binds. I know I feel something, but it could be because I'm practically mooing, I'm so huge, and I have these crazy urges. The hormones alone here are making me feel insane, even before you started in on me. Even before that asshole showed up because we have the entire damn city here!"

"I told you this was a bad idea, Regina," Snow mumbled. Regina glared in return. 

"We - I just want you to know that no one will judge you for not wanting this, or for giving up the baby -" David said weakly. 

"Shut up David," Emma growled out. Her hands rested against her stomach and she felt like she was going to fall over. "Right now, shut up and do not go down that road." 

"Emma, it's making you feel attached," Regina said gently. "And if I'm agreeing with him, you know I - "

"I mean it, not another word. I'm keeping my baby, that's it. End all, be all. Say another word and I will curse your tomatoes," She pointed at David, then rounded on Regina. "And hex your wardrobe with bleach stains that don't come out. Try me."

"Fine!" Regina threw up her hands while David grunted. 

The kitchen went silent, the tension palpable. 

"We got you a really nice layette," Snow offered, trying to clear the awkwardness while smiling. "Come open gifts, and look at all this cuteness. "

Emma begrudgingly moved forward, her eyes widening at the mountain of gifts in front of her. 

"Don't worry," Anna whispered as she pulled Emma down to sit. "I'm writing your thank you cards for you."

The crowd thinned after gifts, the night trickling on as the house emptied. If Emma had felt drained before, now she felt completely devoid of energy. The small crowd that's left hadn't bothered her, so when Snow and Regina asked her to do another walk about with them, it seemed safe enough. 

She saw him out of the corner of her eye, his head nodding, laughing at something in his self absorbed sly little chuckle that makes her want to break his nose. She must have tensed because Snow was beside her and sucking in breath harshly through her teeth, the coven turning as if they could all feel the disturbance. 

( Maybe they can, maybe the unbridled audacity of this man being here with another woman as he laughs with a martini glass in his hand is enough to share one collective experience of hatred. His eyes meet hers and he gives her a smirk that screams pity and humor at her expense as he lifts his glass toward her, mouthing congrats ) 

A figure cut in front of her, and her rage that feels like a sickening punch in the gut is coupled by this smack in the face - Neal's father grinned at her, his cane on the ground while both hands rest on its handle.

"My my my, Miss Swan," Gold smirked the same smirk that she wants to rip off his face. "When we heard, we were so surprised to not receive an invitation to this… quaint event of yours. Truly poor manners when our covens are no longer supposed to be at odds."

Regina and Elsa were there in front of her in a flash, Snow pulling her away, words being exchanged in hissed tones. Emma could barely hear over her heartbeat, over the sound of her stomach screaming at her to vomit. 

"You can protect her all you want, but we know what she did. We know what it will be," Gold's voice slithered over her skin even in the bathroom. "You can't redeem her, and she will be the reason for all of your downfall. Enjoy your council while it lasts."

David shooed everyone out when Emma hastily retreated, the entirety of her patchwork family pushing inside to comfort her. 

  ﾟ・.  ｡・. *✫*ﾟ･ﾟ｡.★.*｡･ﾟ*⛧*.・｡*ﾟ.★.・.・✫*.・。.・゜

After the disaster of her shower, Emma began to feel the strange feeling of being watched even more. It became especially noticeable at night when she rocked in the nursery, sorting out piles of gifts. It felt like a presence sat beside her or hovered over her shoulder, and it began to follow her into her dreams. 

They didn’t last after she woke, glimpses of a mirror, of the sound of pounding, a muffled voice that she can't make out. 

The tip of the weird iceberg happened when Emma had gotten out of the shower, the steam in the room rising to fog the mirror. Dressing in pj's and heading back in to blow dry her hair, she had been dancing along to some new pop song by the Wolves of London, when her eyes caught the words.

On the fog of the mirror, her name had appeared backwards, joined shortly by the word 'Help' in a curling script that she blinked at in confusion before they disappeared. 

( A baby, a Witch, and a Ghost. Just what she needs in the never ending chaos that has become her life ) 

Luckily, the Coven can save her ass again. 

Regina glared at Emma, her judging silence lay heavily over the room. She crossed her arms, eyebrows pinching into further scorn, before asking again. 

"You want me to do what?" 

"Look, I know it's not your favorite thing to do, but you can and I don't have the gift or a guide like you do -" 

"That doesn't make it any easier!" Regina threw up her hands, then gestured to her pantsuit clad form. "It's my body, and my mother is just -" 

"I am begging you, Reg. Begging. You." Emma moaned, irritated. "The father is a complete mystery, there's a ghost in my house that I think has to do with him, and I'm scared it could be someone like…" Trailing off, she chewed her lip. 

Liam's increasing push for her to choose adoption had thrown her off her game these last few weeks, his phone calls almost non stop. In a way, he was right. She wasn't the only parent, and she certainly wasn't ready to be a mom. She was no one, absolutely nothing. It wasn't as if she could raise a baby. 

(Even if she wanted to, and the idea of her baby, her family enveloped in the family she chose and created, it made her feel nothing but happiness) 

Regina rolled her eyes with a huff. "Fine. Fine!" she snapped, slamming her hands on the table. "I do this for you, and you owe me. I expect you to be at my whim for this."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"And I'm not doing it for long." She shuddered. "Every time I check out and she checks in, I feel so just -" She shuddered again, making a gagging noise. 

(Regina had done it before for David and her, to say goodbye to Ruth. It had hurt, hurt so badly, but not as much as Cora cutting the reunion short to tell her daughter to do more cardio.)

"I promise, we find his grandma or cousin or somebody, maybe whoever wrote that on my mirror, get the lead, and we're done." Emma nodded. 

With another sigh, Regina laid her hands over the table, palms up, and Emma laid her own over them. A lavender spark shot from their joined hands to the air above them, Regina's head falling back while purple smoke began to pour around the table, permeating the air. Regina shook slightly, before violently snapping her head forward and blinking. 

"Emma Swan, to what do I owe the pleasure of being ripped from my study?" A higher, nasal, woman's voice spoke out from Regina's mouth. "My daughter feels chubbier, and her skin is just -" Regina touched her face, making clucks with her tongue. "Oh, she is a mess! Did she break it off with that awful Warlock? Ugh, is she stress eating? I try not to pry, but I know she ate at least one slice of chocolate cake when she was out this last week -" 

"Cora," Emma gritted out, closing her eyes in frustration. "Cora, Regina is fine. If she wants to discuss her love life with you, she'll call you up on the Ouija. I need your help to find someone, and I don't know the someone."

"Well, aren't you in a pickle."

"Please Cora, it's not just for me!" 

"Oh, you're not interested in Regina are you? Because you are much too low a class for her breeding -" 

"Oh Merlin, no, no!" 

"What is it then?" Cora sighed in a bored drawl. "I've told you I can't find your family if they don't want anything to do with you, I -" 

"No." Emma let her chest fall, speaking quietly. "No it's not that. I remember from last time and I have a family now." Emma took a deep breath, pushing back against the hurt in her chest. "I need to know… I need to know who the father is, and I'm having trouble. I need you to see if you can reach a relative, or friend, or someone who knows why his offspring is inside me, as well as what it is. I got a visit from a ghost, so here we are."

"Oooooh!" Cora squealed. "An enceinte pregnancy Miss Swan? An illegitimate baby? A haunting? How very risqué and daring on your salary!"

"Cora!"

"Fine, I'll check. I'll want the details of this though, so don't spare any of the juicy bits." Cora winked with Regina's face, before the woman's body went slack. After a minute, her head lifted back up, blinking slightly. "Well, Emma, what a doozy this is. This woman will not stop talking, and it's absolutely ridiculous how impossible she's being, even if she is ancient looking. Yes, I said ancient looking - well don't get mad at me, I tell it how it is - oh, I don't care who your son is, he can't be that grand if he's knocked up this wreck. Sorry Emma dear, I love you, but I mean," Cora shrugged, unabashedly. 

"Cora, ask her what her name is!" Emma hissed. 

"What's your name then? Oh, that's interesting. Not as good as Cora, or Regina -" 

"Cora!" 

"It's Milah. And she's not his mum, she's - oh he's an ex lover of yours? Juicy juicy! Sounds like Emma dear might be getting leftovers then? Oh don't be like that -" 

"I need a name Cora, this is so -" 

"I'm trying Emma dear, the woman won't shut up about her sweetheart. No - Really? The scandal, but - well that is so weird! Milah says that he's been hidden somewhere and no one is haunting you, but… Ugh! She's speaking so rapidly - yes, I get it, but if he wants the kid he would have come to get it, or - I am listening to you, you're not listening to me! A mirror? You should look at one, why do I have to tell her about a mirror? I mean Emma's at most average, and look at her figure now. A child will do that to you." Cora sighed, and Emma stiffened. Cora seemed to nod for a moment, before Regina's face soured further. 

"Don't get smart with me, you may be an old soul but you died far younger than I did!" Cora growled, her eyes slitting at some unseen target. She turned with her head cocked, looking at Emma with pity. "I'm sorry Emma, sweet little duckling, but this woman is a nightmare. She keeps screaming at me about how this Killian fellow is the father, but it's impossible for her to see him for whatever reason. Something about a mirror? She's also absolutely ancient, I haven't seen clothing like that outside of - Pre-Babylon? Is that the robe designer or…? Don't look at me like that miss bed sheet toga, I - Emma, this woman, I swear! It's just incessant chattering, really - "

"His name is Killian? Cora, wait, don't you -" 

"I understand that you were crazy in love with him, trust me, you seem crazy Milah dear. Yes, Killian is his name. A Demon of lust for vengeance. Wow, Emma, what a winner!" Cora snickered, and Emma resisted the urge to shriek. "Well, I don't care if the beast is misunderstood, he's a Demon. How touching, now please - oh come now, Gothel in the tower with the mirror? Red spire, Troll falls? What is this, Clue? Do I look like a detective?" Regina's eyes rolled, Emma desperately trying to remember the snippets that might make sense. Gothel, tower, mirror, red spire, troll falls. Killian. 

Cora grew louder, her voice rising in pitch. 

"Oh, how dare you! I'll have you know your cheap robes aren't exactly chic either; you need a wardrobe update, badly! You look like a ten cent frat party attendee!" Cora spat, and Regina's face pinched tight. "Excuse me? More important things, WELL , I never - Oh you rude little tart, I've had enough!" 

"Please Cora, no, I -" Emma attempted, but Cora flipped Regina's hair back, sniffing with haughty indignation. 

"It'll be alright Emma, duckling. It seems that your little orphan persona is perfect to parent this little babe! Shut up! No, I'm done with you, you crazy broad. Go back to Bed, Bath, and Beyond and buy some new linens!" Cora hissed, her mouth curled in an ugly snarl. "Anyways, Emma, just accept that you can't ruin a child to be like you if you're giving them a home, even if their father is some failed Demon. Or something inspirational, I don't know." She shrugged, Regina's shoulders going up in a blasé dismissal. Her eyes snapped to look behind Emma, her face contorted in rage. 

"Cora. I am begging you - " Emma tried again, but Cora's focus was elsewhere, on someone unheard and unseen. 

"Shut it, shut up thread count Cleopatra!" Turning back to Emma, she smiled serenely. "Tell Regina to summon me later, I need to know how she is. And tell her no more sweets, especially if she ever wants to be a wife. Ta!"

Regina fell forwards, her body shuddering as the lights flickered, purple smoke dissipating into the air. She moaned lowly, cracking her shoulders and neck as she rolled backwards. 

"Dammit!" Emma exclaimed, sitting up and violently stalking to the fridge. "Dammit, dammit, dammit!" 

"Ugh, I can taste her perfume. Bring me a beer please," Regina groaned. Emma pulled a beer and a soda out of the fridge, giving the beer to Regina. "Emma, don't you ever say that I don't love you after that." Regina shuddered again, flicking her hand to open the beer and drinking down half of it in one go.

"I know you do. You just have… You're just abrasive with it. Like a big cat, or an alligator."

(Or a wood chipper wearing lipstick) 

"Shut up, and tell me how it went. Was it worth it? Mother never is, but -" 

"She, uh, well she got me some information to go on. So, that's something." Emma averted her gaze, licking her lips. 

"She talked about my weight, didn't she," Regina sighed. When Emma said nothing Regina drank the rest of the beer and walked to the kitchen, depositing it in the trash. Pulling out a wine glass, she reached under her cabinet and produced a bottle of wine. Emma raised an eyebrow. "Don't even start on me."

"I wasn't going to," Emma whispered. 

Laying her palms flat on the countertop and bowing her head, Regina looked up after a moment's pause. 

"So, what now?" She asked. 

Emma chewed on her lip, thinking hard. "I have his name, or at least I think I do. I think all that's left is to, well, summon him."

(Summon him, and say what? 'Hey, Mr. Demon, I'm having your kid and thought you might like to know', as if it would care, or want anything to do with her...) 

Regina's eyebrows shot up. "Not alone, surely -" 

"No. I would ask Snow, David, and maybe Mulan and Belle. I know Belle would be delighted, and she has the spellbooks."

"That actually sounds like a relatively good plan." Regina nodded, then took a sip of her wine. 

"Don't sound so shocked, Regina." Emma grumbled. 

"Miss Swan," Regina smirked, swirling the wine in her glass before taking another sip. "If you ever cease to stop shocking me with your antics, I'll assume I have gone to meet my mother and maker."

[lucifer-sucks-club]

Sorry, just asked for smut on my previous request, so you can leave that out. Just super fluffy movie night with the Twins?

Thank you for the request!! It ended up a lot longer than I anticipated and took longer too. So sorry for the wait! I hope it ended up fluffy enough, since I felt like it was leaning more into the hurt/comfort category rather than pure fluff. Hopefully you still like it.

You looked up at the small knock at your door and noticed Beel and Belphie poking their heads into your room.

“Hey guys,” you offered them a small wave, inviting them inside. “Did you need something?”

“We’re about to watch a movie.” Beel held up a bag of popcorn, which was still steaming from the microwave and filled the room with a buttery aroma. 

“Did you want to join us?” Belphie had a hopeful look on his face as he asked, though you knew he’d deny it if you pointed it out. He’d likely insist that Beel was the one who suggested that they invite you. Even if they were the case, you could tell they were equally eager for your response.

You smiled at them and closed your textbooks, deciding that you’ve done enough studying for the night. You’d finished all your homework and deserved a break.

“I’d love to!” You jumped up from your desk, stretching out your arms, your body stiff and thankful about no longer being hunched over textbooks. Though, you doubted sitting on the couch for the next two hours would do anything to help your poor spine. Oh well, you were willing to suffer, good postures were overrated anyways. 

You darted after the brothers, following them into the hall. They lead you to the living room where they had one of Levi’s spare widescreen tv’s set up — he’s sent enough controllers through screens to know to save a few backups. The coffee table was littered with snacks, though, glancing at Beel, you doubted the stockpile would last through the previews. 

You sat on the couch, Beel and Belphie falling into place on either side of you. 

“So, what are we watching?” You asked as Beel grabbed the remote and began setting up the movie.

“The Devildom Killer 2: The Creature Who Stalks the Night.” Belphie revealed, a wicked grin on his face.

You felt yourself pale. Despite being in a house of demons, you and horror did not mix well. 

Beel finished selecting the movie and got up to grab a few extra snacks, flicking off the light on his way back. You let out a small squeak, barely able to restrain yourself from reaching out and grabbing Belphie's arm.

“You okay?” Beel questioned, tilting his head as he rejoined you on the couch. 

You squirmed under his gaze, unwilling to admit to being afraid of a movie and instead searching your brain for any plausible excuse.

“Oh, uh, actually… You know what, I- uh, I actually just remembered that I completely forgot about one of my assignments and it’s, um, it’s due tomorrow so uh…” You looked down at your hands, trying to keep the embarrassed blush off your face. “I-I should probably go… Do that assignment…”

Belphie let out a small whine of protest from where he was already snuggled up at your side. You tried to move but he grabbed your arm, pouting at you. You knew he’d release you if you actually pulled away, but you didn’t make an attempt to get up again.

“Oh, are you sure?” Beel asked, looking away disappointed. “It’s the top thriller of the year. We were really looking forward to watching it with you…”

“Oh…” You felt your breath catch in your throat. They really wanted to watch this with you…

“Yeah, it’s supposed to be way better than the first movie.” Belphie told you and Beel nodded.

“Apparently Levi and Mammon went and saw it in theaters and Mammon cried.” Beel stage whispered, him and his brother not even bothering to contain their laughter.

They continued to discuss the movie, though you tuned them out. You chewed your lip, fidgeting in your seat. It’s not as if you hadn’t watched any horror movies before, you were roped into your fair share of murderers and poltergeists during sleepovers growing up. You could almost hear your childhood friends taunting you for your visceral reactions. 

You knew things were different now, that Beel and Belphie weren’t 11-year-olds determined to single out the weak and prey on their insecurities. They were demons, which was definitely several steps up from middle schoolers. You were in literal Hell right now, surrounded by demons. Could any horror movie even match that?

But if you were afraid… Would they laugh at you like they laughed about Mammon. Would they regret inviting you? Reconsider being friends with a weak human? 

Despite those thoughts, you didn’t want to disappoint Beel and Belpie, since you’d already told them you’d watch a movie with them.

For a second you considered admitting the truth, telling them you’re afraid and asking if they’d put on something else. But how predictable would that be? You, the human, afraid of a little horror. You didn’t want to ruin their movie night by making them watch something less worthy of their attention.

In the end you took a deep breath, steeling your nerves.

“A-actually, I’ll stay.”

Belphie let out a content chirp, snuggling further against you.

“Really?” Beel asked, his eyes lighting up. “But what about your assignment. I don’t want you to fall behind in school because of us.”

“Turns out I was mistaken, I just remembered it’s due next week, not tomorrow.”

“Okay, great!” Beel settled further into the couch, putting an arm around you.

You did your best to get comfortable, though you couldn’t put your nerves at ease, especially when the movie started.

Despite your own nerves, Beel and Belphie seemed completely unfazed. In fact, after only a few minutes you heard a soft snoring at your side, Belpie’s head lolling against your shoulder.

Beel looked over, letting out an exasperated sigh. “He always does this.”

He watched his brother with a fond expression and reached out, rubbing Belphie’s head. Belphie leaned into the touch, falling from his resting place against your side and curling up across your legs, his head resting in his brother’s lap.

Beel let out a small chuckle, stroking Belphie’s hair. “He’s just so at peace when he’s asleep.” 

You nodded, though you couldn’t understand how anyone could be at peace when there was a murderer with a chainsaw and a thirst for blood committing murders on the screen. The killer wasn’t human, or a demon, but rather something else entirely. Like sewed together pieces, nothing quite fitting into place. It’s voice sounded wrong, grating against your ears and causing you to shiver.

And the girl running just tripped and oh no she lost her keys and oh no oh no oh no-

You covered your eyes as blood splattered against the screen.

“Is everything okay?” Beel asked and you nearly went into cardiac arrest from the sudden sound of his voice. “You’re shaking.”

You swallowed, shaking your head. “I-”

“Stop being a baby!” You heard your childhood friend laugh as you hid your face in a pillow. “It’s not even that scary! My little brother isn’t even crying! We aren’t gonna turn it off so if you can’t handle it then go call your “mommy” to take you home.”

“Just cold,” you forced out, barely managing a tight smile.

Beel frowned, pulling off his jacket. “Here, you can wear this.” He placed it around your shoulders and pulled you closer to him.

“Th-thanks…”

You clenched your fist at your sides, annoyed with yourself. You made dinner with the actual Satan yesterday, and you were letting this creature scare you? No, you were better than that.

You continued to watch as the characters were picked off, one by one. Each time you bit back your screams, refusing to let the movie win.

Soon there were only two characters left. They needed somewhere to hide. As long as they chose anywhere but the… and they were heading into the basement. They stumbled around in the dark, whispering to themselves about how they were safe. But you knew… You knew it was down there.

The main character reached for a flashlight and you shook your head, silently begging him to stop. Your nails bit into your palms as it flickered on. You froze in anticipation, waiting. The light swept across the room and then-

The scream you’d been restraining for the past 2 hours finally escaped as you turned, burying your face into Beel’s chest. You covered your ears against the onslaught of horrific noises coming from the speakers. 

“Hey, it’s okay,” Beel assured you, wrapping his arms around you. “Are you scared?”

You pulled away at that, shaking your head. “I-I’m fine.”

“Are you sure?” He asked, unconvinced, and you nodded. “Okay.” 

He turned his attention back to the movie, which finished shortly after. He stood as the credits rolled and scooped Belphie into his arms.

“Goodnight,” he said to you, turning to leave.

“Wait!” Don’t leave me here. “I-I’ll walk with you.”

You quickly followed Beel to his room, awkwardly standing in the doorway as he tucked Belphie into bed. Once he was finished he looked back at you, almost surprised to see you were still standing there.

“Do you want me to walk you back to your room?”

You paused, thinking it over. You remembered being a kid, timidly following your friends around their house after the movie.

“You’re being such a scaredy cat, it’s so annoying. What, do you need us to hold your hands? You’re just walking down the hall, jeez.”

Despite how desperately you wanted to take him up on his offer, you knew you couldn’t. So you shook your head, forcing your body to back away into the hall. 

“Are you sure? I wouldn’t mind. You seem scared.”

“I-I’m fine. I’m perfectly capable of walking to my room alone. I-I can do that.”

“Really?”

“In fact,” you turned your attention to the sleeping demon. “I-I think Belphie would be scared. If you left and he woke up alone, I mean.”

Beel frowned at that. “Yeah, maybe. Though, I leave for the kitchen a lot at night…” He turned, staring at his brother, probably worried.

You felt a pang of guilt about worrying Beel, though you knew Belphie was the one thing that could distract him. You needed to divert his attention, to keep him from seeing how utterly terrified you were.

Your first few steps down the hall were slow and jagged, your limbs hard to control as your nerves kept your body partially paralyzed. You took deep, shaky breaths until finally you were running. You were sure you could have won a track and field gold medal by the time you made it to your room. When you got there you slammed the door closed behind you and jumped into bed, cowering under the covers.

You laid there, using your D.D.D for light, and did your best to steady your breathing. You tried to fall asleep, but your eyes remained wide open, refusing to shut. 

After an hour of lying frozen, your phone finally died.

You felt your heart skip a beat, your breath caught in your throat as your room was bathed in darkness. Part of you regretted not flicking on your light as you came in, before confining yourself under the covers. As the darkness settled over you, you were still for a few seconds, then, you shot up.

Despite being in a house full of demons, you felt as though the creature was there. As though like in the movie, you’d turn on the light and find it behind you.

Your body moved on it's own and you found yourself sprinting down the hall, your legs moving faster than ever before. You threw open the twins door, and Beel sat up in his bed, confused.

Before he could process anything, you were in his bed, clinging to him and sobbing.

“I-I'll admit it, I'm scared! I’m sorry, but I’m scared. I-I tried not to be, I-I tried to watch the movie and to not let it affect me but I failed.”

“Hey, shh, you’re okay, I’ve got you,” he reassured you, wrapping his arms around you.

“J-just laugh at me and get it over with.”

“Laugh at you? I’m not going to do that.”

You pulled away and looked up at him, searching his face for insincerity. “B-but-”

You heard a noise and cut yourself off with a startled squeak, burying your face against Beel’s chest.

 “Hey, it’s okay, relax. That was just Belphie rolling over.” He held you closer, rubbing your back. “The creature isn’t going to get you, not here.”

“I know, that’s what makes being scared so frustrating. I-I know it’s not real, and that I’m being irrational and-and a baby and a scaredy cat and annoying and weak and-”

“Hey,” Beel stopped you, squeezing you tighter. “I don’t think any of that, it’s okay to be scared. I’m sorry for making you watch something like that. I-I should have realized.”

You shook your head. “It’s my fault, I should have said something…”

There was a loud yawn from across the room and Belphie sat up, rubbing his eyes.

“I’m sorry, did I wake you?” You asked, turning to him with a sniffle.

He frowned at you, ignoring the question.

“Are you okay?”

You thought it over, but decided it’s time to stop hiding your fears. You shook your head, more tears falling from your eyes.

Belphie joined you on Beel's bed, hugging you from behind. 

“Do you want to sleep here tonight?” He asked and you let out a sigh.

“I’m not sure I’ll be able to fall asleep, horror movies have that effect on me.”

The two frowned, looking at each other as if devising a plan. Then, they stood, each one taking one of your hands into their own.

“Where are we going?” You asked as they led you down the hall.

“Well, we promised you a movie,” Beel explained.

“And we don’t think the last one should count.” Belpie added.

They sat with you on the couch, putting on Demonflix and choosing a family-friendly animated film.

“You guys don’t have to watch that if you don’t want to…”

“Of course we want to! We may be demons but that doesn’t mean we just like horror films,” Beel assured you.

“Yeah, we watch this movie all the time. Beel cries each time.” 

Beel smiled and nodded. “Yeah, I do. It’s heart-warming.” 

You felt yourself finally able to relax, the warmth of the brothers and the light of the screen making you feel safe. You heard Belphie begin snoring and realized that your own eyelids were beginning to grow heavy. You let them fall closed and rested your head against Beel.

“Really?” He said with a small chuckle. “You too?”

You nodded, slurring out an apology and snuggling closer against him. You heard him sigh, wrapping his arms around you.

“Sweet dreams,” he whispered and you smiled, feeling him press his lips to the top of your head.

Despite the horror movie, while lying in Beel's arms with Belphie fast asleep against your other side, you found it impossible to feel anything besides safe.

[deadlybeautydbz]

Little Moments

So, the anon asking me the other day about 17 and 18 fic recs got me thinking. I wanted to write something for you, anon, but for a little while I was stumped as to what. So I took inspiration from my own life for this one. I myself have a twin brother and we’re both parents, so I asked myself, what does hanging out with my brother look like, and I give you this.

17 and 18 washing dishes. 

You wanted random sibling hangs, here you go, with the most random hang of all. Really though, this is what hanging out as adults, siblings, parents looks like for us and I’m pretty happy with this for something I whipped up in a day. I hope ya’ll enjoy!

Little Moments:

“That’s the last of them gone,” 17 said, his voice thick with relief as he walked into the kitchen, wiping his hands on his jeans. “Who would have known twenty 7 year olds would be such a handful.”

He had just closed the door on last straggling guest of his oldest son, Onyx, 7th birthday party. He’d cheerfully waved goodbye as he watched the boy and his mother wander off down the driveway, party bag and balloon clutched firmly in hand. He felt kind of guilty, sending that child home hopped up to his eyeballs on sugar, but the guilt was short lived, birthday parties we meant to be fun-filled sugar trips.

“Literally everyone, 17” 18, who was seated at the table in the centre of the kitchen, nursing a mug of rapidly cooling tea, replied. “Literally everyone knows that. Why do you think I only have one?”

“You should give Marron a brother or sister.” 17 said offhandedly, as he began the arduous task of putting his house back together post child-birthday-party-chaos. “It’d be good for her.”

“Hmmm,” 18 stood up from the table and reached for an empty garbage bag. She moved about the kitchen, filling it with plastic plates and cups, deflated balloons and discarded wrapping paper. “Maybe,” she mused. “I’d be lying if I said we hadn’t thought about it. The timing never seems quite right though, and Marron was such a fussy baby, I don’t know if I have it in me to go back to the baby stage and do all that again. It’s so nice that she’s older and more independent now.”

“Of course you could do it again!” 17 said as he pushed furniture around the room, putting things back as they were meant to be. “You’re a great mum. Mare-bear is lucky to have you. Does she miss that old lump of sand you used to call home?”

“Hey,” 18’s brow crinkled as she only half-feigned hurt. “We all liked that lump of sand. A lot of good things happened to us there.”

“I know, I know, I’m kidding,” 17 teased “It was a fine sandbank.”

“Shut up,” 18 laughed. “You can hardly talk, all the way out here in the middle of nowhere.” She knew 17 was just trying to rile her up, that was just what brothers, especially hers, did. It didn’t matter how many years passed, or that he was now a husband, a father and a well-respected conservationist, he was an eternal man-child at heart. It was no wonder he got along with Goku so well. “She doesn’t seem to miss it too much these days,” 18 said, bringing their conversation back on track. “It’s been what,” she paused to quickly do the math, “three years now since Krillin joined the force, three and a half almost. She’ll always be an ocean girl at heart, but she’s happy in the city. It was the best thing we could’ve done for her really.”

Having filled the rubbish bag as much as she could, 18 tied a knot at the top, and placed it beside the side door, ready for disposal outside later, before turning her attention to the pile of dishes stacked up precariously beside the sink.

“You don’t have to do those,” 17 stepped in, but his sister was having none of it. “Don’t be silly,” she replied whilst squirting a generous amount of dish soap into the sink and silently patting herself on the back for buying a house with a dishwasher. “You and Amya hosted us all day, the least I can do is help tidy up. Tell you what, I’ll wash, you dry.”

“Deal,” 17 smiled. It was so rare to get to spend any sort of quality time with his sister these days, they were both so busy and their schedules always seemed to clash, so he would happily take whatever he could get, even if it was as mundane as standing together at his kitchen sink, washing dishes.

They stood quietly together for a moment, silently passing wet plates and glasses between themselves. From where they stood, they could look out into 17’s lush, tree filled yard, where Krillin was running around like an absolute mad-man, laughing and shouting with Marron and her three cousins. His love and exuberance never ceased to amaze 18. He was going to be forty soon, and yet there he was, after spending an entire afternoon entertaining a gaggle of under-10’s, still going, giving even more of himself to those kids out there, each of whom he loved more than anything else in this world – except maybe for her.

“He’s a good guy, Krillin,” 17 broke the quiet with an observation, “You chose well with him.”

“I know,” 18 smiled smugly. She liked hearing that she was right. “But you’ve certainly changed your tune over the years.

It was far from a secret that 17 hadn’t exactly been a fan of Krillin in the beginning. As a suitor for his sister, it just didn’t seem to fit. Why would he, of all people, be interested in her when he knew what he did about how, and why, she had come to be in this world? 17 was convinced that he must have had some nefarious ulterior motive.

“What can I say” he shrugged, “I’m a big enough man to admit when I’m wrong. He’s a good guy.”

“He’s the best” 18 smiled as her eyes followed her husband across the yard. “Ugh,” 17 groaned “You’re still in puppy-love with him after all this time. Get a room, my god, yuck.” “As if you can talk!” 18 shot back, trying desperately to hide her embarrassment. “I see the way you look at Amya. You’re completely smitten with her!” “Of course I am!” 17 boasted proudly. “I mean, have you seen her?! She’s a solid ten outta ten. And she’s smart as hell, and she puts up with my shit on the daily. Every day I wonder how the hell I ever convinced her to marry me!” “She’s certainly way out of your league, that’s for sure.” “Ouch, that hurts sis” “Oh, don’t be such a baby,” 18 grinned and flicked soapy water in her brother’s direction.

A high pitched squeal from the garden caught the twins’ attention, ending their mild bullying of each other. They both snapped their heads up to inspect the situation and their respective children, looking for any obvious signs of hurt of injury, and to see which kid it was exactly, that was getting out of hand. It could have been any one of them really, given the unfettered access to sugar they had had this afternoon. “They’ll be right,” 18 said, confident no bones were broken out there, as she resumed washing the dishes in the sink. “Krillin is more than capable of keeping the four of them under control.”

17 shook his head and laughed, “I think you’re seriously under-estimating how rowdy my lot can be. They just seem to leech energy off each other. They never stop!” “He deals with criminals every day, I think he can handle a couple of kids.” “Whatever you say, sis,” 17 mumbled and shrugged his shoulders. “Personally, I’d take the crooks over those terrors any day of the week.”

As she handed her brother another clean dish, 18 asked. “No more for you guys either then, I’m guessing? It seems like you have your hands full.” “I wouldn’t say that,” 17 replied. “They’re a lot of fun, and Am would definitely be down for more, but it’s hard enough with the three of them with my schedule, and her research. I don’t know how she manages with them by herself while I’m away.” “It’s probably easier without you here riling them up all day” 18 joked “You kid, but let’s be real, you’re probably right!” 17 had to agree. “I’m basically her fourth child. I’m sure her life is much less chaotic when I’m not around.” “She loves the chaos, I’m sure.”

Handing 17 the last clean dish, 18 pulled the plug from the sink and watched the water gurgle down the drain. She wiped down the sink and dried her hands before flicking the kettle on to make herself another cup of tea. She pulled down two clean mugs and poured one for 17 too. He smiled and gladly took it from her and they sat down together at the table.

“If we did have more, we’d definitely adopt again,” 17 picked up his train of thought as he sipped his tea. “It was so rewarding giving River and Storm a second chance. I’d like to that again if I could.”

The story of how the now 4 year old twins River and Storm had found their way into 17 and Amya’s life was nothing short of remarkable. 17 had found them, abandoned as infants, less than six months old, in the nature park where he worked. He had taken them in, and taken them home. Much to his wife’s surprise, he had walked through the door one day, carrying an infant in each arm, and just like that, 17 and Amya had become parents to three kids under the age of three.

“And you know, getting as many kids out of the system as possible can only be a good thing. Stop them ending up, like, y’know…” he faulted for a moment “like us.” He stopped, waiting for his sister to respond, but she didn’t, she just sat, staring at her hands, not even able to look him in the eye. “Do you ever wonder if there is anyone out there missing us?”

“Don’t” 18 quickly interjected, her voice soft and wistful. “I can’t. I have to think that we weren’t wanted.” She stopped to sip her tea and think about what she wanted to say next. “The alternative, as a mother, is so much worse. Having your child ripped away from you, I can’t even comprehend it.”

That was, deep down, the real reason why Marron was an only child. 18 was so protective of her daughter, and the thought of having to split that devotion between two children, was terrifying. She knew that she wouldn’t be able to constantly have eyes on two children. Tying herself up with the demands of a newborn would surely mean having to accept the fact that there would be times that Marron would need to be left alone and that scared 18 to her core. She would never, ever forgive herself if anything happened to her precious child.

“How do you do it?” 18 asked, “How do you leave them without being terrified of all the things that could happen to them? That happened to us?” “You’ve just gotta back yourself in, sis” 17 leaned back in his chair and stretched his arms over his head. “Your job as a parent is to slowly back yourself out of your kid’s life and let them work it out on their own.”

At that moment, the side door swung open and a barrage of kid sized arms and legs tumbled though, followed by an exhausted looking Krillin. “It’s starting to get cold out there,” he exclaimed, shutting the door behind him. The kids quickly disappeared into the living room, to undoubtedly rip into, and probably break, all of Onyx’s gifts from the party. Much to their dismay though, they had already been safely packed away by Amya, who was just walking into the kitchen as the kids rushed out. “They are going to be completely feral when that sugar wears off. Hey, you guys didn’t have to tidy up in here.” She smiled as she noticed that her kitchen was once again sparkling clean.

“It was no bother,” 18 said with a smile. She truly loved Amya, she was such a kind and compassionate person, she was reasonable and level headed and truly balanced out 17’s more impulsive tendencies. She was so glad they had found each other.

She watched Krillin as he moved through the kitchen, towards her. He planted a kiss on top of her head before taking a seat beside her at the table. She smiled at him in return and rested her hand on his thigh. The afternoon had been hectic, with all four adults being pulled in different directions, supervising kids, cooking food, running party games, taking pictures, making sure no one ate anything they were allergic to, or tried to drink water from the dog bowls. 18 had hardly seen her husband all afternoon and she quickly realised she’d missed him.

Once upon a time, a moment like this would be seemed all but impossible to 18. She looked across at 17 and saw her thoughts mirrored back in his eyes. He was content and happy and soaking in every detail. He caught 18 looking at him and shared a smile back, he knew they were thinking the same thing.

While the big, grand gestures of life were amazing, it was the inconspicuous little moments that meant the most to them. Cosy afternoons in with family. Quiet conversations about nothing. A passing smile or I love you. This was one of those moments, unassuming and meek, but something they had both fought so hard to obtain. A swell of emotion rose up into 18’s throat and for a moment she almost felt overwhelmed with warmth and happiness. She was truly grateful to be alive to experience this moment, this completely normal, utterly mundane, human moment.

---

Should I upload this to the prompt collection or nah? Does it fit the feel of it? I’d love to know what you think, cause I’m human and a sucker for reviews!

Hope you liked this one guys, likes, comments, shares as always, are greatly appreciated. 

What should I write next?? Lemme know!!

[gustafsnightangel]

Shattered Lives Ch 26 Pt 1

She woke early with Lily, and smiled, Gustaf was still out cold. It wasn’t until she climbed out of bed that she almost cried at the sight. Finn and Gustaf were curled up tightly, the giant of a man holding the kid into him, protection, safety. What had happened last night, she wondered? Bad dream, belly ache, with Finn it was probably a bad dream and anxiety at them leaving for the weekend. Should we just cancel it, she wondered? Was this all too much, too soon?

She woke Finn carefully and he crawled out from under Gustaf’s arm and hugged her tightly before going back to his room to wake Liam. She’d ask later, Gustaf had dealt with it successfully, whatever it was, and it hammered the point home a little more that she had to let go of the reins a little, she had to yield. It warmed her to know the kids felt comfortable with him.

After getting the little lady changed and dressed for the day she sat on the edge of the bed to watch him sleep. He was on his stomach, sprawled out in much the same fashion as she usually did, those long limbs tangled in the sheets. Damn he looked sexy like this, she thought, all sleepy and soft. She wanted to kiss every inch of him until he begged her to fuck him.

“Dad dad dad.” Lily chattered quietly pointing to him.

“You want to wake him up?” She smiled at the not so tiny girl, she was growing so fast. Sildie sat Lily on the bed and let her crawl to Gustaf. She patted his arm and talked to him, chattering as if he were awake and knew exactly what she was saying. Sildie watched as he woke and focused on Lily, that content smile blooming across his face. That same question came flooding back to her, did she want kids with him? A question that was too painful for him and too fucking scary for her.

His eyes opened to a grinning Lily chattering away, those big blue eyes looking at him as if he was her entire world. Once she realized he was awake she squealed a dad dad and he wrapped and arm around her bringing her close for morning kisses which soon had her giggling. His eyes landed on Sildie, that gorgeous smile she saved just for him beaming back.

“Morning love.” She chuckled.

“Good morning. Not the wake up I was expecting.” He grinned.

“She insisted.” Sildie chuckled as Lily snuggled in with him. She took the hand he offered and he tugged her to lay with them and snuggled her in too.

“My two best girls.” He murmured and kissed Sildie, a kiss that rocked her world and left her breathless. “What time is it?” He asked scrubbing a hand over his face.

“Six ish. We have plenty of time. I wanted to be up with the kids this morning, you’ve been doing enough of that lately, and I needed to spend time with them before we go.”

“I’m happy to, you know that.” He murmured his voice husky with sleep.

“Doesn’t make me feel any less guilty for doing them on you.” She scoffed.

“Hey.” He cupped her behind the neck as she went to pull away and held her a breath from him. “We do this together Sildie, no more keeping score, together, family unit.” He kissed her, that love he buried deep surging forward and wrapping itself around her. One day he hoped the guilt would lessen and she’d lean on him more. “There are going to be times that I’ll be away for months on location, enjoy this while it lasts.” He kissed her tenderly.

“Tea?” She asked, wanting to change the subject. She didn’t want to think about him not being here for months on end.

“Please.” He held her close not ready to let her go. “Look at me.” He murmured and when she did her heart swelled. It was there, the love, the tenderness, the kindness. “Together Sildie. You and me.” He kissed her long and slow, and she was breathless when she pulled away.

She got up to make tea and left Lily with Gustaf, the little lady quite content to be cuddled up with him.

“Oh, what happened with Finn last night?” She asked gently as she climbed off the bed.

“Nightmare.” He said simply.

“About?”

“Us going away. I didn’t come back and the kids had to bury me like Quinn.” He watched her carefully. He didn’t sugarcoat it, he knew her better than that. She was a straight shooter and needed to hear it just how it was.

“Shit.” She breathed out, her chest suddenly tighter than before. She should have seen it.

“Yeah. It was pretty rough at 2 am. We talked and he’s good.”

“Thank you.” She said quietly and leaned down to kiss him.

“He’ll be fine, so will we. We’ve done everything we can to prepare them and taken all the precautions for ourselves. We just have to wing the rest.”

She headed out and the twins wrapped her in a hug as she came into the kitchen and she helped them get breakfast ready while the kettle boiled. She sensed the twins apprehension and assured them she would call, she didn’t mention the nightmare, that had been dealt with. Brendan was still quiet, well quieter than usual she thought. He came to her and hugged her hard.

“You ok?” She murmured softly.

“Yeah. Me and Gustaf talked.” He said getting the bowls out and handing them to Finn.

“Gustaf and I.” She corrected. “And that’s good. I’ll phone Alice and the school when we get there ok? They’ll get a message to you, can you let the twins know?” He nodded and hugged her again.

“We’ll be ok, and so will you.” He smiled.

“Yes we will.” She watched as he sat down, it was like an entirely new kid was sitting before her. The weight that had been crushing him for the better part of a year was gone.

She stood there thinking as she made the tea and stared at Gustaf as he walked out in sweats with Lily on his hip, that bare chest just begging to be touched.

“You ok love? You look perplexed.” He chuckled as he sat Lily in her chair for breakfast.

“Yeah... I’m ok.” She said shaking her head.

“You sure?” He asked softly as he stood in front of her, knowing something had inched its way under her skin.

“Yeah I’ll ask you about it later.” She was sure it was something Gustaf had talked to Brendan about but had to be sure, just in case she was missing something really important.

Gustaf made the lunches while Sildie fed Lily and talked with the boys, she was nervous and so were the kids. It was a recipe for disaster if he pushed her for an answer. He snuck in a few treats in their lunches and snapped the lids on before lining them up on the counter, he wanted them to have a good start to their weekend and grinned. He’d organized other surprises for them too, he and Alice had it all planned out.

With the kids dressed and ready they piled into the car and headed out. The only tears were from Sildie on the way home. He could see the apprehension, the slight fear of what could happen, her mind already going into overdrive.

“Don’t cry love.” He murmured gently, the separation was hard on her too.

“I’m good it’s just...” she blew a breath out to settle herself. “It’s been a long road to get them this far without freaking out, and here I am about to lose it.”

Once he’d pulled up in her parking space and the hand brake was on, he leaned over the center console, took her head in his hands, and kissed her. He felt her body go lax, giving in to him. She was dizzy and out of breath when he let her go.

“They’ll be fine love, so will we.” He’d keep reassuring her all weekend if that’s what she needed. “Come on, let’s get everything squared away, grab our bags.” He got out of the car and waited for her to join him before gently pressing her against it and kissing her more thoroughly.

“We’re not going to make it upstairs if you keep kissing me like that.” She said seductively.

“No sex until we’re there. Then and only then will I rock your world.” He kissed her again. “Repeatedly.” He added and took her hand. “Over the entire weekend.” He growled and kissed her chastely before they took the stairs to her apartment. “Because I have a taste for you love.”

Gustaf took care of the breakfast dishes while Sildie packed and he saw the hesitation on her face as she came out, bag in hand.

“It’s so quiet.” She said softly, looking around the apartment. “So empty.”

“It is.” He came to stand in front of her and took the bag placing it next to his. “Look at me love.” He murmured, she was hurting and terrified, he could feel it, and he needed to get her past this before they could leave. “They’ll be ok.” He reassured her when those eyes of glacial blue landed on him. “Alice will take good care of them and she has my entire family as backup, including two doctors.” He kissed her sweetly. “Let it be for the weekend ok. Let me take you away to relax and unwind, let them have a games filled weekend with my brother. They’re going to have so much fun they won’t even know we’re gone.” He chuckled and saw the slight smile. “You ready?”

“I think so.” She was still unsure.

“How do I turn that into, I’m good let’s go?” He asked gently. He’d do anything to settle her and although he was raring to go, she needed time and space to process.

“Just give me a minute ok.” She breathed out and wrapped her arms around him.

“Take all the minutes you need love.” He kissed her temple and lingered, letting her find the calm she needed. There was more to her apprehension, he could sense it but didn’t know what it was or how to fix it, yet.

He felt her take a few deep breaths and hold him tighter before looking at him.

“They know they can phone us right?” She asked quietly. “Your brother, Alice?”

“They know and they will if they need to.” He said gently. “Or if the kids just need to touch base.”

“Ok.” She blew a breath out. “I’m good, I think.”

“Ok then.” His kiss was one that blanked her mind. “Our weekend starts now.”

Once they were out of the city she lost herself to the scenery whizzing past. The city giving way to the suburbs, suburbs giving way to small towns that eventually became further and further apart.

At the start of the trip her mind was filled with thoughts of her life, full of stress, of guilt, of grief. She was drowning, not in the literal sense but emotionally she was going under. The car had been the tipping point. It was one more thing heaped on her plate to try and contend with.

She thought about what Gustaf had said that night. Family, his family, the unconditional love, the family she was a part of now whether she liked it or not. To be with Gustaf she’d have to get used to them helping, or offering to help, being in their lives.

She was ok with that, but the transition for her would be rough. She’d never had anyone except her brother for support and the thought of all his siblings suddenly there to help overwhelmed her, it made her feel like a failure, incompetent. He had a big family where as hers had been small, it was an adjustment.

To add to it she hated admitting she needed help, harder admitting it to the man she was so ridiculously in love with. Would he stay long term if she leaned on him she wondered? Everyone had their limit for how much they could take on in a relationship, she was concerned it would be too much for him. Those thoughts drifted out of her mind as the scenery slipped by.

She eventually dozed, long car rides more than an hour usually did that to her. Gustaf grinned as he looked over at her, eyes closed and relaxed. When they’d left the city limits it was like all the stress had fallen away, all that responsibility suddenly no longer hers. This, was what he’d wanted for her.

“Sildie.” He said softly a few hours later. “Were nearly there.”

She opened her eyes and blinked. Snow capped peaks, lush forests, and tiny cabins nestled in amongst tree and rock greeted her.

“Where are we?”

“In the mountains.” He grinned.

“Well duh, I can see that Sherlock.” She quipped.

“I’ll show you on a map when we get settled.” His smile was contagious.

Once they’d parked in the garage by the main lodge they took a snowmobile to the cabin, another twenty minutes away. He’d brought them to a slice of winter paradise far away from anything resembling people and their regular day to day life. Her heart almost stopped at the sight as the cabin came into view. It was postcard worthy.

A tiny dark red cabin was nestled against a rocky hill, snow capped trees dotted around it. The land sloped away from the cabin to another grove of trees until it met the frozen lake. This vast expanse of ice went on for miles before the mountain loomed over it all. Gustaf pulled the snowmobile into the small shed and waited until she got off before climbing off himself.

He watched with a smile as she wandered out to stand and look at the scenery, the only sound her boots crunching on the snow and the occasional bird or creature scurrying around. He gave her the space, the time to let it sink in. They were alone for a weekend with zero responsibilities. He stood behind her and slipped the bag from her shoulder wrapping his arms around her.

“That’s some view.” He said softly as he kissed her temple.

“It’s beautiful.” She breathed.

“Mmm just like you.” He murmured and kissed that one spot below her ear as she laughed. He’d missed that laugh.

“I think this beats me hands down love.” She said in a matter of fact tone.

“I don’t know, I think you’re beautiful, and I happen to like you hands down.” He said softly. “On the bed.” He growled and spun her around quickly before planting a searing kiss on those lips he craved every second of every day until her knees buckled.

Chuckling wickedly he picked up their bags and walked toward the cabin. He stopped dead when the snowball hit him in the back of the head and she giggled, then snorted, which made her giggle some more. He carefully placed the bags on the top step and turned slowly. He saw the recognition on her face, the laughing at the fact she’d got him, to the, oh shit he’s coming to get me, before she tried to run as he advanced toward her.

She wasn’t going to get far in boots, in two feet of snow, giggling her ass off and she knew it. He gently tackled her to the ground squealing and laughing and kissed her before trying to shove a handful of snow down her shirt. She was saved by her ski jacket and the turtle neck sweater she was wearing.

“As cold as that was.” He said panting. “Your aim was impeccable.” He grinned and kissed her sweetly. Damn, he thought, she was so fucking beautiful. That laugh he hadn’t heard in months made his heart swell. Say it now fool.

“I couldn’t resist.” Her grin was mischievous.

“Obviously.” He said wryly with a chuckle and climbed off her helping her to her feet. He took her hand in his and kissed it, frozen fingers greeted him. “Let’s get you warmed up.” He kissed her fingers in the hopes it would warm them up a bit. “I can think of a few interesting ways.” He growled.

“I’m sure you can.” She snorted.

They set off for the tiny cabin and Sildie couldn’t contain the grin. The view was stunning, she wanted to grab a chair and just sit and look at it all day. That was until she saw the inside of the cabin.

The fire had already been lit and the air was a comfortable temperature. Gustaf helped her out of her jacket and smirked. He enjoyed watching her reactions to new things. He’d made the right choice coming here, this was what she desperately needed, what they both needed if he was being honest.

Burgundy and cream decor greeted her. The small living area with its deep wine sofa and soft chunky woolen throws. The candles and comfortable cushions adding a coziness she wanted to snuggle into and never leave. The dining table for two nestled in the corner near the neat kitchen in more creams with a touch of the bold accent color. She kicked off her boots and padded over to the only doorway in the place with exception of the front door.

A king size bed filled the room. Covers that looked warm and inviting, but that wasn’t what made her gasp. It was the floor to ceiling wall of windows opened to the expansive view, the glass roof over the bed letting in the sky above them. The smaller fireplace tucked in the corner was ablaze with a soft rug laid out in front meant for snuggling on. It couldn’t be more perfect.

“Now that’s a view.” Gustaf said quietly as he let his hand drift under her sweater at her hip, his fingers trailing skin seductively.

“This is just...” She turned in his arms to look at him. “I have no words, and beautiful and perfect don’t seem to do it justice.”

“You like it?”

“I love it.” She kissed him, that slow burn, sweet and seductive all on its own. “I need to phone the school.” She said suddenly, her thoughts snapping back to reality with a jolt, and he understood she needed to take care of that before she could fully relax.

“Take care of business love, let them know you’re safe, take your time.” He kissed her sweetly. “No rush.” He knew this was just as hard on her.

He left her to sit on the edge of the bed and call the school, hearing the murmurs and insist she speak with Brendan while he went to make tea.

“Hey B.” Her voice was excited, happy. Happier than it had been in months which made him feel that much better about the entire trip. “We’ve arrived and this place is magical. I’ll send Alice some pics for you ok?”

“Ok. The car ride ok?” Brendan asked and she heard the worry in the teens voice.

“It was just fine love, uneventful, and I fell asleep.” His chuckle eased her stress levels. “Be good for Alice ok, and Bill.”

“We will. Love you Ama. I need to get back.”

“Go, work hard love and B?” She said gently.

“Yah?”

“I’m so proud of you. Love you. Give the twins a big hug for me too ok and Lily. I miss you all already.” She chewed on her lower lip.

“Don’t miss us too much, you need to have fun.” She could hear the grin in his voice.

“I already snowballed Gustaf.” The laugh was the genuine laugh from him she hadn’t heard ages. It reminded her so much of his father.

“Nice!”

“Yeah but I’m not looking forward to the retribution.” She chuckled. Well not if it’s of the snowball variety. She knew all too well Gustaf’s retribution usually involved sex and completely destroying her in the most delightfully erotic way possible. “Love you B, I’ll see you Monday and you can call anytime ok.”

“I won’t. We’ll be fine.” This only added to her suspicion that Gustaf had said something to him. Something she’d chat with him about here shortly.

“Bye love.”

“Bye Ama love you.” She sat there smiling, they were ok, the kids, her and Gustaf. Everyone was safe.

“Ok, I gotta ask.” She said walking out to the kitchen and gently wrapping her arms around him as he poured tea.

“Ask away.”

“What did you say to Brendan last night?” She asked gently.

He turned and looked at her. “Nothing gets past you does it?” He smiled and kissed her temple.

“Nope, spill.”

“I took the burden from him.” He smiled at her confusion, the cute frown lines between her brows and kissed them tenderly. “I told him to let me worry about taking care of you, helping you with the big stuff, what a dad like person should do.” He said softly. “Not a kid that’s had to grow up way too fast.”

“Oh.” Of all the answers, that wasn’t what she expected. It made her heart ache with gratitude, and a touch of guilt that she’d subconsciously put all that pressure on the kid without realizing it. Great, she thought, a fabulous guardian you turned out to be.

“I told him to be a kid and let me take care of making sure you and his siblings were safe, working with you to be a family unit.”

Her lips crashed against his and he heard the sob escape holding her close bracing for the meltdown that never came.

“Thank you.” She murmured, and wiped the stray tear away, her forehead leaking against his.

“The kid’s been though enough Sildie, he needed a break, so I gave it to him.” He shrugged.

“It was something only you could give him. I’ve told him enough times not to worry about things but he would regardless.” Her hand rested against his cheek, her thumb gently rubbing those crows feet she loved.

“He’s a good kid.” He kissed her gently, letting that love wrap around her.

“And you’re a good man.” She said softly, and if the guy could’ve blushed he would have.

“At least someone thinks so.” He snorted.

“You’re everything to me love.” She said gently and kissed him. “You’re enough.”

“And you, are beautiful.” He murmured and deepened the kiss.

“Only to you.” She chuckled and made her way into the bedroom again, losing her thoughts at the sight.

“This view is breathtaking.” She sighed looking out the bedroom windows. “I could sit here for hours just looking at it.” She huffed and smiled as his arms locked around her.

“Then sit.” He said and kissed her head. “Get into your robe and sit. Tea in here?” He let her go as she nodded and watched as she sat on the window seat and stared into the distance.

When he returned with the pot of tea and two cups he smiled. She’d curled up with a chunky knit throw against the window lost in thought. He placed the tea on the table, shucked his clothes in favor of sweats, and sat, pulling her gently into his lap and holding her close.

“Penny for your thoughts.” He murmured softly.

“It’s serenely beautiful. It sucks you in and...” Her words dropped away as his mouth found her neck. “I can’t think when you do that.” She sighed.

“Good, no more thinking this weekend.” His kiss to her spot below her ear made her shiver. “Drink your tea.” He said quietly, still nibbling on her neck, not able to contain the smirk at her reaction.

“So what do you have planned for us for the rest of the day?” She asked quietly and moaned as he found that one spot on her neck that made her weak.

“Some more of just this.” He murmured and squeezed her tight before picking his tea up taking a sip. “There’s a small walk if you want to do that after lunch. Sit in the hot tub. Read. Sleep. It’s whatever you feel like doing love.” He let her think about that for a moment while he gazed out the window himself. He had a notebook to burn and that would happen tonight. He wasn’t putting that off any longer. “Or I could strip you naked and rock your world until you can’t walk.” He growled as his lips against her collarbone made her shiver. “Is that what you want me to do to you love?”

“Yes.” She breathed out as his hands cupped her breasts. Goddamn she loved his hands on her. His fingers inched the robe down to expose a shoulder, his lips torturing the skin thoroughly before repeating it on the other side. He cupped a hand to her cheek and turned her head to devour her mouth, fingers ghosting her throat as if to hold her by it but not gripping her yet.

Those hands, she whimpered as their sinful touch traveled the length of her torso as his mouth took hers. He made short work of the belt of her robe and parted the sea of silk fabric to reveal the stunning body underneath.

After slipping the robe from her arms he clasped her hands together behind his head, gently spreading her elbows out, those lush, ripe breasts on full display for him. His gaze fell on the swell of her breasts, the groan of appreciation as he gently cupped them making her smile. Fingers featherlight and seductive, touched and aroused while his teeth grazed her throat.

“My goddess.” He breathed, his cock twitching as her soft whimper graced his ears. “I’m going to ravage you so slowly.” He growled and kissed a trail along her neck. “Take my time bringing you completely undone.”

“Please.” She breathed softly as his fingers continued to seduce her.

“Mmmm, you’ll beg for me love.” He purred. “Rest your head back.” He murmured and with a hand at her throat gently guided her to his shoulder as she leaned back. “Relax, just feel.”

She closed her eyes and tried to relax. Every thought that tried to flutter around in her brain was banished moments later by those clever fingers dancing across her skin. Soon her brain was filled with just the erotic sensations he inflicted on her. The touch was so light goose flesh prickled her skin, the tiny shudders that rippled over her body when it became too much for the nerve endings to handle.

He sat there for nearly an hour caressing her body. The feel of her under his hands, the stress and fear melting away with each touch. Drifting a finger over her breast he gently pinched her nipple and watched the nub grow hard, the soft gasp as his action took her slightly by surprise. With her hands behind his neck those perfect ripe orbs were pushed out, begging to be tended. He moaned his pleasure as he filled his hands with her breasts, his lips finding the dip in her collarbone, tongue tasting.

Every swipe and gentle pinch of her nipples sent an increasing jolt of pleasure to her core, her pussy no doubt wet and wanting by now. She whimpered as those fingers slowly descended toward her mound where the ache for him to touch her becoming overwhelming. He hooked her behind the knee and pulled her leg up and over his bent knee, the action spreading her hips open for him. Repeating the action to the other side he feasted on her neck, those small gasps making his cock twitch.

His finger trailed her inner thigh. “You want me to touch you there don’t you?” He asked, her choked please making him harder for her. “Not this time love, I want you soaking before I fuck you.”

He took his time the same featherlight touch destroying her body and her mind until she was almost a blubbering mess. She needed release, to feel him inside her.

“I need you.” She cried as that finger found the dip between thigh and pussy and tortured her with slow circles.

“I know you do love, soon.” He breathed and kissed the spot just below her ear. When her cries of frustration and arousal were becoming closer together he gently lifted her into his lap fully. Bringing his sweats down to release his cock he rested it against her soaked heat.

“Gustaf.” She tensed, the contact enough to peak her orgasm. “Please.”

“Don’t chase it, let me give it to you.” He breathed as she whimpered, the tears almost real panic, her body trembling against him. “Relax and give yourself to me.” He coaxed, those fingers still weaving there destructive path. “I’m going to make you feel so good love.”He held her on the edge for what felt like hours, his cock painfully hard as his own need unraveled him. “Lay back with me, relax.” He breathed as he lowered them to lay flat along the window seat. Flexing his knees out he positioned her, opening her hips wider and felt his engorged head graze her heat, his groan was a guttural growl. “You’re soaked for me love.” He nuzzled her neck murmuring his approval.

“Please.” She was going insane, her mind not able to comprehend anything anymore as he kept her hovering on the edge of a cataclysmic orgasm.

Resting his tip at her entrance he felt her body shudder with anticipation, the soft mewls as her climax neared. He slowly pushed, the tip of his cock barely entering her before stopping, her cry music to his ears. His hands gripped her hips as she moved to try and find her own release.

“Don’t chase it.” He whispered. “Let me give it to you, one inch at a time. Just feel.” His hands flexed out along her inner thighs and he felt her hips relax. She was so tight when he took her slowly like this and she’d feel every part of him. He kept her teetering on the edge as he slowly filled her with his cock, the girth of him stretching her gloriously as her orgasm sat a breath away. “Relax love.” He breathed as he started thrusting, the slow gentle push and pull inside her.

As he took her slowly his fingers continued their erotic assault. She couldn’t think, could barely breathe at the sensation of him filling her, that slow deep stretch. He spoke to her, that low tone that drove her wild. She felt the deeper release stir in her core, he had pulled it from her with that magic touch.

“Gustaf. Please.” She begged, it was almost painful now, the tears falling.

“Let it come to you love.” He murmured, her cry as it peaked one of shock, it would tear her apart. Her body trembled against his as he felt her pussy start to flutter. Snaking an arm up he flexed his hand over her throat and squeezed gently, her gasp and moan all the approval her needed. Slipping a finger over her clit she choked a breath and then screamed as her release shattered her.

He was relentless now, a hand working feverishly between her legs, an arm pinning her to him by the throat as he continued to assault her body in the most pleasurable way possible. She writhed and bucked as it ripped through her system, the endless euphoria crashing through every brain cell. Seeing stars was an understatement. He felt her hands claw at his shoulders from behind his head where he had them pinned, a search for purchase.

It didn’t ebb much before the next built and noting the change Gustaf plunged deeper and harder into her. With each orgasm he pulled from her the closer to the edge he became, his breathing as uneven as hers. She was tiring and knew this would be the last one and she’d sleep heavy after this.

“Come for me love, take me with you.” He breathed. He took her hard, the deep thrusts into her claiming the rest of his control. With his finger destroying her clit he bottomed out, caressing all those secret places inside her only he could reach. That soft cry from her lips was met with a rough groan as she came, the gentle squeeze of her throat heightening her ecstasy. As her pussy clenched around him he tensed and stilled for a split second as his release tore through him. He rode her through it prolonging their pleasure for as long as possible.

Both were spent, chests heaving, limbs trembling. When he could move and form a sentence he kissed her throat where his fingers had held her. Giving her a minute, or several, he gently lowered his legs and moved hers to lay between them, the sharp hiss causing him some concern.

He massaged her hips, not needing to ask if she was ok, she’d tell him, and he had to stop the habit of asking and trust her. He unlocked her hands from behind his head and brought them down, she yelped as he got them half way and stopped to massage her shoulders. Once by her side her wrapped his arms around her and held her tightly.

He felt her relax back, her body turn slightly to curl into him. She made his heart ache, made him feel so much, feel so needed, wanted, loved.

“I think you more than rocked my world.” She mumbled into his chest.

“Mission accomplished.” He murmured softly.

“I don’t think I can move, let alone walk.” She slurred. Not that she wanted to go anywhere after her man had utterly fucked her senseless.

He kissed the top of her head and pulled the chunky throw over them. “Good, you’re all blissed out, just as you should be.” He kissed her forehead and snuggled her in.

“I sure am.” She muttered

“Your hips and shoulders ok?” He asked as his large paws rubbed over them.

“Yeah, they just get stiff.” She smiled, he hadn’t asked her if she was ok straight away, progress, she thought. “Totally worth it.”

“Well, ok then.” He chuckled. “As long as it’s worth it.”

Finding some energy she stretched her head back to look at him, a finger trailing his scruff. When do I tell you she wondered? Utter those three little words that would change everything between them? Sometime this weekend, she decided, Ana be damned, she loved him and he needed to hear it.

Her soft kiss made his heart ache. “My goddess you are beautiful.” He murmured, those ice blue eyes finding his.

“Only to you love.” She chuckled as his stomach growled. “I guess we should eat.” She said sitting up, her arms still trembling.

“I guess so.”

She climbed off the seat and held out a hand for him. Taking it he stood and pulled her to him, kissing those lips slowly, longingly.

“Mmmm you taste good.” He mumbled against her mouth.

“Food.” She chuckled as she went to pull away. “You’ve ravaged me enough.” She scoffed with a wicked grin.

“Not yet I haven’t.” He growled and kissed her again. “But rest assured you will be.” He held her tight, that devastating kiss melting her brain.

“I have no doubt.” She grinned.

While Gustaf found his way around the tiny kitchen and reheating the gourmet meals already prepared, Sildie placed their bags in the bedroom and wandered around taking it all in.

“This place is beautiful.” She said as he placed the meal on the table and went back to the kitchen to grab their drinks. “Cozy, warm. That view, the peace. It’s like I’ve landed in a postcard.”

“I wanted somewhere we could just, be. No responsibilities for a few days, time and space to recharge. No people to interrupt.” He said as he sat down. “You need it.” He reached across the small table to take her hand and squeezed.

“So do you love.” She murmured, he probably needed it more than she did. She could still see the effects from Ana clinging to him. She hoped this weekend would see the remnants fade away. “Thank you. For this, for everything.” She said quietly. His eyes met hers and she saw the love in them.

“Always love.” He winked and started to eat.

They talked and ate, discussing plans for the week after Christmas and the possible trip to one of the larger cabins with the kids. It would be a good end to the year for them and a chance for Gustaf and the boys to bond further.

Gustaf bullied her out of the kitchen while he took care of the dishes. She had every intention of going on that short walk he’d talked about over lunch but her body had other ideas. Feeling warm and relaxed with a full belly and the coziness of the cabin, she curled up on the sofa with her book after filling the cabin with the smooth sound of some jazz. Her reading eventually turned into a four hour nap.

****************

@hausofobsession @ill-skillsgard @grandpa-sweaters @authentic90skidd @tuckersgirl @fairlyfallacy @flowers-in-your-hayr @raewritesfiction @stinkerbelle007 @kamie-b @mrsaugustwalker @skrsgardspam @loliwrites @trippedmetaldetector

[allicekitty13]

Born To Run: Chapter 1

Mary-Alice Brandon has just returned to her hometown after an incident causing her to relocate just a year ago. Meanwhile, Jasper has become increasingly frustrated with his home life and decides to uncover just what exactly his brother had been hiding. In 1957 two people, with two drastically different personalities meet for the first time. Will their worlds clash or will they realize the only ones they can truly trust with their secrets are each other.

Read On Ao3

Read On FFN

Her eyes fluttered open at the prompting chime of her alarm clock currently ringing on the bedside table to her right. Mustering up as much energy as possible when one was just pulled promptly frum slumber, Alice rolled from the comfortable position on her side to lie flat on her back. Despite the powder blue clock still ringing throughout her bedroom, Alice couldn't help but to reflect on the wonderful dream she'd been having.

In the night vision, she'd been back in Paris shopping with her step-sister Kate. Being in France the past year had been like a dream come true, a much-needed break from the reality she'd been forced to return to. Kate was newly engaged and thus had decided to return home to Nevada with Alice and her fiance, Garrett, in tow. 

Alice's stomach grumbled loudly and painfully, pulling her from the reminiscing session. She snapped her eyes shut tightly, attempting to ignore the alarm's offending bell and the painful ache in her stomach.  Of course, it was no use; her vacation was over. It was time to come down from the clouds and return to reality. Needing to focus on one issue at a time and the alarm still prompting to her side currently being the most prominent, Alice took a deep breath accepting her fate. Summing the energy to flick the little tab on top of the clock to the off position effectively silenced the alarm blanketing the room in silence. 

Willing herself to sit up fully, Alice removed the pale pink sleeping mask covering her eyes, finally greeting the day. She pulled the plush comforter away from her small body and swung her left over the mattress, placing her feet in the house slippers kept neatly next to the bed. She pulled the think pink satin robe that hung from her bedpost over her thin shoulders as she crossed the room to the window overlooking the back garden. Pulling open the lace curtains, Alice gazed down at the flowers.

It was just before dawn, her favorite time of the day. Alice reveled in the way the dim twilight touched down on the beautiful flowers and the small white iron bench she had coerced her father into placing in the middle of the lovely space. The scene was peaceful; day had started, although night hadn't quite ended. Nature reflecting how nothing was black and white; there were gray areas in everything, in everyone. Nothing like the reality she would be walking into in only a few hours. 

Turning her attention back to the clock, the small teen accepted that she had been staring out the window, lost in thought for far too long. Something her step-father, whom she was meant to meet for breakfast shortly, was regularly scolding her for.

She didn't remember her biological father, and her mother rarely spoke of the man. The facts she had were that her parents had been wed young in an arranged marriage in 1938, Edgar Brandon had been drafted to join the war just two years after Alice was born. The man had gone missing in action, presumed dead. 

Shortly after Alice's fourth birthday, Lilian had met a charming man by the name of Eleazar Burke. Before the year was out, the happy couple were married. Eleazar was the only father Alice had ever known. The now seventeen-year-old adored her unusual family; Kate was more than she could have ever asked for in an older sibling they, of course, fought at times but very close. While they may not be biologically related, Alice couldn't imagine a kinder, more understanding father in Eleazar. He loved all three of his daughters, including Alice, equally never playing favorites. He didn't play favorites, distributing the wealth and opportunity attached to his name evenly between the three girls.

Once she'd gotten moving, preparing for the day came like second nature. She now stood in front of the mirror with her hair and makeup done. She was fully dressed in her favorite skirt and sweater set, complete with the new petticoat she had picked up shopping with Kate over the summer. She'd been saving it specifically for her first day at school back in her hometown since the incident. The way it flared out the red skirt was both fashionable and made her hips look just a bit thicker. The matching cardigan hung somewhat loose, also in line with the current trends while slightly masking the frailness of her frame. She smoothed down the skirt and straightened out her pan collar perfectly before pinning both sides down with the lucky pearl collar pins inherited from her maternal grandmother. Alice took one final look in the mirror with a deep breath and silent prayer. She plastered a smile on her face, ready to face the day.

Meanwhile, across town, Jasper Whitlock was in for a quite literal rude awakening. "Wake up, sleepyhead. We're gonna' be late for school." With a groan of annoyance, Jasper opened his eyes to the familiar face of his cousin Rosalie. The sassy blonde was simultaneously one of his favorite people yet also the curse of his existence. Jasper frequently shifted between feelings of gratefulness for having such a fun-loving relative living next door and wishing her family had never moved across the country to help out after his mother's passing.

With her presently standing next to his bed, hands on her hips, very likely fully prepared to throw something at him if he didn't get moving. He was currently feeling the latter. "Since when do you care about school?" He groaned, sitting up on the thin mattress lying on the floor. "More importantly, why are you here, and how did you get in my room?"

"The door, your dads passed out again and it was unlocked." Rosalie shrugged, crossing the room to take a seat at the only chair not covered in clothing, sheet music, or records as she examined her nails. "Anyway, I don't care about school, but I don't want to miss the fireworks, so we're at least going to morning classes. Now, get up and get dressed."

"What are you yammering on about?" Jasper responded as he threw the worn, tattered blankets to the side and grabbed a white t-shirt from its place, lazily shoved into an already open dresser drawer directly to the side of his mattress.

"Mary-Alice Brandon is coming back today."

"Yeah," The other teen rolled his eyes. "Well fuck Mary-Alice Brandon."

"Oh, come on, tell me you don't care about the inherent entertainment of watching everyone flock back to following her lead and leaving poor Charlotte in the dust."

"You're demented."

"You know how petty high school politics amuse me so." The tall blonde woman shrugged before she stood straightening out her leather jacket as she crossed the room. "At least come to support your best friend? Charlotte is either going to be elated or upset. If it's the latter, it's going to make Pete upset. Relationships are kind of like dominos that way. Now hurry up, Riley's waiting outside, and we need a ride, oh favorite cousin of mine."

With that, Rosalie confidently strutted out of her cousin's room, down that hallway. In the Whitlock's living room, her mother and uncle were engaged in the same decade-old argument they'd been having from the moment Ruth and Joseph Hale had packed up their family moving from New York to Nevada. Rosalie had only been one at the time, having no memory of what actually happened. The backlash, however, had caused a ripple effect through the lives of everyone in the family. Because of this, it was no secret that Irene Whitlock had passed away shortly after Jasper's birth. That uncle Thomas had fallen into deep despair losing his job and drinking the days away. 

It was concern for the boys, James and Jasper, that had prompted the move. Her mother so worried for her nephew's well being that they'd relocated their entire lives to be there and help take care of them. It was meant to be temporary until Thomas got back on his feet. Seventeen years later, the siblings were still arguing over it. Her mother pleading for the man to think of his children. 

Unwilling to witness the same fight yet again, Rosalie left the house and headed to the street where her twin brother stood leaning against Jasper's car. "Is he coming?" Riley asked, disinterestedly kicking absently at the pavement, scuffing up his shoes in the process. 

"Yeah, I had to guilt-trip him, but he's coming."

Just as the words had left Rosalie's mouth, the seventeen-year-old in question came shuffling out of the house. Once the door was carefully and quietly shut behind him, Jasper's demeanor shifted, and he confidently stalked down the sidewalk, climbing into his car without uttering a single word. No sooner had the twins piled into the vehicle behind him than Jasper had peeled out of the driveway headed in the direction of the local high school, barely giving Riley enough time to pull the door shut.

Outside the school, Peter, Jasper's best friend, a tall boy with dark hair, was standing in the parking lot talking to Charlotte. The pair had begun dating over the summer, much to Jasper's annoyance. Their relationship had started in the fall when the girl had entered the antique shop owned by Jasper's uncle that Peter worked in part-time. The two had hit it off as instant friends. Despite a plethora of drama involving Charlotte's now ex-boyfriend Demetri and her friend Jane, the pair had entered into a romantic relationship.

While Jasper didn't particularly care for the girl or her crowd, Peter was gone for her. So the teen put up with Charlotte, and more often than he'd like the teenage queens who followed her around like puppies. Over time, though he would die before admitting it to anyone, he'd even begun to almost like her.

So, when he exited his car, Jasper nodded in greeting to the new couple from across the parking lot before turning to his own social circle in the parking space next to his own. The teens were gathered around admiring Benjamin's new car that he'd won in a race just a few weeks prior. Maria, one of his oldest friends having grown up in the same neighborhood, was already stretched out across the hood leaning back against the windshield. A cigarette burned from its place tucked loosely between her fingers as she chatted with Lucy and Nettie about their plans for the afternoon once they'd ditched.

Jasper was well aware that most if any of the assembled teenagers would be ducking out before the end of the school day. Personally, he intended to be long gone as soon as Rosalie's attention was elsewhere. Which, judging by how engaged she seemed to be in her conversation with Benjamin and Randall on the mechanical details of the new car, wouldn't be long. However, he was already here, and it wouldn't hurt to at least stay for first period. So he elected to join in on Riley, Makenna, and Charles's conversation about the new Buddy Holly single.

Jasper had just made plans with the latter two to head to the local diner later and play the song on the jukebox when Peter, followed closely by Charlotte, headed over to collect his best friend for homeroom. Bidding his friends goodbye, Jasper followed the other boy, his girlfriends, and the group of students she associated with into the building where their lockers were located. As always, because lockers were assigned alphabetically by surname, Peter and Jasper's lockers were right next to each other. 

Not planning on being an active student, let alone showing up at school more often than necessary, Jasper hadn't brought alone anything to warrant keeping in a locker. So, he took a seat on a bench located under a window next to the set of lockers letting the other teens chat as they placed their belonging in the metal storage structures. 

"Is that Mary-Alice?" Eric Yorke, a rather talkative and, in Jasper's opinion, annoying boy gasped out capturing his and Charlotte's attention. The latter turned away from her conversation with Bella and Jane to look at the boy in confusion. 

Charlotte had known her best friend was back in town, but when they'd spoken earlier Alice, as she'd decided to begin going by dropping the first half of her name, had stated her parents would allow the tiny teen to skip the first week of classes. Being an exceptional student well on the way to becoming valedictorian, and taking the incident into consideration, the school had happily accommodated.

"I thought you said she wasn't coming back until next week Char?" Bella spoke quietly, her eyes now following the same trajectory of Eric's

"Looks like the reign of Charlotte is over." Mike snickered, also staring at the top of the stairwell. Following her friends' gaze, Charlotte's expression quickly morphed from one of confusion to that of utter delight. 

Jasper didn't care much for the particulars of high school politics. Prior to Peter's entanglement with Charlotte, the name Mary-Alice had been nothing more than a blip on his radar. The two ran in vastly different circles, he being a proud greaser surrounding himself with like-minded truants who cared more about races and the newest records than anything else. She, a spoiled overachiever. The goody-two-shoes type who headed every committee whose word the majority of student's hung on. Still, even he'd noticed when the girl had disappeared a year ago. So, he turned his attention to the sight that had captured everyone's attention, curious as to what the commotion was about.

 He was met with the sight of a girl who's smile was so pure she almost seemed to glow. Short despite her blatant attempt to make up the difference with the kitten heels she wore. Her slightly curly hair was a chocolate-colored brown rested just short of her chin. Based on the perfect angles of her collar and the way she kept nervously smoothing out her skirt, it was apparent that she'd taken great care to ensure every aspect of her appearance was perfect. His dislike for the teen was instant; he hardly tried to hide the scowl from his face as he watched her scan the hallway. Once her blue eyes landed upon the small group, she burst into a bright smile and a somehow graceful run down the stairwell.

"Charlotte!" Alice exclaimed in a melodic chirp as she reached the gathering. 

"Alice!" The taller girl responded with equal enthusiasm throwing her arms around her friend. "What are you doing at school?" She questioned the smile never leaving her face as she released her friend.

"Papa thought it might be best to just jump right in if I was up for it since I'm home already." Her smile faltered at the statement but returned quickly. "Who are our new friends?" She asked catching sight of Jasper and Peter eyeing the two with curiosity. The former of whom rolled his eyes at the assumption, he was not nor would her ever be her friend.

Jasper opened his mouth to inform this 'Mary-Alice' of as much, but Charlotte responded before he could get the words out. "Alice," She stated grabbing Peter's hand. "This is Peter, my boyfriend. And that's his best friend Jasper."

"Wow," Alice's eyes widened. "I have missed a lot. It's lovely to meet you both." She smiled once again as she took a seat on the bench next to Jasper, expertly tucking her skirt underneath her slim legs as she descended. "The four of us should go bowling after school; I'd love to get to know the both of you better."

Jasper's annoyance grew at the suggestion, unable to put up with anymore he stood in a haste. "That's never going to happen." He shot the small girl a glare and stormed down the hall out of the building. Forget Rosalie, he thought approaching his vehicle in the parking lot. Forget school, and most of all forget Mary-Alice Brandon.

[msjr0119]

Forgive me

Part 7- Goodbye for now

A mini series, includes suicide and abuse.

Based on true events but using TRR characters who are owned by Pixelberry.

@annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @drakesensworld @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @pedudley @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @insideamirage @of-course-i-went-to-hartfeld @kozabaji @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @dangerouseggseagleartisan @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @yukinagato2012 @dcbbw @qammh-blog @nz1091 @beardedoafdonutwagon @cordonianroyalty @custaroonie

******

The Derby had ended, Liam was relieved as he couldn’t concentrate watching it with his father and Regina by his side- constantly asking questions regarding his relationship with Riley. Thoughts constantly repeated in his mind debating whether or not his father was being sincere with his previous words that were said. Drake came by to see him - to check on how his best was doing.

“Hey. I’ve got us a drink. Riley and Max won. Them two together are acting like excited puppies. It’s slightly annoying.”

“Drake come in.” Liam shouted sounding relieved to have some proper company by his side. Constantine and Regina excused themselves leaving the two men alone. Drake passed Liam a beer, as Liam was about to thank him- he noticed something on Drake’s neck.

“Erm, have you been sneaking off with Ella again? Or has Bat-sien had a go at your neck?”

“Damn! I might have to ask one of the girls for some make up. Is it bad? How are you and Riley? Have you kissed and made up yet? She wouldn’t tell us anything.”

“It could be worse. Leo used to literally have blood dripping down his neck. Yes, we are fine. My father is insisting that she should be Queen. Leo is inisisting that I should be Lucas’s father.”

“Leo? You’re as bad as Riley.”

“He’s here Drake. We are not crazy. I wanted to ask you something. A favour really.” Drake suddenly felt a cold shiver down his back- assuming it was just due to the grief he ignored it, wondering what type of favour a prince would require from a commoner.

“Shoot.”

“As there’s no social season, we won’t be doing all the usual events. I know you don’t like all the noble events anyway... so I was going to ask if you could go back to New York with Riley. With Ella too. Then come back together.”

“But you need me here. I go to those events because you are my best friend- my brother.”

“I need someone I trust to keep an eye out on Riley and Lucas. I just thought you’d, what do they say? ‘Jump at the chance’ to see Ella more.”

“Okay, I’ll do it. But you owe me some whiskey.” The two friends laughed at Drake’s bribery techniques. Liam knew he would owe him a lifetime of whiskey for protecting his family.

*****

It was Saturday morning, a week since the gentlemen had first met Riley. A week since she had informed them of the news that nobody would want to be hit with unexpectedly. Walking over to Lucas’s cot, Liam admired his nephew. A fusion of emotions hit him whilst looking adorably at the boy; happiness that this little miracle could carry on the Rhys name, sadness that Riley and he was leaving in the morning and guilt that Leo wasn’t around to celebrate this first milestone. Picking Lucas up, he held him tightly- in a week he had fallen in love with Leo’s mini me.

“Happy first birthday buddy. Your mommy has done a brilliant job of raising you. I love you so much. I hope to spend the rest of your birthdays celebrating with you. Are you going to be a rebellious prince like your father or the ‘goody two shoes’ prince like your uncle?”

“Hopefully a bit of both?”

“Ri... I... I didn’t know you was awake.”

“I felt cold once you got out of bed.” Riley smirked at him, her eyes pleading for him to join her back in bed, with the young prince. Liam carried Lucas over to the bed, witnessing the unconditional bond between a mother a son as Lucas wrapped his arms tightly around her neck.

“Happy birthday my baby. You are so loved. I am never leaving you, you mean so much to me. You may not remember today when you’re older, but this is such a special day.”

“I’ll leave you both to it.” Liam began to walk towards the door, Riley was confused as to why he would disappear- she knew he had no meetings today.

“Why? You’re family. We’re family.” Feeling relieved that Riley wanted to include him in this special occasion he smiled fondly at the two of them. The two people who at this moment in time meant the absolute world to him. Clearing his throat, he couldn’t wait to show Lucas what surprise he had for him.

“I asked Drake to pick me up a present for him from me.”

“You shouldn’t have. The greatest present you could have given him is being present in his life.”

“I’ll always be there for him and for you too.” Kissing her on the forehead he meant every word and had hoped that she would understand that he was being sincere. Sitting Lucas on the floor, he opened Riley’s presents from her first, and then Liam’s. The little boys eyes lit up.

“It’s a bit sentimental to me. Myself and Leo always used to play with trains. I hope he likes it. The royal family tend to keep children’s birthdays private, with just close family and friends attending. I wasn’t sure if you had anything planned seen as though it was an impromptu trip coming here. We could take him for a walk around the grounds? Have a picnic?”

“Sounds perfect Liam.”

******

Riley, Liam and Lucas spent the day just together- allowing Lucas to play with his new toys. Liam had built a train track that travelled all around his room- Riley wasn’t sure who was having more fun. The adult Prince or the young prince. The picnic was brief but simple- all feeling over faced after a while. Once bathing Lucas and reading him a goodnight story, he fell asleep immediately - Riley and Liam spent the remaining time they had together wrapped up under the quilt- their limbs intertwined. Both feeling content in each other’s embrace, surrounded by a calm atmosphere- Liam began to have hope that this was a premonition of what his future was going to entitle.

The morning after; Riley, Lucas, Drake, Ella and Rob were preparing for their flight back to New York. Liam had insisted that they used the royal jet suggesting that he would escort them there- but Drake disagreed, making a valid point that it would be harder and more emotional for Liam to let go of them.

“Drake will look after you both in New York, I will ring you every day. I’m going to miss you both so much.”

“We will miss you too. Won’t we Lucas.” Lucas snuggled into Liam, unable to keep his emotions hidden- Riley walked over to him, caressing his cheek and wiping away his tears with her thumb.

“I’ll be back before you know it your highness.” Liam didn’t care who saw his affections towards Riley, his lips brushed hers not in a teasing way but in a passionate and demanding way instead. Losing theirselves in each other, neither wanted to pull away. “Riley...” he whispered quietly yet slowly, her heart began fluttering at his voice.

“I’ll be waiting for you, always. Nothing will prevent me from seeing you both again.... Riley?”

“Yes?”

“I love you.” Riley hesitated at first, not knowing if to say those three little words back with an audience watching them.

“Liam, I...”

“Riley, come on. Say goodbye. I’ll look after them Liam. Can’t say that I’m going to miss the balls these next couple of weeks.” Drake laughed at his own sarcasm- slightly grateful that he didn’t have to put himself through those events. Liam didn’t feel like attending all the royal events. It was time to say goodbye. The goodbye he knew was coming sooner rather than later but also dreaded. The goodbye to the only person that he had ever felt content with. The only person that he had felt happy with. Without her he would feel like he had lost a limb. The last week, consisted of times that they would just talk, laugh, do normal things that normal people would do. Gaining a bond, learning about each other- sharing memories about Leo. Wishing he could turn back time, so he could have supported Leo when he was alive, saving everyone from all this continuous heartache. Already knowing that his chest would feel empty the minute she left- the only way he could get through this pain was knowing that she was going to return with Lucas.

“I’ll ring you once we land.” Liam nodded before kissing her with one lasting lingering kiss, attempting to hold back the tears that were forming in his baby blues. Watching the SUV drive away, it was as if it was in slow motion. Once it was out of sight, he headed straight to his quarters pushing past everyone who was shouting his name in a concerned manner. Entering the room, the scent of Riley was still lingering. Laying on his bed, he smelt the perfume she wore. Everything reminded him of her, crying uncontrollably into the pillow- he felt more alone now than ever before.

*****

A week had gone by, Drake had kept his promise always checking in on Riley and Lucas. Whilst also getting to know Ella- slowly falling in love with her. Debating on whether to return to Cordonia or to give love a chance. Riley and Liam had too had kept to their promise, always talking on the phone at every opportunity given- both always feeling devastated when they had to hang up. Much to her surprise, she had sold her apartment quickly- now it was a waiting game for the deal to go through. Riley was working, it was dead as if she was stood in a morgue- most of the shift was spent daydreaming about Liam and their discussions over the phone, during this excruciating time apart. Thinking about her last call with Liam, knowing it was only going to be a matter of days before she could see him again.

“Hey.”

“Hello. Are you okay?”

“I’ve got some news. I’m homeless.”

“What do you mean?”

“The apartment sold. The couple loved it and are eager to move in as soon as possible.”

“That’s great news Riley.”

“Isn’t it? Also, I officially only have another week to work. Because I didn’t use all my annual leave- my manager has let me use that towards my notice.”

“So you’ll be back sooner than expected?”

“Yes. It’ll just be myself and Lucas though...Drake is taking an extended stay in New York.”

“I gathered when I spoke to him before. I’m thrilled that you’ll be coming back earlier. I have to go, I don’t want to but I have to. Another ball. I’ve missed you both so much- it’s not the same without you both.”

“We’ve missed you too.”

Unexpectedly Drake and Ella stormed through the door, looking panic stricken unbeknown to her. Before Riley could read their expressions, she poured a whiskey and a cocktail. Whenever her manager wasn’t around she would sneakily give her closest friends a drink on the house. As the two of them arrived at the bar, neither touched their drinks which was unusual- instead just looked at each other with sorrow in their eyes, holding back the tears, they didn’t know how to explain to Riley the news they had just received.

“Are you two going away for a kinky weekend away? What’s with all the bags?”

“Riley... Erm... I don’t know how to tell you this....”

“Drake don’t worry- you’re not my babysitter. I won’t tell Liam. It’s our little secret. Enjoy your time together.”

“Riley, you can’t tell Liam anyway.... he... there was an explosion and an attack on the palace....”

Riley’s brain faltered for a moment, every part of her froze as if her life was on pause. Realising that her brain needed to try and absorb the words that Drake had just said- maybe she misunderstood what he said, but looking at the two people in front of her realisation hit her, waking her up from the trance immediately.

“I... I... oh my god... I didn’t say that I loved him back... Drake you didn’t give me chance to... I can’t... breathe...” Feeling guilty that he had forced to abruptly end their painful goodbye- he needed to think positive even though he was dying deep down. Placing his hand on her shoulder, he told her to breathe- following his instructions and advise she felt slightly better.

“Riley, he’s alive. He’s fine. Well not fine but he’s alive. We have to go back to Cordonia now.”

“What happened to him?” She asked, barely able to ask that question. Tears were now uncontrollably running down her cheek- her mascara was smudged. Drake lent towards her holding her hands after wiping her tears.

“He had a forceful blow to his head, attempting to protect Kiara, who was stabbed.” Looking at the time, he knew Bastien would be here with Maxwell within the next few hours travelling on the the royal jet. “They think he may have become blind due to the explosion and the trauma. I’m so sorry Riley.”

[tcmmysheiby]

pretty woman : tommy shelby. [part one]

authors note; this has literally be in the making for months. took us a long time to get through it, edit and what not so please appreciate and send in feedback because it’s always appreciated. this is a series and will also be posted on wattpad if you wan’t to read it on there as well as on here! collab with @fireofmyloins19 so please go and read her work as well! FEEDBACK APPRECIATED! word count; 3.3k words. warnings; swearing, mention of drug use and prostitution obviously.

Madline was no stranger to men, satisfying their needs then kicking them out the door as methodically as a priest gave out his sermons; though there was something about this one that was different. Both consumed by their ghosts of war and the unruly lives it had burdened them with, had Tommy Shelby finally found his answer to happiness in the form of an unlikely angel, residing in the lonely corners where soldiers finally escape from war and where even God would be tempted to go to hell.

Tommy was no stranger to business soirees, full of high-class men and women who had made their way to the top through delinquency and deception; just like himself. It was usually a place for Tommy to get new clients or boast about how well the Shelby business was doing, but this one was dismal and full of monotonous toffs who were only there for the free champagne; conversing between themselves with counterfeit smiles and fake laughter. Arthur and John had slumped off somewhere in an attempt to court two young women, leaving Tommy alone to stand by the bay window, looking vacantly across the river Thames.  

“Your lady friend is on the phone,” one of the servers appeared holding a tray of champagne with a polite smile on his face. Tommy sighed before grabbing a glass of the beverage.

“Thank you” he turned his back to the man before responding, downing the contents in one go before making his way out the crowded room. As he walked through the hallways, he spotted John, an arm wrapped firmly round a young girl's waist, shadowing her against the wall with a toothpick in his mouth as he attempted to charm her into the nearest private room to satisfy his needs. Yet his efforts were quickly disturbed once he saw Tommy’s stone-cold expression.

“Who's irritated you?” John asked with a nudge of his cap, twirling the toothpick between his lips.

Tommy raised his eyebrows and shook his head. “No-one yet, but I’m sure I’m about to get an earful from Lillian,” Tommy paused and looked over at the woman still waiting patiently against the wall, “And you’ll be getting an earful off Esme if she finds out about this.”   

“Ah it’s a bit of fun Tom.” John turned to the girl with a wink, a mischievous smile plastered across his face. “Besides what she doesn’t know won’t hurt.”

Tommy scoffed before waving John away, wanting to get his conversation with Lillian over and done with. Once in the study he redialled the phone, not having to withstand the tedious ringtone for long before picked up.

“Lillian, what can I do for you this evening?” Tommy asked in a sickly-sweet tone, trying his hardest to mask his annoyance.

“Tommy? Jesus, surprised I managed to get through to you. It’s usually Lizzie Stark I get stuck talking to these days,” Lilian spat, resentment evident in her voice as she listened to Tommy’s monotone response.  

“She is my secretary, and I am a busy man. You know this.”

“Yes, well I’m getting rather fed up of it. We haven’t spoken in nearly a week and how do you think that makes me feel, Tommy? A phone call would be pleasant sometimes, just so I know that you are alive and well.”   

“I told you I would be in London for a while. I have some business to attend to Lillian so talking on the phone isn’t my top priority” he paused momentarily to see whether she spoke, only to hear her uneasy breathing down the receiver. “Have you packed for London yet? I believe that your train is booked for 10am tomorrow morning.”  

“No, I haven't, and I won’t be packing for the trip.”   

“And why’s that?” Tommy asked, surprised at Lilian's revelation.   

“Because I’m not coming, Tommy. If I come down then you will hardly speak with me anyway, and what is the point in that? I think I will stay here in Wolverhampton and work on my business. I do not need you and we both know you certainly don’t need me, we simply looked good together for business.” Lillian remarked, no longer kind towards the man she had once adored.  

“I need you this week and you know it.”   

“Exactly Tommy, you just need me for this week, for your business.” she sighed, genuine upset in her tone, “Find someone else then, it’s not my problem anymore. Would you like me to move out of the flat?”   

“Are you finishing this?” Tommy asked, jaw clenched as his eyes fixed on the old wooden table before him. He wasn’t surprised that it had come to this, it had been in the making for a while. Himself and Lillian were not compatible in the slightest.  

“I am.”   

“Then yes, I would like you to move out. I’ll get one of my men to come and pick up the keys. Thank you for your help.”

Without another word Tommy dropped the receiver back onto the hook and swiftly made his way back through the halls, thankful John was no longer lingering against the wall ready to bombard him with questions; although there were no guesses where he had gone once Tommy passed the lone room at the end of the corridor, the shrieks from the opposite side of the door lucky to be drowned out by the liveliness of the grand drawing room that followed. He entered the bustling room with haste, weaving his way through the crowd and giving the odd nod to people whom he knew to be of potential importance to the company, yet not bothering to stop and talk, his only focus now being to make it to the exit without being collared by Arthur or worse, Polly.

He made his way down the stairs, picking up a brisk jog as he muttered his greetings to the people only just arriving, not a single flicker of guilt that he could be passing up on profitable business deals in his absence - the only two things consuming his mind now being hard liquor and the company of a nameless woman. With the impending meeting with Alfie Solomons now playing on his mind and the plans he had put into place being ruined he needed to clear his head, and he was determined to do it the only way he knew how.

Just as he had past the main doors and thankfully reached the comfort of his car, he heard Arthur’s voice bellowing over the engine, closing his eyes momentarily with a sigh of frustration before stepping back onto the gravelled drive.  

“Arthur,” he greeted him.

“Where the bloody hell do you think you’re going? We need you up there it’s rifling with the toffs ready to make deals with their pockets full of cash, you were right about them being keen in London!”

“I’m sure you can handle a bit of business without me Arthur, I’ve got somewhere I need to be.”

“Oh yeah and would that somewhere be a business deal that requires your cash.” Arthur jeered as he took a swig from his hip flask stumbling backward slightly.  

Tommy didn’t react to the remark, opening the door to re-enter the vehicle and climbing up behind the wheel. “I have business with Mr. Solomons which will be carried out over the next few days, I’ll be staying at the Ritz should you need to contact me. In the meantime, I trust you and John shall be able to carry out the running's of The Eden?”

“Absolutely Tommy.” Arthur slurred holding the hip flask towards him as though to cheers to their new business venture, “Me and John have got it covered don’t you worry, already found ourselves a few nice ladies to keep the punters entertained.”

Tommy scoffed, shaking his head and slamming the door shut before bidding his brother goodnight.

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

The strong smell of alcohol was the first thing that hit Madeline’s senses as she walked into the sleazy club where her friend, Annie, was likely to be found. Plenty of the men stared at her without a care as she passed, the alluring outfit she wore causing them to lick their lips as their minds filled with smutty debaucheries though Madeline brushed them off; nothing she wasn’t use to. She was there for one reason and only reason only. She hurried to the top floor finding Annie cooped up in a corner with her petite body draped over her pimp, a vulgar man that Annie strangely seemed to adore.

“Rent,” Madeline said as she held out her hand in front of Annie who was evidently off her face on a combination of spirits and narcotics.  

“Tomorrow?” Annie said with a wide smile, hoping that her charm would win Madeline as it seemed to every time.   

“No, tonight,” Madeline replied with a straight face, her hand still in front of Annie’s. “I can only just afford to pay my half of the rent and you can’t keep expecting me to pay yours as well, I’m not your mother.”  

With that Annie’s pimp was quick to get to his feet, shaking Annie off him into a heap on the cracked leather couch as he prepared to kick Madeline out of the club. Annie grabbed onto his arm with haste, shaking her head to warn him off using her best persuasive puppy dog eyes.

“Come with me, Madeline.” she stood hesitantly, holding out her hand for Madeline to take.

Madeline followed Annie to the bottom bar, trying her best to ignore the almost sickening stench of cigarette smoke that would surely linger to her body for the next few days. As she passed one table, Madeline swiped a lone drink away and downed it in one go, she was going to need it to get through the night.

Annie leaned against the bar and clicked her fingers, the bar man instantly moving to grab a couple of drinks. “Pay my rent for me this month and I’ll pay you back as soon as I can.”  

Madeline shook her head in disbelief. “You won’t though, Annie, you never do. I love you to death but you’re going to have to start looking after yourself soon because I simply can’t afford to look after you, as well as myself.”

Annie scoffed; Madeline wouldn’t even have a job at the brothel if it wasn’t for her. “We will just have to get more clients in then, won’t we? Come on.” Annie moved and placed her hands-on Madeline’s cheeks as she smiled up at her. “Just pay my rent for a couple more months and I’ll sort you out with some real good deals. Anthony has got some new Tokyo coming in that I’m sure you would love.”

“I don’t want any drugs off Anthony, okay? And, a couple of months? I might not even be here by next week if I’m lucky enough.”  

Annie removed her hands, her expression turning to confusion as she laughed faintly, not wanting to believe what she was hearing. Madeline was the only person in the brothel that she got a long with, plus she helped her out in desperate times of need. “What are you going on about, Madeline? You didn’t tell me…”  

Madeline had planned to tell Annie at a more convenient time but it looked as though the truth was coming out there and then. “I’ve managed to bag myself a job interview but I probably won’t get it, so don’t worry about it too much.”  

“Oh, I’m worried - “  

“Worried about how you are going to pay your rent if I end up getting out of the brothel?” Madeline retorted, her face instantly softening nevertheless. She didn’t want to leave Annie alone, but this job would give a new start which was what Madeline needed more than anything.  

“Where’s the job at?”  

“It doesn’t matter where. Like I said, I might not even get it.” Madeline smiled at the barman who brought her over a gin and tonic before quickly necking it down in one, needing to get back to the brothel and earn some serious money if she was going to have to pay the full rent; Annie leaving her with no choice. “I have to go. Be careful with him,” Madeline warned, referring to the short-tempered pimp no doubt twitching with impatience upstairs at Annie’s absence, “he’s dangerous.”  

“What about my rent?” Annie shouted after Madeline who was walking towards the exit.  

“I’ll sort it.”

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

Tommy’s eyes trailed around the room carefully, taking in every detail before him causing a heavy sigh to seep from his throat at the anything but appealing welcome. It certainly wasn’t his usual class of establishment, the battered moss green furniture with obvious tears in its material having seen better days. A simmering layer of fresh cigarette smoke welcomed him into the room, noticeably clinging to the air in the few areas of the room where the low lights stood. He stepped further into the room nonetheless, clearing his throat to gain the attention of the plump woman slumped in a wooden chair behind the counter, a newspaper open in front of her.

“What can I do you for sir?” she folded the paper with no rush, throwing it to the sticky carpet beside her and pulling herself to her feet.

“A woman. Any, it doesn't matter. Just a woman,” he began to dip into his pocket to retrieve a cigarette, striking a match with a flick of the wrist. He could feel the woman’s stern eyes watching his every move, waiting for him to finish before she spoke.

“Right well, all the girls that are here are busy right now so you’re just going to have to take a seat over there and wait for one to come out to greet you. I’m sure one won’t be long... they never are.” she gave a smile that came across more of a grimace, not bothering to hide her impatience of having to deal with Tommy’s custom. He studied her face harshly, possibly for a few seconds longer than left her feeling comfortable as the smug smile dropped and she shifted uneasily under his gaze. He drew his eyes away, swallowing hard and savouring a long drag of his cigarette before responding.

“Do I look like I have the time to wait?” he raised an eyebrow as though to indicate he was waiting for a response, though nothing came from her mouth which now lay slightly ajar, a small stutter all she managed as she tripped over her words.

“I’ll take him.” Madeline’s alluring cockney charm filled the tense silence.  

She sauntered through the entrance and straight past Tommy, not bothering to take a look at him while she held out her hand behind her expecting him to take hold and follow. Her petit heels tapping against the floor were the only footsteps ringing through the room causing her to turn once she reached the entrance to the dimly lit hallway.

“Are you coming or what?” she questioned, the irritation noticeable in her voice but she was quick to follow it with a sweet smile, knowing she couldn’t let her troubles get in the way of business. She wiggled her fingers and extended her arm out slightly further, successfully getting him to finally step forward and take her small hand in his. Madeline was quick to guide him down the hall to her designated room before he could change his mind.

There was an all too familiar silence for Madeline as they entered, the door slamming shut behind the pair while she began to kick off her heels. She settled onto the edge of the bed with a leg crossed over the other, carefully taking in his appearance for the first time which left her slightly bemused, the confusion obviously plastered across her nimble features. She was used to the grotesque, middle-aged, intoxicated men, the lonely husbands and the innocent young men whom war hadn’t touched, far too eager to get their leg up; but she was not used to this. He was by far one of the most handsome men she had seen in and out of the establishment, finding herself smiling at the thought she would have something to gossip about with Annie in the morning. Madeline drew her hands to the dress quickly pulling it over her head.   

“No,” Tommy said as he raised his hand, signalling for Madeline to stop undressing. She was left exposed her in slip, glancing up at Tommy with bewilderment. “I don’t even know your name.”  

Madeline held back a laugh as she shook her head. “When has that ever mattered?” She believed that Tommy was joking but when he remained silent, she sat back, her head tilted to the side slightly as though to question his intentions. “Okay then, what would you like it to be?” Tommy raised one eyebrow showing Madeline that he just wanted to get on with the conversation. “My name is Madeline.”  

“I’m Tommy,” he replied, still unsure of what to do. “Would you like to talk?”  

Madeline couldn’t believe what she was hearing. It was usually a case of get naked, have sex, take the money and go; the only talking involved to negotiate how much she charged an hour. Still, she nodded once, patting the velvet bedding gesturing for Tommy to join her.  

“So…” Tommy trailed off, why was he acting like such a fool? He had always been a ladies-man so he couldn’t understand why he was suddenly acting like it was his first time. “How much do you charge?”  

Madeline looked him up and down with a smirk, her eyes instantly going to the pocket watch that she could see in his possession and the expensive looking ring wrapped around his finger. He was a wealthy man, she could tell that from the lavish suit that he wore, the type of suit she only saw high-class business men wear when she went down to the posh end of London in hopes of finding well-to-do clients.

“How long do you want me for?” Madeline moved one hand to Tommy’s thigh, slowly moving her palm against the fabric of his trousers. Tommy watched every action with the slight flicker of a smirk on his face.

“The whole night.”  

Madeline hadn’t expected that answer, she anticipated a couple of hours at most. “£5 for the whole night, no less.”  

Tommy took a deep breath before nodding. “I can do that.”  

“I’m sure you can,” she said seductively as she pushed Tommy back so he was laying down on the bed, his back pressed against the sheets that had seen and heard so much. “I don’t kiss,” she mumbled, pressing her finger against Tommy’s lips. “I never have and never will so don’t try it otherwise you will be straight out of that door and I will still charge you £5.” Madeline moved so she was straddling Tommy’s waist, her legs on either side of him as she trailed her hands up and down his chest. “Now, what would you like to do first?”  

“I want to talk,” Tommy replied, blatantly embarrassed by his request. Even though it killed him to do so, Tommy moved his hands to Madeline’s hips and flipped her off him, her hair falling against the sheets as she watched Tommy sit up and light another cigarette. “Do you want one?” he offered as he pulled another from the tin.  

“Please.”  

Tommy handed the matches and cigarette to Madeline before observing the bedroom closer. It wasn’t much but he had heard a lot worse from his brothers. “Why are you a prostitute?”  

Madeline blinked, taken aback by his bluntness. Not many had chosen to question her on this particular aspect of her life before. “I prefer to call myself ‘a woman of the night’,” she replied with a giggle, half-serious, half-not.

Tommy chuckled as he took note of some photographs that had been turned the other way so the punters couldn’t look at them. “They both mean the same thing.”  

“Why are you in London?” She questioned in a bid to change the conversation, she didn’t want to talk about her personal life, especially not to client. “We had a girl who worked here a few months ago with that exact same accent, Birmingham she was from. You’re quite far away from home.”  

“I’m here on business.”  

Madeline struck a match, bringing it to the cigarette he had kindly tokened her and blowing the smoke into the small space between them.  

“And is this business?”   

“No,” Tommy chuckled, watching her roll the cigarette between her rosy lips slowly, the tip of her tongue peeping from the corner as she gave her signature smile, “this is pleasure.”

[themissingmarvel]

Tell Him (Part 2)

((A/N: Ok so like... as usual Endgame spoilers galore. I can’t make a one shot right now so here’s part two of Tell Him. If you want to catch up, I’ll link you ‘cause why not.

Part 1

Pairing: Steve Rogers x powered!Reader

Warnings: Swearing

Word Count: 3k ))

“Where’s here?” You piped up, putting away your phone and earbuds into your pocket and getting out of the car. The people around you looked... average. There wasn’t anything special about them or the venue.  The men were silent as they began what felt like a somber walk towards the doors. You were desperately looking around for a sign of what was going on but there was a pit in your stomach that this wasn’t entirely ok. Was it?

Inside was well lit and there were folding chairs in a circle. Sam and Bucky sat down and you were getting a sense of what was happening. Some folks were getting coffee in the back and some were talking as you took a seat beside your metal armed friend.  Leaning in to whisper you frowned, “Buck, you have to tell me what this is,” you quietly demanded.  He glanced at Sam who only nodded before he turned back to you, “I didn’t want to tell you because I knew you wouldn’t come. It’s a support group for those who were dusted. Sam and I come out here so we don’t run into anyone we know. But it’s been good. I think it’ll help you.”   For a moment you were offended. How dare he. How did he know what was best for you? And you were doing just fine, damnit. Just fine.  Standing up abruptly but keeping your voice quiet you glared, “I don’t need to be here. I’m not like these people. I’m over it, ok? I don’t even remember what happened.” Grabbing your arm Bucky yanked you back into the seat, “Bullshit, Y/N! You’re not ok. And you do remember. We all do. You need this. I know you still go through it. You beat a punching bag until you bled and broke a glass because you couldn’t keep it together. There’s no shame in it but you need to stop pretending like everything is fine while you fall apart.” You got quiet as you sat, watching people walk, some talking. You remained quiet as you stayed in your seat.  For Steve.  “Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for being here today.” A middle aged man spoke, dressed in a business casual attire. He looked important.  Everyone sort of nodded and took their seats, looking around with an eerie quiet you couldn’t place. The man who had spoken looked at you and smiled. It wasn’t an average smile, though. It looked almost... solemn.  He clasped his hands together and leaned forward a bit, “Looks like we have a new face. Would you like to introduce yourself?” He was kind. He meant well.  Rubbing your arm nervously you looked at the floor and stayed quiet a moment before looking back up, “I’m Y/N. I was... dusted, I guess. I’m not sure why I’m here.” Everyone murmured a welcome and the man who had spoken nodded, “Thank you for coming. I know it’s not easy to open up about this. I suppose none of us know why we’re here. Part of why we come.” You were a bit shocked at his response, looking around at the people in the circle who nodded and murmured just as they had when you introduced yourself.  “How have you been since coming back?” He asked sincerely. He wanted to know. They all did. You could feel Bucky’s warm hand on your back as a reassurance. You knew you needed to talk. You didn’t want to but you had to. You wanted to tell Steve but you weren’t ready. He wouldn’t get it. How would you begin? “Hurt.” You looked down.  “You’re hurt?” He chimed up.  “Yeah I mean... I was gone for a moment but that moment was five years, you know? The world moved on without me. People moved on without me. People I loved. I missed birthdays and holidays. I missed hugs and connections. I feel that separation every time I see someone who wasn’t dusted and I see that damn guilt and pity on their faces.” It was spilling out now, watching as people nodded their heads in agreement. They understood.  Taking a risk, knowing the two men were with you, you continued, “What pisses me off most is I dusted in the... forest (Wakanda) with my friends (the Avengers) near me. There’s this guy though. Always had a thing for him. Even as I was slipping away I wished I’d told him I loved him. Now that I’m back I still can’t. He’s not with anyone or anything like that,” you waved your hand, “but I just feel like so much has changed. It’s not like it was before. I want to tell him but I can’t and it pisses me off.” You’d been clenching your fists, letting go once you realized what you were doing.  A female voice chimed up and you looked over. A woman in her mid thirties was looking sad as she spoke, “When I came back, my daughter didn’t know who I was. My husband had remarried and this little seven-year-old I had called my own didn’t know who I was. My husband had moved on but it had been seconds. The world moved on and left us behind to pick up the pieces.” She looked you in the eyes and suddenly you felt seen. 

From there stories came forward. There was a teen who had watched his friends age and knew that once they decided to finally go to college, he’d be five years behind them. He’d lose them. There was a man who had lost his daughter as she’d developed cancer, but the doctor’s and researchers had dusted and she’d been left without proper care. Thanos thought he had the answers but halving everything meant literally everything. The best and the brightest went out at the same rate as the average folks. People that were needed vanished without a trace.

When the meeting ended people stood and milled, but the woman who had spoken after you approached, kind features and an aged sweater around her shoulders, “You should tell him, you know. What if he feels the same way?”

It was a surprising comment from a total stranger, and you were shocked, “I- I mean I guess. It’s complicated.” You frowned.

She smirked, “It’s always complicated. There’s never a good time. But you’re getting a second chance at living a life. Don’t waste it.” Briefly she patted your arm before turning and walking away leaving you to watch as she left.

Turning back to Bucky and Sam you nodded, “Let’s go home.”

The three of you chatted in the car, more casually, and you had left out your earbuds. You were in the back with Sam driving and Bucky sitting shotgun. The group had been admittedly good and it had felt oddly relieving to sit with a room full of people all remembering their final moments that had been years for some and yet moments for them. It hadn’t occurred to you that people had simply vanished in their sleep or what others would miss in their time gone. You all had lost something, even those left behind.

Walking back into the Tower, deciding on staying in the city while Strange and Stark did a Wakandan tour, the three of you were greeted by an overly excited Peter Parker, “Hey guys! I didn’t know where anyone was so I just came in, Mr. Stark gave me the password and stuff. Mr. Stark says I can do training here when I’m done with my homework. I hope it’s OK but I made a sandwich. Am I talking too much?” He took a breath and you smirked.

Bucky rolled his eyes and Sam grinned, the two walking away as you ruffled Peter’s hair with a playful smirk, “You always talk too much, Parker. Did you finish your work?” You watched as he fixed his hair and made his way to the table in the living room where an empty plate sat with two closed books. The TV was on and there was some news on mute.

Peter had been this kid you’d taken a liking to when Tony had taken him under his wing. He was like a little brother to you and you couldn’t help but feel a sort of protective stance about him. He seemed to like you as well, however, but you were his second when “Mr. Stark” wasn’t around, “Yeah like… an hour ago. But I don’t know where the gym is and I don’t wanna get lost. Hey! Wanna go a few rounds? I won’t use the suit or anything we can just fight!”

It felt a little heartbreaking, seeing him with a smile, as you remembered. It was years ago but you were the one asking Natasha to spar with you, telling her no powers I promise! Just show me those awesome kicks! Now he was asking you to train and who were you to deny him the chance? He was good. He was small and he was agile as hell. Stark had rightly pointed out that he relied heavily on his webbing and abilities and had reminded him that it wouldn’t always be there. Tony had learned that the hard way.

You listened to Peter go on and on about how school was going and an upcoming trip he had planned. He talked about MJ as usual and you remembered what it was like to have a crush. Now being an adult just meant being in love with a man who probably just pitied you at this point.

“What’s wrong, Y/N? Worried I’m gonna win this time?” Parker bounced ahead of you a bit, walking backwards as you realized suddenly you were frowning.

Forcing a smile you shook your head, “You’re 0 for 10 at this point, kid. And I’m fine. You won’t be when we’re done, though,” Peter watched as you grabbed at him, snatching the poor child’s wrist, yanking him forward, and essentially clotheslining him to the floor with a knee to the chest.

He looked shook as all hell, staring up at you, “Lesson one, I know I know. Never let your guard down.” Peter adjusted himself as you let him up, helping him to his feet. It was a nice distraction to be able to help Peter and know you’d do some training. He had some gear here, now that Tony was taking a closer liking to the kid. He’d always liked him, you knew, but he had a second chance now. Wasn’t that what the woman had said to you…?

Walking into the gym you had changed before Peter, aware the poor kid was probably maneuvering in whatever getup Stark had put out for him. You were wearing sports leggings, dark grey, and a form fitting sport tank top. Your feet hit the floor, surprised a bit to see Steve then going to town on one of the reinforced punching bags Tony had set up for him. He was covered in sweat and you could tell he’d been here for a little while. He didn’t seem to train the way the rest of the team did, but he was always down for a group fight.

“What’d that punching bag ever do to you, old man?” You walked over to Steve, feeling your heart racing in your chest but pushing forward.

He stopped, panting a bit and smiling as he saw you, “Sure didn’t call me old man, for starters,” his smile turned into a grin.

You blushed and shook your head, “You should practice with Parker when he gets in. One New Yorker to another, you know?”

Steve stepped away and smiled at you, “I’d rather go at it with you, to be honest.”

Your face turned scarlet. So did his. His eyes widened and he held his hands up, “Oh! No no, not like that! I mean, not that I wouldn’t- I mean, no, shit!” He was cursing and you were red. You both were.

It was almost comical to watch Peter walk over with his own gym clothes on looking at both of you as though he’d just missed the punchline, “Woah, Cap! Mr. Stark said you don’t like that language!”

Rubbing the back of his head nervously Steve looked away, “I uh, I should go. Raincheck on the sparring,” he turned quickly and made his way out of the gym leaving you and Peter standing.

“Hey, why’s your face all red?” Peter looked at you curiously.

You took a breath and rolled your head back to look at the ceiling, “I’ll tell you when you’re older.”

“I was in love with a woman, back before everyone vanished. She had this smile, you know? A smile that could light up a room. And she was gorgeous, funny, sweet, brave… she was everything. But I never told her how I felt. I always thought I’d have time. We all thought we had time.” Steve had opened up to his support group years ago, back when it was in its infancy. He had opened up about you to people who had no idea who you were. Maybe he could have told Bucky, or even Sam, but his two closest friends were gone and Natasha had more pressing business now.

As Steve made himself dinner, hours after his awkward encounter, he remembered one of the galas that Tony had thrown before Thanos was even in the picture. He’d been dragged to it by Wanda who insisted he’d enjoy himself. Truthfully his driving force was knowing that you’d be there. A friend, a good friend, you’d been a support to the man who often felt out of time and out of place. He was glad that Tony had recruited you after seeing you help in the Battle of New York. Well. Recruited you after you’d run to him for safety from Hydra.

He remembered watching as you walked through the door, dress hanging off your body as though it was created just for you, hair done up, makeup not too much but enough to accentuate your already perfect features. He remembered staring as you smiled over at him and he remembered falling, tumbling, stumbling his way into love with you. All it had taken was a gentle wave and a casual stroll and he knew that he was done for.

The timing had never been right, though. Always some battle, some fight. Always something to stop him from taking your hand. And here he was, five years after he lost you, and he was struggling to find the words. Your pain was palpable, and he wanted to take it from you, remove it from your system and chuck it out the window. Holding you as you cried was the best he could do, but if it helped, he swore to himself he’d do it every damn night if he had to. It had been clear, then, why he had to stay with you. When you’d vanished with Sam and Bucky he’d wanted to ask where but knew enough to respect your privacy and theirs. Besides, you’d come back looking almost relieved. Wherever you went it had clearly helped you.

Looking up, Steve was snapped from his thoughts as he watched you wander in, clothes changed and looking perfect as always. He was biased.

“Hey, Y/N, sorry about before I uh… I don’t know what happened,” he looked down at the antipasto salad he was making.

You smiled, saddling up beside him as you watched him make dinner, “No worries, Steve. It happens.” You shrugged and took a piece of his salami without asking, knowing that you at least had the rapport to do something like that.

Steve liked seeing you this way, more at ease, and it was different than you’d been before, “How’d training with Peter go?” He turned his head and began adding more food, making more for you without even being asked.

You shrugged and turned so you were facing him now, leaning against the counter, “Fine. Kid has talent. I worry about him out there on his own and stuff, but he seems OK. Tony told me his suits are pretty durable and meant to protect him. I still think a lesson with Captain America would help, though,” you grinned and went to take another piece of food.

Steve poked your hand with the fork and you withdrew feigning hurt, “I think he’s got a pretty good teacher already.”

He smiled at you, sincerely this time, and you smiled back.

Tell him! He’s right there!

“Steve, I wanted to talk to you about something, actually. Do you think-“

It was then a ringing noise went off, coming from your pocket, wincing as it did. It was Stark’s ring, of course, and there was a look of disappointment on Steve’s face as you stepped back from the counter. Pulling out the phone you placed it on the counter, watching as Tony’s head ‘appeared’. He had his sunglasses on, of course, and a look of smugness you found oddly endearing, “Is Rogers… making food?” He squinted.

You rolled your eyes, stepping in the way of poor Steve who sighed heavily and shook his head, “What is it Tony? Calling to make sure your place isn’t burned to the ground? I promise we’re keeping New York safe.”

Steve listened to you and Tony banter, Strange’s voice occasionally rising in the background. He made his food quietly and made a plate for you which he left on the counter, knowing you’d turn to see it. Silently he made his way out of the kitchen, wondering what it was you’d wanted to talk about. He had hoped for what it could be and wondered if maybe you had felt the same. He wished he could scoop you into his arms and as he walked into the living room, resigned to eat alone, he could only think, next time… tell her next time.

( @skymoonandstardust @spookydefendordreamer @little-red-83)

[bat-losers-inc]

Kintsugi: Chapter 7

Summary: Final Crisis/Red Robin AU. Dick admits Tim to a psychiatric facility after Bruce is lost in time. Jason finds him suffering at the hands of a Scarecrow-copycat and breaks him out. While safe in Jason’s apartment, Tim still struggles with panic attacks and drug withdrawal. At a loss for what to do, Jason calls Roy Harper.

Pairings: Jason Todd & Tim Drake, Jason Todd & Dick Grayson, Roy Harper & Jason Todd.

“I think it’s time that you go,” said Roy, placing a firm hand on Dick’s shoulder in a way that made it clear Dick would find himself on the other side of that door soon, whether he walked there on his own accord or not.

Still, Dick continued to plead his case. “All I want to do is help.”

Jason shook his head.  “It’s a little late for that now, don’t you think?”

He didn’t know when his previous show of angry bravado had faded to a weariness for this constant in-fighting. Maybe it was when he’d had a good long look at Dick’s stricken expression after he’d delivered the news about the emancipation papers. An indescribable look had flickered across his features as the knowledge settled into his bones… the knowledge that Tim might amputate his entire relationship with him— like Dick was a diseased limb that could kill him if left to fester and spread. Jason knew the feeling intimately and it felt like a special kind of death.

Suddenly, he felt torn in two. Where did his loyalty lie?

With Tim? Dick? Himself? There was his survival instinct kicking in again; telling him to fuck them all and run for the hills.

Jason hung back and watched on as Dick took a reluctant step backwards as Roy crowded him, forcing him step by step towards the exit. Dick didn’t even waste his energy trying to change Roy’s mind, his whole attention was focused on Jason as if he knew that he was the only real person in the room with the power to stop his ejection. It was true, he could stop this if he wanted— sit down with Dick and talk it out, but Jason felt powerless to force his own body into movement, stuck fast where he stood unable to make up his mind whether to help or hinder his brother.

Would hearing him out betray Tim?

“Just let me explain my side of things before you shut me out, please?”

For all the shitty things that Dick had done to him in the past, Jason knew that, even when wrong, those deeds were done with good intentions. Maybe it was because of that that Jason never had the heart to watch Dick beg.

He found his voice. “Roy, wait.”

Roy looked over his shoulder, hand still pushing against Dick’s upper body. “You sure you want to do this?”

Jason would only be leading himself into the possibility of future manipulation if he took Tim’s side on every issue without question. Tim had already shown them that he knew how to play on their concerns for his well-being in order to get drugs from them. It hadn’t worked, and Tim had been quick to back off and save face, but just the fact that he’d done it with such guile on his first try had hit Jason like a blow to the head.

“Yeah.”

Roy dropped his hand away and Dick stood patiently as he waited for Roy to back up and give him some breathing room.

“Can we go inside and talk about this?” asked Dick.

“No. Not while Tim’s in there. I don’t want him to have to hear this.”

Dick’s brow creased. “You don’t want him to hear my side of the story?”

Jason knuckled his temple in an attempt to ease the tension building up there.

“Honestly, hearing it won’t mean shit to him. All of the apologies you have to give won’t mean shit to him. Because they won’t change what happened as a result of your actions. Stop apologizing. Learn from your mistakes. Live with it.”

“You say that like it’s so easy.”

Jason shrugged and said nothing, choosing instead to stub the toe of his boot against the grease splattered floor. It wasn’t an easy thing to do and Dick knew that, so there was really nothing more he could say. He wasn’t going to lie.

“You weren’t there…” Dick trailed off just as quickly as he’d started.

He threw his arms out at his side, limbs heavy with such a visible weariness that it made Jason feel like he’d just watched him walk into Gotham River until his head disappeared under it’s dark water. Dick was drowning, that much was clear.

He waited patiently for Dick to gathering himself and continue, stewing with his own uneasy thoughts as the silence dragged on.

“You weren’t there to see what is was like after Bruce’s funeral. I had to take over being Batman and it was clear that Damian needed the mentorship that came with being Robin. I felt horrible for taking that away from Tim. Horrible! But…  Damian didn’t just lose Batman. He also lost his father… I figured Tim would understand that and come around to creating a new persona with time.”

“It seemed like he’d started to with Red Robin. So why didn’t you leave him be?”

“Because he came back to the manor with some crazy theory that Bruce wasn’t actually dead but lost.”

“Lost? Like, what,” asked Jason, “in the woods?”

“Washed up on a desert island like Green Arrow?” asked Roy clearly happy for the change in conversation.

“No, like lost in space and time.” Dick threw up his hands. “I mean, it was absolutely insane! We buried his bones in the family plot. There was physical evidence— forensic reports for Tim to read— and still he kept going on about it. He’d practically barricaded himself inside his apartment. He wouldn’t come back to the manor—”

“So you thought committing him to a psych ward was the next best step?” asked Jason.

“Yes! I made the choice to give him the psychological care he needed.”

“Maybe he didn’t need psychological help! Maybe he just needed someone to listen to him.”

Dick blinked at him. “Are you saying you believe him?”

“We live in a world of aliens, metahumans, and lazarus pits. Does Tim’s theory have some very large, adult male body-size holes in it? Yeah, one hundred percent.  Is it impossible?” He racked a hand through his hair. “Honestly, I don’t know. But, I would have at least listened to him and it was shitty of you to not even call me and ask for help.”

“That guilt trip works both ways, Jason.” said Dick. “You could have reached out just as easily as I could.”

“He’s got a point there, Jaybird.”

“Yeah. Now look where it’s gotten us.”

Dick nodded and cast his gaze about the room, but whatever he was looking for his eyes never settled on it. Finally, he looked between Jason and Roy and extended his hand to Jason. “Truce? For Tim’s sake.”

Jason stared at his hand for a long moment, weighing out the options in his head. He’d settled on his answer and was ready to state it— whether it was the right decision or not— when he was blinded by a blur of denim fabric and curly hair as a woman fell into him. He caught her by the shoulders and righted her, hands lingering for a minute to allow her to totter back on her chunky heels.

She straightened up and took a step back.

“Daisy?” said Jason.

Daisy adjusted the tight dress she wore beneath her oversized denim jacket so that it rested to mid thigh. She pushed her blonde curls out of her eyes and flashed him a smile. “Hey, Jay. Sorry for running into you, literally, but it’s a bit of an emergency. Well, I think it is, anyway.”

“What are you talking about?”

“I’m sorry—” Dick shouldered his way in between them. “Who is this and why is she in your safehouse?”

“Weren’t you listening?” said Roy. “This is Daisy.”

“Hey there, Daise,” Roy flashed her a smile and jutted a finger in Dick’s direction. “this is our friend, Dick. Don’t worry he’s in the night business too.”

Daisy gave Dick an appreciative once over. “My kind or yours?”

Roy crowed with laughter. “Ours. But you hear that, Dickie? If this line of work doesn’t pan out for you, you always have something to fall back on.”

Dick looked less than amused. “Yeah, hilarious. What is she doing here?”

“Daisy and I have a mutually beneficial business arrangement.”

“How’s that?”

“Well,” said Jason. “I make a habit of keeping an eye on Daisy and the other girls who work this neighborhood. You know, run off any troublemakers. In exchange for my services, Daisy reports any suspicious activity she sees in the area.”

Daisy gave Jason’s shoulder a playful shove. “Yeah and sometimes he climbs into my place through the window at four in the morning and asks me to cauterize his bullet wounds with a bottle of vodka and my best curling iron.”

“Oh, real professional, Jason!”

“Yeah we’ve gotta be, don’t we? ‘Cause I mean this boy’s got thighs that make me wanna…” She trailed off with a giggle.  “Well... let’s just say I’ve seen more of this boy’s skin than half of my clients combined.”

Jason ducked his head with a smile. He thought he heard Daisy offering her specialty medical services to Dick (no curling iron service fee included) in an sly undertone to Dick but couldn’t be sure. For all at once Daisy turned back and punched him hard in the shoulder.

“Wait! What am I even doing right now? I totally forgot what I came here to tell you!”

“Ow. Well what is it?” asked Jason, with slightly less warmth than before as he rubbed his sore shoulder.

“That kid that’s staying with you? Saw him climb down your fire escape and head off towards the nearest subway. I could tell even from a distance that he didn’t look in a good way— kinda sweaty and wrung out. ”

Jason’s heart jumped to his throat, all humor dashed in an instant. He spun at once to find Roy, who was already halfway off the stool he’d been sitting on. “Go check the rooms now.”

Roy flew around the railing and up the steps into the safehouse, the door flying open under his hand. Jason tried to gather his thoughts but it was hard to concentrate when the door banged against its frame like a drum playing the offbeat to the rhythmic pound of blood pumping through his ears. He tried to think of the last time he remembered Tim being in the room with them, but he’d been so focused on yelling at Dick in that moment that he’d barely noticed the kid slip out behind him.

“How long ago was this?”

Daisy tossed her hair out of her face. “Uh, maybe five minutes ago now?”

Roy came whipping around the corner, catching himself hurriedly against the stairway rail. “Gone.”

“I’m going out after him.” said Dick.

“Wait— What?” Jason shouted at his retreating back. “You don’t even know where he’s going!”

He was already gone. Behind him Roy was questioning Daisy further.

“You sure it was towards the bridge?”

Daisy nodded.  

“Ok. If he’s heading downtown on the subway where’s the nearest place he could score?”

“How do we even know he’s taking the subway? He could be looking for a dealer on the street for all we know! God, this is a fucking mess!”

Roy shook his head. “Unlikely. He doesn’t know the area and who deals nearby. More likely that he’s going to an established dealing ground.”

“I don’t know what he knows or doesn’t know,” snapped Jason. “Truth is; I don’t know that kid half as well as I like to think I do.”

“Hey,” Roy snapped his fingers sharply in Jason’s face. “Stop losing your shit. If I’m wrong and he’s on the streets there’s a chance Dick will find him. If I’m right, then we go and stop him before he makes a big mistake. So, think Jason! I know you’ve got feelers out on every shady dealer and scoring ground south of the Bowery. He’s a minor who’s strapped for cash and sick from withdrawal. Where’s he heading?”

Jason pressed his palm to his eyes and thought hard. “The Iceberg Lounge. Penguin’s club brings in a large crowd of criminals from all backgrounds. He’s got the best chance of scoring there.”

Roy ruffled Jason’s hair. “Let’s go bring him home, Jaybird.”

[dr0wning-in-hell]

Return pt 2 - Steve Rogers

summary : Y/N has been returned to the Avengers Compound after being held captive by HYDRA for over a year. Steve blames himself for Y/N being on the brink of death and moving on when she was still out there. The team just waits for her to wake up, so they can help her recover.

word count : 2.5k+

warnings : angst, mentions of torture, mentions or rape, PTSD, anxiety, literally just angst, just a sprinkle of fluff

pairing / characters : Steve Rogers x reader, Tony Stark, Wanda Maximoff, Vision, mentions of T’Challa and Shuri, Natasha Romanoff, mentions of Pepper Pots,

Prompt : “Steves dating the reader and they go missing, after a weeks of searching the team gives up and accepts that the reader is dead, Steve starts dating someone else, and then a year later on a mission, he finds the reader badly injured in a hydra base?? One shot, or if it’s easier in parts? I’ve asked quite a few people but it’s always nice to see different versions if people do this request more than once anyway 😂 “ - @thefandomplace​

A/N : sorry it has taken me so long to write the second part to this! I really hope you all enjoy this! also this is kind of short, but like sad so yeah.

read the first part here

new masterlist | requests | prompt list

It had been days since Y/N was brought back to the Avengers Compound, and in those few days she had nearly died a total of three times. The first time was because of blood loss, and she reacted badly to the blood given to her. Second time was because of her broken ribs and them basically crushing her lungs and heart. The third time was because someone tripped over one of the many chords that was attached to her body. After the third time no one except doctors and nurses were allowed in her room.

Steve stayed outside, looking into her room from the glass. Every time he looked at her his heart broke and the guilt of leaving her there in that HYDRA facility ate away at him. He barely ate, barley drank anything or even slept. Everyone tried to get him something, tried to get him to rest, but he never did. He just stood and looked at Y/N, his eyes never leaving her. Tony had told Steve that because of the gunshot to Y/N’s spine, she would never be able to walk on her own again. Steve had asked him to call King T’Challa and his little sister so that they could bring their advanced technology, but Tony had already called the King of Wakanda and asked him about helping. The king said it might already be too late for their technology to heal her spine.

Y/N would never be able to walk again, never be able to run, never be able to do any of the things she used to love. She would never be able to be an Avenger again. Steve was furious. He let the love of his life go through so much pain, so much torment for a year. Steve had been through a lot, but nothing compared to the pain of knowing that Y/N was never going to be the same, happy girl that she used to be.

Later in the week Tony asked Wanda to see if she could look into Y/N’s memories, see what Y/N went through. Wanda said no at first, finding an intrusion of Y/N’s privacy, but the team had convinced her it was to know what they would be dealing with when Y/N woke. It seemed more like if Y/N was going to wake up at this point. Wanda had gone into Y/N’s room, carful to not disturb any of the chords that were stuck into Y/N as she placed her palm over Y/N’s head, the familiar red glow emitting from her hand.

Wanda never thought she would see so much horror and pain in her life. What Y/N went through was far worse than what her and her brother went though with HYDRA. She saw Y/N’s memories of being tortured, strapped down to a chair and slide with knives, experimented on and injected with a blue substance that Wanda had sworn she’d seen before, and she hadn’t even broken the surface of what she went through. Wanda saw the men raping her friend, leaving her helpless as they tied her body down to the dirty bed she was found on and then left there for days until they wanted to have their ‘fun’ with her again. By the time Wanda was done going through her friend’s memories she had a waterfall streaming down her face. She covered her mouth as she walked out of Y/N’s room, hands shaking.

“What did you see?” Natasha asked, standing and looking at the girl.

Wanda shook her head. “It- it was horrible. They did so many horrible things to her.” She breathed out, “I- she went through more than any of us ever had.” Wanda began to cry uncontrollably, the memories she just saw breaking her heart in half. Vision walked Wanda back to her room, holding the woman in his arms.

Everyone looked at one another, the grim expressions on their faces giving away just how bad this all truly was.

Steve hadn't said a thing as Wanda spoke about what he saw, knowing that what Y/N went though was horrible. Later that night the team had gone to their rooms to try and get some sleep, but Steve was just waiting till he knew they wouldn’t come back to Y/N’s room till the next morning. Steve opened up the glass door and walked into the room, walking around to the left side of Y/N’s bed. He took in her features, and frowned. She was so small. You could see her bones, her skin almost translucent. She had dark bruises covering her skin, and horrible looking scars everywhere. The sight made the Captain want to throw up.

Pulling up a chair, Steve sat next to Y/N, gently holding her frail hand in his large ones. “I’m so sorry.” Steve whispered, “I’m sorry I gave up on you. We- I thought you were dead. I thought I had lost you.” Steve shook his head, salty tears fell down his cheeks and landed on his pants. “Please wake up, baby. Please, I can’t lose you again, I can not lose the love of my life again.” Steve sat with Y/N, sobbing as he held her hand. He just kept praying that she would wake up, that she would remember him.

A few minutes after crying Steve had fallen asleep in the chair, his head resting next to Y/N’s hand. His hand was still gently holding hers. It was odd for him to be so close to Y/N after not having her touch for so long, but it was so familiar it was like she was never gone. He knew she was though, and there was a difference in both of them now for that.

When morning came Steve was woken to a gentle movement under his hand. Steve’s head shot up, and he could was shocked to see that Y/N was trying to move her hand out from under his. Her eyes were slightly open, not enough to really see anything, but enough to see the outline of a man next to her. Y/N’s heart sped up along with her breathing. She was terrified of men after what happened at the HYDRA base. Having Steve next to her just triggered her memories and all the pain she went through.

“Y/N, hey it’s okay, it’s me.“ Steve tried to say. It didn't help the situation though. Y/N’s heart beat was getting to fast, and she was hyperventilating. The machines next to her started to beep loudly, gaining the attention of the doctors and nurses that were currently over looking Y/N. They all rushed in, looking at Steve with a somewhat angry expression.

“You need to leave.” One of the doctors spoke, “You're scaring her, please leave.” He said. Steve hesitated to leave. Was he really scaring Y/N? Was he now the cause of her pain? The soldier got up slowly and exited the room. Steve watched from outside the room as the male doctors tried to get close to her, but Y/N began to freak out again. The women were the only ones that could get near Y/N.

Tony had heard about what happened and asked for female doctors and nurses, that way Y/N would be at least a little bit calm when they had to go in and check on her. He tried to talk to Steve about what happened but all he did was ignore him.

Once Y/N had woken up the doctors had to tell her about her spine and that she would never be able to walk, run, or fight ever again. If Y/N’s mental stability could get any worse, it had at that moment when she heard those words. Y/N was still trying to adjust to everything around her. She may have only been gone for a year, but that one year felt like a lifetime to her. Having so many people trying to help her and make her feel better was new to her again, and she had to relearn what it felt like to be cared for.

When Y/N was told that she would have to go through a surgery to repair some of the damage to her spine she was not happy about it. The thought of being poked and pulled apart made her relive the worst time of her life. It took some convincing that she would be okay, that she wouldn’t go through what she went through at HYDRA. Once Y/N had agreed that scheduled the surgery the next day.

Y/N was scared to say the least. She had asked for Wanda, Natasha, and Pepper to be there with her when she went to surgery, and to be there when she woke up. Steve was hurt at the fact that she had asked for them and not him, but he understood why she had asked for only the girls and not any of the males.

The surgery had gone well, there were no complications that the surgeons had to go through, which made their jobs much easier. When Y/N had woken up she was told that if she ever wanted to walk again, she would have to go through extensive physical therapy and possibly more surgeries. After that she shut everyone out, just wanting to be alone so she could think about what she was going to do. In her mind, she felt it best if she just died. She was useless to the tam now, so what was even the point of her living?

Months after Y/N was brought back to the compound Y/N had to go to several therapists to talk about what she had been through. She didn't want to talk, she wanted to forget. Talking about what she went through meant remembering and reliving, and she definitely did not want to do either of those things. Y/N had also agreed to doing physical therapy, but other than doing that and going to her therapy sessions no one ever saw her leave her room.

Steve had tried to go to her room and check on her, but whenever he neared the door he could hear her crying and mumbling about what she had been through. He knew she still needed some healing, but he didn’t want her to go through it alone. He wanted to be there for her and help her but he knew he wouldn’t be able to get within five feet of her.

Y/N was slowly regaining the trust of men back, but it was hard for her to be around so many at one time. She had severe anxiety around males, and she had to have another female with her almost always. Usually it was Clint, Tony, or Vision that could talk to her without her being scared. Whenever Steve saw them talking to her he became angry because he wanted to be the one to comfort her.

It was early one morning when Y/N had woken up from a night terror, when she decided to wheel herself out of her room and to the main living area. It was around 4:00 a.m. on a Saturday, so she knew that no one would be up yet. Y/N looked out the window, looking out at the dark sky. She had always liked watching the stars disappear when the blue skies came around, she liked watching the clouds move with the wind. She liked the early mornings when it was peaceful. Thinking about the sky and looking out at the earth in front of her made her think of Steve and all those mornings when they’d stay up late and look out the windows or sit on the roof. They’d always look at the stars, trying to name as many constellations as possible. She missed him, more than she missed anything else. Whenever Y/N saw Steve walk past her room or heard him talking to one of the other Avengers she just wanted to get up and talk to him, but she couldn’t do either of those things.

Y/N was so lost in her own thoughts that she hadn't even noticed Steve walk up beside her. He was quiet, not saying anything as they both sat and looked out at the world.

“I heard what you said.” Y/N said quietly, her eyes gazing down at her hands. Steve looked down at Y/N, a bit confused. “When I first came back, I heard what you said about giving up on me, and thinking I was gone.”

Steve looked down. “I was a mess without you.” He mumbled. “I felt so alone without you here with me. God, I just kept praying that we would find you and when we had gone through the rest of the HYDRA bases and we didn’t find you, the last bit of hope I was holding onto just disappeared.” Steve turned his head and looked at Y/N. “I still love you, Y/N/N, I never stopped loving you.”

For the first time since Y/N had returned, she looked up at Steve, a small smile ghosting over her lips. “I never stopped loving you either. I always thought about you, you were the one thing that kept me going even when I wanted to die.” Steve’s heart clenched at the thought of Y/N actually dying in that hell hole, or even dying in general.

The soldier hesitated at first, but he reached his hand out and took Y/N’s hand in his own, giving a soft squeeze. “I’m here for you Y/N, whenever you need me, I’ll be right here.” He kissed Y/N’s knuckles, making her blush and smile at the blonde man.

Y/N had returned in horrible shape, but she was getting better, and now she had Steve again to help her through the pain. She returned and she sure as hell wasn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

[downbythewater-beachblondee]

19| Budha couldn’t do it

Elijah

Moments like these I wish my ma planned a fucking wake. Who plans a funeral without a wake? A hint to her own insanity, it was.

It was around 8 o'clock. Everyone in the house had their own agenda. Black was the new black in everyones attire except mine. Yes, I wore black but I tightened a purple tie around my neck worse than Esther ever could. I did my best.

"Fuck," I concluded, hoping to escape the memories dwelling inside of the bedroom my dead wife and I shared only a week ago. For once, I had envisioned those sloppy seconds of ours as more than a duty or task to complete because of our unspoken commitment. I wanted her, sure. But a need was of better essence. Anyone who knew me knew that Esther was something I needed and whenever I needed something I always had it. Which is why I refuse to accept that she's gone.

See. It doesn't even sound right.

My mothers heels clacked in the ever long fashion they always clacked. She headed into the kitchen picking up anything in her way and placing it back down. It was as if she were searching for an explanation underneath every item miscellaneously situated on the kitchen table.

"What," She badgered, looking up at me once.

I shook my head. This was probably the first time in a long time that I'd actually faced my mother head on without Esther's arms locked into mine. She couldn't say the right things anymore so I used her conscious.

"That tie is ugly." She said, waltzing over towards the living room mirror. "Change it."

"No."

"Excuse me?"

"I said no. I don't have time to argue with you about anything today."

"...I know that face."

She crawled closer to my presence like the true feline she was.

"You're feeling guilty." She purred, prompting my heart to cave in and beat within itself.

"Yes, baby. You're feeling guilty...and I know the reason why." Her fingers inched towards my left ear slowly. I'm guessing this was her way of soothing me after all of these years.

"Because you are guilty." Her voice boomed contrastingly deeper and scarier than her primitive sound. A light squeeze pinched at my ear as she gritted her teeth.

"You should have done more. You were a horrible husband."

"Mom-"

"You wasn't studden that girl. I'm glad she's gone. That way her and her baby can rest in peace without even the possibility of you fucking anything else up."

"Dinah, where's my tie! Damn it!" My father howled. Just like my mother, he was everywhere...searching for something in nothing.

"I don't know, nigga. Borrow one from ya son." She answered, patting her lion padded feet elsewhere. "And where is every got damn body? Rosetta!"

"Hah!!!!" My sister called from upstairs.

"Get yo ass down here! All ya'll get down here and stand in a single file line. Now!"

Rosie, my brother, my dad, and I scurried towards 'getting ready' until we stood shoulder to shoulder in a line facing the queen herself.

She peered at us with the most emotion and deficit that I'd seen in ages. She played with her mouth. Whatever was about to seep out of it was finna be important. If we didn't take heed she'd have one of our heads plastered onto the wall for all to see. I didn't want to be on the receiving end.

"Play your parts, people. Everyone will be at this event this evening and I need zero fuck ups. Zero."

"It's a funeral, mama." Emended Rosie.

"Fuck up number one...Rosie keep your mouth shut. Cover your tattoo's. No one wants to know who you're sleeping with this month and for Gods sake do something with that nasty hair of yours."

Rosie, usually the one to object anything Dinah had to say, rolled her eyes and accepted her defeat as if she were still in middle school. For Esther's sake.

"Titus Jr...I don't have to worry about you. Keep your mouth shut and your face pretty. The only thing I want to hear you talk about is school."

Like the momma's boy he was, he smiled comically. "You got it mama."

"Husband...darling." She hummed, caressing my fathers face with her claws. "Keep your eyes to the sky...not on anyone else. Not tonight. And if you even think of pulling that 'trip to the bathroom' trick...you'll be sleeping on the couch for a month."

Next, it was my turn.

"I suppose you've suffered enough guilt as is, my Elijah...but please. Keep your conversation to a minimal."

"Listen, I don't have to answer to you. My wife is dead. I'm sure I can handle myself just fine."

My father and siblings couldn't even look at me all the way, perhaps in fear that the lioness would greet them with a jab at the jugular. But whatever it was, I did it and they were amazed.

"You think you're tough shit. I don't care what you do Elijah," She continued. "This is my rep on the line. This is stupid! This entire situation...looks stupid. How do you think it makes me feel when your fathers entire congregation is asking me what happened to my daughter and what drove her to suicide?"

"Why does it bother you so much mother? One, she isn't your daughter. Two, my fathers congregation is null and void. The entire church was torn down so whatever preconceptions they have about you, I'm sure Esther's death is the least of their worries."

"Everyone has an opinion, silly boy. Tonight is the night we create new ones. Regardless of what your father did, we still have impressions to fulfill, yes? Sort of like that job you have. Preconceptions, you say? Los Cabasas is full of them. Everyone knows about Esther's death."

"Oh yeah? And I wonder who told the news about it? Was it you?"

"No."

"I have the call log. 1-800-CabasasNewsArea shows up perfectly. Would you like to see it, Mrs. Dinah."

"You sick shit." She reckoned, tucking her fat bottom lip between her teeth. "What do you want. An award?"

"Mama, why would you do that?" Rosie questioned as if we were in a play and her que were an aside.

"Because this is a game, children." She snorted. "Play it well. Everyone would have found out sooner and later so it was best I did what I did to clear up any confusion by allowing a public announcement. For Esther."

"Bullshit. Dinah, this is an amusement park for you. You. It's all about how you want everyone else to feel about you."

She trailed closer to me still clothed with those slits in her eyes.

"For all of her life...Esther trailed in your faux reign. For a small portion of her death...let her have her own...even if it is through me..."

_____________

The funeral was of quintessence. I kept my head down, afraid that an ocean would tear at the protective sheet in my eyes.

'Going up Yonder' would be the death of me, and I meant that with all of its entirety. If I had been hit with a bag of bricks, maybe I would've believed Esther was finally gone.

But that funeral was ton of cement. Now, she was hiding from me and never coming back. That made things worse. I could talk about how I almost broke down because no one knew how guilty I was. I could talk about how I wanted to die in the casket alongside her or how innocent she looked in that white dress. I could mention how I didn't deserve to live or attend that very funeral.

But I couldn't because none of that happened. In fact, I was numb due to the fact that I had taken 3 Xanax's earlier that morning.

During the repass, I excused myself because I hated greeting strangers.

As I made my way out of the mens room, I noticed a familiar smell. Coco butter and pop rocks. Sounds about right.

"Oh my God...thank you for coming." I heard my sisters voice coo.

I saw her hugging a girl much shorter than her with wild tendrils tucked around a flower crown.

"Anything...if you need anything please ask. Where is Elijah?"

"Right here." I announced, noticing her beautiful brown face under a slither of makeup. Noticeable enough for me to recognize but she still looked the same.

"Sanaa....what are you doing here?" I asked, afraid that my mothers serene cock blocking skills would soon tear this building to pieces with everyone in it diced and sliced to perfection.

"Your sister has been a great friend of mine. She told me about what happened and I came right away. Elijah, I am so...so...sorry."

"It's fine. I'm fine."

Her hands gathered into mine, causing a few glances shot towards us. I can only imagine how livid mama would be if she saw Sanaa embracing me right now. Yes, Sanaa was my woman but everyone else would see her as a concubine. No one else knew about Esther and I's 'sleeping arrangements'. She had her situation and I had mine.

I'm sure Sanaa would understand.

"Baby...not right now."  I whispered.

"Elijah, I need you to-" My mothers incessant voice was abruptly halted by the sight of Sanna's honey colored fingers laced into mine.

"Who the fuck is this?" She summoned. Now everyone started to observe. Funeral drama must've really been a main attraction for some people.

"I did. She's a friend of the family." Rosie squeaked.

"A little too god damned friendly. Do she know Elijah wife just died?"

"She does. And I'm right here." Bucked Sanaa, standing toe to toe with my mom.

I would've came to her rescue, regardless of the fact that Sanaa was literally my concubine at my wife's funeral. But I didn't have a chance to.

Rosie reached behind her shoulders. "Okay, that's enough. Mom, this is Sanaa. Sanaa, this is Dinah. Our mom. She's just mourning. We're going to go sit, now."

Sanaa and Rosie walked away.

Like always, Rosie came to my rescue. Even though I don't think she knew about Sanaa and I's relationship completely, she dissolved any confrontations that would've set this church on fire. Singlehandedly, I realized I was dependent upon the women around me.

Furthermore, Sanaa and Rosie must've had a pretty tight relationship. They talked the entire time.