#i wish i had someone to cook for because these will be bomb as hell and i want to share them

[rubenesque-as-fuck]

Might fuck around and try to make another batch of mushroom and caramelized onion pastries later

[cosmichorrorsarestillnicerthanme]

Tifa Lockhart X Dragoon!Reader

This was part of collection of requests from inconsistentlyinterested

Also, I apologize in advance for the egregious Iron Maiden reference and focus on the combat.

NOW! YOUR WISH IS MY COMMAND!!!

The Buster Sword clashed with your Supercharger Lance, creating a storm of sparks between both you and Cloud while you and him sparred with The Highwind behind the both of you, docked on the ground for the group to take a bit of a break and for Cid to do a critical bit of maintenance on it with the semi-reluctant help of Vincent and the others.

Off to the side, Barett, Red, Tifa, and Aerith were in the middle of preparing food for the group that was kindly provided by You, Cloud, and Yuffie.

Speaking of Yuffie, the little thief was also hanging around the cooking group, though she was mostly pestering them with questions while trying to sneak bites of the ingredients, especially the dough Barret was making for the Cookies Marlene had always loved and the special dish Tifa was making with the help of Aerith who was chopping the vegetables that would serve as the sides and Red who was serving as the flame while he took a nap.

Alas, Yuffie’s attempts to get into either were thwarted by Barret lightly flicking her on the head or Tifa slapping her hand with a set of tongs.

This was an important dish for Tifa after all, and after being slapped on the hand for the twelfth time, Yuffie decided to ask her a few questions in order to distract her.

They were, of course, ineffective at distracting her.

However, the answers she gave most definitely did distract Yuffie.

Especially when she asked “Where did you guys even find someone who can go toe to toe with a SOLDIER like Cloud?”

Barret let out a groan and Aerith let out a chuckle as Tifa got a glint in her eye.

“Now why’d you have to go and ask something like that?” Barret groaned

“Well then Yuffie, if you must know, our resident Lancer kind of just… walked into Seventh Heaven one day from the desert, massive lance and all, before ordering a cup of clean water, a burger of whatever would be easiest to make, some kebabs and a single cookie.

“Wait a minute… isn’t that what you guys are cooking right now?” Yuffie asked, enraptured by the story.

“Correct, Tifa here has a question she wants to ask, but that's neither here nor there, I want to hear about their… What did Cloud call it? Supercharger Lance and Powerslave Engine?” Aerith asked as she continued to clean the vegetables, cut them, place them on sticks, and then grill the kebabs.

This is when Barrett decided to pipe up.

“I’ll admit, I don’t know all that much about it, just that it was a part of some sort of experiment involving using summoning Materia to power weaponry. Hell, up until we met that crazy fool I thought it was just some bedtime story to be told to anyone who got too uppity with Shin Ra, that they would ship you off somewhere and have you use one of those ticking time bombs on a stick against anyone they didn’t like. Yet there is one of those weapons right over there, apparently it isn’t as much of a myth as I thought.”

“Ooh! What was that experiment called!?” Yuffie asked, completely invested now.

“If memory serves, Project Dragoon. And let me tell you, I can definitely see why after the first time I saw that lance really go into action!” Barrett stated before beginning to recount the tale of the Airbuster.

“We had our backs to the wall, some mean bastard of a Robot was sicced on us by Shinra himself-” Barrett stated as the entire group, even the sleeping Red said in unison.

“May he burn in hell eternally.”

“-It wasn’t looking pretty, not because we couldn’t handle the bot but because we were running out of time on our bomb. Then the Dragoon there decided to pull out that limit break of theirs.” Barret stated, his memory returning to that moment which would forever be something he would remember.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

“Retracting heat shields, activating turbines, injecting fuel… LIMIT BREAK: POWERSLAVE SUPERCHARGER!!!” you shouted as you raised your lance which was beginning to hum and spin as the blackened and soot covered metal slid open in places, revealing a blood red materia crystal about the size of Barrett's shoulder within that let out an infernal heat upon the battlefield.

Then… it began to scream like a banshee, the moisture in the air vaporizing, the materia flaring to life and your lance beginning to spin faster and faster, as if it was getting up to the right speed for something, like an engine readying for take off.

Little did they know, that was an accurate descriptor of what was about to happen.

You grabbed the Supercharger Lance tight in your hands as the revolutions of the metal finally came up to speed and then… you were gone

BOOM!

The arm of the robot flew off as you cratered into the metal wall before pushing off and disappearing.

BOOM!

The second arm was destroyed and you appeared on the catwalk before vanishing.

BOOM!

Its lower right half exploded and you appeared behind it.

BOOM

Its lower left was gone in a flash and you were in the sky behind Barrett, Cloud, and Tifa.

Then finally.

BOOM!

A molten hole appeared in the core of the mechanical monster, you directly behind it, Lance glowing red and melting the metal catwalk just from being in contact with it.

“WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT AND WHY DIDN’T YOU DO IT SOONER!!!” Barrett shouted in equal parts amazement and frustration.

“A Powerslave engine?” Cloud muttered to himself in shock.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

“After that, all hell broke loose and we lost track of Cloud, not to mention we had to carry that crazy idiot and their damn near flaming lance back to Seventh Heaven.” Barrett muttered irritatedly.

“After that came the whole Don Corneo debacle.” Aerith chimed in.

“Who is-” Yuffie began before Barrett, Tifa, and Aerith all shouted in unison.

“NO!”

“Alright, alright, alright jeez!” Yuffie quietly muttered before asking “What happened next?

“Next… the plate fell…” Tifa mournfully stated as her mind wandered back to just after, when everyone brought her back up, both to save Aerith and to show Shin Ra they wouldn’t die so easily.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

“Well then… better get ready old man… CAUSE AVALANCHE IS COMING FOR YOUR ASS!!!” Barrett shouted, raising his gun to the tower.

“We’ll be taking Aerith off your hands as well!” Cloud shouted as he took his sword and pointed it at the tower just like Barrett and his gun.

You smirked as you picked up your Lance and followed suit, offering your hand to Tifa who took it and was pulled up as you shouted “You're gonna be paying from out of the grave to fix all of this! Aerith, Sector Seven, The Slums, all of it!”

After a moment, Tifa followed everyone else's lead and raised her closed fist at the tower and shouted “Mako, The Planet, The People, ALL OF IT!!! WE REFUSE TO BE YOUR TOOLS ANY LONGER!!!”

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

After that, they spent the next hour or so parroting back their adventures and all the hijinks that took place during them.

And over that Time, Yuffie noticed something, whenever Tifa would talk about you, she would get a certain look in her eye, her face would start to turn a tad pink around the cheeks and she would always say things in a certain way… if Yuffie had to describe it, she would call it an admiring tone.

Then, finally, after dinner when Tifa asked you to come somewhere private with her and then the two of you returned, hand in hand looking extremely happy it hit the ninja.

The reason Tifa went through making this meal.

The reason she would talk so fondly about when you had her back or she had yours.

The reason she held you in high regard as a person, and a fighter.

It was because Tifa Lockhart had a crush.

A crush she just acted on.

[tonberry-yoda]

One More Time - Sanji (pt. 2) f!reader

notes - Here it is! I wrote the first part to this fic almost a year ago, but it has been brought to my attention that this needed a part two lol. The first part kinda sucks, but the story was great, so I was more than happy to bring a part 2! I hope everyone enjoys and has a super day!! <333 word count - 1,458 tags - @sleepyhead0720 <3

You blew a piece of your hair out of your face and took a deep breath. You really hoped that lovesick cook wasn't going to say anything to the rest of his crew because if so, you would be screwed.

Sure, he was cute as hell, but there was no way that you were going to be distracted by that of all things when you had a mission to do.

You were simply there to steal some gold and be on your way. You knew there was no way that you were going to get any of their bounties since you knew all about the strawhats and their run-ins with all sorts of giant names around the grand line, so you stuck with money.

In and out.

That's all you needed to do.

You took a deep breath and went to check around on the boat. It kind of sucked that you got on the boat when they were planning to leave, but if you snatched the gold and hid for a little while, maybe you had the chance of getting off at the next island.

You only wished that you could turn invisible.

But at least you were trained to stay quiet when you were young, growing up on an island with thousands of thieves and pirates. You stole from everyone, no matter what, and you were really good at it.

You stuck your head out from what looked like a trapped door as you crawled under the boat to find your way around. If this was going to be home for the next couple of hours, you had to know every nook and cranny as well as know how to avoid anything that could get you caught.

From the trap door, you saw the strawhats mingling at eating food. That cook from earlier was serving everyone their food and the captain was really putting it away.

They all looked so happy.

It reminded you of-

You quickly shook the thought from your brain and took a deep breath.

The mission, dummy. you reminded yourself.

Since they were all busy on the main deck, you thought you'd search around from the back of the boat and try to find the treasure room.

You were always pretty good at searching around in places like these, so it didn't take you long. But you cursed under your breath when you saw an industrial lock on the door.

The key had to be somewhere, right?

You couldn't just pick the damn thing.

"Ahem."

You nearly jumped out of your skin when you heard someone behind you.

GOD if only you could turn invisible.

But instead, you turned around slowly to find the red haired girl from earlier.

You chuckled nervously and rubbed the back of your neck.

"Can I help you?" she asked, pulling out a blue rod looking weapon.

"Just browsing." you smiled and threw a smoke bomb on the ground, darting off.

Jesus Christ, now you were really screwed. You managed to get yourself back under the boat in some storage room, but already heard some commotion from the crew up top. You knew she was going to tell them, but so soon?

You groaned softly and buried your face in your hands. What the hell were you going to do now? A whole team of beasts was after you. What would happen if someone found you? You would be dead, probably.

You wanted to avoid everyone if possible, but you knew that was going to prove difficult as it sounded like they were splitting up all over the boat. There were too many of them for you to go wandering around, so your best bet was in that storage room.

Or so you thought.

When you heard the trap door open on the ceiling, you tried to hide yourself behind a couple of boxes and you held your breath.

This was the most intense game of hide and seek you've ever played.

You squeezed your eyes shut, praying that you wouldn't be found and you thought you were right when you heard the door shut.

You let out a long breath and almost screamed when you saw a figure in front of you.

You saw a match light and start up a cigarette. Who you recognized to be the cook leaned down to you, holding the lit match near your face.

"So you got on our boat, huh?"

You blushed. "I guess so."

He hummed in response and stood up to turn on the light. When he did, he squinted a bit before blinking and kneeling back down to you.

"So you did want our money." he said.

"Something like that." you rested your back against a box and hugged your knees.

"Ah.... so that was a-"

"Distraction. Sorry."

He just nodded and looked up at the dim light. "That was my first kiss." he said softly.

"Sorry." Was all you could say.

"It was nice." he whispered.

Your face went hot. God, why was he so pretty?

"I'm in big trouble aren't I." you said, trying to change the subject.

"I dunno. I could just tell 'em you jumped off and we'll drop you off at the next island."

"You would do that?"

He shrugged and smiled, taking a drag of his cigarette. "Let's just say I have a soft spot for girls."

You laughed and took his cigarette out of his hand, smoking a big of it yourself. "Well, that's very kind of you."

You handed him back his cigarette and the two of you sat smoking for a while together in silence.

You jumped slightly when you heard the trap door open. "Sanji, did you find her?" It sounded like the captain.

"Nah, she's not down here. I think she jumped off." Sanji shouted. "I'm just getting stuff for dinner ready."

"Yummy!!!" The captain ran off and slammed the door and you looked at Sanji with bright eyes.

"You really didn't have to do that. I've been through worse, believe me."

"It's nothing, really. Plus, it would just be easier to let you go and made sure you didn't steal anything, right?"

You just nodded and he stood up.

"Well," he said. "I'm gonna go make some dinner for everyone. Want some?"

"You dont-"

"You look hungry. I'll be down with dinner soon."

You never really kept friends. You lived in a world full of cheats and liars, so you were expected to be one as well. Sure, you did the job you knew best, but more than anything, you just wanted people to call yours. People you connected with. The only time you got that connection was when you were a child, and that was far too long to remember in full detail.

That conversation with the cook. You hadn't done something like that in years.

You heard the door open again and he came down with a plate.

"You're name's Sanji, right?" you asked as he handed you a plate.

"It is. What's yours?"

"y/n."

Sanji sat next to you and began to eat his own food, occasionally glancing at you.

"You're a great cook." you told him when you finished your food.

"Thanks." he smiled. "You're a crappy theif."

You didn't want to break out into loud laughter in case anyone heard you, but if you could've you would. So instead, you just giggled a bit.

"You have a pretty smile." he said quietly.

"I'll break your heart." You kept your eyes on the floor, trying not to tear up.

"I don't care."

You looked up at him with shock in your eyes and he looked away with a bright red face.

"S-Sorry." he muttered.

"Don't apologize."

"Uh," he cleared his throat. "Nami says we won't be on the island until tomorrow afternoon. Can you wait that long?"

"I don't mind waiting."

"Good... I'll bring you some blankets."

"Sanji, you don't-"

"It's no big deal."

"Yes it is!" You stood up and Sanji turned around with pink cheeks. "No one's ever done anything like this for me."

He was at a loss for words. Not once in your entire life had anyone done this for you? That shocked him.

You walked up to him and threw your arms around him, trying to hold back your tears, which seemed nearly impossible when he hugged you back.

"I really need to get off of this boat." you chuckled.

"Why?" he asked, cupping your cheek.

"Before I make a mistake."

You pressed your lips to his and held his shoulders. He cupped your face so softly, that you thought you were going to melt.

You didn't know him very well, but you knew that you were going to be very upset tomorrow afternoon.

~~~~~

one piece masterlist | pinned post

2023 @tonberry-yoda – do not repost or claim ANY of my work as your own! likes, reblogs, and comments are not only welcome, but appreciated

~~~~~

[raid3r-r4bbit]

Random Fo4 Companions Headcannons.

With no explanation or order, because I said so.

Gage fucking hates coconut. Also tatos/tomatoes. And he's never eaten muscles/clams/squid but you couldn't make him. Honestly I see him being more of a picky eater than he would ever admit to. If you took him to a red lobster he'd sit in the bar with nothing and noticibly and angrily glare at you or the lobsters the whole time.

Danse loves kids, teaching them, working with them ect. But not only is he socially awkward as all hell, he's naturally a bit commanding which to kids is scary and to teens is annoying. He's aware of this, but has no idea how to mediate it so he just, "heyyyy....champ?"

Cait is the same way with kids but she just dips.

Playing poker with deacon would be like holding a staring contest with a statue.

Having a staring contest with x6 would be like playing poker with deacon.

A poker match or staring contest between deacon and x6 is like taping bread jamside up to a cat.

Dogmeat does that thing that cats do and tries to sit/sleep right on your chest and suffocates you.

Strong loves playing with toys, and wishes he had someone to play fight with. Also he understands that he's a super mutant and still feels like humans should be food, but still doesn't know why people don't like him and it makes him sad.

Piper is evil.

Preston sleeps in the fetal position. He also overheats a lot, but then gets cold, so sleeping soundly is an event for him. He would also make the best educator, of any level. Mainly cause he's clear and precise but also cause if you're stupid (like me) he doesn't get mad if you need things explained.

Ada is actually capable of moving faster but simply chooses not to.

Curie has a crush on Danse, but doesn't understand what that is emotionally so she just likes to watch him and try to learn about him. Danse finds this unerving and weird, but she's essentially harmless so he doesn't make her stop.

Old Longfellow is very lonely and just wants someone to tell stories to. (This might just be cannon ngl)

Codsworth is in denial about the bombs and the death of soles spouse and Shaun being gone. Synth Shaun wouldn't be able to shake him, and if ss chooses a romantic partner, codsworth is both very overly chummy with them, but also super passive-aggressive aggressive towards them.

Ham cooked loves lotion and stuff. Obviously it doesn't really do anything for him, but it's like cat nip to him. He just wants to rub it all over his face.

MacCready(how tf is ur name spelled dude???) sucks at taking care of others people's kids. He'll fight them, but like on their own level.

Kid: "you're a meanie!"

Mac: "Well YOU'RE A POOP FACE!"

*collective gasps and oooo's from other kids watching*

[gummy-sharks666]

Sweetie, I have a new meal that I wish you to cook 😋😋😋 for the random hcs of bakugan characters.

Shun, Dan, Marucho and Billy.

Have fun!! ❤️🤩❣️

SORRY THIS TOOK SO LONG 🫣

Shun:

Gender: v gender-fluid/demi boy

Sexuality: I’m thinking his sexuality is also p fluid but he’s probably attracted to more fem ppl

A ship I have: haven’t seen s4 but I’ve been converted to the shunsellon agenda. They can be emo together <3 might be strange but I like shun/ace 🫣

BROTP: Dan definitely. They’ve had ups and downs together, childhood friends. A lot of ppl ship them but idk I just see them more as rlly good friends personally. Also fabia and Alice

NOTP: uhh probably Shun/Fabia. I think they’re just friends

Random hc: his favorite MCR album is Black Parade but hes too afraid to admit it bc then he’d either be called basic or he’d have to explain the reason is because of losing his mom and how the hard he relates to the lyrics

General opinion: I like him and HOO boy I shave a history with him for sure. He was def one of my faves as a child and definitely contributed to my gender crisis. Also began my love for Ventus and Ventus users. I don’t think I ever crushed on him but I wanted to be him so bad…

Dan:

Gender: someone has to be the cis male of the group, it’s him

Sexuality: bi but definitely has not explored his attraction to masc presenting ppl as much. It takes him awhile to figure out he’s bi

A ship I have: THERAPY LMAO 💀 but fr I’d say either Spectra or Anubias, although I think those relationships would be more one sided (Dan not really noticing they’re crushing on him so damn hard). I think that’s why I like it so much too bc I’ve had MANY crushes like that before and i like angst… something something Pete Wentz lyrics be like

BROTP: Shun for sure, him and Runo strike me as the divorced couple who end up being besties after going separate ways and learning ab themselves more. Also Drago obvs

NOTP: Literally any female character in the show

Random hc: adhd for SURE

General opinion: I’d say season 1 Dan will forever be my fave. He’s a little shithead kid who gets the bomb dropped on him and he has to start reevaluating how he looks at the other people around him, but that starts to falter in the later seasons where he just becomes the stereotypical hero who gets all the buffs and does no wrong, which does his character such a disservice. I honestly like that he was such a dick in the beginning bc that’s how most kids are, but the point is they learn through meeting other people and experiencing shit. We were robbed of that for Dan after season 1 IMO. But overall he’s fine ig.

Marucho:

Gender: reads as a boy to me personally, now that I think ab it him being a trans guy is so real. Short trans kings unite 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

Sexuality: his sexuality is fluid. He just likes who he likes, but I think he definitely tends to fall more for personality than looks

A ship I have: MARUREN OBVIOUSLY!! Literally one of the best things ab season 3

BROTP: Julie and Runo definitely

NOTP: uhhhhh idk honestly I haven’t seen him be shipped with too many ppl for me to be like “oh hell naw” 😭😭

Random hc: he def has a bakugan discord and probably a separate one for him and all the original brawlers from when the game first started. Him and Julie coordinate all the reunions and meetups

General opinion: I love this dude fr. He’s fucking LOADED but he’s still the sweetest kid in the universe. He’s not just hella book smart but he’s extremely emotionally intelligent too. I also relate to him with that whole gifted kid past a bit,,, hes honestly just all around a fantastic character I’m a big fan of Marucho. Def one of the best characters in the series

Billy:

Gender: yknow what,, I’m gonna say it. Billy gives me transmasc vibes

Sexuality: straight

A ship I have: Canon, but Julie. I think they’re whole backstory connection, the falling out and reconnection was really cute. I hope they have a good rest of their lives together 🫡

BROTP: Jake. I think they’d be homies. Jake is the third wheel on his and Julie’s dates

NOTP: uhhh idk honestly,,, maybe klaus 💀

Random hc: huge fan of early 2000’s pop alongside Julie

General opinion: I think he’s cool. He’s not one they expand on a whole lot but him and Julie are one of the very few straight ships I rlly like

[afriendlyblackhottie]

Bedroom Eyes

Summary: maybe working on New Year’s Eve wasn’t always a bad thing

Pairings: Chris Evans x interviewer!Black!Reader

Warnings: minors dni, fake dating, smut, daddy kink, rough sex, over stimulation, orgasm denial, unprotected sex

(A/N: this is for my chick flick challenge!!! Yay finally putting something out ☺️☺️ not edited 👍🏾 like, follow, reblog with a comment and thanks for reading 💜 ✌🏾)

———-—————-—-—————-———

Six months ago you and your boyfriend decided to ‘go on a break.’ Whatever that was supposed to mean. It’s just things hadn’t been clicking and you thought maybe some time apart would bring you back together.

So you moved out of your shared apartment and in with your best friend who promised to make you get butt naked ass wild. Whatever that meant. It all sounded like fun and games and it technically was but you’d kissed one fucking guy and David lost is goddamn mind.

And then the truth came out.

For all the yelling and the bitching about you, it wasn’t you. David had made the decisions for you without you even knowing. It was over. That was that. His new girl was moving in. Taking up your spot in the bed. She got to be the one to steal from his plate. It was her hand he was holding.

And you’d just gotten the honors of seeing it up close and personal for the very first time.

By now you’d kind of adapted to being single. Started getting used to waking up alone. It was kind of nice because you got to spread out. There were definitely pros and cons to the whole situation.

Didn’t have to worry about feeding him anymore. That was nice. Only had to worry about you. Even if you kind of liked cooking for him. But he was so picky it got so annoying.

God you missed the consistent sex. Probably most of all. That rose clit stimulator was fun but you were dying for even a little bit of penetration.

You’d been together for so long you’d forgotten what it was like to just be. Alone. Just you. Like what did you really like. Did you even like The Walking Dead or was it just because he liked The Walking Dead. What kind of food did you even like. Music? Did you even like music. Or art. There was just so much to rediscover.

And you’d been on your way. Even got a sweet new gig . Hell you were doing great. So why the hell did it still feel like you’d gotten punched in the stomach when you saw them together.

“H-hey,” you stuttered out. You couldn’t help it as you picked her apart. From her hair to her clothes. At some point you just got petty in your head and god you didn’t want to be one of those girls.

“Hey, Y/N,” he greeted you all smiley and shit. Like we get it. God you sounded like such a hater. But who could blame you. You were pretty fucking salty. “Wha- what’re you doing here?” He asked all enthusiastic this smile spreading across his face.

She put her hand on his bicep and all you could think was, ‘girl, calm down. Nobody want him.’ Like a liar.

“Just hanging out,” you replied. “You must be Melissa.”

She nodded. “Uh huh. I’ve heard so much about you.”

“Oh wow wish I could say the same for you,” you said through your forced smile. You didn’t mean to sound so bitchy it was just you were fucking hurt. He’d moved on so quickly. Like had dropped an entire bomb on you that he’d met someone.

Honestly you’d only been here because you’d gotten invited last minute which made it even more fun that you’d run into them. And by fun you mean you wanted to pull out your eyelashes.

At least, Your sweet new gig came with some perks you admit. Had gotten to take home some pretty cool freebies. Like the new iPhone you’d gotten in a gift basket. Or all the meals on company dime. Yeah interviewing celebrities definitely came with it’s perks. Even when it meant working on New Year’s Eve, which ended up being worth it.

Well okay it would come with more perks but this had been your first big story. The actor you were interviewing was only free today since he was flying out soon and no one else had wanted to work on the holiday but it was kind of paying off for you.

You met up at this cafe which you were supposed to use to pay with the card your manager had given you except that he wouldn’t take no for an answer. He’d been way sweeter than you’d expected and you don’t know how the two of you ended up sharing your life stories but you had.

Questions had been abandoned for conversation instead. Didn’t even look at your notepad at some point. Besides you were pretty sure all of this would stick in your mind. And that’s why he invited you to come out tonight. Neither of you wanted to stop talking.

It wasn’t like a date or anything. Just the two of you had been having fun. He was easy to talk to. First covering your childhoods because for some reason while you were supposed to be asking questions he kept going ‘hmmm what about you?’ like he wanted to hear all about it.

And he was really, really hot so it made you wanna talk longer.

Since the break had officially turned into a breakup your best friend had been trying to press you about getting yourself out there. Had tried tinder which was like a wasteland if you were being honest. And you ended up being uninterested in all the guys your friends tried to play matchmaker with.

“Um, are- are you here with anyone?” He asked, almost nervously.

“Hey, Babe, got your whiskey sour,” Chris said, wrapping his arm around your shoulders after handing you, your drink. It was like he’d been on cue. Great timing, Chris.

“Thanks,” you said smiling up at him. Hopefully showing that you were trying to express the double meaning with your eyes.

“Holy fuck, you’re Chris- you’re Chris Evans!” David laughed almost sounding sarcastic. You recognized that as his ‘well that’s fan-fucking-tastic,’ laugh. The one he did when he was nervous. “That’s great.”

Oh this was good. This was so good. Maybe he’ll finally stop texting you when he’s drunk now. Telling you, ‘she’s not you,’ as if you forced him into it. You weren’t the one that ended things.

“Yeah, hi,” he said. “And you are?”

“Chris, this is David,” you introduced. “Oh, and, Melissa.”

“Hi.” Melissa giggled out, eyeing him up and down

“David and Melissa… are they the ones we met at that charity gala?” He asked like he was deep in thought.

“No,” you laughed. Wow he was really selling this thing. “David’s my ex. Melissa is his new girlfriend.”

“Oh well it’s nice to meet you.”

“So how did you two meet?” David asked through gritted teeth.

“Work,” he said. “She interviewed me and we just hit it off.”

“Wow that’s… really, really cool.”

“Anyway it was nice meeting you, David. Gotta say thanks for not seeing what you had.” And that was how he finally pulled you away as you tried to keep in your excitement until he was far away enough.

“That was amazing,” you squealed as soon as you were far enough. Throwing your arms around him. “Thank you.”

He chuckled. “You’re welcome. Figured you needed some rescuing when you looked like a cornered puppy.”

Your jaw dropped and you pulled away to smack his stomach. “Hey!”

Chris did this cute little smile and then rubbed the spot you hit. “I bail you out and then you abuse me?” Then he looked back at where they were. Seeing David looking right at the two of you. Chris’ eyes drifted back over to you before laughing. “Well guess you’re my date for tonight.”

“You’d do that?” You asked. Fuck he was hot.

“Yeah,” he replied. “LA is a small town. I’ve ran into so many exes. Wish I’d had someone to swoop in sometimes.”

“Well, thanks for swooping in for me,” you said.

“Don’t mention it,” he said. “Alright, you wanna really get under his skin?”

You nodded not being able to stop the smile spreading onto your voice. “I’d love to.”

Chris grabbed your hand. You tried to not be too obvious that you were watching David’s reaction as Chris pulled you to the dance floor.

You were having too much fun hanging with Chris if anything. Doing shots and dancing. Your ex trying to sneak looks at you which you’d started paying less and less attention to as the night went on. Kinda hard to notice him when Chris was your date.

As midnight started inching closer and closer you kind of started to get nervous. Were you supposed to kiss him. He wasn’t going to kiss you, was he? Well guess it depends on how dedicated he was to his craft. You damn sure didn’t mind. Hell the two of you had ditched his friends a long time ago.

He’d just been so sweet all day. If you weren’t convinced he wasn’t just nice you’d think this was a real date with the way he was acting. He’d went off to get another drink and you’d went to the bathroom. As you washed your hands Melissa came in beside you, side-eyeing you as she was going into a stall. You crinkled your nose, hurrying the hell up. You were having a good night. You did not wanna deal with them.

Of course life couldn’t be that nice as David was waiting outside the door. You tried to walk passed him only for you to hear a, “Y/N, wait.” As he grabbed you by the arm to pull you back before you could walk away.

“What, David?” You asked.

“I just… are you really with Chris?” He asked. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I wasn’t aware that I had to,” you replied.

“What? I told you about Melissa.”

You scoffed. “Yeah because you dumped me for her.”

He huffed. “So? A heads up still would have been nice.”

“I don’t owe you anything, David,” you said trying to turn around so you could walk away.

“Don’t owe me anything? I’ve missed you so bad lately and you think you don’t owe me anything.”

“Yeah,” you replied. “That’s not my problem.”

“Everything alright over here?” Chris asked once again swooping in.

“Yeah, we’re okay,” you replied with a sigh not even in the mood to hash this out.

“It’s almost midnight,” he said.

“Y/N,” David huffed, “come on. Let’s just talk.”

You sent a tight-lipped smile his way before getting closer to Chris. “Maybe later. I don’t wanna miss the countdown.”

Chris grabbed your hand, lacing your fingers together. Finally pulled you away just as you could hear the:

“10…”

“…9…”

He turned to face you as the both of you started doing the same as everyone else in the crowd. Glancing up to see David still standing there.

“…8…”

“…7...”

Was Chris really about to do this? He put his hand on your face. Stroking his thumb over your cheek.

“…6…”

“…5…”

He was seriously giving you those bedroom eyes too. Was this apart of him playing up as your date or was he serious.

“…4…”

“…3…”

Was this supposed to really be a date?

“…2…”

Goddamn he was so…

“…1! Happy New Year!” The rest of the crowd cheered but you couldn’t even get it out as Chris pressed his lips to yours.

You found yourself putting your hands on his strong shoulders. Feeling all tingly as he grabbed you to deepen it. Dear god he was so yummy.

When he pulled away he grabbed your hand. You got a quick glance at David who was looking at you in such disbelief. Oh well. Sucks to suck.

As the two of you sat in the VIP section this time you giggled over nothing. Falling back into your easy conversation like you were before.

“Okay, but guarantee your publicist is going to kill me,” you said with a giggle.

Chris snorted out a laugh. “No she won’t. She’ll just yell at me. Don’t worry I’ll take full responsibility.”

“Yeah I’m sure she’ll understand. I just fell under your spell.”

“Exactly! If anything she’ll feel sorry for you. Just make sure you cry extra hard.”

You laughed. Tilting your head back. “Well I’m sure my boss is really going to enjoy it when I write my article about my night being Chris Evans’ fake date.”

“I’d read it,” he said. “Besides, this fake dates feeling kinda real to me. We did kiss.”

“Yeah, we did,” you said your face feeling all hot.

Chris licked the corner of his mouth as he got close to you again. Putting his hand under your chin. “And I dunno about you, but I’m open to doing it again. If that’s okay?”

You nodded as you pursed your lips. Feeling suddenly self conscious from the way he was looking at you. Was your hair okay? Lipstick?

You didn’t really have anymore time to think as he started kissing you again. This time letting it linger. Leaning you back against the couch so he could get the best access.

“You wanna get outta here?” He asked pulling away. “Go back to my place?”

You nodded, biting your lip. “I’d like that.”

Chris kept his hand on the small of your back, making you giggle, as the two of you tried to find the exit. Not bothering to say bye to your ex even when you passed him. Why would you when you were here with him. Literally who the fuck cares about anything else when a man like this was trying to take you home.

The two of you kept talking until he pulled up to a red light where he ended up pulling you into a quick kiss. Kind of nice knowing that it really wasn’t all for show. To be honest things could end right here and you’d be pretty happy. Hell it could end tomorrow and you’d be happy then too.

By the time you got back to his place he did the usual. Introduced you to his dog. Offered you a drink. Ended up pouring the both of you a glass of wine as Dodger played at your feet.

“No, no, no I refuse to believe that!” You shook your head. Giggling.

“What!” He gasped sitting beside you. “Do I look like I would lie to you?”

You giggled again. “Yes.”

He rolled his eyes dramatically. “Oh whatever.”

“You’re not an actor for nothing,” you replied.

“I guess,” he said with a chuckle. Then he looked over at you out of the corner of his eye before grabbing the back of your chair to pull you closer.

“Hey!”

“What?” He chuckled. “You were too far away.”

“Well, you could have asked, Sir,” you said.

Chris smirked, one eyebrow raising up. “Ohhhh, sir… I like that sound of that,” he said sitting back. “Maybe you should call me that more often.”

You laughed. “Oh yeah? think I’ll need to?”

“Depends?”

“On?”

“If you can handle it,” he said putting his face close to yours.

“I think I can do that,” you whispered.

Chris licked his lips putting his hand on your cheek so he could bring you closer. Swiping his lips across yours quickly. “Have I told you how fucking pretty you are?”

You shook your head. Your face getting all warm. “No,” you whispered again this time feeling all shy.

“Well, I think you’re very pretty,” he whispered back before kissing you again. This time you put your hands in his hair as he started getting deeper. Fuck this was not how you’d been expecting your New Years to go. What a way to kick off the year.

When he added his tongue you let out the most embarrassing moan. He was just such a good kisser. And then he put his hand on your outer thigh. Inching up and running over your hip. “And you’re a good kisser,” he’d pulled away to say not even giving you a chance to respond before pulling you back in.

You might be actually having heart palpitations.

Finally he pulled away again to stand up. Helping you up with him. Then leaning down to kiss you again. “Let me give you a tour,” he said against your lips.

“Right now?” You asked with a pout.

“Mhm, want you to know your way around,” he said before kissing you again.

He held your hand as he made his way through the place. You’d already seen the living room when you’d walked in so he moved on before finally getting to his bedroom. Getting behind you and kissing all on your neck.

“And this is my room,” he’d said in your ear. Making you shiver as he kissed on you.

“It’s nice,” you breathed out. Pushing your ass back against him. Letting out a little gasp as you made contact against his cock. “Oh, fuck, Chris.”

“Mmm fucking like that sound.”

You leaned back so you could kiss him again. “More,” you whimpered as he started grinding against you.

That’s when his hands finally made their way to your chest. Grabbing all on your tits

“Fuck,” you whimpered.

One hand staying there as the other trailed down your body until it was to your crotch. That’s when he started rubbing you there over your dress. Making you try to get more contact on him.

“Just take this off,” he said with his lips all up in your ear as he started reaching for the hem. God it was just so… ugh you could tell you were wet a fuck.

Chris finally turned you around. Putting his hands on your ass. You don’t think you’d ever been kissed like this. With this much passion and want. Like there was this neediness, but at the same time no rush.

He smacked your ass making you yelp out another moan. Chris pulled away for a second so he could take his shirt off.

“You have tattoos?” You asked tracing your fingers over the words on his chest.

“A few,” he said as gripped your ass.

“Ow,” you whined trying to reach behind to make him loosen up. Only for him to let go and then come back against it with a smack. “Fuck.”

Hands going back up your body so he could undo your bra turning you back around so he could grab on your naked tits again. Pinching your nipples. “Get your ass on the bed.”

You did as you were told watching as he stalked over to you. You tried to cover yourself up with your hands. Suddenly feeling self-conscious about being naked in front of such a man.

“No, no. None of that,” he said as he moved your hands away from your body. “So fucking beautiful. You don’t hide yourself from me. Lay back, Baby. Lemme make you feel good.”

You nodded and did as he said again. He was still looking at you like he wanted to eat you up and after he kissed down your body you were pretty sure that’s exactly what he was about to do.

“So fucking hot,” he groaned as he pushed up your thighs. Licking his chops before leaning in a little closer to place kisses on your thighs. He leaned down to press his lips to your still covered clit. “These are cute panties, Baby. I like them,” he said all raspy before licking at the wet spot.

You gasped. “Fuck.”

Then he traced his fingers up and down. Making you breath out heavy. “Where’s your manners, Baby?”

You tried to rely but he kept kissing you there and then doing this thing where he’d lick and it was just driving you so frantic. “Oh, fuck,” you whimpered tilting your head back. “Oh, fuck, oh please. I’m sorry. Thank you.”

“That’s better,” he replied with a little chuckle. Fuck he was getting pleasure out of treating you like this? Sadistic.

“More,” you moaned because well that sounded good to you.

Finally he pulled your panties to the side. “So goddamn pretty. C’mere,” he groaned before raising up to sit on his knees. Trying to get your panties off. Pulling them down your legs. “That’s my girl.” He pushed your thigh back up as he looked down at you.

Oh my god. It was like… he was hotter than you’d… like he was really doing… like you couldn’t wrap your head around what was happening. Fuck couldn’t even get your thoughts together. Face all fuzzy. Seriously he was looking at you like he was about to fuck you all night.

You wanted him so goddamn bad.

“Chris!” You raised up to tangle your hand in his hair. Tugging on the ends. “Oh my god!” Your hips stuttered up.

He in returned pinned you down. Wanting to keep you exactly where he wanted you. Like was it not enough he looked like a fucking daydream he had to eat you out like you were the best thing he ever tasted. Holy fuck. You were gonna fucking-

“Ah!” You screamed out as you squirted. Feeling like every nerve in your body was about to push out of you. Stomach clenching. “Holy fu- Chris!”

He kissed up your body until he was at your lips. The clinking of his belt buckle as he was barely undoing his pants. “You ready for me?” He asked getting in your ear again. His mouth felt amazing between your thighs but you kinda missed him like this.

He put his thumb against your clit make you let out this mewl. God you couldn’t believe you were really responding to him like this. He just felt so fucking good.

The quick sound of him undoing his pants was making you need more from him. “Chris, please,” you whimpered.

“What? Tell me what you want, Baby. I’ll do it.”

Oh fuck you think you’re about to fucking cum again.

When you’d interviewed him this morning at some point it did start to feel like a date. Just the way the two of you spent like… all day there until it was time to close. It was a holiday and those people wanted to go the hell home. Even if they were more than happy to keep bringing Captain America cookies.

It had been a long time since you’d talked to someone the way you did to him. The way he just… listened when you talked. Like he was the one interviewing you. Or like he really wanted to know things about you. 

But you have to admit you had not been expecting to end up like this. He was Chris fucking Evans. Movie start. Hollywood heartthrob. Sure this might not go anywhere but at least you knew he’d fuck you right. Like so right. This man might be dangerous. He should not be able to look at you like that or touch you like this. It should be illegal.

But you wanted more.

“I want you to fuck me,” you confessed. “Please? Pretty please?”

“See I knew you could be a good girl. Such good fucking manners.”

Oh, fuck.

He finally pulled his dick out and you just had to see okay. Like you needed to know. Not for the article or anything. Don’t worry you were keeping it to yourself, but still you wanted to see.

God it was a good thing your coworker wasn’t able to make it. All you’re saying is if you were her you’d be pissed. Imagine getting this close to Chris Evans dick but you weren’t going to make it in time only for it to go to a smaller contributor.

“Fuck,” you groaned as it finally caught your eyes. Of course this pretty fuckin’ man would have a pretty ass dick to match. Fuck you wanted to- “Ah!” You yelped as he pushed the tip to your opening.

“Gonna fuck you nice and deep,” he said as he pushed the head in a like.

“Fuck,” God you sounded so whiney and pathetic.

You wanted more.

“Chris!” You cried, as he started kissing you. He was just pushing in so deep. His belt buckle smacking against your thighs until he finally took it out of the loops to drop it on the floor.

Dunno. Feeling pretty powerful that you’d made Chris Evans wanna fuck you so bad he couldn’t even wait to take off his pants before sliding in home to you.

“So damn tight. Can barely fit my dick in you,” he groaned. “So goddamn wet.”

“Don’t stop,” there was this tinge of desperation in your voice. “Please, don’t- ah- Chris!”

He’d filled you up to the hilt just then. Had your eyes watering. Face all screwed up. Goddamn. He felt so fucking good. You wanted more. So much, much more.

He wrapped on arm around your thigh to bring your knee up by your ear, while the other went under your head. He was just so close. Like he wanted you to feel every roll of his hips. Fuck.

“Don’t- ugh- don’t stop!” You cried.

So he fucking didn’t.

You didn’t even know you could cum like this. Just one right after another. And that was before he even took his pants off.

When he finally fell to your side so he could push them down his hips. You sat up so you could get on your knees this time. Was it weird to say your mouth was watering from looking at his cock? Who cares. You wanted it in your mouth now.

“Damn, Baby,” Chris groaned as you slurped him up. Damn you were gonna get addicted to this. You just know it.

He put his hand in your hair, pushing your head down so he was in your throat. Eyes getting watery wants again.

“That’s fuck- fuuuuck,” he groaned. “Come here,” he said snatching you off so he could pull you onto his lap.

“Ah!” You let out this scream as he’d slid you down his length. “Fuuuuuuuuuck.” He was just so fucking big and thick. You don’t really know how else you were supposed to act. It was just too much.

“That’s it. Bet your ex didn’t fuck you like this, did he?” He asked with a tight grip around your hips.

“Never,” you cried. “Fuck, Chris!”

“Good ,” he moaned. “Damn your ex was stupid. I wouldn’t let a pussy like this go.”

“Please,” you preened. Fuck you don’t even know what you’re begging for. You were just so over stimulated. “Fucking, please.”

“What you want, Baby? Just tell me and I’ll give you anything.”

Why did he have to look up at you like that. Was it not enough he was balls deep in your fucking guts? He had to look at you like that?

“I want-,” you tried to say but you couldn’t get a thought out this sob. Your next orgasm hitting you look a fucking freight train out of nowhere.

Chris chuckled and sat up. You looked so cute all fucked out. “I know, Baby. I got you.”

Honestly you felt like you were going to have a fucking mental breakdown. So you wrapped your arms around his neck. Sobbing into his shoulder as you came down his length.

Chris kissed your cheek and slowed down the movement of your hips. Ready to give you a moment. Fuck. He’d really done a number on you.

“It’s okay,” he said into your ear. “I’m here.”

You nodded and didn’t stop crying into his shoulder. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay.” He chuckled.

“It just felt too good. I got overwhelmed.” You sniffled.

“It’s alright,” he replied wrapping his arms around you, wanting to hold you. Bring you down a little. Let you know he wasn’t going anywhere. “It’s okay.” Chris kissed your forehead. “Here,” he said. “Lemme go and get you some water, okay?”

You nodded as you climbed off of him. He kissed your forehead again before moving away from you. Your body was twitching still. Little tremors running through you. Fuck. That was intense.

As you laid there, trying to get yourself together you couldn’t stop fucking shaking. Ugh. Well, it’s not like he wasn’t be sweet. But still. You were here in bed and breaking every rule with Chris Evans on your first time ever getting an interview like this, and you were tapping out?

That he’d literally went from helping you not look like in front of your ex and his new girlfriend and getting you water right now, and you were tapping out? You needed to get your shit together.

“Here,” he said sitting coming to your side to hand you the glass. “Gotta stay hydrated, Babe. Didn’t mean to wear you out,” he teased.

You chuckled as you took it from him. “I’m okay.”

“You sure?” He asked. “We can take a minute.”

You nodded as he came to climb back in with you. Laying on his side the two of you facing each other.

Chris put his hand on your cheek. Stroking it with his thumb then placing a plump kiss on your lip. Why was he so cute. Fuck.

“I promise I won’t include this part in my article,” you mumbled.

Chris chuckled. “Well, it would definitely get a lot of hits if you did.”

“Your team would kill me. Hell my boss would kill me.”

He rolled his eyes. “They’d have to go through me first.”

“Look at you all tough guy,” you teased.

“Damn straight,” he said with a wink. “I take care of my woman.”

You raised an eyebrow even as your heart thumped so hard. “Oh I’m your woman now?”

He chuckled. “Working at it? I gotta be honest. I like you.”

“Really?”

“Mhm,” he said. “I know we just met but… it’s like since this morning I haven’t wanted you to leave and… I don’t know.”

“No I feel the same way,” you said.

He sighed. “So I’m not being a total meatball?”

“Yeah,” you said with a giggle, “but I like it.”

“Good,” he replied leaning into kiss you. He climbed on top of you as the two of you deepened. Wow barely even able to give watch other a chance. But what can you say you wanted him.

He pushed your legs apart again. Rocking his hips into you. You tried to move up hoping he’d get the hint and push into you, but it didn’t seem like he was. Fucking tease.

“Gonna fucking ruin you,” he said into your ear. “Make you my girl. You wanna be my girl?” Then he started nudging his tip against your slit.

“Uh huh,” you breathed out cuz fuck even that felt good.

“Use your words,” he said.

Fuck. Fuuuuuck. “Yes, Sir,” you whimpered out the correction.

“Much better,” he groaned as he pushed into you. “Fuck!”

You were hugging him so tight like you were already trying to push him out. Sensitive pussy not able to handle him. “Shit, Chris. Fuck.”

“I don’t know why I didn’t put on a condom,” he groaned as he fucked into you. “I just… I wanna cum in you. So fucking bad. Just over and over and over.” He was getting so fucking deep. This man was really trying to fuck you into the mattress.

And you couldn’t even say anything back because it was just too damn much. What could you say. You’d already embarrassed yourself enough tonight. If you weren’t careful you’d end up crying from his dick again and you didn’t want him to stop again. You wanted him to never stop.

Fuck how the fuck are you already fucking cumming!

“Fuck you’re such a fucking Daddy,” you sobbed into his shoulder not being able to help it as the moniker slipped from your lips.

“Yeah? Am I?” He hissed. “Shit, Baby,” he groaned. Headboard slamming against the wall. “That’s it, Baby. I’ll be your fucking Daddy.”

“I can’t fucking take anymore,” you finally admitted.

“Don’t say that, Baby. You can give me one more. Just one more,” he groaned.

“I can’t,” you whimpered.

“Yes,” he thrust in really deep making you gasp, “you,” he withdrew until just the tip was in, “can.” And then he did it again where he went balls deep.

Swear to god you were so fucking like how was he doing this to you it didn’t make any fucking sense.

“Fucking hold it. Hold it for me,” he said going a little faster. “You got it. You can fucking do it. Gonna cum in you. This my pussy now. Fucking hear me?”

He was just so animalistic and you were barely hanging on. Eyes rolling to the back of your head. Losing your goddamn mind. How the fuck would he expect you to move on when he was doing this to you. Who the fuck else would be able to do this to you. You’d just gotten out of a four year relationship and you didn’t know you could cum like this until now. 

“Daddy, oh my god,” you sobbed again. “Fuck. I can’t hold on.”

“That’s okay,” he groaned. “Fuck. Cum for me.”

“Yeah?”

He nodded as his body got all ridged. Putting his hand around your neck as he started to feel his own orgasm catching up to him. “Fuck yeah. Cum for me, Y/N,” he said again.

Something about hearing him saying your name was just… it was all too much. Like everything was just too much. You couldn’t fucking stop. You knew your throat would be raw as hell in the morning.

It felt like he’d made you shatter into a million little pieces after having denied you while you had already had too much. Coupled with the feeling of him losing himself deep inside of you. Fuck. It was too much. And yet you know you wanted more.

“I think you broke me,” you whispered as he wrapped his arms around you. Sunlight had finally started to break through the curtains and he was barely letting you go.

Chris chuckled. Kissing your forehead. Sure you’d had little cat naps in between but each time he’d woken you up with kisses or by touching you. You were so fucking worn out. “I’m sorry. Alright come on. Let’s get some sleep.”

“Don’t you have somewhere to be?” You asked him.

He shook his head. “Nah. I’m gonna just take the day. Besides it’s a holiday. It’ll be fine.”

“Okay,” you replied. “Well, good. Cuz I don’t think I can move.”

Chris chuckled. “Don’t worry I’m not letting you go anywhere. I want you to get some rest, okay?”

You nodded as your eyes started to feel all heavy. Hell you didn’t think you could hold on anyway.

[neiptune]

worst boyfriend ever

pairing: tengen x female reader

wc: 1k

note: a lil something cause it's @milkyybuns birthday, i hope all you tengen lovers out there enjoy 🤍

Your birthday is not a big deal and you don't really care for gifts, that's what you always tell people anyway. It's not like you expect big gestures from anyone, especially from him. No red roses, expensive lingerie and definitely not that specific necklace he just knows very well you've been wanting for the longest time.

Honestly, you can deal with no gifts. You can deal with no birthday wishes. But not even a call? Not a text? Not even answering or returning your call? Come on.

It's the weekend, he's not at work, his family is out of town, so he has exactly zero excuses. Unless, well, he forgot. Which is fair, it can happen, well it never happened to you because you treasured and valued every bit of information you had about his life, but it's fair. Just where the hell did he disappear all day long? That's what you wondered while out with your friends for some late afternoon drinks, the screen of your phone filled with notifications and wishes you didn't really care about at that point.

It was almost dinner time when you got home, so emotionally exhausted you didn't really have the energy to do nothing else than take a bath and order a pizza. Well, maybe a pizza and a cheesecake, god damn it.

The sudden crash of something from your kitchen nearly gave you a heart attack as you were taking off your shoes in the doorway.

A burglar? On your fucking birthday? The one day your boyfriend decided to disappear into a black hole? Really?

"Get the fuck out, I'm this close to a mental breakdown and you don't want me calling the police in this state, asshole!", you shout, eyes frantically looking for the stupid baseball bat your boyfriend had jokingly left at your house because you never know and you can't fight for shit.

"That would be a bit drastic, don't you think?", someone shouted back from the kitchen, and your heart almost resumed its normal beating as you took in the warm, familiar, playful voice.

You took off your coat and threw it on a chair before entering the room which, you were finally able to realize, smelled intriguingly weird. Not really bad, just odd.

"Tengen?", you almost whispered, horrified as you looked at your boyfriend bent on the different pots surrounding your stove. It honestly looked like someone had thrown a bomb in the room.

"That's my name, don't wear it out!", he smirked looking at you for a split second before turning his attention to whatever he was cooking again.

"Stop quoting Grease", you scoffed, "how the hell did you get in?!"

"I know where you keep the spare key?"

"No, you don't?"

"I guessed. I'm not just a pretty face, I have a brain you know".

Lord.

You cautiously approached him and resisted the urge to plug your nose as the smell of whatever he was stirring reached you.

"So what's this? I mean, any particular reason why you're wrecking my kitchen and... putting together potatoes and spinach?"

He paused for a second, frozen in place.

"Wait, what were you allergic to? Spinach or kale?"

You couldn't hold back a laugh as he groaned and turned off the stove, wooden spoon abruptly let go of as the answer to his question dawned on him.

"Fuck", he whined, finally facing you, eyebrows furrowed in frustration.

"What is it, Ten?", you smiled, no longer upset because the sight of him was always enough for you to forget why you were mad in the first place. Well, not really always. Often enough though.

"It was supposed to be a surprise", he grumbled and you arched an eyebrow.

"I've been here all afternoon, I wanted to make you dinner. And a cake. But I burned the latter while trying to put together the former, Kanroji gave me a few lessons but I clearly forgot everything because you know how I always refuse to write shit down, so I decided to wing it but it didn't work and now your birthday is ruined and I'm a terrible boyfriend", he dramatically complained, eyes stubbornly fixed on his socks.

Your heart was immediately filled with a silly amount of happiness and relief, the sappy kind, the kind that was reserved to him only. How could you think that he'd forget? He never did. And also, he never cooked. It was the one thing he was bad at, even if you never really had the heart to tell him. Sometimes he'd insist on making something for you so you faked some dumb sandwich or cereal craving, anything he couldn't burn the house down with anyway. Nevertheless, he tried. Each time, he made an effort for you, and that day was no exception. And it made you stupid happy, the fact that he saw you as worth it of so much affection and devotion. Because you loved him an incredibly dumb, endless amount.

"Thank you", you smiled, hands finding his, lips placing a gentle kiss to his neck.

He scoffed.

"For what? There's nothing to eat. On your birthday!"

"That's debatable. I see some carrots over there, potatoes are almost cooked, and look at how well you cut those strawberries", you scanned the kitchen as you wrapped your arms around his waist.

"I even wore an apron", he pouted and you chuckled.

"I can see that, and you look very pretty in it. Tell you what, we can order some food and eat it in bed".

He tucked his hands in the back pockets of your jeans and pulled you closer.

"I will order some food. And cake. Sorry I couldn't do better", his voice was softer and apologetic as he leaned down to kiss you. You smiled against his lips and playfully tucked at his hair.

"Wanna make it up to me by joining me in the tub?"

His irises shined with a troublesome gleam you were all too familiar with.

"You sure you don't wanna eat something first? Cause I'm gonna take my time".

[blueroses789]

I wish I could be stronger

 Warnings:

Mental health issues

Smut

Angst

Domestic violence

next chapter: It’s over  

Chapter 8/?

Reiss  Apple Orchard: Chapter 8   

Note: So sorry for the late update. I’ve been sick for a while. I threw up almost two weeks ago and just felt really weak for a while (I don’t have covid). Anyway I feel much better physically and mentally. Hope you all enjoy!💕 

It had been another long exhausting week of studying and you were lying down onto your bed. You wanted to rest before another family dinner, which you didn’t want to go to. Why the hell did you want to meet the woman who walked out on you all those years ago? But it was important to at least see your father. A “ping” went off on your phone. Thinking it was one of your parents, you picked it up. Instead it was Eren. 

Eren: r u free next weekend? 

Y/n: I think so 

Eren: The gang is getting together and we’re heading to the reiss orchard 

You stared down at the text. A nervous pit had started in your stomach. While this wasn’t the first time you had been around Eren, it was the first time you had hung out as friends in six years. The thought made you nervous for some reason. Was it because it had been such a long time? Or because you liked Eren? Well, both. Deciding not to answer now, you got up. Muscles contracted painfully as you stood up. With a sigh you headed to the bathroom. Might as well treat yourself a bit before subjecting yourself to your mother. Historia was at work so you didn’t have to worry about her needing the washroom. You got one of your bath bombs from your stash of bathing products. You let out a sigh of relief as the hot water and and bath bomb esense surrounded you. It wasn’t bad to pamper yourself every now and then. 

How should you respond to Eren’s text. Say no? Or go? And of all the places why did it have to be the Reiss Orchard. You hadn’t gone there since Eren stopped being friends with you. It was too painful. It had been the place the two of you had gone to for years, so there seemed to be no reason to go back. That and it would be too painful. Afterwards you got dressed in a respectable dress your father would have approved of and left for his house. By the time you got there your mother was there as well. She was sitting with a glass of wine while your father was speaking to someone on the phone. 

“Dad?” Your mother looked up. 

“Honey! You're here earlier than expected.”  Your mother set down her wine glass. 

“Light traffic.” You said indifferently. Not wanting to be with your mother alone, you headed to the kitchen. Your father had just set down the phone. 

“Y/n.” He pulled you into an embrace and placed a kiss on your forehead. 

“Do you need help with dinner?” 

“ No dear, I’ve already cooked everything.” 

“Well I can help set the table.” You grabbed the plates from the cabinet and laid them on the table. Your mother stayed back as you and your father talked. Once everything was ready she finally joined you at the table. You could feel your mothers eyes on you. This happened every time you would come over. Her pleading look as you continued to ignore her, instead choosing to abandon her affections. Like she had done to you all those years ago. The night she left you had begged her to leave. Why did she have to leave? Why did she have to be so selfish? From that day on you had resolved to always think of others. You never wanted to be your mother. 

“You should come here next week.” Your father stated, giving your mother a meaningful look. Your mother looked right back at him. 

“You know I’m busy.” Your mother couldn't seem to be able to look at you. 

“What do you mean busy?” F/n pressed further. Your mother shrunk further. 

“I mean I’ll be there just later-” But it seemed your father didn’t want to hear it. 

“This is the only day of the week you see your daughter and you spend it with Jared!” You turned to glare at your mother. 

“Who’s Jared?” With a vicious gleam in his eye, your father turned to you. 

“Your mothers new boyfriend. It seems like he’s now more important than….well, her family.” He was shaking with rage. Anger and hurt boiled up inside of you. So now your mother cared so little that she was making no effort to see you. Even if you didn’t want to see her, the thought of her own mother not giving a damn bothered her. 

“How about you stop being selfish and see your daughter, yeh?” Your father said. 

Two hours after that uncomfortable conversation you were in your car driving. Your hands gripped the wheel tightly as you tried to remain calm. You were so fucking angry with your mother. If she didn’t want to come next week, fine. But you would hold this against her. 

When you got to your dorm, Historia was asleep. You brushed your teeth and got into bed. Looking at your phone, you went to the messages between you and Eren. How would Eren feel if you did not attend? He just wanted to be friends again. You didn’t want to be your mother. 

Y/n: Sure 

You press send. 

The day had arrived. You and Historia got ready to leave together. Then you headed down to the front doors to wait for the gang to pick you two up. Sometimes on these trips Ymir would tag along. Thankfully she was currently in Marley. Good riddance. 

In the Jeep was Jean (the driver) and Armin who was in the front seat. 

“Y/n! Long time no see!” Jean hollered out. You smiled and waved at him. Armin stuck his head out and waved. You noticed his hair was short. 

“Armin! Your hair!” You ran up to him to check it out. He flushed as you gasped. All his life Armin had shoulder length hair. It was definitely different, but not bad. 

“It’s because he’s trying to impress Annie.” Historia said nonchalantly as she got into the car. 

“What!?” Armin squeaked. 

“Oh c’mon man, we all know.” Jean scoffed. For the rest of the drive the three of you pestered Armin about his crush on Annie. 

“You loooooove her!” You teased as Armin rushed out of the car, probably to save himself from the three pesterers. Historia giggled and chased after him, no doubt to annoy him. You stayed with Jean as he locked his car, not wanting to leave him alone. You looked out at the snow covered fields. Memories of years past seemed to flash before you. It brought a painful lurch to your stomach. You once again wondered why you agreed to this. 

“You okay?” Jean placed a hand on your shoulder. 

 “It’s been a while.” You looked down at your boots. The truth was, you just wanted to curl up into yourself. It was almost too much. Jean linked his arm with yours as the pair of you headed inside. The building was like one of those old fancy ski lodges. A large fireplace was in the middle of the lobby, holy hung from banisters and a large Christmas tree was proudly standing in the corner. 

‘Wow. Forgot how big this was.” You took everything in. Historia and Armin were sitting on a sofa drinking hot chocolate. Historia handed you a cup along with the words “it’s on the house”. Of course it was. The Reiss family owned this place, or rather, Historia’s uncle did. Historia hadn’t been on the best terms with her family. Rod Reiss was a pig in every way. Historia had been the child of an affair, because of this her father had no involvement in her childhood. When Historia’s grandfather died, his will stated that all the children and grandchildren were entitled to his inheritance. It was then that Historia’s mother Alma came out with Rod’s child and kicked up a fuss. Uri Reiss, Historia’s Uncle, forced his brother to acknowledge the child as his. Uri had filled a sort of father figure role in her life. Alma wasn’t a great mother so Historia moved out when she was sixteen. Uri took her in, as well as her sister Abel (who also wasn’t close with her father). Historia had minimal contact with most of her family, with the exceptions of Uri, Abel and Freida. Uri owned this estate, thus Historia could come whenever she wanted, free of charge. You joined her on the couch and Historia handed you a cup. With a yawn you set your head on her shoulder and zoned out as they continued to tease Armin. You just wanted to sleep. Maybe you shouldn’t have come. 

“Hey guys!” You said your head to see Sasha, Connie, Niccolo (Sasha's boyfriend) and Reiner. 

Sasha ran and practically bowled you and Historia over. 

“It’s been forever. Oh!” Sasha spotted the hot chocolate and her attention was immediately diverted. 

“Where’s Bert and Annie?” You asked. 

“Couldn't make it.” Connie said. Armin suddenly looked uncomfortable. 

“Where did they go?” He asked timidly. 

“Bert had to go home. His dad’s sick so he needs his help. Annie already made plans with Hitch.” Armin’s shoulders sagged with relief. You gently squeezed his shoulder. Armin gave a small smile and nodded in understanding. Bert and Annie had been close causing some people to believe they had feelings for each other. You didn’t want Armin to go through what you were. 

“Hey Y/n, sit here.” Reiner patted the place next to him. You obliged. 

“How's school?” Reiner asked. 

“It’s fine. Busy of course. You?” 

“Well I’m going to Marley soon. I was wondering-”  Reiner never finished his sentence. With an annoyed look, he glared at the entrance. Eren and Mikasa had walked in. Immediately you noticed something was wrong. While Eren looked fine, the same could not be said with Mikasa. She looked tired, like she had been up all night. You waved her over. Immediately Mikasa left Eren’s side and rushed to meet you. 

“Rough night?” You held her hand. She nodded. You suspected something more. You guessed that she had been at Eren’s the night before since you hadn’t heard her last night. Did something happen between her and Eren?

Mikasa was at her wits end. Endless fights and frosty mornings seemed to be her life now. All she wanted to do was help Eren. And every time she did, he shoved her away. She cared for him, yes. But her feelings had changed. It wasn’t love like it had been. Was it that hard to want someone to hold her? To care for her? She looked at Y/n. Mikasa couldn't help but notice her thick lashes, bright e/c eyes, and her cute nose. She absentmindedly started to play with Y/n’s fingers. Eren walked towards her and she internally groaned. He sat beside her, but made no move to talk to her. That was fine. It had started last night. After their date, they had come across a boy being robbed by two highschoolers. Eren had taken off, running after the two boys. Mikasa was left behind to deal with the frightened boy. Later on they meet back at Eren’s dorm. Armin was elsewhere that night so he was allowed to bring his girlfriend over for the night. That night Mikasa had given him the silent treatment. She was angry with him, but was also pissed at Eren. The next morning had been frosty, and not because of the weather. Instinctively, Mikasa placed an arm around Y/n’s waist. 

“Hey Mikasa, a word?” Jean asked. Mikasa looked at Y/n. She smiled and Mikasa got up. They headed into the lobby. Jean placed his back against the wall, arms crossed. For a few moments there was silence as she waited. 

“Do you still want to be with Eren? Because if not, you need to leave.” Mikasa closed her eyes. Tears welled up in her eyes. She so rarely cried in front of anyone. She already knew what she wanted to do, but was scared. She remembered the green eyed ten years old boy who needed her. But this wasn’t working. 

“Do you want to be with him.” Jean repeated him. A tear rolled down her pale face. Jean walked forward and pulled her into his arms. She cried into his coat. 

“Anyone know where Mikasa and Jean are?” Y/n looked around. They had disappeared about ten minutes ago, and still had not come back. In the meantime, Eren had started to talk with you. 

“How’s your train set going?” You asked. 

“I actually finished it. All I need to do is paint it. Wanna come over to help?” You beamed at him. 

“I'd love to.” He grinned. He handed you another cup of hot chocolate. You sipped the hot drink. 

“We should head you. Everyone here?” Historia looked around. 

“Jean and Mikasa disappeared a while ago.” Reiner said. 

“Here.” Jean waved at you guys as he walked up to the group, Mikasa on his tail. Jean glared at Eren as he put on his hat. As soon as everyone was ready Historia led the way outside. 

“It’s always pretty here.” Armin exclaimed as the looked at the snow covering the grounds like a blanket. It was like stepping back in time. Back when you were just a kid without a care in the world. A hand placed itself on your shoulder. You looked up to see Reiner looking down at you. 

“Having fun?” He asked. 

“Yeah.” Wanna go to the orchard?” You had the mad desire to walk between the rows of frozen trees blanketed in slow. Maybe it was for closure or something. Or maybe it was because you missed the way things were. Silently you and Reiner walked side by side. It felt like only yesterday that you were a middle school running between the rows. And for one second the snow melted, birds sang and the sweet smell of apples hung in the air. You eyes widened as for one moment all your pain went away. 

And then it was gone. You were standing up to your ankles in snow, beside Reiner. Your breath seemed to be taken away as everything seemed to hit you. Everything that had been lost. Reiner was speaking but it fell on deaf ears. You had been so caught up in your emotions that everything else seemed to be blocked out. Suddenly Reiner grabbed your hand . You stopped and looked up at him. He opened his mouth to say something but never had the chance to. 

“That's it! We're over!” You and Reiner looked at one another. 

“What the hell was that?”               

I really looked forward to doing this chapter because it sets up a lot. If your wondering why I included the scene with the parents it’s because I wanted to explain why y/n is a bit of a doormat.       

Tag list:  

@jaegersdiary

@didiyogo    

@jeagersruletheworld

@maya3km  

@casinorose  

@erenjeagerwifee 

[lucilleandherrobots]

[question for Lucille if you accept them] What’s your fondest memory of your dad? Your worst one?

Lucille: Which one...? Ah what the hell. I'll answer for both.

Lucille: For my biological father, hard to choose a good memory cause there's plenty! Though I suppose the best one would be the night before I married Nate. He had an old truck at the time. Had it since I was a little girl and we used to camp under the stars when I was a child... this one was special... we talked about my mom, how we wished she'd be there to walk me down the isle. We talked about the wedding, what married life was like after that...

Lucille thinks back to that fond memory and recalls it well...

Gardio: Marriage might change you, it might not. Remember to stay true to yourself... I know this in itself is one big compromise, that this isn't how you wanted things to be. Remember, I'm always here for you, angel. *pets her hair* It's not too late to call off the wedding...

Lucille: No... I want to do this... It isn't just for me. It's also for Nate. He's my best friend... it keeps eyes off of both of our backs if we're married.

Gardio: *nods and kisses his little girl's forehead* Tomorrow, I'll have to give my little light away... *sniffs*

Lucille: I don't like that phrase... I'm still going to be your daughter, aren't I?

Gardio: Of course... But you're all grown up. Just yesterday you were learning how to walk. Now you're getting married. Next you'll be having a kid! It's moving so fast, I can't keep up!

Lucille: Maybe you're getting too old to keep up.

Gardio: Or maybe someone needs to slow down so this old man can keep up.

Lucille: No way...! Hush and look at the stars!

Gardio: *smiles* But I have a little star shining bright right next to me, so full of life and about to start a new one tomorrow. Why would I ever look up at the burnt out ones long dead in the depths of space?

Lucille: Because even the burnt out ones are beautiful? *smiles back*

Gardio: *fakes a wounded look* Ooh! Got your old man good! *laughs and looks to the sky*

Lucille looks down at the food she's cooking for another long mission...

Lucille: Of course my worst memory...? He came after my gang, the Red Fox. We were a band of Robin Hood vigilantes that stole from the upper class well-to-do folks... I hid but I saw one of our members get caught and interrogated roughly by one of the officers on the case.

Lucille: *throws a slab of Mutant hound meat on to cook with some tasty ingredients* My father thankfully stepped in before things got out of control... but lets just say the beatings and derogatory names Jackie endured so they'd rat everyone out were too much before my father intervened.

Lucille: *loudly cleaving Mutant hound meat* I don't know if he was frightened, scared, or just a coward, but I found it difficult to talk to my father for a while after that. Jackie didn't talk, obviously. They were used to keeping confidential information out of the hands of the police- they were a psychiatrist, you see...

Lucille: *whiping her hands clean as she prepares to handle some radstag meat* Now Nick? Heh. What can I say about the detective that hasn't been said before? Honestly, I love his stories- the one about pretending to be a bomb is my favorite. And not even when he took on my case when no one else would. No. It's when I first got back from the Institute...

She throws the radstag steaks onto the stove as she recalls the memory.

Lucille: *zaps back just outside of the Mercer Safehouse* Oh god... I never thought I'd be so glad to see dead trees and mutated plant life but here we are... *she walks toward the settlement*

Curie: Mamoiselle! You've returned! *already running down the hill in her Mechanist armor to give the power armor clad sole survivor a big hug* We have missed you, so!

Hancock: *sauntering down with Dogmeat at his side* Hey! Look who's back among the mostly living! Just one question, how do we know it's really you in there and not some clone?

Lucille: It's me you guys. Truly.

Curie: So, what was it like? Oh please tell me! I do not have the luxury of going with you so I must hear every detail for my studies!

Lucille: *laughs playfully* In time, Curie. I'll probably be going back to complete the operation... Where's Nick?

Hancock: At the work shop, keeping busy. Dude's been real quiet. I think he's worried you got lost in there. It's been about what? Almost two weeks before you went flying off into the unknown?

Lucille: I see. Better go say hi, then. *starts going up the hill...

Nick: *looking over some old case files at the work bench*

Lucille: Nick...

Nick: *freezes, hearing the familiar voice. He looks up to see the power armor she left in* Lucille? Is it really you?

Lucille: No one else.

Nick: *looks so relieved* When you didn't come back, I started to have my doubts. I thought maybe the Institute got their hooks into you or worse-

Lucille: *voice breaks* I found Shaun... He... he's an old man... I missed 60 years of his life while I was frozen in stasis.

Nick: *surprised* That's- Luce, I'm so sorry.

Lucille: That's not all... he's the director of the Institute... He's their leader... *feels like she's going to break down and cry. She slips out of the power armor so she can sit down* 60 years Nick... and he's one of the monsters we've been fighting.

Nick: *sits next to her* Hey, the world isn't quite over yet... Things could still turn around. Let's take it one day at a time. We'll see what the world throws at us.

Lucille: *sniffs* Thanks, Nick...

Lucille sighs over the rad stag steaks, nearly done cooking.

Lucille: It's not the most happy memory... but Nick... I was surprised by how much he worried for me. The worst came with the destruction of the Prydwen... but I won't dwell on that, too much.

Lucille: *she finishes her cooking, wraps it in tin and throws it in her bag. She smiles at you, a settler in one of her settlements that got curious about the General's past* Thanks for the questions. Not many people other than Nick and Curie ask about my past so it was good to get it off my chest. *she turns to the wastes and starts to leave. Well! Best of luck! I'm off to gather more scrap and save some wayward Synths!

[blonde-in-charge]

Wildcard, Chapter One

** Hello everyone! My name is Kat, and this is the first imagine I have ever posted! I am still really new to the posting process so please stick with me. Anyways, I hope you enjoy **

Summary: Steve Rogers found you on the side of the road after a mission involving Hydra and convinced the Avengers to take you in. You have no name, no memories, and no idea of what you are capable of. All you know is that you are a super soldier with more hidden abilities than you care to admit. The first step to finding answers was to train you. Nobody, including you, knows what is up your sleeve. 

Characters: No Pairings(yet) Steve Rogers, Bucky Barnes, Natasha Romanoff, Tony Stark, Sam Wilson

Warnings: Tiny bit of cursing, Loss of memory, Mentions of blood/violence, Scars

Words: 3.3k

Waking with a start, you groaned at the action of shifting your legs between the scratchy sheets. Your legs tightened and strained from the previous day, making you unable to move comfortably. Sitting up, you hiss as you strained to throw your legs ofthe side of the bed. It was quiet, for once, in the tower. On any other normal day, you would hear the group you lived with from down the hallway, chatting loudly over breakfast and laughing. You glared over at the angry red numbers projecting themselves into the air. 

4:45am

Shit.

Pulling your arms up over your head, you stretched your aching muscles until you heard the satisfying popping noise come from one of your elbows. You pushed yourself off of the bed and sighed as your legs took on the weight of your body. You ached like never before even just standing still. You felt up your nightstand in the dark, knocking over random half drunk water bottles in the attempt to find your glasses. Satisfied when your fingertips took hold of the lenses, uncaring of the fingerprints you knew would bother you later. The door automatically slid open as you walked towards it, slowly and not picking up your feet. One of the perks of living with Tony Stark was that you never had to open a door on your own, the downside was you had the misfortune of walking into non automatic doors on the rare occasion you left the tower.  

The halls were silent in the tower, making the shuffling of your feet seem louder than they should have been. As you walked past the doors of your colleagues you could hear soft snoring from one of the rooms and louder snoring from further down the hallway. You smiled to yourself, knowing your friends were getting what you couldn't, sleep. It wasn't like you tried to get less hours of sleep than everyone else, your mind and body have not let you rest since you have joined the team. 

-Eight Months Ago- 

You sobbed, curling yourself as tightly into a ball as you could, holding your hands to your chest as your hair whipped through the air. You had secluded yourself into the corner of an abandoned gas station in god knows where. You had no idea where you were, how you got there, what was happening, or even who you were. You had woken up on a cold metal table in a concrete room wearing nothing but a sports bra and tight training pants that stopped at your ankles. You don’t remember how but you broke the cuffs holding down your wrists and ankles, leaving bloody gashes in their wake. 

Your attention was drawn to the sound of heavy footsteps nearing you as you pushed yourself into the wall, begging to just disappear through it, “Please don’t take me back” you sobbed, hot tears rolling down your face, “I don’t know anything just let me go!”

Uncovering your face you looked up into a man's face. He looked relatively young with his blonde hair but the worry lines he was sporting upon looking at you aged him. 

He knelt down in front of you keeping his distance, “Shhh, I’m not here to hurt you, I’m here to help you. What's your name, kid?” He studied your face with kind blue eyes, his gaze felt instantly calming.

“I- I don’t- I don’t know,” you stared at him in disbelief, how could you not know your own name? The man looked at you and nodded before looking behind him and speaking so someone you could not see

“Guys, I found a girl about 10 miles out from the compound, she is in pretty rough shape. Have the quinjet meet at my coordinates ASAP,” He spoke softly around you but in a commanding tone until he nodded, apparently getting answers from the voices you could not hear. His eyes trailed back to your eyes, searching you. His eyes then trailed down to your hands clutched at your chest and they filled with worry. 

You looked down at your own hands stretching them in front of you, there were deep cuts on either one of your wrist running all the way around until they met in a circle, and they were bleeding profusely onto your exposed stomach. You looked back up at the man, suddenly extremely light headed and you watched his figure fade away into darkness as you passed out. 

-

The coffee maker trickled the dark liquid slowly into the pot, a sound that soothes your nerves every early morning. You wished you could go back to sleep but everyone would be getting up soon anyways, and coffee was calling your name. Whatever that was. The minutes ticked by as the coffee pot filled up and you realized you had stood there unmoving, staring at a whisk while trapped in your own mind. You reached up into the cabinet for your favorite mug and hissed as your muscles protested the sudden movement. You felt the presence of someone behind you as you poured the fragrant liquid into the mug. 

“Didn't we have that talk with you about announcing your presence in rooms when you entered, Buck?” You held the mug in both hands and turned around to lean against the countertop.

The brooding soldier stood before you with his resident scowl on his face and long brunette hair sticking up in every direction. Your eyes scanned over the man sporting black tee shirt and sweatpants, the circles under his eyes matching his outfit. He looked as if he slept as well as you did. He studied you for a second, his eyes questioning why you were awake.

You watched him carefully, “Bad dream,” was all you offered to him before he gave a knowing nod before looking away from you, his actions told you he was up for the same reason. He took a seat at the island in the middle of the vast kitchen and rubbed his hands up over his face as you made him a mug of coffee. Bucky took his coffee black, with one sugar, while your coffee had to be the color of your sheets with at least four sugars. Like the bad ass you were. He gripped the mug with his flesh hand, allowing himself to feel the heat of it before he sipped it. You two sat together in a comfortable silence that was familiar with the both of you. Your relationship with Bucky was the strongest of any relationships in the group (besides yours with Steve) despite your lack of communication. Both of you had seen the same hell and understood each other on the deepest level. Bucky never looked at you longer than necessary, even when speaking he kept his head down, he only ever looked at you when you weren't looking, to study you. Everyone in the tower treated him as a time bomb, except for you because you understood the trauma he has experienced. You had been in the tower long before Bucky had joined. The reason you were found was because they were looking for Bucky. 

A new set of footsteps caught your attention and pulled you out of your thoughts of the dark soldier. The familiar and heavy footsteps rounded the corner and met your face with a refreshed smile. You gave him a half smile, “Morning Capt.” 

Steve smiled at you over his shoulder as he opened the fridge, “Good morning, kid. Good morning, Buck,” He started pulling out different ingredients for the breakfast he was planning on making, but every morning you take over that process because Steve hasn't cooked ever in his life. As he pulled foods out, you pulled out pans and made your way over to the stove

You busied yourself with making scrambled eggs and bacon while letting your mind wander. Your relationship with Steve was strong, you had been inseparable since he brought you to the tower because of the sense of comfort he gave you. Steve had been extremely protective of you when it came to the other team members, he was always worried you would get over-stimulated or someone would cross a line with you. He was the best friend who let you sleep in his bed when you had nightmares but also would hold you down when your line of sanity breaks. That was another thing you and Bucky had in common, everyone was waiting for you to snap. If the power went out in the tower, your room and Bucky’s room would be the only two doors that lock and stay locked. You were also suspicious that Tony’s interface, Friday, sends Steve notifications of when you leave your room at night or if your heart rate elevates unexpectedly, because Steve always was there out of pure chance. 

“She's doing that thing again,” The voice snapped you out of your deep thought and you looked up into the face of Sam, “Mornin, Hot Stuff,” He grinned at you, the stupid grin that he did when he referred to you as one of your ever changing nicknames, “How did you sleep?” 

You finished plating the mountain of bacon you had made while distracted and ignored the question, “Would you like a cup of coffee, Sammy?” you asked as you turned around to face him and place the food on the island as the rest of the Avengers seemed to file in. 

You weren't surprised to see Bucky had already escaped the kitchen quietly, he never sat in one place for too long. Steve had watched you with concerned eyes, which made you realize he caught the part where you ignored Sam’s question. You shrugged to yourself, I can survive on two hours, I’ll be fine. Natasha came and touched your shoulder, “Gym in an hour, resuming our session from yesterday.”

You sighed, you were still so sore from yesterday's training. You could barely sit in a chair without your muscles locking up so how did she expect you to train again? Yesterday consisted of 100 weighted squats, but your weight was Steve Rogers. Nat really liked to make you work on the thing you struggle with the most, your strength. When you first came to the tower, you had broken the bathroom door, actually you didn't break it, when you tried opening it, you basically threw it across the room and broke a lamp. Your current favorite mug is the 12th favorite mug since you have been here and Sam refuses to give you a fist bump because you broke his hand the last time, you cringed at the memory. You made your way to your bedroom and pulled out a sports bra and leggings. Most of the clothes you owned were either Natasha's or free Avengers merchandise. You made your way to the bathroom and removed your glasses to put your contacts in, you wondered if you had always had trouble seeing distances, not that you could remember. You looked at yourself in the mirror, the (y/e/c) eyes staring back at you looked so tired and unfamiliar. You brushed down the wild mane that was your hair and pulled it into a tight braid. You opted to wear a long sleeve tee shirt to cover the nasty scars that littered your body from your rescue, you knew no one cared but you did not need a reminder. 

-

Natasha was ready before the hour was up and you knew it. You always met her early in hopes of ending the session early, but that never happened. The training room was located three floors down from you and it took up the entire floor. Nat was standing in the sparring ring in the center of the room with Tony and Steve.

“Do I have to squat both of you?” the whine was evident in your voice and Steve chuckled

“No, we are going to help you learn to control your powers,” He gave you a slight smile and you could sense the anxiety in his voice

“Which ones?” You raised an eyebrow at him and he looked at Tony

Tony cracked his neck, “The ones we know of, hopefully those are the only ones but you have been known to surprise us,” Tony sounded slightly annoyed, you knew he was not your biggest fan, “but I came prepared.” He slapped the fire extinguisher at his side like a new car 

Natasha looked at you sensing your discomfort at the situation, “where do you want to start?”

-Eight Months Ago-

You woke up with a start, one second you were in front of this man and the next in a bright room. You blinked rapidly to adjust your eyes to the light as you sat up to take in your surroundings. You were in a small room of glass that separated you from a larger room that looked like a medical office from the future. You felt your arms and looked down to see deep white set scars that circled both of your wrists. You looked up and made eye contact with the man that saved you before as he made his way to your room and stepped in. He had a soft smile on his face as he glanced at you, “Mind if I sit?” he asked, gesturing to the chair at your left you didn't even realize was there. You nodded at him silently and he took his seat while watching you examine your scars, “I hope you got some rest, you have been through a lot the last couple of hours.”

Your head shot up as you looked at him, you opened your mouth to speak and let out a barely audible, “Hours?” You remember the slices in your wrist, they were so deep, how could this heal in hours? You looked at the man for some sort of explanation but he offered none

“My name is Steve, I was the one that found you last night. Do you remember that?” You nodded your head once again, “That's good, do you remember how you got where you were when I found you?”  

You were a million miles away trying to remember anything. You remember the room you woke up in, the way you tore yourself off of the table, the blood, and then all you could remember was fire and the howling of the wind in your ears as you ran. As if he read your mind, Steve nodded at you and combed his fingers through his hair. He stood up and left the glass cubicle for a second to speak to a woman outside. The woman then followed him in and started to unhook you from the various monitors around you before she stepped out of the room. Steve looked at you questionably before offering his hand and asking, “Do you think you can walk?” You nodded and slid your legs over the side of the bed and pushed yourself up onto your feet, holding Steve's hand for balance. He watched you take a couple of steps before he was confident you would be okay, “Follow me.”

-

You huffed out a breath that made the hair hanging in front of your face jump. Your body was screaming at you to let it rest but Natasha’s training was resilient. Tony had resorted to putting on one of his iron suits to protect himself from you. You looked at Nat and she simply nodded, “Again.” You sighed loudly and used all of your might to focus on the suit in front of you. Fire suddenly engulfed your hands and reached up to your elbows as well as your feet up until your knees. Your eyes had turned into flames that flickered out of the socket as you made a fist and punched Tony’s suit in the center of the chest, where his power source was. The lights in the suit flickered out as well as the flames engulfing your body. You looked over at Nat expectantly and she nodded in approval. You huffed out a sigh of exhaustion and doubled over with your hands on your knees. Your vision was spotty from the amount of power you put into the set but Natasha and Tony were relentless. “Stand up, we are moving onto the next set.”

“I’m fucking tired,” You hissed as you stood up straight, “Give me a second.”

Natashas stone look reamined, “You won't have a second if Hydra comes after you again.”

You flinched at the name, Hydra. No one has spoken that word around you since you joined the tower and rightfully so, the name burned through you and you felt your body start to heat with anxiety before Tony cleared his throat, “Look power puff, lets just get the next set finished and you can go back to hating the world after, yeah?” He clapped his hands together and faced you while ignoring Nat’s glare from the corner. 

You pushed the hair back from your sweaty forehead, “Fine, which set?” You took your stance across from the suit with your hands out in front of you, ready to wield whatever he asked for. 

You could hear the smirk in his voice, “Surprise me.” You shut your eyes to concentrate, then you felt the power creep up your skin from a dark place within you, causing goosebumps to rise. Your eyes opened and locked with the target in front of you. You swirled your hands around watching as frost covered the floor, creeping its way towards Tony before it encapsulated the feet of the suit with thick blocks of ice. The suit itself did not completely freeze over on the outside, you were forcing your abilities inside the suit, trying to force the millionaire out. The suit cracked in some spots and opened as a safety precaution to a worried Tony Stark, who was shivering enough to shake the ring. You barely hear Natashas voice as you watch the ice creep slowly up Tony’s body, his wide eyes staring at you with fear. 

“y/n!”

Your name snapped you out of the trance you had been in and you focused on the situation. Tony was almost completely trapped in a frozen block and Natasha’s feet were frozen to the floor of the ring, both of them staring at you with wide eyes. You turned around to face Steve as he stared at you with concern written all over his face. Your words caught in your throat, “I didn't mean- I’m- “ You turned back towards Natasha and Tony and forced the ice to creep back from them. Tony fell out of the suit onto his knees with a gasp, holding his arms and shivering violently. 

“Tony, I am so sorry, I don't know what-” Tony held a shaking hand up to you and you looked down at your feet.

“S-save it, k-kid.” He looked at you and leaned back to sit on the ground, “This is what I get for helping train th-the new kid.” He sighed and closed his eyes before laying back against the ground, “No hard feelings, Frozone. Just give me a minute and take the day off.”  

You watched him with worried eyes and turned back to Steve, who was mirroring your expression but not for Tony. You shrugged your shoulders and walked over to him, hanging your head low. He reached out to touch your shoulder but you flinched at the sudden movement. Steve stopped his hand and then dropped it, letting it hang limply at his side while studying you. You gave him an apologetic look before walking away towards the elevator. 

[arcadejohn127-9]

How would the demon brothers [+ undatebles if you can no biggie tho if not] be with an MC who is plus sized and is super insecure about it? Like they try to get skinnier but can't and they get upset about it or get teased by other demons for being bigger. Side note: your writings are INCREDIBLE. Just like you 🤗💜🎆⭐

Thank you for the request and the compliment! You're too kind!

Oof weight lose and being bullied for my size is something I know abit too well, I always feel sad when I see plus sized people Insecure about their weight

I'm all for people wanting to lose weight to be healthy or just wanting change but when it stems from self hated and an unhealthy mindset - I just can't stand it

Demon brother's with a plus sized MC who's insecure

Warning: angst with fluff

Lucifer:

He isn't a man who's to shy away from being rude and blunt to people

He wouldn't date someone for pity or lie

When he learned you were trying to loose weight

He and the other brothers all treated it how Asmo's diets go, he tries and fails and everyone makes no real effort to not tempt him with food

When he found you crying in your bedroom however

"What's the matter? You're crying, what has upset you?"

"You." Was all you said, trying to calm yourself

He, of course, wanted to know what he did

He kept pestering you until you finally snapped at him

"You're treating my wants like it's a joke! I want to lose weight and none of you are being supportive of it! Why can't you just let me do something for myself?!"

He was taken back

He sat beside you, taking your hand in his

"Why do you want to lose weight? This plan has come rather unexpectedly."

"Because I'm too big! Everyone thinks so! No matter what I do all nothing works! Don't you think I'm ugly?"

"Since when did being big equate to being ugly? Are your height makes you ugly?"

"my height...? What does that-"

"Weight isn't something we can always change like our height, some people just can't change their physical appearance, it can only happen naturally and even then it may be a small amount gained or lost."

"I think I get what you mean."

"I hate admiting this but- I'm not good at this kind of thing but I think you look wonderful, if you really wish to go on a diet I'll support you but it needs to come from a healthy and non destructive mindset."

He poked. your forehead before kissing your hand

Mammon:

"Mammon? Don't you get embarassed when you're out with me."

"You are pretty embarassing sometimes."

He wasn't pay too much attention, not catching up on your tone

"Oh.....I see....maybe I shouldn't come out with you tonight."

You already didn't want to go out, the outfit Mammon got you - whilst it looked expensive - was tight on you

"HUH?! now what's this all about? You trying to quit on the great mammon?!"

"Well- I'm much bigger than the demons you hang around with, aren't you ashamed? They're way more attractive than-"

He rushed to your side, gripping your arms

"Don't even finish that sentence, ya hear?! Who told you - you didn't look fucking fantastic?! No one talks to my baby like that!"

"But it's true-"

"I swear on Goldie that isn't true! You are the most stunning jewel I've seen, I'm so lucky to be with someone that looks like you! You're personality is already top notch - your body is like a shiny bonus I don't think I deserve!"

He pulled you into a hug, holding you like you were the most valuable thing to him

"You're gorgeous, just tell me who's been bullying you and I'll make sure they know their place, I never want you to feel like that."

Levithan:

Levi was showing off this cast of anime style chatacters from the game he was playing

All of them were so thin and muscular

Everyone had the perfect curve and ideal bodies

"We should cosplay these characters! Don't worry, you don't need to know everything about them - I think you'd really pull off this one, you two already have the same personality."

You looked down at yourself and then back at the Character

You frowned, clutching your stomach

"Really....? But they're so- well look at me!"

He looked at you, raising a brow as he tried to find what you were getting at

"They're a warrior who saved the universe with a knife, it's not supposed to be realistic-"

"I'm talking about my shape, levithan! I'm fat! I'm disgusting! They're built like a god!"

"YOU'RE built like a god! There's plenty of Gods from your worlds stories that are shaped like you! What's the issue?"

"you didn't even deny I was disgusting, those demons were right-"

"What demons?! Are you seriously letting some normies tell you you're gross? What do they know? I'm the luckiest demon alive to be with you and those demons can choke on salt water - you point them out and I'll get my army on them!"

"you really think that? You wouldn't like more if I looked more like your smile chatacters?"

"Media is based of toxic media where they focus on only one type of beauty standard, it's a problem within the game world that they don't add plus sized chatacters."

"i- yeah I guess so....I didn't expect you to really care about that."

"of course I care!"

You both sat in silence, you were processing his words and leaned against his shoulder

"Do you still want to cosplay together?"

You paused before nodding

You both went through the game he's playing, whenever the overly vain chatacter came out levithan would argue with them

Claiming you to be the most gorgeous being in the world not them

Satan:

"I heard some rumours today, have demons been bothering you about your weight?"

You froze as Satan closed his book, shifting in the seat

You stepped back, avoiding eye contact, regretting coming to your room instead of helping mammon with some silly plan

"No...there's been no issue."

"Oh? Then why is there laxatives and diet guides in your school bag? You know I don't like it when you lie to me especially if it means you could be putting your body at risk."

You noticed your bag beside his feet

You immediately grew frustrated as you knew you were being called out

"Why did you go through my bag?! That's my own bussiness-"

"you said I could get my textbooks back, I found them in your bag - I'm sorry I went through your stuff but this isn't fine! You're going to force your body to push itself unnaturally."

"I just- i just want to get thinner, no matter how many times I try it doesn't work! I'm tired of seeing myself in the mirror and people telling me that you don't actually love me-"

"Some people just don't have it easy when it comes to weight lose, going on a diet isn't the best - I can go on cooking duty more often and make sure you have healthier meals."

He was at your side now, stroking your face

"Do you love me....? Truely?"

"of course I do, I've never loved anyone as much as I love you - you make me feel things I never thought i would, your size is the last of my concerns, I'm just scared you're going to hurt yourself."

You nodded, tearing up as you let him hold you closer

You tried to apologize but he silenced you, telling you that your emotions are valid

Asmodeus:

"Darling~! Let's take a bath together, I just got a new bath bomb and some soaps!"

He shook the mini basket filled with bath product's

"really...? Are you sure you want to do that, I'm not sure, I feel really bloated today-"

You were desperate to avoid getting naked Infront of him

Every once and a while he would ask to take a bath together, he respects your discomfort but wants to keep the offer open

"Oh, that's no issue~ we can have some tea Barbatos gave me, it's great for bloating!"

"why do you wanna see me naked so much? I'm not anything to see - wouldn't you be uncomfortable?"

"Uncomfortable? Why would I feel that?"

"In not the smallest person around-"

"Means you got more to love! I love your body!"

"But you're so gorgeous and slender, why would you ever love my body?"

He couldn't understand your feelings; confused on how you could see yourself in a negative light

"because I love you more than myself, I'm still the most special demon around but you're just something else, something I could never stop adoring!"

Beezlebub:

"Do you want to go eat with me? hell's kitchen is having a party."

Beel peered into your room, showing the hell's kitchen site

"I'm not sure about that, I've been trying to cut down on my eating."

"what? Why? Are you sick?"

He immediately got concerned, shuffling over to you

He placed the back of his hand on your forehead

"No- I'm not sick, I just think I should loose some weight."

"oh....then you can still go eat with me, I'll just eat more of your portions."

"you don't have any issue with me losing weight?"

Your insecurities started to chew at you

You weren't really sure what you wanted; you wanted him to be cruel and straight forward about hating your body

It would make your feelings feel more grounded

But you couldn't bare it if he didn't like your body

"It's your choice - should I be concerned?"

"no way! It would be for the best anyway, right? Atleast then I'll look better-"

"What does your weight have you to do with your looks? I think you look fine."

"you don't think I'm too big? Wouldn't you prefer someone more petite? I know you like small things-"

"I like you, I don't see any issue with your body."

It did feel a little ridiculous to think the avatar of gluttony would be bothered by your size but you still couldn't help but feel worried

He suddenly picked you up, kissing your cheek

"I can hold you in my arms just fine, your size will never stop me from liking you, I think you're beautiful."

Belphegor:

He was laying on your thigh's, watching a video comp of people falling over and getting hurt

"Should I loose weight?"

His phone was suddenly dropped on his stomach, staring up at with you surprise

"Why do you ask? Besides, it's not my decision to make - it's your body."

"yeah but wouldn't you prefer it if I was, ya know, thinner?"

He looked at you as if you just said something stupid

Adjusting his position snuggled against your thigh's

"Why would I prefer that? You wouldn't be as comfy."

"is that all you care about? If I'm comfy? Would you be upset if I did lose weight?"

"No, because I love cuddling you so I don't care about your size but I like you the way you are."

"it can't be that simple, there's no way you just like me when I look like this."

"I'm not sure why you're thinking of it like it's complicated maths, I like you- no I love you and very happy with the way you are."

You wanted to argue, trying to find a way to figure out how he's wrong

But you couldn't

"You're my favourite person in this house - don't tell Beel - I wouldn't trade you for the world."

[fkingsteverogers]

You’re The One I Want

Parts 1 and 2 are tagged ls!reader on this blog. The end includes some ✨spice✨, so beware if that’s not something you’re interested in. 

Bucky Barnes was in hell. Actual hell. He’d been stuck in a house with you and Sam for a month and a half. And, when Sam wasn’t grating on his last nerve, you would appear, wearing the skimpiest shorts he’d ever seen and a loose shirt, looking so beautiful it’d make his mouth go dry with nerves. (Shut up, Sam, it couldn’t be anything else). Before long, you’d do something that would inevitably send his mind straight into the gutter. (His latest fixation had been about laying you out on the table and taking his time exploring). 

You seemed unwilling to talk about what happened (or didn’t happen) between the two of you before all this safe house bullshit. He could still feel the electricity between the two of you anytime you got close. If it got any closer, Sam was going to start feeling it. To make things worse, all his dreams were suddenly about slowly sliding his hands up your legs, feeling the little prickles from where you’d missed a spot shaving and listening to your little gaps as he pressed his lips to exactly the right spot...

He’s well and truly fucked.

See, his plan had been to avoid getting close to anyone until he was sure the Winter Soldier wasn’t coming back. But he’d shown up on your doorstep and you’d taken him in. The two of you had grieved for Steve together, had put together something like a life. You’d made sure he ate on something like a regular schedule, had made him tea when he had a nightmare. He made sure the creepy assholes who lived down the street left you alone. And it had been really fucking nice, to have someone who cared about him, to care about someone like that again. He’d cared about Steve like that once, worrying over his every move and happiness. 

Bucky could have happily stayed with you forever, making tea and watching movies on Friday nights. He would have settled down and started watching the shitty shows you liked. (Something about a fiancé? And 100 days?) He’d do anything to see a smile light up your face. 

It had all been going great until the Incident. 

 You’d kissed him and he ran away like the coward he was. 

You’d kissed him and it had been the best kiss he’d had since...well ever. You’d been so soft against his chest and he’d wanted to stay in that moment forever. He wanted to hold you, to see your smile when you finally broke apart. 

He wanted to kiss you again. 

(He wanted to do more than kiss you.)

Instead, he’d ran halfway across the world in a panic. Sam and Zemo, no matter how irritating, were safer than examining his feelings for you. So he ran away, tried to avoid thinking about you or anything to do with you (which was impossible because you seemed to be inhabiting a permanent space in his brain). His therapist would call it avoidance, he called it self preservation. His feelings for you were a dangerous, unstable bomb. You were grieving the loss of your husband, the man you both loved deeply. You were his friend, the one person who didn’t care if he woke up at two in the morning, thrashing and screaming. Your happiness meant as much to him as his own. 

After everything, you’d ended up trapped in a tiny house, avoiding each other. He missed the way you smiled at him, the way you would rest your hand on his arm to silently ask if he’s okay. And now, with Sam off on some mission meant to show the world that Captain America is alive and well, you’re alone in the house. It’s like it was before, when you shared an apartment. Except you’re not talking to each other and everything is fucked up. He wished Steve was here, he’d know what to do. 

Bucky makes amends the way his mother taught him: food. He realizes halfway through cooking that maybe the Depression era food of his teens wasn’t considered good anymore. The dish is mostly potatoes, butter, and salt. It’s bland but it kept him, his sisters, and their parents fed during the hard months after his dad lost his job. You were probably used to world class food in fancy restaurants. His stupid potatoes weren’t enough. 

You’re clearly surprised he cooks. You’re even more surprised he’s a good cook. Dinner is a little awkward, Bucky talks to fill the silence. He talks about his childhood, and his family, and growing up with Steve. In turn, you tell him about your life. Your family, hometown, what it was like to have Tony Stark as a Godfather. 

It’s so fucking nice to talk again.

He waits for a lull in the conversation as you clean up before he finally asks.  

“Are we ever going to talk about it?” You hum noncommittally, washing the kettle he’d boiled potatoes in. “Talk about what?” You know damn well what he’s asking about. He’s asking about the kiss and that moment before Sam and Torres had shown up. That moment that had pushed its way into your every waking thought. 

Before you can come up with another smart ass remark, he’s crowding you against the counter. There’s an intense look on his face, somehow different from the one he usually wears. Your heart races and you think your body might actually be on fire. 

“About the fact that you drive me crazy.” There’s no time to respond before Bucky’s kissing you. Your hands automatically go to his hair, clutching the short locks. Dimly, you curse the fact that he cut his long hair. Your mind is filled with dirty images of tugging on his hair, of your fingers laced in his hair as he licks and sucks at the apex of your thighs. 

Bucky’s hands, meanwhile, are mapping your body. His left is resting on your hip, hesitantly rubbing circles on the exposed skin. His right hand is cradling your head, keeping you as close to him as possible while you kiss. You stay in this cramped position for a few moments, enjoying the feel of each other, before he breaks away. Your lips are swollen and your hair is mussed, making you look downright sinful. 

You’re both at a loss for words at this new development, so he doesn’t say anything. He sits at the table, settles you in his lap, and continues. Before long you’re grinding against his thigh, making breathy little noises and whines. 

“James.”

It makes his brain short circuit. All he can hear is white noise as a rush of pleasure spreads through him. He wants to make you make that noise again, wants you to call him James in that tone of voice. Somewhere, he distantly realizes you’re chanting his name and rutting against his thigh. It sounds like heaven. 

After, he’ll make sure you’re both cleaned up and settled into your respective beds. After, he’ll wonder what exactly this means for the two of you. Right now, he’s too busy to care.

[trashcatsnark]

NGL I love how much you have embraced the silverv stuff here - its so nice to read. I submit for consideration, Rogue notices the tattoo while on the disaster date and both Johnny and V play it off as a joke and holy shit poor rogue stuck in a room with two morons.

Also - V getting dressed for that date and realizing they just MIGHT be a little jealous with a side of some thoughts of "Oh God Johnny Would NEVER Feel That Way About Me Gotta Bury This Deep So He Doesn't Know"

Johnny notices the anxiety but is very dense about the cause.

Oh hell yeah, I have fully embraced it and this ship; I was writing SilverV porn before the game came out, like I knew what my ship for this game was gonna be from the second I saw gifs of

“You’re a dick, Johnny” 

“And you’re a cunt, so maybe we’ll fit together after all.” 

That banter sealed my fate and I’m fairly sure I had named and created my V then wrote porn of her with Johnny literally a week later. The devil works hard, but my brainrot works harder and faster. 

Spoilers! 

Okay, so I’ve thought a lot about that date in both a silverv context (and largely how it fits with my V, Aidan and her fic) I’ll try to stay general though. 

Firstly, I whole heartedly believe Rogue sees through their bullshit. Not only is she just good at that, but Johnny even states she has MRE’s (?) and can see through people, like her eyes can pick up on signs of lying. And usually, thats not an issue for when V talks to her, but when she asks about Johnny and their relationship with him. Its a mess. And when Rogue asks Johnny about it, its a mess. 

And when Rogue notices the tattoo it’s like Oh... I get it . And Johnny is of course like, “hahaha, yeah I thought that’d be so funny, the kid hates it.” But Rogue isn’t stupid, she knows a lovey dovey heart with their names, something that looks like someone doodled it on their third grade notebook about their crush, is not really typical of Johnny’s “joking” She knows that if Johnny is not really the kind of guy to hahahaha its so funny to make it look like we love each other; he’d be more likely to get a dick tattooed on V’s arm if it was just to mess with them. For gods sake, look how many people didn’t pick “the other one” because they were convinced it was gonna be a dick. That’s a Johnny just trying to fuck with someone move. So, she doesn’t buy it, but doesn’t push it...with him. 

She asks V about and of course they play it off as “Yeah, Johnny thought it’d be funny, what a fucking asshole, its so fucking dumb, I totally fuckin hate it.” 

“So, why not get it removed?” 

“Uhhhhhhhhhhh, well you see what had happened was, um, I, just uhhhh, never been enough time, I guess yeahhhhhh.” 

Cause lets face it, in cyberpunk universe, getting a tattoo removed should be easy. If you can get blades in your arms and can have a completely newly reconstructed body in like an afternoon; you can get a tattoo removed in like twenty minutes. So, V still keeping it, says volumes about how they really feel.

Now, V’s jealousy and the date. 

I do absolutely agree that any anxiety or ill feeling V might have up until the date; Johnny is gonna feel, but not realize where it’s coming from. I think if anything, he’s gonna chalk it up to V being anxious about giving him control again and he’s gonna be like worried that maybe V doesn’t trust him as much as they let on. 

And I do think a V who has feelings for Johnny, would not be able to help feeling some jealousy regarding Rogue and Johnny. Just because jealousy is natural thing to feel and while you can debate if they were ever a good or healthy couple, you can’t debate they shared very real feelings for one another. And I think a lot of V’s jealousy would come from just how much Johnny seems to first think of/go to Rogue. When he needed to save Alt, first person he turned to, Rogue. When he wanted to bomb Arasaka tower (going by his memory of it and ignoring that the event was probably actually planned by Morgan Blackhand), who’d he go to? Rogue. When he becomes determined to get Smasher, who is he determined to get him with, Rogue. When he first decides to atone for his past mistakes, who’s the first person he wants to make up with, Rogue. When at the rooftop, who does he want to go grab to help him save V, Rogue. 

If you got feelings for someone, that’d hurt, I think it’s impossible for that not to spark some jealousy. And V if anything is also mad at themselves for having those feelings, because they like Rogue, she’s a badass, a legend, they respect the hell out of her. And of course they have feelings for Johnny and they wanna help him make shit right and they wanna give him a chance to enjoy himself. But this stupid reptilian part of their brain is screaming but i want to be the first person he goes to, the first person he thinks about, which they know is also stupid cause for fucks sake the man literally lives in their brain, they’re as close as two people can be and literally when Johnny has the power to go to someone for something, he can’t go to V because they’re reduced to sleeping essentially until Johnny hands back the reigns. Yet, feelings aren’t aren’t always, rational, sadly. 

And to Johnny’s credit, he probably doesn’t even give it that much thought. Rogue is a badass, someone he cares for, someone he can depend on and someone he hurt really badly. The two people he can and always has been able to depend on the most (other than Alt prior to her death) have been Kerry and Rogue. And, bless his heart, the fuck is Kerry gonna do? Kerry ain’t a merc, Kerry isn’t gonna bust into Arasaka Tower or plant a bomb. Kerry doesn’t have the connection to Smasher. So, of course, Rogue is gonna be his go to. And in terms of making things up to people...he literally cannot really do much to make things up to V, not the way he can for Rogue or Kerry. Cause, when him and V are both conscious, he can’t do much beyond touch and talk to them. Hell, even with Rogue and Kerry, he relies mostly on V to help him do anything. Even with people he can interact with and do something for; V is doing all the nitty gritty work for him. V drives Rogue to the theater, V breaks into the theater, V gets the projector going. V breaks into Kerry’s house, V disables the security. V gets in contact with Nancy. V gets Nancy out of Totentanz in one piece. 

Which probably if V actually thought about it critically, does mean he’s going to them and relying on them more than Rogue, but they’d probably dismiss it out of it being for necessity and not because he cares about them and feels he an depend on them. 

Anyhow, Johnny would probably love to do some nice gesture to make up for his bender to V, hell they probably were the first person he wanted to make things up since they are his catalyst for changing. But what feasibly can he do for them? Anything he’d want to do with/for them, would just be asking V go do this thing and i’ll also be here. Anything that would put them in public interacting is out, unless they want MaxTac called on V for looking cyberpsychotic. He can’t even do an at home date, because he can’t cook (engram or not) and he can’t buy them anything nice he has no money and also doesn’t technically exist. He could try to do so sneakily while he’s in control...but he’d be using V’s money so they might as well just buy it for themselves. he can play music for them,,. but that doesn’t seem too special and more than a little egotistical to think it’ll make V feel better about what he did... So... all he can really do, is prove he’s worth trusting by being on his best behavior and more importantly do what he can to save V’s life. 

Then there’s the date. And as usual, I have some opinions and feelings about a thing.  Like, okay, I’ve seen some people (aka Gamer Bros on Twitter) being like, Rogue is Johnny’s girl. Wanting to date either of them is wrong because they like each other. (then you also get the BUT ALT crowd, but rants for another day.) And I can’t help but ask, did we play the same date? Their entire date is about how they’re both desperately clinging to the past. Rogue is trying to reclaim 2013-2023 Rogue and Johnny just wanting for a night to feel like the world and his place in it haven’t been completely rearranged. And it ends with Rogue telling him, she is not that girl anymore, she can’t pretend to be, and frankly she doesn’t want to anymore. She wishes she could be, wishes she was still that tall haired street punk who’d never dream of working with corps or being a fixer, but she’s not. Her and Johnny are no longer the same people who met back in to 2010’s. Doesn’t mean they don’t care about one another and doesn’t mean what feelings they had weren’t real or important; but they’re just not those people anymore. Rogue more so than Johnny since he’s freshly on the course of change.   

Something else in regards to the date, that I think is important to talk about and how it relates to silverv and its something I personally have very conflicting feelings about. The fact that Johnny can initiate some physical intimacy with Rogue. See, I have never chosen the option to kiss Rogue during the date and actually did not learn until relatively recently, that if that choice is made it goes a biiit further than a kiss. I have watched the scene now.

And god I have mixed feelingssss. Like, I get it, but I’m not sure I like it. And I know full well, my silverv bias impacts my feelings on the matter, it’s be disingenuous to say otherwise. But I don’t think the ship is purely my reason for having these feelings. But at the end of the day, its all opinions. So, I get from a character perspective that Johnny and Rogue are trying so hard to reclaim their past and what they use to have that they get caught up in trying do what they would do if this was the 2010’s. And Johnny’s relationships as we’ve seen are very physical, sexual chemistry and attraction are major factors in his relationships because he kept things very superficial most of the time. He even says part of the issue with his relationship with Rogue is at the time he didn’t realize he could let her see the true him and still hid behind walls, kept things at a distance. So, the idea that’d they fall back into the old habit of trying to just be physical and ignore their feelings, isn’t out of character. 

However, and Johnny even seems to acknowledge this issue when Rogue interrupts it, they’re doing this with V’s body. V...who did not consent to sexual contact. They consented to a date and while one could logic that this would mean everything a date could entail up to and including physical intimacy; I would argue that that is something that would need further conversation to have clear consent. And like again, this might come down to boundaries and personal feelings. Because I go back to the bender and what’s been interesting to me is too see different opinions on it; some people weren’t actually bothered at all by Johnny’s bender in V’s body, some people were bothered by the drugs and alcohol specifically cause their V is straight edge. Me, personally, it was the sexual content and the endangering of V’s life. Like, it was mostly funny and oh yeah, I expected that it’s bad but eh I’ll move on, to me, until he started getting sexual with people in V’s body. Like that to me is not just crossing the line, it’s catapulting over it. 

And like I said, Johnny even responds to Rogue’s “this isn’t fair” with “what, you mean it’s not fair to V?” which she says she meant it isn’t fair to Johnny. (Which viscerally upset because you nearly used V’s body for sexual gratification without their consent and you’re worried about Johnny, which tbf Rogue has no way of knowing what V has and hasn’t consented to, so its not on her but that was my knee jerk thought). So, he has some awareness that maybe that was a bad move. 

And yeah, it definitely to me and my V would be a very bad move (unless he explicitly talked to them beforehand and got consent). And in general, it made me feel like, dude, you just promised you’d be better and not break V’s trust but again not a day later you’re nearly using them to have sex. It felt like a backslide, which isn’t necessarily unrealistic, cause change and growth is not always linear, people can commit to changing themselves and still fuck up and not get it right; in fact it’s rare for them not to have any sort of backsliding or repeating of mistakes. 

Again, I will also give credit that he could have been assuming that given V consented to the date, they assumed or were cool with their being physical intimacy between him and Rogue. He also generally, might not have really planned for it to happen, because I don’t think Johnny plans a lot of anything. It very well might have just sort of happened. Also, V doesn’t clearly communicate if the sexual component was an issue in the bender. All V really seems to have an issue with in game is the very general thing of; he misled them and used them. So, he might have assumed that wasn’t ever an issue. And hell, if you wanna go full meta, the player is technically the one who makes that choice and V is largely an avatar for the player, so that alone could be seen as whether or not V would/does consent. 

But, from a story perspective, removing the player choice element. I think how that’s handled would have a huge impact on silverv and where it goes from there. 

Because if V and Johnny did talk about consent prior and V did consent while having feelings for Johnny, god I’d have to imagine they’d still feel pretty hurt, but feel it’s irrational to feel that way and have put their own feelings aside because clearly Johnny cares about and wants Rogue and they should ruin what could be his one chance to make things right. 

If there like in game was no talk of consent and Johnny ends up kissing and touching on Rogue and V finds out or has memories of it surface,that could be devastating for them. Not only from their own feelings for Johnny, but this since of betrayal and hurt. Was the oil field conversation just a lie? A manipulation? V might feel like they were used; that Johnny never gave a shit about them or how they feel. And Johnny would have to deal with the realization that intentionally or not; he earned back V’s trust just to destroy it again. He fucked up again, he ruined everything again, he got his second chance and destroyed it…. And he doesn’t know how, if he can, or if he should bother trying to ask for a third. In general, I do think, V would come out of the date assuming (naturally so) that Johnny really only has romantic feelings towards Rogue, that they’re just a friend at best, a host to be used at worse. I even in my own universe with my V have them after everything is better, everyones got a body, expects Johnny to start pursing Rogue and trying to swallow their own feelings and be a supportive friend, try to encourage and push him to do it and Johnny’s just like please stop, Rogue is this close to murdering us both.

I was gonna add more funny stuff to this and include a shitposty interaction he has with my V over them dressing up for the date and shit, BUT HOLY FUCK THIS GOT LONG AND SAD????? I’M SO SORRY.

[skullrock]

the bath

pairing: Steve x Reader

summary: Steve goes through some anniversary-related trauma. Reader helps him through it.

word count: 2.9k

warnings: mentions of PTSD

===

You sigh heavily as you open the door to your apartment, dropping your bag at your feet and shrugging your coat off. It was too cold for October, and you shivered as you kicked your shoes off. You make your way into the living room to find your boyfriend huddled up on the couch. He’s wearing an oversized grey hoodie and sweats, and he looks like he hasn’t slept in days - because he hadn’t.

You approach carefully, afraid to wake him if he’s finally slept, but he stirs.

“Steve?”

He makes a weak noise in response, cuddling into himself more. You frown and sit in front of his reclined body, running your hand over his clothed shoulder. His face is pale, under eyes dark and sunken. His perfect hair flopped lazily over his forehead, flat on the top, as he hadn’t washed it in days. He didn’t have the energy to. He didn’t have the energy to do much at all the past week, his trauma overtaking his body. All he could do was think.

“You feelin’ any better?” you ask softly, though you know the answer.

He shakes his head. “‘m tired.”

“I know,” you coo. “Have you tried the sleep aids?”

Steve shakes his head once more, jaw setting. He didn’t want to take them because of the nightmares - that’s why he couldn’t sleep. All he could see was Barb, and her parents, and his pool, and Dustin’s torn up cat, and Demogorgons, monsters in lab suits, doctors with drugs. He swears he can feel the punches, taste the blood in his mouth. His body genuinely feels like it hurts - like the bruises on his ribs have formed again, sprouting blue and purple clouds across the skin of his torso. He feels dizzy, just as he did after Billy beat him, and after the artificial high from the Russians had worn off. His bones creak when he stands, his head pounds. He feels weak and sick and disgusting, hopeless, anxious, worn. When you’re gone, he cries; when you’re here, he’s silent. He keeps all the lights on in the house all hours of the day and apologizes profusely for it; he just doesn’t want anything sneaking up on him.

You understand.

“What can I do to help?”

A single shake of the head. “Nothin’.”

You frown and lean down, pressing a kiss to his earlobe.

“I’m gross.” He says it as a statement.

“No,” you say simply, pressing a kiss to his cheek. “You’re cute.”

He smiles, but only slightly. “Wish I had the energy to stay in the shower longer than five minutes.”

You perk up suddenly, back straightening. “I have the perfect idea.” You jump up, leaning down to kiss the top of his forehead. “I’ll be back.”

He reaches for you, pulling you down. “Don’t go.”

“I’ll be back so fast, you won’t even know I’m gone,” you promise, reaching for his pinkie with yours. “Half an hour, honest.”

Steve stiffens slightly. “Be safe.”

“You know I will.”

You run to the store, literally run, grabbing what you need. A couple bath bombs, some bath salts. A lavender scented lotion. Steve has hordes of high-end masks, so you skip on those, and run to get the ingredients for his favorite food and dessert. He usually likes to cook and bake, but you can manage. Probably. He was a damn good cook - you had nothing on him. But it’s the thought that counts.

You return with multiple bags, kicking the door shut with your feet. Steve’s brows quirk up as he hears you come in. “That was fast.”

“You know me,” you smile, rushing to put the food away before walking back to him. “I’ve got an idea.”

“I figured,” he says. He has the hood over his head so you can’t see his eyes or mouth, but you can hear the joke in his voice.

“What if I give you a bath?”

Steve stills, and then peaks through the hood. He stares at you for a long moment before asking, “Are you sure?”

“I want to,” you say softly, squeezing his hand. You press a kiss to his scarred knuckles. “Wanna take care of you.”

He pauses for a while longer before nodding gingerly. You help him up, first to sit and then to stand. He stumbles slightly and curses, his cheeks flushing from embarrassment. You stand on your tiptoes to kiss his cheek.

He reminds you so much of the boy he was, right now. His back hunches from the pain in his ribs. His shoulders slag from the lack of confidence. You can almost see the cuts and bruises on him, and it makes your stomach twist. Steve had pushed everything down quite well, all things considered - but when anniversaries come up, he reverts back into the scared and alone boy he was. And it kills you, because he’s the last person who deserves it.

You lead him to the bathroom with your materials and sit him on the toilet. You help him get his hoodie and undershirt off first, leaving him in his sweats. His eyes purposefully avoid the mirror, and it breaks your heart even more. You grab a washcloth and scrub his face with some water - he had, at least, been keeping up with washing himself. Then you grab one of his masks - a rose colored one, more expensive than your entire outfit - and begin to smooth it onto his face. He relaxes at the touch and smell, shoulders dropping, the crease in his forehead soothing.

“What’re you trying to say?” he quips. “Do I look that bad?”

“Christ, no,” you say. “As gorgeous as ever, Stevie. This is just… self care.”

He smiles slightly and you continue, washing the residue from your fingers when you’re done. You place two under eye patches onto him and he sighs, the smile growing.

“That feels so good,” he murmurs.

You can’t kiss his face, so you kiss the underside of his jaw, and his tension eases further. His hands flutter to your hips as you place another kiss onto the freckles that line his neck.

“‘m not trying to get freaky,” you whisper.

“Just want you close,” he replies.

You press one last kiss to his neck before pulling away and stepping to the bathtub. You run the water til it’s warm, and plug it. You sprinkle a few handfuls of bath salts into the water, and light a candle for him. You help hold Steve up as he steps out of his bottoms, and then help him step into the tub. A happy groan slips from his lips as he slides down, sinking into the water.

“Feel good?”

He hums happily and nods. He forces his eyes to flutter shut, knowing you’re at least here with him. “Don’t let me fall asleep.”

“You should,” you say. “You really should.”

Steve stays quiet, because he knows you’re right.

The salts in the bath slowly ease the tension and aches from his muscles, and the scent of the candle combined with the salts makes him feel a little more alive. You sit and watch his body relax, your own relaxing with it.

After a while, you grab the washcloth again, wetting it with warm water and heading over to remove his mask. You peel the under eye masks off and gently wipe the mask from his skin, revealing more radiant and plump skin underneath. “How do you feel?”

He hums once more. “Prettier.”

You giggle and push his hair back from his face with your hand, leaning in to give him a kiss. Then you grab a nail file and begin to file his nails, manicuring them as he usually does. You work on the hand closest to you, and then the other. Steve watches you the entire time, his eyes soft as you bite the inside of your cheek to concentrate on smoothing his nails down.

Steve knows, deep down, that he is worthy of love. You tell him every single day; Robin, Dustin, and the others reinforce it. Hell, even Mike Wheeler, Steve’s sworn enemy, has been there for him. He knows he’s better off than he ever was, even before the Upside Down consumed all remnants of a normal life. But it still feels bizarre, somewhere in the pit of his chest, to have people care about him. To have people look at him the way you look at him. And he never thought, in a million years, someone would file his nails, apply a face mask to him, and wash his hair with no judgement. But here you were, and here he was, and it was liberating and scary and so, so good.

You finish with his nails and he examines them, smiling softly before mumbling, “Eh, they’re okay.”

“Keep it up, and I won’t make you chicken alfredo,” you respond, and Steve slides down the bath in surprise.

“You - what the hell? It’s so expensive to make that -”

“You’re worth it.”

“No -”

“Yes,” you say, and your expression shuts Steve up. You reach up to twirl your finger through a lock of hair. “You ready?”

He nods, pushing himself up. You grab a large plastic cup and fill it with water. You put your free hand under Steve’s chin to tilt his head back before gently pouring the water over his head. He sighs at the feeling, happy once again, the feeling of warmth on his head relieving. You do this a few more times before grabbing his shampoo, a special kind, one he insists on using - which, you don’t mind, it smells like him. Sometimes you even sneak some to use, because you want the lingering smell of Steve on your hair for the day.

You begin to lather his hair, and his mouth drops. He leans back, his shoulders hitting the edge of the tub, and you giggle as you follow him. Little moans escape his lips - nothing quite sexual, just blissful. The week washes off with the shampoo, leaving him feeling clean and more awake, more alive. It also makes him feel vulnerable. His hair is his favorite feature, and not just anyone can touch it. But he feels safe with you, feels safe for you to see it greasy and flat, clean and sky high. He lets his guard down for the first time in a week, and almost feels ‘normal’ again.

You rinse the suds out and replace the shampoo with conditioner, applying it lightly, careful not to make it too greasy again. Steve smiles, because you’re doing it correctly and he didn’t even have to tell you. After a moment, you rinse it out with clean water. He reaches up and runs his hand through it, happy that it isn’t so heavy anymore.

“Better?”

“Much,” he says quietly.

You stand and get a fresh washcloth and get onto your knees again. The tile of the bathroom hurts, but you’d do it for him. You grab his body wash and he sort of gasps, brows creasing.

“You don’t gotta - I - it was just my hair -”

“Let me,” you say gently, and he relaxes.

You lather the cloth and begin to wash him; slowly, in circles, over the expanse of his chest and shoulders, down his arms and into his hands. As you reach each part, you whisper praises - “your freckles are so beautiful”; “you’ve got the nicest arms I’ve ever seen”; “your hands are always so soft.” Steve fights back tears while you do it, sets his jaw tight so they don’t spill over, his tongue desperately pushing at the roof of his mouth. He wasn’t expecting this. Not that he doesn’t like it, he just wasn’t expecting the love that pours from you, even as you move over his ribs and legs and back.

You rinse him off with the cup again, running your hands over his skin, smooth and supple. Steve looks younger, like years have been washed away from him, and it makes you smile.

You help him get out, being sure that he doesn’t slip, as the water drains. You wrap a towel around him snugly and sit him on the toilet. You kneel in front of him and use another towel to dry his hair for him. He melts into your touch, leaning so far off of the seat that he almost falls. You push him back gently, smiling.

“Feels good,” he mumbles, smiling wider than he has in a while.

“I know how much you like your hair being played with.”

He nudges your foot with his. “You said you weren’t trying to get freaky.”

“I’m not!”

“Okay.”

“Just stating the facts.”

“Alright.” He smiles and leans in, catching your lips in his for the briefest moment. “If you say so.”

You pull back, frowning. “Hey,” you say softly, cupping his cheek. “Just rest, okay? You need to.”

He looks down. “I know.”

“I know it’s hard,” you whisper. “But I will be right beside you. I won’t let anything hurt you.”

“That’s not entirely it,” he whispers. “What if they… get you?”

You’d thought about it, of course. After Starcourt, you were a mess, keeping the lights on in your own house, calling Steve at three in the morning - he was always awake. You weren’t immune to your own weeks of worry and anxiety-induced nausea. But you put on a brave face for Steve.

“They won’t,” you whisper back. “It’s over.”

“That’s what we always say,” he mumbles, looking away from you.

You cup his cheek and bring him back to looking at you. “It’s true this time. We’re safe.”

“But what if we aren’t? What can I do? How can I protect everyone?”

“You can’t,” you stress. “And that’s not a bad thing. Everyone is more than capable of taking care of themselves. Especially the kids.”

Steve sighs. “They could probably kill Satan with just a slingshot, huh?”

“They pretty much already have.” You smile sadly. “So have you. Three times over. That’s a lot of practice for fighting interdimensional beings, don’t you think?”

He shrugs and softly adds, “I gave them Dustin’s address, remember?”

You pause, not quite sure what to say. “Dustin’s not mad at you.”

“I know,” he says, voice hardly above a whisper. “But what if they….”

He can’t even finish the thought. His eyes prick with tears and he squeezes his eyes shut.

You wrap him up into your arms, hugging him as tightly as you can. You feel him shake beneath you, and he finally lets out a sob. He hadn’t cried around you much before - you knew he did cry, you just never quite saw it. It makes your stomach drop, but all you can do is hold him, let him bury his face in the crook of your neck and cry.

“‘m sorry,” Steve hiccups.

You pull back. “For what?”

He looks like he has a hard time articulating. “For… for crying. For being like this.”

“Like the man I love?”

“Stop,” he hisses. His eyes soften immediately afterwards, welling with tears again. “Christ, I’m sorry - I didn’t mean -”

“I know,” you whisper. You wrap your fingers through his and squeeze. “I know, Steve. Can I get you dressed?”

He nods numbly and you lead him to your shared bedroom, grabbing him a clean pair of sweatpants and a sweatshirt. He pulls them on gingerly, and you pull him to bed after, tucking him in.

“Stay,” he whispers, voice cracking and eyes pleading.

You slide under the covers with him, and he holds you closely, tightly, almost cutting off your breathing. He mumbles apologies into your hair, and you reach to his side to lightly pinch a sensitive spot.

“Hey.” You look up at him. “You better stop being sorry. I mean it.”

“But -”

“Genuinely nothing you do or say is going to make me get up and leave. Nothing. Not a thing. Because I know who you are, and I know who you’ve been. I know you don’t mean to snap. I know you’re scared. And that’s not grounds for apologies.”

He frowns. “I just don’t want to push you away.”

“I know it’s hard right now.” You reach up and push his hair away from his face again. “But I will be patient with you because I love you and you deserve it. You deserve the world.” He opens his mouth to protest again, but you press a finger to his lips. “No. I am going to go make you good food and dessert, and then I’m going to hold you all night. Okay?”

“Okay,” he says behind your finger.

You remove your finger and kiss him softly. “Take a nap, okay? I’m up, I’m here. I’ll protect you tonight.”

He squeezes you. “Promise?”

“Swear,” you reply. “Now let me go make you decent food, okay?”

“Okay,” he repeats quietly.

You don’t move for a moment. Finally you whisper, “I love you more than anything in the world.”

“I love you,” he whispers. “My everything.”

“No, you.”

Steve smiles and buries his face in your hair again. “No, you.”

===

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[fallout-lou-begas]

Elevated Extras: Ranger Ghost Companion

You a Courier? If so, this might be your lucky day...if you don't mind walking a bit and your eyes are good. 

(Original sketch by @tarberrymentats / based on the OC Companion Meme by @falloutfandomeventhub / if you borrow this concept please tag it as #fallout elevated extras)

General

Name: Ranger Ghost

Location: Mojave Outpost

How to obtain: Complete the sidequest “Keep Your Eyes on the Prize,” then begin the sidequest “Giving Up the Ghost” to get her reassigned from the Mojave Outpost. Once freed of her assignment, she can travel with the Courier to monitor Legion activity throughout the Mojave.

Companion Quest: “Giving Up the Ghost.”

Ranger Ghost, like everyone else, is sick and tired of being stuck at the Mojave Outpost. Unfortunately, orders are orders. With the courier’s help, though, she just might be able to come down from that rooftop, but dealing with NCR bureaucracy might be a worse ordeal than Legion crucifixion.

Companion Wheel

I think we should travel together. You probably can’t tell, but that’d make me very happy. Let’s get the hell out of here.

Let’s talk about your tactics. Sure. Lecture the ranger on tactics. Go ahead. / What’re you thinking?

I want you to change your combat style. (humoring) Alright. / If you insist.

Use a melee weapon. Close combat, then. / Sure. We can hold their hands and tuck them in while we’re at it. / (Wild Wasteland Enabled) Try to remember the basics of CQC.

Use a ranged weapon. (stating the obvious) It’s what I do. / You going to spot for me? / (deeply sarcastic) Aww. Finally remembered I’m a ranger?

Be passive. Sure, give peace a chance. / Don’t go pacifist on me, now.

Be aggressive: Locked and loaded. / (mocking the company line) Right, and with “extreme prejudice.”

Enough about tactics. Agreed. Anything else? / Are we good, then?

Let’s talk about how close you’re following me. Is there a problem? / What are you...implying, exactly?

Wait here. Right. Things to do, places to be? / Holding down here. / I’ll keep watch here.

Follow me. Let’s roll out. / Finally. Don’t like waiting. / Right. Skip to my fucking lou.

Stay close to me. (sternly cautious) Define “close.” / Got it, on you. / Just don’t bump my gun.

Keep your distance. Positioning, got it. / Yeah, covering you. / (facetious concern) Don’t get lost, now.

Let’s trade equipment. Don’t get fucking handsy, now. / Just don’t hog the ammo.

(Overburdened). I’m not your fucking pack brahmin. / (exasperated) I’ve only got so many pockets.

(Sneaking). Staying low. / (wryly imperative) Quiet, now.

(In Courier’s iron sights). What the fuck is wrong with you? / (slowly, emphasizing) Watch your trigger discipline. / Don’t make me take that away.

(Courier lays mine). I’ve got my eyes on that. / You’d better have a plan for that.

It’s time for us to part ways. It’s because i’m a bitch, isn’t it. / Such sweet fucking sorrow, I bet.

I’d like you to go to the Lucky 38. Hm. Sending the Ghost to the haunted house. See you there. I’ll try not to spook the Securitrons.

We can meet again at the Mojave Outpost. (sucks teeth) Guess I’ll report what I’ve got back to headquarters. Hopefully by now they’ve got someone else watching the brahmins shit full-time.

Injured: (seething) SSShhit. / Didn’t want it like this. / (with conviction) I didn’t get off that roof just to fucking bite it.

Damaged Limb: (shout of pain) Fucker clipped me! / Sure could use a fucking medic.

Regaining Consciousness: What...what the hell happened? / (trailing off) Fuck. Fuck, fuck, fuck...

Death: (death rattle) / (weakly) Ghosts...can die, huh...ha...

Attributes

Aggression: Aggressive.

Confidence: Brave.

Assistance: Helps friends and allies.

Karma: Neutral.

Perks

Ghost of a Chance: When Ranger Ghost is by your side, so are the odds. In addition to gaining an extra 3% chance to critically hit, any single attack that would kill you may instead leave you just barely alive and invulnerable for a brief moment..

Drops, if killed

Ranger Vest Outfit

Ranger Grey Hat

Authority Glasses

Cowboy Repeater

Combat Knife

Iguana Bits

Grognak the Barbarian

Dialogue, Quest Details, and Ending Slides:

Dialogue

Why do they call you Ghost? What, don’t I scare you? Boo? Nothing? (beat) Well, if you gotta know, it stuck pretty quick back in basic. Not like there were many other albinos in boot camp. The all-white spooky bitch who shoots better at night? Yeah, that’s a ghost, alright. Pissed me off at first, but I came around when it started giving privates the heebie-jeebies. Just a little kick, is all.

What’s an albino? Albinism is a pigment disorder. You know, the color of your skin and hair? As in I don’t have color. Pale as a sheet.

[Medicine 35] A sharpshooter with albinism? Isn’t your vision affected? Done your homework, huh? Well, these big, bad sunglasses aren’t just for intimidation, doc. They only come off when I sleep. Sucks enough being photosensitive in the goddamn desert, but like I said. I’m a lot better at night.

What’s your real name? (the thousandth time she’s answered this exact question) If I told you that, I’d have to kill you.

Aw, come on. Curiosity killed the courier. Don’t push it.

[Speech 40] I’m just trying to understand my partner better. Then “understand” that I don’t owe you shit except loyalty. Just call me Ghost, and you’ll get that.

[Cherchez La Femme] Surely you’ve got a name to match that lovely personality. (flustered) Are you d-...I-...Yeah, I do.But you can just keep calling me Ghost. (quietly) For...for now.

What’s the deal with Ranger Jackson? Man hasn’t got a thought in his fucking head...which is why he’s such a good C.O., from the top down. He’s a nice enough guy on a good day. He’s...principled, for sure. But the man wouldn’t budge on an order from brass if it’d save his life. Stranded caravaneers get so bored and restless because of the impasse he’s overseeing that he’s started (excessive emphasis) “hiring” the rowdier ones for odd jobs off the grounds, which is why we’ve been “losing” supplies for a while. Gets shit done, I guess, but wish he’d show half that drive when bitching to HQ, but no. They tell him to sit tight, he says yes sir, and then he takes it out on us when we get frustrated at the frustrating bullshit.

Do you know Major Knight? (standoffish) Yeah. Good guy. Known him a while. Hell, he’s been at M.O. longer than I have.

What does he do? Repairs, mostly. With all the caravans backed up, we sort of have a monopoly on maintenance and upkeep. And believe me, he does damn fine work.

[Confirmed Bachelor] Is he...you know…? Is he...oh. Between you and me? Yeah. He and I are...alike. I mean, I’m the bitch everybody hates, so I don’t really give a shit, but beneath that…(thinking how best to describe him, ribbing him a bit)...accountant exterior of his, he’s really the soft, sensitive type. Needs someone to talk to sometimes. I’m that someone, sometimes, but if you get the chance...it’d do him good just to know he’s not that alone out here.

How can I best use your skills? Hard to find a way that’d be worse than all the wasted time at M.O., but I’ll make it easy for you: give me a target and let me shoot it. If it’s too close to shoot, I’m trained in hand-to-hand, and if it’s too far to shoot, it’ll never see me coming. Standard repertoire for a ranger.

What’s your opinion on the NCR? High enough to keep me enlisted, low enough to where I’ve got plenty to mock. We’re a good country, a damn good country. We’re the only real country actually left in the West. We’d be the best thing to ever crawl out of the bombed-out ruins of this war if it weren’t for all the bureaucratic bullshit, and the brass getting duller the higher you go. It’s all just song and dance and sloganeering to them out here. Whatever looks good on paper. They don’t give a shit what really happens to people out here, and if Caesar doesn’t kill us, that might. At least on the inside.

What’s it like being a ranger? Ranger training is the best, most brutal gauntlet this side of the Colorado. Hours and hours of days and days spent shooting, drilling, fighting, bringing the body to its breaking points, pouring blood and sweat just to get an inch past the wide-eye hopefuls who were always going to just wash out...and all of it just to stand on a fucking rooftop staring at ants and malnourished raiders on the interstate. I swear, if you gave headquarters a golden egg, they’d fucking cook it.

Were you at the battle of Hoover Dam? Was going to be, but believe it or not, I sat out sick. Got the fucking flu right before and was stuck at McCarran the whole time, half-lucid. Let me tell you, the whole tent of coughs and sneezes crowding around that radio, listening to the reports...when Hanlon ordered that retreat out of Boulder City, we were grabbing our rifles and getting ready to march out on foot, even if we could barely stand. We thought that was it. Of course, it wasn’t, and we cheered so loud when they radioed about the explosion that I hope Caesar damn well heard it.

Do you wish that you had been there? Of course I do. If I miss the next one because I’m stuck at the Outpost or some shit, I’m deserting with a dozen fed-up caravaneers to flank his fucking fort myself, if only for some goddamn excitement.

How do you feel about the Legion? Love ‘em. Joined the NCR because I just wanted to meet them that bad. Their new Legate’s such a heartthrob, I hear.

You’re not serious. (sucks teeth, deep sigh) Look. You saw Nipton. It was just a taste of what they do. I’ve seen good men die on crosses, and that’s a mercy compared to the good women. I hear when women sign up now, they get about five extra “are you sures?” from recruiters. Not officially, of course. Brass would never let people back home know how bad it is. But it’s just another thing that makes me glad I’m a sniper, sometimes. Engage at range. Out of reach.

What about Legion society? Do you know anything about life across the river? There’s nothing across that river. Nothing. (beat, pondering) Do you remember the Enclave War? Bitter, bloody, big explosion at Navarro? And the Brotherhood campaign out here? Even worse of a shitshow, but still, we won that out, too. But the Enclave and the Brotherhood at least stood for something. They were societies, or at least promises of one, and if things had shaken out the other way for the NCR at least something would still be standing here. The Legion isn’t like that. They aren’t “something.” They’re one big razor across Arizona, shaving everything down. And if we don’t stop them here, we never will.

What about their Legate? (with contempt) Lanius, “The Monster of the East.” Caesar must’ve plucked him out of hell or something after his first legate blew it at Hoover Dam. Word from recon is that the only reason we’re all still twiddling our thumbs there is that he’s out making friends for Caesar someplace, and he’ll be bringing them all back for a whole ‘nother goddamn jamboree soon. (tension broken by a funny thought; spoken dryly) Or should I say a Damboree. Since it’d be at the Dam.

Do you know anything about Mr. House? No. Closest I’ve ever been to the Strip has been McCarran, where I was too proud to get wasted on expensive booze in the casinos. As punishment, I got stuck with nothing to do but get shitfaced on cheap booze at the outpost. All I know is Mr. House runs the whole Strip himself, and there’s one casino, the Lucky 36 or something, that’s supposed to be all his. No one’s allowed in, no one’s ever come out. Frankly? Just strikes me as fucking weird.

Companion Quest: Giving Up the Ghost

After completing the sidequest “Eyes On the Prize” (in which the Courier checks Nipton for survivors), Ghost will remark that the Mojave’s going to hell, and all she can do is sit and watch. The Courier will reply that she ought to stop watching and travel with them, to which she’ll respond that her orders are absolute—but if the courier can change her orders somehow, she’d be indebted. The quest then begins.

= = = Stage 1: Deal with Jackson = = =

First, the Courier must speak to Ranger Jackson and convince him to consider Ghost’s reassignment. They can do this through the following dialogue options:

[Speech 80] This outpost is just waiting to be overrun by Legion. You’ll be the next Nipton unless you’re proactive.

[Speech 55; completed “Can’t You Find It In Your Heart” beforehand] Maybe I could tell your superiors about where I “found” these “lost” supplies, then.

[Barter 80] Ghost is an exceptional asset to the rangers. Stationing her here is a waste of valuable NCR resources.

[NCR Fame] There’s work to be done for the NCR out there, and Ghost is who I trust to do it with me.

[Black Widow] I’ve ways of making men come around...especially handsome men in uniform. (The Courier must then sleep with Ranger Jackson)

Note that the Courier can not simply complete the quest “Can’t You Find It In Your Heart?” as a favor to Jackson for Ghost’s reassignment. While he’ll let a caravaneer go, it’ll take more than clearing some ants from the road to get him to compromise his standing force and let go of a ranger. 

Alternatively, Jackson’s death will advance the quest.

Kill Jackson. Similar to Cass’ companion quest, Jackson can simply be killed. However, Ghost is far less sympathetic to this course of action and will confront the Courier over the murder. If Jackson is simply killed, the Courier will either need a convincing alibi [Speech 90] to argue that they weren’t responsible or admit to the murder. If the Courier fails the Speech check or admits to the murder, Ghost will turn hostile (“Maybe you didn’t fucking think this through, but do you know what we call someone who kills an NCR ranger? An enemy of the NCR rangers. Now, eat shit.”). Alternatively, the Courier can intimidate Ghost into silence with a [Terrifying Presence] option, after which a shaken but seething Ghost will simply ask the Courier to leave the outpost and never come back. Passing the Speech check is the way to not fail the quest from this option.

Kill Jackson and frame Cass. If the Courier kills Jackson themself, attempting to loot Jackson’s body will trigger a message suggesting that they could frame Cass for the murder by splashing whiskey on the body (so long as Cass is not currently the player’s companion and is currently at the Mojave Outpost, not the Lucky 38). By adding a whiskey bottle to Jackson’s body without themself or the body being discovered in the meantime, they can successfully implicate Cass for the murder, and explain as much to Ghost. She’ll buy it, since Cass was one of the most frustrated residents of the outpost and was drunk almost all the time. Cass will then disappear from the game, and if Lacey, Major Knight, or Ghost (if the Courier left the outpost before speaking to her again) are asked, they will explain that Cass was arrested by the NCR.

Have someone else kill Jackson. A desperate, fed-up caravaneer named Paul by the brahmin pens is willing to kill Jackson for 5,500 caps. This price can be negotiated down to 4,000 with a [Barter 60] check, and 3,500 with [Barter 75]. At midnight that night, Paul will attempt to sneakily kill Jackson. Alternatively, Paul can be incensed into attacking Jackson immediately and for free with a [Hot Blooded] trait check. In either case, though, there is no guarantee that Paul will succeed, and if Paul is killed then the Courier must advance the quest another way (though they can loot their spent caps from Paul’s body). When spoken to afterwards, Ghost will remark that she saw the Courier speaking to Paul and ask if they had anything to do with it. By passing a [Speech 50] check, the Courier can convincingly lie that they were trying to talk him out of it. With either the [Black Widow] or [Cherchez la Femme] perks, the Courier can lie and say that Paul very foolishly did it to try to impress them. With [Low Intelligence] the Courier can earnestly say that they thought “taking care” of Jackson meant doing something nice for him.

Somehow allow Jackson to die. If Jackson just somehow dies in an unaccounted way, such as from a spawned-in deathclaw eviscerating him in his own office, Ghost will remark on the strangeness of the situation but won’t blame the Courier. This is a failsafe option to prevent quest breakage.

= = = Stage 2: Find a Replacement = = =

If Jackson is alive, he’ll agree with the Courier that he ought to let Ghost go, but he’s still under orders to maintain a standing force at Mojave—a standing force which includes a highly trained sniper. If Jackson has been killed, Ghost will mention that Major Knight is next in command and would be glad to give her clearance, but that he won’t be able to do so without a replacement sniper, either. Either way, the Courier is tasked with finding a suitable replacement. The Courier can ask her for advice:

Who should I look for to be your replacement? They have to be NCR, obviously. Ex-NCR might work, too, so long as they’re in good standing. Any Dick or Jane off the road is a no-go, since brass put the kibosh on officially contracting mercenaries. Oh, and anyone you get would have to be well-trained. Not necessarily a ranger, but good enough to replace one, even for a sit-on-the-shitter job like this. Only the best and brightest get to stare at this fucking road all day, apparently.

Where should I look for your replacement? If you checked out some of the ranger stations around the Mojave, they might be able to move some people around. Hell, take it all the way to McCarran if you want, or with Hanlon. If you’re going to give them shit on my behalf, by all means, go nuts. A lot of higher-ups can be greased with enough favors, anyway. Whoever you get just needs the right credentials. Legion attacks get dragged asses and twiddled thumbs, sure, but bad paperwork would set a goddamn fire at headquarters.

The following characters can be recruited as the Mojave Outpost’s new watch:

A generic ranger. By speaking to the commanding officers of at least three of the NCR ranger camps across the Mojave with sufficient [NCR Fame], the Courier can speak to Chief Hanlon to arrange for Ghost’s replacement with a generic ranger. This option is impossible if “Return to Sender” has already been completed.

Craig Boone. If the Courier has completed “I Forgot to Remember to Forget” in a way that makes Boone repentant over his past, he can be persuaded to take over Ghost’s position as a good way to put his skills to use. Otherwise, he will refuse, either preferring to stay in Novac where he lived with Carla or not wanting to be stuck as a watchman again when he could be out killing Legionnaires. If selected, Boone’s home marker will change from Novac to the Mojave Outpost.

Manny Vargas. Novac’s other sniper can be convinced to take up Ghost’s post, but only if the Courier has completed “One For My Baby,” “Come Fly With Me,” and eradicated the Legion presence from Nelson. Once convinced that Novac seems safe, for now, he’ll be willing to reenlist if paid a generous salary. The Courier can either pay Manny 5,000 caps to reenlist now, pass a [Barter 65] check to explain that it’s a provisional reenlistment and reduce their bribe to 3,000, or if the Courier has already passed the [Confirmed Bachelor] check in dialogue with Knight, they can tell Manny about the cute little major sitting behind the desk all day there by his lonesome. Once convinced, Manny will relocate to the Mojave Outpost and take Ghost’s place.

Bryce Anders. This keen-eyed ranger can be recruited to Ghost’s position if he is rescued from the Vault 3 Fiends by the Courier. Once spoken with in Camp McCarran, the Courier can explain that the Mojave Outpost needs a new ranger stationed there. He will defer to Colonel Hsu’s authority on reassignments, and with a successful [Speech 60], [Medicine 40], or [NCR Fame] check, Hsu will agree to the reassignment on the grounds that it’s a useful position still sedentary enough to not complicate the ranger’s recovery.

Little Buster. The listless bounty hunter at Camp McCarran is looking for another career path and would be willing to take over Ghost’s do-nothing position. However, the only way to recruit him is to fabricate both credentials and enlistment records by either stealing personnel files from either Colonel Hsu’s office at Camp McCarran or from the filing cabinets at Camp Golf, or speaking to Daniel Contreras, who “knows a guy” who’ll take care of it if the Courier has already acquired access to Contreras' expanded inventory by siding with him in the unmarked quest “Dealing with Contreras.”

Private Halford. The sole survivor of Camp Guardian mentions that he wants to head back home through Mojave Outpost after being rescued from the mirelurk caves, at which point the Courier can mention no one is allowed to leave through there, and ask if he’d like to take Ghost’s position there instead. At first he’ll refuse, but with a [Speech 45] or [NCR Fame] check he can be convinced that a quiet, do-nothing watch assignment would be a lot better than anything else after what happened at Camp Guardian, to which he’ll agree. He will also relocate to the Mojave Outpost after being freed anyway, getting stuck like everyone else so that the speech check can be re-attempted. However, Halford isn’t considered well-trained enough for a ranger’s job. The Courier must speak to Jackson (or Knight, if Jackson is dead) and pass a [Speech 80] or [NCR Fame] check to make a strong endorsement, or a [Survival 55] check to explain how impressive it is that he survived an attack from so many mirelurks. Alternatively, the Courier can fabricate impressive enough credentials through the options required to assign Little Buster.

Once Ghost’s replacement has been assigned to the Mojave Outpost, the Courier only needs to speak to Ghost again. She will explain that she’s been “reassigned” to open patrol across the Mojave, ostensibly to track Legion activity, so long as she does so with the Courier. She also gains an additional dialogue option dependent on your choice of replacement:

What do you think of your replacement?

(Generic ranger) For this job? Any ranger’s as wasted as any other. I almost feel bad, I doubt she’ll like that fucking roof any more than I did...almost feel bad. Doesn’t quite cancel out the relief.

(Boone) First recon is one hell of a pull. Took right to it, too, like he was already used to it. Strikes me as the...quiet, contemplative type. Likes to think. Not much else to do up there, anyway. I bet those brahmin pins have never felt safer.

(Manny) First recon is one hell of a pull. Took right to it, too, like he was already used to it. Seems like a nice enough guy, and seems to be getting along with Major Knight. Hell, you love to see it.

(Bryce) A good man. Heard about what the Fiends did to him, and after all that, he certainly deserves a break. Didn’t think of this shit job as much of a vacation before, but seems like it’ll do him good.

(Buster) Not sure where the hell you found this guy, but if (Jackson / Knight) gave the okay, then...okay. I would’ve put a goddamn brahmin in a beret up there if it could have gotten me another assignment.

(Halford) The mirelurk guy? Yeah, he seems alright. I’ve never actually seen a mirelurk, but after hearing his story, I don’t think I want to. I didn’t even know we had a camp that far up there.

Speaking to Ghost after her replacement takes her position completes the quest, and from then on, she can now be recruited as a companion. However, similar to Boone, she will only remain the Courier’s companion if they maintain good reputation with the NCR, and as an active-duty ranger, her intolerance for anti-NCR actions is even more strict.

Ending Slides

If "Giving Up the Ghost” is started, but never completed:

NCR Victory. Ranger Ghost remained at Mojave Outpost, dutifully, thanklessly, and restlessly. When the rangers there received word that the Legion had made their move on the dam, the entire outpost went silent. Waiting. From her rooftop perch, at least she was the first to see the bearer of good news come up the road. In the moment, at least, it was worth everything to be there.

Legion, House, or Independent Victory. Ranger Ghost remained at Mojave Outpost, dutifully, thanklessly, and restlessly. When the rangers there received word that the Legion had made their move on the dam, the entire outpost went silent. Waiting. From her rooftop perch, she was the first to see the NCR’s retreat, as civilians and troopers alike began fleeing through the Long 15. She was right: this whole time, all she could do was watch.

Ghost is dead. Ghost, bitterly, died as she lived...(deep sigh) at the Mojave fucking Outpost.

If “Giving Up the Ghost” is completed:

NCR Victory: When legionnaires by the score descended upon Hoover Dam, Ghost was proud to have been one of the many rangers in the battle that kicked their shit in back across the Colorado. She celebrated with the rest of them, even a smile creeping onto her face every now and then. Still, Ghost returned to business before long, as part of a squad out East tracking down the straggling remnants of Caesar’s retreating Legion.

Legion Victory: Ghost was among the many rangers who fought at Hoover Dam, but when the army of legionnaires led by the Courier, to whom she owed her very presence there, proved unstoppable, she was ultimately among its many casualties. Their advance was too sudden, too overwhelming, for a clean evacuation, and a grisly duel with a centurion trapped her near the front. Still, the Legion never took Ghost alive. She made sure of it.

House or Independent Victory: The arrival of the Securitrons at Hoover Dam was a surprise to every NCR trooper stationed there, including Ghost. Their sudden turn against the NCR, and their allegiance to the Courier, even more so. The triumph of vanquishing the Legion was short-lived, then, as Ghost joined the forced retreat, one pale face in a sea of many. 

Ghost is dead: Despite her name, there was no supernatural flourish when Ghost died. She simply died like a ranger, fighting to the end. That’s all that mattered.

(Bonus) Cass’s Ending Slide if the Courier frames her for the murder of Jackson:

Rose of Sharon Cassidy spent all of her time at the Mojave Outpost in a drunken stupor, which is why when Major Knight oversaw her arrest for the murder of Ranger Jackson, it took so long to get exonerated. By the time the alibi was pieced together and the evidence was admitted as circumstantial, the battle of Hoover Dam shifted NCR’s attention elsewhere, and the crime was never solved. For a few months in the clink, though, at least Cass got what she wanted: home, and finally away from the outpost.

[cartoonfangirl1218]

5 times Leonard was surprisingly affectionate

1 They had been loitering at the New York Zoo and Sara was just uncharacteristically frigidity. She kept inching towards the bird section that was chaotic with sounds of macaw squawks, dove coos and the never ending screech of some tropical bird that Leonard hated. The noise was driving him nuts.

Stein had advised that it would be a great place for a 3rd date as that if they had an awkward pause, there was an automatic conversation starter if a lion ever got loose. Right now he wished a lion would go on a rampage right now and kill those stupid birds.

Sara really seemed to enjoy the trip so far, he didn't get the big deal it was just a bunch of animals in caging staring back at you. Or just sleeping.

Sara just smiled and dragged him to the bird aisle. Leonard couldn't help but give a small smirk. He really liked her smile, it was bright and casual. Yeah, that's it, casual. Not too big or that blinding smile that made him feel warm all over.

Just casual.

He was with someone he trusted. Not a daily feeling in Leonard Snart's life. He hadn't felt safe since he killed his father with the cold gun those many months ago. Or was it a year?

But with Sara it was different kind of safety. An emotional one. That she understood what it was like to be one of the bad guys. The feeling that no matter what you did, you couldn't be redeemed. The vulnerableness of being with all those "heroes," the disbelief that you could ever become that good.

She went through it to. She got through it and somehow it made him feel hopeful that he could too.

Sara raced past the tropical birds and scanned the name cards. Then a beep sounded. From Rip.

"Savage, 1997." was his message.

"Oh,” Sara sighed, shook her head and strode confidentially out of the zoo.

At the Waverider, the team was leaving the base after Rip informed them that getting Savage before the Team had formed might be their only chance at saving Carter and maybe getting another muscle. Sara was leaving to her room to get a katana, when Leonard stopped at her door.

"I got this before we left." He handed her a wooden canary that started to play a simple tune.

"How did you?" Sara gently took the canary, a giddy smile unconsciously spreading over her face. "I have my ways."

2 She had been shot by Nyssa and was lying on the hospital bed getting stitched up. She stated that she didn't mind the pain, it was numb to her, she had worse things. But Leonard could tell she was in pain.

Just not the physical kind.

Leonard was aware of her past with Nyssa and he could just imagine the hurt of her former lover shooting her in the shoulder.

To be fair, Nyssa didn't know who Sara was. She was just raised as Ra's daughter, to kill. Sara had been standing between her and Chronos. He also knew Sara was berating herself for getting shot, for being weak.

"Sara, you can't blame yourself." "Yes, I can!" Sara protested "I knew she didn't know me, and I kept telling her what a good person she was. It was just stupid. I'm so stupid. Ugh!”

"No you're not. You're badass but not stupid."

"This is not the time." Sara glared.

"Fine but I'm taking your night watch" - Night watch was when two team members stayed at the base to study any activity from Savage then shifted to another two later in the earlier morning. Today was her turn to watch with Stein and Leonard was suppose to take the later one with Ray.

"Leonard, I'm shot not disabled, I'll do it." Sara insisted. "No, you won't." "Yes I will." "No, Sara." He leaned close to her, whispering in her ear, "It's okay to be hurt right now. Just sit and relax" Then walked away.

Sara remained in her bed like Leonard told her and in the morning she heard the toy canary by her bedside, singing and an exhausted Leonard was asleep in the chair next to her.

3 The third time was four months after they made it official. They were boyfriend and girlfriend and life couldn't be any easier, well love wise, the world was still in danger.

They were watching the Matrix on the couch and Sara had fell asleep at some point when the Matrix exploded.

Sara because of her assassin tendencies and the probability everyone tried to kill her in her sleep was a very light sleeper.

Sara hadn't been sleeping lately for various reasons, Nyssa being one of them. 2nd timeline Nyssa shooting her had been a recurring nightmare.

The sound of the Matrix exploding had been surprisingly calming, like how she wanted to kill someone and that just watching someone in pain made her feel better.

Sara had woken up to someone brushing her hair, she was about to stand up and ask what he was doing when she felt him lay his head on hers then he put her head on a pillow and walked away.

Sara shrugged and went back to sleep, probably some his brooding walks of thoughtfulness.

A few seconds, she heard him tiptoe back and put the blanket over her.

4 "Sara what were you doing?" Rip yelled.

Leonard cringed as Sara frowned. Sara had just killed a flight attendant that was preventing her from getting into Savage's private jet.

The killing had accomplished the goal to get into the jet, but Savage still escaped, Sara was covered in blood and the news reporters were more than eager to get the headline of Victor Scolia's attempted murder, assassin in jail.

Then the team having to go to jail to bust her out hadn't made Rip's twitch any better.

"My job to get Savage," Sara replied stiffly.

"By killing the guy. You could have just hit him on the head and be done with but now all of Cincinnati has your name on America's Most Wanted." Rip continued on with tirade on how she must use simpler means such as a small blow to the head to make people unconscious, not dead.

Leonard gave a small internal sigh himself. He knew how difficult it was for her. The spent many nights were Sara discussed her bloodlust and how she wanted more action. She needed to feel the blood over her hands, smooth and sticky and know that she was alive because she ended someone else.

Besides it was more practical, sealed the witness more quickly. But since his little deal with Scarlet he had resided these urges. Then again, he hadn't been resurrected from death in a Lazerus pit so this must be a different level of bloodlust.

Sara strode to her, poised as usual. But he noticed a slight dejected slump. She knew she screwed up It was best to leave her alone.

But the part of being a supportive boyfriend wouldn't let him.

Sara was sitting in her bed, staring at the wall.

"I had to kill him. For myself. Like a monster," Sara muttered, vaguely registering his presence.

Rather than doing another one of the talks that had been played over before, he sat next to her. Sara leaned against his chest and screamed in frustration. He slowly patted her shoulder.

5 She attempted to cook for him for their first anniversary. It was a simple meal, just some mashed potatoes and an omelet but it went wrong.

Really wrong.

She had burned both the egg and potatoes and left the bottoms scorched. She had tried to make it up by posting ice cubes to lessen the heat. Leonard felt a little fearful for his stomach but gave a shaky smile in return and put on his best poker face.

"Enjoy," Sara sat down with her own glass of water and played with her eggs.

Leonard noticed the way she looked at him worriedly. "She really wants me to like it.” Leonard thought and decided faking until he made it would be the best option. Just this once and it was for her.

He took a forceful of egg and shoved it in. It tasted awful. The grease and the smell of smoke filled his nose and mouth but Leonard valiantly continued and ate it all. Breaking a chair leg in the process of trying not to let his pain show.

The next morning Leonard was excused from work due to food poisoning that he blamed at the Taiwanese McDonalds.

Though Sara just knew it had to be her cooking. But he didn't say a word, he just smiled and ate those eggs.

And that was anniversary gift itself.

And the 1 Leonard had been in the shower in the men's room. Staring himself in the mirro r in disgust. He had ran into Lewis once more during their missions in the timeline and the scars across the front of his chest glared mockingly at him.

Of all those years of obeying the dead bastard.

Nothing big occurred between them, not wanting to mess up the timeline and such but seeing him again just brought back all those memories.

He pulled on his parka and strode into the HQ. He hit the table over and over with his fist, cursing.

Sara walked in, "What is it?" She asked soothingly.

"The bastard" he replied "The damn bastard that did this to me. The bastard that treated me like his flunkies for diamonds. Couldn't hold his damn liquor. The loser doesn't know anything. He took my childhood and put me in juvie he put a fucking bomb in my sister's head just so I worked with him because he couldn't do it himself! I have spent half my life in hell!"

"Hit me," Sara commanded, holding up the palm of her hands to hit. Leonard hit immediately, the impact only pushed her a few feet backwards.

”Harder." she insisted.

Leonard continued to hit her hands until her hands turned red and he was kneeling to his knees with effort.

Sara quietly lifted his head and hugged him. His cold body melted into the warmth of her arms