#in service of making sure we have so much fun over how cool wags is & not go :/ b/c they're going ooh we saw the am i gay quiz at winston

[unproduciblesmackdown]

winston sees it coming b/c he's been around here for at least 5 sec which is enough &/or half is deliberately baiting everyone as another parting flipoff and he suffers through & is upset by all the measures taken but is then just ready like oh we'll just put it All out there, his shit sure but then also an exposé on any & everyone's bullshit that he's been aware of, which seems to be aplenty, and you know, like has a lawyer ready and shit but like yeah deal with (a) that PR where [also if he can include the exposé on what they've been doing to him / are trying to do to him Right Now] plus all that other bullshit is shockingly going to be what any randos & third parties care about rather than "but...he's sooo annoying :(...but we refuse to fuck him :(...but he could be taller :(..." and then (b) we could have Themes where Everyone has to still deal with even the potential consequence of their own actions that is looking in a mirror for a minute while they try to take down prince (plus another potential shakeup to those efforts in this, besides those of just waiting around on / letting wendy & etc take their shots at it) but instead of that it is more important to billions that we get an episode about how fun it is that wags is so cool

[oigimi]

. fantasy: act one .

. arthur x reader . 2k words . tw: attempted assault (not from arthur, similar to in-game content) .

this is gonna have a sequel, perhaps. lemme know what you think!

I sighed and looked out the window of my shop. The skies were blue, the wind was still, and the air was a crisp chill, perfectly suitable for autumn. The cold air was attracting a lot more customers to my cafe, which was something I both looked forward to and dreaded. We’d only been open for business for about one year, so gauging how good or bad each season was was still something I was getting a firm grasp on. This season was always fun, though. Everyone’s coffee order was different. Some people wanted caramel syrup and extra foam, some wanted it cold with no ice somehow, and others wanted things we don’t even serve. It was strange, but I always had a customer who ordered his coffee black. Who orders black coffee at a cafe? But he’d always give a charming smile and say something sweet, so I didn’t mind it. Plus, a black coffee is much less work for me.

Around 2:00 PM is when he stepped into my shop that crisp autumn day. He ordered his black coffee as usual, but I heard an unusual yet all too familiar sound.

“Ah, Vic! Quiet please, they’re doing us a service. I’ll add a bit of beef to that order, too. Don’t bother with putting it on a biscuit. How much extra would that be?” he chuckled, looking down. I peered over the counter and gasped. At the man’s feet was a fluffy Cavalier King Charles spaniel, letting out a little bark and wagging his tail as fast as he could.

I couldn’t suppress the smile growing on my face and the giggle that escaped my lips. “Aww, don’t worry about it. I’ll give it for free,” I offered, turning to grab a piece of beef.

“Are you sure about that? It’s really no trouble, I’m not about to con a lovely bird like yourself.”

“No, no. I’m happy to get something for him. You know, in my year running this place no one’s ever brought a dog in.”

“Really? Well, it’s a little small. Or, intimate, I should say. It makes sense why dogs wouldn’t be in here all that much.”

“It’s small now, but I’m gonna grow it. Just you wait.” I fixed him some black coffee and put the beef in a bag. “Here you are. Enjoy! And I hope she enjoys it too.” I smiled again and waved at Vic.

“I’m sure he will. Vic here is a boy,” he corrected, but smiling anyway. “I don’t blame you for getting confused. He fooled me too at first! Ah…” He took a sip of the coffee and sighed. “Perfect. Here. For excellent service and to support your growing business endeavors.” He took some coins out of his wallet and dropped them in a little cup on my counter.

Peering into the cup, I let out a sharp gasp and covered my mouth. How on earth did he get that much…? “A-ah! Thank you, but I can’t accept this! This is a lot of money, sir!”

“Really? I think a beautiful little thing like you should get more, frankly.” He stretched. “Well I’m off. I hope you have a lovely day.” He gave me a wink and turned out the door.

Something changed in me as soon as I saw him disappear into the Parisian streets. The air became… warmer somehow. The sun shined a little bit brighter, and all of a sudden I grinned at every little thing. Someone was out there who cared about my little cafe, the little cafe I’d always hoped for since I was small. The idea satisfied some of my fantasies from that time, if I was being honest. The man was very handsome, with a very distinct, charming smile and shining blue eyes. He moved like someone with staggering confidence, but led his dog like a kind, caring owner. He was everything I’d ever wanted, but I didn’t even know his name. How silly. How… juvenile.

He’d come in every day as of late. He’d always have something new to say, and something to compliment me on. I had to keep my cool, trying to pretend like his words didn’t send my heart into a rhythm no metronome could ever count. He’d proven himself generous and kind, always asking about my day outside of the cafe. I didn’t think to ask about him, I was too nervous. But he was sort of mysterious, and I liked that. He had the face and mannerisms of a man who was perfect for anyone as a partner. Someone you could count on to make your day.

“Maybe he’s got a secret or something…” I mumbled, cleaning up the tables during a closing shift. “Wouldn’t that be something? What if he’s like… A British prince or something? Or a wizard? A wizard would be cool.” Letting these childish fantasies about the man who would frequent my shop, leaving something a little extra (in terms of money and flirtatious exchanges) every day was a perfect time killer. His smile and shape of his lips filled my thoughts, and I began to fill in the blanks myself. What it’d feel like if he wrapped his hand around my waist and pulled me in, pushing my hair behind my ear, leaning in to warm my already burning face with his breath as he kissed my lips. Oh, how soft they looked. I’d’ve done anything to taste them…

“Or what if he’s a vampire or something? Now that would be crazy.” I laughed and closed the door behind me, making sure it was properly locked. “Ah… What a kid I can be.”

About halfway down the path to my house, I began to sense something was off. Sometimes I heard faint footprints, or see a shadow moving behind me. Swallowing the lump in my throat, I slowly sped up my walking until I was in a slight jog. Unfortunately, this tipped off my followers, and I was grabbed and yanked backwards.

Two huge men, dressed in dark clothing, pushed me against a wall, and began to tie me up. I tried to scream for help, in the loudest screech I could muster. I thrashed, I wriggled. I did everything I could, but the brute force against my body was enough to make my strongest efforts as futile as that of an infant. “Just look at them, how much do you think we could get for them?”

“A few thousand at the very least. Soft skin, shining eyes, soft hair… Yeah, this one’s a jackpot for sure. Get them back.”

“NO!” I shrieked, only to be gagged with some sort of cloth. They began to push me into a carriage, until something knocked them down off their feet. Forcing myself to look up, I saw an extremely familiar face, next to a completely unfamiliar one. It was the man from earlier! And… someone else! They locked themselves into a fight with my assailants, throwing punches that bruised entire patches of skin. They kicked, they swung, they dodged like they had superhuman abilities. It was unlike anything I’d ever seen before, and I clung close to the wall I was originally shoved into, praying nothing else would try to touch me while the two men who’d tried to capture me were becoming weaker and weaker.

“That should take care of them. What bastards. Attacking people in the dark,” the unfamiliar man grunted. He had soft-looking brown hair, a very tall build, and a nice brown coat. “Hey, are you okay?” He came over to me and offered his hand, but I just remained where I was, unable to move.

The one I’d come to know looked around, making sure no one dangerous was around anymore. “Give them some space, Theo,” he replied. “That was a truly awful thing they went through…”

Theo backed off and watched me. “Maybe you should walk them home, Arthur. Make sure they get back okay. Is that alright with you? You two seem to know each other or something.”

“Uh…” My gaze shifted to Arthur, who had the most concerned look on his face I’d ever seen. His brows were furrowed upward, eyes wide and glossy. I wiped away tears I had no idea were streaming down my face and rushed forward, sobbing into Arthur’s chest. “Th-thank you! Thank you so much! Th-tha-thank you and your friend both! I’m- I-“ As I bawled, Arthur hugged me and rubbed my back.

“There there, bird…” he whispered. “I’ll make sure you get back home. We’ll go when you’re ready.”

I nodded and looked over at Theo, giving him a quick hug too. “Thank you too.” I got on my toes and pecked his check quickly, to which he just looked downwards and cleared his throat. “It’s nothing. As long as you’re okay,” he grunted, clearly attempting to mask his flustered reaction.

“I think I’m good to go,” I told Arthur, returning to his side. He gave a small smile and linked our arms together.

“Good. Let’s go and get you home.”

As we walked, I couldn’t keep in the tremble in my steps and the slight vibration in my body. I looked around us, trying to verify our safety whenever I felt like I needed to - which was a lot.

“You fight really well,” I mumbled. “It was crazy to watch! I mean, the fast movements and how hard you could punch! It was like… Like you aren’t human or something.”

Arthur laughed and shrugged. “What can I say? You pick up a thing or two in pub brawls.”

“That’s it then? Pub brawls?”

He kept walking, declining to fully answer. “We were actually leaving the pub when we heard you. I’m glad I convinced Theo to go the short way home tonight. I don’t want to imagine what they’d do to you if we weren’t there…” He frowned again but quickly cleared his throat. “Anyway! Where do you live? In this neighborhood?”

“Yeah, actually! How did you know?”

“I could tell by your clothing and makeup. The style of it indicates someone who is by no means rich or poor. And your shop opens at 8 in the morning, giving you enough time to wake up and get ready and leave an hour before 8 to prepare. With all this, you must live around 20 minutes away, and this is the only middle class neighborhood 20 minutes away.”

I stared for a moment, completely unsure how to respond. “You got all that from my clothing?! What- what-?”

“I’m a mystery author, love! As well as an independent part time detective. It’s my business to know these things.”

“You’re good… Wow,” I huffed.

“Not the first time I’ve heard that phrase.” He looked at me, as I tilted my head. “Sorry! Sorry.”

I shook my head. “So you have a partner?”

“Me? No. Not now or recently.”

A glimmer of hope sparked itself in my heart. This was it! My handsome, romantic savior was single on top of everything! There was something inside me that felt ashamed for thinking this way after everything that happened, but it was better than dwelling on it all. I knew I’d spiral otherwise. “I see.”

We arrived at my house, and I led Arthur to my porch. “Thanks for everything. The tips, the frequent business, the conversation, the saving… It means so much to me. You mean so much to me.”

He smiled a warm, earnest smile. Different from the confident ones he sported in my cafe. This smile was comforting in a way I’d never felt before. “Well you’re welcome, dove. We should have a meal sometime. My treat.”

“Really-?! Are you sure? You already do so much!”

“Don’t worry. Once you open a world-class cafe I’ll let you pay. I’m sure that day will come soon. Alright, goodnight. I hope you sleep well. I’m truly sorry about what happened to you.”

I shook my head. “Yeah, it’s… I’m just grateful it ended how it did. You’re amazing, Arthur. Like I said, almost superhuman.”

With another smile, Arthur leaned forward and kissed my forehead. “See you tomorrow.” He poked my nose and turned around.

And as he left, I could’ve sworn I saw a pair of vampire fangs in his mouth.

————————

@drachonia since you wanted me to tag you in this! :3

[thatshithurted8]

Lake Chelan

Heyy💜 so i have a req for Vinnie😍 based on this tiktok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMdaeQPS7/ So the readers that girl and they had like the most amazing date and for whatever reason vinnie forgot to ask her number so they never met again until years later the reader is actually a big tiktok star and moves in with nai. One day nai’s on live and vinnie’s watching and then the reader shows up on live and he’s like ???!!!!! And freaks out cause it’s the girl he’s never been able to forget. @canyoubuymetoast

Summary: An impromptu connection quickly turns into an unforgettable yet unrealistic one. Despite this a few years later Vinnie finally gets a second chance to reignite said connection. 

Warning: Tooth rotting fluff

Word Count: 3.4k

“You know your help would be great Vinnie.” Reggie says sarcastically while trying his best to figure out how to pitch their tent. Maria and Nate went off to scope the area since they already set up their tent, so it left the two Hacker brothers to figure out how to create their sleeping arrangements. 

“Yea yea one sec.” He responds placing his phone on the picnic table he was sitting on before looking up to see a German Shepard walking towards him. Vinnie’s eyes instantly brighten and a smile washes over his face as he calls the dog over. 

The black and brown dog trots over to Vinnie with a wagging tail and almost immediately the friendly animal starts to leave slobbery kisses all over Vinnie’s face. Vinnie lets out a laugh as he moves his face out of the way, but continues to the pet the dog. 

“Who’s dog is that?” Reggie asks walking over to his brother, giving up on the tent. 

“I don’t know it just came up to me. It’s friendly though.” 

Reggie simply shrugs his shoulders and joins his brother in petting the dog. However, just as Vinnie opened his mouth to suggest that they should call the number on the dogs collar an unfamiliar voice calls out. 

“Zeus! Where are you boy?” 

Reggie looks up from the dog and his mouth almost immediately drops open when he see’s a gorgeous girl searching the area looking for something. He nudges his brother who was still petting the dog and cooing at it in a baby voice. Vinnie looks up at Reggie annoyed before he decides to look at what his brothers line of vision was fixated on. 

As Vinnie looks over yours and his eyes simultaneously meet. Albeit cliché, Vinnie could’ve sworn he had the air knocked out of him just by making eye contact with you. He’s never felt anything like it before. 

You on the other hand quickly glance down and relief washes over you as you finally spot your dog that wandered off of your families campsite. You quickly walk over to Zeus, your dog and the two boys that were with him. 

“Zeus I should’ve known you went to mooch food off of strangers!” You exclaim to your dog who quickly walks over to your side before you finally look back up and make eye contact with the boys. As you do so seemingly the same effect you had on Vinnie, he had on you. How did you not realize how attractive he was when you were walking over to them? 

 “I’m sorry about him he does this at every campsite we go to. You would think we don’t feed him, but he’s just a glutton.” You say, heat washing over your face due to the fact your dog wandered off and found the most attractive guys you’ve ever seen. 

“No no it’s okay we needed a break.” Vinnie says nodding over to the unpitched tent while smiling at how flustered you got from his gaze on you. 

Reggie scoffs looking at you then his brother. “We needed a break?” He asks with a raised eyebrow. “Vinnie, I’ve been trying to set up the tent for the last 15 minutes while you were trying to find service so you could make a tiktok.”

It was now Vinnie’s turn to be flustered. “Pfft, that’s not true.” The blond says obviously fibbing and you simply look at him amused. 

“Do you guys need help? My family and I go camping every summer so I’m basically an expert at setting up tents.” You suggest. 

“Yea sure that would be great.” Vinnie says standing up for the first time in the last twenty minutes while smiling at you. Without another word the three of you walk over to the unpitched tent with Zeus following along. 

“My name is Y/N by the way.” You say glancing at Vinnie before kneeling down to work your magic.

“Vinnie and that’s Reggie.” 

And that was how you and Vinnie Hacker met, all thanks to your gluttonous dog who loved showing off his puppy dog eyes to strangers in return for food. Little did either of you know how much this small interaction would have an impact on the other. As the Hacker’s camping trip went on the more your family and Vinnie’s bumped into each other and finally one night your dad invited the Hacker’s over to your campsite for a bonfire. Almost instantly yours and Vinnie’s acquaintance status changed to friends. Soon enough your family and Vinnie’s family spent the rest of the camping trip together, going swimming, boating, tubbing and more. 

That was no different for the last full day of your camping trip. In fact Vinnie finally gathered up the courage to ask you on a date despite the fact you two originally lived hours away from each other. 

“Thank you.” You say glancing up to the waiter that just took away your empty plates and placed the bill on the table. You look back up at Vinnie who was already staring at you with admiration, causing heat to wash over your face. 

Too flustered to look at the boy in front of you, you take in the scenic view. You two sat out on the patio over looking the lake with mountains, foliage and the sun setting in the distance. The restaurant Vinnie took you to was one of the fancy ones in town and the two of you stood out like a sore thumb due to your clothes. Showing up to the restaurant and sitting down to eat in a normal t-shirt and shorts was the equivalent of eating at McDonald’s in a prom dress and suit. Yet, the disapproving stares from other patrons made the whole experience even more memorable. 

“This is very nice thank you Vinnie.” 

“Anything for you.” He says softly, placing his hand on the table in which you take without hesitating, causing both of your heart beats to increase. 

“Do you want to hit O’Riley’s after?” You ask, referencing the ice cream shop the two of you went to seemingly every day of the trip to cool off on your walk back to the campsite after a day full of activities. 

Vinnie pulls out his wallet from his shorts to pay for the expensive meal while looking at you with a smile on his face. “Great minds think alike.” 

Without another word you two leave the fancy restaurant hand in hand while receiving glares from the regular patrons. Throughout your short walk to the popular ice cream parlor in town the two of you reminisce about the past week and a half together. It honestly felt like a dream. 

“You know I wanted to hold your hand on the hike today, but I couldn’t keep up with you and Zeus.” Vinnie says, recalling the hike you guys went on along with Reggie and your brother. 

“Clearly you need to work on your stamina, City Boy. That incline wasn’t even that bad.” You joke poking Vinnie in the stomach before leaving his grasp to wander over to the menu of ice cream flavours. Vinnie was infatuated with everything about you and he adored how you made fun of him for being from Seattle. The blond lets out a laugh and follows you, wrapping his arms around your waist and placing his chin on the top of your head as he analyzed the menu as well. Almost instantly you melted into his touch. 

“Okay Snow White.” He retorts back remembering how basically every animal or even bug seemingly gravitated towards you throughout the trip. 

“What can I say Vinnie. I’m just that captivating.” You say turning to look at Vinnie before winking. 

After a few minutes of waiting in line and you changing your mind on what flavour you wanted for the fifth time the two of you finally order and make your way over to a bench nearby. You weren’t a stranger to Lake Chelan and what you loved most about the small town was how close everything was. In fact the bench you and Vinnie decided to sit down on wasn’t too far from O’Riley’s, but it was close enough to the lake to witness the scenic view in full. 

Once you two sat down you guys instantly turned to each other and tapped the other’s ice cream cones, causing some of your ice cream to transfer to Vinnie’s and some of Vinnie’s to transfer to yours. You introduced this small practice to Vinnie on the third day of hanging out together. In which the reason behind it was simply because you’ve been doing it ever since you were little for good luck and to have a small taste of the other person’s ice cream. 

Vinnie watches as you taste his flavour, red velvet while your eyes light up, causing him to smile. “Holy shit yours is good.” You say before taking a lick of your flavour which was blueberry cheese cake. The blond laughs in amusement as your face of delight quickly turns into disgust. 

“Yea I definitely should have gotten yours or moose tracks.” 

Without hesitating Vinnie softly takes your ice cream cone out of your hand and switches it with his. “There you go.” 

“Vinnie, no this is yours.” You say reaching for your ice cream back, but he simply puts his hand above you and ultimately out of your reach. 

Vinnie laughs playfully as he watches you attempt to reach the cone with your original flavour from your spot beside him. “Y/N like I said earlier, anything for you.” 

You roll your eyes at the blonds cheesiness, but you end up sitting back down placing your head on his shoulder while heat washed over your body at how he made you feel.  

The sound of kids riding their bikes, crickets and birds splashing in the lake could be heard while the setting sun continued to reflect off of the water. “It’s so beautiful here.” You say after swallowing your last bite and taking in the view in front of you. 

“Yea it is.”

You turn to Vinnie and your heart begins to race when you notice he was already looking at you. Some may think this moment was cliche, but to you it was perfect. In fact your hopeless romantic dreams were being fulfilled. 

Vinnie’s gaze on you was intense and you couldn’t bring yourself to break it. Instead you found yourself flickering your eyes down to his plump lips and back up to his brown eyes. Vinnie follows your lead and his proximity causes your breath to hitch. 

Without wasting another second Vinnie finally moves in and acts on what he has been wanting to do ever since he got to know you. His lips meet yours and you instantly kiss back, wanting for this to happen for a while yourself. 

The kiss was short yet sweet and passionate while leaving both of you flustered. You place your head back onto Vinnie’s shoulder, your hand finding his and intertwining your fingers. A comfortable silence falls upon you two as both of you take in the perfect moment.

“I don’t want this trip to end.” Vinnie says breaking the silence while rubbing his thumb across your skin and admiring the scenic view in front of him. 

It scared Vinnie how fast his feelings for you developed and continued to do so and he was quite frankly disappointed that you guys live so far away from each other. Although you both lived in the same state you lived closer to Portland while he remained in Seattle. You two created a once in a lifetime connection throughout a camping trip and it seemed as if it was going to end just like that. 

“I promise I’ll say goodbye and give you my number before we leave tomorrow don’t worry.” You say lifting your head off of Vinnie’s shoulder before placing a kiss on his cheek. The whole trip you refused to give Vinnie your number or social medias simply because you realized their was more to life than the internet. You would rather be going hiking or playing in the rain than being on your phone, which Vinnie adored considering he was so consumed with his platform on TikTok. 

However, your promise would ultimately be broken when Vinnie woke up the next morning. The blond boy walked over to your campsite with a small bouquet of wildflowers he picked along the way. He could hear the beat of his heart in every step he took, knowing this would be the last time he saw you for a while. 

When Vinnie reached your campsite his heart and the bouquet of flowers simultaneously dropped at the same time. Your site was empty. In fact, it looked as if you and your family didn’t even stay there. The only thing that proved that you were there were the tire tracks of your families RV. Now the site was ready for the next group of campers to come in and make their own memories. 

Even though you and Vinnie only spent a week and a half together it felt like you two created a lifetime worth of intimate moments and memories. He doesn’t understand how he got so attached to you in such a short amount of time, but he did. The blond boy lets out a deep sigh before turning around to go back to his site, leaving the memories you two created and flowers he brought you behind. 

- 

Vinnie lets out a big yawn as he stretches in bed. He grabs his phone and checks the time. 2:43pm. The night before the blond streamed Valorant on twitch until 4 in the morning so there was no wonder as to why he was just waking up. Deciding to stay in bed for a little longer, Vinnie cuddles into his sheets and opens TikTok, Hera joining him a little bit later.

As he scrolls he likes a few and comments on some of his friends posts. However, his incessant scrolling comes to a stop when his for you page lands on a video of Nai’s. Vinnie watches it, but as he does so a familiar face is shown causing his heart rate to increase while butterflies erupted in his stomach. Who knew that one person could still elicit these feelings out of him two years later?

There was no way. It couldn’t be you in the video. Yet there you were in Nai’s tiktok showing off your gecko. You looked the same, but so different at the same time. Vinnie couldn’t help himself, but to watch the tiktok a few more times, every time his smile getting bigger and his heart fuller. 

Luckily for him Nai tagged you in the caption in which Vinnie took this opportunity to check out your profile and make sure it was actually you and his mind wasn’t playing tricks on him. Right away he knew it was in fact you. 

You had just under a million followers and were on the brink of getting verified. As Vinnie scrolled through your profile he finds your first tiktok that went viral and ultimately kick started your career. The video was of you eight months ago running and dancing around in the rain in the middle of the road. Vinnie smiles as he watches and he couldn’t help, but to feel flustered at the fact he finally found you after all these years. 

It made him happy to see that you seemingly stayed the same personality wise. From what he remembered you loved everything about nature and animals so there was no surprise to see your account full of videos of you enjoying what you loved. In fact your most viral videos consisted of your ring neck parakeet, Athena. 

Just as Vinnie was about to hit the follow button on your account a text from Alex popped up. 

I was planning on throwing a chill party tonight is that okay?

He clicked and stared at the message for a few seconds. Seemingly Nai would be invited which meant if you were with her still Nai would likely bring you as her plus one. 

Yea ofc. 

Vinnie spent the rest of the day going through your social media accounts. He wanted to follow you on every platform possible, but he didn’t want that to creep you out so he decided it was best to wait and see if you came tonight. After all his odds were looking in his favour as the time until the get together dwindled and you and Nai continued to post with each other. 

The blond walks out of his washroom freshly showered with a towel around his waist and into his large room. He could hear a bunch of voices and music coming from down stairs so the party must have already started. Just as Vinnie was about to drop his towel to get dressed a familiar voice is heard from the other side of his door. 

“Knock knock!” Nai shouts. 

“One sec!” Vinnie calls out quickly, throwing on boxers and a pair of black cargo pants before rummaging through his dresser for a shirt. “Come in!” 

Almost instantly the door flies open revealing Nailea in all her glory. Vinnie glances over to her in hopes you were with the brunette, but his hopes fall when he see’s you’re no where to be found. 

“You seriously need to stop making thirst traps in the shower we all thought you slipped and died with how long you were taking.” Nai says walking into the room and flopping onto Vinnie’s bed. 

Vinnie lets out a laugh while he continued to look for a shirt he wanted to wear, his mind being clouded with thoughts of you. Nai was wearing the same outfit she was wearing in the instagram stories she posted with you today so where were you? 

Just as Vinnie turns around, putting on a shirt with the intent to discretely ask Nai about you a familiar, but nostalgic voice could be heard in the hallway over Alex’s loud laugh from downstairs. “Nai?” 

“In here!” 

“Jeez this house is huge I need a map just to leave the washroom.” You say walking into the unfamiliar bedroom. As you do so your eyes lock with Vinnie’s and both of your heart rates increase significantly. Heat washes over you under Vinnie’s gaze and you couldn’t help, but to feel confused. He looked so familiar, but you couldn’t put your finger on where you recognize him from. 

Vinnie on the other hand felt as if his heart was going to beat out of his chest. Throughout the past few years he imagined scenarios where he would run into you back at home or at Lake Chelan, but finally being in your presence again caused him to not know how to act. 

“Y/N this is Vinnie the friend of mine I wanted you to meet.” Nai says looking at you. “And Vinnie this is Y/N. I think you guys will click instantly especially since you’re both from Washington.” 

“Nice to meet you. Can I sit?” You ask nodding over to Vinnie’s bed where Nai was sitting, petting Hera. 

“Y-yea of course.” The blond stutters out causing his cheeks to go red. However, a pang of hurt rings throughout the boys heart when he realizes you don’t remember him. 

Quickly you make your way over to Vinnie’s bed and without wasting another second you extend your hand out for Hera to smell before petting her. Vinnie watches as you do so. You looked even more beautiful than when he first met you two years prior, if that was even possible. Although you looked slightly different due to the fact you graciously grew into your features Vinnie could tell your personality stayed the same as you continued to gravitate towards animals. 

“What’s this cuties name?” You ask scratching under Hera’s chin, causing her to purr before you smile at Vinnie. 

“Her name is Hera.” 

You let out a gasp, “Did you know Hera was married to Zeus?” You say, recalling your past obsession of Greek Mythology. By now Nai was zoned out of your conversation and was scrolling on tiktok. 

“Yea I actually named her after a girl that I met at Lake Chelan, who’s dog was named Zeus.” Vinnie says with a toothy smile on his face. 

Your eyes widen and you look back over to the blond, your heart beating a mile a minute while you finally connected the dots. 

“City boy?” You breathe out. 

[hopelikethemoon]

a night out (Javier x Reader) [smut]

Title: a night out  Rating: explicit  Warnings: mild angst, smut (oral sex f receiving, non-explicit sex), fluff, Daddy!Javi Summary: A year later, Reader and Javier go out to dinner with the Murphys and their friends.  Notes: Set in 1994. Part six of maybe today, maybe forever. If you don’t like this, don’t let me know. I didn’t really feel that secure with this little ficlet, but I’m posting it anyways. 

“So how did you guys meet?” Tracy asked as she held onto the straw in her fruity cocktail and sucked at it, looking between you and Javier. To her left, her husband Jeff was wedged into the booth beside her, peering over his thick-rimmed glasses. 

They were friends with Steve and Connie — mostly Connie, since Tracy and her worked the same shifts at the hospital. But so far Steve and Connie were running late for dinner, which meant painfully tense conversation with a couple that were a little too “Florida” for you and Javi. 

“Work.” Javier answered shortly, lifting his bottle of beer and taking a sip. You glanced at him, smirking when you saw the way his eyes were scanning the front of the restaurant — glorified Tiki Bar — for any signs of the Murphys. 

 Jeff snapped his fingers, “That’s right you worked with Steve in Columbia.” He turned to his wife, “Sweetie, Javier and Steve took down Pablo Escobar.” The way he said ‘Javier’ was really starting to grate on your nerves. 

Javier’s beer bottle clinked against the top of the table with a little more effort, brows furrowed. “It wasn’t just Steve and me—”

“I was there too.” You asserted, giving Javier’s thigh a squeeze beneath the table. “I think we’re both glad to be out though.”

Javier nodded, reaching beneath the table to give your hand a squeeze. “It feels good to be back in the states.”

You curled your fingers around your beer bottle and took a swig, rolling your wrist to slosh the beer around inside the bottle. “I think Florida’s heat could almost rival Bogotá.” 

Javi nodded, glancing towards the door again. “So what do you do, Jeff?”

Jeff sat up straighter, adjusting his glasses. “I work at NASA. Been there for about a decade now. It’s an absolute honor.” 

“Cool shit,” Javi hummed. “We took Josie to watch the Columbia launch back in March. I’ve never been bitten by so many goddamn mosqu-“ He shifted, leaning out of the booth to wave at Steve as he and Connie entered the bar.

Finally. 

The six of you settled into the round booth, ordering another round of drinks and — at Jeff’s insisting — a basket of gator bites for the table. 

“So what did you do at the DEA?” Jeff questioned you, wagging a finger in your direction. “Secretary? Typist?”

Connie leaned close to you and whispered, “Sexist.” She masked it well, coughing politely. 

“I worked with Javi and Steve.” You corrected, “Field agent.”

“Oh wow!” Tracy gawked. “That must’ve been so dangerous.”

“I got shot twice.” You said flatly, leaning into Javi as he wrapped his arm around your shoulders. “I lived it though.”

Steve took a drink of his beer before he added, “She was a damn good agent. Kept us in line, well mostly kept Javi in line. I never got into trouble.”

You rolled your eyes, “That’s because you’re not a dumbass like Javier.”

“Baby.” Javier drawled out with a laugh, squeezing your shoulder. 

“How old is your daughter?” Tracy questioned. 

“She turned one last month.” Javier answered, reaching into his back pocket to pull out his wallet. Inside he had a whole fold out plastic sleeve of pictures of her. “That one,” He pointed at the most recent photo. “My pops came over from Texas to celebrate.” It was a picture of the two men holding her hands as they helped her up over a curb. “Never did crawl, rolled right over and started running.”

“That’s because every chance you got, you were trying to teach her how to walk.” You nudged him the ribs. “She’s got him wrapped around her finger.” 

“Wasn’t her first word daddy?” Steve questioned. 

“How could it be anything else?” You laughed, pressing a kiss to Javi’s cheek. “She’s your biggest fan.”

Steve gestured at you with his beer bottle, “Have you decided if we get to be her godparents? Seeing as I’m basically the reason she even exists.”

“Fuck off, Murphy.” Javi quipped as he took a drink. 

“Steve.” Connie chastised. 

“What? It’s the truth.” He shrugged. 

“This sounds like a story.” Jeff said with a jovial laugh. 

Javi flipped Steve off, “It’s not much of a story.” He ran his hand over your back, flashing you a charming grin. “Steve leaving was the kick in the ass I needed to realize how I felt.” 

“Oh, is that the story you’re sticking with?” Steve teased and you quickly interrupted before Javi had the chance to ring his neck. 

“These gator bites were better than I expected,” You remarked, gesturing to the half-eaten basket of food. “They taste like chicken.” 

Javi squeezed your shoulder. “The sauce was good.” He finished off his beer and sat it down, looking around for the waitress. She was very attentive every time Javier called her to the table, which you weren’t the least bit surprised by. 

“So,” Jeff started, trying to keep the conversation alive while the table waited for the entrees. “What are you doing now that you’re out of the DEA?”

“I’ve been working at the local PD off and on.” You answered with a shrug, popping another gator bite into your mouth, wiping your fingers off on the napkin your beer had been sat on. “Consulting, mostly. There’s a pretty big drug scene in Miami, so I’m lending my knowledge.” 

Javier’s hand found yours beneath the table, his fingers curling around yours. He took another swig of beer before answering, “I’m in talks with the DEA. They’ve got an office down the road from our condos, but I haven’t made my mind up.” 

Steve clicked his tongue against his teeth, “I’m sure they’re ready to welcome you back with open arms.” 

He clenched his jaw, which prompted you to squeeze his hand under the table. “I’m sure they’re chomping at the bit.” 

The conversation didn’t make it much further than that, with the waitress bringing the food over. 

“And I brought you some more of the sriracha sauce,” The waitress told Javi with a grin and a too-obvious flutter of her lashes. “I heard you say that you liked it.” 

Javier seemed absolutely oblivious, however. “Uh, thanks.” He looked at the little container of sauce, giving you a sideways look. “What the hell am I supposed to do with this? Put it on my burger?” He questioned you.

You couldn’t help but laugh, nudging him in the ribs. “She was flirting with you.” You plucked the sauce off his plate, sitting in your basket of fried shrimp. “But I can use it.” 

His brows furrowed together as he looked at you, head cocked to the side. “That would explain the prompt service.” 

“The only reason I got a refill was because you waved her down,” Connie remarked with a laugh. 

“I’ve got to say it,” Steve started, shoving a fry into his mouth before using another to gesture between you and Javier. “I didn’t think I’d live to see the day that Javier wouldn’t catch on that some chick was hitting on him.” 

Javier flipped Steve off as he bit into his burger. 

Jeff cleared his throat, “So what was Columbia like? We considered going there for our honeymoon, but went to Paris instead.” 

Your brows shot upwards and you tried hard to resist the urge to laugh. That, right there, summed up the two WASPS that the Murphys had invited to dinner. There was no chance in hell that they’d considered Columbia for their honeymoon.

Steve shoved another fry into his mouth, “Hot as shit.” 

You nodded in agreement, “Almost as hot as Florida. Not quite as sticky.” 

“We had fun though, didn’t we Javi?” Steve peered around you and Connie to look at Javi. “Looking forward to getting back at it.”

“Yeah.” Javier seemed tense beside you and you arched a curious brow at him. He’d only finished half of his burger and didn’t seem particularly keen to finish it. 

“You good?” You whispered, giving his knee a squeeze beneath the table.

He gave a short nod of his head, sighing heavily. “Anyone got a light?” 

Jeff, of course, produced one — passing it across the table. Javier snatched it from him and slid out of the booth promptly. 

“I thought he stopp—” Connie started.

“He did.” You slid out after him. In fact, you knew he didn’t even have a cigarette on him.

“Gotta make sure that waitress doesn’t follow after him. Right?” Jeff remarked to the table and only Tracy laughed as you left. 

You followed Javier out the backdoor of the bar to a patio area that was used for shitty outdoor seating during the summer. They’d gone a little heavy-handed with the tiki theme, but that was over half of the bars in Florida. 

“Don’t worry,” Javier remarked as he turned around to face you, hands on his hips. “I’m not smoking. I just needed some goddamn air.” 

“Columbia?” You questioned, folding your arms across your chest as you approached him.

“I fucking hate talking about it.” He flexed his jaw, staring down at the ground.  

“I know.” You stopped in front of him, reaching up to brush your fingers over his jaw. “Steve means well.”

Javier sighed, turning his face so he could kiss your palm. “Yeah, he does. I don’t know how to tell him that I don’t want back in.”

“You just tell him that.”

“It’s not that easy, baby.” He reached out and rested a hand on your waist, squeezing gently. “I know he wants us to be partners again. Just like old times.” Javi shook his head. “So much shit happened in Columbia that I’m not proud of.”

You nodded your head understandingly. “You’re going to have to tell him.”

“I know.” Javier dragged his fingers through his hair, shaking his head slowly. “Shit.” 

“It doesn’t have to be a hard no.” You suggested gently. “Maybe in a couple of months you’ll decide you do want back in.” You traced your fingertips along his jaw, scratching lightly at the scruff that had started to grow in there. “He knows how much you enjoy staying home with Josie.” 

“I’m in a good place, you know?” Javier questioned you, his teeth digging into his bottom lip as he glanced away. “The DEA expects so much out of a person.” He let out an incredulous chuckle. “Went down there for that meeting and they were going on and on about my record. How I’d do anything for the case down there.” He looked back at you then. “I’ve got you and Josie to worry about now. I don’t want to sell my soul just to bag another drug lord.” 

You reached out and took his hand into yours as you stepped closer to him. “It’s a shame the sitter just paged us.” You suggested with a faint smirk on your lips. 

Javier glanced down at the pager on his hip before his eyes slowly lifted to meet yours again, a brow arching upwards curiously. “We’ve still got to pay Melissa if we go back early.” 

“I didn’t say we were going home.” 

He brushed a lock of hair behind your ear, grinning down at you. “Goddamn, I love you.” 

You leaned up and kissed him, your fingers curling around the back of his neck as you let it linger longer than necessary. 

“Everything alright out here?”

It was the waitress. Of course it was the waitress. 

“We’re good,” You answered, looping your arm around Javier’s waist. 

“Smoke break.” Javier added, flicking the zippo on for show. “Ready to go back in?” He glanced down at you.

“Yep.” You kept his hand in yours as you made your way back to the table. Steve looked a little paler than he had when you left, giving you and Javi a wary look like maybe Connie had told him off for pushing at the DEA thing. You’d already mentioned to Connie that you didn’t think Javier was ready to get back into the DEA — which you had hoped she’d relay back to Steve in that way wives (or partners) did to get the point across. 

“Unfortunately,” Javier started as he pulled his wallet out of his back pocket. “Melissa’s having a hell of a time putting Miss Josie back to sleep after a nightmare.”

“Oh no!” Tracy said — like she actually cared. “That’s so terrible.” 

“So, we’re going to head out.” You explained as Javier threw down money to cover your meals and the tip. 

“Don’t forget your share of the gator bites.” Jeff reminded Javier and he glowered as he tossed another couple bucks down on the table.

Connie slid out of the booth and hugged you goodbye. “Are we good?”

You nodded as you pulled back. “It’ll be fine.” 

She let out a breath of relief. “Thank God.” 

“You know, Javi.” You shrugged. 

Jeff dug around in his wallet for a business card, passing it to Javi with an offer to hang out and play golf someday soon. The business card ended up in the first trashcan you passed on the way back to the car. 

“How the hell do the Murphys put up with them?” He lamented as he settled into the driver’s seat, shutting off the music just as some country singer started to croon. 

You laughed, “I have no idea. Maybe Tracy’s cooler away from her husband.” 

“Are you cooler away from me?” He questioned, one hand on the steering wheel on the other on your thigh. It still annoyed the shit out of you when he traced those little circles against your leg, but you never brought it up. 

You considered the question for a moment, humming thoughtfully. “I don’t know. You’re not a pocket protector, so I don’t think your presence affects my coolness.” 

Javier chuckled, glancing at you as he rolled up to the stop sign. “So, we’ve got about an hour to kill… What’d you have planned?”

Pushing your fingers through your hair, you looked out the window. “Think the ice cream place on the boardwalk is still open?”

Javier glanced at his wristwatch, “If we head over there now I think you’re in luck, baby.” He squeezed your leg and started in that direction. 

“Needless to say,” You started, settling down onto the bench beside Javi, licking a drop of ice cream off your fingers as they curled around your cone. “I think we narrowly dodged a lifetime of Bunko weekends.”

“Bunko and golf.” He dramatically shuddered, nudging your leg with his. “Can you imagine me golfing?” He snorted. 

You made a face, “I’d have to check to see if you were an alien.” 

Javier clicked his tongue against his teeth, before sweeping his tongue over his ice cream. Which you watched, with rapt attention. “Was that waitress really flirting with me?”

You tilted your head back and laughed. “It was obnoxious.” You licked at your ice cream before adding, “After she seated us, her shirt got about four inches lower.” 

“It didn’t even phase me.” He admitted with a shrug of his shoulders.

“Awww,” You said teasingly. “Javi, do you love me?”

“Shut up,” He rolled his eyes and slapped your leg playfully. 

“If you make me drop my ice cream—“

“You’ll what?” He leaned over and licked your ice cream. 

“Son of a bitch!”

Javier chuckled. “Such loving words.”

You started to offer him a bit of turn about, but he got you in the nose with his ice cream instead. “Jackass.” You groused, wiping your nose off. 

He shrugged and laughed. “If the shoe fits.”

“You’re lucky you're handsome.” You said dryly. “Even though everyone makes it obvious.” 

“As long as you think I’m handsome, I think I’m good.” Javier remarked, patting your leg. “This was nice.”

You nodded, “Much better than tiki bar chic.” Your eyes flickered towards his face, lingering on his lips. “I really hope Josie stays asleep when we get home.”

“Me too.” Javier’s fingers danced along your inner thigh through your jeans. He leaned over and pressed a quick kiss to your lips. “We’ve got to get the sitter more often.”

“For more than just nights out with Steve and Connie.” You scooted closer to him, resting your cheek on his shoulder. The sun had dipped below the horizon hours ago, but the constant ebb and flow of the ocean as it met the coast line could be heard through darkness. 

Javier draped his arm over your shoulders, fingers curling around your shoulder and giving it three little squeezes. “Florida’s not so bad.” He remarked, scratching at his jaw as he stared out into the darkness beyond the boardwalk. 

“It feels like home.” You mused. 

“Anywhere with you and Josie feels like home, baby.” He kissed the top of your head. 

 ——

You tiptoed down the hallway from Josie’s nursery, giving Javier a thumbs up as he stood outside of the bedroom. “Out cold, with her thumb still in her mouth.” You whispered, stopping in front of him, you breath a little shaky as you looked up at him.

“Good.” He brushed his fingertips over your forehead, pushing hair back behind your ears. Javier hooked his fingers into your belt loops, pulling you close as he leaned down to catch your lips. 

You curled a hand around the back of his neck, your other hand working at the buttons of his shirt. 

Javi groaned against your lips, walking backwards further into the bedroom. You managed to get the shirt unbuttoned, shoving it down his arms and abandoning it on the floor. 

You nipped lightly on his bottom lip, moving forward until the backs of his legs hit the edge of the bed. 

He reluctantly stopped kissing you, sitting back onto the bed as his eyes raked over you in the dim light of your bedroom, illuminated only by the bedside lamp. 

You peeled off your shirt, tossing it aside as you stood between his legs. 

“You are fucking gorgeous,” Javier drawled out as he leaned in to press a kiss a path down your stomach, his hands smoothing over your sides. He bit at the soft flesh of your stomach, his teeth scraping lightly before his tongue soothed over it. Heat pooled between your thighs and a moan escaped you as he slid one hand up to roughly palm at your breast through your bra. 

Javier pulled you close, dragging down you onto the bed with him and you couldn’t help but giggle as he rolled you over, caging you beneath him. He covered your mouth, shushing you with a wry grin and you stuck your tongue out and licked his palm. You reached down to work at getting his pants off, but he caught your hand and pinned it to the bed above your head. “Javi.” 

“I have plans.” He told you, dipping down to kiss you. “Keep your hands right there.” Javier started kissing down your throat as he unclasped the front of your bra, cupping your breasts.

You drew in a ragged breath as you kept your hands above your head, fingers grabbing at the blanket beneath you as he kept kissing lower and lower. He peeled off your jeans and underwear off — tossing them over the side of the bed. 

His mouth descended upon your slick cunt, his tongue delving between your folds. It killed you to not be able to thread your fingers through his hair as he ate you out. You bit down on your bottom lip, trying not to cry out as he sucked lightly at your clit. The last thing you wanted was to accidentally wake Josie up — not when you were so close. 

“Fuck.” You breathed out, ignoring his request as you reached down to grab at his hair. Your inner walls were already starting to pulse around nothing as he lavished you sensitive little bud with attention. You rolled your hips, desperate for more. He stopped abruptly. 

Javier pulled back, his lips glistening with your arousal. “Didn’t I tell you to keep your hands above your head?”

“Javier.” You said sharply, tugging at his hair. “Don’t tease.” 

He dipped down and pressed a kiss to each of your thighs, before he sat back on his knees. You leaned up on your elbows, chewing on your bottom lip as you watched him get off the bed to take off his jeans and boxers. You still had to marvel at the fact that Javier Peña was yours.

If someone had told you five years ago when you started in Columbia that you would end up the mother of Javier Peña’s daughter and become the woman who went to sleep beside him every night… you would have laughed your ass off. The very fact that he now seemed oblivious to the women flirting with him was even more hilarious. You had seen him in action at bars before, you knew exactly how he operated. But now he was all yours and he’d changed — on his own — for the better. Who knew fatherhood was what he’d needed to get his act together. 

Javier kissed his way back up your body, hands gripping at your hips as he settled between your thighs. Your back arched as he slid into you — clenching around his cock. He grunted out something that sounded like your name, his face pressed into the crook of your neck. “So good, baby.”

You wrapped one leg around him, rolling your hips to urge him on. There was no real urgency in the way you moved or the languid way he thrust into you. It was the perfect way to close out the day. 

—— 

Javier was already out of bed by the time you woke up — later than you usually did, but you were thankful for the few extra minutes of sleep. You grabbed your housecoat off the back of the door, heading into the kitchen to find him.

He was at the stove flipping pancakes as he hummed along to Fields of Gold as it played over the radio above the sink. Josie was contentedly sitting in her high chair, playing with the small pancake he’d already made for her, pretending to flip it with her plastic spatula. Always trying to be like daddy.

“Morning.” You said warmly as you wrapped your arms around his waist, pressing her cheek against the flat of his shoulder.

He squeezed your hand, “Morning, baby.” Javier turned in your arms, wrapping his own around you. “You sleep well?”

You nodded and grinned. “Did you?”

“Like a rock.” He kissed your forehead before turning his attention back to the pancakes. “Hungry?”

“Starving.” You answered, going over to scoop Josie out of her high chair. She giggled and babbled, mostly making sense in her attempt to tell you that daddy was making pancakes.

“You’re going to need a bath,” You told her, kissing her little palm. “You’re gonna be so sticky.”

“What can she say? She enjoys her food.” He remarked, popping his head over your shoulder — much to Josie’s amusement. “Someone was trying to escape her crib this morning.”

“Oh, Lord.” You made a face at your daughter. “Every day you’re just a new surprise, aren’t you? 

“Da-da-daddy.” She clenched her hands in his direction 

“Here.” You passed her off to him, “I’ll finish the pancakes.” You kissed his cheek as you stepped around him. 

Javier showed Josie in kisses, before he carried her over to the table to sit on his lap while he drank his coffee. “I think I’m gonna call Steve today.”

“Yeah?” You glanced back at him with an arched brow.

“I’m just gonna tell him I’m not ready.” He answered, bouncing Josie on his knee. “Like you said. Maybe in a couple months I’ll want to get back in.” He rubbed at the side of his neck, shrugging. “Might take him out for drinks. Smooth things over.”

“Probably a good idea.” You agreed. 

“No. That’s not for you.” Javier chuckled as he sat his coffee cup further out of Josie’s reach. “I know I was an a-s-s last night.” He told you, spelling out since Josie was there. 

“I mean,” You shrugged a shoulder. “Steve was too. He was definitely baiting to get a rise out of you.” 

Josie crawled her way back up Javi’s lap, nestling against his stomach with her cheek on his chest. He rubbed her back gently, playing with the soft dark curls at the nape of her neck. She had a head of hair not dissimilar from her father’s. 

You shut off the stovetop, before carrying the plates of pancakes over to the table. “Just talk to him, I’m sure he’ll understand.” 

“Talk?” Javier chuckled. “Now, you know we can’t do that.”

“Oh, right.” You laughed as you took Josie out of his arms, putting her back in her highchair. “You’ll just sit at a bar and grunt occasionally. It’ll solve everything.”

“Hey,” He started, gesturing towards Josie. “A lot can come out of a bar. 

You rolled your eyes. “We did make it back to your apartment.” 

Javier grinned at you, “I’m just saying.” 

“You’re ridiculous.” You quipped, looking towards Josie as you cut a piece of pancake for her. “Daddy’s ridiculous, isn’t he? Can you say ridiculous?” 

Josie beamed at you, “Redick-dick.” 

You cringed. “Nope. We’re not going to say that. 

Javier couldn’t help but laugh, “I mean, that’s pretty fuc-... freaking cute.” 

You flipped him off behind Josie’s highchair. “You’re lucky I love you.” 

He grinned at you. 

[blackevermore]

x Secrets of The Lake: The Company of Misery and Pain

{ Chapter 6 }

Summary: Vladimir Masters’ family tree has always been tainted by secrets swept under the rug. From generation to generation there have been countless reasons the Masters’ family had seemed to keep private from the public. Even to this day, Vladimir was no exception. But what was one to do when a restless spirit from the settlement years finally breaks free from restraints and demands you answer for your ancestor’s crimes? Vladimir doesn’t know. However, Clockworks does.

Notes: We just having fun, rewriting some of the canon, new adventure new characters. I will apologize now for any grammar, spelling, weird sentence structuring in advance. My brain writes faster than my fingers and even when I go back through to reread it I still miss things. Sorry about that!

Word Count: 2681

Maybe Danny should have stayed for dinner, gone home late and stayed long enough to defuse Dani’s anger towards Vlad. She was still mad at Danny but at least she would talk to him. This wasn’t the first time he has upset his daughter and had a silent dinner with her, that was bound to happen in the life of a parent who didn’t necessarily raise their kid. But this silent death had an added bonus of Dani staring at Vlad with a hint of confusion. Vlad tried his best to ignore it and pick at his food but the way her eyes seemed to dig further and further into his being it was impossible to ignore her.

“Danielle, I’m sure you are aware that staring is rude, no matter how much the other person upset you.” Vlad tried to sound as calm as possible as he spoke and for the most part it worked. Dani's eyes shot down towards her food and she quickly took a bite off her plate. Vlad sighed and decided he was done for the night, he wasn’t that hungry anyway, he snapped his fingers for the maid to come and clean. 

“Ya’know you could just get up and take it to the kitchen like a human.” Dani mockingly stated dragging out the word human just to emphasize her point. Vlad rose a brow and looked at her a bit bewildered but accepting the remark.

“As should you use the stairs to get to your room or anywhere else in the house. I know it's rather large but humans do it all the time.” Vlad couldn’t hide his amusement as Dani gave him a look of ‘shut up old man’. That spitfire attitude was all Danny’s and only 2% Vlad. Had Vlad had it his way a very long time ago, Danny would be his son doing the same thing and maybe Dani would have been there as well. Vlad hummed to himself then shook his head, one Danny of any sorts at a time. Two of them at once, Vlad was sure he would actually age past what he was physically. 

“I would like to apologize, Vlad took hold of his drink and took a sip to clear his throat. Apologies were still rather new to him and even if he truly meant it, it almost pained him to get it out. “Both Daniel and I know you only want to help. You are a natural born hero and we know it. But you have to understand that we are not trying to stop you because we think you can’t handle it. We are stopping you because what happened while we were in the Ghost Zone was even out of our hands. The last thing either of us wants is for you to be hurt trying to save us. Danny already had to drag me back home.” Vlad mutters the last bit, still embarrassed how easily he was defeated.

Dani untense her shoulders and lets out a sigh as she avoids making eye contact with Vlad. She gets it, she does, but she hasn't fought any bad guys in a while. Danny has been going out still on patrols while she was stuck at home because ‘you have school tomorrow’ was the excuse thrown at her. Even when she went home with Vlad she was still off limits from patrolling. If she wasn’t allowed to fight any ghost then at the very least she wanted to do was transform and fly around.

“I just wanna do something,” Dani plopped her face in her hands and sadly played with her food. Vlad nodded and gave her a sweet smile.

“Well, I can think of something that you can help with.” He said.

“Oh yeah?”

“And you can do it while in your ghost form.” Dani shot off the table and sat up straight in her chair. Vlad shook his head pleased to see her excitement once again. “I have a banquet coming this Wednesday and I haven’t gotten anything ready. I will give you full control to not only pick out the decoration, but also the theme and the staff that will entertain the guest. If you just so happen to make it ghost related I wouldn’t mind you putting on a show.”

Dani smiled but rolled her eyes and fell back into her chair.

“You put me on hosting duties but I’m not complaining. I get to go ghost!” Dani shrugged and picked up her fork to finish her plate. Vlad was actually impressed that she didn’t complain more. Had he ever said that to Danny, the boy would have complained the whole way through learning how to tie a tie.

“I will handle the menu, of course, but you have to tell me everything you want by tomorrow so we can prepare.” Vlad held up a finger and wagged it back and forth.

“Yeah yeah I gotcha, one fancy dancy fun party for fancy dancy people. But add a little bit of spice.” Dani did a very bad British accent and Vlad blinked a couple of times. She held up her hand and told him not to worry about it. Vlad will never understand this new generation and he wasn’t really sure he wanted to. When Dani finished her plate he was about to call for the maids but Dani stopped him. “Don’t worry I got this.” Dani pulled back her chair and picked up her mess and started towards the kitchen. When she passed Vlad she gave him a small smile, “Thanks dad.” 

Vlad would be lying if he said hearing her say that didn’t make his heart flutter. That was another tack on the board of good things Vlad has either done or heard. Vlad smiled and continued to sit at the table until he was done with his drink. When he looked towards the grandfather clock he realized it was rather late into the night. He still had work in the morning along with making sure Dani was ready to go when he was. With that he grabbed his glass and headed towards the kitchen to put it in the sink. Then he made his way towards the grand staircase to get to his room. He enjoyed the simplicity of being human sometimes, he took it for granted for 20 years so now being able to count the stairs up was fun. But Vlad also knew that being able to slip in and out of walls and floors was a childish thrill he would never let go.

  He led her from the wagon park on the dirt trail down through the trees to a hidden garden path that led to a cottage. Along the path was a stream of water that gently passed them by as the couple made their way towards their new home. Tayonna pulled away from him as she watched the water sparkle in the faint rays of the sun. It had been so long since they’ve been back here, four long years filled with nothing but trouble after trouble. The water looked so calm, not a care in the world as it continued to flow along the rocks on an unknown adventure. She wanted that, so badly. Born into unfortunate situations and only blessed by the benefit of service. She should be grateful but it seemed like the world was not made for people like her- for none of her people. She didn’t budge when she felt thick fingers slip between hers, nor did she look towards him when he stood beside her. 

“No one can find us here, it’s far enough from the town square and just far from any prying eyes. You are free to do as you please when you are here in my company.” Vladan took Tayonna’s hand in his and led her to the stream. The poor girl could tell he meant every word he promised her but something still haunted the depths of her mind. What they had together had changed dramatically from the time she was brought into the family to now. There was love, hidden scared fragile love that they both clung to in hope of forever.

“Here is home?” Tayonna asked as she reached down to dip her fingers in the cool water then used her powers to change its direction. The water started to rush upward towards the cottage before she lifted some of it into the air to swirl around them. Vladan smiled and pulled her in close and placed a kiss on her temple. The swirls of water broke apart in small drops and hung around them in crystals before dropping to the ground.

“And home is safe, I promise.” Vladan whispered to her, snaking a hand through her tight curls and pulling her in against his chest. They were safe, nothing bad could happen to them and he was sure of it. There was nothing left to take from him.

Vlad didn’t know what to make of this dream, but he was glad it wasn’t a nightmare nor a misleading sex dream. It was just bittersweet, as if he could tell the words that came out of his mouth- er the person he was in the dream’s voice was all a lie. Every time Vlad woke up from his dreams he couldn’t remember who he was supposed to be nor where he was. Everything played out like cloudy memories until Tayonna showed up. She always looked so unhappy and tensed like she also knew he was lying. Whenever they touched in these dreams, Vlad felt his heart flutter but always by the end it broke over and over again. He couldn’t even sit up in bed and simply rolled to his side to look out his window. He looked towards his bedside table and read the digital clock, it was 1am. He had only had the peace of slumber for two hours. As he stared out the window his mind drifted back towards the issues at hand.

From what Danny had told him about the ghost in the Ghost Zone, it seemed that Tayonna played on people’s emotions. ‘So she’s heartbroken?’ Vlad thought to himself then cringed at the thought of having to deal with another heartbroken ghost. What was it about the ladies in the ghost world all suffering from bad relationships? As if someone made it out to be that was the only thing they could truly suffer from. Vlad knew what heartbreak was, or rather what it could be when the one gets away from you. And yes he did spend a few years trying to win her over with shitty plots and tricks. But now he learned to let go, or in a way learning to do so, this was a cruel joke Clockwork placed him in. Tayonna would not be getting the upper hand on him.

When his position became uncomfortable he tossed himself onto his back once more. Staring up at the decorative ceiling Vlad found it hard to close his eyes. He was very tired but he wasn’t sure if he would be able to handle another dream. If he tried to think of something else to take his mind off the dreams it would find its way back around. Vlad ran a hand through his hair and pulled the dark patch in front of his eyes. He still couldn’t believe this, he was glad Danny and Dani hadn’t brought it up when he was standing in front of them. He had caught them looking since he woke from his small coma but they never asked. He sighed in a tired defeat and pushed his hair back behind him. He wanted to sleep and he would be damned if some ghost girl would be the reason he became an insomniac again. Vlad closed his eyes and tried to will his mind to nothingness so he could get comfortable. Within a few minutes he did start to feel himself slipping away, even when a cold hand caressed his cheek and tucked his hair behind his ear, he was completely drifting away.

The next morning Vlad for once in the past few months felt completely energized. When he opened his eyes he felt his power fire to life and felt like he could take on the world. He even had a little pep in his step as he hummed through getting ready and heading downstairs. Dani noticed his good mood as soon as he stepped into the kitchen. He hadn’t done any of this since he secretly bankrupt a competing company in California completely halting silicon valley.

“What’s got you all uppity?” Dani asked with a mouth full of cereal trying to shove as much as possible before being shooed out the door. Vlad stopped in his tracks halfway through making coffee and knotted his brows then shrugged. 

“I finally got a good night's rest, I suppose it put me in a good mood.” He hummed and continued his task.

“Well that's cool, also I have an idea for your thing tomorrow.” Dani pulled out her phone and swiped through it before opening her notes. “Four seasons, since it’s almost summer I think summer should be the main event while other parts of the party make up the other seasons. We could get some ghosts to dress up and be the spirits of the seasons and impress people with “magic tricks” .” Dani was proud of her idea, she had even drawn out costumes and shown Vlad.

“When did you have time to draw up all of these?” Vlad silently asked her for her phone and when she handed it over he flipped through the notes and the designs. They weren’t masterpieces but he could envision her idea. 

“Last night before bed, duh, but I figured out almost everything for each season. I'll be handling winter of course, but I couldn’t come up with anything for autumn because of the storm last night.” Vlad handed Dani her phone back and gave her a questionable look.

“What storm?” Vlad asked, taking a sip of his now cooling coffee. Rats. He wouldn’t have time to make another one, so he shrugged and used his powers to heat it up. They are there for a reason.

“You didn’t hear it? It was like so bad, I almost thought my window was gonna cave in from the winds. Eventually, it calmed down a bit and I went to sleep. You must have slept through it.” Vlad was sure that if there was a storm he would have heard it. Especially since he was woken up just a bit past midnight. Even when he looked out his window he didn’t see any traces of raindrops. Before Vlad could ask her more about the storm his phone sounded telling him it was time to go. With that he clapped his hands to gather Dani’s attention and told her to grab her stuff. He silenced his phone and stuck it in his pocket then transferred his coffee to his travel cup.

“Ugh I can’t wait till school is out.” Dani huffed and headed out the door heading towards the car.

“Two and half more weeks and you’re a free little woman. But until then get in the car so neither of us are late.”  Vlad shut the door and locked it and headed towards the driver's seat.

“Are you dragging us back to Wisconsin this summer? I kinda wanna stay here.” Dani rubbed her neck and Vlad secretly cursed Danny for giving her bad habits.

“I planned on at least staying there a week or so, but if you wish to stay in Minnesota that’s fine. Or I can compromise with you by staying with the Fentons’ while I’m gone.” Vlad felt proud of himself, he was on a roll of giving himself dad points. This unironically must be what Jack feels like. Wow… he didn’t want to compare himself to Jack at all.

“Deal.” Dani beamed and threw in her headphones for the rather lengthy car ride. 

[eerythingisshaka]

PTA

[Trevante Rhodes x Reader]

Word Count: 1.5k

Inspired by a true story on Twitter

You gather up the stray napkins cups and plates littered on the classroom desks left behind from today’s Valentines Day party.  The kids got about a week’s worth of sugar in their system today with all of the cupcakes, cookies and candies supplied as a treat, so let the parents deal with that.  You load up the big black trash bag and tie it off before heading for the whiteboard to wipe off the leftover markings from the lesson you taught earlier today.  Since it was Valentines, it seemed like a nice idea to discuss a couple of Greek and Roman gods and goddesses, teaching their names and meanings as well as providing activities where the students built their own gods and demonstrated their invented meanings.  All went well until the great pencil stealing debate came to fruition.  

Finishing up the whiteboard cleaning, you hear your student’s voice behind you.

“Good Afternoon, miss.”  

You see seven year old Nemour standing there with his hands in his pockets.  

You look at him positively.  “I’m glad you made it back.  Is your father with you?”

Just as you ask, in walks a man suavely rubbing the top of his child’s head.  

“This your class, little man?”  His voice makes an odd tickling in the back corner of your scalp.  A man has entered the chat.  He looks up at you absentmindedly for less than a second before minutely forming into a warm expression.

“You must be Mr. Rhodes, right?”  You put on your best customer service voice before putting out your hand to shake. 

He leads his son by the shoulder gently with one hand and reaches for yours to shake with the other.  

“Last I knew.  Nice to finally meet you.  My son has so many nice things to say about you and what he learns when he comes home.”

You sputter, a little speechless from the compliment.  His grip still cradles your hand in his: palm hot but not sweaty and soft despite the obvious work he does to achieve that body.  His biceps can’t hide anywhere from his heather grey tshirt, in a permanent flex. 

“I am really happy to have your son in my class actually.  He is beyond bright and helpful even, but let’s sit down before discussing this further.”

“After you.”  He offers as you finally pull your hand from his, walking over with a subtle switch to your desk with two chairs sat beside it.  Everyone takes a seat before you begin again.

“So I do want to start off by thanking you for coming in, on Valentines at that.  I don’t take for granted that this is out of the way so I appreciate you sharing the time.”

He shrugs.  “I don’t have no plans.  I wish I was here though, looks like you all shut it down.”

The room was heavily decorated with hearts and streamers of pink and red colors, and little Cupids adorned each child’s desk.

You smile nervously.  “It’s a fun holiday to celebrate so I manage what I can to show that.”

Nemour adds, “We learned about Eros and Arrodit today!”

Mr. Rhodes looks at his son with wide eyed wonder.  “Oh yeah?  Who’s that?”

Nemour shifts in his seat excitedly.  “Um um Eros and Apostrophe are love gods!  They like love and give it to people!”

“You mean Aphrodite, but awesome Nemour, that’s right!”  You encourage your student.

Trevante smiles brightly at his child offering a high five.   “That’s what I like to hear, my boy learning.”

You admire the father son bond in front of you so much, you can tell you’re absolutely melting into your chair.  You could watch them all day but there is still business to take care of.

“But I do want to address what occurred in class today just so that it doesn’t become a habit or bigger than it already is.  Nemour had been accused of taking someone’s pencil today.”

Mr. Rhodes stares at you in a way that makes you clear your throat to fill the silence.  He doesn’t look upset, if anything he looks amused by this topic, eyes smiling with a little tuck of his lips.

“And…”  He goes on.

“…and it was a pencil we reward students with perfect attendance.  It’s pretty specific and the student requested it back but by the time the party started and the day was done the pencil isn’t accounted for.”

Trevante wiggles his legs back and forth with an arm over the back of his son’s chair.  “Haven’t y’all got a box of these perfect attendance pencils to replace the lost one?”

You dance around the answer.  “The point is that it was taken in the first place.  We keep pencils in a cup at the front of the class-”

“Mixed in with everybody else’s?”

“Yes and-”

“So people can just take any pencil…”  He draws out the statement as a question.

You didn’t expect an argument.  “W-well that is the point.  So a student can’t say they forgot their pencil or don’t have one, they can get one from the cup.  We set them together to sharpen them towards the end of the day.”

“And you think keeping a nice pencil along with the basic ones is the best thing around some bright eyed seven years old?”  He asks, stroking his chin for emphasis. “Sounds like some Reagan level trapping.  Son, do you know who Reagan is?”

“No.”  He says.

“Well, back in the 80s-”

You start to feel hot under the collar by his defiance and possible straying into the crack epidemic.  “Nemour, do you mind going to sharpen the cup of pencils while we finish up talking?”  

“Cool!”  Nemour cheers as he walks across to the cup and takes one pencil to begin sharpening.  

“Mr. Rhodes-”

He holds up his palm, bringing it to his heart.  “Please, call me Trevante.”

“Trevante.  I wanted to make sure you understood that my point is Nemour took something that wasn’t his.”

The pencil sharpener drowns out your voice a little, making Trevante lean closer to you.  

“It is just a pencil.”

You raise your voice a little more.  “But it was a special pencil.  He could’ve taken any other pencil but he took the one that is particular to one student.”

Trevante, smiles again.  You don’t understand why but it makes you calm down for a second.

“How long have you been teaching?”

“About two years now.”  You say.

Trevante chuckles, clapping his hands together.  “That explains it!”

“I’m sorry?”  You ask in confusion.

“Being so rule-minded. You this hung up over my son taking a public pencil!  The kid should’ve kept the pencil with them!”

“Rules ensure the world isn’t a crap crowd, first of all. Second, he isn’t getting into trouble over it!  I just want to reiterate that it’s not right to take what’s not yours.”

Trevante shakes his head in disbelief but isn’t tired of the conversation.  “We gettin a little loud Teach, so let’s use inside voices. These kids should learn responsibility for their belongings instead of catering to every possible need, ma’am.  It could take some stress off them shoulders for you.”

You subconsciously adjust the neck of your sweater, flustered over not getting your point across.  “Don’t police my volume, Mr. Rhodes, its the damn sharpener. Well then let me apologize for taking your time.”

“My bad. Like I said, I had no plans and this was the best time waster I have had in a while.  That is a nice sweater by the way.”

You freeze up at the compliment, rewinding that his eyes followed your movement from earlier.  “Thank you.  But next time I’ll just email you, how’s that.”

Trevante smiles genuinely.  “Oh but real life is much more fun, ain’t it? I see what you did there though.  Won’t be a next time, Teach.  I promise.  Right Nemour!”

Nemour stops sharpening.  “Huh Daddy?”

“Don’t take any pencils that ain’t Ticonderoga or #2, K?”

“Yes, sir.”  He says meekly before continuing his sharpening duty.”

Your phone goes off with a text.  “Oh, um.  Well I’ll call this a done meeting right?  Do you have any questions?”

Trevante stares up at the ceiling thoughtfully.  “You got plans this evening? A happy hour perhaps to de-stress?”

You clutch your phone.  “Kind of.  I have a date actually.”

“Ohh, so thats why you aint got a ring...and you wearing that sweater?”

“What is wrong with this sweater??  I thought you liked it!”

He shrugs, looking you over like a runway model coach.  “It’s good for the cute teacher look, but I don’t know about a hot date.”

“Well if I didn’t have this meeting I would have time to change.”

He wags a finger at you.  “Uh uh, don’t blame me.  This coulda been an email, remember?”

You start to stand.  “Yeah, yeah.  Nemour, that’s good enough, thanks!” 

Nemour blows the shavings off his last pencil, returning it to it’s cup and running up to his dad.

“I’ll see you Monday miss!”

“Sure will!  And Mr. Rhodes?”

“Trevante…”

“Trevante…I hope you have a good Valentine’s Day.”

Trevante holds his hand out again for a shake.  “You do the same.”  

Your hand lands in his, giving him a firm squeeze, recording the amount of pressure given back from his.

“And if there is a next time, feel free to call me.  Usually if people don’t get it the first time, I can convince them the second turn of it.  You want me to take this trash out for you?”

“Oh I couldn’t ask you to do that for me.”  You say humbly.

He swings the bag over his broad shoulder, giving you that 100 watt grin one more time.  “Good thing you didn’t ask.  See you later.”

You sit back at your desk, breathing deeply to calm yourself.  As much as parent conferences tested your nerves, his tested yours in a way you wanted to get right the next time.

Part 2

[thecorpulentbeagle]

Okujima Week 2019: AU of Choice

This story took me the longest to think up. AU stories are fun because they can literally go in any direction, but that’s also what makes them so difficult to write. I went back and forth for a while, but I eventually settled on having the two of them in the Pokémon universe, because I love Pokémon!

Technically, there are multiple universes within the Pokémon universe (ie Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire), but there isn’t really a set universe or time period this story is set in, though if you have played Gold or Silver (or Heart Gold or Soul Silver), you might recognize one part of this plot. It’s mostly so I can have my two favorite characters have Pokémon!

Plus, I hope you like the pun I used for the title of the story. It should become apparent as you read it.

Here is the fanfiction.net link.

Please enjoy this next part of the Okujima Week 2019 Challenge!

Okujima Week 2019 Challenge:

Ship:

AU of Choice

-Makoto-

There was a cool and crisp breeze that passed by as the S.S. Aqua began its departure from Vermillion City’s port. Wingulls cawed as the ship set sail, and the sun was high in the sky, indicating that it was around midday.

Makoto Niijima was currently standing on the deck, a few feet back from the railing. She looked out at the open expanse of sea stretched out in front of her, and took a deep breath. Being that she was stationed in the city of Goldenrod meant that there were rare opportunities for her to take in air that wasn’t somewhat polluted, so she truly appreciated these moments.

A bark to her right caused her to look to her side. As always, there stood her trusty Growlithe, Johanna, who seemed to be smiling up at her. She grinned back, bending down to pat her head lightly. “Good girl.”

The dog Pokémon nuzzled her head into her palm, desiring more attention from the young woman. Makoto couldn’t help but oblige. Since the two weren’t technically on duty at the moment, Makoto could afford to let her guard down slightly and shed her professional image. To all the world, the sight of the Trainer and Pokémon seemed more like traveling buddies, rather than a police officer and her highly-skilled companion.

After a few minutes, Johanna seemed to have her fill of attention, and she curled up next to Makoto’s feet, laying her head down on her paws. It seemed like the Pokémon was going to take a nap.

Makoto couldn’t blame her. The two had just ended a week-long manhunt the day before yesterday, and they were exhausted. The criminal had stolen a part from the Kanto Power Plant, and had travelled across said region attempting to escape capture.

It had seemed that the man had no plans other than to disrupt the daily life of those in the area, but he had been difficult to catch. Fortunately, Makoto’s sister Sae lived in Celadon City and had led the hunt for him. She’d called in forces from both Kanto and Johto for assistance, and, seeing as Sae was her sister, Makoto had requested to be sent to help her out.

When he was finally captured, he had given in rather easily and without a fight. It seemed that he was a remnant of Team Rocket, the team that had been disbanded a few years prior. They still cropped up from time to time, but ever since their leader had abandoned them, they could never quite recover the strength and influence they had once had.

Makoto and her Growlithe had stayed with Sae for a day to recuperate, but the two were now headed home. Sae had let her know that, because of the delay in services of the Magnet Train from Saffron City to Goldenrod City due to the power outage, there were huge lines and she would therefore not be able to return home that way for the next few days.

However, there was space on the S.S. Aqua, and Makoto preferred to travel this way anyway. Plus, she would have to take a day to travel from Olivine City back to her home, so she’d have a plausible excuse for a day off.

She turned her head towards the sunlight and closed her eyes, loving the feeling of warmth on her skin. It would take a couple hours to reach Olivine, and Makoto decided to relax as much as she could in the meantime.

She remained this way for a few minutes before registering something over the caws of the seagull Pokémon.

A very heavy and very weary sigh.

Makoto turned her head to the side to see a young woman to her left, currently leaning on the railing and looking as exhausted as Makoto felt. She also seemed somewhat troubled.

The officer looked down at Johanna. Though her eyes were closed, her ear was perked up in the direction of the other woman, and it seemed that she had heard her as well.

Makoto decided that she should go over and offer this woman support. Even though she was off duty, a police officer was still responsible to ensure the safety and happiness of citizens. Plus, she figured it could be a way to pass the time without accidently falling asleep and tumbling overboard.

She clicked her tongue at Johanna, who instantly jumped up and looked at her with an alert expression. Makoto nodded and tilted her head towards the woman, who still seemed to not have noticed the attention she had drawn. Johanna gave a short bark and trotted over, Makoto walking next to her.

Stopping a few feet away, Makoto spoke in a low and quiet tone to avoid scaring the woman. “Excuse me, miss?”

The woman turned her head sharply, which caused the soft brown curls of her hair to bounce slightly. She appeared to give Makoto a quick once-over before meeting her eyes and giving a polite smile. “Yes?”

Makoto gave a warm smile, wanting to make sure this woman was comfortable. She’d been told in the past that her demeanor was quite severe, and Makoto had therefore perfected this smile to put others at ease. It seemed to work.

“I couldn’t help but notice you seemed somewhat troubled. Is there anything I can help you with?”

Makoto wasn’t sure, but the other woman seemed embarrassed. Perhaps she hadn’t meant to broadcast her feelings quite so publicly. Makoto could understand that.

“That’s very kind of you, but I am fine, I assure you.” Her smile continued to remain polite, and it didn’t look like it was very sincere.

“Pardon me for prying, but it seems that you are the opposite of fine.” Makoto looked at the other woman’s body language. Her arms were still crossed on the railing, and her hands seemed to be clutched in fists. Perhaps she was a shy person and didn’t like talking to strangers, but the way her words were measured indicated that she was someone who was in a profession that required speaking to many people.

The woman smiled wryly. “It’s fine. I appreciate the concern.” She looked down and noticed the Growlithe next to Makoto. “Ah! What a cutie!” Her eyes lit up, and her smile now seemed genuine. She looked back up at Makoto. “May I pet your Growlithe?”

Makoto was glad that at least her partner was able to cheer this woman up. She nodded. “Of course. She’s very friendly.”

Makoto watched as the woman knelt down and lifted a gentle hand up to Growlithe’s nose. The Pokémon slowly sniffed, eventually giving her fingers a lick. She giggled as she pat her head, moving her hand around to scratch behind her ears. “She’s got a lovely temperament. Does she have a name?”

“Johanna,” Makoto replied, grinning as said Pokemon’s tail began to wag in apparent bliss.

“That’s a beautiful name.” The woman gave the Growlithe one last pat before she stood back up, now fully facing the two of them. “Ah, my apologies. I asked your Pokemon’s name before yours, and even before giving you my own.” She held out the hand she had just been using to pet Johanna. “My name is Haru.”

Makoto reached out and gripped Haru’s hand tightly. “Makoto. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Haru.”

“Likewise.” Haru shook her hand once before letting go. She seemed to be in a better mood than before.

“So, Haru. Perhaps you’d like to talk with me for a while?” She indicated the sea outstretched before them. “It’ll be a few hours before we arrive in Olivine.”

Makoto was pleased when Haru nodded, leaning back over the railing. The officer settled in place next to her, with Johanna leaping up on Makoto’s other side. “Watch your balance,” she warned. Johanna simply barked and gave her face a quick lick, which caused her owner to laugh.

Makoto looked over at Haru to see her watching the two of them with mirth. Whatever previous grievances she had been dealing with seemed to have floated away with the tide. When the other woman noticed Makoto staring at her, she blushed slightly and gave a slight cough.

“S-so. What brings you on the S.S. Aqua, Makoto?” Haru inquired.

“I’ve just come back from an operation in Celadon City. I’m returning to Goldenrod now, since that’s where I’m normally stationed.” Though the details of the mission were not exactly classified, Makoto didn’t want to give them out to a woman she had just met.

“I see!” Haru’s eyes widened. Looking at Johanna, she exclaimed, “I should have known that I was talking to a police officer when I saw your Growlithe.” She gave Makoto another once-over. “I’m surprised you’re not in uniform.”

Makoto grinned. “Yes, well, now that I’ve finished what I needed to, I’m on a bit of a vacation of sorts.” A bark caused her to add, “We’re on a vacation.”

“Ah.” Haru nodded her understanding.

“How about you? Are you travelling for business or pleasure?” Now that Makoto was getting into the groove of this conversation, she had to admit she was genuinely curious as to who this woman was and what she was doing.

“Business.” Haru folded her hands together. “I’m actually returning from a meeting in Saffron City.”

“Understood.” Makoto cocked her head at the strange expression Haru was giving her. “Is something the matter?”

“No. Not particularly. Your response just seemed… a little robotic.” She flushed. “I’m sorry, that was a bit rude of me to say…”

Makoto chuckled. It seemed her training was showing through even though she was in “civilian” mode. “No worries. I sometimes can’t help myself.” Seeing that Haru had retreated slightly, she continued in a calmer tone, “What was the meeting about, if you don’t mind my asking?”

Haru gave Makoto a hard look. It seemed like she was thinking deeply about… something.

Sensing her unease, Makoto added, “You certainly don’t have to go into any detail if you don’t want to.”

“No. I… just don’t want to broadcast who I am to the world. But you seem trustworthy, Makoto.” She smiled. “My full name is Haru Okumura.”

Makoto’s eyes widened just as Haru’s had – that name was definitely important. “Okumura? Are you possibly related to Kunikazu Okumura?”

Haru’s expression seemed to sag slightly. “Yes. I’m his daughter.”

Makoto got the feeling that she had been asked about her father many times in her life, which explained her initial reluctance. Internally, she cursed herself for following the same trend. Before she could correct her mistake, Haru continued.

“As you probably know, my father is the VP of Sales at Silph Co. I was attending a meeting at their headquarters in regards to a new product we’ve been testing.” She smiled ruefully. “I work at a branch office in Goldenrod, but this was extremely important, so I had to make the journey all the way to headquarters.”

Makoto tilted her head. “You had to make the journey?”

Haru nodded. “I’m… not on the best terms with my father.” She looked out at the sea. “I love him of course, but he can be rather difficult to get along with. We… disagree on how to run our respective departments. So I’m usually just… tired after meeting with him.”

“I see.” Makoto couldn’t exactly relate. Her father was a police officer, just like herself and her sister, and they were on very good terms. He had stopped by and visited just the other day when Makoto had been relaxing at her sister’s place.

“But it’s nothing, really. The meeting was a success, and we should be able to distribute our new product in the market within the next few months.” Haru turned and looked at Makoto, a small smile on her face.

“May I ask what this mystery product is?” Makoto was genuinely curious.

“You certainly can, but I can’t tell you.” Haru gave a sly grin and winked at her.

Makoto scoffed. Even though she really had no right to the information, Haru’s rebuttal surprised her slightly since she had been so forthcoming. “No?”

Haru’s eyes sparkled. Moving her hand from where it had rested on the railing, she placed it onto one of Makoto’s own. “No offense, Makoto, but I don’t know you well enough to divulge such important information.”

Makoto flushed slightly. Haru seemed to be the touchy-feely type, which Makoto was not accustomed to. But she had to admit, Haru’s warm hand on her own felt… nice. “Well then, perhaps we should get to know each other better.” She surprised herself with how bold she was being.

Haru smiled, almost like Makoto had guessed correctly in a game, or had followed a script that she had devised for the officer. “I’d like that.”

The two looked into each other’s eyes, and Makoto couldn’t help but think how… gentle and kind the other woman’s were. She had initially come over to help Haru feel better, but now Makoto felt a bit more invested.

Haru broke the eye contact and looked over at Johanna, who had witnessed the entire exchange. “How about it, Johanna? Would you mind if I got to know your Trainer better?”

The Growlithe barked, wriggling around as much as was possible on a precarious railing.

“I can introduce you to my Pokémon as well. My Mona-chan would be thrilled to meet you both!”

“And what type of Pokémon is this Mona-chan?” Makoto couldn’t help but think how cute that name was. Almost as cute as the Pokémon’s owner.

“He’s a Meowth, but he gets a little seasick, which is why I don’t have him out now.” Haru used her free hand to fiddle with the Pokéball attached on her belt. “He’s a cat Pokémon, but he’s a huge sweetie and will play with anyone.”

“I look forward to meeting him.” Makoto turned her hand slightly so that she could give Haru’s a squeeze. “And I look forward to getting to know you better.” She smiled.

Haru blushed. “As do I.” She met Makoto’s eyes. “And forgive me if I’m being a bit too forward, but I’d very much like to see you in uniform sometime.”

Makoto coughed, a blush rising up onto her own face. “I-I see. Well then, I’d be happy to oblige.” She gave a mock salute. “Makoto Niijima, at your service.”

“Niijima?” Makoto felt Haru squeeze her hand.

“Yes?” Makoto wasn’t quite sure why her surname had affected the other woman so much.

“The Niijima name is well-known in my family.” She giggled. “This seems a bit too coincidental, but my father had considered hiring one of them to be his personal bodyguard. I believe he’s the police chief in Saffron City.”

Makoto chuckled. “That’s my father.”

“Interesting.” Haru rubbed Makoto’s hand with her thumb. “So then I suppose I should ask you if you’d like to be my bodyguard.” She laughed.

“I appreciate the offer, but I will have to decline.” Makoto smiled. “I’d like to get to know you on a more personal level.”

Haru smiled at Makoto warmly. “Then I suppose my trip was both business and pleasure.”

Makoto laughed nervously. “You really are very forward, Haru.”

“Then allow me to make one more advance.” Haru leaned forward and gave Makoto a quick peck on the cheek. It was fleeting, but for Makoto, it was everything. Her heart picked up in pace, and she felt a bit lightheaded.

“Y-you know, since we’re both travelling to Goldenrod, it would be my honor to escort you back.” Makoto rubbed the spot on her face where Haru had kissed her.

Haru giggled. “Sounds like a plan.”

Growlithe gave a happy bark of approval, which caused the two women to laugh, a sea breeze ruffling their hair.

Done! Since this was an AU, I also made it so that both of their fathers were alive because they deserve to be happy, damnit!

Hopefully, you don’t need to have an extensive knowledge of Pokémon to be able to understand most of this – the cuteness should shine through regardless!

Also, since they were on a ship, and Okujima is a ship name, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to make the pun! But speaking of Okujima, when I wrote the part where Haru reveals her full name, I literally wrote “Haru Okujima”. I went on typing for a few minutes before it hit me, and I went back and corrected it. I feel like their ship name could be an actual Japanese surname!

Bonus – I also just caught a Shiny Wailmer in Pokémon Go, so this story apparently gave me good luck!

See you tomorrow!

[meshugana1]

Could you make a story about 3 college girls hypnotizing each other into bimbo puppy girls?

Sorry, but I tweaked this one just a little bit. Hope it’s still ok.

   The girl’s nerves were made apparent by the shifting of her feet and the tension she held in her exposed shoulders. She waited on the decorated slab of concrete that marked the entryway to the sorority house. Her name was Mary, and she found her should entering her sorority sisters home on little more than a silly dare. Still, she knew the need for caution was now. She was no mystic by any estimation but she knew you didn’t play with forces you didn’t understand. But caution in the face of the unknown was not something Amy was in favor of, and Tracy just did pretty much whatever Amy said in the first place. How were they to know if she had been hypnotized at all? Which is, of course, why she was now going to be filling in as the hypnotist.

   It really was a stupid, childish idea. And like most of them, it began by trying to emulate a youtube video. It was Amy who found it, she was usually the mover and the shaker for the crazy bets they partook in. It was just a simple video from some stage hypnosis show, but it was Tracy in a rare show of original thought that said: “That’s so totally fake.” That was all it took for Amy to latch onto the idea of experimenting with hypno videos and audio files. There was over a thousand dollars on the line at this point, all the pair of them had to do was resist any command given after the “trigger word” each of them was going to be given by Tracy was said.

   That was over two months ago and since then every single night Amy and Mary had to listen to a general hypnosis induction file that Amy told Tracy to find. Mary had an inkling that the file she was given was on the expensive side, no doubt Amy taking advantage of Tracy again. If she wins she had every intention of sharing some of the cash with her, Amy certainly wouldn’t. It wasn’t as though Amy was a bad person, however, far from it. She just had a nasty habit of getting tunnel vision when making wagers.

   The doors opened and the rush of warm air from inside tickled her skin. Tracy stood in front of her wearing an adult onesie. It always brought a smile to her cheeks to see Tracy like this. She just came off so innocent and huggable, always just waiting for a moment to make someone happy. A fact Amy took advantage off a bit too often. It was a real shame that she wore that, otherwise she looked amazing. Her short red hair framed such a cute face and her body was that of a svelte athlete. It was a mystery where she found the time to exercise, but she had the burgeoning abs to prove it. “Hey Mary, are ya ready to get hypno’d? I’m so gonna make you guys cluck like turkeys and stuff!” Tracy said. “Not if I can help it Trace,” said Amy from her perch atop the stairs.

   She already had on perfectly applied makeup, as usual. She was one of those “image is everything” type of women. Her mother was a politician so it’s easy to see where that came from. As she descended the stairs her attitude became more apparent. She wore a dress far too fancy for such an occasion. It was a floor length navy blue that cut a deep swath of cleavage. Her ears were studded with diamonds and she wore a pearl necklace she had told everyone was a family heirloom. This was her war garb, her declaration that the contest was over before it started.  “So, ready to give me a thousand bucks?” Amy said.“Not hardly, you ready to cluck like a chicken for Tracey?”“Not hardly. Well, why don’t we get this show on the road? I have a party to get to after this. Are you ready Trace?” Tracy nodded excitedly as she led the pair into the house.

   Tracy lead them to her bedroom. It was towards the back of the house so they were less likely to be disturbed while they sorted this out. “Ok guys, so first things first I need to do one in person session with you two and try to put you both under. And if I can do that then I’m going to try to implant some trigger words and once you guys wake up we can see if they worked. Whoever they don’t work on wins the bet, ok?” Amy and Mary both nodded in agreement. “Yay! This is gonna be so fun you guys, trust me. Now I’m just going to put on some mood music and then we can start. I even got a pocket watch to use, isn’t that cool?” She declared with unbridled excitement.

   “Ok, Amy you stand here and Mary you stand on her left. Alright, so last chance to back out?” Amy rolled her eyes, “Just get on with it Trace. Like I said I have plans later,” she said with an exasperated yawn. Tracy withdrew the pocket watch from her dresser drawer. It was simple for a pocket watch. A polished steel exterior that didn’t have any sort of engraving except for the manufacturer logo. She held it outstretched and subtly swayed it back and forth before the two young women. “Look at the watch. Watch it sway back and forth and back and forth. Each time it swings back you find it more difficult to turn away. Each time it swings back you find yourself going deeper, and deeper, and deeper. You’re beginning to feel lighter. Back and forth, back and forth.” Tracey was right. Both Mary and Amy found it so difficult to focus on anything but the watch. Its motion was so smooth and enticing, just back and forth, back and forth.

   “Back and forth, back and forth. With every motion, you feel yourself falling deeper into the trance. I’m going to start counting and when I reach zero you will be completely under my trance. Ten, watch the motions back and forth. Nine, you feel yourself being drawn down deeper and deeper. Eight, you are so relaxed. Each swing of the watch drives away any stress or confusion. Seven, it’s so hard to focus now, you’re becoming so relaxed. Six, you’re so close now, so close to perfect relaxation. Five, back and forth, deeper and deeper. Four, so nearly there. Each swing brings you closer and closer. Three, you’re bodies are so relaxed now. Two, back and forth and deeper and deeper. One, almost totally relaxed now. Zero…”

   Mary was more peaceful than she had been in years. If nothing else these files and this session at least gave her some really great sleep. She was a little miffed when she vaguely heard Tracy say “Wake”. She and Amy were bounced back to reality very abruptly. Tracey still stood before them with a wide smile on her face. The watch she held stood still on its silver chain. Amy waited for nothing and asked: “Well, who won Trace?” Tracey just smiled at them, but it wasn’t her usual chipper smile. This one filled Mary and Amy with a small feeling of dread. “Well, Amy. I’m pretty sure that I just won.”

   Amy and Mary both looked at each other with faces screwed up in confusion. “Um, the hell are you talking about Trace? You weren’t a part of this remember?” Instead of responding to the question she placed her watch back in the draw it came from and turned back to the pair and said: “Sit.” Amy and Mary both responded instantly and squatted down on their haunches. Mary wore a functional pair of leggings and had no problems following the order. Amy’s dress, however, was not intended for such a sudden motion and the tearing of fabric was unmistakable. Neither of the girls saw fit to question the order they were just given though. “Damn it Trace!” Amy said, “This dress was expensive! You are so going to—” Before she could finish Tracey said, in an uncharacteristically commanding voice, “Heel.” Amy instantly shut her mouth and cowed to Tracey’s command. Mary wasn’t speaking but she knew she couldn’t until Tracy said it was ok. “Now that I have your attention, Amy, why don’t you go ahead and get Mary naked. And Mary, you do the same for Amy. But no using your hands, just your teeth. And why don’t you guys just stay on all fours from now on?”

   It was a pretty great idea and Amy and Mary leapt at the opportunity. Amy took the initiative and bite at Mary’s light grey t-shirt and pulled it off her, revealing Mary’s ample chest contained in a pink lace bra. Amy’s dress was a more complicated matter. Mary had to begin at the bottom and pull it over her hips and torso. Amy must’ve been planning on having a good party, she didn’t bother putting any panties on. “Oh Amy, I always knew you were a naughty girl. If only you had picked that up about me, you might have avoided this,” Tracy said as she unzipped her onesie, revealing beneath an ensemble of black leather and exposed skin in all the wrong places.

   “Good little pups,” Tracey said as she stared at her two subs, fully under her control, as they sat on all fours. Their pert asses were in the air and they wagged them side to side. If they hadn’t agreed to listen to those “primer” files she supplied they might have been able to resist this session. Now, Mary, you can go over to the bed and start humping the mattress, really give it your all. And Amy, you can come over here and start lapping at your masters pussy, like a good puppy.” Amy actually yipped in excitement. Still wagging her bottom, she crawled over and sat on her knees. She grabbed Tracey’s ass for support and lapped and licked and teased her masters pussy. Mary was so jealous, but master told her to give the mattress her all and she was not going to disobey. Mary whimpered and moaned as she rubbed her needy crotch into the corner of her master’s mattress. It felt so good to follow her commands, she was sure to get rewarded. Then she would be top dog servicing master.

The End. Hope Y’all liked it!

[theonyxpath]

…And he says he has a mission for you and your valiant pioneer friends. In less than two wags of their tails, you are all ready to follow the cryptic map the stranger has given you, and off for adventure!

That could be how a session of Fetch Quest starts. Story-wise.

Part of the fun, and part of what we’ll be exploring, with Fetch Quest is how the card game connects with the TTRPG. You can play it as a straight-up card game, you can add in your own characters as the pioneers going on the quests, you can role-play the challenges as well as solve them mechanically with the card game rules, and we’re looking at how a card set of missions could be transformed into a TTRPG adventure.

What I’m saying is, if the Kickstarter goes well, we have some ideas to explore.

In any case, the Kickstarter starts at 2pm Eastern US time Tuesday the 22nd – which is tomorrow as I write this. Here’s one of the videos we created to give more details about Fetch Quest:

As always, I have no idea if this one will do well, or even fund. You’d think after thirty of them I’d get blase, but I’m not. It’s still exciting and I always can’t tell if what we’re doing will be interesting enough and exciting enough to get folks pledging. We’ve all worked to make this one fun to follow, and Jaunty James Bell has proven to be an engaging “Kickstarter Concierge” as he titles himself, so it should be pretty cool. See ya there, good dogs!

    Changeling: The Lost 2nd Edition illustration by Michael Gaydos

    Meanwhile, we posted a short Onyx Pathcast last Friday announcing that the team feel so confident and excited about the response to the first three episodes that they will now be doing it weekly! So make sure to subscribe to PodBean or whatever podcast service you use, and get ready for your weekly dose of insider info about Onyx Path and our projects, game design, gaming in general, professional wrestling, and general good-natured repartee.

And here is the link and their third visual treatment by our old friend and first edition Trinity developer Charlie Bates:

https://onyxpathcast.podbean.com/e/special-episode-one-youre-doing-great-kid/

We had a lot of fun doing this shorter special edition Onyx Pathcast, and yes, I said we as I joined Dixie and Matthew and basically pretended to weasel them into going weekly. Now, what you hear there is not what happened in real life as they all came to me with the weekly idea, but we thought we’d go broad and I’d be sort of a cross between an evil Stan Lee and P.T. Barnum. Hope it’s as much fun to listen to as it was to perform!

This week’s episode will be their interview with Impish Ian Watson, and these are some of the things they cover:

Ian talks about his history with the Trinity Continuum pitch, through the CCP merger, and into the creation of Onyx Path – Ian’s love for the Trinity line goes back to 1997.

We talk about rabbit holes and why we love what we love.

The dynamics of the Trinity Continuum design team, and how awesome Danielle Lauzon is.

How the Storypath System came to be and how we reframe Storypath between TrinityStorypath and They Came From.

Reexamining how we do the development process, and how we are trying new things for Aberrant.

Ian talks about his Community Manager role.

What’s exciting about this new version of Trinity – Aegis! Anima! (Maybe) – Trinity as a pop culture toolbox.

We answer some forum questions (did yours get answered? Listen to find out!)

We talk about fonts! Fonts are cool!

Aberrant‘s diversity.

Ian’s contributions to Vampire: Bloodlines.

So, just chock full of great conversation, and going live on Friday.

    Scion Origin art by Gregor Pedrycz

  And here are some quick notes that came out of our Monday Meeting today:

Our sales partner Indie Press Revolution (IPR) is starting their month-long sale of Chronicles of Darkness Prestige Kickstarter Editions today! http://www.indiepressrevolution.com/xcart/Onyx-Path-Publishing/

  We often talk about our forums, comments sections, and Facebook and Twitter presence, and here are two more places you can connect with other Onyx Path fans: our Reddit areas: non-WW games: https://reddit.com/r/OnyxPathRPG/ and WW games: https://reddit.com/r/WhiteWolfRPG and here’s a link to our new Facebook community page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/419273928504341/

  Just to let folks know, since the various Kickstarter communities may not actually overlap all that much, we have shipped the Deluxe Changeling: The Dreaming last month, are looking good to start shipping the Prince’s Gambit casual Vampire: The Masquerade card game this month, and should be shipping Deluxe V20 Beckett’s Jyhad Diary next month. Phew!

  And along those lines, we’re going to be sending the Backer PDFs out for Cavaliers of Mars this week! Here’s the gorgeous cover:

  So, wrapping this up, I also took to heart your comments about pruning the Blurbs! section of this blog, and while I still want to consolidate the Amazon epub section, I think you’ll already find it a lot less bloated. We are also looking into the suggestion that we set up tabs featuring our various sales partners as a fixed place to locate them, and I’ll be able to only “blurb” new stuff.

Thanks for all your help. With all that we are doing, it can sometimes be an important task to find the best way to communicate all the great things that are happening with our…

Many Worlds, One Path!

    BLURBS!

KICKSTARTER:

Fetch Quest, the adventure card game set in the Realms of Pugmire is going live tomorrow Tuesday, May 22 at 2pm Eastern US time! That’s 2pm, not noon like most of our other Kickstarters!

      ELECTRONIC GAMING:

As we find ways to enable our community to more easily play our games, the Onyx Dice Rolling App is now live! Our dev team has been doing updates since we launched based on the excellent use-case comments by our community, and this thing is both rolling and rocking!

Here are the links for the Apple and Android versions:

http://theappstore.site/app/1296692067/onyx-dice

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.onyxpathpublishing.onyxdice&hl=en

Three different screenshots, above.

    ON AMAZON AND BARNES & NOBLE:

You can now read our fiction from the comfort and convenience of your Kindle (from Amazon) and Nook (from Barnes & Noble).

Our latest offering is the Mage 20 Cookbook, now in a convenient Kindle ebook version! https://www.amazon.com/Mage-Cookbook-World-Darkness-Enlightened-ebook/dp/B07C71BRDC/

Nook version is coming soon!

If you enjoy these or any other of our books, please help us by writing reviews on the site of the sales venue you bought it from. Reviews really, really help us with getting folks interested in our amazing fiction!

Our selection includes these fiction books:

Vampire: The Masquerade: The Endless Ages Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Werewolf: The Apocalypse: Rites of Renown: When Will You Rage II (Kindle, Nook)

Mage: The Ascension: Truth Beyond Paradox (Kindle, Nook)

Chronicles of Darkness: The God-Machine Chronicle Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Mummy: The Curse: Curse of the Blue Nile (Kindle, Nook)

Beast: The Primordial: The Primordial Feast Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Vampire: The Masquerade: Of Predators and Prey: The Hunters Hunted II Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Werewolf: The Apocalypse: The Poison Tree (Kindle, Nook)

Werewolf: The Apocalypse: Songs of the Sun and Moon: Tales of the Changing Breeds (Kindle, Nook)

Vampire: The Requiem: The Strix Chronicle Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Werewolf: The Forsaken: The Idigam Chronicle Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Mage: The Awakening: The Fallen World Chronicle Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Vampire: The Masquerade: The Beast Within Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Werewolf: The Apocalypse: W20 Cookbook (Kindle, Nook)

Exalted: Tales from the Age of Sorrows (Kindle, Nook)

Chronicles of Darkness: Tales of the Dark Eras (Kindle, Nook)

Promethean: The Created: The Firestorm Chronicle Anthology (Kindle, Nook)

Demon: The Descent: Demon: Interface (Kindle, Nook)

Scarred Lands: Death in the Walled Warren (Kindle, Nook)

V20 Dark Ages: Cainite Conspiracies (Kindle, Nook)

Chronicles of Darkness: Strangeness in the Proportion (Kindle, Nook)

Vampire: The Requiem: Silent Knife (Kindle, Nook)

Mummy: The Curse: Dawn of Heresies (Kindle, Nook)

And here are the Champions of the Scarred Lands fiction anthology and the Huntsmen Chronicles anthology for Changeling: The Lost 2nd Edition!

    OUR SALES PARTNERS:

We’re working with Studio2 to get Pugmire out into stores, as well as to individuals through their online store. You can pick up the traditionally printed main book, the Screen, and the official Pugmire dice through our friends there!

https://studio2publishing.com/search?q=pugmire

    Looking for our Deluxe or Prestige Edition books? Try this link! http://www.indiepressrevolution.com/xcart/Onyx-Path-Publishing/

Here’s the link to the press release we put out about how Onyx Path is now selling through Indie Press Revolution: http://theonyxpath.com/press-release-onyx-path-limited-editions-now-available-through-indie-press-revolution/

And you can now order Pugmire: the book, the screen, and the dice! http://www.indiepressrevolution.com/xcart/manufacturers.php?manufacturerid=296

      DRIVETHRURPG.COM:

  For the first time since it was originally published, we now have the Champions of the Scarred Lands fiction anthology as a physical book, available as a PoD on DTRPG and going live this Wednesday!

      Pan’s Guide to New Pioneers has found its way through the wilderness to arrive in PDF and physical book PoD versions on DTRPG! http://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/239620/Pans-Guide-for-New-Pioneers

Pan’s Guide for New Pioneers

When a devastating flood hits Pugmire, all manner of bad dogs, opportunistic rats, and manipulative cats take advantage of the kingdom. Good dogs try to turn the tide, but searching the dangerous wilderness for a way to heal the land is no easy task. If only there existed brave dogs to lay down the way for other intrepid pioneers…

It is time for a new group of heroes to set out on a chaotic and risky adventure! Armed with a guide prepared by the daring dog Pan Dachshund, fabulous treasure and great recognition await them. All these pioneers need do is explore the wilds, discover the key to Pugmire’s salvation, and return in one piece!

Pan’s Guide for New Pioneers includes:

A full Pugmire adventure, aimed at people brand new to roleplaying games and experienced players alike!

Rules laid out and explained for every encounter and challenge in the adventure.

Snippets of Pan’s journal presented for enjoyable reading or integration into the game.

Ready-made characters so a game of Pugmire can commence as soon as you open this book.

Hyperlinks to video footage for those who prefer to follow along in different mediums.

        CONVENTIONS!

Matthew Dawkins, Steffie de Vaan, and Mighty Matt McElroy will be at the UK Games Expo next week running games and talking shop with fans and retailers.

Prep is also underway for Gen Con 2018 in August, which takes place in Indianapolis, IN. In addition to our booth presence, be sure to check out the games and panels in the Gen Con Event Schedule.

From Fast Eddy Webb, we have these:

Eddy will be speaking at Broadleaf Writers Conference (September 22-23) in Decatur, GA. He’ll be there to talk about writing for interactive fiction, and hanging out with other writers who have far more illustrious careers. http://broadleafwriters.com/3rd-annual-broadleaf-writers-conference/3rd-annual-broadleaf-writers-conference-speakers/

Eddy will also be a featured guest at Save Against Fear (October 12-14) in Harrisburg, PA. He’ll be running some Pugmire games, be available for autographs, and will sometimes accept free drinks. http://www.thebodhanagroup.org/about-the-convention

If you are going and want to meet up, let us know!

    And now, the new project status updates!

DEVELOPMENT STATUS FROM FAST EDDY WEBB (projects in bold have changed status since last week):

First Draft (The first phase of a project that is about the work being done by writers, not dev prep)

M20 Book of the Fallen (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

C20 Novel (Jackie Cassada) (Changeling: the Dreaming 20th Anniversary Edition)

M20 The Technocracy Reloaded (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

M20 Victorian Mage (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

CofD Dark Eras 2 (Chronicles of Darkness)

C20 Players’ Guide (Changeling: the Dreaming 20th Anniversary Edition)

Wr20 Book of Oblivion (Wraith: The Oblivion 20th Anniversary Edition)

Aeon Aexpansion (Trinity Continuum: Aeon)

In Media Res (Trinity Continuum: Core)

Trinity Continuum: Aberrant core (Trinity Continuum: Aberrant)

Lunars: Fangs at the Gate (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Tales of Excellent Cats (Monarchies of Mau)

Dog and Cat Ready Made Characters (Monarchies of Mau)

Adventures for Curious Cats (Monarchies of Mau)

  Redlines

Deviant: The Renegades (Deviant: The Renegades)

Spilled Blood (Vampire: The Requiem 2nd Edition)

Night Horrors: Shunned by the Moon (Werewolf: The Forsaken 2nd Edition)

  Second Draft

WoD Ghost Hunters (World of Darkness)

Tales of Good Dogs – Pugmire Fiction Anthology (Pugmire)

CofD Contagion Chronicle (Chronicles of Darkness)

Dystopia Rising: Evolution (Dystopia Rising: Evolution)

  Development

Signs of Sorcery (Mage: the Awakening Second Edition)

Hunter: the Vigil 2e core (Hunter: the Vigil 2nd Edition)

Fetch Quest (Pugmire)

They Came From Beneath the Sea! Rulebook (TCFBtS!)

Guide to the Night (Vampire: The Requiem 2nd Edition)

  WW Manuscript Approval:

  Editing:

M20 Gods and Monsters (Mage: the Ascension 20th Anniversary Edition)

Night Horrors: The Tormented (Promethean: The Created 2nd Edition)

  Post-Editing Development:

Scion: Hero (Scion 2nd Edition)

Trinity Continuum Core Rulebook (The Trinity Continuum)

Trinity Continuum: Aeon Rulebook (The Trinity Continuum)

Ex Novel 2 (Aaron Rosenberg) (Exalted 3rd Edition)

Exalted 3rd Novel by Matt Forbeck (Exalted 3rd Edition)

GtS Geist 2e core (Geist: the Sin-Eaters Second Edition)

  Indexing:

    ART DIRECTION FROM MIRTHFUL MIKE:

In Art Direction

Ex3 Monthly Stuff

Scion Hero – Last art notes and contracts being sent.

Trinity Continuum – Yep… workin on it.

Geist 2e

The Realm

M20 Gods and Monsters

Ex3 Dragon Blooded – Wave 2 art in progress

Monarchies of Mau– Artwork in progress.

  Marketing Stuff

  In Layout

Wraith 20 Screen – I’ll pull this together while doing errata. I got the list from Dansky of what tables to pull… just want to make sure they are right.

Fetch Quest – KS stuff all done for tomorrow.

EX3 Dragon Blooded – firming up layout and backgrounds while waiting for new art.

  Proofing

Scion Origin – PDF almost ready for in-Onyx review.

Boggans – Waiting for WW approval.

Monarchies of Mau – Filling in XXs and prepping alpha PDF.

Changeling: the Lost 2

Wr20 Guide for Newly Departed – Art in Progress… book pretty much layed out.

  At Press

Beckett Screen – At shipper.

Scarred Land PGs & Wise and the Wicked PF & 5e – Shipping from fulfillment shipper. PDF and PoD physical book versions on sale at DTRPG.

Prince’s Gambit – At fulfillment shipper, prepping for KS ship-out.

V20 Beckett’s Jyhad Diary– Set to arrive at fulfillment shipper this week.

Scion Dice – At fulfillment shipper.

Wraith 20 – Errata being input.

SL Champions of the Scarred Lands Anthology PoD – PoD on sale this week at DTRPG.

Cavaliers of Mars – Backer PDF out to backers this week.

  TODAY’S REASON TO CELEBRATE: Tomorrow is Mighty Matt McElroy’s birthday! We could not have built up Onyx Path all these years without Matt, so please celebrate with us that dark and stormy night he was born!

[haikyuu-imagines-and-others]

CAN YOU CONTINUE THE BOKUTO MAFIA ANGSTY SCENARIO PLS

UgggghhhhI am SO late to the party here guys haha… I meant to post this earlier, but Iwas late to work this morning, so I had to stay later than usual, and then Ihave my list of my requests apart from Admin Keiji’s and I could not for thelive of me figure out which one I wanted to do ;; sooooo if you asked for thiscontinuation, congrats!! You won the coin flip! Thanks for requesting andsupporting this continued scenario! – Admin Satori

Part 1 Part 2

BokutoKoutarou:

Darkness had been all you knew for the past 3days. At least… you thought it was 3 days… You couldn’t be sure anymore sinceyou hadn’t seen or felt the sun on your skin in a considerable amount of time.

They’d beaten you. You knew you had bruisesall along your arms and legs, maybe a few scrapes on your knees and face fromtheir rough handling. Thankfully… they hadn’t hurt you more than just pullingand pushing you to go where they wanted you to go. And when you wouldn’t go ormove, they’d just drag or carry you.

You remembered the day at the warehouse,remembered they had abducted someone else, and had stuffed you in the van withthem, their face covered with a burlap sack. They hadn’t said a word to you,but you figured the kidnappers had silenced them with tape over the mouth oreven threatened their life. But the two of you were alone now. The guards wereposted outside the closed door; your hands were cuffed together but you wererelatively free to move about the small empty space. Your company was knockedout, having met the blunt end of one of the kidnappers guns when he’d tried tograb one of the guards weapons. You quickly scooted forward towards the figure,finding no fear in your stomach as you pulled off the gangly mans; burlap sack.You froze at who you saw.

“T-Tetsurou? What are you doing here? Oh my God!Are you okay?” Your voice was an urgent whisper as your hands cradled his headon your lap, wiping away the blood from his wound just above his eye. Hesqueezed his eyes shut and grimaced at your fingers prodding the sensitiveskin.

“I’m fine, ____. Stop panicking. Bo’s hit memuch harder than that before.” Kuroo chuckled dryly before opening his goldeneyes, giving you a weak smile when your eyes met his own. “Ohoho? Don’t hold metoo close, ____; Bo might end up assassinating me if he ever found out aboutour love affair.” He smirked, winking up at you playfully.

You scoffed and pushed off his head from yourlap, rolling your eyes, but not being able to stop the tears brewing at themention of your fiancé. The way Kuroo talked about him… Your heart squeezedwith hope. “S-So… he’s okay? K-Kou?” Your voice was shaky, the dam broke looseas Kuroo nodded, he couldn’t bring himself to make fun of your worry. He’d beenthe same way in the hospital. You reached up with your cuffed hands and coveredyour face, feeling absolute relief washing over your entire body, your soul wassoaring high at the fact that the world wasn’t losing such an amazing humanbeing just yet. “W-When I saw him… H-He was bleeding… Bleeding a lot… I triedto.. to help him. Tried to get someone to help him and get him to the hospital,but…” You trailed off feeling your heart squeezing still, the relief so intensethat you couldn’t stop the quiet sobs wracking at your body. The memory ofseeing Bokuto lying in the street, the look of shock overriding any worry he’dhad for you moments before, how his blood had seeped through your fingers whenyou’d tried to put pressure on his wound. You hiccupped after the relief hadsettled in your heart and stomach, and you used your cuffed hands to wipe yourtears away, not realizing you only smeared the grime on your face. Notrealizing Bokuto’s blood was still encrusted in your fingertips and under yournails.

Kuroo smiled softly, but his eyes showed heknew exactly what fear you’d gone through, the panic of seeing a ray ofsunlight possibly being taken out of this world forever. “He’s fine, ____… He’sa little sore around his shoulder and chest, but last I saw he was doing okay.Maybe pushing it a little because he’s trying to get you…. Us…. Back, but youknow him,” Kuroo couldn’t help but laugh wistfully, “Always keeping himself athis limits.”

“How did you get here?” You asked, focused nowon trying to get out of your situation. Now you had someone to help you, youhad an ally in escaping these terrible people.

“Well, I got caught… Duh?” Kuroo’s golden eyesmet yours seriously, but the quirk in his lips made you huff in frustration. “Iwas helping Bo get you… I got caught sneaking into the warehouse you were in…They dragged me with you to wherever we are now.” He explained easily, “I’malmost completely sure that Bokuto is on the way now – they probably trailedthe car we were traveling in.”

Footsteps outside the small room caught theboth of your attention, your eyes going to the door as it slammed open. The manstormed into the small room, glaring at you and Kuroo, almost as if he didn’tappreciate the two of you conversing without his knowledge. Neither of youspoke, just staring at each other for a long time before finally the man lookedat the open door, motioning for his goonies to come in. Two men, completelycovered in black clothing, the only skin showing was their eyelids when theyblinked and the small space between their eyes. You didn’t focus too much ontheir appearance for long before your eyes were drawn to the heavy metal theywere donning. Large guns. You couldn’t remember the names of them, but you didknow they were assault rifles. Powerful, dangerous assault rifles. One of thegoonies walked over to you, leveling the gun to your head.

“Leave her alone… Hey, oh…” Kuroo had reachedforward with his own cuffed hands, but had stopped when he felt the cool barrelof the other goonies assault rifle being pressed against his temple.

Your heart squeezed again, and you wanted toreach forward and place yourself in front of the danger to keep Kuroo safe. You’dalready seen too much blood for the rest of your life. Kuroo didn’t need to seethe same bright light that your fiancé had. Not another light, please. But youdidn’t move forward, you held your hands up in a reaching motion, “Wait!Please.. I’ll do anything you want, give you anything you want. Just don’t hurthim… Let him go… Please, and I’ll… give you all the money I have, all the the….The….” You gulped, feeling like you were going to throw up, “All the sex youcould ever want… Just leave him alone.” You pleaded, your eyes on the first manwho’d walked in.

He laughed, shaking his head in disbelief, “Howdisgusting. I could do much better than you, so while your offers areentertaining… It’s definitely not what I’m looking for.” He smirked, an evilcurling of his lips that definitely made you want to throw up even more. “Itseems the ransom we sent to your husband has only been met with aggression… Nota fun experience. Definitely not within our rules of the game.” He wagged hisfinger as if he were berating a child, “No no… BUT luckily for him, I AM aplayer of the game, a follower of the rules, and because of this I will giveyou the option of carrying out the consequences that were detailed in ourcontract with your husband.” He nodded his head at the goonie closest to you.

The threatening man reached behind him,lowering his weapon from your head for just a moment, enough to let you breathea little bit freely before he tossed down the thing he’d pulled from thewaistband of his pants. The clattering scared you, made you jump and flinchaway from the noise, the object. You inhaled sharply when you felt the rifle’sbarrel against your head again, the cool metal sending chills down your spine.Your eyes had closed in anticipation, but once everything had calmed to thetensed situation before your goonie had moved, you slowly opened your eyes tosee what he’d thrown down.

A gun. A pistol. Much smaller, much more easyto handle than what he was currently sporting.

You stared down at the weapon with wide eyes,feeling your blood run cold before you looked at Kuroo with panic; You knewwhere this was going. It was a cliché ending you’d seen in so many crimemovies.

“Ah, I’m glad you’re getting the picture clearly.Yes, because your husband insists on getting you back without paying us for ourwonderful services of keeping you safe, I’m going to allow you to choose.” Theboss smiled, motioning with the gun between you and Kuroo, “Either you shootyour husbands accomplice… Or… We shoot him, let you cry over it for a fewminutes, maybe a couple days or weeks before we finally let you join him.” Heoffered, as if it were the most kindest of ultimatums anyone had ever offered.

Fear seized your entire body as you stareddown at the weapon again, your breathing was slightly labored, but you met Kuroo’seyes again. You couldn’t. There was no way in hell you’d be able to do whatthey were telling you to. Either way Kuroo was dead, whether it was by yourhand or theirs.

Tears started to well in your eyes and Kurooshook his head, “Shhh, it’s okay, _____… It’s alright…” Kuroo’s voice wassoft, but he couldn’t find the will to tell you everything would be alright…Because it wouldn’t. The both of you would die. There was no light at the endof this horrible tunnel, and either he was going to die by your bullet or thegoons. Either way you’d be left with the image of his dead body. He sat upstraighter, not moving his head but looking over at the boss through the cornerof his eyes, “If she kills me… What then?” Kuroo’s voice was strong, notshowing how completely terrified he was feeling. He was good at hiding hisemotions, but there was a limit for everything.

The man stared at Kuroo with raised eyebrows,crossing his arms over his chest and pursing his lips as if he were thinkingabout the question asked. “Well… Considering she was our target, and you werejust an extra body… I suppose we would just keep her… Tell her husband we stillhave her alive and well but that his accomplice is dead.” He chuckled, “Maybewe’ll even disclose where we left your body. You know, to show we aren’tmonsters.” He shrugged before looking back at Kuroo seriously.

Before you could think of what was happening,Kuroo turned his attention back to you, reaching forward and grabbing the gun.He quickly put the gun in your hands to show the goons that he wasn’t tryinganything again, he was trying to get you to take action. Your hands felt likethey weighed a ton with the weapon now in them. But you looked at Kuroo withwide eyes, “No.” You tried to push the gun back into his hands, trying to getit as far away as possible. But he only pushed it closer to you, trying to getyour hands to hold it as safely as possible so the kickback didn’t hurt you. “No,Tetsu. No.” You stated seriously, your voice finding some strength to it. Hewas babbling the entire time, trying to talk over you panicking and pushingaway from him.

“Just do it. Just do it. If you do it, you canlive. You can live to see another day. Just do it.” He kept babbling, finallygetting you to hold the gun properly before he raised your hand to rest thebarrel of the gun in the center of his forehead. The two of you stilled, as iftime had stopped, and he stared up at you as best he could with the gunobstructing his view. “Just shoot me, ____… If you kill me, you get to live.I can’t face the thought of you being dead. Think of Bo. Think of him, and pullthe goddamn trigger.” His voice was desperate. “Please… Live…. Live for me.” Hewhispered, closing his eyes and leaning into the guns barrel.

“Tetsurou.…. I… I can’t…” You whispered backat him, feeling the gun get too heavy in your hold before he allowed you todrop it in between the both of you. Tears were blurring your vision as youreached forward as best you could and lean your forehead on his shoulder. “Ican’t, Tetsu… Don’t make me… Please.” You pleaded, feeling him lean his headagainst yours in defeat.

The boss frowned, “Ah, how boring. Well, youknow what to do boys.” He waved his hand at his two goons before walking out ofthe room, “Make sure to clean up when you’re done.”

Kuroo curled his body closer to yours, tryingto protect you a little bit longer, “Just close your eyes, ____… It’ll beover soon.” He whispered quietly, closing his own eyes tightly as he heard thegoons ready their weapons with fresh bullets, aiming them directly at you andhis own bodies.

It was silent for a few beats before thedeafening sound of bullets rained in the small room. You didn’t feel a thing,you’d initially jumped in surprise, but had only leaned closer to Kuroo,finding his presence familiar and as calming as this situation would allow. Butthe sound of the guns letting loose sounded odd. You figured you would havebeen dead by now, seeing the bright light you thought Bokuto had seen.

But there was no light.

No heat.

The echoes of the bullets quieted down andrevealed the heavy breathing of those in the room.

Yours.

Kuroos.

And one other.

You wanted to open your eyes, see for yourselfthat the end wasn’t there yet. But you were scared. Terrified. But the heavybreathing… It sounded familiar…

“____.” The voice called quietly, and youreyes flashed open. Before you could realize what was happening, you were up offthe floor, stumbling all around with your numb legs, and crashing into theowner of the voice, wrapping your cuffed hands over his head and burying yourface in his neck. “_____… Thank God your safe.” Bokuto whispered quietly,completely opposite from how this whole situation started. You felt your bodyshaking in his hold, and realized you were crying, soaking his shirt with yourtears. He dropped his weapon before holding you closer to his chest, pressinghis lips against the side of your head and closing his eyes in relief.

Kuroo opened his eyes after you’d taken offtowards Bokuto, and he looked with a relieved smile, “Dude…. What the hell tookyou so long?” He asked, reaching up with his cuffed hands to wipe away his ownscared tears. A scuffling noise had him reaching for the gun he’d tried to haveyou take and point it at the door. But he dropped it as soon as he saw afamiliar pudding head peek inside the room, “And you! Where was my cover?” Hehuffed as Kenma made his way over to him, picking the cuffs lock so Kuroo wascompletely free.

Kenma pursed his lips, “I didn’t have a cleanshot. You would have had half your head blown away.” He grumbled, feeling sorryas soon as he said it since it was clear that had been a very prevalent threattoday for Kuroo.

You pulled your head away from Bokuto’sshoulder and stared up at him speechless, your hands still bound with the cuffsbehind his head, but using what mobility you could to run through his hair. Hegave you a wide smile before leaning down and pressing his lips against yours, “ThankGod… I was so scared I’d be too late….” His voice was soft, barely above awhisper, and you felt your tears continue to stream down your face. He’d beenso worried. He’d gotten shot trying to save you, and now he had taken out thegoons, and their boss, just to get you back home. To get you back to him.

Feeling your heart breaking in your chest, youpulled your lips from his; You’d treated him like shit, like absolute shit justbefore you’d been taken. You’d yelled at him for being happy to fucking seeyou. How could you ever live with yourself, knowing he put himself in so muchdanger just to get you back? “Kou, I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry, baby. I said somuch, I yelled at you. I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean it, I’m so sorry.” Youcried, feeling your hands be freed from the cuffs from his aid before you wereable to lay your hands on his chest, your right hand coming into contact withthe gauze wrapped wound under his clothing. You’d caused him so much pain andsuffering and all you did was yell at him. “I don’t think I can fix this… Kou….I’ve wrecked so much… You got shot…. Tetsurou… He got kidnapped and I almosthad to kill him and we almost died…. I don’t think there’s any way for me torectify this…. I fucked up so badly….” You whimpered quietly.

Bokuto shook his head and held you closer,laying his left hand over yours on his bandaged wound, right next to his heart.He didn’t know what to say to assuage your guilt. This whole ordeal had justbeen because he was too excitable. He felt his shoulders slowly drop as hepressed his forehead against yours, “It’s all my fault, ____… I need to be onmedication… I’ll go see the doctor as soon as we get back home…. I don’t wantthis to happen aga-“

“NO!” You yelled, making everyone in the roomjump with your sudden outburst. Bokuto stared at you with his wide golden eyes,having not expected you to have such a loud voice after everything that hadhappened. And granted, the volume and strength of your voice had now causedyour throat to hurt from the force, but you needed him to know. He was perfect.“I don’t want you taking that poison… It was my fault, Kou… I was mad aboutwork and all this crap that happened to me…. I was angry and I took it out onyou… And I’m so sorry…” You hiccupped before reaching up with your left handand cupping his cheek. Your eyes stared deeply into his, “You’re perfect theway you are… Please don’t change anything…”

Bokuto smiled softly, and turned his head tokiss your hand, “Only if you promise me something…”

“What?” You couldn’t ever remember your fiancéasking for a bargain, an agreement between the two of you. For as long as you’dknown him, he was very free in his choices and his decisions in life. If hedidn’t like something, he tended to move on and leave that one thing alone. Theonly promise you’d ever made to him was to be his wife, to love himunconditionally until the day you died. His golden eyes stared at you intently,his lips still against your palm, but he moved his lips to rest against theunderside of your wedding band.

“Please…. Don’t go where I can’t follow…”

[cagedbirdsong]

pearls, chapter one

as promised, chapter one of pearls! i am beyond excited for this, and hope you all enjoy! you can find the prologue here!

feedback, is welcome, encouraged, and appreciated! mwah!

I. Nature Boy

It started in a bar on a rainy Friday night…

The door clanged shut behind him with a rattle of the thin window pane, and Jamie at once pulled his hat off his head to beat it against his leg, turning the collar of his coat down as he was at enveloped in the warmth and energy of the bar. Outside, a stray clap of thunder heralded the worst of the storm, and he shivered in relief to be out of the rain.

“Jamie!” The voice across the room caught his attention at once; his lifelong best friend Ian Murray was crowded with a group of guys at the end of the bar, and stood half out of his seat, flagging Jamie down with his hat over the crowd of people dancing, smoking, and drinking.

“Ian!” He clapped the other man on the shoulder, already reaching for a shot from one of the others, and tapped their glasses briefly together. “Sláinte!” They tipped their whiskey back together.

When they came up again, Ian grasped Jamie by the back of the head, pulling him in close to hear him over the din of people dancing and live music. “Whaddaya think, Jamie? A wee bit o’ trouble before the end?” His eyes glittered with the beginnings of a drunken stupor, and he punched Jamie neatly in the shoulder. “Find us some girls ta make us men before we die in this bloody war?” His smile faltered, the air momentarily silent between them, but then Ian shook his head and leaned across the counter, signaling for two more shots of whiskey. He pressed one into Jamie’s hand. “Nay mind that! Sláinte!”

Jamie flashed his own grin in return, and threw back the shot. Across the bar, a brunette woman peered at him from over the rim of her glass. He arched an eyebrow, and her eyes smiled, entrancing him for the briefest of moments. The slam of Ian’s shot glass on the counter broke him free of her gaze, and when he glanced back she had turned back to chat with a redheaded woman.

“Come, Ian,” he shouted, grasping his friend by the arms and hauling him up. “Have a dance!”

“Just a beer, thank you!” Claire practically had to shout at the poor server to allow him to hear her over the chaos of people talking, a live band playing music, and the stomp of dancing feet. Minutes later, the young man dropped a mug of ale in front of her and a martini in front of her friend Geillis.

“So, Claire.” Geillis leaned in, her glass untouched. “What say you to a little fun tonight? I’m sure there’s a young laddie somewhere in here just waiting to be seduced.” Her eyes glittered with mirth.

Claire felt her cheeks flush, and shook her head with a laugh, sipping at the foam of her beer. “I say not tonight, Geillis! Unlike our young laddie, I am waiting to be absolutely hammered. We’ve been accepted into medical school; we might as well kill our livers to celebrate!” The redheaded woman raised her glass in cheers, and the two sat peaceably in relative silence, enjoying the clamor of life around them.

After a moment, Geillis nudged her. “Well, don’t look now, but there’s a handsome young laddie just walked in, hmm? Are ye quite sure ye wouldna like ta get hammered and hammered?” She dissolved into a fit of giggles, and Claire’s face blazed.

“Quite sure, thank you, Geillis.” Nevertheless, she looked.

He was quite an attractive young man, tall and lean and broad shouldered. She could make out small details of his face from such a distance, but could see the prominent line of brow and jaw. A mop of auburn curls topped it all off. She couldn’t tell, but she’d bet his eyes were blue.

Geillis was looking at her with a gleam in her eye.

“Thank you, Gelis,” she said, raising her mug and turning her back on the newcomer. Still, she found her eyes sliding in his direction every now and again, drawn almost magnetically to the stranger.

She was looking at him again. That had to be at least the fourth time Jamie had made eye contact with her, that woman from across the bar. Naturally, he and Ian drifted closer, weaving through the crowd clustered on the cleared swath of floor being used for dancing, both curious to get a sly look at her.

He risked a smile in her direction, and he might have imagined it, but she ever so slightly raised her drink, eyes glittering. He lifted his glass.

Ian kept looking at him smugly, eyebrows raised. “Are ye no’ gonna go over there and talk to her?”

Jamie snorted, walking to the bar for another drink and leaving his friend to follow. “Am I no’ gonna talk to her? Of course I’m not.”

He might as well have been stupid, for the look Ian gave him. “And why no’?”

Jamie shrugged, accepted a glass of brandy, and rubbed a knuckle beneath his nose. “I canna just go and make advances on a lady like that. She’s out wi’ a friend, enjoying herself. Would ye drop it, ye wee fiend?”

Ian groaned and threw himself bodily upon the bar. The tender paused to look at him, and he wagged a finger theatrically in Jamie’s direction. “He’ll die a virgin, my stupid friend!”

The bartender poured them both more whiskey.

“He’s looking again!” Geillis leaned in close enough that her breath stirred the hairs by Claire’s ear, and her skin momentarily prickled in discomfort as she shoved the other woman away.

“Oh, do stop, Geillis. Really, can’t you just enjoy the two of us being out at a bar? We’re women in a man’s world, this is call for celebration! Do you know how many women actually get to attend med school in this day and age?”

Geillis grinned. “I know o’ two!” She leaned in and dropped her voice. “One of which is about ta become a major in anatomy.”

Claire groaned.

“Maybe he’ll come over here.” The other woman was chattering now, brimming with excitement. “Oh, I wonder what his voice sounds like. I bet it’d make yer wee heart ooze.”

“If your heart’s oozing, my friend, find a doctor,” Claire grumbled into her drink.

But her eyes still flickered across the room. Hopeful.

“I suppose I could go and say hello…” Jamie caught her eye again, and this time gave a small smile. She blushed, he licked his lips, and her eyes grew momentarily wide.

“Damn right ye could go and say hello ye auld fool!” Ian leaned far enough forward to almost topple off his stool, grabbing onto the bar counter for support. “It’s one word! I’m sure ye can manage.” He giggled into a tankard of beer, and Jamie thought he heard him murmur “clotheid.”

One word. He could manage one word.

He took one last swig of his drink and stood up.

“Oh my God, he is coming over!” Geillis squealed, hiding her face in her drink, and Claire’s head snapped up.

Sure enough, the ginger fellow had abandoned his friend at the bar and was picking his way across the room, his eyes trained on her. Claire felt a shiver rip down her spine.

“Oh my God,” she whispered, “he’s coming over.”

He was close enough now that he could see little streaks of honey amid the chocolate of her curls.

His face came suddenly into view, like a telescope put into focus. His eyes were blue.

“Evening, ladies,” he said too quickly, his tongue feeling thick in his mouth.

The redhead giggled. The brunette woman just smiled a little, cheeks flushing.

He cleared his throat.

“I, uhm,” Jesus Christ, this should not have been so hard. “Could I - I would like verra much to buy ye a drink, miss.” Blue met gold, and he could have died then and there and been a happy man.

She smiled, and something in his stomach tightened, like a rubber band stretched too far. “If you tell me your name.” Her voice was musical, and when she leaned in to better be heard over the sounds of the bar, he caught a whiff of her perfume; lilac.

“Jamie Fraser.” His name spilled off his lips all at once, his eyes locked on hers. “At your service, ma’am,” he added as an afterthought. Beneath the table, Geillis stepped on Claire’s toes.

“A pleasure, Jamie,” she smiled, extending a hand. “Claire Beauchamp.”

“Claire.” He said her name reverently, and she felt her knees go momentarily week as he took her hand and bent to kiss the knuckles, folding the fingers over his own calloused digits.

He hoped his palms weren’t sweating. Her hand was delicate and smooth in his, cool as porcelain, and the smell of her perfume was stronger as he pressed his lips to his knuckles, the smell of flowers and her skin suddenly heady. He straightened, and smiled, testing her name on his lips. “And what will ye be drinking, Claire?”

She smiled coyly, peering up at him through her lashes. “Whatever you’re having.”

Her lips met his with a clash of tongue and teeth, desperate and hungry, and her hands flew up to grab fistfuls of his curls, tugging and pulling in her need to be closer to him. He slipped his hands up under her dress, roaming over thighs and around the curve of her arse as she ground against his lap, pulling back to catch her breath.

They had gone outside to talk under the guise of it being quieter, but one thing had led to another and they found themselves a tangle of limbs in Jamie’s old Ford now, the windows slightly fogged and their breath mingling in the air.

“Oh God,” Claire groaned as he dropped his attention to her chest, fingers fumbling with the buttons as his lips sought out what skin he could reach. Her fingers tightened in his curls as he finally got the buttons open enough to expose the skin of her breasts, which prickled with goosebumps. Her hands dropped suddenly from his hair to his shoulders, clawing and pushing at his shirt. He had been wearing a tie, but he had no idea where that was now, and Claire was yanking at the collar, panting. It popped open suddenly, buttons flying, and she shoved it down off his shoulders, smoothing her hands over his now bare skin.

God, he could have died.

She caught his mouth again, and he tasted blood as her tooth caught his lip, her tongue smoothing over the cut without pause. He groaned and she swallowed it down, dragging her nails across his back.

“Let’s get out of here,” she breathed against his lips, and oh how he wanted to do just that. One of her hands shot momentarily down between them to grasp him through his pants, and his hips jerked of their own accord, eliciting a small noise of pleasure from her.

He wanted to lose himself in her, in the taste of her skin and the smell of her hair. It took entirely too much effort to pull back from her, one hand coming up to cup her cheek. “Wait, wait.” She sat back on his thighs, hands falling from his shoulders, and he offered her a reassuring smile. “Believe me,” he murmured, and his voice was husky, “there’s nothing I should like more, but I can’t.” Confusion briefly flickered across her face, and he brushed his thumb across her cheek. “I ship out in the morning,” he breathed, speaking the words for the first time. “I’m with the RAF. Gonna go and see if we can’t shake these Jerries.”

She sat quietly for a moment, and then laughed a bit, sliding off his lap to sit next to him. “You’re a crab.” She must have seen the question on his face - she raised her hand to fix her hair and then turned to face him. “It’s a term for the air force boys. I have a friend in the Marines.” The hand waved in dismissal. “Where are you going?”

He smiled a little, and licked his lips, shrugging. “Dinna ken. Wherever they put me, I suppose.” She laughed, and her eyes crinkled at the corners.

“Well, I hope it’s nowhere too dangerous. Just a little. Get your blood pumping.” She was doing a well enough job of that right now, and she damn well knew it. He grinned.

“I’m sorry ta disappoint ye, lass,” he chuckled, gesturing to their varying states of disarray, and she shook her head with a smile.

“It’s probably best I don’t leave my friend to her own devices anyway.” She turned his rearview mirror so she could see herself, and did her best to quickly compose her appearance, and then she was opening the door of his truck and sliding out into the night as if their little tryst had never happened.

“I- Claire, wait-” he leaned over, making to get out of the truck as well, but she shook her head and leaned up to kiss him briefly, a fistful of his shirt caught in her hand.

When she pulled back, she pressed a small square of linen into his palm; a handkerchief, white and clean with a small rose embroidered in the corner. He caught a whiff of her perfume on it. He looked up at her and licked his lips, eyebrows furrowed. “Why?”

She shrugged, and stepped back with a smile, backing away from his truck. “Just a little something to remember your life before the war when you get tired of shooting at Jerries all day.”

And then she was gone, disappearing into the night and leaving him with little more than the taste of her on his lips and a folded up piece of fabric, warm from touching her skin.

He leaned back against the seat and blew out a breath. “Jesus.”

continue reading here...

[consumingromance]

Pred and Prejudice 5: In which Prey accepts a predator’s invitation to join him for lunch

Friend? That was already an improvement. Alex smiled back. “Nothing wrong with different. I’m sure we can find things we have in common, bridge the gap.” He realized suddenly that his tail had started wagging, and his face quickly turned red as he willed it to stop. Stupid, traitorous thing. “A-anyway, I’ll, uh, let you go back to what you’re doing... I, uh, should probably hit the shower, just let me know when you’re done, and we can hang out.”

"Yeah," said Roque. "Back to it. I'm supposed to be done around noon."

Alex nodded and went to the fridge, giving his head a quick shake to shake off the embarrassment when it was hidden behind the door. Why was it whenever he tried to play it cool, his dumb tail betrayed him? He grabbed a chilled water bottle and downed it as he made his way back upstairs. He was panting, but he wasn’t sure if his heart was racing from the exercise or from how nervous he felt.

***

The cold shower helped, and by the time he'd toweled off and dressed, he figured it had to be close to quitting time for Roque. Hopefully he wasn’t too far behind thanks to Alex’s distractions. Alex hadn't planned to start his day by bothering him, but there was just something about Roque that made Alex want to see what would happen next.

Still, he drew the line at coming back downstairs in nothing but a towel, opting instead to dry off and fish out a pair of jeans and a t-shirt from his closet. But his hair wasn't completely dry yet, so he headed downstairs with a towel around his head. He was still scrubbing out the last of the dampness when he returned to the kitchen, finding Roque gathering up his cleaning supplies.

Alex gave his head a final shake, letting his hair cascade around his shoulders.“So you, off now?” asked Alex, smirking at the look he was getting.

“Yeah,” he said, “I just have to pack up my things and wash up.” He hoisted a plastic bucket, filled with various cleaning supplies and cradled it under one arm. Then he turned to find the broom and grabbed it with his free hand. Alex wanted to offer some help, but he didn’t want to make him feel like he couldn’t do his job.

“Great,” said Alex, trying to sound cool and not too eager.

Roque bit his lower lip and looked down a moment. “Yeah, great...I mean, if you’re sure you still want to hang out?"

“Yes, I’m sure,” Alex beamed, though he silently reminded himself to stay cool about it, don’t embarrass yourself. He did a quick tail check, willing it to stay still as he tried to think of what they could do that wouldn't scare off Roque now that he'd decided to stay. “Do you like video games? Or would you rather just watch TV and chat? You know what? Why don't you just meet me in the theater room after you finish up and we'll figure it out then?” Man of man, it felt awkward standing around while Roque worked. It would have been so easy to give him a hand instead of letting him carry everything by himself. Two sets of hands were better than one, right?  

Let him work and don’t interfere, that was the rules right? Roque could do his job and he didn’t need help, and Alex didn’t want to insult him or get in the way of his routine. A little bit of talking and going about his business in front of Roque this morning hadn’t been interfering right?

“Yeah, sounds good,” said Roque, he didn’t seem particularly excited and Alex wondered if he would have said anything Alex suggested sounded good. He hoped Roque didn’t think he had to pretend to enjoy himself to make Alex happy. Then again, Alex knew from experience that Roque was more than capable of saying no and being blunt.

Stop overthinking everything. Alex wandered into the theater room, which really lived up to the name: home theater. Nice recliners, projector, a collection of films and streaming services too-- everything they needed to have a nice afternoon together.

He heard the door open and shut. Roque had to put the stuff in his car. Once that was settled, he’d come back inside and there’d be nothing to do but enjoy an afternoon together. Better place that pizza order. He pulled up the app on his phone, vegetable supreme should be good, right?

He could wait and ask Roque what he wanted, but the whole pretext was he was ordering a giant pizza anyway. Besides, once Roque came back Alex had a feeling he’d be too distracted to remember to place the order.

Alex couldn’t believe he was actually going to get to spend the day with Roque! He'd spent half the week analyzing everything he'd said that first day, replaying what he'd said in his head, trying to figure out what he should've said instead. The other half of the week, he's racked his brain trying to think up what he should say when he saw Roque again-- or IF he should say anything at all.

The combination of anxiety and excitement he'd worked himself into had him awake far earlier than normal each day Roque was scheduled to work. It had become like a Roque-centric schedule. He'd spend the morning laying in bed with his eyes closed, listening to his parents getting ready and heading to work. One day he left before his parents, just to avoid seeing him since Roque wanted space.

Then today he'd argued with himself whether or not he should get up before Roque arrived to make a good impression, or if that would make him seem creepy, or like he was trying too hard.

Ultimately, his stomach won out. He woke up early and his stomach thought that being awake should mean breakfast, and besides, he was tired of hiding in his room and skipping a meal whenever Roque was around. He thought he could slip down, say a polite good morning, make a good impression, and then go back up to his room. No long conversation, because the effort wouldn’t be worth the risk of coming off wrong. So the plan was simple, grab a quick snack then go back to bed and stay there. But Roque had thrown off that plan the moment he stopped him and told what an idiot he was being. Maybe not in so many words, but Roque had noticed he'd been avoiding him and told him flat out he didn't have to. That was a relief. Of course, he wasn't sure what to do from there. Do what he'd normally do? What he'd normally do was flirt. Also, he’d have more for breakfast than a yogurt cup. So then the plan became go back down, eat something, maybe work out...show off a little. Or not...it wasn't really a plan. It was a thought that he wasn't going to follow through with until he heard Roque singing. He'd pointed his ears towards the door to listen. He wanted a to hear more. Get a bit closer. Maybe he had snuck up on him, just a little bit, if only because he didn't want to interrupt the singing right away. Then of course he’d had to open his big mouth and ruin everything.

He couldn’t help it, Roque’ voice was so beautiful that he had to say something, although he hadn't meant to sound like such a dick when he spoke. He certainly hadn't meant to give Roque a heart attack. Then again, it was almost worth it, given how adorable Roque looked when he was soaking wet.

Still, he felt bad about it. Maybe he should offer Roque the shower? Roque had dried off, but hadn’t really gotten a chance to clean off, had he? Alex could lend him something to wear while he washed his work clothes and grabbed a shower. Of course, suggesting anything that meant taking off clothes would probably be too easy to misinterpret and come off sounding the wrong way...

Although his little work out routine had probably already done that. He'd tried to act natural, but natural for him included flirting. Especially around someone as cute as Roque. But he really had meant it as a friendly sort of flirty. Even if Roque wasn’t up for a summer fling, being friendly would still be a good alternative.

Maybe he needed to stop showing off so much, but it was just too much fun, trying to get a reaction. And besides, Roque had agreed to hang out, so something had to be working, right?

The door opened and shut again, and in short order Roque came into the theater room, eyes instantly going to the collection of game systems.

“You have a Classic? Those are impossible to get! They only released a few and they sold out instantly, how did you get it?” he said, “Oh man, I had an old one as kid my brother salvaged from a dump and fixed up. That brings back some memories.”

Alex grinned and nodded. “Yep. Got it last Christmas. No idea how my parents managed it, probably paid way too much to some price gouger online.” It was nice seeing Roque suddenly so enthusiastic, especially about something Alex was enthusiastic about himself.

“Here, all of the games for that are in here.” He pulled out a drawer and gestured to the tidy row of cartridges. “Pick whatever you’d like to play,”

Roque knelt down, looking over the games. “There’s not a lot of two player games though,” he said, going through the cartridges.

Alex shrugged. “That’s alright. You can play and we can talk, or we can swap turns. I can play them whenever, so I don't mind watching you." He didn't want to admit that he'd enjoy watching Roque, because that might come off a little creepy, but Roque didn't seem to notice. He seemed to relax as he looked through the various game titles, apparently recognizing a lot of them. Alex was already making a mental note of the mention of Roque’ brother; something to ask about once they were settled in and having fun.

"Thanks, and if I get stuck I can ask you for help," said Roque cheerfully. He pulled out a game. "The third one was always my favorite. Well, aside from World, but that was on the super."

“It’s like you’re reading my mind.” Alex grinned and took the game, getting a controller and turning on the console. “You can go sit. Hey, before we start, do you want something to drink? I need something, so I don’t mind getting something for you, too.” He didn’t really need something to drink, but he was worried Roque would say no if he didn’t say he was going to go anyway.

"Sure, are we allowed to drink in here?" he asked.

“I mean, I wasn’t when I was a kid, but I think we’re both responsible enough not to make a mess.” Alex chuckled and turned to the door. “What do you want? We’ve got water, juice, soda...”

"Soda's good," said Roque. "Or whatever you're getting."

“Okay. You go ahead and get started, I’ll be right back.”

As he headed into the kitchen, Alex let out a quiet sigh of relief. Good, things were going well this time. He just had to not do or say anything stupid, and Roque would hopefully be up for hanging out through the summer. Maybe even more, but Alex didn’t want to get his hopes up there. Just take it one step at a time, man, and see what happens.

He got a couple cans from the fridge and went back, handing one to Roque with a smile.He settled back onto the couch beside Roque, making sure not to sit too close, but there was a companionable closeness to sharing the couch.

Roque nodded in thanks and set the can in the couch’s built-in cupholder, eyes bright with excitement and transfixed on the TV screen. Alex could see that he'd already made it part way through the first level, the character breezing through each obstacle as though Roque had been playing the game all his life.

“You look like you’re enjoying yourself already,” Alex remarked with a raised eyebrow and crooked grin.

Roque chuckled and shrugged. “I haven’t seen this game in years. It just reminds me of all the time I spent playing as a kid. Though I had to fight my brothers to get any time with it.”

Alex’s grin grew a bit. Now that he wasn’t working, Roque seemed perfectly happy to open up about personal information. And, without even noticing it, Alex relaxed enough to forget about flirting or trying to impress Roque and could just enjoy hanging out.

“So, you’ve got more than one brother?”

“Yeah, six and one sister,” Roque replied. “It wasn’t easy growing up in a small house with that many boys. I think my mom wished she’d had more girls, but the first pregnancy was twins and the second was quads. She kept trying for a girl and got one on the third pregnancy along with another boy. After that I think she was done having kids.”

“So you’re a twin or a quad?”

“Quad,” said Roque, “My two older brothers, Hodei and Hector are twins. They’re about four years older than my brothers and me. You’d never guess they were twins, they don’t look alike and they’re complete opposites personality wise. Then with me, my mom had basically had two sets of identical twins at once. I guess it’s what happens if two eggs split, double twins. Then there’s the youngest set of twins, Lane and Rayen, are like six years younger than me.”

“So there’s another person who looks just like you running around? Does it get confusing?”

“Well, he smiles more,” said Roque.

Alex had to laugh at the thought of such a big household. “Oh, man, that sounds nuts! My parents could barely handle me alone, yours must have gone absolutely crazy trying to keep all of you under control!”

“Well, one of my brothers is in jail,” Roque admitted with a shrug, and then blushed. His jaw quickly clamped shut, and his eyes flicked from the TV to look at Alex for just a moment.

“Oh.” Alex stilled for a moment, silently looking at Roque. His curiosity was immediately piqued, but was asking about imprisoned relatives really appropriate for some he’d known for a few hours cumulatively? He scratched the back of his head as he made himself turn to the TV. “That must be rough.”

“I’m sorry,” said Roque with a sigh. “I didn’t mean to make things awkward. It’s a good thing, really. He’s an asshole. My other brothers aren’t bad at all-- they’re great! Zeru and Ortzi are complete sweethearts, and Hector and Hodei nice. Hodei wants to join the military but I’m not sure if a rodent will be able to go far… He’s... small...but he tries.”

Alex shot him a smile. “No worries. They all sound nice. I’m sure Hodei can do it if he’s set his mind to it. Rodents can be tough.” Compelled to reveal a little about himself and to try to lighten the mood, he started to blush a little. “Don’t, uh... Don’t tell anyone, but I got into a fight with a rodent a few years ago and he, uh... He kicked my ass.” He pointed to a scar on his arm that had once been a nasty bite, too embarrassed to look at it himself. “So, y’know, size doesn’t always matter.”

“Man, that looks like it hurt.” Roque paused the game to look at it. “What did you do to piss him off that bad?”

Alex cringed a bit. He’d forgotten the depths of how embarrassing it really was. “Well, it was back in high school, and he was a total jerk and I was a bit of a troublemaker, so I...made a crack about his family to get under his skin.” He laughed self-consciously. “Worked a little too well, as you can see.”

“What did he do to piss you off then?” asked Roque. Alex turned to look at him, and Roque flushed a little under that stare. “Sorry, it’s just hard to imagine someone like you getting picked on, especially by a rodent.”

Alex shrugged. “I wouldn’t say he was picking on me in particular or anything, he was just really obnoxious, showing off in class and talking like he was better than anyone else. I just got sick of listening to him and wanted to piss him off to get back at him.”

“Is it wrong to think you might have had that coming?” asked Roque. “Depending on what you said… but I can imagine.” He looked down then and away, biting his lip. “I mean...I’m sorry.” He paused the game and set down the controller, unwilling to meet Alex's eye.“I should probably go.”

Alex looked over at Roque with surprise. “What? Why? You don’t have to.”He put down his can of soda on the table beside Roque', feeling his stomach clench with disappointment. “I mean, you can if you want to, but you don’t have to.”

“It’s just… I don’t want to say something I’ll regret. You’ve been really nice, and I don’t want to piss you off.” Roque rubbed his neck, avoiding Alex’s eyes. “And I might have been a bit harsh saying you had it coming. It’s just, I mean… I’ve… had people say stuff about my family.”

“What stuff?”

“What do you think? I saw the signs out front...You know what people say. Prey have more kids than they can afford, if they can’t control their numbers maybe someone else should do it for them. As if having big families would justify-I’m sorry... I mean, I know that you're, um... You know what, I should just go."

Alex went quiet for a moment then sighed and leaned back in the seat, shaking his head. “Roque, I’d never say that! As for the signs…” He sighed heavily. “Let’s just say I don’t agree with my parent’s political views but since I sort of want to keep living here I don’t really argue...I’m sorry.”

“Alex-”

“Look, I know how it looks-- and I know how it sounds when I SAY 'I know how it looks', but believe me when I say that I don't agree with everything that 'people say.' I would never ever say anything like that. As for what I did say... well you’re probably right, maybe I deserved to get punched?” Alex said, laughing softly even as he cringed. “I mean, it was a long time ago, I don’t really remember what I said but I know it wasn’t exactly nice, so I probably did deserve it.”

Honestly, he did remember calling the guy a ‘garbage-eating rat’ even though he knew that the guy was really a shrew. But he didn’t want to say that out loud and risk making Roque think even worse of him. Especially after the whole “bunny” thing when they first met, he didn’t want Roque to think he made a habit of intentionally mis-identifying prey species.

“So you’re not mad at me?”

“What? Never,” said Alex. “I mean, that guy back in high school was an asshole, but I’m not as hot-headed as I was back then. Deliberately making a shrew mad at me was a low point. I’m not going to get mad at you for calling me out on it.” He smiled again, hoping to reassure Roque enough to stay.

“A shrew?” asked Roque, actually chuckling. “You do know shrews aren’t rodents right?” Roque shook his head, still laughing. “You really are hopeless, aren’t you? I mean, it’s ok, you’re trying to be sensitive about all this but, wow…”

“Oh... Uh...” Alex grimaced a bit as he blushed again, internally cursing himself. He was just giving Roque an increasingly bad impression of himself. “S...sorry, I, uh... Wasn’t really thinking...” He blushed darker, realizing that he just made himself sound stupid.

Roque smiled as Alex fell over himself apologizing. “Hey, it’s all right.” The words came through light laughter. “I mean, don't get me wrong, you're kinda ignorant, but.. I don't think it's willful, or that you really mean anything by it. Shrews are actually predators, they’re venomous and in the bad old days they ate mice. I guess it’s easy for you to just lump in everything smaller than you as a rodent, but it’s not too late to learn.”

Alex looked up as Roque laughed, still deeply embarrassed, but he couldn’t help smiling a little. “Yeah, I guess... I mean, either way, I know that people smaller than me can still do a lot of damage, so it was a good lesson that I’m not about to forget.” He gave a playful grin despite his blush. “I mean, you’re small, but I would never mess with you, just in case. I’d bet you could bite pretty hard with the right motivation.”

“Would you mess with me otherwise?” asked Roque. “Your teeth are a lot bigger than mine and sharper. I don’t think I’d win. Not that I’d ever want to fight you.”

Alex chuckled softly and shook his head. “Of course not. I like you, and I wouldn’t want to hurt you. I know I’m an asshole, but I wouldn't bite you unless you asked me to.”

Roque half choked on his soda. He set it down as he coughed.

“You ok?” asked Alex, eyes wide.

“Yeah, I’ll be all right,” he said, “I just...didn’t expect you to joke like that.”

“Clearly you don’t know me well enough yet.”

“I don’t really get why you like me so much,” said Roque, although he had a light flush on his face, and was fighting back a smile. He picked up the controller again, shoulders relaxing.

There were so many things he could say, but before he could get any of them out the doorbell range. “Oh, hey, that’ll be the pizza. Hope you like vegetables.”

“I’m a herbivore,” Roque deadpanned.

Alex forced a laugh and made for the door to sign off on the food. Why did he have to suggest pizza. The doorbell ringing really killed the moment. Then again, Alex wasn’t really sure what he would have said...Maybe this would give him more time to think it over.

He opened the door and took the boxes from a bunny girl who looked up at him wide eyed, like he just might have her for lunch instead of the pizza. Those damn yard signs, he’d be lucky if no one spit in their food.

When he returned with the box Roque was once again engrossed in the game. Maybe he regretted asking Alex why he liked him?

“Food’s here,” said Alex, opening the box. “I’ll go grab some paper plates. Do you need another soda?”

“Sure,” said Roque, “thanks. Do you need any help?”

“I got it,” said Alex.

He returned with plates and a paper towel roll in case they needed napkins. He picked up a slice, folded it in half and lowered the dripping cheese goodness into his mouth.

“You know,” he said, between bites. “I don’t understand how you couldn’t see what anyone would like about you. You’re pretty likeable.”

“Really?” asked Roque, taking another bite.

“Well yeah, you’re real cute, you seem nice. I know we haven’t known each other all that long, but we’ve been having fun so far, right?” He paused to take another bite and wash it down with a long swig of soda.

“I think it’d be worth it to keep spending time together, see what kind of chemistry we have.” Alex turned to flash a smile and a wink. “I also like how you’re not afraid to stand up to me. Makes you even more attractive.”

Roque blushed redder than Alex’s hair or fur. He looked down, the fur on his ears standing on end, body tense. From what Alex could see off his expression as Roque stared at the floor and it honestly looked like he was praying for the couch to swallow him whole if that meant escaping this conversation.

Alex bit his lip.  Now he’d done it. He’d over stepped and made him uncomfortable. This was harassment, wasn’t it? He was being a creep. Fuck!

“Ax-Alex, we talked about this,” said Roque, shrinking further into himself. He put his slice of pizza down and shook his head. “We can’t...I shouldn’t even be here.”

“Uh, sorry, I...didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable.” He silently cursed himself for pushing yet again then did his best to smile at Roque again. “Who says you shouldn’t be here, though? I live here, and I invited you to stay for a little. My parents aren’t going to mind.”

“I’m not exactly the kind of person your parents would want you to be friends with, Alex. You might be able to ignore their views, but I can tell what they think of prey like me." Then he paled, and quickly added. “Don’t tell them I said that, please.”

Alex looked at Roque with a smile for a second then shrugged. “Most of my friends aren’t the kind of friends my parents want me to have. I don’t exactly care to live up to their expectations. Never have, never wanted to.” He winked. “This won’t be the first time I’ve kept things from them. Try not to worry so much.”

“So it’s less that your parents aren’t going to mind, and more they’re not going to know,” said Roque but he didn't sound angry about it, just thoughtful. “But I guess mine won’t know either. So that’s fair...”

Alex’s smile fell a little as he shrugged. “Look, what I mean is that they really won't mind you hanging out with me after you’ve finished working. You’re certainly not the worst person I could be spending time with by their standards.” He playfully ruffled Roque’ hair. “They just don't need to know what we do when we spend time together, or that I want to spend as much time with you as possible."

“I haven’t agreed to that yet,” said Roque, swatting his hand away and crossing his arms.

Alex laughed and had to resist the urge to play with Roque’ hair again; his hair and ears were so soft. “I didn’t say you had, I just said I was hoping to.”

“Be friends or date me?” asked Roque.

Alex blushed, startled by the sudden directness and scratched the back of his head, unable to meet Roque’ eyes. “I mean, either,” he muttered, glancing at Roque for a second before his embarrassment made him look away again.

“And what if your parents find out?” Roque pressed. “And you know it couldn’t ever go anywhere...I’m prey, Alex. And I don’t want to say anything bad about your parents because I work for them, but plenty of the preds I work for are voting for a candidate that hates prey, so I keep my mouth shut about that because I need the work and I don’t want a fight. But I get the feeling people voting him don’t really like prey much themselves.”

“Look, I know some preds who are voting for him are...well, shitty to prey, but my parents aren’t that bad. I mean, they wouldn’t want me dating prey, but...” He shifted where he sat, just getting more embarrassed having to talk so candidly. “I mean, I’m definitely not voting for that stuck-up bag of hot air.”

"You really mean it when you say 'either'?" Roque softly asked, staring at him. "Not like pretending to be my friend because you're hoping eventually I'll sleep with you, and then getting mad when I don't..."

Alex was finally able to meet Roque’ eyes again as he shook his head with a smile. “Of course not. I like you whether you sleep with me or not. I honestly don’t care whether you want to date me or just be friends.” He grinned, trying to lighten the mood again. “I’ll be disappointed if you don’t want either, but I still won’t get mad or try to force you or anything.”

“You didn’t exactly seem to get the no the first two times,” said Roque. He turned away and picked up his pizza again. He ate in silence until he’d finished the slice. He reached for a drink, and once he was finished  he turned to look at Alex. After a long pause he said, “But me saying no...it’s not because I don’t like you. I do, you seem really cool and attractive but...I guess I’m just worried about what other people think. There’s also the job and the fact that you’re older than me. And you have to admit, we’re from pretty different worlds. Even though you’re not like I expected… it would be tough to make it work.”

Alex chuckled awkwardly. “Look, I get that, and I agree, it sucks. There's not much we can do to change those things, I’m sorry to say,” he sighed, looking at Roque quietly for a minute.

“I’d be lying if I said I didn’t think about that stuff a little the past week,” he admitted with a shrug. “But, I mean, what’s the worst that can happen? I’m not going to tell my parents, so you’re not going to lose this job. We can be careful about where we go and who finds out, so if it turns out we’re too different, we can break it off. Besides, I’ll be going back to school at the end of summer, and we won’t have to see each other if we decide to call it off.”

“That’s sounds fair, but what if it gets messy?" Roque bit his lip and looked down for a moment. "I've always had to be the responsible one. At least of the younger siblings and I always liked being responsible. Doing what I'm supposed to do. Working hard. Not messing around...and here I am messing around and considering doing something I know is probably very stupid.” Roque took a deep breath and then suddenly sprang to his feet. He jumped up so fast it startled Alex, but when he looked up he was grinning.

“But...gosh, you’re just so...wonderful!" Roque bounced on the balls of his feet, like his body could barely contain his excitement. "I know all the reasons I should say no but all the same I really, really want to say yes. You seem like a really great guy and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't interested, I guess I've just been trying to come up with reasons why it would be bad to date you, and I didn't really think it would be good for either of us to consider why it might be worth a try. I've been trying to think of you as nothing but an asshole when you're going out of your way to be polite and considerate. And.. I am sorry about that, because it's not fair to you to make those kind of assumptions."

Alex considered his next move for a few moments before reaching out to gently take a hold of Roque’ hand with a smile. “We can take it slow, one step at a time. Shouldn’t get too messy as long as we’re careful.” He chuckled a bit. “I can’t help but wonder what all the wrong reasons you thought up were, though. You didn’t think I was going to try to eat you or anything, did you?”

“What? No...well that wasn’t near the top of my list.” Roque blushed harder, looking at their hands instead of Alex’s face. “I was afraid you might have some kind of maid kink and you’d want me to dress up in a sexy outfit and clean or… I don’t know, I don’t know how kinks work!”

Alex had to laugh, lightly squeezing Roque’ hand. “Come on, I’d wait until we’re a little further along in our relationship before I’d start trying to get you into sexy costumes for me,” he joked with a wink.

Roque smiled sheepishly. “Well...you know what I mean? Right? There’s a lot of stereotypes. Submissive prey maid fantasies or the fact I look like a bunny and everyone just assumes bunnies are easy -- hell prey in general are only interested in one thing. I guess I was worried that you wanted me because of what I am or what you thought I was instead of who I was...And I guess worrying about that was kind of stereotyping you as a overly aggressive and demanding pred, and I’m sorry for that.”

Alex slowly managed to quell his laughing, just looking at Roque with a big smile. “Nah, don’t worry about it. That just means we both made a lot of incorrect assumptions, huh? And we can both do better now. Just know that it doesn’t matter to me that you’re prey or that you clean houses, I just thought that you were attractive when I first saw you, and talking to you has made me like who you are underneath.”

“Well, I still feel bad for not waiting to see who you are underneath before judging you,” Roque said. “So maybe I can make it up to you. How about a date? If you still want to take me out sometime.”

Alex’s ears immediately perked up with excitement. “Yeah, of course! I’d love to!” He took a breath to try to soothe his excitement and stay calm. “Any time you’re free.”

Alex’s tail thumped against the leather chair as it wagged in unbridled happiness, but Roque only grinned. If Roque wasn’t embarrassed by him, then Alex wasn’t going to be embarrassed. Maybe instead, they could just be happy.

“Well, free is going to be the tricky part,” said Roque with a sigh and a shrug.

Alex shrugged, enthusiasm undiminished. “Most of my friends are out of town, so I have pretty much nothing on my calendar. Any time you have a couple hours to go out, I’m free to take you.”

Roque smiled at that. “Thanks for understanding. Huh, this will be cool. Like actually having a real summer vacation. Even if it’s just for a bit.” Ven

Alex was silent a moment, wondering just how much it was acceptable to pry. “What kind of summer vacation do you usually have? You work a lot?”

“Work, yeah, and study,” Roque said with a casual shrug. “I don’t think I’ve had a real vacation since I was fifteen. Even before that I had to help babysit my younger siblings. Once I could work a real part-time job, I spent every free moment trying to earn money so I could save up for prep classes for pre-college entrance exams and then college entrance exam. I did pretty good on the tests my Junior year, but decided to retake it in the fall anyway. The higher you score the better chance you have at a scholarship. Then this summer it’s as much work as possible to save up for next fall.”

Alex gave a low whistle. “Wow, impressive. My parents would love to have you as a kid instead of a lazy delinquent like me.” He quickly rethought what he said, realizing he didn’t want Roque to get a bad impression of him after all of this. “Not that I get in a lot of trouble, I just don’t do what they expect from me.”

“What do you do then?” asked Roque.

Alex sighed a bit as he shrugged. “I’ve spent a lot of time doing what they’ve planned out for me. Boarding school, tutoring, music lessons, sports, summer camps, volunteering for whatever causes they’ve deemed will look best on resumes and school applications. Before I moved out to college, I spent pretty much all of my time trying to get out of whatever they had planned out to make me a better, more productive representative of the family.”

“So is boarding school like in Harry Otter?” Roque asked, head cocked slightly “And summer camp sounds fun.”

Alex had to chuckle again. “Uh, a bit? Half of the teachers are either Snape or Umbridge. Most of the students are stuck-up and catty. So, Hogwarts minus the interesting and dynamic characters, but with about the same chance of dying.” He shrugged again. “As for camp, it depended on the counsellors and whether I got along with the other campers. Some of them were only fun when a group of us were sneaking away from group singing to hike and eat snacks we stole from the kitchen.”

Roque laughed lightly and grinned at Alex. “Hiking and sneaking out sounds fun. I’ve never done anything against the rules, well except maybe ignoring ‘no skateboarding’ signs. Were there s’mores at camp?”

Alex smiled, remembering the fun times. “Yeah, but since high school, it’s been test prep camps, so fun is pretty much impossible. I guess neither of us have had a fun summer in a while. But, yeah, at the fun camps, we always had s’mores at least once during the summer.”

“Test prep camp?” Roque asked. “Like those super expensive ones with the individual tutors and intensive study? I’m actually kind of jealous. I basically had to live at the library studying out of books.”

Alex shook his head softly. “Yeah, those. I wish you could’ve had that chance instead of me. They suck when you don’t want to be there.”

“Poor you.” Roque shook his head wistfully then smiled. “But you’re right, we haven’t exactly put the break in summer break. Maybe we should have s’mores sometime? I’ve never had real s’mores, like over a fire. Just microwave s’mores.”

Alex paused and look at him with surprise. “Really? Never? Damn, I’m going to have to fix that! We’ve got a fire pit out back, and I’m going to have to make sure I get you real, perfectly fire-toasted s’mores! I’m a bit of a pro at them.” He winked.

“What? Now?” asked Roque.

Alex shrugged, unconsciously scooting to the edge of the couch. “If you’re up for it. Why not? I can find what we’ll need in no time.”

“All right,” said Roque. “If you’re sure that starting a fire in the backyard is a good idea.”

Alex beamed. “I may not have a lot in the way of work ethic and useful skills, but if there’s one thing I can do, it’s setting a fire without burning anything I don’t mean to.”

Roque blinked at him. “You weren’t almost arrested for arson at any point right?” He stood to follow him.

“Oh, god, no,” Alex laughed.

He led Roque out to the back yard and made quick work of lighting a fire in the fire pit, He left Roque to babysit the building flames while he ducked back into the kitchen to collect the crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate. Soon, he had some marshmallows toasted and sandwiched, and he held one out for Roque. “Here you go, hope it’s absolutely perfect.”

Roque took it. ”Thanks,” he took the sandwiched treat gingerly between his thumb and index fingers. He took a big bite, well as big as he could fit in his relatively small mouth. As he bit down, sticky molten marshmallow and melted chocolate got all over his face and hands.

“It’s good!” he said after he swallowed. “I like the crispy bits and the sort of fire taste.” He continued to eat, licking his fingers when he finished.

Alex beamed, keeping himself from laughing at the mess Roque was making on himself. “Told you I’m good at s’mores,” he teased, putting some on a plate for he and Roque to share before taking one for himself. “They’re the perfect summer treat, right behind ice cream.”

“I love ice cream,” said Roque. “My friends and I used to take odd jobs during the summer to save up pocket money and we spent most of it on ice cream bars. The last summer I had free we tried to save up to go to the beach, but I lost it…” he sighed, licking off more marshmallow before continuing. “I was mugged and it wasn’t my fault, but I think everyone kind of blamed me. Then I turned sixteen and I got busy. I don’t really get to hang out with them as much anymore.”

Alex’s smile faded slightly from Roque’ story. He felt an instinctive urge to ask if Roque was okay, but that seemed a bit excessive, so he pushed it down. “I had a friend I used to buy ice cream with, too.” He chuckled and shook his head. “But we did some stupid things and kept getting in trouble and drifted apart.” He gave Roque a playful nudge with his elbow. “Maybe some time this summer we can get all of our friends together and all go to the beach.”

“That would probably be a weird group,” said Roque. “It would be fun to go though. I’ve never seen the ocean, but I want to. That seems like a very summer thing to do.”

Alex grinned. “I’d love to take you sometime, then. Everyone should get the chance to spend a summer day at the beach!”

But he couldn't help thinking how much fun it would be if just the two of them went, spending the day together under the sun.He reminded himself, though, that they only had a couple months before summer would end, and finding the time would be hard if Roque was as busy as he seemed. “It’ll probably be tricky, but I’m sure we can figure out how to make it happen. We have plenty of time before summer’s over.”

“I have a feeling you're going to have me doing all kinds of things I've never done before,” said Roque. A moment later he blanched, realizing what he’d just said and the implications he’d inadvertently made. A deep blush spread over his face as Alex cackled, nearly choking on his laugh. Alex had to refrain from pushing the sexual angle to avoid making Roque uncomfortable, but man, it was tempting.

“I mean...like road trips and beaches,” Roque clarified hastily. “I’ve never done those things and I’ve certainly never done anything like sneaking out and doing things behind my parents back. You know, I think you might be a bad influence."

Alex laughed, taking a bite of his own s'more. "Don't knock it til’ you try it. We'll have to wait and see what kind of bad boy I turn you into before summer’s over.”