#it's that perfect mix of 'I'm happy he gets to go home to his son' and 'I'll probably never fucking see him again and already miss him'

[hopesallwegotleft]

"Thank you, Jason. Goodbye, my friend."

The journey of Jason's facial expressions during Salim's goodbye.

[lazycats-stuff]

Could you do batman x son reader, where the reader struggles with an eating disorder. Maybe reader faints on a patrol or maybe he just trys to hide his Ed behaviors (like skipping meals, over exercising, purging, ect...) from the family, but one day the family just figures it out.

I completely understand if you don't feel comfortable writing this. You're writing is just really comforting to me so I thought I'd give it a shot. Have an awesome day. You're writing is amazing. Remember to take care of yourself first

Alright... I'm not uncomfortable, but I don't want anyone getting triggered by this or have someone relapse and fall back into the disorder. I had to be in the right mindset to write this so my apologies for the wait. Take care of yourselves everyone too.

Summary: (Y/N) is struggling with an eating disorder. The family figures it out.

Warnings: symptoms of eating disorder, EATING DISORDER, read with precaution and on your own risk!

(Y/N) has been struggling for a while now, but he made sure to hide it from his family. Nobody needed to know what he has been struggling with. (Y/N) went to the extreme lengths to make sure that his family didn't find out about his problem with food.

He knew that they would be all over him if they found out. He struggled with food for about a while now. He hated the way his body looked and he just wanted to have a perfect body.

It has started with over exercising. Even after everyone was done, (Y/N) would do it until he could barely walk back to his room. He did everyday and when just that didn't give the results that he needed, he started skipping meals. The skipped meals were normally dinners, saying that he was full from lunch.

He didn't do it often, he didn't want to raise any suspicions with his family. If he did anything that would raise suspicion, they would be all over him and they would probably bench him from the patrol. If that would to happen, then he wouldn't be happy.

If there was one thing holding him together, it would be patrol. The only thing.

He often found himself looking at the mirror, looking at his body. He noticed his hair and skin were dry beyond belief. He noticed that he got sicker more often, which didn't happen before. He always had strong immunity.

His teeth got sensitive and that was one of the reasons why he skipped meals sometimes. It has gotten to the point that he got dizzy whenever he stood up.

All of this was getting out of hand, but (Y/N) didn't see it. He has only one goal in mind and that is a perfect body. Something that doesn't exist. There is no such thing called a perfect body. There is no perfection either.

There is nothing in this world that is perfect. Nothing.

Other problem was the lack of concertation. He couldn't focus on anything for longer then 15 minutes before he just had to drop everything and just rest. It was difficult, considering that he is in a family full of detectives who solve cases daily.

Speaking of rest, he had problems too. Sure, being in a family that goes out every night to fight criminals and protect people of Gotham will mess up your schedule to a certain degree. But add an eating disorder to the mix and you have a recipe for disaster of a sleeping schedule.

Not to mention the control of his emotions. He found himself often having very extreme mood swings sometimes, but over time he learnt to control his emotions better. Somehow he managed to do it. But he didn't do certain things with his brothers and dad anymore.

He didn't have energy to do anything he used to do anymore. Only for patrol when adrenaline kicked in. Adrenaline is a hell of a drug when it came to patrol and some other things. But the fact is that adrenaline could only go so far.

Of course, there were close calls when it came to his family, but he managed to steer the attention away, keeping his disorder a secret for longer. If only (Y/N) knew what was going to happen soon.

Everything came to a head when all of them got back home from patrol. (Y/N) was freezing in his suit. Despite the suit being good at both heating and cooling, (Y/N) was shaking quietly. He could hear everyone talking, but he felt dizzy.

He blinked a few times before everything went black right before his eyes. Bruce has never turned around faster and Damian tried to catch him, but couldn't. Bruce ran over and quickly picked his son up, calling for Alfred to prepare the medical area.

Jason, Tim and Dick watched horrified from the side. As Bruce ran with him, he noted how light he was. Extremely lighter. Significantly. But that didn't matter now and Bruce didn't piece it together yet. Alfred watched as Bruce laid his grandson down.

Bruce had to step out to let Alfred do his thing. The boys were waiting patiently to hear what has happened to (Y/N).

" B, what's happening? " Jason asked and Bruce shook his head.

" I don't know. He just lost his consciousness out of nowhere. " Bruce explained to Jason and Damian just thought about certain things.

" Did anyone notice how often he worked out and for how long he did? " Damian asked and everyone got quiet for a moment. Dick nodded, snapping his fingers. " He does. He works out 2 hours after us too, just overworking himself. I thought it was stress. " Dick added to Damian's thought.

" And did anyone notice how often he skipped dinners? " Tim jumped in and Bruce had to think about it. He did skip dinners often.

" Or the fact that he doesn't do anything with us anymore? " Jason jumped in too and Bruce paled as he connected the dots.

" Also, his mood swings somethi- OH! " Dick said and Bruce sighed quietly.

" What are we thinking? "Jason asked and Bruce took a deep breath.

" I think that (Y/N) might have an eating disorder. " Bruce said quietly and everyone was shocked by it. But... it made sense.

" What do we do? " Tim asked and Bruce, probably for the first time in his life didn't know what to do.

" We tell him. We see how he reacts. And if he does have an eating disorder, then we are going to help him. One way or another. " Bruce declared and Dick quickly went to the Batcomputer to look into the symptoms quickly.

Just in case.

And to confirm their suspicions.

" How were we so stupid? " Jason asked and Bruce wondered the exact same thing. He did. He is his father, he is supposed to see when something is going on with his son. He is supposed to know it. If not know it, then sense it.

The dad sense! Bruce looked at the medical area where Alfred was making sure that his son and his grandson is okay.

" I was so blind. " Bruce muttered to himself as he rubbed his face.

" No B. " Dick said from the Batcomputer. There was a solemn look on his face now, eyes directed towards the medical area. " We were all so blind. But we can't stay on it now. We need to look for the ways to help (Y/N) if he does have an eating disorder and I think he does. " Dick said and Damian rubbed the back of his neck.

He couldn't help it and Jason had to sit down for a moment. Tim was just quiet. Dick looked down at the floor and Bruce just wanted to hug his son, but beat himself up at the same time.

His son has been suffering and yet they all were blind. Everyone moved to Alfred who exited and everyone was buzzing with excitement and sheer curiosity for their brother and son.

" He is skinny beyond belief. I can see his bones protruding and I nearly started crying right then and there. Oh I have been so blind. " Alfred said and the boys quickly brought him into a group hug. Bruce hesitated before joining in.

" We are going to help him. " Bruce said both to everyone and to himself. It is a promise and an oath. And does Bruce intend to make sure he fulfills it. No matter what.

[thehusbandoden]

I love imagining that Kirishima would be even more excited to be a dad than to be a Pro Hero. But I also think he'd try to keep those parts of his life separated, to keep his kid(s) safe. You just KNOW the first time his child(ren) get caught up in some danger he'd go feral on some Villains.

A/n: I loved this idea and went a little overboard lol. I kinda want to write a drabble but I'm not too sure, but for now here are some headcannons!

Kirishima as a Dad Headcannons

General info:

Genre: slice of life (?) \\ wc: 1,625 \\ female reader

Warnings!: kidnapping, violence, Kiri losing it, kids being taken away/kidnapped, ummmm pls let me know if I miss any! <33 Anon, if any of these are triggering for you please reach out to me and I'll fix it!

Oh my goodness yes.

When you told him that you were pregnant he cried- happy tears of course. Manly happy tears.

He was so excited, and was instantly asking for paternal leave

Which was denied- but anyway

He loves to take care of you.

Foot massages, belly rubs, kisses wherever whenever, cuddles, weird cravings, manual labor, anything, you name it and it's yours.

Honestly you got a little spoiled lol

Though he's so excited for his gorgeous baby that will have the perfect mix of genes, he tires to drown out his thoughts of you and the angel you're growing in your womb.

He has work to do, and if he doesn't do his work you and baby will have a higher risk of harm befalling you.

He slowly masters the art of not thinking about his reason for existence, and solely focusing on work.

He already hides you pretty well from his fans, simply telling them that he was in a very happy, and very serious long term relationship.

The majority of his fans were super understanding about it all and were just glad he was happy, but the fake ones would still hit on him, try and guilt him into sharing more details, or even try stalking him to get a glimpse of Mrs. Perfect.

He didn't tell the public that you were expecting until he left on Paternity leave, and he didn't share anymore details outside of that.

The real and fake fans were clear to see by their reactions.

Once baby is born he's literally already so in love.

If you had a problematic delivery he'd be more worried about you, of course; but as soon as he knows you're okay he is immediately putting eighty percent of his attention on baby boy, and keeping the other twenty on you.

Crying manly tears as he watches you hold him, standing next to you as you feed him for the first time.

Once you two have had enough skin to skin time and you decide to rest, he takes your beautiful baby boy in awe before kissing your forehead lovingly.

"Thank you so much Pebble. He is just as perfect as you."

After making sure you're situated he sits on the chair closest to your bed, and simply watches sweet baby boy.

When he falls asleep he holds him to his bare chest, talking to him softly.

He doesn't dare rest until you're awake. He's read too many horror stories of the horrors of villains harming a pro hero's baby, or even having the baby purposely or accidentally swapped with another.

Once you do wake up, he's quick to reward you with a sweet kiss and your baby boy in your arms.

For the next while in the hospital you two take turns with baby boy, you mostly holding him while you're awake, and Kiri holding him while you rest.

Even though you tried to convince him to get some sleep, he wouldn't listen. He literally could not rest until the two of you were safely tucked into your home. There were too many dangers for you and baby, and he refused to make you wait on him.

Once he gets back to going to work he is absolutely miserable. He hates being away from his babies, and the worry kills him every time.

Luckily, nothing happened to you or baby, well at least for a few years.

Baby boy was seven, and you both had a daughter who just turned four.

Kiri was at work, and you were making dinner.

Your son had asked you if he could take his sister outside to play in the backyard; not seeing anything wrong with it, you agreed.

You even had a window above the sink looking over where they were playing, it was supposed to be safe.

A new organization of villains targeted your family due to Kiri stopping a robbery that would help them immensely.

Using their leader's quirk, they were able to find out a bunch of information about you and your precious babies.

All he needed was two men.

One to take you, and one to grab your kids.

Though you put up quite the fight, you stopped as they started to target your stomach.

There was something they didn't know; that you would make sure to keep hidden.

They ended up with you and your kids handcuffed in a dark room.

You were absolutely terrified of what was going to happen to your babies, but you put on a brave face, comforting your children with a smile.

They would cry and shuffle as close to you as possible, asking you where daddy was and asking if he wasn't coming for them.

"No no, darling. Your daddy is coming, he'll save us very soon!"

And that he did.

Like always, he came home to eat dinner with his gorgeous family.

Walking in, he let out a loud:

"Daddy's home! Kisses and hugs are in order~!"

He expected to hear giggles and the pattering of small footsteps sprinting towards him, a far more familiar set following close behind.

But, to his disappointment; the house was silent.

Walking toward he kitchen, he frowns at the mess by the island. Spilled food and cooking utensils scattered the floor.

"Y/n baby? What happened in the kitchen?!"

Walking outside, he panicked at the sight of a fallen off shoe and jacket.

Those were both signs of struggling..

Sprinting inside, Kiri yelled for you to come out as he scoured the mansion for another sight of his gorgeous family.

The lights were on- if you left you would have turn them off.

Calling your phone, his heart dropped at the sight of it's cracked screen lying on the floor of the kitchen, his contact name "Hubby 🥰😏" lighting up the screen.

Taking a second to collect his thoughts, rage filled his being as he studied the picture of him being hugged and kissed by his babies, huge smiles planted on their faces.

Hanging up the call, he quickly went to Bakugo's contact, calling the tsundere uncle.

"Ha? What do you need n-"

"They're gone."

"What?"

"Somebody decided to try and take my world from me. They're gone- and we need to find them."

The seriousness in Kiri's tone made the man shiver. Somebody was dead- so dead.

"I'll call the idiots. You get Rikona on the line."

Rikona was a fellow hero in the Bakusquad agency. Her quirk was related to her immense intelligence, and she was the one to call if you needed to get any kind of information quickly. She could easily find Kiri's family in mere minutes.

After calling her, Kiri followed her instructions, which eventually got him to a run down ware house.

After thanking the hero and sending his location in the Bakusquad groupchat, Kiri put his phone on silent and made his way inside.

He silently took down every villain he came across.

After a short while he found his way to a large room, where several men were.

Studying the scene closely, Kiri could only see red as he spotted you tied to a chair, cheek visibly reddened.

Your kids were on chairs near you, tears streaming down their cheeks as they watched the men hovering around them.

Moving to contact the Bakusquad, Kiri snapped at the sound of a slap.

Jerking his head towards the sound, uncontrollable anger pulsed through Eijiro as he lunged towards the villains, knocking down every single one that dared try and stop him.

Getting to the scum that dared touch you, Kiri hardened his arm before elbowing the villain in the face.

Hard.

Now that the path was cleared, Kiri wasted no time untying you and your angels, hugging the three of you comfortingly.

"Shhh it's okay. I've got you now, I've got you."

He stayed right next to you, glaring at any villain who dared take a step closer.

He was cornered. And there was no way he was going to leave your side- it would be too easy for someone to take you away again.

As a villain approached, Kiri hardened his arm a little more, sending out a warning.

Anyone stupid enough to get close enough to reach any of you received a harder-than-rock elbow to the face.

Just as five villains approached, Bakugo and the Bakusquad burst in, immediately setting to work to help.

Bakugo and Mina immediately started attacking the villains, while Denki and Jiro started tying up the knocked down villains.

Using his tape, Sero brought you and your kids to him and out of harm's way, much to Kiri's relief.

Now free to go all out, Kiri absolutely annihilated any for he could reach, not holding anything back, he pounded the villains into the ground, only stopping to attack the next one.

After all of the villains were defeated Kiri moved to the leader- the one that hurt his Pebble.

Bashing his elbow into the dude's face, Bakugo literally had to pry him off of the passed out villain to stop him from beating him to death.

After snapping out of it Kiri instantly hurried to the separate room Sero took you and his angels to.

Throwing open the door, he hugged the living daylight out of all three of you, apologizing and cooing words of comfort and reassurance.

After taking you three home Kiri spoiled the kids, playing any game they wanted.

And after reading them to sleep, he turned to you. Engulfing you in an embrace as you finally let yourself cry.

Kiri took the next three weeks off, finding ways to keep you all safer.

The first thing, would have to be a guard dog. A giant, beautiful German Shepherd.. yeah that sounded nice.

~~~~

A/n 2: I hope this was okay! If not feel free to reach out to me! <3

~

Kiri's masterlist | Navigation

You can tip me here <3

Reblogs and feedback are immensely appreciated! <33

9/26/2023

~~~~

Do not copy, repost, nor plagiarize my work. Ask before you translate or use my work in any way -minus reblogging.

[marymary-diva17]

our perfect family of three (modern au)

Life is beautiful and perfect in your eyes as you had all that anyone would wish for, a wonderful husband and adorable child as well. This had been something you had been wishing for since you, had been young and it finally came true. The perfect husband that made you feel love and happy and son that always found ways, to bring a smile to your face. It is your perfect family and it could be something that your husband will agree with you on.

y/n " ummmm" you had soon rolled out of bed after removing your husband arm from around your waist. It was a brand new day and it was no time to get ready for the day, as it a start a brand new week and that means many new or normal things coming your family way.

y/n " well lets see what we can get done in the morning" you had gotten dressed for the day as you are working from home at the moment, so you had made your way downstairs to see what will be breakfast today and what things need to be later on in the day.

y/n " we have some oatmeal and fruit left that will be good along with some yogurt if the boys don't feel like oatmeal" you had gotten some packages of oatmeal out and started boiling some water, as well for the breakfast.

y/n " well that covered now lets decide on some fruit ... perfect" you had pulled out some mixed berries, and place them on the counter to be taken later on. Soon enough once everything was laid out you soon heard footsteps rushing down the steps.

spider " morning mom"

y/n " morning kiddo so you and lo'ak I still in the skater look I can see"

spider " hey it very fun but we also play other sport and get good grades"

y/n " that my boy well are having some oatmeal for breakfast"

spider " cool and you have my favorite one maple brown sugar"

y/n " I always back sure to buy the one that comes with all the types" spider soon started getting his breakfast ready and that when someone else came down the steps.

tsu'tey " hello my wife and son"

spider " hey dad"

Tsu'tey " hello my son"

y/n " hello my husband we are having oatmeal today"

Tsu'tey " good do we have any apple cinnamon"

y/n " yes and there some fruit as well" the father and son start eating their breakfast, and acting like any usual father and son.

Tsu'tey " hey maybe after school today we can play some rounds, of basketball father vs son or we can go against your uncle and cousins"

spider " I'm in lo'ak has been talking alot smack lately he need a taste of his own medicine"

Tsu'tey " good your uncle has bene the same it still hard to believe, he and your mom are siblings"

y/n " hey even due he can be a jerk at times he still my brother"

y/n "remember we are still family the tree of us and them we need to be there for each other"

spider " unce Jake made you mad yesterday"

y/n " yes so win for me" the father and son smiled at you making you smile back, soon the tiro had all started laughing of what happened taken place right now.

Tsu'tey " finish up your breakfast and I will give you a ride to school"

spider " thanks dad" the two of them had finish up their breakfast before they grabbed their stuff to leave for the day. Tsu'tey and spider said goodbye to you and soon left, the family of three is perfect no matter what anyone had to say about them.

[aliypop]

I'm Coming Home

Word Count: 1,051

Writers Note: I had this idea while I was at work

Warning: Language/ SMUT

Pairing: POC OC x Elvis

Plot: March 8th, 1960, the biggest arrival that Cecelia could wish for, but with tension and high stress she almost misses the G.I. she'd been waiting for

Taglist

@darkmoviesquotespizza

@sissylittlefeather

@richardslady121

@thegettingbyp2

@presleyenterprise

@dkayfixates

@rjmartin11

@thetaoofzoe

@your-nanas-house

@zayurir

@60svintage

@sillybookmarks

@leapresley

@everythingelvispresley

@dreamondina94

@elvismylove04

@pocketfulofpresley

March 8th, 1960, Graceland 

"Carlotta, did you put the punch on the table?" Cecelia asked as she nodded. They'd been up for two days prepping for a surprise welcome-back party for Elvis,

" Rosa. Midge, did you get the Guitar cake?"

"Shit..." Midge sighed,

"Please get that cake, it's important!" Cecelia sighed. She had made every dish on the table thus far with the help of her mother, Delta, Minnie, and others in the house, "Where do you want the balloons?" Denise asked as Cecelia smiled, "By the door." walking back towards Vernon's office to check on him, she couldn't help but hear his phone call. He'd been busy with the press lately, but this was different. 

"I'm happy he's back, but If he didn't go, he wouldn't have killed his mother the way he did..." Vernon said as if a knife twisted in her heart. Cecelia was there the day Gladys took her last breath, and she was there when Elvis cried endlessly. When Vernon looked over, he saw Cecelia, who had a worrying look in her eyes, 

"I'll call you back... Say, Cecelia, how can I help you,"

"Oh, nothing, Mr. Presley, I came to check on you. However, while I respect you as my future father-in-law, let's not forget I'm protective of your son, so if you even think of that bullshit of Elvis killing Gladys at the party, I will rip your kneecaps out and beat you with them do we have an understanding?" Vernon gulped and nodded as he looked at Cecelia, "Good, now Papa Vernon, where do you think the Meatloaf should go?" She asked as he stuttered. After a while, the guests started to pool in, and Cecelia made sure everyone was okay and comfortable, "May I have your attention?" She said as people turned to look at her. "Thank you. Uh, I want to say once again thank you all for coming. Though before we get started, a few rules," She said as everyone sighed. Her mother was proud that she sounded like a hostess. And soon-to-be wife,

"One, no mentioning Mrs. Presley, he's still grieving, and it's a soft spot. Two, no industry talk he's readjusting, and three, please be civilized!" She said as she took a deep breath, "Okay, you may now all continue," Cecelia could hear the fans from outside the gates cheering as she slithered into the kitchen to check on the pies and the cakes. She hadn't noticed everyone fleeing to the car outside. Because she was too focused on everything being just right for Elvis,

 "Alright, Pie over here and cake...Who took a slice out of my..."

"I might've..." That southern accent made her heart race as she looked up at him, "ELVIS!" Cecelia tried to hug him as he gestured to the pastries, "Oh, right..." Setting them down, he picked her up and spun her around,

 "I was supposed to yell surprise and then-" Elvis kissed her as he pulled away slowly, 

"Cil... It's perfect, " He kissed her nose and she blushed,

"You think so. I made all your favorites, a-and, shit the cake!"

"The guitar one?" He questioned as her blood pressure went down, "That was clever," He winked as he pulled her closer, "Oh Elvis, look at you all handsome an whatnot." Delta said as she ruffled up his hair. Elvis laughed as he chuckled, "Come mere, you got family who ain't seen you since you know..." She looked at Cecelia and winked. Cecelia laughed, watching her G.I. go around the house as if he were a bouncing ball, "So...You excited?" Midge asked,

"About what?"

"Getting married."Cecelia looked at Elvis, her lip between her teeth, focusing on how he moved in his uniform, 

"I take that as a yes..." Midge laughed as Cecelia watched Elvis walk towards her,

 "Cece, can I uh see you for a second?"

"Sure thing, sugar."Taking him by the arm as they walked toward the kitchen. Elvis pinned her against the wall as he kissed her deeply with a firey hunger,

 "El...Here..." Cecelia blushed,

"Would'ja prefer the stairs..."

"Mhmm..." The two ran up as far as they could so no one could see them. Elvis lifted up the skirt of her dress as he removed her petticoat, pleased at the fact she was wearing pantyhose, 

"Planning for this, huh..."

"I don't know what you mean..." She smirked as he slipped in a finger. A sigh left her lips as her body shivered,

 "Oh, you don't..." 

"Elvis..." Cecelia's eyes were hazy as he smirked. She heard his belt unlatch as he whispered, "Hold on, darlin," Cecelia held onto the railings as she felt him slip inside her, her knees buckling from the two years without him inside her, 

"Mmm, I missed you..."

"I missed you too, El~vis..." She gasped as she felt him move a little, 

"God, I missed this..."Elvis groaned in her ear as she nodded. His hips began to pick up the pace as her moans were stifled, 

"I wanna hear you, baby..."

"But what about-"

"Who cares..." He began to reach deeper inside her as she let out a loud, whining moan. Her body yearned for him in need. And in want, as she turned to look at him, his lips on her neck leaving love bites as she gasped. He had missed how wet and warm she felt and the sounds she'd make with every thrust, 

"Oh! Oh!Oh!" Cecelia began to rub her clit as she felt herself getting closer. Elvis was almost there. He could taste it. He could feel just how tight her walls were gripping around him and nearly trying to drain him dry. He needs one more thrust, one more-

"HEY E YOU UP ..."

"Uh..." Cecelia and Elvis looked like deer in headlights as he pulled out. Elvis turned to face the wall as he zipped his pants back up, and Cecelia flattened out her dress. 

"Joe, how've you been..." Elvis coughed

"What were you two doing..."

"Uh... resting..."Cecelia smiled,

"Mhmm... Well, your dad's lookin for ya."

"We'll finish this tonight," Elvis whispered as Cecelia nodded,

"Welcome home, Elvis." She kissed him,

*Bonus* 

"You know tanks, rock and roll quite a bit." Elvis laughed as Cecelia watched from outside Vernons' office. She was happy to see him home where he belonged,

[kirbudo]

Knowledge is cursed

M/n is sent home, family drama continues.

Father Weasley keeps the boy preoccupied.

Tagged list: @peter-the-pan @mellowwitchjinx @cherry-blossoms-187

"Where is he?!" Father shouted, pushing himself into the infirmary to see his son's hands and wrists covered in gauze. His eyes shot to the teachers who pulled him to the side. "Mister and Miss Weasley," McGonagall started before looking at Snape to make sure he took notice of her looks of warning. "There was an incident, we are taking measures to punish those involved." Molly and Arthur glanced at each other. "Who was it?" Mother Weasley asked glancing over her son who only seemed to grab at anyone of his siblings the moment he woke up. "Shh, sleep." She heard her sons and the two friends say repeatedly. "Malfoy," they looked at Snape who only stared. "He will be punished accordingly." He spoke before leaving.

Finally, after talking about what they were going to do, they decided to bring M/n home. Hogwarts wasn't the safe place for the boy. His tear stained face seems to finally dry as he gripped Percy's hands as he slept peacefully. Percy stared at the gauze that seemed to slowly stain with blood. "He is gripping too tight. He's going to hurt himself even more." The twins said trying to carefully loosen his grip. Slowly, it was loosened. Percy rubbed his hand trying to let the blood flow.

"Boys, were going to take M/n back home for now," Mother Weasley spoke as Arthur hugged each of his sons, he knew that they would be okay, and glad that they were fine. Even Harry and Hermione. "He's... Going to be fine, right?" Ron asked nervously. This was new. "Yes, he will, dear." She spoke softly and hugged him before pressing a quick kiss to the twins heads. "Now, off you all go." She sighed as she watched Arthur pick their son up.

—•—

A small yawn escaped the boy's mouth, his eyes stared at the ceiling, it had been a few months since he left Hogwarts. His mother barely said a word to him until they were with his father, his father always seemed to be happy to see him and handed him new muggle items. Guilt always hit the boy when he saw those. Arthur just hugged him. Giving him time to process it all before telling him that muggles had a whole world of these things, and that one day he'd get everything back.

Letters, oh, the letters. The twins were nothing but chaotic, one for the both of them and then separated with their own thoughts of the day... It was new, he never expected them to be so... Different. Ron was mixed, short and hurried or long and tangent. Hermione had small affirmations, and class notes since she was also in the same advanced classes as him. Harry was mostly asking about him, if he was fine and if he ate well before going on about how much he learned about his parents. Percy was short, mostly reminding him to eat and rest...

His eyes lit up at the letters.

Dear, M/n.

Cho and I heard about what happened. We should've walked with you the moment we saw you. I'm really sorry, I heard from Percy that you have scars from it. Those Slytherins... Please rest up.

Come back and cheer me on! I'll beat those Slytherins for you of course!

Your dearest, Hufflepuff

M/n! I hope you're okay, everyone has been worried about you. I know you won't believe me but Ravenclaw isn't the same without you, I miss your little chats about muggle inventions. And the others do too. Even our perfect. Hope to see you soon!

Your seeker, Cho.

He smiled as he pinned the letters up. It was nice.b"M/n!" He saw his father drive up in a beat car? He gasped as he rushed over. It immediately clicked on what they wanted. "Flying car!" They both shouted hurrying over to start the plans and blue prints.

The night came quickly as they began to read a car manual that they found, the parts were different but held the same ideals. As much as they wanted to continue, they were called to dinner. They washed up and sat down to eat. The two talked about what to add. Magic and just simple muggle things. "Enough! Stop talking about such things and just eat." Mother snapped as she sighed.

"You're wasting time here. You should be at Hogwarts, learning and making friends. And possibly meeting a good lass!" He shrunk, hanging his head low. "Dear, he hasn't even been away for a week." She scoffed. "Even so! He's just being lazy," M/n stood up. "I'll leave." His parents stared in shock as he stormed off. "M/n! Wait!" Father went after him. "Just leave him!" She shouted after and followed as well.

Arthur gently grabbed his shoulder. "Dear child, just listen," he pulled away. Molly walked over and threw a duffle bag at him. "Leave. Leave now." He stared at her. His hands trembled. "I hate you." He spoke calmly.

Molly's eyes widened before she slapped him. "Molly!" Her chest heaved. Her hand shook seeing the handprint, she reached for him but he moved away. "You played favorites, you think I wouldn't hear you?"

Molly could he heard crying as she held the pink baby onesie. "Another boy... Why... I already have the other why do I need another? I already despise M/n."

"I'm so tired." His voice cracked as he covered his face with his hands. "I hate this. I hate how much I love and hate you." He packed as he spoke. "You should've aborted me. It's fine because Ron looks like your dad, right? Who do I remind you of?" She stared in shock. "My boy." Arthur walked over trying to comfort him. "I'm sorry dad, I love you." He said as he stormed out. "Molly... Ah, M/n! Wait!"

[sitp-recs]

Happy happy birthday darling @wolfpants! I’m so excited to be finally doing a reclist with my Wolf faves. I still remember the sense of awe I felt reading the magnificent Hollow (my very first Remus/Draco, so brilliant and poignant it got me immediately sold on the ship and also obsessed with that verse). Whether it’s Drarry or rare pair goodness, Wolf always delivers top notch cottagecore porn romance with gorgeous settings, captivating characters and a perfect mix of angst, fluff and smut, what else could we ask for? I’ve had so much fun selecting my own favorites for this list. The Drarry section might look small but that’s because I wanted to give a massive shoutout to Wolf’s delicious catalogue of rare pair shorts, which seems to be carefully crafted to meet my personal tastes (you’ll find that I got a soft spot for age gap and Ron thirst but I’ve tried to include a bit of everything and there are quite a few treats from Wolf’s stellar Kinkuary23 collection 🔥).

Dear Wolf, thank you for sharing so many great stories with us. We’re so lucky to have you on this fandom! It’s been amazing to follow your work as you evolve as a writer and explore my most beloved characters and tropes in your unique, creative, fun and self-indulgent way. I hope you’ve had a lovely day and ami excited to see what this new year brings you next! 🎉💜

🐺 Drarry:

Edges (E, 1.5k)

Draco explores the limits of Harry's edges. Harry lets him.

The Farther I Fall, I'm Beside You (E, 2.3k)

What happens when you accidentally kill your friend during a birthday prank gone wrong? You ask your Master of Death boyfriend for help, of course. Check out @getawayfox’s gorgeous art here.

The Holly and the Ivy (E, 4.6k)

This year at the Annual Ministry Yule Auction, Magpies Seeker Draco Malfoy's time is up for sale. When Harry places the winning bid, will their contracturally-binding weekend together heal old wounds, or worsen them?

Look For Me In The Sun (M, 9k)

Harry and Draco are on the run in America after a mysterious string of werewolf-like attacks in the Muggle community causes the Ministry to impose new and harsh anti-werewolf legislation. Giant trees, crashing waves, seedy motel rooms, and the long and winding coastal road awaits them, but will they ever be able to go back home?

Under Giant Mountains (E, 33k)

Harry doesn't know where he's going. Everyone else has their life paths figured out; he doesn't even know where his map is. Who'd have thought Draco Malfoy bathing in a Norwegian forest would be the guidepost Harry needed?

Pages of You (E, 101k)

Summer, 1980. Harry is floating between university and becoming a Real Certified Adult. He's not ready. He really isn't. In a desperate attempt to have the Best Last Summer ever, he takes a casual job at his godfather's bookshop in London, starts an illicit pen pal affair with a wordy posh boy that he's catching feelings for, all while dealing with the son of Sirius's business rival, one Draco Malfoy, insufferable know-it-all extraordinaire. Check out @homoaesthetics ‘s fabulous rec post for this fic here.

👖 Rare pairs:

The Classics (E, 1.1k) - Draco/Sirius

Sirius gets more than he bargained for when he heads to bed after a long day and night in Grimmauld Place.

Viridian (E, 1.7k) - Draco/Blaise, implies future Harry/Draco/Blaise

There’s just something about Draco. Blaise can’t quite put his finger on it, but it’s—an impulse. To poke, to prod, to pick his delicate wings off. To teach him some humility.

Love is a Verb (E, 1.7k) - Harry/Teddy

These days, Teddy loves and hates being alone with Harry. He craves it, and he dreads it, and he thinks Harry’s starting to notice. He wants him to notice.

Hymn to Apollo (E, 2k) - Teddy/Scorpius

It's the night of Harry and Draco's wedding, and Teddy learns Scorpius has an enormous crush on him.

Seat You Higher than the Stars (E, 2k) - Rarry

When Harry tells Ron he's ready to reveal their relationship to their friends, he lets out another confession: that he wants to be completely vulnerable in bed.

Yours & Mine (E, 2.3k) - Dron

Just another Sunday lunch at The Burrow. Featuring French dessert, fond Molly Weasley, flirty Drarry, and Ron's incredulousness.

Like A Brother Would (E, 5k) - Rarry

Ron wants to tell him, again, that he’s not focused, that he’s not planning this whole thing through properly, that he keeps missing things. That they need more structure, that he wouldn’t have lost his temper like he had if only they had the safety of a strategy.

A Bigger Splash (E, 7k) - Dralbus

It's his dad's 45th birthday in rural Sicily, and all Albus wants is to be seen by Draco Malfoy.

The Hollow (E, 12k) - Remus/Draco

They both drink, and Remus wonders how much longer he can stay here. His eyes are already moving around slowly, looking for an escape. Anything to get away from the eerily familiar slope of Draco’s cheekbones, from the richness of the voice that sounds so much like the ghost inside his own head.

Trillium (E, 13k) - Dronarry

Harry and Draco are shagging. Ron’s got a hunch, and the only way to find out is to volunteer his services alongside Harry’s in the Big Malfoy Manor Cleanup of 2010. What could possibly go wrong?

Precious Metal (E, 28k) - Dronarry

Precious metal awaits in an abandoned, cursed cottage on the Isle of Jura. Ron’s illegal hunting ring is on it, but disaster strikes when he runs into a jumpy and suspicious Draco Malfoy, camped out where the treasure is hidden. What happens when they accidentally unleash a bond curse when both of them harbour feelings for the same man?

Tiny Home (E, 30k) - Dronarry

Harry and Ron left the Aurors years ago to travel the world and make up for lost time. When they finally decide to settle roots back in England, together, building a tiny home in the Lake District by hand seems like the perfect plan. What they don't realise is that Draco Malfoy already lives on the plot of land that they choose to build on. Check out @slytherco’s scorching art for this fic here.

[russian-soft-bitch]

It Had to be Done

Nick Goode x reader

Requested by: anon. Can I request a Nick Goode with a love quinn type of wife who is extremely giving and liked by people and an ideal partner, but she has not hesitation killing to protect her family including keeping her husband's secret safe?

Warnings: mentions of killing, blood, death

A/n: okay, this is my first fic I'm SO proud of, I like it so much, besties.

He was laying in your bed with you sound asleep in his arms; your delicate hand laying there on his chest just above his heart. The night was in its full glory; moon shining through the curtains, light illuminating your beautiful face. Nick looked at you and kissed your forehead, trying not to wake you up. Moments like this were very rare nowadays, with his job and your want to make Sunnyvale even better for your future kids.

Kids. He couldn’t believe he was thinking about it; not just dreaming but really considering it. Before he married you, Nick promised himself to never get married and never have kids; he didn’t want them to become just like him. But meeting you was what changed his life forever. His emotions, his motivation, his plans. Meeting you was the best thing that ever happened to him. Before you, he thought Ziggy was the person he couldn’t fall out of love with. She was always there, in the back of his mind, constantly reminding him of his failure as a son, as a boy and as a man.

From the very beginning, you never treated him the way he was treating himself; you never spoke or even thought lowly of him, telling him every day that he’s the person who’s making their city better and better every day. Nick couldn’t remember a day without you telling him that he’s the smartest and the most handsome man you’ve ever met. With you by his side he was happy to the point of being afraid to wake and realize that his sick mind just created you out of nowhere, mixing all the traits that could compose a perfect woman, and that all that was just a dream.

The opportunity of seeing you every day, waking up by your side, talking to you was something he wouldn’t trade for the world. The moment he told you about his not so little secret, he was scared to death of you turning your back to him and never going back. But you surprised him yet again. He’ll never forget your soft hands on his cheeks, your soft quiet voice saying that you’ll never leave him, no matter what. Nick still remembers your tentative steps and careful touches when you explored the place you thought was just a basement. You never brought it up again.

You only asked Nick about it when the Shadyside mall incident happened; his answer was simple, “It had to be done”.

You wouldn’t have any more questions, but you started to see a particular teenage girl pretty often. After the very touching ceremony in memory of those who died tragically in the mall, you joined Nick, having a little hope to spend some time with your husband alone, but something happened in the woods. Stupid teenagers couldn’t keep it easy, you thought. You sat there in sheriff’s car, just watching. Then, one night you couldn’t sleep and decided to drop something to eat for Nick and Kapinski. The whole gang was there, trying to say something about the skull mask killer trying to get them. You left the department and went straight home, hoping to see Nick there.

‘Did he choose the wrong one?’, was all you could think about, pacing the room again and again. When you confronted Nick about it, he told you that he has everything under control and that you don’t have to worry about it. Control, my ass.

That faithful night, you were down there, sitting beside the stones, hoping to never use the knife you were holding. Nick told you about the secret tunnels that connected some spots in both cities to his house, so you knew, if something happens, he will go here.

The moment you heard his voice, you started to follow it, then Deena’s scream followed. The moment you saw Nick, you knew something was wrong. He looked puzzled, scared, confused. He looked like he saw everything what has to do with the place you were currently in. Deena was clutching a knife in her hand, raising it higher and higher. It probably lasted seconds, but you were feeling like everything was too slow in that moment. Crying out, you were stabbing her in the back. It didn’t kill Deena, the adrenalin was still keeping her alive and fighting. The knife she wanted to pierce through Nick’s head, ended up injuring his neck. Out of the corner of your eye, you saw him sitting down helplessly, trying to stop the blood that was oozing out of the wound. Deena turned to you and tried to stab you, with a weak scream leaving her mouth.

You pushed her, making the knife fall out of her hand, “You act all pure and noble, like you have reasons to just stab people! But when I do it, I'm some manic nut job!”. Deena was trying to grab her knife, “He’s a killer! Don’t protect him, just run away!” You took a moment to look at Nick, panic overflowing you for a second, as you saw him laying on the floor, eyed closed. You didn’t have more time to think about it, as you felt sharp pain in your shoulder. You cried out, holding your knife tighter and trying to hit the girl again. “He’s my husband! And I’ll kill anyone to protect him!” With the final blow to her chest, she dropped to the floor unconscious. You took a few deep breaths and ran to Nick.

He died that night. With horrible images running through his head, with the knowledge that he doesn’t have enough strength to protect you, the love of his life. Seeing you fight for him, for the life you two had. He didn’t see the final act, your eyes burning with rage as you finished off the teenager.

He only saw your bandaged shoulder, fabric red with blood in a few places. Saw your eyes glowing with unshed tears and feeling of relief. Saw white walls and ceiling in his hospital room. Something tight blocking his neck, nor allowing to turn it.

Horrible pictures he saw the night before seemed like a bad dream; only the pain in the neck reminding him that he should’ve been dead.

He felt your soft lips on the scar he hated so much. Nick blinked a few times, chasing away the horrible memories that took place two years ago. You kissed his jaw and stroked his chest, lowering your head above his heart. “Honey, you need to sleep, our kids will wake you up too early again”, your gentle voice was still laced with sleep. “Yeah, I was just thinking…how grateful I am to have you”, you felt his arm holding you a little bit tighter. You smiled and felt yourself slowly drifting back to sleep.

[unluckyhoneybee]

I feel that we need to explore more about bff family life. Like does she have siblings, a noisy aunt,a loud grandfather, an annoying younger cousin that has a crush on her bf...?

How would Mick fit in her family dynamics?

Part 38. Best friends to lovers. MASTERLIST.

Note: thank you for all the fantastic ideas you gave me. I mixed some of them, as usual. This part is basically a bunch of little pieces of the day. YMN (your mum's name); YDN (your dad's name); the other characters will be OC.

Also, I won't list the prompts here because there were many. Somehow I lost a couple of them: one about Bff having a bunch of siblings and another about a cousin with a crus on Mick or something similar. I have written it with all I remember. I'm sorry girlies.

Your mum and aunts love Mick so much.

"Mum! Auntie!" You said getting into the kitchen.

"YN!" You arrived. Your mum walked to you and gave you the biggest hug. "How was the road?"

"Well, I have a professional driver to take me here so..."

You knew Mick would blush. Your mum and aunts loved Mick so much. He was that cute blondie, well educated and shy. He had always been around and they saw how he grew to love you. So he was perfect.

"Come here, my son in law"

Mick chuckled a bit and he hugged your mum, you grabbed his cheeks and gave him a bunch of kisses.

"How is everyone at home? I haven't spoken to your mum for a while"

"Good, YMN. We are doing good" Mick smiled and kissed your mum's cheek too.

"Ok, I want kisses from the blondie too. Come here, Mick" Aunt Maria said.

You laughed when Mick blushed. Mick didn't really need a fan base, he had your mum and aunts.

"Hi, Maria" He said politely and hugged her. Aunt Maria gave him a kiss in the cheek, leaving a lipstick mark.

"Oops, let's clean this"

Mick was blushing hard.

"Mick, come here honey. Try this." Aunt Rosa gestured for him to go closer. She was cooking her chicken stew.

After Maria finished cleaning his cheek, Mick went with Rosa. She gave him a spoon full of stew.

"Be honest, kid."

"The best stew ever, Rosa" Mick hugged her and kissed her cheek too.

The three women were gushing over him, asking questions, fixing his hair, and giving him to try some potatoes, the first croqueta that came out of the frier.

"Wow, Mick. You are strong" Aunt Carmen said touching his arm.

"Okay, girls. This one is mine. You already chose yours a while ago" You said hugging Mick's waist. Mick laughed nervously.

The siblings.

"Yeah! And he left with someone younger!" Aunt Rosa joked and you all laughed.

"Mick! Here. Tell me how this is"

You laughed because your Mum and aunts would fuck his diet up, but he seemed just happy to be there.

You found your siblings in the backyard. Your older brother, Hector, was talking to someone on his phone. The middle kids, younger than you, were playing football. Izan was chasing Alejandro around. Little Eva, the youngest, was playing with her doll.

"Hey, Hector" You kissed his head and he looked up.

"Sis. And Mick"

You gave him a warning look.

"What?"

"Hi, Hector" Mick shook his hand and sat next to him.

"How are you doing? Races and all? Good?"

"Could be better" Mick shrugged. You leaned and kissed his cheek, leaving to say hi to your other siblings.

"We haven't seen each other since what? Three months?"

Mick swallowed hard.

"Yeah"

"Since before my sister broke up with you. If she is back with you she may have a good reason, but if you dare to hurt her..."

Mick nodded fast.

"Yeah, yeah. I understand. Yes. I won't"

"Good"

"Hector, don't scare Mick!"

They heard you.

Eva heard his name and looked up, then looked at you.

"He looks like a prince, YN" She whispered.

"Yeah?"

She nodded. "Mick is super pretty. He looks like Ken. See!"

You laughed a bit and kissed your sister's cheek.

"He is super pretty, yes"

"Hey, Mick" You heard Alejandro shout.

Soon, Mick was playing with the guys, running around and kicking the ball. Some cousins joined when they arrived.

Your dad and grandad have a little talk with Mick.

"Hey boy" Your grandad called him from the living room. He and your dad were watching TV. "Come here and watch this with us"

It was Indycar weekend, so he gladly sat with them. Grandad was on the armchair and your dad was on the sofa next to him. They offered him a beer and he knew then what was coming. He looked around but he was alone.

"Well, Mick. Things are getting serious, right?" Your dad said.

"Yes" Mick nodded and took a sip from the beer. He needed encouragement.

"What's your income?" Your dad asked dead serious and Grandad laughed a bit.

"What?"

"Yeah, I want my daughter to have a good life. A good house. She deserves it, don't you think?"

"Um. Yes. Of course sir. She will. I will give her the best life. Really. Trust me. S-She is the most important thing I have. I love her so much."

"You know what, kid?" Grandad said looking at him. "I found you really annoying when you were a kid, you know? But she could do worse so..."

"Yeah. At least he is not a football player." Your dad drank beer and looked at him.

Mick was picking the paper on the bottle beer.

"I've known him for a while, Dad. But you know... These kids..." Your Dad told Grandad.

"Yeah. These famous kids..."

Your Dad and Grandad started laughing, Mick joining nervously.

"Don't worry kid. We are joking." Your Dad patted his back.

"Yeah, just take care of our girl" Your dad said.

"I will. I love her."

"Wanna hear something?" Grandad asked Mick and he nodded. "When I met my Maria Luz I was 10 years old. I knew then that I would marry her. I was just a kid. When YN and you were little kids you reminded me of us. She was always running around saying you were her prince and saying she would marry you and..."

"She said that?"

Your dad nodded. "You married once, Kid"

"I know, I know. But... Wow"

Grandad smiled.

"I knew Maria Luz was the one. I wanted this life with her."

Mick felt his hear quickening.

"I... YN is the one. I'm sure"

Your dad hugged him and Grandad smiled from his place.

The tiresome cousin.

You heard the door and a loud laugh.

"Mum"

"I know..."

You cousin Natalia wasn't very pleasant, to say the least. She had made your mum argue with her mum and you couldn't stand her.

You sighed.

"Hi, Mick! So long no see. I'm so glad you are a part of the family now!"

"YN..." Your mum took your hand.

You shrugged and went to the living room. Natalia was sitting way to close to Mick, a hand around his shoulders.

"Mickey! Mum wants to talk to you"

Mick looked at you and let a sigh. He obviously knew Natalia. And he knew what she had done, so he was pretty uncomfortable with her.

"Yes"

"Oh, hi YN! I was talking to Mick. It's s so nice to have him around." Mick was standing next to you and Natalia reached yo touch his chest.

You felt a rush of anger and Mick took your hand.

"Yeah" You tried to fake a smile.

"I really missed you, YN."

"Um. My mum needs us"

You pulled Mick away from her and he hugged you right when you were out of sight.

"I can't believe she is here"

"It's your Grandad's birthday..."

"I know but... I hate to see her looking at you like that"

"Don't worry about it. Okay? I love you so much"

You went to kiss him, but suddenly...

"Hey, your siblings are around. No making out under my roof"

"Sorry Grandma."

That embarrassing moment with Uncle Roberto.

"And Mick, do you want a family?"

Mick shoot you a glance. You grabbed his hand under the table.

"Yes."

"Wow. That's a good guy. You have to follow the tradition!" Roberto signaled the table, full of people. Aunts, uncles, cousins...

Mick laughed nervously.

"Yeah. I-I actually want a big family, so..." He was blushing and he looked you cute. It made you so happy to see him getting on with your family.

"Oh Mick, you are lovely!" Aunt Maria was completely head over heels with Mick.

"YN and Mick will have a lot of babies and I will be an auntie" Your sister said.

You smiled and touched her cheek.

"And... Are you planning on starting soon?" Roberto asked.

Mick almost spit his drink, muttering a soft sorry and blushing like mad.

"W-well. Not really. Right? Um. She is still at uni and she has yet to get her job..."

"Oh, good good. I'm glad you respect our girl's life and all. I can buy some protection if you want to"

I gasped and Mick looked at him almost scared.

"What, Mick? Better use it!"

"Uncle!"

Mick was so nervous and embarrassed. Trying to look for help, his eyes landed on your Grandma.

"No boy. Don't look at me. I was also youn once!"

Everyone laughed at Granma's answer.

"Also, I had 7 kids!" Grandma said laughing out loud.

Mick relaxed and laughed at your Granma's joke too.

"Don't be too bad with him!" You said pointing at Roberto with a smile.

"Just teasing!"

Mick laughed too, rolling his eyes and dropping his arm around your shoulders.

"Ey! Some distance between you two!" Grandad exclaimed.

When you had Mick about the birthday, he had been scared. He knew how big your family was, he knew them. But being your boyfriend changed a lot of things. He had been scared of being rejected, but know he felt at home.

You were just happy to see him playing and joking around with your family.

[voidstilesplease]

Patrivan Drives Me Nuts, And Here's Why: Part 9

S5E6: Can't Buy My Love [prev, first]

->Because Ivan Is A Raging Patrick-sexual (And So Is His Dad)

Whew! It has been a while, hasn't it? But, well, life happened and all. But now that Season 6 comes out in less than a week, I figured I should continue this little series. Hitting two birds with one stone by rewatching the latter episodes of S5. It's starting to feel like a preparation for the next season.

Anyway, let's talk about the first third of Episode 6: THE DINNER.

But before we go to the actual dinner scene between Ivan and Cruz, let's backtrack a bit to Ivan and Ari's conversation by the dock.

So, she's crying, right? She just came to see Samu, and it didn't really go well, now, did it? But, yes, Ivan sees her and being the good lad he is, offers her his companionship. They talk about Samu and how Ari feels guilty for hurting him (ahem, cheating on him) and not having the ability to help. Ivan, being the sweet guy he is, sympathizes with Ari (even though he did actively help her cheat on her boyfriend), especially after she confirms that she loves Samu so much she won't ever want to be away from him when he gets out.

Now, Ivan supposedly likes Ari, right? But he's also an understanding, supportive, gentle person that even though the girl he 'likes' is talking about how much she loves her boyfriend, he sits through it, smiles at her, and even offers to help her get the bail money for her boyfriend from his football superstar dad.

I don't normally like editing anything with Ari in it (I can't stand her), but this one is important. I'm going to use this again as a comparison in a future post for the third part of Episode 6. But for now, just look at how darling Ivan is. "Because if you're happy, Ari, then I am too." Ahh *happy sigh* Sounds like a dream boy everyone would be gushing about to their best friend - handsome, patient, kindhearted, and puts others' feelings before his own. There's no jealousy in the way he says it at all, just compassion. And for this, I commend Ivan. (But the flip side of this? Is even better. I CAN'T WAIT TO TALK ABOUT THAT.)

Right. So onto the dinner with his dad. Cruz makes small talk, urging Ivan to share his thoughts, and Ivan obligingly admits that yes, everything is great and that he's happy with what's been going in his life at the moment.

Cruz immediately perks up at the positive response and starts poking Ivan for information. "How come? Huh? Huh?" And I bet he immediately regrets his decision when he hears what Ivan reveals next:

There's also a wonderful gifset of this scene by @andrelamoglia that you can find here and it's just *chef's kiss*

Ivan's smile recedes pretty quickly following the question "Really? Who is she?". Like, 'Oh, right. It's supposed to be a she, isn't it?'. But he soldiers on. It's the perfect opportunity to come out and confess his newly-accepted sexuality to his dad. After all, his dad is one of the cool ones, right? Who doesn't have a problem with homosexuality, and even hangs out with gay people in his parties. Surely, it won't be a big deal if his son isn't 100% straight?

Of course, Cruz doesn't have a problem with Ivan being less than 100% straight, that much is for sure. But why is his reaction much like he's horrified to be hearing this conversation at all? Well, my friends, it's because of THIS:

Because OF COURSE, it's Patrick. Cruz has connected it inside his head during Ivan's silence but he doesn't want to process it. But who else could it be? Cruz's expression is like a mix of denial, disbelief, and horror in the entirety of this confession that it's a little bit funny, but not for homophobic reasons, like some would say.

I mean, do any of you think Cruz would look progressively panicked by the second if Ivan were talking about literally any other boy apart from Patrick? I don't think so. Their table is very Patrick-charged from both father and son it's hilarious.

AND when Ivan mentions being with Patrick at home, Cruz immediately understands that it's on the same night Patrick failed to show up to his room. And he's also likely connected it to when they spoke in Las Encinas and Patrick rejected Cruz with an excuse that he wasn't in the right headspace for any further relationship (sexual or otherwise) with him, and that it was also risky for Cruz's career. He likely realized that it wasn't really because of the things Patrick said, but because he was getting it on with his son Ivan. And it's not sitting with him well for selfish reasons. It's actually a little awkward watching the scene knowing exactly why Cruz is reacting this way. Because he's kinda shitty, hugely jealous, and completely lusting after Patrick. Just - the look on his face, you know?

Can't blame him but still. The nerve of this guy to try and convince his son to focus on Ari and forget Patrick BECAUSE HE WANTS HIM FOR HIMSELF is shocking. Truly. Like holy crap level. But damn if it isn't brilliantly messy. (I've been saying this a lot, but I'll say it again. I'm not as wholly opposed to Cruz's involvement with Patrick as I am with Ari and Ivan. Just because.)

But back to Ivan and the title of this post, Ivan not only confesses that he is not as 100% heterosexual as he previously believed, but also that his attraction to males is very singular and specific. Tall, brunette, green eyes to die for, confidence bigger than Las Encinas, ass 'better than most girls', makes his world right again, fits into his life like a missing puzzle piece.

Now. I can't blame Ivan for getting upset when Cruz insists for him to go after Ari. Even though he just literally told him that she has a boyfriend. Even though the way he described his 'feelings' for Ari is a far cry from how he described his feelings for Patrick. Even though the way he said "I feel great when I'm with him" should have been a dead giveaway that there's no point pursuing Ari because she's not the one making him feel the great things.

No, I can't blame Ivan for walking out of there thinking Cruz is pushing him to Ari because he can't accept his sexuality. It is a really disappointing reaction after such a confession, yes? But we all know how Ivan's going to be even more upset when he finds out the real reason his father wants him to chase after Ari.

And let's talk about that in the next post!

(Y'all, the pink party, dude. DUDE. "You bid for him so that I wouldn't win?" OHHHH, the absolute drama. I can't wait.)

[lovingthereign25]

Never Say Goodbye

*3 weeks later* 

Co-parenting with Derek was going great! He sees Noah often as he can, he wasn't gone as long on cases as much, and was in the process of buying a two bedroom house here in Florida to be close to Noah. 

Things with Joe were great too! We were ready to start telling people about us, especially our families. We planned dinner for each of our  families first, his parents were happy about it, they understood that Joe and I loved each other.

The next night my family Josh included that he missed dinner for Joe’s side. Noah was with Derek so it was just gonna be Joe and I and I could wait to finally get this off my chest and finally be a real couple with Joe.

Dinner was done, we all sat down, all of us having a good time so far.Half way through the meal i look at Joe he gives me a small nod 

“Can i have everyone’s attention, I have an announcement..correction We have an announcement’ i say looking at Joe as he stands up.

“Joe and I are officially back together, we wanted to tell you all in person and to hear it from us “ i say smiling 

“ Together?....like dating again?..” my mother asks

“yes “ i smile 

“ What about Derek, Y/N you two just filed for divorce two weeks ago? And you're already screwing your high school boyfriend?” she asks annoyed 

“ Mom, Derek and I have been over for a long time now it's just we didn't want to admit it” i explain

“So you make it work, fix it Y/n you just don't hop into bed with an old fling, nothing against you Joe i love you like a son but this is all craziness….what about Noah?’ she asks

‘’ Noah is fine. Derek has him as we speak and takes him as often as he can nothing Joe and i do is gonna get between that’ i say 

My mother left without another word. My father not far behind her apologizing to Joe and I before letting us know he is happy for us .

After a while it was just Lyndsey,Josh,Joe and I. Josh and Joe were out sitting on the porch while Lyndsey and I cleaned up.

“Mom will come around, she loves Joe and she knows how much you two loved each other back then i think deep down we all knew nothing changed’ she smiles

“Yea…but if she didn't take the news of us getting back together well.. How is she gonna take finding out that i'm pregnant’ i say

‘What?!” she shouts

“ shhh.. I haven't told Joe yet?’ i hushed her

“ What the hell Y/n…..Who’s baby is it?’ she ask

“Joe’s” I smile looking out the window at him.

*May 2018*

Joe and I welcomed our first child together on May 5 2018

20 days before his 33rd birthday. Ryanne Lyn Anoa’i . 

She was beautiful. Jojo loved her. Noah loved her. 

She was the perfect mix of Joe and I. We were over the moon.

We were all gathered at Joe’s parents house for a parry she was throwing for Joe’s birthday/ a welcome home party for Ryanne.

Everything was back to normal and i couldn't be happier or at least i thought 

“ Can i have everyone's attention..please Y/n can you come over here for a second ?’’ Joe asked

I hand Ryanne off to Josh, her godfather..as I make my way over to the porch where Joe was.

“Y/n, i met you when you were a freshmen, i think it took me all of 30 mins into our first date to fall in love with you and i’ve been in love with you since, You're the first thing i wanna see in the morning and the only one i wanna kiss goodnight. When I'm away from you on the road I physically hurt it's like I'm drowning until I get you back  into my arms. 

I never thought i could love someone this much or love you more than i already did but you bringing our daughter into this world making our family complete took my love for you to  a whole new level..so baby with that being said Will You Marry me?’ he asks

“Of course…yes!’ i sob 

By the end of summer Joe and I were married.

[elysiumheartrp]

💚 for a coming idea that still needs development!

I am the least consistent about working on my ideas in the world but sometimes I think about a visual novel set in Newt's childhood home, Ramble's End. The plot is that he comes home to tell his parents he's getting married and his childhood friend, Monty, has a bit of a freak out. Olympus's downfall seriously hurt the town (it was a factory town where everyone worked for Olympus, and now most of them are out of jobs) and his old neighbors aren't exactly happy to see him.

Originally I was going to write it from Monty's point of view, but literally as I'm writing this I'm realizing it will be more interesting to use Newt's. (Which would be the obvious choice in the first place, but sometimes I get a little caught up in my villains, okay?) Maybe someday if I ever get my shit together he'll be the point and click adventure game protagonist he always deserved to be.

Monty and Newt grew up together. Monty's family owns the local factory and he is the reason Newt got promoted in the first place (he showed his higher ups Newt's video, which led to his transfer to the main Olympus branch and the start of the story). Monty also spent his entire life living a lie, trying to be the perfect son for his wealthy, exacting parents. He considered Newt his best friend, but wasn't great at showing it. He didn't talk to Newt much at school where other people might see, but he invited him over to his house practically every day. He was the master of mixed messages and it ended up meaning they weren't as close of friends as Monty wanted them to be.

His family took a huge hit to their personal wealth when Olympus fell, making Monty feel like he's been working so hard for the company all these years for nothing, but the thing that really sets Monty off is that Newt is getting married. He feels like he missed his chance and wasted his life and makes some questionable choices as a result.

[g-on-ef]

People like Me break Beautiful things

☾~☆~❀~☆~☽

A/N: Hello beautiful people ^^ I'm back with a new story !!! This something that I've been dying to write since I read @ladyanaconda fic, guys if you can go give her stories/art a like she deserves all the love and praise in the world !!! Anywhore this idea has been brewing in my in my head for quiet some time now ^^ basically this is an Octavia x OC story with Blitzo x Striker as well so if you don't ship Blitzo x Striker than kindly leave oh and if you love stolas also leave he's not gonna be portray in a good light at all. But anywhore be prepared for a story of love angst heartache betrayal and Striker being a bad ass ^^ now enough of my babbling on with the show ^^

Summary: Sometimes when I'm alone I Cry, Cause I am on my own. The tears I cry are bitter and warm. They flow with life but take no form I Cry because my heart is torn. I find it difficult to carry on. If I had an ear to confiding, I would cry among my treasured friend, but who do you know that stops that long, to help another carry on. The world moves fast and it would rather pass by. Then to stop and see what makes one cry, so painful and sad. And sometimes… I Cry and no one cares about why.- Tupac

Octavia never thought she would know betrayal like many of her fellow royals did, she never thought that the one she gave her heart to would be the one to crush it.

She never thought that her best friend the love of her life would be the son of the man trying to murder her father...

☾~☆~❀~☆~☽

Chapter 1: Grey

She lied, she lied to them all when she said it was okay that her dad broke their promise and she lied when she said it was okay cause he was there.

If she was honest she wanted to laugh at the hellhound when she was telling her all that bullshit about dads trying their best hell how was she supposed to take that girls word seriously when she kicked her father in the balls?

If that speech came from someone else than maybe Via would have a better chance of believing it but coming from the hellhound and felt more like bullshit.

Octavia stared at the ceiling of her room, they came home and the first thing her dad did was grab the homewrecker and took him to his room.

Never in her life has she been grateful that her room was soundproof.

Taking a deep breath Via was about to go to sleep when her phone vibrated. She turned her head and picked it up.

It was a message...from him.

A smile a real smile bloomed across her face as she opened the app.

Come to the window

Confused Octavia did what the message said. Opening her window she almost squeal in delight at the person on her balcony.

Instead she ran to open arms that encircled around her and pulled her closer to a strong chest.

The smell of the desert mixed with leather and smoke filled her nose a smell that reminded her of home. Her real home.

"What are you doing here,"

The sound of rattling filled her ears, letting her know he was happy to see her as much as she was him.

"It's simple princessa I'm here to take you to see the stars,"

"What?"

She pulled away, she was a head taller than him and she wonder aside from being an imp what else he was mixed with because from his height was a head taller than the homewrecker and average imp.

"Yeah, you always talked about wanting to see the stars in Wrath and figured since your ma isn't here and your dad is busy doing Satan knows what with Satan knows who it'll be the perfect time to go visit Wrath."

Octavia looked at him and smiled.

"Sure let's-"

"OH my BLITZY"!

Octavia and the other looked up to see Stolas' head and watched as his body moved.

"The fuck?"

Octavia on the other hand.

"Let's go," she grabbed his hand and dragged him out the castle to the outside where his motorcycle was.

She grabbed the spear helmet and waited till he sat down.

"Do I wanna know," he asked as he started the bike"

He turned to face her.

"And I don't just mean your dad getting fucked by the 'homewrecker'"

She shook her head.

"No, just please Grey, please let's get out of here,"

The imp known as Grey felt his smile drop at the look of hurt and sadness on her. His heart hurt at seeing her like this and kept his growl as well as thoughts to himself, she needed comfort not a lecture and he will gladly take her anywhere so that she will never feel hurt again.

"Alright Princesa, let's get you out of here,"

He started the bike and took her far, far away from her home which was slowly becoming her own personal hell.

☾~☆~❀~☆~☽

A/N: good ??? Bad ??? Tell me what you guys think ^^

[chaosmultiverse]

Funfacts/Important HCs About my William Aton

So since rn I can't really make bio pages I'm gonna share the important info on some of my new muses via these posts, below the cut is the info.

William came from a broken home, his mother was emotionally abusive and his father was flat out monstrous, I haven't figured out all the details but it was a mix of abuses including verbal and physical.

So William did a mix of putting up a perfect goodie two shoes son persona and extreme acts of 'rebellion', one week his teachers would be commenting on how well behaved he was to the next week where his mother found the pastor's missing dog in a shoebox under the boy's bed.

William is gay, but due to the culture of his time and his family's abuse he never became comfortable with this aspect of himself, intensely denying this part of himself, feeling intense shame over his feelings for other men and as a father was homophobic, especially towards Michael when it became clear that the boy may have been gay too. The only version of William who is actually comfortable with this aspect of himself is Glitchtrap, though outside of ghost or entites based off Henry he would have no interest in a relationship.

Like a lot of serial killers Williams first targets where animals, at first wild small animals no one miss like rats or birds but eventually he moved onto street 'pet' animals before eventually targeting people's pets. It gave him a sense of control, something that he had power over regardless of his parents, had he been taken from his parents at this point it would not have been too late for him to give up on this unhealthy coping mechanism.

But no, he was with them until he was 18, on the same very day he left. He had been still in school so simply didn't go back to the house and instead went to get ID and then rented a mortal room for the rest of high school (or may have stayed with Henry, in interactions with Henrys that knew William before he was 18.)

William went to a university for a business degree, he had always had a lot of academic skills and his anxiety over his family being able to control him using money kept him from going foe his real passions in different types of preforming or sewing.

This is another point in time he could have meet Henry, finally for the first time he had someone in his life who valued him for how he presented himself, didn't have some predetermined idea of him

Too bad that after so many years of lying to survive William just... Didn't know how to be honest, to open up or express who he truly was but hey, at the time he thought it was great. He could just choose to be whoever he wanted and Henry's affection for that persona would be great social pressure to not ruin it like how he stained his 'innocent child' persona with blood.

Yeah he was setting himself up for failure, for him to feel very alone, to continue to feel intense shame over his feelings for others and to be setting himself up to grow to resent the person he loved most.

But it still wasn't too late, it had only been animals and people who deserved it that had suffered at his hands. Had someone intervened, been able to look past his act and get him to admit there was a issue he could have became a okay person, not a monster.

This is the last option for when he meets Henry, finally thinks he can trick himself into having a happy relationship where he's a totally fake person.

They draw up the ideas for Freddy's and set to it, to make their dream come true.

William didn't let Henry wear the Springlock suits, or really do a lot of the riskier things when it came to the restaurant, the idea of Henry getting hurt was at the time very destressing to William and... He thought out of the pair he was worth less, that Freddy's would live on, Henry would live on, without him, so it was totally fine if he died trying to fulfill every role needed of him.

He may have projected a lot of himself onto Bonnie and projected Henry onto Freddy, whenever he could he always made any version of the two best friends. And when Michael made the Glamrock animatronics that was simply ingrained, no longer with the context remembered.

As a whole he was always controlling of Henry, though at first it was his putting Henry on a pedestal and self hate that motivated it.

Things got worse, especially morally when William ended up having a shotgun marriage with a woman he didn't know too well, she was a seamstress who William had tried dating after getting to know her as she was hired to help with putting together some of the suits. When she became pregnant she made it clear she didn't have the money to rise a child alone and would be shunned by her family if they found out, so William both out of a sense of obligation and wanting to do things right, fit in (after all Henry had a partner, shouldn't he? Won't it be good to be ahead of him for once?)

William was extremely emotionally negligent and controlling of her, forcing her to leave her job and rely on him for money and controlling how she would present herself, no one was to know this up and comer had married a lowly seamstress.

When Michael was born William swore to himself that he would be a better father, he did honestly love his new child, even if he didn't love the boy's mother. He failed, miserably often resorting to verbal and emotional abuse to control Micheal and physical abuse when either his emotions became to unstable or when he felt the child would be a threat to his persona otherwise.

Soon enough Henry had a children of his own, William quickly took on a uncle like role and in all honesty up until the big breaking point acted like a better parenteral figure to the twins than his own children, as he could never bring himself to abuse them them in the same ways, just deceive them.

William would often joke that someday when they were older Charile should marry one of his sons. This was very much just projection of his own desire to be with Henry

Soon enough he and his wife also had Elizabeth and Evan, after seeing how Michael was turning out William decided to be more hands on in controlling them.

He pushed Elizabeth into becoming a pageant star as a child, forcing her to take dance and acting and all of the artsy things he hadn't been allowed to as a young boy, punishing her whenever she expressed her own true intrests, despite how much he mourned her later on he never even really knew Elizabeth, due to him no one did.

He isolated Evan from the rest of the family and tried to push him into behaving how he did as a child using the Fredbear plush to give commands and try to break him (to be pit back together better), unfortunately for William Evan's stress response nor response to thinking his family hated him was the same as Williams.

But despite his treatment of his family he made them all keep up the act of being happy even around the actually happy Henry.

Then Evan died, Willi drove himself, the boy and Michael to the hospital as his wife got into a streaming match with Henry, begging for a answer to why a animatronic could even bite down (no one noticed Elizabeth, just staring at the blood.)

This is when Williams whole thing of pretending to be a whole other person thing sorta failed him as at that point he resented Henry, was so jealous and had so much hate for how happy Henry was in contrast with his miserable life that he was driven to kill.

He wanted to make Henry hurt as badly as he was, so he took one of Henry's children and then he took more childrens lives, made everyday a nightmare for the both of them as Henry would have to see other heartbroken parents and have that tragedy stain their dream.

Soon enough he did notice remetent and did decide to study it, though unlike in canon he had no goals of immortality, he was more simply curious.

But it still took Elizabeth's life, and after that it was becoming clear he was tied to the issues of Freddy's.

So he faked his death, his wife was finally free of him and did her best to care for Michael meanwhile William continued to be a issue for Henry/Freddy's.

To be continued

[midsummereve1993]

@appetite4savage @youlightmeupfinn @la-undercover-latina

A trip to grandpa's hosue and a special surprise delivered.

Warnings talks of childbirth

A/n please let me know how I am doing please, I enjoyed writing and I hope that yall like the stories I put out. I'v be sick since Saturday but i'v be working on stories to post.

August 6 2016 9:00 am

Gunner stared at his wife as she slept in the front seat and couldn't help but wondor how he got lucky, his wife was the daughter of mick mars who just so happens to be in the same band as his dad nikki sixx, he remembers when he met korbyn way back in 2008 at seventeen and they married two years later in 2009 and begin there love together. He then looked in the mirror to sew his daughter's fast asleep in the back seat and thought back to when they were babies.

Six year old sevyn ryleigh was a perfect mix of her parents with black hair like her dad and blue eyes like her mom, she just started first grade and was a delight to have. She was born a year after they had gotten married and was the best blessing they ever got, he look to the left and saw his three year old daughter Kimber rayne was a spitting image of her mamma with her fury attitude to go along with it it. She wasn't In school yet but both girls had there grandpa's wrapped around there little fingers.

He looked to his wife and look down to her stomach where there third child was nesting and he couldn’t help but smile, she was eight mouths pregnant and wasn't feeling the best but she wanted to go vist her dad so he called ahead and had his dad fly in with his stepmother and little sister ruby. They were unsure the gender of this one but he secretly wished it would be another girl.

He loved his daughter's and would love another girl but regardless he will be happy either way, "are we there yet daddy he heard and saw Kimber looking at him rubbing her eyes. "Almost sweetheart he said before his eyes caught his wife who was shifting around and moaning as she did, "you ok baby he said placing his hand on her stomach and felt her muscles tighten underneath his hand.

"Your stomach is tight he said as she breath through a braxton hicks, "I know and there's dumb braxton hicks contractions are a pain in the ass she said shifting around again. She could feel her son or daughter had dropped because her head was nested right on her birth canel making her hiss as she felt the baby move. "Here we are now gunner said pulling up and saw his dad standing outside and wave as they pulled up. Gunner got out and let the girls out before heading to his wife side and helped her out.

"Grandpa nikki the girls said running into there grandpa arms making him laugh as he give them kisses and hugs, "girls why don't you go see grandpa mick he's inside he said and watched both girls eyes light up and rushed inside yelling mick name. He looked to his daughter-in-law and saw the pain on her face. "Hi sweetie you look like your in pain he said hugging the girl and felt how tight her body was, "I'm good just hurting she said giving him a hug and walked inside before he turned back to his son.

"The Past couple of days she be having braxton hicks contractions and both of the girls has be acting up especially Kimber gunner said as he walked with dad into the living room. Meanwhile mick was laughing at something kimber said before he heard a moan and turned to see his daughter with her hand on the wall and her stomach making him gently get up and walked over to her rubbing her back once he got to her.

"Just breath honey he said helping to relax and saw her face change when the braxton hicks went away, "I'm good now dad she said as she give him a hug. Mick was worried for his daughter especially since gunner was working a lot and he worried about her being at home with the kids along. "You sure baby because you don't seem like it he said as she nodded her head, "yes sir it just a braxton hicks she said as she walked up the stairs as mick watched her go.

August 6 2022 12:00 pm

Three hours bad passed since they arrived at her dad house and korbyn was in the bathtub soaking her body in the warm water hoping to ease the braxton hicks contraction that gripped her stomach, she prayed she wasn't in labor because they were not ready at all and needed more time. "Owww she his as another contraction come across her stomach making her freeze in panic, "ok baby just hand on let me get out and get daddy she said as she climbed out before loseing her balanced and falling to the ground screaming as she felt a strong contractions hit her.

Gunner was downstairs taking with his dad and father-in-law law when he heard his wife scream making him drop his cup and raced up the stairs to the bathroom bursting in and seeing his wife on the floor and he dropped to the floor beside her, "gunner please make it stop make it stop she said as she screamed again as another contraction hit her forcing gunner to rubbed her back as she got on all fours.

"Breath sweetie just breath he said turning toward the door to yell for his dad to call 911 before turning back to his wife, downstairs mick called 911 while nikki rushed up the stairs and saw his daughter-in-law on all fours breathing heavily. "Just keep breathing he said comming over and geting on his knees to help gunner keep her calm, "oooooooooo gunner i gonna push so bad she said making gunner freeze. "Hang on let's get you to the... "No gunner we ain't gonna make it our son or daughter isn't waiting she said as she curl down to push into the contraction.

"Perfect do what you body tells you to do nikki said helping to placed her on her butt with her legs wide open and gunner in between them, "oh honey I see the head gunner said placing his hands on the head as it appeared. "It hurts she said moaning as another contraction hit and she curled into it, "perfect just like that nikki said watching his grandchildren inch farther and farther into the world making him rub his daughters-in-law arms.

"Just a couple more and your baby will be here nikki said not worrying about the situation at hand, with his first two grandchildren he wasn't there nor was mick but seemed his youngest grandchildren wanted to appear early, "ok baby just one big push and the head will be out gunner said as his wife curled into herself and pushed before screaming as the head poped free making her jump back in relief.

"Head is out baby the head is out he said cleaning the airway of the baby, he couldn't belive his son or daughter was being delivered by him and his dad, "ooooo here it comes again korbyn says as she curls into the contraction qnd begins to push before screaming as the baby come out and into gunner hands leting out a loud cry.

"Our baby is here gunner said placing the baby on his wife chest and watched the women break down into tears at the slight of there baby, "Hi sweetheart I know she said rubbing the baby back before looking to her husband. We have to see what they are she said as her husband looked between the baby legs and what he saw made him break down, "we have another daughter he said bursting into tears at the slight of his newborn daughter in his wife arms.

August 6 2022 2:00 am

After being checked out and placed in the guest bedroom gunner and korbyn were looking at there new daughter and trying to decide on a name to fit her, "what about the first name we talked about if we had a girl korbyn said as she saw nikki face light up like a Christmas tree as he bent down and give her a kiss. "I think that is a beautiful choice he said as she heard a knock on the door and saw his dad and mick along with the girls.

"Daddy kimber said running over to Him as he picked her up and give her a kiss and then did the same thing to sevyn, "Hi girls are you ready to see your new sibing nikki said puting both girls down and lead them to where there mom was. "Girls meet your new sister nikki said watching as the girls faces light up like a Christmas tree, "we have a sister kimber said clapping happy and sevyn also smiled real big.

"Another Granddaughter hun sweetheart mick said with tears in his eyes, he loved all his grandchildren from all his children but right now in this moment he couldn't help but let tears fall down his face. "Mick want to hold your new Granddaughter nikki said placing the baby girl into his arms after he had sit down and watched the man face lit up, "Hi honey welcome to the family mick said as the baby opened her eyes and looked at em. "Nikki your turn mick said as he give the baby to Nikki and watched as Nikko cried.

Nikki and mick were a man of few words but holding their new grandbaby brought out something in the guys that filled both gunner and korbyn eyes. "So yall are probably wanting to know her name so please give a warm welcome to Navi Rome sixx gunner said and watched both men eyes become wet again, "we decided the name after both our mothers who isn't here anymore but watching from above.

From that day on gunner aways thanked his blessings for his three beautiful daughters and three years later they welcome there first son Jackson ryatt who was the missing light to there family.

[helloalycia]

The Wrong Lifetime – One // Wanda Maximoff

story masterlist | main masterlist | wattpad | chapter two

author’s note: here’s the long-awaited first chapter! i do hope you all enjoy!

Also a quick one – Y/B/N = your brother’s name, Y/M/N = your mother’s name and Y/D/N = your dad’s name

"You move anymore and you're gonna hit a waiter."

I gave my brother a disapproving look as he grinned at my dismay. "Easy for you to say. You're wearing a suit and not a dress that's heavier than your body."

He wrapped an arm around my shoulder and squeezed it gently. "Y/N, you complain too much. Look where we are! You need to learn to enjoy yourself."

Taking a look around the room, I saw a hall filled with people I didn't know mingling with one another. Flutes of champagne were on almost every hand and laughter filled the air as everybody enjoyed their evening, soaking in the luxuries of a ball somebody I didn't know was hosting. Orchestral music was drowned out by conversations and servers moved through the hall like mice, scuttling around and constantly topping up champagne. I wasn't a fan, as usual.

"Are you both ready? Your father is bringing the Maximoffs here any second," my mother's voice grabbed my attention. "Y/N, at least try to look happy to be here." 

I forced a smile, making her give me a knowing look before looking to my brother and fixing his tie.

"You both know how important this is," she told us for the millionth time, fussing over my brother's appearance. "They're expecting–"

"Well-behaved, respectful individuals," I finished for her. "We know, mum. You've told us only a gazillion times."

She pressed her lips together, hands on her hips as her eyes fell to me, displeased. "If this engagement is to go as planned, I need you on your best behaviour."

"I'm always on my best behaviour," I reassured her. "But okay. I'll lighten up."

"Thank you," she said with a grateful smile, before glancing over her shoulder. "Okay. Here they come. Smiles, please."

My brother looked to me, showing me his teeth. "Is there anything in my teeth?"

I cracked a smile to make myself feel better. "Gums."

He gave me a disappointed look. "You know men don't like women who are smart arses." 

I rolled my eyes at his comment, knowing men didn't like women who didn't like men. But, of course, I didn't say that.

All her and my dad had been talking about for the past few weeks was this engagement. My brother, a very successful author, was to be engaged to his publisher's twin sister, some girl called Wanda. The Maximoffs were an esteemed family and their unification with ours was in everyone's best interests, especially my brother's who was one of the most eligible bachelors in the city.

I didn't know much about the Maximoffs, only that their son and my brother's 'boss', if you will, Pietro, ran a successful publishing house. It had been in their family name since their parents emigrated to England from Sokovia when Pietro and Wanda were children. They'd built themselves up from nothing and were now high members of society, the perfect family to be involved with.

Y/B/N was to be engaged to Wanda, their daughter, since she was getting to that age where they wanted to find someone for her. My brother's name was put into the mix when Pietro recommended him and the rest was history.

Tonight was the first unofficial meeting with them and my mother had been nonstop lecturing me on the dos and don't's of how to act, as if I was a child that couldn’t behave. Of course, it was only a mere greeting. The true engagement was to be proposed tomorrow night, but that didn't matter to my fussy mother who was insistent on making a good impression.

I found myself straightening up and pressing my hands down my dress to rid it of creases as my brother adjusted his blazer. The Maximoffs were being led our way by my father, the four of them all with smiles on their lips and flutes of champagne in their hands.

"Dear, I would like to introduce you to Mr and Mrs Maximoff and their lovely children, Pietro and Wanda," my dad introduced, stopping before us, before looking to the Maximoffs. "This is my family. My wife, Y/M/N, and my children, Y/N and Y/B/N."

"Please, call me Oleg and my wife Iryna," the twins' father, Oleg, said with a kind smile. He held out his hand to my mother, adding, "It's a pleasure, Y/M/N."

They shook hands and then looked to my brother and I, exchanging quick greetings with us. As they were saying something to my brother, probably gushing over his writing as everyone did, I took a look at the quiet twins behind them.

I vaguely recognised the guy and his striking silver hair from my brother's work, knowing he was Pietro. But I'd never seen the girl before and knew immediately that if I had, I wouldn't forget her face. She was stunning, it didn't take a genius to see that. But not the stunning that you glanced once at and forgot about. No, she was the stunning that knocked the breath out of you and made you forget what your name was.

"...lovely to meet you again!" my brother was saying all the right things to impress his soon-to-be in-laws, but it went over me as I found myself unable to tear my gaze from this mystery woman.

Further introductions went on in the background, before the green eyes I was so enthralled with were looking my way, making me blink suddenly. I instantly looked away, afraid I'd been caught, and zoned back into the conversation that was taking place.

"It's great to finally put a name to a face," the girl, Wanda, was saying to my brother with a honey sweet smile and sultry Russian-accented voice, and judging by his expression, he was just as caught up in her beauty as I was. "I look forward to getting to know you more."

"And I you," he returned with his signature grin.

Her eyes fell to mine once again, lips curving into an amused smile. "And of course, Y/B/N's beautiful sister, Y/N. How lucky a man he must be to have a sister as stunning as you."

The others chuckled, clearly taken by Wanda's smooth way with words. In their eyes, it was flattery at its finest. After all, she was to be welcomed into our family and sucking up to the sister was the best way forward. But I guess, I'd like to believe that there was some truth to her words as her entrancing green eyes sparkled with delight.

"You don't need to win over my sister to get on my good side," Y/B/N joked before I could speak, stealing Wanda's attention away momentarily.

She suppressed a laugh, tilting her head as she studied him with an unreadable expression, before looking to me with curious eyes.

"Thank you for your kind words, Wanda," I finally said to her, offering a small smile.

"Anytime," she quipped, biting her lip to contain her smile.

It was oh so wrong of me to even slightly check her out as she did, knowing that it was not only inappropriate since she was to be my brother's bride, but also wrong since she was a girl and I wasn't supposed to do this. A heat crept up neck as I avoided her teasing gaze, wondering if she knew what she was doing or if she was just a naturally flirty person.

"I'm Pietro," her brother spoke, making me look up again. He was directing a charming smile my way as he continued, "It's an honour to finally meet my best author's younger sister."

I put out my hand for him to shake, but he simply grabbed it and pressed a gentle kiss to the top. I flushed at the contact, a nervous smile on my lips.

"Er, it's nice to meet you, too, Pietro," I returned, subtly wiping my hand when he let go of it.

The twins stood side by side, smiling our way, and I realised just why all the chatter in our social circles revolved around them. Charming, distinguished, good-looking – they were the whole package.

Our parents continued to talk, catching up and talking about stuff I didn't care much for. Every now and then, Y/B/N would chime in if a question was directed his way, or Pietro would add his two cents, or Wanda would say something funny, and I would pretend to get along with all of them when I so desperately wished to go home and go to sleep.

Admittedly, my eyes veered over to my soon-to-be sister-in-law every now and then, unable to look away. She was drop dead gorgeous, with bright hazel eyes that looked green like the earth at this moment, and long brown hair that was pulled back out of her face, revealing her charming smile. Sometimes, when she would smile really widely, a dimple would expose itself on her left cheek at the corner of her mouth, and I was sure that nothing else was cuter than that. Y/B/N was one lucky man.

"...would love for you all to come to our home tomorrow evening for dinner," my father was inviting them all over, bringing me back to reality. "It'll be a great way to get to know each other in a more intimate setting. And it'll give the kids a better chance to get to know each other."

Iryna smiled brightly. "We would love to, Y/D/N. Tomorrow evening is great."

"Perfect," my mum said excitedly. "We'll see you all then."

"Do enjoy the rest of your evening," Oleg said, looking to us all, before looking to my brother. "And Y/B/N, it was good to meet you tonight. I look forward to seeing you again tomorrow."

"You, too, sir," Y/B/N said, shaking his hand with a smile. "I'll see you tomorrow."

Oleg and Iryna gave us all a smile before turning to leave. Pietro and Wanda did the same, though when Wanda's eyes flickered to mine, she waved her fingers slowly and with a playful smile on her lips. My mouth opened slightly, unsure what to do or say, but nobody seemed to notice as she turned and left, leaving me standing there with confusion.

"Well, I think that went well," my mum said, and I tore my gaze from Wanda's retreating form. "Couldn't have gone better actually."

"I agree," my dad said, wrapping an arm around my mum's waist with a smile. "Tomorrow night will be splendid." He looked to Y/B/N. "What did you think of Wanda, son?"

Y/B/N looked like he was on top of the world with his love struck smile and relaxed posture. "She's beautiful. And did you hear that accent? Wonderful."

My mother chuckled. "How sweet. You're already smitten."

"What did you think of her, Y/N?" my brother asked, and all eyes fell to me.

I straightened up. "Oh, I– er– she's very nice. A beautiful young woman."

"Right?" he said in agreement. "I feel like she really likes you, too. How cool is that? You guys can become friends and be, like, close sister-in-laws."

I forced a small smile. "Yeah. Something like that."

Of course, for everyone's benefit, getting along with Wanda Maximoff was the best bet. But something about her was different and I was yet to discover what.

—

The following evening was when we saw the Maximoffs next. As invited, they turned up at our front door dressed less glamorously than last night, given the occasion, but appearing just as excited. Our servants were quick to take their jackets and hang them up elsewhere as we exchanged greetings in the hall.

The Maximoff parents were genuinely kind and humbling people to be around, I'd come to learn that when they thanked our servants for their help and asked them how their day was, making friendly chatter. Not many people did that when entering our home – it was certainly refreshing to see. They greeted Y/B/N and I kindly before moving onto our parents.

The Maximoff children were just as kind, though with a hint of mischief in their stride as they moved to greet my brother and I. Pietro approached me first, lips pulling into a smile as he bowed playfully. In the corner of my eye, I could see Wanda and Y/B/N exchanging greetings.

"It's a pleasure to be in your presence yet again, Y/N," Pietro said generously. "You look lovely this evening."

A smile appeared on my lips at his kind eyes. "Thank you, Pietro. You look very handsome this evening also."

"Apparently it's lamb for dinner, is that true?" he asked, taking me by surprise. I wasn't sure if he was serious, but when his sister slapped him on the arm, I figured he was.

"Don't be greedy, Piet," she scolded him like this was a regular thing.

"What? It was a simple question," he said with a shrug, before looking to my brother with a grin. "Ah, Y/B/N Y/L/N, my favourite writer."

As he moved over to greet him, Wanda looked over to me with a knowing smile.

"It's good to see you again," she said softly, maintaining eye contact.

"You, too," I played along with whatever was happening, the usual script at a time like this. "I'm sure tonight will be something special for you and my brother. It's good to have you here."

She tilted her head intimidatingly. "Bol'shoye tebe spasibo."

I raised my eyebrows, intrigued by her ability to change languages so smoothly. Though, it made sense since she was Sokovian, making Russian her first language. Didn't make it any easier to not be attracted to though.

"I'm sorry," I apologised. disguising my attraction with genuine confusion. "What does that mean?"

She smiled, a hint of smugness present as she answered, "Thank you very much. That's what it means."

I pressed my lips together, humming in response. She held my gaze for a second longer than usual and I wanted to look away, but I was drawn in by the beautiful golden flecks swirled into her irises, captivating and chilling all at once. She didn't seem uncomfortable with the eye contact, instead revelling in it with a content smirk when she saw me squirm. I ended up looking away first, unable to hold a pretty girl's gaze for more than a few seconds without panicking.

"I have something to show you!" my brother was saying excitedly to Pietro. "It's in my study, c'mon."

The two of them wandered off before my mum could stop them.

"Don't be too long, boys!" she called after them, before sighing and looking to Wanda and I. "Y/N, dear, why don't you show Wanda around upstairs, maybe? Hopefully the boys should be back after that and we can all eat dinner together."

I swallowed hard, glancing at a still-smirking Wanda, before looking back to my mum. "Erm, are you sure?"

"Yes, yes, go on, it'll give you ladies a chance to get to know each other better!" she insisted, before ushering me away. "Don't take too long though. Dinner will be ready soon."

Licking my lips nervously, I nodded, watching my mum return to the conversation my dad and Wanda's parents were having. They were led into the living room as Wanda and I were left standing in the hall, her waiting for me to say something.

"This way, I guess," I got out awkwardly, purposely avoiding her eyes as I motioned to the grand staircase.

"After you," she said politely, and I said nothing as I took the lead.

I ended up showing her around the upstairs rooms, including the library we had and the many guest rooms. It was a big home with lots to show for it, so the tour wasn't too boring.

Wanda stayed quiet throughout it, sometimes dropping in a comment or question every now and then, but otherwise listening intently as I explained everything as interestingly as I could. When she did speak, she would leave me fumbling for words or forgetting how to speak altogether. I wondered if she was teasing me on purpose, wanting to get a rise out of her soon-to-be sister-in-law, or if she just wasn't aware of what she was doing.

But every time her mischievous gaze fell to me with a matching smile, I knew that she had to be aware of her actions. Nobody was that teasing without wanting to be. So, that led me to my next question. Why?

Eventually, the last room on the tour was my bedroom. I stepped inside first, holding the door open for her as she followed after and looked around with amusement.

"This is your room," she stated, feet taking her further inside as she took in the appearance of my desk, my bed and my wardrobe. "Fascinating."

I was curious to know what she meant by that, but realising that this woman was an enigma in more ways than one, I knew she wouldn't give me a straight answer. So, I said nothing as I followed after her, remaining close as she soaked in my belongings.

Stopping at my desk, her eyes gazed over the papers spilling from closed notebooks, books marked with string and pens littered across the wood. Thankfully, nothing was open and she didn't seem to be the nosy type, so had no intention of going through anything.

"I see you like writing," she noticed, fingers hovering above the notebooks but not quite making a move to touch them. "Runs in the family, doesn't it?"

"I guess," I said, unsure what she wanted to hear.

She looked up at me, smile tugging at her lips. The same damned smile that had been directed at me since she got here.

"Do you write like your brother?"

I tried not to laugh. "More like he writes like me."

She watched me closely, amusement dancing in her eyes. "He's the author in the family."

I mirrored her smile, though mine was fake. "Published author, love. Doesn't make him the only one."

A chuckle flew from her lips as she looked across my messy desk again, clearly not offended by the hint of annoyance in my voice. I shouldn't have been so offended by her words – she didn't know anything about me – but it always ground my gears when people stuck up for Y/B/N like he was God's gift.

"Do you write?" I asked, half interested and half wanting to change the subject. The least I could do was try to get to know her a little better.

"I prefer painting," she answered without mischief. "It's my favourite thing to do."

Her eyes lit up at the mere mention of art, but she did a good job at reigning it in. She was still studying the books on my desk, distracting herself with the spines instead of facing me.

"And what do you like to paint?" I asked, genuinely interested now that I was beginning to see her actually fond of something that didn't involve making me flustered.

She shrugged, but I knew it was a pretence. "Scenery. Landscapes. We have a beautiful garden at home and it's a pleasure to paint." She finally met my eyes again, a smile of adoration on her lips as she continued talking about the garden. "The flowers, the trees, the little pond we have. It's the perfect subject."

The smile that appeared on my lips was automatic as her passion for her hobby was contagious. The way her whole face lit up, eyes bright with excitement and lips unable to do anything but smile, was intoxicating and I tried not to get lost in the moment. It was true though, what people said. Nobody looked more beautiful than when talking about something they loved.

"I’d love to see your work sometime," I told her earnestly.

Playfulness returning, she hummed in agreement. "Only if I can see yours."

I laughed, looking down at my shoes. "Maybe not."

"Well, that's a shame," she said, still playful, though when I looked up, I almost believed her.

She did that thing again, where she stared at me and held my gaze as if reading my innermost private thoughts. Intimidating wasn't the word, yet it was the only one in my mind as I watched her attempt to decipher me. Clearing my throat, I looked away, suddenly aware of how close she was stood.

"So, my brother," I changed the subject yet again, noticing the entertained expression she wore. "You like him?"

"We are to be engaged, are we not?" she asked with a quirked brow, like the answer was obvious.

I hid the smile from my lips. "That's not what I asked, love."

She licked her lips, pursing them as she saw what I was trying to do. My eyes were immediately drawn to her mouth as she did, and I almost forgot to look away until she started speaking again.

"My parents arranged this," she admitted, not losing composure. "Y/B/N is a gentleman and he seems like a kind man."

I noticed how she still avoided answering the question, but decided not to say anything about it. My eyes studied her curiously though, wondering why exactly she'd agreed to the marriage then. Maybe it was a sense of duty, like every woman had nowadays. Eventually my time would come too and maybe I would be stuck in the same position as her.

"I adore his writing though," she added, like she needed to say something genuine to make up for her lack of answer.

"You and every other woman in the city," I mumbled knowingly.

Wanda let out a breathy laugh. "I'm aware of his many admirers, yes, but can you blame them? He has such a fantastic way with words. And don't get me started on that first piece he ever wrote..." Her eyes rolled back with satisfaction. "It's my favourite. I had no idea who he was back then, but the words he wrote were enough to make me fall in love. I guess it's convenient that my new husband is to be your brother, the author."

I crossed my arms as I leaned against the desk, trying not to break out into laughter. Not because of Wanda's words – they were actually quite sweet – but because of the whole situation. It was hilarious to me, since I was the reason Y/B/N got his big break as a writer anyway.

Following in our father's footsteps, Y/B/N wrote manuscript after manuscript with hopes of getting published. But unfortunately, he never got anywhere with it. I was also a writer, having been taught by my father like Y/B/N when I was a young girl, but unlike him, I was told to stop when I got older because it was 'unladylike' and 'not a woman's place'. That didn't stop me however, and I continued to write like no tomorrow.

Y/B/N's big break, and the first manuscript of his that got published by Pietro – ironically the one that Wanda was discussing right now – was written by me. I gave it to my brother, hoping he could get inspiration. He ended up sending that in and getting signed because of my work. And even now, I occasionally helped him work on pieces that otherwise wouldn't see the light of day.

But nobody wanted to hear about the young, unmarried woman who writes about other women like they are God's best creation. So, Y/B/N keeps the fame and credit whilst I write in private, unable to share any of my work with the world unless it's in excerpts of my brother's books with his name on the front cover.

"That first piece was pretty good, wasn't it?" I played along with Wanda's words, a hint of bitterness in my tone of voice.

Wanda studied me up and down, teasing smile tugging at her lips. "Jealousy doesn't look good on you, milaya."

I hummed in acknowledgement, feigning a smile in response, though I wasn't sure what that last word meant. Probably another Russian term she was using to throw me off. Of course she'd assume I was jealous of my brother's recognition. She didn't know the truth and she never could. She was also to marry my brother, the perfect author, soon; my bitter state was merely a jealous sibling and maybe it was easier to let her think that way.

"Dinner should be ready now," I told her, straightening up. "Let's head down."

She followed after me and I said nothing else as I led her back downstairs, trying not to think about how much of an ego-boost this dinner would be for my brother.

There was nothing better than hearing everyone gush over the work your brother took credit for that you actually did, right?

"Ah, ladies, perfect timing!" said my mum when we reached the dining room where everyone was taking their seats. "Please, sit and we can get started. It's a lovely roast from the kitchen tonight."

As I made my way to my usual seat opposite my brother, I saw Pietro fist-pump the air at the mention of the lamb roast, making Wanda roll her eyes and me smile at his action. Y//B/N took his seat and Wanda's parents seemed to take the two chairs beside him already. My parents took to each end of the table, leaving the Maximoff twins no choice but to sit beside me. I sat at the same spot as usual, at the edge of the table so my left-handed self wouldn't bother whoever was sat beside me, and take a lucky guess to who sat on my right.

"Wanda, dear, how was your tour?" my mum asked her as she got comfortable beside me, leg and shoulder almost touching mine and making me both nervous and disgruntled.

With a grin wide enough to impress my mother, she answered, "It was great. You have a beautiful home, Mrs Y/L/N. And Y/N was a lovely host."

At that last comment, I felt her eyes glance towards me and I wondered if she was having fun making me squirm because I knew for sure that I was anything but a lovely host.

"That's reassuring to hear," my mother responded as the food was brought out and placed in the centre of the table. She seemed like she was joking, but I knew she was just glad I'd been on my best behaviour. "And please, call me Y/M/N."

Wanda nodded gratefully as my dad began to cut into the roast. Food was served up and drinks were poured as everybody began to dig in. The Maximoffs sent their compliments to the chef, admired our home and were the perfect guests, just as they were expected to be. My family complimented Wanda and Pietro's manners, talked about how business was going and laughed at every joke Oleg and Iryna uttered, just as they were expected to be. It really was a picture-perfect scene and I resisted the urge to roll my eyes.

Okay, maybe I was acting a little cynical. The Maximoffs weren't that bad, at least not as bad I'd assumed they would be compared to my parents' other friends. They were down-to-Earth and humbled people, a welcoming change from the usual. I just hated forced dinners and being scrutinised under my mother's eyes to behave, hence the clipped attitude.

And just on cue, the topic steered towards something lovely.

"We can't forget to talk about Y/B/N, bestselling author over here!" Oleg beamed, motioning to my brother. "I have to admit, son, I'm amazed at your writing. You clearly have your father's talent."

My brother smiled bashfully as I watched on with narrowed eyes and a tight grip on my fork.

"You flatter me," he said, but Iryna shook her head.

"I have to agree with my husband here, Y/B/N," she said. "Your writing is superb. Pietro, obviously, loves it, and Wanda is a huge fan, too."

At this, my brother glanced towards Wanda with excited eyes and she merely smiled and looked elsewhere, either embarrassed to be mentioned or playing coy. Rolling my eyes came naturally at this point.

"Tell me, how did you think of what to write for that first book?" Iryna asked with intrigue. "It was my favourite one."

Ah, yes, the first book. Apparently everyone's favourite one.

"Oh, it's best not to bring all that up–"

"I'd actually like to know, too," Wanda cut him off, her curiosity getting the better of her as she leaned forward onto the palm of her hand and watched him under long eyelashes.

I couldn't keep the smile of delight from my face as I too leaned forward curiously, eyeing my brother. "Yes, dear, brother. Please, do tell us of how you came to write such an honest, heartfelt first book."

At this, I felt both my parents send me a warning look as they knew the truth. But neither of the Maximoffs noticed as their attention was solely on my brother.

Luckily for him, he was a great liar and he smiled his charming smile and nodded, looking between the four guests.

"I guess it started after my third failed manuscript," he began, very believably. "I realised that there was something missing from my pages. Something real and genuine. Something that would appeal to my readers and make them question just how much they were appreciating their partner, you know?"

As he rambled off into another literary spout of nonsense, my smile faded and I gritted my teeth, wondering how he'd gotten so good at lying without giving away a sliver of pretence. The Maximoffs were hanging onto his every word, fascinated by the mind of a writer. I tried not to let it get to me as he butchered the meaning behind everything I had written in that first novel. Some things were better left unsaid.

When he finished, questions were fired his way and my parents watched on with pride in their eyes, as he answered them with ease. I chose to stay quiet, as usual, letting him soak in the credit for something he didn't do.

"And what do you think, Y/N?" Wanda's voice included me in the conversation, and everybody's eyes fell to me. I was only looking at her as her lips were pulled into a wide, suggestive smile and she continued, "How is it being the sister of one of today's bestselling authors?"

The usual forced smile that accompanied my lips whenever talking about Y/B/N because present, but my eyes were questioning Wanda's as she was clearly trying to get a rise out of me yet again, especially now that she assumed I was jealous of her husband-to-be's fame. Her stupid beautiful smile and stupid pretty eyes and stupid attractive accent were all taunting me.

"It makes me proud to know that he's come so far from when we were younger," I said, and though I was irritated by the way it had happened, my words weren't entirely false. "He's a talented man and he clearly has a way with words. What more is there to say?"

The elders seemed touched by my words and when I looked over the table to meet my brother's gaze, I saw the gratitude in his expression, hiding behind his smile and reserved for me. I nodded subtly, letting him know I was happy to keep his secret as long as he wished, just like we'd agreed.

Chatter and compliments soon turned to the real reason for our presence – the engagement. I tucked into my dessert as I let them talk about dates for the engagement party, logistics for guests and all the other details I could care less about. Only when my brother mentioned my name did I look up, surprised to see all eyes on me yet again.

"I'm sorry, what was that?" I asked politely, glancing around.

"Y/N, honey, lay off the chocolate cake, will you?" my mum said with a smile that I knew was code for 'put the bloody fork down'.

I forced a smile of my own as I lowered my fork and sat up straight, very ladylike, and looked to my brother.

"I was saying how I'll be sure to pick a beautiful engagement ring for Wanda here," he no-doubt repeated for my sake. "And maybe you could help me choose, to make sure it's something she may like."

A genuine sarcastic smile broke out on my lips, though not because I was interested in ring shopping with my brother. I knew absolutely nothing about dear Wanda or her taste in jewellery, but a woman was to do what she was best at – shopping! So, without sharing my true thoughts on the situation, I nodded respectfully and hummed in agreement.

"Of course," I said what everybody wanted to hear. "I'm sure we can find something to suit Wanda's taste."

Everybody resumed chatter about the wedding as I sighed quietly and got back to my cake. My right hand rested by my side and I jumped, startled when I made contact with Wanda's fingers.

"Sorry," I apologised, moving my hand a little from hers but keeping it there. "Left-handed an' all. I tend to forget."

Green eyes pierced through me with a matching sly smile. "No problem, milaya."

Again with the 'milaya' talk – what did that even mean? I returned the awkward smile as I continued eating, but I didn't fail to notice the way her hand would brush against mine throughout the rest of the meal.

Either by accident or on purpose, I'd never know, but I had my suspicions.