#its already not worked with ruby twice

[iloveboysinred]

I won't say I'm in love [Prince Zuko]

pg. 13, fluff | Zuko x gn! reader

synopsis; Zuko had never been one to express himself in the right ways, anger had always been his primary emotion. But, when he meets you, a rouge fire bender helping the Avatar, it becomes hard for him to accept the growing warmth in his chest every time you look at him.

cw; emotionally constipated Zuko, fluff, pining, Clueless Zuko, Zuko doesn’t know how to deal with feelings, awkward turtleduck, light fluff.

Masterlist

Zuko never had time to really sit and think about relationships. After spending his early teenage years on a wild goose chase hunting the avatar, and now having joined the Gaang, with only a week to teach Aang how to firebend so he could face Ozai, he had a lot going on.

However, when he had started to fit in with the gaang better, you had definitely caught his attention.

You were a firebender yourself, highly skilled and light on your feet. You made a formidable opponent in battle, your elegance and lightweight movements almost resembling an air-bender. Zuko couldn’t help but stare as you practiced basic maneuvers, your muscles flexing with every movement, the thin sheen of sweat on your brow, and the fierce look of concentration on your beautiful face. To say Zuko was whipped was an understatement.

You were the last to accept him into the group, having always been a bit of a loner and standoffish, you didnt trust him. Especially with him being the crown prince of the very nation that has caused you nothing but pain. So Zuko worked extra hard to earn your friendship. Doing good deeds like helping Sokka clean up camp, going on water collecting trips with Kitara, helping Toph with her hair, and of course, befriending Aang and teaching him firebending alongside you.

While Zuko was still miles away from getting close to you, he was running out of ideas on how to gain your approval. So, naturally he went to Sokka for advice.

“Its like no matter what i do, y/n still hates me! I dont get it, you guys all like me, you know i’m good now. So whats their problem?” Sokka looked over Zuko’s exasperated face, putting two and two together. Not that it was hard, everyone caught him staring at you like a creep once or twice already. “I dont think y/n hates you, honestly. Thats just the way they are. It took like, 2 months for them to really open up to us.” Sokka shrugged, smoothing his hair down. “If i’m being honest, you’re trying too hard. Seems like you got a thing for them.” Zuko gaped, staring at Sokka like he had grown another head. “What are you talking about!? I dont like them. I just want them to trust me!” But despite his words, the flush on his face betrayed his denial. Sokka raised his eyebrows. “Right. Okay. Why don’t you just talk to them? I mean, obviously what youre doing isnt working. Maybe you should get them a gift or something.” Zuko nodded to himself. Why hadn’t he thought of that before? He quickly stood up, a new objective in mind.

“Thanks Sokka.”

“Anytime, bro. And a word of advice, if you’re trying to make it less obvious that you like them, try not staring so hard. It creeps everyone out.”

“I TOLD YOU I DONT!”

“Yeah, yeah whatever. Get out before you burn my tent down.”

Zuko rolled his eyes, storming off with a deep flush on his cheeks.

The next morning he set out to the village nearby, wearing a cloak to disguise his face. He looked around the market, stopping by a jeweler, who had a whole array of different bracelets, necklaces, and rings. A peculiar necklace stood out to him. It held a beautiful ruby, plated in gold and held on to a thin, gold chain. Before anybody could see, he snatched it up, quickly leaving and heading back to the air temple before anybody could confront him. On the way back he stopped by a patch of fire-Lillies, picking a few to make a messy bouquet. “Y/n will like these.” He muttered to himself, trying to tie them together with an old piece of twine.

When he made his way back to camp, the others stared at him with questioning glances, momo crawling up to sniff at the flowers. “Whats with the flowers? You into gardening or something?” Sokka asked, eyeing the bright fire-lillies in his grasp. “I got these for Y/n” Zuko blushed as he realized how this looked, averting his eyes from Sokka’s teasing gaze. “Aww thats sweet, Zuko. Who knew you were such a softie.” Kitara cooed, fluttering her lashes in a mock swoon. Zuko gritted his teeth, cheeks burning hotter than the sun. “Yeah, maybe you’ll man up and confess. We all know you like them” Toph chided, smirking. “I don’t!” Zuko protested. “You’re lyinggg” Toph hummed, and Zuko cursed her abilities to see with her feet.

“Whats going on?” Zuko froze when he heard your voice, quickly turning towards you, hiding the bouquet behind his back. “Oh nothing, just teasing Zuko about his undying lo-“ Sokka was abruptly cut off by Zuko slapping his hand over his mouth, glaring at him. “What Sokka was trying to say is, we were teasing Zuko’s undying and super obvious crush on you.” Toph stated nonchalantly. The others snickered at Zuko’s panicked expression, his cheeks couldn’t have gotten hotter, wide eyes turned to you. “I dont know what they’re talking about! I don’t have a crush on you! They’re just trying to be funny i swear-“ “uh, Zuko-“ “I just want you to trust me, so i got you these flowers-“ he pulled the bouquet from behind him, presenting it to you. But what he didn’t realize was, he had accidentally set the lilies on fire. He gasped and dropped the bouquet, stomping on the charred flowers to put the fire out. You just gave him a blank look, the others snickering behind you. Zuko had never felt so embarrassed in his life.

“Wow Zuko, that sure was a good way to confess!” Kitara teased, watching as you just threw your hands up, being completely done with… whatever that was, and walking away to your tent. “Yeah Zuko. Maybe try not almost burning the camp down. I think Y/n will like it better if you just told them how you feel!” Aang chirped, just irritating Zuko more with his upbeat attitude. “Whatever, you guys are impossible” he snapped, storming off in a random direction. “And I told you i don’t like them!” Once he was out of earshot, Toph snickered, laying on her back against Appa’s side. “He’s lying again.”

For the rest of the day, Zuko avoided you at all costs. Leaving you to teach Aang by yourself, even sitting a considerable distance away from you during lunch. It was confusing you, but you didn’t say anything. You guessed he was still embarrassed from the spectacle he had made of himself that morning. You couldn’t help but smile to yourself. Zuko was sweet, and if what the others are saying is true, you couldn’t deny that you could start feeling something for him too. You’d observed him ever since he joined the group, and his surprisingly gentle heart had impressed you. You’d watched him teach Aang during your training sessions. Appreciating the way his body moved flawlessly, his dark hair bringing out the gold in his eyes. You had to admit, you weren’t complaining when he would show up to your lessons shirtless. There was no denying he was cute.

So, you decided to approach him, surprising even yourself. You waited for everyone to settle into their tents, then you made your way to his. You stood outside for a second, thinking about how you were going to start this, what you would say. But your thoughts blanked when Zuko crawled out of his tent, now face to face with you. “O-oh hi- Zuko- i, um” you stuttered, lost for words. His eyes widened at the sight of you, sputtering like a nervous wreck. “I just wanted to u-um say, t-that i think the flowers were beautiful and u-um that was very sweet of you” “o-oh” you stood in awkward silence, the ground suddenly very interesting. “Anyways i think i’m gonna go-“ “wait, i-i um, i got you this too.” He quickly handed you the necklace, eyes averting yours and a deep blush on his cheeks. You looked the piece of jewelry over, smiling at him. “It’s beautiful Zuko. Um, thank you?” “You’re uh, you’re welcome..” you don’t know what took over you, but you leaned forward pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. You stared at each other in shock, now it was your turn to blush, face as red as a tomato. “Uh well, its getting late- i’m gonna go back to my tent. G-goodnight” the words came out quicker than you could think, racing off back to your tent. Leaving Zuko standing there, hand on his cheek, feeling how warm the skin was under his palm. His brain short circuited and his heart was beating 400 miles per minute, he swore he was gonna pass out.

Hope you enjoyed :> notes and reblogs are appreciated, comments, asks, and requests are welcomed! 💗

part 2

[samthestrangerthingsfan]

Pairing: Eddie Munson x Reader

Summary: frienemies-to-lovers, kinda mean!Eddie? shy!reader, swearing, a lil smoochin', mentions of lack of confidence and poor self image, cute nicknames

a/n: hi bb, will you be my valentine? I don't love writing mean!eddie but its okay because we can always fix him :)

Valentine’s Day.

A day which the Hawkins High elite are positively buzzing over the plethora of cheap red and pink decorations.

Cheerleaders swoon over poorly constructed cards from their popular boyfriends, while dozens of obnoxious mylar balloons take up way too much space in the already crowded hallways.

Beyond the 14th of February, the reason for all the excitement was the annual Hawkins High Valentine’s Day dance—of which you were head of the committee.

Was it because you were the only Senior to volunteer their time to coordinating it instead of attending it? Maybe, but at least it gave you a reason to show up to the dance without a date.

...and avoid looking like the pitiful wallflower you are.

You also knew you’d have no time to rush home and get ready after your last class, so here you are. Standing outside of the AV Club door, decked out in your new crushed-velvet dress. It's ruby red and dangerously short.

This was definitely out of your comfort zone. You typically preferred to be invisible. It’s easier that way; no one can hurt what they can’t see. Right?

But when this dress caught your eye in the mall shop window, it was the first time you could ever remember wanting to be seen. Wanting to try to look like the pretty girls who walk the halls everyday vying for the attention of others.

The dance gave you the perfect excuse. Sure, it’s not like you had a date or anyone asking you to go, but you felt so beautiful. The way the dress hugged your body made all the staring and whispering as you walked down the hallway so, so worth it.

“Hey—whoa…” Dustin’s voice dropped when he walked around the corner, arms full of equipment. “Y-you look fantastic!” He said proudly.

Dustin was your favorite Freshmen, always kind and happy to see you.

“Aw, thanks Dusty! You don’t think it’s too much?” You lifted your boot, inspecting it falsely.

Dustin smiled, “It’s too much for 6th period Spanish, but not for Valentine’s Day that’s for sure.”

He unlocked the door, and held it for you.

Dusting grabbed a pen and paper to write down what you’d need the AV Club’s help with after school.

With hands on your hips, you looked around the room. “Okay, so I definitely need the projector, and if you could set it up before—“

An annoying, loud, cocky voice cut you off. “Henderson! What the hell is takin’ you so long?”

Eddie fucking Munson.

You watched as he sauntered into the room, DIO jacket and all. He clapped Dustin on the shoulders before turning his gaze to you.

“Holy shit. That you, Mouse?”

Mouse. A nickname you loathed.

You’d made the mistake of sitting at the Hellfire table your Freshman year, and he’s never let let you live it down. Once Eddie saw just how shy you were, he made it his mission to get under your skin.

He'd plopped down into the seat next to you, assuming you were there to cause him and the guys trouble. “New girl’s trying to get in good with the freaks, hm?”

You jumped and began to frantically pack your belongings, “I-I…I didn’t know. I’m sorry, I’ll just go—"

When he realized you were nervous, he changed his tone. No longer was he on edge, but rather trying to make you laugh. Show you it's okay to give him a taste of his own medicine. “No no, little mouse. You’re not scurrying away that easily.”

Four years later, you’re both still here and Eddie’s been a thorn in your side ever since. You thought you'd be rid of him once he graduated, but he flunked--twice. Condemning you to another year full of his nonsense.

His obnoxious, overly-confident, doe-eyed nonsense.

“Munson.” You couldn’t help the eye roll. “Dustin and I are working on something so,” you flicked your hand toward the door. “Skedaddle.”

“Oof,” he teased. “You kiss your mother with that potty mouth?”

Eddie walked past Dustin, hands on his hips as he took you in. “Why, may I ask, are you dressed so fancy, princess? Hot date with a frog?”

Okay, guess we’re playing this game.

“The only frog I know is you, Munson.”

His hand flew to his heart. “You hear this, Henderson? Who knew Mouse could be such a brat?”

“If you’ll excuse me,” you attempt to sidestep him, but he blocks your path. Big brown eyes watching your every move. “Don’t you have anything better to do than push my buttons?” It’s a pitiful gripe. You know he enjoys this far too much.

“C’mon, sweetheart. If I didn’t talk to you, who the hell would?”

Ouch.

Something no doubt said in jest, but it hurt to realize just how right he was. You had tons of acquaintances, and you got along great with the teachers. As for friends, the well's a bit dry in that department.

You cleared away the tightness in you throat. “Yeah, I don’t have time for this. I’m actually contributing to society. How about you?” Your face was twisted into a sarcastic smile, attempting to hide the hurt.

Eddie on the other hand thought the two of you were simply playing your favorite game. Seeing just how flustered he could make you before you gave him a taste of his own medicine.

“Yeah, you’re a real Nancy Reagan.” He laughed, gesturing to your dress.

Your eyes honed in on him. “What the hell does that mean?”

“It means,” he reached out, sweeping a piece of hair off of your cheek. “If you wanted a little attention, you didn’t have to do all this.”

This.

Said as if the word tasted rotten. Disgusted by what you’d considered to be you at your most beautiful.

I must look like a fucking fool.

The stinging in your eyes got stronger every second you stood in his presence. Your gaze locked onto the floor, following your feet as you left. “Bye, Dustin. I’ll see you later.”

Dustin protested, calling you back before turning his disappointed glare to Eddie.

“Dude…” he chided.

Eddie scoffed, “What? Henderson I was joking—she knows that, okay? That’s our whole thing.”

"Eddie, she was crying!"

Were you? No, no way. This is what the two of you do.

"No, she wasn't." He said unconvincingly. "You don't know her like I do, little buddy. She's a good girl, loves the cat-and-mouse of it all." Eddie wasn't sure if he was trying to convince himself or Dustin.

Eddie had a fuck of a time in O'Donnell's class, and now on top of all of that, he's late to set up Hellfire.

He moved a bit quicker down the hall, easy enough since most of the school left to get ready for the Desperate Dance. He intentionally always schedules DND on nights like this, that way he'd never have to be caught dead--

Eddie's stopped in his tracks at the sight of the trashcan at the end of the hall. He spots a familiar piece of red fabric hanging out of the bin.

He pulled it like a magician, revealing more and more of the velvet clothing until its fully removed,

A dress.

Your dress.

Why the fuck did you throw it in the trash? You we're the most confident Eddie had ever seen you while you wore this thing.

...and you looked drop dead gorgeous, but that's beside the point.

He heard your voice coming from the gym, and abandoned all thoughts of DND.

Eddie burst through the double doors, ignoring the frilly pink and red decorations for the dance. He weaved between the underclassmen carefully setting up the tables and backdrops to make his way over to you.

You, who now instead of being in your beautiful fucking dress, are in you school-supplied gym uniform. Your hair was pulled back, no longer falling in the perfectly natural way you had it earlier. Your makeup was gone--Eddie didn't mind that, he didn't think you needed it anyway.

But you'd never looked so small to him.

He called your name more gently than you've ever heard him speak. When you turned and saw your dress in his grip, you wanted to disappear.

Had he come to gloat?

"Why the hell was this in the trash?" he's not smirking, or sarcastic when he says it.

"Didn't like it." It's all the pain in your throat will let you get out.

You walk away from him, hurrying to find something else to do beside stand there and be made fun of by Eddie Munson.

"Bullshit," he calls after you, quick on your heels. "You don't wear a dress like this and look the way you look in it and just decide you don't like it."

You could feel the tears returning as soon as you stopped walking. "I don't know what you wanna hear," your back was to Eddie, but you felt his gaze regardless. "I just didn't like it...anymore, okay?"

The fake organization of the ribbons in front of you didn't deter him, he remained behind you in silence until he couldn't take it anymore.

"Did...did I say something? Earlier, in the AV Club." He spoke so softly, and with such sincerity, you'd never know it was Eddie talking to you.

You sniffled, angry at yourself for letting him hear how upset you were. "I don't know what you mean."

"Henderson," He's quick on your heels. "Henderson said you were crying when you left."

You don't--can't say anything. Trying desperately to will the tightness in your throat to go away and the tears to dry before they fall from your eyes. A small, shaking breath passes your lips.

"Please look at me, Mouse." His voice is hushed when he calls out to you.

You turn to him begrudgingly. Hoping if he saw the mess he made he'd leave well enough alone.

But when he sees your face, with red eyes and damp tear-stained cheeks, his heart falls into his stomach.

"Oh, oh sweetheart--"

You beat him to it. "I'm fine, Munson. Just...just give me the stupid thing, okay? I'm better off invisible, anyway."

"You've never been invisible to me." Eddie hands you the dress, and watches as you wring it between your hands. "I'm sorry, Mouse."

You scoff, "You didn't--"

"Yes I did," He says firmly. Eddie steps into you, closer than he's been before. "I made an asinine comment thinking we were playing our little game, but it's not a game if someone gets hurt, especially you."

Eddie swipes away the tear on your cheek with the pad of his thumb. "You looked beautiful. You're always beautiful, but that dress? Honey, I couldn't think straight. I'm a dumbass half the time, but I turned into a god damned Neanderthal when I saw you in that."

Your brain couldn't process what was happening. It almost sounded like Eddie...liked you?

"I thought," You looked down, embarrassed to even say it out loud. "I finally felt pretty, pretty enough to be seen and not just in the background."

Eddie's brow softens at your words, "Mouse, I see you. You're one of the only things I look for throughout the day. Always lookin' out for the pretty shy girl with the smile that makes me go weak in the knees."

You laugh at that. "I guess I always look for the obnoxious metal head that's way too good at getting under my skin."

Eddie chest rumbles with a laugh, too. "You're too good at calling me on my crap, what do you expect me to do?"

A comfortable silence falls between the two of you, and it has Eddie clearing his throat. "Can--can I give you a hug? Hate that I made my favorite girl cry."

The smile on your face speaks volumes, but you nod anyway.

When you're wrapped in Eddie's arms, his warmth seeps through your bones, relieving any tension or nerves. His scent invades your senses, warming your belly and heart. You melt into him completely.

Eddie can't believe how well you fit in his arms, like a damn puzzle piece if you asked him. He smells you shampoo, and memorizes the fragrance, filing it away in his mind as his new favorite smell.

When you pull back, he leans his forehead on yours. "I'm sorry I hurt you. I really am."

You nod, moving his head a bit as it rests on yours. "I know."

Eddie steps away, shoving his hands in his pockets. "Ya know, uh, if you're not busy, I'm running a DND campaign tonight. I'd love it if you sat in and maybe after...I don't know, maybe I could take you to Benny's?"

You smirked, eyes narrowing at him. "You asking me out, Munson?"

His eyes widened in sheer panic, "Oh--oh my God, I read this all wrong, huh? Please just forget--"

You're quick to ease his worry. "I'd love too."

Putting the dress on the table, you offer Eddie your hand. "Show me the way, Dungeon Master."

He takes it eagerly, but doesn't walk anywhere yet.

"Eddie?" You giggle.

"One second, princess. Damn knees turned to jelly again."

[phantomchick]

The ending of Oshi no Ko vs The beginning (chapter 166 vs 10)

So as you can see, there's clear evidence of intentional parallels happening here. This is the aftermath of Ai's death that mirrors the aftermath of Aqua's. Aka already claimed to have the ending planned well in advance months ago so it's not a big surprise that even the ending panels of the first (not counting the prologue) and last chapters match.

And yet Oshi no Ko still falls flat despite fulfilling its promise of a revenge-tragedy.

I think the biggest problem it has is the way the last chapter tells us instead of shows us as chapter 10 did.

Yes chapter 10 also used narrative text boxes a lot, but I argue that the effect then was much more immersive.

With them being used with precision to move us through a time skip with only the most necessary information about the fall out for the characters, even the distance had the effect of doing characterisation work with Aqua describing in a narrative text box how the policemen hid the scene from Ruby but Aqua felt his mother's body going cold beneath him as they arrived - this use of the text boxes casual tone over child Aqua sitting in his dead mother's lap gave a sense of disassociation and shock to the scene.

Even the textboxes turning black to mirror Aqua's dark emotions concerning his revenge as the star in his eye turned black showed how much attention was being paid to their use.

Ruby.

Ruby felt much more real in chapter 10, her rant about the internet's callous response to Ai's murder felt real and emotionally charged. In comparison, for all she's the main subject of the last chapter, she feels like a 2d cut out of herself, barely in there for all we see her struggling through Akane's observant gaze.

She expresses her motivation to be an idol despite hardship by acknowledging that Aqua's right about idolwork being difficult and cruel but reminding him that despite the darkside of the entertainment industry, their mother 'shone' very brightly. The talk about how Ruby shines more the darker things get and how this is a good thing because it reaches out to people trapped in darkness of their own (just like her when she was a terminally ill cancer patient) is clearly meant to echo this idea.

Frankly it fails.

Ruby feels hollow.

To the point where we barely get any insight into Ruby's real feelings at all or any emotional connection with her in comparison, by 166 it's genuinely unclear whether or not she's lying even to the portrait of her dead family when she's 'alone' on her way out the door.

We don't see a conversation between her and her adoptive mother about Aqua, we don't see her talking to Akane at all. We see her grief and her success from a deified distance, just like the fans do. And it alienates us from the character.

Lies are love and she has two stars in her eyes. Just like her mother did.

I think this more than anything condemns the idol industry, she has to keep lying even to herself about her job being fun because otherwise what was all that pain and suffering and loss for?

Aqua died in a murder-suicide (shout out to Taiki for experiencing a loved one doing this twice, poor guy) to give his little sister success in a job that she has to get up at 5.30 for, devote her entire youth to and will have to quit in less than a decade. It has to matter, that she provides escapism for people who are suffering like she did, but it doesn't change the grim reality of her exploitation.

I think the lack of dialogue in the final chapter and the loss of voice for Ruby in the last few arcs mirrors the loss of agency she experiences as she becomes the ultimate idol, everyone's star.

But that doesn't change the fact that from a reader perspective it's just bad writing. Aka failed to carry his audience with him to the finish line and his messages about the idol industry were blurred by the rushed plot after the movie arc began.

If it weren't for Mengo's art hard carrying the clumsily executed story, I can honestly say that I don't think many would have read this manga all the way to the end.

[mncxbe]

I believe Ur requests are open rn, so can I request bad men (pls include jouno I'm so down bad for him rn 😭) taking Ur V card? How would they act, etc yk?

Anyhow, Ur writing is beautiful and I wish you a good day/night 🤍

tysm anon^^ you're really sweet and yes ofc I can write for that. hope you like it♡♡

also the way I resisted including my fav dilfs I cannot. internal battle fr

°☆○

First time♡

𝑫𝒂𝒛𝒂𝒊, 𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒚𝒂, 𝑱𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒐, 𝑻𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂 𝒙 𝒇𝒆𝒎!𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒓

𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆: smut♡/ itty bitty fluff

𝑫𝒂𝒛𝒂𝒊

bro does not go easy on you just because it's your first time

he will be gentle at first until you get used to his size and all but after that he'll edge and overstimulate you until you're a babbling mess under him♡

wants to be on top so he can see your pretty face

doesn't really care about the whole making the first time special. every time should be equally special^^ so don't expect anything too fancy

for aftercare you cuddle

"Shit baby. Look at you taking me so well" he praised, leaning in to place a chaste kiss on your tear stained cheeks.

It's only been half an hour since the two of you got in bed but your boyfriend had you cumming countless times already. Legs wrapped loosely around his waist, your glossy eyes rolled back in your skull as you pleaded him to stop.

But how could he stop when you were chanting his name like a prayer with each of his thrusts?

A heartfelt chuckle rolled past his lips as his thumb pressed on your aching clit, rubbing gentle circles on it.

"What was that bella? Want me to stop? Can't have that until you cum one more time. You can do it f'me yea?" he cooed, smiling down at you.

You only nodded in response, too fucked out to form a coherent thought. And so your sweet boyfriend kept rolling his hips against yours, reaching your sweetest spots until your high washed over you again; leaving you panting softly.

When he eventually pulled out, Dazai rolled to the side and slid his arms around you, pulling you flush against his frame. The sheets were damped by your sweat, cold against your skin.

"Was it good bella? Did you enjoy yourself?" he asked, nuzzling his head in the crook of your neck.

You sighed deeply, feeling your breath slowly return to its normal rhythm.

"If I liked it? God damn you Osamu it was amazing" you smiled, kissing his damp forehead. "I love you"

"I love you too baby" he whispered softly, smiling contently. Not long after you both fell asleep, relishing each other's embrace.

𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒚𝒂

he's so gentle and caring

puts his whole chuyussy into it; there will be scented candles, silky sheets and he probably buys you a fancy lingerie set

takes his time with you with foreplay and when you actually do it he's so tender. holds your hand. constantly asks if you're ok

he does not stop until you cum at least twice

"Good girl. You're taking me so well baby"

for aftercare you either take a warm bath together or share a glass of wine while you debrief the sex; what you like and dislike and what he should do different next time

overall an amazing experience

The sweet, syrupy scent of the candles placed on the nightstand lulled you into a blissed out state. Your gaze was hazy as you took in the imagine of your boyfriend underneath you, ruby coloured locks standing out against the pearly white sheets.

Chuya's thumb gently caressed yours as he gave your hand a reassuring squeeze.

"You feeling good princess?" he hummed, watercolour gaze carefully observing your expressions.

You rolled your hips against his at a steady pace, meeting his thrusts; and nodded, a sultry smile tugging at the corners of your lips.

At first your boyfriend wasn't too keen on letting you be on top. After all, it was your special night. Why would you have to work for it? But after coaxing two orgasms out of you he finally agreed and helped you straddle him before burying his cock deep inside you again.

As for now you were chasing your high again, manicured nails softly grazing the skin of his chest as you let your head fall back and mewled so sweetly for him.

"Chuu..." you began, struggling to keep your pace but failing miserably. Chuya's free hand came to rest on your hip, guiding your movements.

"That's it baby you can do it. Just a bit more ok?" he groaned and squeezed your hip.

After you both came and you stumbled off him, laying on the damp sheets beneath, Chuya let out a mellow laughter.

"You did so good baby. Did you enjoy yourself?"

"Yea, I did. And you?"

"Obviously" His fingers brushed a few stray strands of hair from your face; he couldn't help but smile when he saw the content expression on your face, a mask of pure bliss.

"How about we take a bath sweetheart? Sounds good?"

You only nodded in response, eyes shutting tight as you shifted closer to him. Your boyfriend rested his hand on your head, gently caressing your hair.

"Okay then. I'll go get the tub ready"

𝑱𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒐

just like Dazai he likes to overtsimulate you but he's a bit more gentle

the fact that he picks up on your reactions- hitched breaths and heartbeat- helps him adjust his pace

the perfect mix of praise and degradation sjsjjs

loves to hear you moan

any position is good for him. as long as you feel comfortable

for aftercare you just cuddle♡

Jouno could feel your heartbeat spike as he pushed himself deeper inside you. You were so sweet and warm; he was utterly entranced.

"Ah fuck Sai" you mewled, causing your boyfriend to shudder lightly, his strong arms threatening to give out. You made him so weak.

You've both been at it for a good while but Jouno showed no sign of stopping. And how could he when your walls were wrapping around him like a vise, milking him of all he's worth? The pretty pleas and mewls that rolled past your lips were like music for his ears, a sweet symphony just for him, that only added to the cocktail of pleasure.

But of course he couldn't let you see the effect you had on him, so he picked up the pace, causing your eyelids to flutter shut.

"What a pretty doll I have. I could swear this ain't your first time judging by how well you take this dick" he chuckled, relishing the feeling of your velvety walls fluttering around him. "Shit baby. You gonna cum again? You like it when I talk to you like that don't ya?"

"Y-yea" you babbled out, fingers sliding to the nape of his neck as you pulled him in for a sloppy kiss.

A small groan left Jouno's throat as you both reached your high, the tight knot in your abdomen snapping into a delicious pool of heat.

Your boyfriend gently rested his forehead against yours, mumbling sweet praises until you both regained your breaths.

After a few seconds he tried to roll to the side but you quickly wrapped your arms around his neck and pulled him back on top of you.

"Just stay like this for a bit. It feels nice" you hummed sleepily against his shoulder, earning a soft sigh from your partner.

"As you wish baby" he smiled, his lithe fingers finding your, loosely interlocking with them.

𝑻𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒊𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂

another gentle boy; when I tell you he's more nervous than you

Tachi really wants to make your first time special so he asks you 1000 times if you're sure you wanna do it

takes his time with foreplay and when you get to do it he takes it slow. maybe a bit too slow. he just doesn't wanna hurt you

but as soon as you tell him you're good he'll pick up the pace

please for the love of God praise him

he whimpers (sources: trust me bro)

for aftercare he brews you a cup of tea and you talk about how you felt

"But you sure you felt good right? Right??"

"You sure you're ready sweet thing?" asked your boyfriend with a concerned expression.

"Yea. I am, don't worry about it. I just need you so badly" you whispered in response and he nodded, slowly pushing himself inside you.

And oh you felt divine. Tachihara couldn't contain the loud groan that fell from his lips when he bottomed out and slowly started moving, rocking his hips against yours in a steady rhythm.

"You ok there pretty?" he asked, taking in your features; you looked so beautiful sprawled beneath him like this, silky hair a tangled mess from all the foreplay.

You bit your lip and nodded in response as you urged him to pick up the pace; and naturally he did.

Soon after you were both panting, His eyes were shut tight, mouth slightly agape as he whispered sweet nothings against the shell of your ear.

"You're so good f'me sweetie. You feel like heaven." he said in a sultry voice between sweet moans and whimpers and you swore you could've came just by the sight of his blissed out expression. Your boyfriend's hands worshipped every inch of your heated skin, fingertips slowly tracing down your body to rub little circles on your puffy clit.

"Baby wait wait I'm-" you attempted to protest but were cut off by his gentle touch.

"Shh sweet thing it's ok. Need ya to cum f'me like a good girl"

The moment he spoke those words a wave of pleasure washed over you, causing your thighs to squeeze his narrow waist.

Nails digging into the plush skin of your hips Tachihara let out a groan, thrusting a few more times before releasing his cum deep inside you.

"God that was..." he sighed, eyelids fluttering shut for a moment as he took a deep breath in. When he opened them again and saw the mess the two of you made, his cum dripping down your thighs as you desperately squeezed them together he got out of the bed and rushed to the bathroom to bring you a towel.

"Here you go babe. Lemme clean you up" he smiled gently, brushing the puffy material against your sensitive skin. "Was it good?"

"Of course it was babe" you replied, returning his smile "But I could use some sleep now"

"As you wish"

He slid back underneath the covers, arms wrapped tightly around your waist as he nuzzled his head against the nape of your neck.

"You were amazing darling. I'm so happy I got to be your first" he hummed, sending warm tingles down your spine.

What did you ever do to deserve someone as sweet as him?

[eeniey-past-bedtime]

Just Your Luck (And Mine Too)

A/N: "Eni aren't dragons supposed to be next?-" Yeah dragons are popular but y'know who i don't see much of? Tieflings- i hope i did them sorta good at least! Been busy lately uni is KILLING ME. But not before i can say gender neutral reader-

Consider gifting me a packet of raw spaghetti?

.

..

You slam the door behind you, not out of anger, but because gravity just seems to hate you today. Of course the handle snags your bag, your keys fly across the room, and your phone—your poor, already-cracked phone—slides right under the couch.

Because why not.

First, you overslept. Then, you spilled coffee on yourself, got caught in the rain without an umbrella, and your boss decided today was the perfect day to be extra passive-aggressive.

You flop face-first onto the couch, not even bothering to fish for your phone. Just... let it go. You’ll become a permanent part of the fabric for now.

“…You dead or just dramatically dying?”

You groan without lifting your head. “Ruby, don’t.”

“Okay, okay, jeez,” Ruby says from somewhere behind you. “I’ll cancel the funeral arrangements.”

The couch dips as Ruby sits down beside you. A hand runs over your back once, then twice—comforting, even if he’s pretending it’s not.

“…Bad day?” he asks, softer now.

“The worst,” you mumble into the cushion.

Ruby huffs. “Alright. Sit up.”

“No.”

“Too bad.”

You’re halfway through your next protest when Ruby suddenly isn’t Ruby anymore. He shifts with a ripple of magic, and now there’s a sad-eyed puppy perched on your chest, tongue lolling and ears too floppy for its own good. You blink.

“Please,” the puppy says in Ruby's voice, sounding absurdly pitiful. “You’re my only hope. You wouldn’t let me starve, would you? Or worse—go without pets?”

You narrow your eyes. “That’s cheating.”

“I shapeshift, it’s strategy,” the puppy replies, tail thumping against your ribs.

You try not to smile. Try.

When he sees the corners of your lips twitch, the dog form melts away again—and suddenly Ruby's in your lap, dramatically draped like a cat who decided you are now furniture.

“You don’t get to mope when I’m around,” he says, smirking up at you. “Company policy.”

You finally let your hands rest on him, fingers threading through his fur—still warm from the magic, still slightly glowing at the tips. Ruby always has that faint ember in his skin, like his soul’s fire never fully goes out.

“I really did have a crap day,” you murmur.

“I know,” he says. “That’s why I’m here. To annoy the sadness right out of you.”

You snort. “That’s not how it works.”

Ruby shrugs, grinning. “Yet here you are, not crying into the couch anymore. Looks like I’m winning.”

You sigh, then chuckle. “You’re the worst.”

“And yet, undeniably effective.” He nudges your chin with his head. “So… dinner, cuddles, and me performing exactly one overly dramatic impersonation of your boss before you threaten to break up with me?”

You hesitate. “You’ll do the voice?”

“With perfection.”

“…Okay, fine.”

Ruby kisses your temple and shifts, hopping to his feet, snapping his fingers. “Alright! Operation Cheer-Up: Success in Progress. Let’s go, sad-sack, you’re not escaping me today.”

You shake your head, but follow.

You always do—with him.

..

.

[darethshirl]

teia/viago angst (Royalty AU)

Antiva City is both grander and dirtier than Treviso, all classical lines and dilapidated cobblestones. Teia watches her step—and her purse—as she squeezes her way down Via di Palazzo, employing her sharp elbows to carve a path forward. Market day: a nightmare for the entire country, and twice as much for its capital. She tries to unearth some patriotic awe for this city and its heaving, sweaty masses, its colorful townhouses, its marble statues stained black from coal smoke. She succeeds, in a way. The centuries-old arch leading up to the royal palace is pretty impressive, built strong and tall and imposing.

Too bad her personal entanglements sour the feeling.

The crowd disperses somewhat once she reached the gardens, then disappears completely at the gates. Two severe-looking guards with plumes in their hats glare at her approach, but Teia's Crow status supersedes her elf ears. Being granted passage is quick work, and then it's just a long stroll down the hallway—lush carpet under her feet, portraits lining every free inch of the walls—until she's at the throne room.

Antiva's latest king is a study in understatement. Unlike his revered predecessors he's eschewed the robes and the scepter, the heavy crown and the ruby ring. Instead he stands in slim black silk, his boots polished and his diadem gleaming. His hair is a little longer. His gloves are the same.

“Your Majesty,” Teia intones, bowing mockingly low. When she resurfaces her smile is steady, and deadlier than any weapon. “Your loyal subject addresses you.”

Viago has always been worse than her at donning a mask. His discomfort, his wince—it’s there to see for those that know him, in his pinched brow, his thinly pressed lips. “Miss Cantori,” he says stiffly. And stops, staring down at her somberly. One might even say helplessly.

Unfortunately for him, Teia has never carried much mercy in her heart. “I hope you are in good health.”

“I—yes. Thank you. You as”—another wince, a smothered cough—”you as well. We hope.”

Teia sharpens her smile to a killing edge. “And yet the same can’t be said for our fair Antiva, can it? Not with the Antaam being made so welcome.”

Viago frowns. “It’s an occupation, not a soiree. I—we are doing what must be done for Antiva’s future. So she can have a future.”

“Is that what you tell to the people trapped in their own homes, unable to venture out without fearing for their freedom? To the people already dead?” And she’s not supposed to break like this, had planned to keep her cool with icy disdain, except fire surges in her veins regardless, the horror and injustice of it all choking her. “We can fight back, Viago!”

But Viago, cold man by nature, has now found his footing. “Just because we can doesn’t mean we should. In my opinion striking blindly would be too hasty, and entirely too unwise.”

“And your opinion is the only one that matters, is that it?”

If the hit registers, Viago doesn’t show it. He stares her down, unyielding and unblinking, his black eyes as pitiless as a snake’s. “That is correct.”

Teia means to scoff, but the sound comes out quavery, too bitter. “Then I suppose I never knew you.”

“You do know me.”

“I never knew you for a coward.” Teia digs her nails into her palms, to sublimate the feeling that’s making her eyes smart. “You’ve given up.”

“No. I’m waiting for the right moment to act,” Viago says, and Teia has always known the man is a viper, cold-blooded and patient, hoarding poisons and grudges alike in his black-veined heart—so why does this hurt so much?

She shakes her head. “Not good enough. Not for me, and not for the Crows.”

Viago’s back to frowning, some of that familiar mulishness seeping through his mask’s cracks. “Antiva would be best served if all her people work together.”

“Antiva would be best served by a swift end to this war. In my opinion.”

“It’s not that simple—”

“It is if you’re willing to hold the dagger—”

“Teia!” Viago shouts, and clearly regrets this breach of his control—but he unexpectedly doesn’t back down. Instead he allows his expression to turn truthful, the angle of his brow vulnerable, entreating. “Please. Can’t you just trust me?”

And maybe in another time, in another setting, she could have. With gritted teeth, sure, but enough to listen to him, to coax out the plans hidden beneath the plans. But the man in front of her right now, crown on his head and power at his fingertips, stressed and brittle and standing so much higher than her—this man is a stranger.

“The Crows have their own plans. You have been warned, your Majesty,” Teia says, bows, and walks away.

“Teia,” comes Viago’s voice, still entreating, but growing distant. He’s stayed rooted to the spot she found him in, throne at his back and ancestors framing his sides, unwilling—or unable—to follow her.

She doesn’t look back.

[dreamingofeos]

—⋆⊰  “[I]n the meantime... try to stay out of trouble? We'll never find Tails if you do something ridiculous.”

ROUGE'S words echo in his mind, looping like a broken record and yet already lost in the cacophony of irate static. Smaragdine that remains singularly, usually looking on with a distant, yet gleaming hope, now lours forward with utter rancor at its target.

❝So. You were the one helping that bastard this whole time?❞ STEP, step, step. Seas of eyes surround the both of them, watching on with a mix of malignancy and apprehension. ❝I would have expected Breezie, or maybe even Jet, but you…❞

 CUPPING hands over her mouth, a gentle whisper leaves Amy's mouth. ❝Please, say it isn't true… not you!❞

 ❝Sonic,❞ CAUTIOUSLY stepping backward as he's closed in on, circled like the prey animal to a hungry wildcat, rubies attempt to keep eye contact, ❝This isn't how it was supposed to turn out. We were lied to. We tried to stop him when we found out. He told us that Tails was—❞

 ❝YOU were lied to?!❞ UNWITTING to allow Terios to finish his explanation, a windblast springs forward as rigid arms keep him pinned to the back of the hangar, pushing harder every second. ❝Don't you dare make yourself the victim in this situation. Because of what you did, Tails is gone! It's been nearly three years and the only proof we have that he's even alive at all is a voice recording he managed to send to us! Have you even considered what Robotnik could be putting him through?! He's all alone out there and it's your fault!❞

 ❝Sonic, it was more than—❞ ATTEMPTING twice to rouse the attention of the inconsolably vexed hedgehog proves fruitless as hands, calloused and painful from their undulating work, snap over that throat, pressing hard. Flittering pupils frenetically search the room, that mind losing its sense of self— is Sonic changing in appearance, or is it just the asphyxiation attacking his perception?

 ❝Blue, stop!❞ WINGS kick into gear as Rouge whisks forward, hands gripping tight to biceps from behind. ❝This is Shadow here, there's gotta be a good reason he—❞

—⋆⊰  THAT protest tapers off as Sonic turns. Rouge bears witness to the sight up close— true azure fur has darkened to a sickly, muted indigo, pupils lost to voids of white, the same color as the double stripes painted down his head. Coarsely, she's thrown off, sent flying backwards. Sharply acting, Amy lurches, grabbing her underarms before the back of her head is to hit the stannic wall.

❝The time for talking is done. He had THREE YEARS to talk! He KNEW and said nothing! All while he helped us search! All while he— while YOU— said you loved me! Was any of it ever true?! Or were you just using me?!❞ Cocking his head to the side with a sickening crack of bones, Shadow is lifted off his feet one-handed, a field of flames surrounding his assailant. ❝You took EVERYTHING FROM ME.❞

 ❝Wh—What's going on?!❞ SHIELDED by Knuckles, Cream peeks her head out, wide-eyed dread and dismay brushed over her face. ❝Sonic is—! Mr. Sonic, please! What's happening to you?!❞

 ❝He's in a state of raw, unwavering rage,❞ INTERJECTING in spite of her silence for the entirety of the ordeal prior, Shade's eyes follow Sonic's form, rising into the air with hands still clung forcefully to the throat of his struggling adversary. Normally, they're evenly matched, but in this sudden strange state— it seems Terios doesn't stand a chance. ❝He won't stop until the Ultimate Lifeform is naught but ash at his feet. …So if anyone has any ideas to stop it before it gets out of control, now is the time to speak.❞

—⋆⊰ REMOVING his hat, gifting it to Cream as she shivers, Knuckles steps forward finally, looking up at the scene. Eyes make quick work of the surroundings, seemingly concocting a plan in the moment. In spite of his outmatched state, Terios' own person has begun a transformation, the sprouting of impish wings from his back enough to push Sonic away from him as he regains footing, hovering overhead.

❝You're hopeless! Listen to me, you old fool!❞

 ❝I'LL DIE BEFORE I EVER LISTEN TO ANOTHER WORD YOU SAY AGAIN!❞

 ❝Amadalia,❞ GRUFFLY addressing her, without craning his head back, he points to the path into the tropics of the beachside, ❝Take the Chao and get them to safety. It won't end well for them to be stuck here during this. Rouge, get Cream home. We might have to evacuate the city if this doesn't get contained.❞

 JOLTING a bit, looking to her friend, Amy nods. She'll correct him on her name again later. ❝R—Right!❞

 ❝On it. Cream, let's get going.❞

 ❝No, wait! I want to help the Chao, too! If I can't help Sonic, I still wanna do something!❞ FISTS clenched, Cream turns to Amy. ❝Amy, please take me with!❞

 ❝Cream…❞ TOUCHED by the display of determination and bravery shown by her friend in the abrupt and terrifying situation, a nod is given once more as their fingers lace together. ❝Okay! Let's go get those Chao!❞ 

—⋆⊰ WITH Amy and Cream warping away, and Rouge breezing off into the sunset, Shade turns to look at Knuckles, the two being the only ones left.

❝And what of me?❞

 ❝Shade, come with me.❞ GANDERING back towards her, the two lock eyes. ❝We'll have a better chance stopping this in its tracks if we get up there together.❞

—⋆⊰ THE pair of echidnas nod to one another, and as their gazes both turn back to Sonic and Shadow, locked in a baroque duel in the sky, they take off running. As they near, Sonic's body convulses tumultuously, that display of fire burning hotter and brighter, and sending a flare up into the sky. The amber hues blaze, tinging a blue shade.

art credit (x) (x) (x)

[dextixer]

"Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me", "Once its happenstance, twice its a coincidence, thrice is deliberate", " The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. "

Many quotes/sayings exist in many different languages and many different cultures, all carrying the same meaning. The meaning that while mistakes can and WILL happen, a person should learn from those mistakes to not repeat them. Making mistakes is natural, understandable. Repeating those same mistakes over and over however, indicates a problem, a problem that rarely has an excuse.

RT is no different in this regard. As always, we are at the point where the crew commentary is released, that part of the year when many a critic and fan can read the thought of the crew producing RWBY, and despair at what they see.

It was revealed and i think known a bit before the recent days that RWBY Volume 9 had an entire episode cut, in the second part of the show. It was "unforseen" complications that lead the crew needing to cut a lot of stuff and keep the "most important" parts of the episodes, thats why after Ruby suicide the cut-away seemed so strange.

While i did not see CRWBY make any excuses (yet) about this besides saying that it happened, many fans are already doing it for them, simply saying that these are just "expected" things in production, that CRWBY are not to blame, and yet, they are.

Priorities

First of all, CRWBY are the ones who decide on what parts of the show to prioritize in production. On Twitter Eddy Rivas confirmed that episodes 1-7 were fully produced before episodes 8+ were. The argument presented there is that the solution of "Cutting things from 1-7 and add more to 8+" doesnt work because they were both done at different times of production.

While that is true it does pose a question on why exactly does CRWBY keep doing this then? This problem is not new, the fact that many of RWBY volumes are very back-ended and it causes problems is not new and has been known for a long time now. This is the reason why in most of the Volumes, critics usually focus on things that happen at the end of the Volume, because that is when most of the problems with things like writing occur.

So why continue doing this? So many of RWBY plotlines can be better distributed alongside the entire Volume instead of trying to cram it in at the last second. Lets take for example a character like Oscar. Volume 7 proved that Oscar and his relationship/changes due to Ozpin can be very well done if its all distributed properly in the Volume. Compare this to V6 where it all has to happen offscreen just because "There is no time" to explore Oscar.

Why is then so much of V9 so back-ended? Apparently there was going to be an explanation there that Neo gained her new powers because she landed in the God of Darkness acre. The Ascencion phenomena was going to be expanded upon. We have Ruby and her suicide. We have Jaunes break-down. We have Rubys break-down and i could go on.... and on.... There is just SO MUCH there, why?

The explanations of Neos powers could have been done earlier in the Volume. Ascencion could have been distributed during the entire V9 etc.

Instead we have parts of an episode focused on a talking trash panda that ends up not mattering as an example?

It just feels like the wrong things are prioritized in the show and most of them are back-loaded to such an extent that its INEVITABLE that it will cause a point of failure. Just like it did the REST of the times with the preceding Volumes. Why has that lesson not been learned yet?

When one builds something, the most important first parts are a skeleton. You can do the rest later, but you should have the MAIN feature of your product finished first, everything else is extra. And yet it seems that RWBY constantly tries to do everything at once and then when they inevitably fail to actually finish it all, they start cutting important stuff.

Ambition

The other problem is that there is just SO MUCH SHIT that they want to do. They want to use the Ever After to confirm BB and to further give their relationship time. They want to focus on Neo, her new powers (Now related to the God of Darkness). They want the Ever-After to explore Ruby and Jaune and their developments after V8. They want to explore the concepts of acceptance and reincarnation. They want to develop a new character, Little. They want to connect the Ever-After with the gods of RWBY. Thats just SOME of what they tried to focus on, and at the end of the day, isnt it a bit much?

This always happens with RWBY, the show writers dont seem to understand their limitations and they try to cram as MANY ideas as they can into a Volume, when that Volume wont be able to properly develop those ideas in the first place. This is why a lot of RWBY kingdom arcs feel like they miss an entire extra Volume, be it Mistral or Atlas. They simply have no time to develop the concepts they want.

But instead of cutting down on them and focusing on whats most important, they keep stuffing more and more things into the show. And then decide "Well, people will understand/guess what we kept offscreen".

Did you know that Neo got her new powers with Jabberwocker (Basically, literal fucking death?) because she landed in an Acre that belonged to the gods of RWBY? Well, we were supposed to "Guess" or "Understand" that according to the writers. HOW? I have no idea. But we were "Supposed to".

This is the kind of thing, this bloat that plagues many an indie development. Where the developers/makers just add more and more features that pop into their heads, instead of focusing on what they already have and is important.

Understandable in V1-V3. But holy hell RT is a full on corporation right now, so now its no longer understandable.

End Word

Anyways, apologies for being missing in a large capacity for this, entire month i think? Way too much stuff to do, also got involved with wiki editing, which takes a lot of time. Next thread will be next week and i will focus on the suicide/reincarnation/acceptance message that the Volume tried to portray, because the crew commentary has given me more info to talk about.

"Budget" and "Cuts" stop being excuses for the shows writing when its a regular occurrence.

[tumbleweed-writes]

Death and the Lady: Chapter Nine. Chibs Telford X Reader

PREVIOUS CHAPTER FOUND HERE

TAG LIST: @youngadult9016  @mrsfilipchibstelford @mamawiggers1980 @ravennaortiz @liveinsteadofdreaming @redwoodmaya

Chapter warnings: NSFW. So, obviously 18+ Trigger warning for past mentions and descriptions of SA and very brief mention of death of a child.

------

Chapter Nine: Former Indiscretions

Ruby’s Diner was considered an establishment in Charming. It was located on Main Street and blue and white collar workers alike wandered in for a lunch break or the occasional cup of coffee and slice of pie; pies which were proudly declared as being made fresh daily.

Y/N had been to the diner many times before, usually growing up with her father. He would often take Daniel and her for a slice of cherry pie; her favorite though Daniel had never quite cared for it and had always requested banana cream instead. 

The diner held those fond memories for her. However during her wild streak she could admit she had also once or twice entered the diner alone after a late night where she needed coffee and a greasy breakfast to recover from whatever trouble she’d found herself in the night before.

Today, she was forgoing the choice of greasy eggs and bacon slathered with hot sauce that she may have chosen as a remedy for a hangover back in her partying days. She was also sadly avoiding the cherry pie being a little more mindful of her waistline given the sweet danish she’d already eaten half of this morning. 

A small side salad and a cup of the soup of the day, which was usually either chili or chicken noodle, was the lunch choice Y/N had chosen. She was thankful that today’s soup was chicken noodle. She wasn’t quite sure her stomach could handle chili at the moment given her nerves felt a little frazzled. To be honest, she found the diner’s chili to be pretty stomach turning even when her stomach felt its best.

She’d had another nightmare filled rest the night before. She had the slightest feeling that the tense lecture she’d received from Hale the week before had played a role in fueling the dreams. They’d become less frequent and she’d foolishly hoped that perhaps she was learning to cope a little better with her guilt over her new business relationship with SAMCRO.

The nightmare the night before had proven that she was not so lucky after all.  A new nightmare scenario had joined the mix; Chibs holding her hand leading her off into the darkness of the night outside of her home, only for her to be yanked away by an ice cold hand. In the dreams Chibs willingly let her go, not even bothering to fight to protect her as she was dragged off screaming into the darkness. In fact, in these dreams Chibs actually smiled as she was drug away scared out of her mind. 

Needless to say, after she’d woken from that nightmare she’d found herself downstairs in the basement doing inventory in the embalming room. It was a task she usually dreaded but she’d decided that the monotony of counting eye caps, gloves, face masks, and suture needles was better than attempting to fall back into a restful sleep that would most likely not come.

She guessed the sleepless night had been apparent on her face at work today because Old Charlie had insisted they were going out for lunch; his treat. She’d not had the heart to tell the old man no.

She cringed as Old Charlie spoke nodding his head towards her, studying her through the thick bifocals he wore. “You look rough, kiddo.”

“Awe, thanks. You really know how to make a girl feel special.” She snarked, taking a sip from her glass of Diet Coke, finding it easier to slip into sarcasm than admit her problems.

She had the slightest feeling Old Charlie would disapprove of her newfound business partnership with SAMCRO.

She had a feeling that the old man had not a clue about Skeeter’s past nor her current dubious dealings with the local MC. If he did, she had a distinct feeling she would have heard a mouthful from him about how awful it was. He was old school and very by the books when it came to the business. He was all about ethics. Skeeter and Y/N had maybe chosen a path of being ethically questionable to say the least. 

She didn’t miss the look of disapproval he sent her in response to the snark and she had enough of a sense of shame to sink down in her seat under the aura of disapproval from a man who had always felt more like a surrogate grandfather than her father’s oldest business associate.

She was quite certain that Old Charlie had likely changed her diapers at least once when she’d been a baby, after all he’d been around long before she was even born. There were plenty of pictures, in the many photo albums her father collected, of Old Charlie holding her as a grouchy infant. 

Y/N had not been closer with either set of her biological grandparents. Y/N’s paternal grandfather had died when her mother was pregnant with Y/N’s older brother so she had never known the man. Her paternal grandmother had died a few years before that. She knew Old Charlie had been a great comfort to her father after the loss of his parents. He’d been happy to step into the role of grandfather. 

Y/N’s grandparents on her mother’s side had not been particularly close to her either, making Old Charlie all the more of a grandparent figure.

Her maternal grandmother had died when Y/N was ten but they’d never been close. Delilah Laurier had not exactly been thrilled that Y/N had been less ladylike than she would prefer. As much as Y/N enjoyed dresses now, she had little interest in them as a child. Her maternal grandmother had been less than enthused with Y/N’s tendency to wear her older brother’s old overalls and her interest in digging in the garden not minding the dirt or bugs. 

Y/N’s maternal grandfather had died when she was seven. Y/N’s feelings towards the man were less familial. She’d had the feeling he’d not approved of her anymore than his wife had. 

Her maternal grandfather had been a Baptist preacher and he’d been more fire and brimstone than love of the lord from what she remembered. Abraham Laurier had not been the type of grandfather who took Daniel and Y/N Y/L/N fishing or gave his grandchildren candy behind their parents back. His gifts had mostly consisted of bibles and harsh lectures about the end of times. He had strict expectations about proper behavior that Daniel and Y/N had been all too happy to push past. 

Abraham Laurier had not been the most cuddly individual especially after his only child had died; grief did strange things to people. 

He’d disapproved of Y/N’s father and his lack of what Abraham viewed as religious devotion.

Abraham had been none too happy that Lloyd Y/L/N had little interest in raising his children in the Baptist church. Lloyd’s wife Caroline, had always been the one who found comfort in faith after all.

Y/N had always wondered if her father had believed at any point. She didn’t see her mother, or at least what she’d heard about her, as being the type that would accept a lack of faith in a life partner. At times Y/N had wondered if her father had just run out of faith…perhaps his wife dying so suddenly had been enough of a sign, that if there was a God, he hadn’t cared too deeply about Caroline’s devotion to him.

Y/N found that she tended to lean more towards her father’s view on faith. She’d observed and learned enough about theology at least through the observance of funerals.

She could admit she found herself feeling somewhat envious of those who found comfort in the promise of a caring lord and the peace of an afterlife. It sounded nice to her, to have that kind of hope. 

Her feelings about the entire God and the afterlife thing tended to be a little more pessimistic.

She’d once heard the afterlife, described in a funeral, as a chance to sit with the Lord in praise of him for all eternity. As awful as she knew the thought was, she couldn’t help but to think a life spent praising some almighty being sounded like a dreadfully dull way to spend an eternity. She saw so much loss and death in her day to day work life that she couldn’t help but to shake the thought that if there was some almighty all knowing God that he might feel indifferent towards his creation. After all, how else did someone explain all the pain in the world? 

After Daniel’s accident she’d felt even more certain of God’s indifference. 

She’d always summed up her views as being agnostic at best. From her observations the Baptists hated Catholics, the Catholics hated the Protestants and the feeling was mutual, and no one really cared about the Methodists. Overall, organized religion felt like one big means to control people and an excuse to argue over who was right and who was wrong. 

She knew enough of course to keep her opinions about faith to herself. She knew well enough to know that no one would be amused nor comforted by the local funeral director’s warped and jaded opinions on God, organized religion, and the afterlife.

It was easier to just smile and nod at mentions of God being good and a better place up in the sky, than to admit that thinking of God just made her feel tired and angry.

Y/N let out a heavy sigh realizing that Old Charlie wasn’t going to allow her to escape any avoidance of what had her looking this worn. 

The man spoke a sigh leaving him. “You look exhausted. I found you counting dental simulators and trocar buttons at six am this morning. I know you, Sunshine. You never have been an early bird, at least willingly. You hate doing inventory and always shove the job on Skeeter. You didn’t sleep last night from the looks of it.”

She sighed studying the man hating that he knew her so well. She shook her head ever so slightly at the moniker Sunshine. He’d given it to her on a count of her being quite the grouchy baby and toddler. She’d always been too serious, he claimed. So the Sunshine nickname had started and stuck even into adulthood. 

 Charles Olsen had been in the funeral business for decades. Even though he should probably be down in Florida somewhere fishing and enjoying the final years of his life, he remained here in Charming by her side. He was close to seventy now and his hair was stark white as snow and thinning. His nose was sharp and narrow making the rest of his frame seem all the thinner. 

Even with the narrow frame he managed to pack a slight pudge to his belly due to his poor diet. His eyes had always been bad, meaning he’d worn glasses for years but they’d gotten thicker as he aged. His eyes were a pleasant hazel that she’d always felt were lovely even behind the thick lenses of his glasses. He boasted that he’d been an attractive man when he was younger but he’d not always taken care of himself leading to painful arthritis and one heart attack under his belt. He was always impeccably dressed even when he wasn’t wearing the black suits he reserved for funeral services. He preferred to look like a gentleman he claimed which meant ironed dark slacks, stiff starched button down shirts, and shiny shoes. 

He had no family left as far as she knew; no children and two ex-wives who he spoke of either fondly or with disdain depending on his mood. 

Y/N had realized long ago that she was the only sense of family he had left in this world. 

 She spoke knowing her response wasn’t entirely a lie  “Haven’t been sleeping well lately…probably just too many Diet Cokes too late in the day…and that last funeral…it was just a lot. Kids are always rough.”

Old Charlie was quick to speak after a sip from his own soda. “Damn SIDS…You did good with it though, Sunshine. You gave those parents the last best memory you could. Focus on the fact that you gave them some comfort while they had to say goodbye.”

She cringed, not wanting to allow her mind to focus on just how little the casket had been and how young and devastated the bereaved parents had seemed. The old saying that the smallest caskets were always the heaviest really was true.

She cringed all the more as Old Charlie spoke again. “Your dad would be so proud of the woman you’ve become. He’d be proud that you seem to have accepted that you’ve always had a knack for this line of work. He would be so proud of how you’ve taken over the business and kept it together even with the debt he left behind.”

Y/N bit down on the inside of her cheek struggling not to argue that if Old Charlie knew what she knew about the woman she’d become and how she’d run the funeral home, then his opinion would not be as kind.

A voice taunted her in the back of her mind snarking that her father would hate her for what she’d done to soil their sacred profession. He’d hate her for selling her conscience, access to the dead, and access to the cremator in exchange for money. He would hate that she’d gotten herself so involved with SAMCRO. He would hate that she was once again falling back into that world slowly but surely. He would more than likely despise Chibs for leading her back into that world. She had a distinct feeling her father would not be thrilled that the Scottish Son was so interested in her. 

She took a deep breath trying her best to change the subject not wanting to discuss her father’s pride in her. She found the perfect way to change the subject as she nodded down to the cheeseburger on Old Charlie’s plate. “Pretty sure that burger wasn’t on the new diet your doctor gave you. Burgers and fries aren’t going to help that high cholesterol.”

“You sound like my ex wife.” Old Charlie snarked, not hesitating to take another bite from the greasy burger. 

“Which one? If I sound like Vera I’d be yelling at you about alimony and if I sound like Anya I’d just be yelling at you in Russian about…whatever the hell she used to scream about. I never did pick up much Russian from her that was polite enough to repeat.” Y/N remarked thinking of the two previous wives of her surrogate grandfather.

Vera was the less pleasant of the two; a stern and vain woman who was always a little too focused on where her next payout was going to come from. Y/N could remember thinking that Vera was disappointed to find out that the funeral director she’d married had not been as wealthy as she’d hoped.

Anya was the preferable ex wife in Y/N’s opinion though she was just as stern as Vera. Anya at least seemed like she was less worried about being as prim as Vera. She had a mouth on her from what Y/N remembered. Y/N was quite sure she’d learned how to say dumbass in Russian from Anya, tupitsa, from how much she’d grumbled the word in Old Charlie’s general direction. Anya had been significantly younger than Old Charlie and Y/N had at times wondered if the marriage had been more of a green card thing than a love connection. Anya was temperamental and foul-mouthed but she’d at least looked upon Y/N with some fondness judging by the borscht she’d constantly made for Y/N each time she’d visited.

“Fair point…hope you remember some of that Russian. You’re going to need it when it comes to that Scottish boy that’s been hanging around you.” Old Charlie remarked the comment putting a slight smirk on Y/N’s features.

The concept of him referring to Chibs as a boy was humorous. She guessed though, at Old Charlie’s age that most men seemed like boys to him. 

“I think he’s fine with me yelling at him in English. He seems to get the message without me needing the Russian.” Y/N pointed out taking a sip from her soda.

Old Charlie peered up at her through his glasses, a hint of worry hanging in his voice. “Is he fine with that smart mouth you’ve always had? Boy looks like the type that doesn’t take too kindly to a lady getting mouthy with him? He seems like the rough type and you hear the rumors around town about him and the whispers about the crowd he runs around with. I’m old enough to remember when SAMCRO first rolled into Charming.”

She cringed, guessing that Old Charlie had a point concerning Chibs’ appearance. She knew rough was the most polite way to describe it. She was well aware of Chibs' ability to be intimidating. She’d noticed the nervous glances he attracted the few times they’d gone on dates. She thought back to what Hale had to say about the rumors surrounding Chibs. If anyone knew those rumors had some truth to them she had a feeling Chibs would be chased out of town. 

She cringed even more knowing Old Charlie was smart enough to suspect what most people suspected about SAMCRO. She’d always just thought of the MC as being an accepted part of her hometown. They kept up the guise of doing favors for local businesses keeping any corporate representatives out of town by whatever means were necessary. The idea was that they kept Charming charming. Despite the trouble they may have earned a reputation for, people saw them as a necessary evil when it came to keeping local businesses small. 

She gave Old Charlie a calm reassuring smile. “He doesn’t seem to mind my mouth. He seems more amused by my snark than anything. I think he can take it. As for the roughness, he’s a little softer than he looks. You have nothing to worry about, the rumors are just rumors.”

“So, he’s good to you? Treating you right?” Old Charlie dared to ask, taking another bite of his burger, chewing it slowly, his gaze not leaving her clearly searching for any sign of deception.

She sighed, not shocked by the question. She had a feeling Old Charlie had remembered her past interactions with members of SAMCRO and the obvious hints that she had not always been treated right. He most likely had a reason to fear history would repeat itself. “He treats me like a princess.”

She spoke again not helping but to keep the bitterness out of her voice. “No matter how well he treats me, I can’t say my father would be entirely too pleased if he was still around to see my choice in a romantic partner. Pretty sure he’d be none too thrilled to see me interacting with anyone in the MC again. The age difference would make him nervous all on its own, but add a kutte to the mix and I’m sure my dad would be asking fewer questions and just jumping straight into going after my Scottish admirer with a baseball bat right about now.”

Old Charlie shrugged his shoulders quick to respond. “Probably wouldn’t be thrilled. Think he’d realize you’re a grown woman though. He knew you enough to know you’ve always had a stubborn streak a mile wide.”

“A stubborn streak that made me his biggest embarrassment for a few years there.” She remarked remembering her past antics and the look of fear mixed with annoyance on her father’s face when he had to bail her out of whatever mess she’d made.

Old Charlie was fast to reply to this comment, his voice holding a tone of firm disapproval at her comment. “Hey, he was never disappointed in you.”

He paused, taking a deep breath before he chewed another bite of his burger. “You just scared him. Your dad’s work meant he had to face a lot of reminders of the fragility of life. It troubled him to know you were determined to flirt with death…especially after Danny.”

She cringed at the mention of her brother and how his rebellious phase had led him to being institutionalized out in Lodi. 

She didn’t have much of a chance to focus on the thought as Old Charlie spoke again. “Your father loved you, no matter what you did, no matter how big of a mess you made…that love didn’t go away. He didn’t care how many times he had to bail you out of jail or how many times you wandered home after doing something less than proper for a girl your age. There was no shame when he thought of you. You gave him some sleepless nights and he wasn’t fond of the men you were running around with…but he didn’t view you as a burden. I won’t lie…I did have to talk him out of going down to that clubhouse and dragging you out more times than I can count…had to remind him you were over eighteen and weren’t going to stop the path you were determined to go down unless it was your own idea. When you were ready to get off that path, he was there wasn’t he?”

“Yeah…yeah he was there.” She remarked, soaking in the words unsure if she believed that her father hadn’t at least once thought of her as being a worrisome burden that embarrassed the hell out of him.

Back then, she’d gotten accustomed to people she knew outside of the MC becoming nervous when they thought about her.

She spoke again, a hint of dread hanging in her words as she voiced her innermost thoughts out loud. “What path am I down now though?”

Old Charlie shrugged his shoulders, not hesitating to reply. “The path of your choosing. As far as I see it, you aren’t in handcuffs at least once a month, so that’s an improvement. You grew up and stopped excelling at not giving a shit. I don’t see you falling back into any old habits with the Sons of Anarchy.”

“Even with the Scottish boy.” She remarked referring to Chibs the same way Old Charlie had previously done.

“Can’t say I’m too thrilled with the reaper on the boy’s back, but you’re a grown woman. As long as you’re not bullshitting me about him treating you right, then I don’t think you’re going to repeat history. If he pulls anything with you though, just know the reaper on his back isn’t going to protect him from me, arthritic knees won’t stop me from getting out that baseball bat you mentioned” Old Charlie remarked she smirking ever so slightly having no doubt he meant business with the threat.

She didn’t have a chance to focus on the comment as the very Scottish boy they’d just been discussing entered the diner quickly spotting her.

Chibs spoke, making his way over to the table. “Hen, stopped by the home to take ya ta lunch, but Skeeter told me ya already had a lunch date. Tol’ me where ta find ya. Came to steal ya away fer a wee bit.”

Old Charlie raised an eyebrow at the comment, turning his gaze from Chibs to Y/N as he spoke, commenting on the younger man’s thick brogue. “Do you understand a word he says?”

She smirked not minding the goading comment; she only hoped Chibs wouldn’t take it as an attempt to be genuinely insulting. “No, not really. I’ve learned to just watch his facial cues and play it as I go.”

Chibs proved to take the comment in good humor, leaning down pressing a fond kiss to Y/N’s temple. “Funny, lass.”

She let out a soft sigh glancing up at the Scottish Son as she spoke. “Why am I being stolen away?”

Chibs quickly interpreted the look of trepidation on her face interpreting it as worry she was being whisked away to do some sudden favor for the club. “Jus’ wanted to see ya on my lunch break, Love.”

“Okay, I think I’ve finished my food anyhow.” She stated reaching for her purse ready to pay her portion of the bill.

Chibs took her by shock, reaching into his jeans pocket and pulling out his wallet by the wallet chain. He tossed down a bill that was probably a little too large for the diner bill they were expecting as he spoke. “Lunch is on me, Hen.”

He paused nodding down to Old Charlie. “Let the waitress have whatever remains as a tip, aye?”

She sighed giving a quick glance at Old Charlie not able to read his expression. She only hoped he didn’t interpret Chibs’ action and comment as an attempt to emasculate him.

She knew enough about men to realize their strange desire to keep up a sense of pride was often viewed as being far more important than it should be. In her experience, men Old Charlie’s age could particularly hold some pretty annoying views about male pride. 

She just hoped that perhaps Old Charlie had seen the act as an attempt to be a gentleman by Chibs by paying for the meal and leaving a large tip as a way to make up for stealing Y/N away.

She didn’t have much time to focus on the thought as Chibs took her hand in his eagerly pulling her from the booth, barely giving her the time to send Old Charlie a wave.

She just had to hope that her surrogate grandfather had not changed his opinion on Chibs based off of the interrupted lunch date.

—-------

Y/N raised an eyebrow as Chibs and she sat out on a bench not far from the diner, the warm sun feeling nice especially given she felt quite exhausted and a little sore after her late night.

She spoke staring down at the cherry snow cone she was holding her voice soft. “So, you stole me away for snow cones?”

“I stole ya ‘way to spend an afternoon with ya, the snow cones are jus’ a bonus. Figured we’d hit up the ice cream truck since ya already had lunch.” Chibs stated matter of factly taking a bite of his own grape snow cone.

She sighed, having to think that the sight must look odd. The outlaw biker and a woman wearing an inky black professional looking dress sitting side by side on a bench in front of a pharmacy and a tailor eating snow cones.

If anyone had told her a few years ago that one day she’d find herself eating snow cones with a member of SAMCRO, she’d probably be more than a little confused. She’d actually probably be more worried than confused if they’d added on the fact that she would be dating that member of SAMCRO.

She continued to stare down at her snow cone, the conversation she’d had with Old Charlie about Chibs still running through her mind. 

She’d simply referred to Chibs as her admirer and the boy…but in all actuality she guessed he might be considered her boyfriend. The word seemed a little juvenile for the intimidating looking biker sitting at her side though, even if he was currently holding a bright purple snow cone in his hand.

She thought back to the two conversations she’d had with Gemma and the insinuation that she might be considered being on her way to being Chibs’ ol lady. The thought both troubled her and filled her with a sense of something she couldn’t quite place…pride…adoration?

She let out a soft sigh knowing that placing a label on a relationship was hard enough as it was…add on the unconventional world Chibs lived in and the strange way their relationship had started, then it only made things feel more complex.

Chibs glanced over at her hearing the sigh no matter how soft it was. “Ya look tired, Hen.”

She let out a tired laugh shaking her head, finding it once again easier to sink into sarcasm. “You Scots really know how to flatter a lady.”

He shook his head quick to respond. “Aye, I do…honestly though, love. Ya look knackered…Hale ain’ been givin’ ya shite again has he?”

She felt a slight smile cross her lips at the hint of defensiveness in his voice at the mention of the Deputy. She couldn’t help but to enjoy the protective tone his voice had taken. “Nope, not a peep out of him. I’ve just…not been sleeping well lately…work and…life.”

Chibs frowned, interpreting that part of her mention of work and life contained the favors she’d done for SAMCRO and the stress of dealing with Hale’s questions over just how involved she may have been in those empty graves.

“Maybe ya jus need a distraction, Hen…get outta the house and get out some of that stress.” He offered hoping this was the best way to ease into a question that had been dancing around in the back of his head all week.

She sighed, shaking her head trying to hide that she feared she wasn’t sure any distraction could help the guilt always creeping in the back of her mind. “Maybe. Why are you offering to provide a distraction?”

He gave her a crooked grin and quickly replied. “I am…I actually got a favor of sorts to ask of ya.”

She sighed a hint of bitterness seeping into her words. “Because past requests for favors have been so relaxing.”

She paused, spotting the heavy sigh he gave her in response. “Sorry…not trying to be a bitch…I mean…I offered to do the second favor for you guys. I don’t have much room to complain. I opened the door for future favors.”

He placed a hand on her knee giving her skin a soft stroke with the pad of his thumb as he spoke. “Don’ call yerself that, lass. And this ain’ no club favor. Jus’ somethin’ that’ll be more of a personal favor for me.”

She gave him a small smile, tempted to point out that she had been called far worse than a bitch, but she held it in having the feeling he would not be amused.

“Okay, what’s this personal favor?”

He gave her a small smile in return fast to speak his voice, holding the energy of boylike enthusiasm. “The prospect is competin’ Saturday nigh’ in a bare-knuckle boxin’ fight. I’ve been coaching him all week out at the boxin’ ring at the clubhouse. I used to box both in the more traditional sense and with street fightin’. Even before SAMBEL I was good in the ring. I was damn good. My sister Cait…she use ta scold me fer all the scraps I’d get in as a lad. Bout gave our poor Ma a heart attack with as many black eyes and busted lips I wandered into the flat with at night. Course if my ma was still alive to see jus’ how many scraps I get in nowadays she’d be jus’ beside herself. She worried bout me ya know…I was the wee baby boy of the family…the only boy in the family after my da ran off. I was always too skinny but too hot headed to avoid gettin into fights with bigger lads, in my youth. Gave my poor ma alot to worry bout with all the trouble I got in.”

She felt a small smile cross her lips despite her confusion over what this had to do with any favors he was asking of her. She had found that she liked hearing about his family though she always got the feeling that there was a sense of sadness under the surface when he mentioned them no matter how happy the stories were.

Chibs spoke again, clearing his throat as he realized he’d gone on a small tangent about his past boxing history as well as his scrappier youth. “SAMCRO is throwin a big fight out at the fairgrounds. There’s a few fighters but Half-Sack is enterin. The fight’s gonna be a big deal. Gettin it sponsored by both TM Auto and Lumpy Fledstein’s Gym.”

She raised an eyebrow struggling to understand what any of this had to do with her. She felt her stomach drop as the explanation left Chibs’ lips. “I want ya to come watch.”

“You want me to come watch a bare-knuckle boxing match…a boxing match that is  essentially being hosted by SAMCRO?” She questioned not entirely caring if the displeasure was evident in her voice.

Chibs cringed knowing he shouldn’t’ be shocked by the distaste on her tongue. He sighed knowing her past with SAMCRO was not entirely something she found comfort in. Her past interactions with the club had been strictly doing favors at the funeral home and the city crematorium. It had always been on her turf. This interaction would be more of a social setting. “Aye…I know it ain’ the most romantic offer…I can’t promise some of SAMCRO won’t be there…and a few other charters too.”

She sighed not looking forward to being around that many Sons all at once. 

Chibs spoke again, apparently sensing her hesitation. He gave her knee another caress as he spoke. “It ain’ a Friday nigh’ party, Hen. Nothin’ too crazy is goin’ to be happenin’. Jus’ a boxing match where I’m coaching the prospect.”

She furrowed her brow, tempted to ask him why it was so important that she attend then. After all, wouldn't he be busy coaching his prospect? Was she expected to just sit by and watch him coach? It didn’t seem like they’d be spending much time with one another if he were to be coaching and she was to be in the audience.

Chibs kept his hand placed over her knee caressing the soft skin. He let out a soft sigh, deciding to just be honest. “I’m havin’ a lot of fun with ya, lass. I’m enjoyin’ seein’ where this goes with us…I jus’ I don’ want what we got buildin’ together to have to be separate from what I’m doin’ with the club…keepin’ those worlds separate doesn’t work, Love. Like I said, this ain’ no Friday night party, so nothin’ intense bout it…It’s jus’ a chance fer me to have my ol…the lass I’m crazy bout be a part of my world with SAMCRO...it’s a safe environment fer ya to be brough’ in as someone who means a hell of a lot to me. I wan’ my brothers to see what ya mean to me. I don’ want them to just see ya as our asset fer favors…I want em to see ya as my lass.”

She widened her eyes, spotting the words that had almost slipped from his lips before he’d caught himself: my ol lady.

She shoved those complicated feelings that the title gave her, focusing on the rest of his statement.

She hated to admit he had a point. A world built with her and the world he had within SAMCRO couldn’t exist independently. The two worlds would have to coexist at some point.

Keeping those two parts of his life separate from one another would only end in frustration and heartbreak. She knew that at some point when it came to him she would have to be all in or all out. Accepting SAMCRO was part of having him. 

She knew he had a point about the event he was inviting her to being on far more neutral grounds than a Friday night party at the clubhouse.

The fairgrounds wouldn’t be SAMCRO’s clubhouse…even if a few members of SAMCRO and any possible other charters might be milling around those fairgrounds.

She felt her stomach turn at the concept of being a part of his world with SAMCRO. Didn’t she escape that world? Didn’t that world scare the hell out of her?

A little voice in the back of her head was quick to speak up though, maybe it would be different with Chibs? Maybe experiencing that world by his side would be different than what she’d experienced with anyone else. 

She was no longer using that world to avoid pain after all…she would be entering the world because Chibs wanted her to be a part of it. 

That voice pointed out that he simply wanted all of the people he cared about to spend time with one another. 

She took a deep breath hoping she wouldn’t regret any of this. “Okay, I’ll come.”

The smile he gave her made the anxieties she felt bubbling up in her fade. The press of his lips to hers made them seem all the more far away.

She returned the kiss not helping but to think he tasted like the sweet grape snow cone he’d been eating and a cozy sense of comfort even with as drained as she felt from her sleepless night.

She thought of the nightmare version of him; the one who smiled as she was being drug away screaming.

She had a distinct feeling that that version of him that her guilt-ridden brain had concocted was not a thing like the man sitting here with his lips pressed to hers. 

She was overcome with the feeling that she’d be just fine at the fairgrounds. Real life Chibs Telford was most likely not going to stand by smiling if anyone laid a finger on her.

—------------------------------------

Y/N had been surprised that Juice had quickly linked an arm with hers as soon as Chibs and she dismounted his bike at the fairgrounds.

She had a distinct feeling that Chibs’ comment that Juice was going to find her a good seat had to do less with her boyfriend worrying about her view of the boxing ring and more to do with him maybe wanting the younger Son to play bodyguard.

A part of her wanted to be annoyed by the entire concept. It felt a little too much like Chibs was sticking Juice on her hoping the younger man would keep any men far from Chibs’ property.

She had wanted to view the SAMCRO escort as a sign of distrust from Chibs. Once the thought had passed though she’d realized that this was less him not trusting her around other men and more him wanting to make sure she felt comfortable in an environment she’d not been entirely enthused to be in.

She realized after the irritation had passed, that Chibs had recognized her hesitance about tonight. He understood she was stepping out of her comfort zone to attempt to be a part of his world. So, he’d most likely figured keeping a trusted brother close by would ease her anxiety. It helped that he had chosen a brother, who along with the prospect, was a little freaked out about her career. She had a feeling given the fact that her job intimidated Juice, Chibs had viewed him as someone who would be respectful of her. 

She cringed sitting by Juice on the hard metal benches, the scene playing out in front of them far too bloody and violent. The crowd around her seemed far more entertained, than Y/N, by the men beating one another to a bloody pulp in the ring.

She shook her head, spotting Chibs standing ringside beside Bobby and Tig. He seemed just as delighted by the bloodshed. He cheered the prospect on occasionally stopping to shout out orders and encouragements. He wore a towel around his shoulders that he occasionally used to wipe at Half Sack’s face wiping blood and sweat from the younger man’s features. 

She sighed not quite getting the appeal of any of this. She would be tempted to claim that enjoyment of this must just be some male thing that she didn’t quite get, but there were a few women in the stands that seemed just as thrilled with the scene playing out in the boxing ring.

The girl sitting beside her seemed to be having a great time and eagerly called out her support for Half Sack in a voice that could only be described as containing a bit of a dazed raspy sounding vocal fry.

Juice leaned over to Y/N nodding at the girl sitting beside them. “Cherry, she’s Half-Sack’s…uh, prospective ol’ lady.”

Y/N glanced over at the girl taking note of her. She was a petite girl with dark hair and an energy that read she was comfortable in the world of Motorcycle clubs. Y/N spotted a tattoo on the girl’s arm though it was too dark to make out what it was. She seemed at ease and not at all cold in the cool night air wearing a tight tank top and tiny shorts. Y/N had to wonder if Cherry was her real name…she had a feeling it was not. Cherry had only addressed her briefly as Juice and Y/N had sat down. 

Y/N tried not to focus on the young woman beside her though judging by Juice’s hesitance in describing what Cherry was to Half Sack, Y/N had a feeling that there was a story there. 

Y/N tried to focus on the boxing match but she could admit she was not having the time of her life. She’d never cared much for boxing and this was far from the more uniform version of the sport. This was full on brawling.

Juice glanced over at her, the younger man daring to speak as he spotted Y/N’s grimace at the sight of Half-Sack’s opponent’s bloody nose. “You don’t like blood?”

“I don’t mind blood…I probably see more blood than any of you boys see on a daily basis…I’m just not entirely fond of watching people beat the crap out of one another…Don’t get the appeal.” She commented, the statement about seeing blood making Juice pale just the slightest.

Juice spoke daring to ask his mouth moving before his mind had a chance to tell him to shut up. “Something I’ve been wondering about your job…where does the blood go? I mean when you…you know, prep a body…you get rid of the blood right? Where do you put the blood? Do you drain it all and then pump em full of chemicals or what? What if their veins are all fucked up?”

She sighed, debating if she should be honest. “You won’t like the answer.”

Juice furrowed his brow daring to respond though he had a feeling he might regret it. “Try me.”

She shook her head rattling the small bag of popcorn Juice had insisted on buying her. “Embalming fluid enters through the carotid artery while blood drains from a drainage vein, usually the jugular vein. You pump and drain at the same time. The blood runs down the table and It goes down the drain into our city’s lovely sewage system. If the veins aren’t great you have to get creative with the drainage and entry points, or try to explain to the family that a traditional embalming might not be the best choice for their loved one.”

Juice frowned a look of disgust crossing his features as he stared down into his cup of beer. “Seriously? Gross.”

She smiled, shaking her head once again pointing out something he didn’t consider and not helping but to make him squirm. “It's the sewer. Think about what other gross stuff winds up down there. That’s why we have water treatment plants. If you want to hear gross I can tell you about cavity embalming and the places I’ve had to stuff cotton pads to stop leaking.”

Juice groaned glaring down at his beer, absolutely losing his desire to drink it. “Please don’t.”

She let out a soft sigh shaking her head not helping but to tease. “Hey, you asked. If you don’t like the answers to your questions then maybe you should stop asking them.”

Juice shuddered at the comment and the glee Y/N seemed to exhibit at his reaction. She was definitely spooky. 

If he didn’t love Chibs he would have found a way to escape this conversation. When Chibs had asked him to keep Y/N company, Juice had agreed. It was clear that Y/N was becoming a fixture in the Scot’s life and Juice had noticed a positive improvement to Chibs’ mood.

The Scotman seemed a little lighter and a little more prone to smiling. Juice had the distinct feeling that Y/N was the source of the lighter mood in his brother.

Y/N didn’t have long to feel like she’d gained the upper hand in her interactions with Juice as a familiar face from the past approached the stands nodding down at her. “Y/N. Chibs mentioned he’d invited you.”

She gazed up at SAMCRO’s club President, a prominent sense of discomfort washing over her. 

Though Clay Morrow was capable of smiling and putting on the guise of charm, she had a feeling that he could be ruthless and dangerous if he wanted to be. He was much like Gemma in those regards. She guessed it made sense how they’d wound up together. They truly were two ruthless peas in a pod.

He spoke again, not giving her much of an opportunity to reply to his prior statement. “I do appreciate the working relationship you’ve been so open to developing with SAMCRO. You’ve been a great help.”

She shifted in place glancing around her almost certain someone would pop out from some corner and declare that they knew all about her deeds for SAMCRO. Of course, this didn’t happen.

No one seemed to care about this current conversation. She swallowed the lump in her throat fast to speak. “I am…happy you’re satisfied with the job I’ve been doing.”

“I am satisfied, Guess Chibby is a little more than satisfied by you though.” Clay remarked her stomach turning at the innuendo behind the words.

She bit her tongue, stopping herself from spitting back some smart remark. Clay seemed to have taken notice of the hint of spite dancing behind her gaze as he spoke again. “I’m not displeased by it. You’re good for him and you’ve been just as good for SAMCRO. You keep being good to both and we’re going to be just fine.”

She shifted in place taking a deep breath hating how small she felt under his gaze. She was reminded of how she felt around him back when she’d still been a club hangaround.

Clay had thankfully shown her no interest but she’d always had the feeling that she was only tolerated at the clubhouse because Jax had wanted her there and Clay didn’t want to press the issue. 

She had a feeling that Clay was simply tolerating her once again. A voice in the back of her mind told her that if she ever proved to be no longer useful to the club, that Clay wouldn’t hesitate to be less tolerant.

She spoke, forcing the words from her lips. “Filip means a lot to me. I’m capable of mixing business with personal without it being a problem for either.”

“Good to hear.” Clay remarked she not missing the raised eyebrow at the use of Chibs’ real name.

She took a deep breath, the sense of dread dying down a little bit as Clay took a seat between Cherry and her, the older man seeming to be satisfied with whatever he’d been searching for with this interaction.  

She turned her attention back to the fight, doing all she could not to eavesdrop on the conversation that had struck up between Clay and Cherry.

She didn’t miss the joyful squeal that left Cherry. Y/N turned to see the younger woman hugging Clay.

She apparently wasn’t the only one who took notice of it though. Half Sack apparently spotted it, the sight spurring something in him that pushed him to fight all the harder.

Half Sack managed to use whatever inner turmoil the sight of Cherry hugging Clay set in him, using it to punch all the harder delivering a knockout punch to his opponent.

Although the crowd went wild with the action she spotted the looks on the faces of her companions.

She had a feeling that judging by their reaction Half Sack was not meant to be tonight’s victor.

She shared a small glance with Juice, both looking at a displeased looking Chibs, it feeling all the more apparent that Half Sack had just done something quite dumb by winning the fight.

==================================

Y/N managed to pull herself from her bodyguard. She was relieved that Juice seemed to be eager to be pulled away to confront Half Sack with Clay.

She had quickly found that she could use the excuse that she was going to the bathroom to be all the reason Juice had needed to part from her.

She did feel somewhat guilty to be so brutally honest with Juice over the details of her job, but to be fair he had asked her. She wasn’t going to lie to him and sugarcoat any of it.

She would be lying if she tried to pretend she hadn’t felt some satisfaction in making him squirm. She knew that making people uncomfortable with her job was a defense mechanism that she was always too eager to rely on. She had a tendency to want to scare people before they got too damn close. 

She found the fairgrounds to be a little too crowded for comfort. She didn’t enjoy how the air smelled like stale beer and cigarettes. It was a little too reminiscent of the scents she used to take in at the Sons Clubhouse almost ten years ago.

The smell made her stomach turn and gave her the slightest headache.

She managed to use one of the porta potties out of desperation; she was thankful she carried hand sanitizer in her purse given the lack of sinks around to take care of avoiding germs.

She made her way through the crowd determined to get back to Chibs. She had to hope that perhaps she could coax him into ending the night in a far quieter environment. 

She just had to hope that whatever Half Sack had done by winning tonight’s fight hadn’t meant that Chibs would have to go back to the clubhouse ending this odd date abruptly.

Y/N felt her stomach drop as she heard a voice straight from the past. “Hey, Y/N? Shit, that really you, girl?”

She turned to stare up at the man who had approached her. It had been almost ten years and it seemed he’d aged with her, but she recognized the man in the kutte still.

Gunner was a Son out of Tacoma’s charter or at least that’s where he tended to roam nowadays. He’d been a nomad back when Y/N had found herself being a frequent visitor to his bed over the final year she’d spent as a club hangaround. 

He’d been seven years her senior back then and had held a certain charm to him when he’d first shown her interest. He seemed to be well-versed in charming younger girls. It wasn’t something that she’d realized until she was older. Guys like him went for younger girls because women their own age knew better. 

Gunner was a handsome man; muscular and much taller than her with deceptively angelic looking curly shoulder length dark hair and a dreamy pair of green eyes. His nose was somewhat crooked from having broken it in his teens. His lips were plush enough to give a few girls envy considering women paid to have fuller lips like his. His complexion always held an olive tone that he claimed was a result of his Greek heritage. He always wore a slight smirk that hinted he was full of mischief and most likely always planning something. He was more covered with tattoos than he’d been back then. She could distinctly remember a large intricate dragon that had been inked into his right forearm and shoulder. It seemed that more ink had joined the dragon in his time away. She could spot a few demons and a couple of skulls inked into his skin. 

Once upon a time the sight of him might have made her knees feel wobbly. However she was aware of the brutality that could be hidden under such an attractive package.

Having him standing here staring down at her made her feel all too much like the scared exhausted twenty year old woman she’d been the last time she’d seen him.

She spoke her voice tight, she honestly longing to find Chibs more than ever now. “Gunner.”

“Shit, girl. I thought you’d run off to New York. It’s been, what, seven years now?” Gunner remarked, she daring to roll her eyes at the comment.

She was never sure if his memory was that shitty or if he just used a feigned sense of poor memory as a manipulation tactic. She had a feeling it was the latter. 

“It’s been closer to ten…I’m back in town. My father died.” She remarked cringing at the final part of her statement.

She didn’t want to exactly share personal details about her life with the man in front of her.

Gunner spoke moving a little closer to her. “Sorry about that. Not sorry to have you back though.”

He moved in all the closer, his voice picking up a flirty tone that would have at one point made her feel more than ready to find a bed or some other surface and let him have his way with her. “You back at the clubhouse?”

She spoke scoffing as she stepped back from him. “No, I’m not back. I’m not interested in that anymore. I’m here with someone.”

He apparently took little notice of her absence of interest, reaching out gripping down on to her arm he fast to respond. “The lack of interest never stopped me from talking you into some fun before. Trust me, Babe, I have failed to find many pussies as fun as yours. You know whoever you’re here with won’t be near as much fun as me.”

She cringed at the salacious comment about the lower region of her body and how it compared to other women as well as the implication of fun.

Her mind quickly flashed back to the last time they’d had fun.

It was 1999 and talk of Y2K and what it meant for the turn of the millennium was all the talk around Charming. 

Y/N Y/L/N found herself caring very little for what the year 2000 would bring for the future of mankind though.

As far as she cared, the world's computers could in fact fail to work and doom them all. She didn’t see much of a future even without the paranoia concerning the upcoming millennium. Everyone kept saying the world was ending but Y/N was quite certain it already did. 

She woke her head pounding and her entire body aching, it taking a moment to recognize the ceiling above her. She groaned as it dawned on her just where she was and just who was practically on top of her.

She struggled to sit up from the weight of the body beside her and the brutal hangover that made her feel exhausted and far too heavy. She felt almost as slow and uncoordinated as she had been the night before.

She glanced over at the sleeping man beside her, a sense of dread and shame washing over her as she realized she’d once again found herself in bed beside the nomad.

Gunner was easily described as not being the most attentive partner when it came to her needs and her boundaries. Calling him unattentive was putting it far too kindly though. 

With Gunner she always wound up bruised and not entirely feeling as though her needs had been fully attended to. She was left feeling more often than not as though she’d been violated and hating herself more than when she’d agreed to fall into his bed. 

She had experienced a few things with him that had been way too far out of her comfort zone and had left her feeling wretched. Just a few months ago she had wound up having her first and only threesome with Gunner and some croweater; an experience that had made her realize she much preferred dicks to pussy and she didn’t like feeling like the third wheel in bed. Needless to say the experience had felt awkward and her attempts to put a stop to it had been ignored.

Being ignored in bed was something she was accustomed to when it came to the nomad.

The threeway was quite tame compared to the usual things Gunner talked her into at least. Sleeping with him and the croweater a few months before had at least not been painful. Usually her experiences with him pushed past a sense of discomfort and straight into an unmistakable feeling of pain.

Last night, that had been unbearably painful.

She swallowed her throat feeling dry and she finding it difficult to swallow. The action felt like it took too much effort. It burned, making tears leak from the corners of her eyes. She was able to remember just why the simple action of trying to swallow hurt so badly.

Being choked by a partner had always been a hard no for Y/N. It brought back too many horrible memories of her poor unwell brother attempting to choke her in anger back when she’d been eighteen.

Gunner had proven though, as he always did, that he didn’t care about what her hard nos were.

She cringed, hating that she was right back in his bed again, hating that she’d not been strong enough to shove him off the night before when it had become once again clear that he didn't care if she wanted to stop.

A voice in the back of her brain scolded her, reminding her the pills he’d given her the night before had made it all too difficult to really put a stop to much of anything they’d started the night before.

Gunner was a practical walking talking pharmacy always able to provide pills to Y/N. Xanax had become a regular choice for her. Booze and pot had begun to lose the effect she desired, so pills had become a lovely alternative at least when Gunner was around to provide them.

Oxycodone had been provided the night before; a new friend she’d been happy to try out washing it down with shots of whiskey and vodka.

She didn’t claim to be a junkie, but she also never claimed to be straight edge. It was under control she’d always claimed when confronted about her indulgences. It wasn’t a problem, she always explained. It wasn’t as though she was shooting up heroin in blown out veins. 

A voice was always fast to taunt her though reminding her she did all kinds of terrible things with Gunner and he was always happy to coax her into them in exchange for a few pills or the occasional drop of acid.

Jax didn’t approve of her new friendship with Gunner. She’d written off his disapproval with snark. Jax and she weren’t a couple after all, so why did he give a shit if she fucked anyone else? Gunner wasn’t the only guy she’d fallen into bed with. Jax had never had a problem with her past bed partners.

She knew she had overindulged last night as she often did with Gunner. Jax had been irritating her though and she was bored. Gunner had shown up with the promise to show her something interesting in the dorm room he was crashing in and she’d followed happily.

Of course once a nice high had settled in, he’d coaxed her into sex. It was a typical dance they did. They got high, she more so than him, and he talked her into bed.

Last night felt like all too much though. He’d been rougher than usual which wasn’t saying much as he was always just a little rough. He didn’t mind biting or slapping, at least when he did it to her.

She was no masochist but she was usually too dazed to fight back too often. He was so kind between those moments of brutality in the bedroom that she’d not found it in her to make too much of a fuss over it. 

Last night the high had worn off just enough for her dazed brain to panic. Gunner had paid no mind to her panic and her murmured pleas to stop. His response had been to wrap a hand around her neck and squeeze so hard that her vision had tunneled. 

A voice in the back of her mind had screamed to stop him, but she was so out of it and so weakened that she’d been unable to do much more than lie there and take it.

She felt bile rise in the back of her throat remembering the act of taking it. She somehow found the strength to shove his heavy body back, barely able to peel out of bed in time to make it to the bathroom attached to the dorm.

She spilled the contents of her stomach into the toilet bowl below her, the vomit burning her sore throat all the more.

Once she was certain she’d rid her body of anything that could possibly be contained within her stomach, she found herself standing up wobbling over to the mirror above the bathroom sink.

She turned on the water, managing to clean the puke from her lips before staring into the mirror.

She sighed, not shocked her bedroom partner had either not woken or bothered to care enough to check in on her while she puked.

It was better he didn’t a helpful voice in the back of her head reassured her.

She stared at her reflection, a cold chill running through her at the mess of bruises littered across her skin, the most prominent appearing around her throat.

Her eyes felt cold and empty as she stared at her reflection, the eyeliner she’d worn the night before smeared. Her lipstick was long gone and her lips felt chapped and raw. Her hair was a tangled mess and needed a good thorough wash. 

Her nude body was riddled with more bruises and in her opinion she suddenly realized she was far too thin. When was the last time she ate a decent meal?

She was suddenly so tired. She felt so much older than her twenty years of age. 

A small voice perked up in the back of her mind it quick to point out the obvious; this was no way to live, this was how she was going to die. For the first time in a very long time she realized that she didn’t want to die. She didn’t want to die here.

With that realization she made her way back out to the dorm room relieved Gunner had not woken. She redressed, not caring if she even found her purse.

She did the walk of shame relieved that no one other than a few croweaters who had managed to avoid being the company of Sons last night were up. They were all cleaning up last night’s party and did not pay her any mind.

Y/N walked out of the clubhouse for the last time not saying a word to anyone. 

She walked and walked for what seemed like hours until she reached a phone booth. She wasn’t sure if she believed in God but by some grace she found a couple of dropped quarters in the booth; just enough to make a phone call.

The voice answered on the other end the reassuring gentle lilt of her father’s voice putting tears in her eyes. “Y/L/N and Sons Funeral Home. How can I assist you today.”

“Daddy.” The words left her, her voice more of a croak she feeling all the more exhausted.

“Y/N, Baby? Where are you? What’s wrong?” Her father’s voice sounded out the professional tone dropping from his tone the panicked concern of a parent fearing for their child taking over.

The words left her changing her life forever. “I’m so tired, Daddy. I am so exhausted. I can’t keep doing this. I can’t do this anymore, please. I need help.”

Y/N was pulled from the memory, it enough to put some motivation into her she pulling against his grip her voice harsh. “Let go of me. I’m not that girl anymore.”

“You being here says something entirely different. Look around you Babe, you aren’t the only croweater hanging around tonight.” was the reply Gunner gave her still making it clear that he had zero interest in listening to any boundaries she sat.

His grip on her wrist grew tighter making her cringe as pain shot through her wrist.

Her savior came from out of nowhere the voice firm and monotone. “What the hell are you doing? You better back off Chibs’ ol lady.”

She gazed up at Happy almost certain she could have never believed she could be so thrilled to see the Tacoma Killer.

Happy had been around back in her club hang around days. Though she had never gone to bed with him.

In her opinion Happy had not seemed to mind her lack of interest in going to bed with him. He had seemed more interested in her family’s line of work. In particular he’d seemed more interested in picking her brain for knowledge about embalming than getting into her pants.

She’d always had the feeling that he’d gotten a sense of some slightly demented pleasure hearing all about embalming. A part of her that was all too aware of Happy Lowman’s reputation had to wonder if he actually found the descriptions of the tools used during embalming to be enjoyable and possibly even inspirational.

A small worried part of her brain had to wonder if the knowledge she’d imparted on him about her family’s line of work had been inspiration for him to try some of those practices on the living. It was a rabbit hole she never wanted to venture down.

Gunner at least had the sense to let her go though she had to be irritated that it had taken the mention of Chibs to get him to do it. It was somewhat insulting to think that her no hadn’t been enough until it was clear that another man had dibs on her. 

She found herself unable to present the argument that it was far too soon for her to put the ol lady title on herself.

If calling herself Chibs’ ol lady got her out of this mess then so be it.

Happy gazed down at her, the toothpick he held between his teeth sliding from one side of his mouth to the other. She got the sense that he was checking her over for any sign of damage.

She didn’t miss the gaze he sent to her wrist which she was clutching in her hand attempting to cope with the dull ache settling over the joints.

Gunner spoke an amused chuckle leaving him as though he hadn’t just been essentially assaulting her. “Shit, she’s hooked up with Chibs? Didn’t know he took up an ol lady. Last I heard he was still a sad Scottish fuck.”

If she wasn’t still feeling overwhelmed and slightly panicked she may have taken offense to the comment about Chibs.

It seemed that Happy took up the challenge for her his voice harsh. “Shut the fuck up. Chibs ain’t ever done shit to you. You’re always running your damn mouth. Last thing we need right now is you stirring up shit with Mother.”

Y/N furrowed her brow, it taking a minute for her brain to detect the word Mother meant SAMCRO. They were the Redwood originals after all.

Happy finally spoke, nodding to her his voice still that monotone droll. “Ignore this asshole. You okay?”

She parted her lips to respond but didn’t have a chance as the Scotsman they’d been discussing approached them, his voice cheerful he not yet taking notice of Y/N’s expression. “Hen, there ya are. Juicy said ya went to the bathroom. Thought it was takin a wee bit. Figured I’d come find ya in case ya got lost in the crowd.”

She gazed up at Chibs unable to stop herself from scooting close to him as he approached.

The cheerful energy dropped from Chibs’ features as he took notice of her clutching her wrist. “What’s goin on, lass? What’s goin on with yer wrist? Are ya hurt?”

She parted her lips, the words dying on her tongue. She felt less like the woman who always had a smart remark and more like the scared twenty year old she’d been calling her dad in a phone booth begging for help.

Her dad was long gone now though. A voice in the back of her mind told her she had no one to protect her now. 

Gunner was dumb enough to speak up, not hiding his actions. “I got a little handsy. Didn’t realize she was yours. To be fair, I didn't see a crow unless you put it on her ass or tit and I’m not seeing it.”

Chibs tensed at the words stepping forward his shoulders tensing his hands forming fists. “Ya fuckin touched her?”

Gunner paused a small smirk crossing his features not backing down. “She used to be a Friday night girl. I thought she might be back. Just figured she forgot her place, you know these bitches sometimes can get mouthy and need reminders.”

“Aye, she ain’ fuckin back. I don’ find the need to hand out reminders to women.” Chibs snapped moving further forward Y/N not missing that he stepped in front of her as though he was attempting to shield her from Gunner’s gaze.

Gunner shook his head clearly showing zero interest in any sense of self preservation or need to shut up now. “Trust me, from my experience with her she needs plenty of reminders. She always had a fucking mouth on her…it was nice at least when she put it to the right use. Don’t even get me started about her pussy though. Her mouth has nothing on that pussy. I dream about that tight pussy still.”

The words were enough to make Chibs raise his fist taking a swing. It was enough to push the younger man back just slightly. Though Gunner recovered quickly, raising his own fist ready to deliver a blow back.

The hit he threw back knocked Chibs back just the slightest but the Scot was quick to deliver another blow in retaliation managing to land one square across Gunner’s jaw. 

Happy stepped into action moving between the two men. He placed himself between them holding them apart, his voice raising but still remaining flat. “Stop, enough of this shit.”

Both men struggled against Happy’s attempts. The chaos snapped Y/N out of the agonizing sense of fear and dread a voice piping up in the back of her mind.

She was not left without anyone to protect her now. Chibs was proving to be the protector she needed.

She cringed everything in her wanting to allow Chibs to beat Gunner to a bloody pulp despite her claim she didn’t enjoy watching men beat the crap out of one another.

She was not willing for Chibs to be just as beaten in return though.

She stepped forward placing a gentle hand on Chibs’ back, her voice soft. “Let it go. It’s over.”

“He needs to keep his hands off ya and his mouth shut bout ya.” Chibs snapped in response.

Gunner smirked delighted to push more buttons. “Just cluing you in Chibs. Figured you might want to know about her past. She’s been in a few guys' beds. Thought you might want to know just where she learned those bedroom skills she’s used on you. I taught her to do that humming thing she does when she’s deepthroating you.”

The comment was enough to push Chibs further forward, Happy thankfully strong enough to shove the older Scot back, his voice picking up a hint of annoyance. “Enough.”

Y/N stepped forward moving beside Chibs, her voice soft as she placed a hand on his shoulder able to feel the tension rolling off him as he struggled to break past Happy’s hold. “Filip, please. He’s not worth the effort.”

She gently rubbed his shoulder, her voice pleaing. “Take me home, please, Baby. Let’s just go somewhere else. I don’t want to be here anymore. Just take me somewhere else far away from him.”

The use of his real name and the sudden addition of a pet name was enough to break Chibs’ focus on Gunner and the desire to beat the man within an inch of his life.

She spoke again, the plea still so apparent in her voice. “Please, Filip.”

He let out a shaky sigh fighting between the desire to push past Happy and give Gunner exactly what he deserved and the need to listen to the woman he was so ready to fight over.

He took a deep breath pushing down his rage making his choice.

He stepped back holding his hands up a sign to Happy that he was done.

Happy at least had the sense to keep a grip on Gunner stopping the man from stepping forward and continuing the fight.

Chibs took Y/N’s hand in his, giving it a firm but reassuring squeeze, the rage he felt still bubbling within him.

She squeezed his hand back Gunner speaking up past Happy, spotting that he was not getting the fist fight he apparently craved. “That pussy must be better than I remember if you’re backing down from a fight Chibby.”

Chibs gritted his jaw he fast to reply. “If it wasn’ fer her, I’d knock yer teeth outta yer head. Yer lucky I care more bout givin’ her what she wants than doin’ what I want righ’ now. Next time we meet and she ain’ here, I’m makin good on knockin ya flat on yer arse.”

With that he turned, allowing Y/N to drag him away before he lost his resolve and did exactly what he wanted with or without having to find a way to shove past Happy.

Chibs took a few more deep breaths leading her through the fairgrounds, his voice tense. “Let’s get ya home, Hen.”

She nodded her head, her voice soft. “When you get me there…come inside, please. I think I have some things to tell you.”

He nodded his head, his voice just as soft, his hand releasing hers, his arm wrapping around her waist squeezing her tight against him. “Aye, I guess ya do…ain’ goin to change how I feel bout ya. Jus’ so ya know.”

She felt a tight smile cross her lips, she hoping and praying to anyone who might be listening, even if it was a God she wasn’t sure she believed in, that he meant it.

She didn’t know what she’d do if he changed his mind about her after hearing all she had to say about what he’d heard tonight. 

She didn’t want to lose him.

[chaestats]

Insecurity drabble w Nayeon from TWICE!

Request by: anon

Warning: slightly suggestive at the end

Ask: "hey ❤️ I just found your blog and um my request is quite weird? But my whole life I've been insecure of my small chubby hands and was wondering if you could a ins drabble with Nayeon? fem reader please!"

Nayeon, your girlfriend of two years has been the most important and amazing person in your life. You were sure of this. And you were even more sure now, after she freed up her day just to go on a date with you even during comeback season. God, just how much you loved her...

She's always been caring & loving, never hasn't made up for being busy. Even when you didn't mind, it was her job after all, and you'd never make her pick between you and her job. You know how hard she worked to achieve all of this.

And safe to say, she showed all that care and love she has today. She took you out on a picnic date. Sure, it may be simple but it's the cutest thing ever to you. She put so much effort into everything, to find a more secluded place, to find comfortable blankets she even cooked everything! To be honest, you could tell it was cooked by her. It didn't taste exactly good, but you'd never tell her. Not that you mind either way. You love her for who she is, just like she loves you for you.

"Actually...I have one more surprise for you baby"

She let a giggle that was almost as adorable as herself.

"Oh god, you really didn't have to Nay...this already so much"

"Are kidding? This is barely anything!"

"No, really. I mean it..."

She laid a kiss on your forehead and stood up.

"Wait here!"

You waited patiently and in less than two minutes she was back. Her smile covering almost half of her face.

"Close your eyes!"

Excitement was so visible on her face she seemed just like child on its way to get some ice cream. You chuckled and closed your eyes. Then, you felt a box in your hand.

"Open it up!"

And you did as said. At that moment, you laid your eyes upon the most spectacular ring you've ever seen in your entire life. It was a golden ring, with a ruby on top circled with silver. It was definitely expensive...it would be shame for you to put it on your hands...

Nayeon frowned at your expression.

"Baby? You don't like it...?"

"W-what no! Of course no! I love it! It's just that uhm...I'm not sure it's meant for uh my hands..."

She went a step closer.

"What are you talking about? Your hands are perfect! I mean they're hands like hands!"

You chuckled slightly.

"Well I'm not exactly sure that chubby and short is the exact standard for perfection"

Nayeon let out a sigh as she went even closer to you.

"Are you hearing yourself? Your hands are beautiful, just like the rest of you. C'mon...put it on! I know you want to!"

She saw you hesitantly slide the ring onto your fingers when you gasped in awe. It was truly the most eye-opening piece of jewelry you've seen.

"See? I knew you would love it!"

"It's fantastic Nayeon, really. I don't know what to do to thank you for that enough, really..."

Nayeon smirked slightly.

"Well, you could start by showing me what those hands of yours can do tonight."

[bcxsanson]

A Halloween thread — Part 1/12

—Probably rate e for horror and thriller elements—

It is supposed to be the season of change, of art. But this year's Shūbun is a chilly dreary affair, quite atypical for the time of year. The autumn equinox stars have just passed the firmament, skipping the milder weather all together. The seasonal changes are already underway and the leaves have started to turn. Luscious vibrant greens make way for shades of gold and red as the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter. It is an all too familiar sight to Katsuki who walks his usual rounds over the cemetery grounds. Briskly he strides past graves of Christians and Buddhists alike, eyes wandering the space impassively.

Of course nothing ever happens around here, he is good at his job. He has been doing it for decades at this point and takes pride in his work as a Kirk Grim.

It has been long since believed that if one buries a dog on newly consecrated ground, its spirit would guard the premises. When the westerners came across the sea, wishing to trade for teas and silks, so too did they bring their new religion of the singular almighty god that offered absolution. Missionaries were quick to erect churches and share their beliefs despite the shogun's disapproval. Although initially intriguing, the fad died quickly due to the prosecution and now, even though there are officially no more Christians or gaijins and missionaries to be found on the land of the rising sun, he still remains as proof, guarding those who had not been cremated as per Buddhist or Shinto beliefs, but rather buried according to the wishes of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.

For many years nothing much changes on his dutiful watch. Once or twice a grave robber tries his luck, but they are quickly chased away when he shifts his form into that of a big golden fur wolf and snaps at their ankles, but that had been the height of excitement. Rumours quickly spread of a ‘wild dog’ on the ground and thieves had veered clear of the space since. The only visitors are those of the people still secretly practising the hidden religion in the dead of night, praying to the deceased and the lord under the cover of the moonless night. When they come, he takes the form of a tall man, with spiky blond hair similar to those who have bound him to this place. Upon saying the deceased’s name, he guides them across the plot to their loved ones so they may speak in private. When they are done, he guides them safely back to the living, offering safe passage so as to not be spirited away.

Tonight is supposed to be a night like any other. The orange harvest moon rises high and shines brightly, illuminating the low hanging mist swirling over the ground, which is stirred by the faintest wind from the sudden shift in temperature. That is when his ruby eyes spy her in the latest hour, at the peak of the moon’s bearing across the zenith. Silently she stands just beyond his realm, beyond his church’s consecrated ground.

A girl, as pale as the full moon itself with round cheeks.

He watches her.

It has been years since there has been a new arrival, even more since someone has been buried on his turf.

The new arrival herself is still. The wind, however, makes sure she grabs his attention. Chestnut brown hair billows with the cold wind and whips around her face. Her torn white dress, stained with blood and dirt, hangs loosely on her small frame as she simply stands there, gazing at the cemetery, while wordless tears tumble over her cheeks.

“Oi!” Katsuki calls out, but she does not move.

“Oi!”, he shouts again, and this time she slowly turns to him. The white fabric is torn at the front and reveals several stab wounds to her chest. The gashes run deep and messily overlap. As his eyes wander over her, he finds her neck is bruised with large dark blue hand marks.

Katsuki swallows against the lump in his throat.

It has been a long time since someone arrived unscheduled and in such a manner - dying a death so obviously violently.

The consecrated ground he watches is rich and sanctified despite the dead resting beneath the surface and the missionaries no longer tending to them. Doused with holy water and purified with psalms spoken to guide and help restless souls, they are a beacon to the lost. Those not buried here, wandering and lost spirits, often make their way here to try and find peace and safe passage.

To where, he does not know. The great beyond? The next life? Salvation?

Perhaps she is one of them. Searching for something he can never attain, eternally bound to this place. He should assist her before she turns, before she becomes a ghoul and haunts the living, and torments the innocent, but it does not fall within his responsibilities. He is to guard the ones within his realm, not beyond. Still, he can’t help but think she looks familiar.

“You can’t be here!”, he calls out.

From the distance he sees her open her mouth but not a single word falls from her lips despite them moving. Her pale hands race to her throat, as her eyes grow wider.

Sufficiently intrigued, Katsuki jumps down from his perch and steps closer. Slowly he approaches the fence - the border of his abandoned forgotten domain, the ever eternal yokai and that of the fleeting living mortals.

“If you’re not buried here, you cannot enter.”, he explains with his hands in his pockets and a shrug. “I don’t make the rules.”

He does not know if it is a spell or something else, but no spirit of the dead can enter the holy ground he guards. For all he knows it is a charm the gaijin have etched into the wood that he is unaware of or the fancy iron fence marking the fringe of his responsibilities.

Lifting her hand, she points to the far side of the graveyard, towards the mound with the withered sakura standing and he frowns.

“Either you talk or you fuck off, I can’t read minds.”, he mutters.

The night is long and he has duties to fulfil. He does not feel like spending the night trying to explain to a ghost that she cannot enter. Her lips tremble and the tears spill, shimmering like sweet water pearls in the moonlight as they trickle down ghastly pale, round cheeks. As she tears her mouth open, a piercing wail fills the air.

He flinches.

The howling screech accompanies the wind and simultaneously sends the crows to the heavens in an uproar and him to his knees. His hands shoot up to cover his ears, he slams his eyes shut and curls in on himself as much as possible to save himself from the cacophonous onslaught.

Inexplicably, and all too suddenly, the gust of wind lets up and the piercing sound disappears as instantaneously as it began. Looking up he blinks, the girl is gone, as is the moon which is now hiding behind the thick dark clouds.

Where she stood remains a bloody pair of footprints and is all the proof he has of her visit, though they do not last long. The first drop of rainfall douses the land in a chilly embrace, muddying and erasing all trace of her ever having stood there.

[davidthephoneguy]

Ok Doctor Who ramble time after watching the two newest episodes which for reference I did still love and enjoy overall Also spoilers for parts of the episodes

Lets go, ok so I think the one thing i've been finding odd is the reuse of older quotes and shot compositions from older Russel T Davies episodes. Like in this one Ruby talks about how the world didn't end in 1963 which is worded almost exactly to what Martha says in The Shakespears code ('...am I missing something here? The world didn’t end in 1599. It just didn’t. Look at me, I’m living proof.') And the scene in Space Babies in which they stand infront of the large window feels eerily similar in shot composition and location to one of the first shots in Rose's second episode The End of the World, which also has the same scene of having her phone boosted and calling her mum.

Just things I've noticed that are either meant to be intentional call backs or just lazy reusing things that worked last time.

Also smaller gripe as The Beatles are one of my hyper fixation I am still so disappointment how little they are in the episode :( I don't think Ringo even gets a line in and George is just as easily dismissed, both writing some pretty good songs for the band (George writing the one song most people know of the group 'Here comes the sun') also John didn't wear those glasses at the time, like he was deeply insecure about needing glasses which could have also been a thing in the episode if they wanted to use the beatles in the story. It could be an endearing moment of showing their weakness and being able to start to bond to be friends to team up against the monster. They way they should have actually advertised the episode is 'The beatles appear twice and just exist I guess' Maybe the dance number at the end could have worked if the song was like tied to the musicians rather then repeating there's a twist at the end cause it would be cooler if it was a more hidden phrase. THEY COULD HAVE DONE THE SONG TWIST AND SHOUT MY GOD I JUST REALISED- THAT COULD GET ACROSS WHAT THEY WANTED THE SAME WAY AND FEEL MORE SUBTLE CAUSE ITS A SONG THAT ALREADY EXISTS AND JUSTIFIES ITSELF CAUSE THE BEATLES ARE THERE.) Ok i gotta stop typing now.

My apologies for length, doctor who and the beatles are both hyper fixations for me if it wasnt obvious already.

[holly-fixation]

Sprouting

Summary: It started when he was young, soon after Professor Gast left. Sephiroth tried desperately to hide it. But it hurt, and like everything in the lab, nothing hid from Hojo’s gaze.

Please enjoy.

…

Sephiroth had not left his room. He was three minutes late, three minutes Hojo would rectify through more rigorous training. This was completely unnecessary and disrespectful. 

That boy would learn obedience no matter the circumstances. He had two minutes before the scientist broke the door down. 

“Sephiroth,” Hojo spat with two bangs on the metal door, “get out here.”

“I can't!” The boy's response came much faster than it should have if the boy was telling the truth. 

“Sephiroth.”

“I can't! I really can't!”

“Then unlock the door so we can treat this ailment properly.”

“No!” The child rapidly denied. “No no no- I'll be okay! I just need to stay here until I'm okay! I'll work twice as hard tomorrow! Promise!”

“'I promise', you insufferable child,” The scientist corrected. “And my answer is still no. Stop being so annoying.” Then Hojo heard sobbing. Low, attempted, quiet sobbing, but sobbing nonetheless. 

“I don't wanna be bad… I don’t- I really don’t… Just let me be bad today and I'll be really really really good tomorrow…”

“You will be perfect even if I need to rip out all your worthless imperfections myself, boy!” This bang stung his hand, but he felt no pain. “Open. This. Door. Now!” 

“NO!”

These fruitless minutes already irritated the scientist, but this childish temper tantrum filled him with rage. He slipped his key into the lock and opened the door himself.

Every object was thrown or shoved to every section of the room. Books from the fallen shelf were ripped and open faced on the floor. The mattress rested against the far wall, the bed frame dented and splintering. All loose folders and papers littered the ground, but some were stained with drops of blood. Claw marks marred every wall and surface, some even stained red with bleeding fingertips. But the deepest crimson led to the bathroom.

Still no sign of the boy. 

Hojo grabbed the inner door and tried to jerk it open. A metallic clatter responded from the lock. He didn't warn or ask, inserting a separate key. 

The smell of copper hit him like a wall. 

A ruby explosion soiled every surface, heavy drops running down the mirror as rain does a window. Flecks of beige and white freckled every inch, some even dyed pink with time. The toilet, the sink, the mirror, all were subjected to the same fate. Except for the shower. 

The curtain rod fractured in two, its steel speared points without any red. In the resulting bathtub laid the cardinal sullied curtain that trembled over the boy, blocking and protecting him from sight. However, nothing could muffle his petering sobs.

Only one theory ran through Hojo's mind: did this boy harm himself? Did he try to kill himself? This psychotic break could shut down the program completely, and the boy's life would be terminated to confirm no possibility of continuation outside of Shinra's sight. No. Word could not spread, no matter what. This was unacceptable. 

The scientist clutched the tip of the white plastic curtain, but the boy yelped sharply in pain and jerked him off, twisting and writhing and clenching away but not touching the wall.

“Hojo, please! I-I can stop this! I-I just need time!”

“Let me see it.” He would assess the boy's injuries himself.

The boy shook his head vigorously, and only then did Hojo realize something else was wrong. 

The curtain moved from the bottom of the tub near the drain. Two lumps pinning the curtain remained by his head, obviously his hands, and two others remained at the end of the tub, his bare feet. The single position that could justify the boy's orientation was simply laying down, so what was this large mass sticking above the walls of the tub, tenting the curtain to its limits?

“Let me see it so we can get you the care you clearly need. This isn't up for debate, Sephiroth.”

“It still hurts too much! Please!”

Hojo reached for it again, this time with a bit more caution.

The boy screamed, “WAIT!” 

The voracity in the child's voice made the scientist delay for a moment but only with a very good reason. 

“H-here…” Sephiroth hesitantly released his death grip on the fabric and handed a single corner to his caretaker. “Please… please be careful…”

Hojo took the offering and yanked the fabric up, allowing the boy to suffer the least from its removal as Hojo came face to face with a massive gray wing. 

The wing was proportional to Sephiroth's entire body, at least the span that he was tall. Each feather was perfect down, soft and fuzzy and useless for flight even if the boy had two wings. No, he only had one rooted in his right shoulder blade, somehow connected with a ball in socket joint just as a shoulder itself. It was folded but upward, not touching any obstacles or objects in the room. Sephiroth, however, was face down, trembling, as he carved more scratches in the porcelain like a kneading cat, reaching futility for any kind of relief. Both the wing and the boy were covered in blood and bone debris, but the elbow of the wing also held torn skin.

Hojo scanned and scanned, conflicted deep in his chest. On one hand, this was an incredible discovery, Jenova's cells mimicking even creatures he had not seen out of books. On the other, the child before him was deathly pale, the lost blood and unhealed damage actually threatening the boy’s life. The project itself was threatened.

“Get up,” Hojo grabbed the boy's hand and pulled him to his feet, genuinely avoiding any contact with the newborn wing. He grabbed the child by the waist and hoisted the boy over the tub. 

“I can't train today…” The boy begged as he was pulled out of his cell.

“We're going to the exam room.”

“No- wait- Hojo, please don't touch it-”

“I’ll take X-rays first and determine where to go from there. If it’s still uselessly sensitive, an orderly will bring you pain medication.”

“Th-There’s medicine for pain?”

“Only for absolute emergencies, so don’t ask for any.” They entered the room, and Sephiroth climbed up and laid face down on the cot. Hojo’s black eyes analyzed the growth. “A surgical procedure is necessary.”

“What will a procedure do?”

“We'll find connections between the wing and your body. Muscles, tendons, veins, arteries. Possibly gain some answers as to how it appeared. Now stop asking questions and stay perfectly still.”

Sephiroth nodded, looking down. “Yes, sir…”

.

.

.

.

Thanks for reading!

[chocolatechibi]

Nuts n Dolts week: Day 5

@nuts-and-dolts-week

Prompt: wedding

Our First Wedding

“And the next one to be married will beeeee…!”

With those words from the golden haired girl, Blake tossed the bouquet of paper flowers over her shoulder.

Immediately, two sets of tiny hands were thrown out, fumbling against each other, and the open maw of a dog, to try to get at the flowers—and the next wedding promised to them.

The stems were nearly in reach, and finally, one little hand made its way to them, fingers wrapping around and clenching tight.

“I did it!” she shrieked, thrusting the bouquet up into the air, “I get to get married!”

“Guys! To the garden!” Blake urged, and everyone rushed to get going.

The newlyweds, a.k.a. the two smiley, blushing nine year olds, were the first ones outside, bursting out the old garden door arm in arm.

The two seven year olds followed behind them, cheering, while the dog ran and barked. The young ‘next to be married’ still clutched her paper flowers tight.

“Penny, the rice!” she cried.

“On it, fiancé Ruby!” Penny cried, spilling birdseed out into Ruby’s outstretched palm.

“You can’t call me that, I haven’t asked the question yet!”

“Oh right, yes friend Ruby, I have no idea what question you mean at all, I didn’t say anything!”

Yang stifled a giggle at the stumbling awkwardness of her younger sister and her fiancé to be.

The two younger girls made quick work with the birdseed as soon as Blake and Yang made it to the center of the garden. Little seeds flew over their heads and into their hair as the two younger girls cried out excitedly about throwing rice for weddings. Instead of rice, they threw birdseed, seeing as it was better for the birds (and it was all they had), but they pretended it was rice.

Blake brushed seeds off her cat ears, her other hand still holding Yang’s tight, a happy blush on her face. Yang’s smile was equally bright. She licked the pink ring pop on her finger.

“Yang!” Blake gasped, “What’re you doing? You can’t eat your wedding ring!”

“I told you not to get her a candy one!” Ruby shouted, making Penny giggle.

Zwei barked, as if in agreement. That, or he was just barking at the neighbor’s cat through the fence.

“Don’t worry, I still have the other one,” Yang reassured, pushing forward the candy to reveal the little purple plastic band on her finger.

Blake had a matching yellow one. It was cheap and plastic, but she would treasure it always.

“Plus, the candy’s in my belly now, it’ll be with me forever!” Yang reasoned.

“I’m not sure that’s-“ Penny began, but stopped before she could finish.

She gasped and rushed to cover Zwei’s eyes as Yang kissed Blake on the cheek.

Ruby squealed.

“My big sister, already married! How time does fly!” she cried dramatically.

“Well, speaking of weddings, don’t you have a question to ask, Ruby?” Yang questioned her younger sister, grinning.

“Oh, ohh, I do!” Ruby said excitedly, hugging the flowers tight, “Oh, actually, here Blake, I can’t hold them right now.”

She held the bouquet out to Blake, who took it in the hand that wasn’t still holding Yang’s.

“Penny Polendina!” Ruby announced dramatically, turning to the little girl beside her, “You’re my best friend and I love you. Nothing would make me happier than if you became my wife.”

Ruby dropped to one knee before the girl, taking Penny’s hand into hers.

“Penny, will you marry me?”

“Say yes! Say yes!” Blake and Yang cheered, but Penny didn’t need to be told twice.

“Yes! I will, I will!”

The youngest girl flung herself at Ruby, knocking them both to the ground where they hugged, squealing with giggles.

“This was the best idea!” Yang yelled, “I love being married, and now my little sister’s finding happiness too!”

All four girls cheered.

Playing wedding had started out as a fun little whim, and now it felt like the most real thing in the world to them.

“Hey, what’re you doing?” a voice shouted.

The girls in the garden turned around to see a familiar head of green hair poke over the fence. It was the neighbor girl, Emerald.

“We got married!” Blake and Yang yelled back, holding up their hands to show off their matching rings.

“Whoa! I wanna do that!”

“Well, find someone to marry and we’ll throw you guys a wedding!” Yang offered.

Emerald thought for a moment, mumbling to herself.

“I wonder if she’d want to…? Probably not…”

“What was that?” Yang called.

Emerald blushed.

“Oh, I- nothing! I’ll get back to you if I find someone! Later!”

With that she hopped down from the fence and back into her own yard. The girls watched through the slats as she picked up her cat and rushed inside.

Emerald was only eight, just a kid like the other girls. It was the time for cute, silly, childhood romance, with holding hands and sharing ice cream, and maybe the occasional kiss on the cheek if you were as mature and committed as Blake and Yang.

Emerald, however? My god. There was no doubt in anyone’s mind that a six season soap opera could have been written about her continuous, hopeless pining for nine year old Cinder Fall, who lived down the street. Those two were something else. Cinder was kind of mean and cold towards Emerald, and the other girls found her scary, and yet Emerald still adored her. It wasn’t subtle. Rumors had even been spread around the playground that the two had kissed, though no one knew if it was actually true. Overall, they simply had much too much drama for kids their age.

“Blake?”

Penny tugged on Blake’s sleeve.

“Yep?” the Faunus girl asked.

She was being really smiley, still riding on the excitement of playing wedding.

“Will you help me get ready for my wedding?” Penny asked sweetly.

“Of course! You helped me look pretty for mine!”

Blake twirled around, the skirt of her purple dress twirling. Her cat ears flicked atop her head, almost blending into her long dark hair.

“Oh oh! People dance at weddings! It’s time to dance!” Ruby cried.

However, it was just then that the back door swung open.

“Girls!” called Ruby and Yang’s dad.

“Not now Dad!” Yang called, to which Taiyang just laughed, coming into the garden anyway.

“Penny’s dad is here to pick her up.”

“Noooooooo!” all four girls cried, hugging onto each other.

“We were gonna dance for the-“ Ruby began, getting cut off by Blake.

“We were gonna dance!” the cat eared girl said hurriedly.

The girls had agreed that it would all be more fun if they waited to tell people. The wedding had been held in secret! Well, as secretive as children could be saying made up wedding vows in the living room.

“I know you’re having fun, but you guys can have another playdate this weekend,” Taiyang said, attempting to reason with the kids.

It didn’t work.

“But today’s Thursday! The weekend’s days away!” Yang said.

“I’m sure you’ll survive. Penny, honey, you have to go now.”

“Okay,” Penny said sadly, turning to her friends and lowering her voice, “Please don’t have the wedding without me.”

“Of course not, it’s your wedding! We’ll hold it on the weekend, and we’ll dance then,” Yang reassured her.

“Okay. I’m ready then.”

Penny gave each girl a hug, saying her last congrats to the newlyweds and an ‘i love you’ to Ruby before following Taiyang away.

“Well,” Yang said once she was gone, “What’re we waiting for? We’ve still got some time before Blake has to go home, and we’ve got a wedding to plan!”

“Yeah,” Blake agreed.

“Hey Emerald!” Ruby shouted as loud as her kid lungs would allow towards Emerald’s house.

When there was no response, she simply tried again. Still no sign of the girl. Yang picked up a pebble and threw it. It made a little sound as it smacked off the glass of Emerald’s bedroom window. Her house was so close that the kids did this often. They didn’t even consider the fact that they could very well break her window one of these days, or that they could just walk over to her house next door. They just threw pebbles until she opened the window.

“What?” Emerald hollered, pushing open the window as she pulled a pair of green and black headphones away from her ears.

“Wanna come to my wedding?” Ruby asked.

Emerald considered it for a minute, before nodding.

“Okay, what time?”

“Saturday!”

“I’ll be there!”

—

The next day, Ruby met Penny on the school bus.

“Friend Ruby!” Penny cried, hugging the other girl as she was sitting down.

“Hi Penny! Can you believe tomorrow’s the wedding? Are you nervous?” Ruby asked curiously.

“Nope! Because I’ll be with you!”

Ruby blushed happily and agreed. The two friends hugged once again.

They rushed through their classes that day. Or, they tried to. They were still the same length as ever.

When lunch finally came, Ruby and Penny sat together in their shady spot, which was a large rock beneath a tree near the playground.

“Hey Ruby!”

Ruby looked up from trying to eat her applesauce with the lid as a spoon, seeing as she had forgotten to bring one.

“I brought hello pandas! You want one?”

Penny held out a packet of the little cookies, to which Ruby squealed excitedly.

“Penny! You’re the best!”

The two made quick work of demolishing the cookies. Somehow, Ruby managed to get chocolate on her face, as she always did, but it didn’t matter to them.

“Hello pandas are so yummy!” Ruby cried blissfully.

“Hey guys?”

The girls looked up to see Emerald standing there inquisitively.

“Hey Emerald? Want a hello panda?”

Ruby held out the tiny cookie.

“What? Oh yeah, sure. I was just wondering what I should wear to the wedding,” Emerald asked, popping the sweet into her mouth.

“Oh, you’ll wanna dress your best,” Ruby said, “This is once in a lifetime kinda stuff here. Right Penny?”

“Absolutely!”

—

“Yang!”

Ruby fussed over the sash on her white and pink dress, trying to tie it perfectly.

“Help me!”

“I’ve got it, don’t worry,” Yang said, wrapping it snugly around Ruby’s waist, “You look beautiful, sis, you’ll be fine.”

“Okay! Let’s go!”

Ruby walked out into the living room, arm in arm with her big sister.

Penny stood next to Blake on the opposite side of the living room, dressed in a honeydew-green dress with a matching ribbon in her hair.

Emerald stood off to the side, watching as the two girls walked to meet each other. She wore a dark green party dress that was even fancier that the dresses of the girls getting married. Emerald had lots of them, seeing as her grandparents made her wear one every family Christmas. This one was the only one she hadn’t grown out of, though. Now, even though it was a little overly fancy, it fit surprisingly well with the mismatched look of the little living room wedding.

Zwei was there as well, wearing a bow tie that Yang had snagged from her father’s closet.

Everyone was ready for the ceremony.

Once they were all in position, Yang moved to stand beside Ruby and Penny.

“Dear family members and friends, thank you for being here today,” she announced, trying to be as formal as possible, “We are here today to celebrate the.. um-“

“Union,” Blake whispered.

“Union! The union of my beloved sister and her beloved.. Penny.”

Blake cringed a little at the clunky way the speech was going, but the littler girls seemed too excited to mind.

“Now for the vows!”

Zwei barked in approval.

“Do you, Penny, take this girl-“

“Woman!” Ruby protested.

“Woman! Do you, Penny, take this woman to be your wife. For ever?”

“I do!” Penny cried happily, smiling as Ruby slipped the pink plastic ring over her finger.

“And Ruby, to you take Penny to be your wife, as long as you live?”

“I do!”

Ruby’s ring was light green, like Penny’s dress, and she knew that as long as she was wearing it, she would always think of the girl she cared for.

“You are now married!” Yang announced, and everyone applauded (plus Zwei, who barked) as the two little girls squeezed each other in a tight hug.

“Penny, here!” Blake whispered, handing Penny a bouquet of flowers.

They were fresh picked from the garden, tiny and bright with long green stems and a lot of leaves.

“And the next one to get married is… you!” Penny cried, tossing the bouquet towards the tiny audience.

Zwei jumped for it, but it flew right over his head, instead hitting Emerald square in the chest.

“Ah!” she gasped, fumbling to grab the bouquet before it dropped to the floor.

Everyone stared at her as she stood there, clutching the small bunch of flowers to her chest. Her eyes widened.

“Wait, me?!” the green haired girl cried, gesturing to herself as everyone started to smile.

Yang started to laugh.

“Oh boy,” she said, “Here we go again!”

~~~~~

“…by. Ruby. Ruby!”

“Huh?”

The dark haired girl abruptly snapped from her reverie, giving her head a little shake to clear it.

“You were spacing.”

“Yang! I can’t believe it’s almost time!”

Ruby threw her arms out to hug her big sister, but Yang caught her hands just in time.

“It is, and you don’t wanna wrinkle your dress-“

“Oh, wrinkle it, I don’t care! I want a hug from my big sister.”

Yang grinned.

“Even better.”

The two sisters shared a tight embrace, and Ruby tried to keep the waterworks from coming, seeing as the wedding hadn’t even started yet. She succeeded, mostly.

“Yang, do you remember the first time me and Penny got married?”

Yang smiled.

“I do. We were just kids, but that felt like the most important thing in the world,” she responded, “We were so silly back then.”

“Yeah,” Ruby said, nodding, “I was so excited. It felt like a once in a lifetime experience, and yet here we are, doing it again, for real this time… I’m glad you remembered.”

“Of course I did! I think they were both real, in their own way. You know we all still have our old rings, even if they don’t fit anymore. They still matter. This one just fits better now,” Yang said, twirling the little gold band around her finger.

“Yeah,” Ruby said, nodding, “It’s all part of the journey.“

“Girls, it’s time,” came a call from outside the door.

The next thing she knew, Ruby was standing up at the altar, her sister—and maid of honor—beside her. Other girls were there as well, all the bridesmaids. Emerald stood on the other side of the little stage, next to Blake, who held baby Rin Xiao Long snugly in her arms.

Ruby watched with tears in her eyes as the music started to play, and the love of her life began her walk down the aisle, arm in arm with her father.

Penny wore a beautiful white dress, a long vail draped over her shoulder-length orange hair. It was tied up into the same style she had worn since they were kids. Now, the ribbons were white.

As she watched her, Ruby remembered a moment just like this. A moment when Penny had been just a child in a green dress, smiling joyfully for their first wedding. Ruby could see that little girl still in the young woman now standing before her.

A single tear dropped down Ruby’s pale cheek, and Penny reached up, wiping it away softly before taking her hand once again.

The wedding vows they said now were real, as were the wedding bands they slipped over each other’s fingers, but Ruby could still hear their childhood voices saying them, too. She could still feel the touch of the plastic ring on her tiny finger.

This was what they had always wanted.

Now, as Ruby stared at the girl in front of her, with whom she had promised to spend her life, she couldn’t have been happier. And she was hopeful, too. For now, not only did she see their past, but their future, too.

There will be so many more memories of me and you.

[monarchofmayhem]

@bishop-percival

(Previous) Astounding wisdom from our terrible Lord Hater. I am nodding my head and writing notes. You are truly the epitome of evil. Here's what I can do. If the stink of decay makes you queasy I can transmute the talon into black onyx, that way it'll keep its sick shape but now better fit the color scheme of your room. And not stink. The spiky thing I admit was just something I scrounged up and thought was cool because, y'know, spikes are like one of the coolest and evilest shape out there. But I can replace it with a snake statue. Snakes are a pretty cool shape too. And easy to pick up. Of course I can replace the stolen gems with cursed stolen gems! Now they'll be stolen twice over. Once from their original source, another from my priest. Just don't go directly staring at them for too long, or if you happen to hear a deep voice speaking latin to you in your dreams at night, don't be startled! Finally, I can absolutely slap some innocent souls in there. I just love the way you think. Their crying and pounding on glass will certainly add a soothing layer to the white noise~ 𖠟𖠟𖠟

It's less making me queasy and more how is anyone supposed to take me seriously when they think that rats crawled up and died in my room, you know? Peepers already nags me enough for eating in there. NOT THAT I CARE WHAT HE THINKS but he's annoying about it!

Hmmmm.... Go another level and transmute it while it's still alive. Maybe crystalize the head so it's emerald or ruby, then light it up for a second lamp in the throne room.

It's kinda a waste to just use a snake statue. You should get snleather from an endangered species! Or from some snakeperson royal!

Do me a favor and record your priest being a whiny baby. I wanna see if he'll work for my torture megamix since Peepers' scream cry is getting old.

[kaiyeti]

When did they confirmed she turn into a human?

Pietro can make a new body for Penny, he already did it twice, he can do it a third time. Also Ambrosius didn't have any body to work with Penny, in fact he wasn't the one that make Penny new body, he just took the robot parts and leave Penny soul behind, she made her new body herself out of nothing.

It never said that the core is the only way to keep Penny alive, the core is just when they store Penny aura.

Pietro gave his aura to create Penny and he was still alive, giving part of your aura doesn't kill you.

The maiden power are bound to the soul, when a maiden pass the power to another they also pass their soul, when Ozpin used the Aura Transfer Machine on Pyrrha he said that she might not be herself anymore.

Even if the machine could kill Winter, both Pietro and Ambrosius can change that.

When a maiden pass her power the transfer is the same color as their aura, when Fyra pass the power to Penny to color was blue thw same as Fyra aura but when Penny pass the power to Winter the color was yellow and there was green dots meaning that it wasn't an animation error and that somthing happend there, Penny tells Jaune "Trust me" and telling Winter "I won't be gone, I'll be part of you" she might have use Jaune aura to give all of her aura to Winter and keep herself alive through her.

Also how V9 show us that Penny is gone for good? If anything it showed the complete oppesite:

The Sword should not exist, it was gone after Cinder stab Penny and yet it still there.

The blacksmith saying "nothing, no one is truly ever lost" when Ruby talk about Penny sword.

Penny voice in Ruby head which doesn't make sense at the time because 1. Ruby didn't know that Penny died in the moment and 2. The voice was differente then the one we hear in the Central location. There is also the fact that CRWBY relese the writing of that paticiular moment as to show us that the voice is Penny.

The over abssesion with the word forever when it comes to Penny death, Ruby saying "I though It was gone forever" when seeing Penny sword in the blacksmith place, Jaune saying "And now I'll have to live with that, forever" when he talk abkut him killing Penny, and Winter "Penny is gone, forever" when talking about their losses in atlas, the empesis on forever make it look like they setting in exeptation.

Penny died in the Central Location abouve the Ever After, who said that death is working the same way there?

Penny turning "human" doesn't seem to me as a way to kill Penny permently, especially whem they show us in V7 that Pennt can die permently in her robot body by making Jaune destroying her core, it feels like the "human" body was used to trick the fans into thinking that Penny is gone for good so her second returne would be suprising.

The entier final part with Penny, including her song which is happy compare to what gappened to her and include the line "even if I can't live for real" as if she planned somthing that keep her alive but she doesn't know if it work, feels like a false ending.

Both in the show, Penny's weapons no longer existing and her robot legs being normal legs and she is bleeding red blood instead of green, and in a q&a Kerry or Ed did, I forget the when it was, But something asked why were there two Penny's and they said when she become human so indirectly confirming she was turned human.

Pietro could only made Penny's body with Atlas' resources and labs, both of which are at the bottom of a lake. So even if he could at best its a robot soldier which is bad news for Penny because those bots suck. And No Ambrosius used Penn'y robot body to make her new one as told by Ruby, This is why her old robot body disappeared and she didn't. That is why Ambrosius was so excited because he wasn't sure if Penny's robot body was going to be enough and if Penny's soul was going to fill in the rest.

The Core stored Penny's aura which is her soul. In volume 7 Pietro even said to restart/revive Penny he needed to give another pick of his soul to the core to bring Penny back because THAT is was is housing Penny to her robot body.

In that same episode he admitted that he uses his own Aura to Make Penny's and worries that if she is deactived one more time he won't be able to reactivate her because he may not have enough. Now considering he is a father you know he would do anything to save Penny even if it means giving up all or his aura and no aura mean bye bye.

The original soul of the previous Maiden merges with the maiden powers and disappears. Otherwise Every maiden which be like Oz and considering you have multiple examples of that NOT happened its say to say the previous maidens are with the new one because if you recall you just have to be the last person they think of and I'm pretty sure Raven doesn't have the spring maiden before her in her head. THAT SAID The aura transfer machine doesn't work that way because it takes the persons STILL LIVING SOUL and puts it into the other person. Oz knows that because when he made the maiden powers he made damn sure they would end up like him. That is why he is unsure if the machine will do the same.

AMBROSIUS CAN'T BRING BACK THE DEAD! And Pietro can only bring back Penny with her core and his aura.

Pretty sure that was either a design error, after all Penn'y aura is green or because it was the first time we see Maiden powers transfer natural between to people that are far apart and both unconscious. And don't bring Jaune into this. He stabbed her so he was not long giving her aura.

The reason why I say vol 9 shows Penny is gone for good is because THEY MISSED EVER SINGLE OPPURTUNITY TO BRING HER OR A PIECE OF HER BACK TO REMNANT TO BRING HER BACK!

The sword didn't disappear when Cinder stabbed her they just fell but they were made by Penny using both her aura and Maiden powers meaning that held a piece of her, AND NO ONE MANAGE TO KEEP ONE TO BRING BACK!

Yeah, that's how souls that move one to the after life and keeping memories of loved ones work, Summer was in her ax to remember and she may not be dead.

If you are talking about the first episode of vol 9, girl just fell into another universe after crazy ice cream mute tried to kill her on the way down. SHe is going to hear some shit as her break down starts and it wasn't just Penny's voice.

Yeah because no one thought to ask that Blacksmith, akak the tree aka the mother of the gods Two bring back or give them Penny's soul in sword form! She is gone forever!

The problem with that is she didn't die in the Ever After, Her body is a corpse when it enters. And you need to drink the tea or let the tree take you to get brought back. After all, The cat killed Alyx and she didn't get to come back.

So recap Penny was turned into a human, losing her core that allowed the possibility for her to be brought back, and died in the void by Jaune because the writers keep forgetting that he is NOT the main character and doesn't need to be a major focus in every volume. AKA They perma killed one of the best characters to keep Jaune focus relevant in the show.