#like I can respect that. the rest of y’all get your unable to accept blame or responsibility for your actions asses off my damn porch

[ziracona]

I didn’t know literally all the companions you can take to the Fade in DA2 sans Anders will sell you out and try to kill you and their friends for a demon deal I’m losing my shit. I knew Merrill did bc she did it to me but apparently anyone but JustAnders will ditch your ass to make a deal with a demon and I’m absolutely going insane

[4stars-uswnt]

If I Hated You [Alex Morgan x Reader]

requested by anon: Hey I love your works!! I was wondering if you could do a fic based on fletcher’s new song ‘if I hated you’ with Alex x reader, if possible with an eventual happy ending? If not I totally understand but thank you so much for all the fics you’ve shared and done for us.

requested by @eclipses77​: Hey I was wondering if you could write a fix based off Fletcher’s new song ‘If I Hated You’ with any person you want but with a happy ending if possible.

A/N: thank you to both of you who requested this! and to the anon: i’m so glad you enjoy my fics. i have a great time writing them for you guys. 

this isn’t really a song fic with lyrics and everything. it’s mainly just inspired Fletcher’s song, so i hope y’all still enjoy it anyways :) also i may have gotten a little carried away with it.

ps. thanks to @sauceysonny​ for talking through this prompt with me and letting me rant through my ideas

warnings: swearing

Listen to “If I Hated You” by Fletcher here

You throw the sheets off your body for what feels like the hundredth time that night. You had been tossing and turning, unable to sleep with the other side of the bed being so empty. You reach for your phone to check the time. 2:13 am. The photo on the lock screen makes your heartache. It was a photo of you and Alex that Kelley had captured in the locker room after the World Cup, your foreheads pressed together, oblivious to the rest of the world. Shutting your phone off, you turn over and stare at the ceiling, trying to figure out how you’d gotten here.

—————

“I can’t wait to see you this weekend.” You chirp, smiling at your girlfriend through your computer screen. There had been a week break in the NWSL season, so Alex had decided to visit you up in Seattle for a couple of days.

Alex gives you a sheepish look. Being able to read your girlfriend like a book, you feel yourself deflate with defeat.

“You’re not coming, are you?”

“Babe, I’m sorry. I have to go to LA for some meetings with the Olympics committee and with Angel City. I am so sorry.” Alex apologizes.

Her apologies felt useless at this point, as your girlfriend was always cancelling on you, putting you second. You look down at your hands, ignoring Alex’s gaze.

“(Y/N), I’m sorry. And I’m sorry I’ve been really busy lately.” She tries again, hoping to get a response out of you.

“You’re always busy, Al.” You mumble.

“I know, babe, and I’m sorry, but there’s not a lot I can do about it.” Alex defends.

You roll your eyes, annoyed at your girlfriend’s excuses. “Yes, Alex, there is something you can do about it. You can tell them that you already have plans. Or that you have to go visit your girlfriend, who you haven't seen in almost two months. Or that they can fucking wait because Angel City isn’t happening for another year and the Olympics aren’t for another eight fucking years.”

Alex sits on the other side of the screen stunned by your outburst. In your arguments, you were usually the calmer one, Alex being the one with the temper, but you just couldn’t hold it in any longer.

You sigh, tired of fighting with the other woman. “Al, maybe we should just take a break.”

“What?” Alex sits up at that, leaning closer to the screen.

“Look, I know we love each other and everything, but recently it just feels like our relationship is strained by the distance and all of our commitments.”

“You mean my commitments.” Alex countered.

“I didn’t say that, Alex. Stop putting words in my mouth. We are both to blame here. I just feel like we need some time to ourselves to figure out what we want from this relationship.”

Your heart aches, as the words leave your mouth, and as you see tears form in Alex’s eyes.

“Are you sure? Because I don’t wanna take a break.” She whispered.

“Al, I don’t wanna take a break either, but all we’ve been doing lately is arguing, and I just think we should take a little time to evaluate our own lives.” You feel tears pooling in your eyes.

“Okay, if that’s what you want, love.” Alex nods, wiping her face.

“I think it’s what we need.” You swallow the knot in your throat. “This isn’t the end, Al.”

“It better not be.” She lets out a watery chuckle, and you fondly smile.

“See you later, Ali-gator.”

Alex smiled at your nickname for her. The two of you vowed you would never actually say ‘goodbye’ to each other because you always knew you’d see each other again.

“See you in a while, crocodile.”

—————

That conversation was almost two weeks ago, and since then, you had been an absolute mess. Although you were used to being alone in Seattle, being on a break from your relationship made you feel even more lonely. In the past couple of weeks, you had barely left your apartment, only going out for training, games, and the necessary grocery shopping.

Your phone had been blowing up with text messages from your national team teammates, who were all concerned about you after hearing the news. Not bothering to give any of them any details, you responded to the group chat with an ‘I’m fine, you guys. Please respect me and Alex’s privacy.’ Alex soon replied, adding ‘What (Y/N) said. We love you guys, but we need to work through this ourselves.’ Both of your texts received many hearts and likes, following with ‘We’re here’ and ‘Love you guys’ from the women, and the texts stopped after that.

In Orlando, Alex hadn’t been faring any better. After returning from LA, she spent most of her time moping around her house in sweatpants and a hoodie she’d stolen from you. Ali, Ash, and Syd would all stop by or invite her over to cheer her up, but Alex was heartbroken without you.

—————

The next morning, after having gone to bed at around 3 am, you slip on a pair of shorts and one of Alex’s Cal hoodies and drag yourself to training.

As you walk into the locker room, Allie and Megan exchange a look of concern, noticing the bags under your eyes and your hood pulled over your head. Your two national team teammates had been worried about you for the past couple of months, even more so in the recent weeks when you and Alex had decided to take a break. They knew the distance was causing you stress, and now the separation was causing you heartbreak. But every time either woman tried to approach the subject, you shut them out, insisting you were okay, when you clearly were not.

Towards the end of practice, after another one of your passes goes awry, Farid calls you over.

“(Y/N), you doing okay?” He asks, eyebrows furrowed. He had heard the whispers in the locker room, your teammates voicing their concerns, and he could tell something was bothering you, so much so it was disrupting your play.

“Yes, coach.”

Not wanting to push you, he hums. “Okay, then you better start playing like you’re doing okay.”

You nod, embarrassed by your own unprofessionalism. “Of course, coach, sorry.”    

He blows the whistle, ending practice, and you scurry back to the locker room.

Back in the locker room, as you’re taking off your cleats and packing up your bag, Allie slips into the seat next to you.

“(Y/N), you wanna come over later?” Allie places a hand on your knee. “We’re having a barbecue. Megan and Sue will also be there.”

You snort. “And be a fifth wheel? I’m good, Allie, but thanks for the invite.”

“(Y/N),” she starts again, “even though I’m Alex’s best friend doesn’t mean I don’t care about you either. Megan and I, and the whole team really, are here if you ever wanna talk.”

“Thanks, Allie.” You smile, as you stand up, swinging your backpack over your shoulder. “Maybe I’ll stop by for a little bit.”

“Awesome.”

—————

Later than evening, you made your way over to Allie and Bati’s place, ultimately deciding that being a fifth wheel was better than sitting at your apartment alone with another box of takeout.

You enter through the side gate, heading into the backyard, where Bati is barbecuing and Megan, Allie, and Sue are chatting around the table. Hearing you open the gate, Bati looks up from the grill.

“Hey! Look who made it!” He gives you a big grin, opening his arm up for a side hug, which you accept.

“Hey, Jose. Thanks for having me.” You softly smile.

“Of course, (Y/N).”

“Aye! (Y/N)! Get your butt over here!” Megan calls from across the yard, waving you over.

“The queen is calling, so I must go.” You joke, making your way over to the table.

“(Y/N/N), I’m glad you could make it.” Allie gives you a brief hug. “Do you want anything to drink?”

“Water would be great.” You thank her, before turning to Megan and Sue.

“Long time no see, Birdie. Good game the other day. You played, eh, okay.” You smirk at the basketball player, who just rolls her eyes.

“It’s good to see you too, (Y/N/N). Thanks. A triple double is okay. But I dunno if I could say the same about you. I hear you’re not playing like the superstar you are.” Sue teases, resulting in a slap from Megan, who gives her girlfriend a warning glare.

You ignore the pink-haired woman and the ache in your chest. “Just having a couple of bad practices. I’ll be tearing up the field in no time.” You boast flippantly.

Seeing past your confident facade, Megan narrows her eyes. “Are you sure you’re okay, (Y/N)?”

“P, I’ve told you a million times. I’m fine.” You give her a tight smile, silently telling her you don’t want to talk about it.

Before Megan can ask you anymore questions, Allie and Bati approach the table with plates of food in their hands.

“Time to eat!” Allie cheers. “Oh, and, (Y/N), here’s your water.”

You mutter out a ‘thanks’, and take a large gulp, pushing down the knot forming in your throat.

—————

Dinner went smoothly the five of you discussing an array of topics, ranging from the upcoming NWSL and WNBA season to the election to the newest Italian restaurant that opened downtown.

By the time you all are finished eating, it’s dark out, leaving only the fairy lights to illuminate the yard. You go to clear your plate, but before you can stand up, Bati grabs it from you.

“Don’t worry, (Y/N/N). I got this.” He motions for you to sit back down, before reaching to collect the rest of the plates. “Why don’t I clean up and leave you ladies to chat?” Bati quickly pecks Allie’s cheek, before heading back inside.

Once it is just the four of you, Megan turns to you.

“(Y/N), seriously, how are you feeling?”

You internally groan. You should’ve known this was gonna turn into an intervention. Before you go to respond, the older forward continues.

“And don’t give me that ‘I’m fine. I’m good’ bullshit.” She raises her eyebrow, daring you to challenge her. “Because obviously you’re not fine, and you’re not good. For the past two weeks all you’ve been doing is moping around your apartment, wearing nothing but sweats. You’ve barely eaten an actual meal until today, nor gotten a good night’s sleep. And to top it all of you’ve been playing like crap!”

Sue hits Megan’s arm and scolds her. “Megan!”

The pink-haired woman faces to her girlfriend. “No! I’m not going to sugar coat it. (Y/N) needs to hear this, and she needs to talk about.” Megan turns back to you and softens. “(Y/N/N), you can’t keep bottling up all your feelings. We care about you, and we’re here to listen, so please talk to us.”

Both Allie and Sue nod along with Pinoe’s words.

“Honestly,” you take a deep breath, before starting, “I’m a mess. Like before, I was annoyed and angry that Al was making me a second priority, but now I’m just sad and heartbroken that she’s not here with me.” You finally confess to the other women, feeling like a weight has been lifted off your chest. “And, I mean, I didn’t want to take a break, but our relationship just felt strained. Like we weren’t communicating, and I think the distance was getting the best of us, especially with all of our commitments. I don’t know. Do you guys think I made the right decision?”

Not knowing what to say, the three woman look at each other, searching for answers. Finally, Sue speaks up.

“(Y/N), none of us can know if you made the right decision.” She reaches to squeeze your hand. “Only you and Alex can know what’s right for yourselves and your relationship.”

You nod in understanding. “I love her so much, and I wish we could just be together because all I want is to be by her side.” You whisper, your eyes getting misty. “Ugh, I just miss her so much.”

“I miss you, too.”

You whip your head around. There, in all her glory, stood Alex Morgan. She doesn’t look any better than you, your Reign sweatshirt hiding her muscular frame and dark circles forming under her eyes. Your lips part, as you’re completely speechless.

“You’re car wasn’t in your lot, so I assumed you were either here or at Pinoe’s. This was my first stop, and here you are.” Alex shifts uncomfortably in the silence, her usual confidence faded.

You turn back to face Allie, Megan, and Sue, your eyes narrowing. “Did you three know about this?”

“No!” They all exclaim, Megan holding up her hands in innocence. You continue to stare at Allie, not convinced she had no part in this.

“I swear, (Y/N), I had no idea about this.” She insists, as you relent your accusatory glare.

“(Y/N),” Alex comes up from behind you, “they had nothing to do with this, so please don’t be mad at them. I came here all on my own because I wanted to talk to you. I needed to see you.”

You nod. “Ok.”

“So, can we talk?” She sheepishly asks. “Alone, if that’s okay with you?” She adds, pleading her friends to leave you two to talk.

The three women take the cue and head back inside, leaving you alone with Alex, who sits in Pinoe’s seat across from you.

You sit in awkward silence for a few minutes, neither of you knowing where to start.

You decide to break the silence. “How’ve you been?”

She looks up from her fidgeting hands. “Uhh. Good. I’ve been good.”

You smirk, raising your eyebrow. “Al, c’mon, I know you like the back of my hand. How have you actually been?”

Alex sighs. “To be honest, I’ve been miserable.” She looks up, locking eyes with you. “I missed you, and I just wanted be with you, or even just hear your voice.”

You nod, knowing the feeling. “I missed you too, Al.”

“But you were right.” She confesses, as you tilt your head, confused. “We, or at least I, needed this break. It helped me realize what was important in my life, and that’s you, (Y/N). I can live without all those brand deals and sponsors, hell, I can even live without soccer, because none of that means anything if I can’t share it with you.”

By that point, both you openly had tears streaming down your faces.

“So, I promise to be better and to be more committed to our relationship. And I’m sorry that I ever put you as a second priority because you’re not. You’re my number one.” Alex concludes, wiping the tears from your cheeks.

You let out a small chuckle at her cheesiness. “Thank you for your apology.” You take her hand. “And I’m sorry that didn’t make enough of an effort either.” Before Alex can protest, you squeeze her hand. “Al, a relationship is between two people. This wasn’t just your fault, okay? We both played a part.” You assure, quelling her guilt.

“So can we end this break and be back together?” Alex whispers hesitantly.

Beaming, you pull her in for a searing kiss, your first in almost three months. Her soft lips melt against yours, and you could taste the sweetness of her vanilla chapstick mixed with the saltiness of her tears. Before you could deepen the kiss, you hear Allie call from inside.

“No sex in my yard please!”

You rest your head on Alex’s shoulder, as the two of you laugh at your friend’s antics. Your girlfriend caresses your cheek, guiding you to lock eyes with her pleading blue orbs.

“Do you forgive me?”  

You nod. “Yes, Al, I forgive you.”

“Good. I thought you hated me.” She mumbles.

“I could never hate you, even if I tried.”

Alex smiles, leaning in for another kiss, before you hold up your hand.

“But, Al, your words are nice and all, but I have to see it. You have to prove to me that you’re committed to this relationship, especially if it’s long distance. And I will work to do the same. Okay?”

“Of course, (Y/N/N).” She nods her head eagerly. “So, I’m guessing it’s okay if I stayed here with you in Seattle for the next week?”

Your eyes widen. “What?”

“They had to cancel training and matches for the next week because of some flooding issues at the facilities. So I’m all yours until next Sunday. That is, if you’ll have me.”

You jump off your seat and into Alex’s lap, pulling her in for another kiss. “Who am I to refuse such a pretty lady?” You tease, giving her nose a kiss.

“Alex and (Y/N) sitting in a tree…!” Allie sings, as her, Megan, and Sue approach the two of you.

“I take it you two made up?” Megan gestures to your position in Alex’s lap.

“Yes, we made up.” You grin, as your girlfriend kiss the top of your head.

“Good. I’m glad.” She returns a smile, and you mouth a ‘thank you’ to her.

“Me too.” Alex beams, turning to look at you. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.” You bring her in for a sweet chaste kiss.

“Hey! What did I say about no sex in my yard!” Allie playfully scolds.

“It’s not my fault (Y/N) can’t keep her hands off me.” Alex smirks.

You gasp, jumping out of your girlfriend’s laugh. “Hey!”

“I’m only kidding, babe.” She rolls her eyes, pulling you back into her lap.

You cross your arms and pout. “I hate you.”

Alex chuckles, as she buries her face in your neck, giving you a kiss. “No you don’t.”

You smile, turning to the woman you love, and give her a quick peck. “You’re right. I don’t.”

[tessisawriter]

Dance With Me (Alex Turcotte)

Request (anonymous): If you write for Alex Turcotte could you do a really cute imagine where you’re a dancer and he comes to one of your performances and fluffiness ensues and then later that night after showering and stuff he’s like, “can you teach me to dance?” All shy and stuff and you just laugh and y’all are slow dancing in your room and it’s just super cuteeee

A/N: Yes I do write for Alex, and I’ve been meaning to do an imagine for him for a while! I took several modern dance classes in college (I’m far from advanced though) so this was really fun to write 💜🖤 It features two of Alex’s Wisco teammates, Owen Lindmark and the subject of my next imagine, Cole Caufield.

Warnings: One swear word

Word Count: 2.3k

If a genie came to you and said it could grant you one wish, you would wish for Alex to be in the auditorium right now.

You met Alex Turcotte at the beginning of the school year when he was wandering around one of the many campus buildings, clearly lost. You had no idea that he was a hockey star; he just looked like another clueless freshman. Since you were a sophomore, you went up to him and asked if he needed directions, which he gratefully accepted. Alex left with the directions to his class and your phone number, and the rest was history.

You and Alex had been dating for a little less than five months now, and tonight was the big mid-semester showcase for your advanced modern dance class. Dancing had been your passion since you were little, and after coming to Wisco, you quickly rose through the ranks to become the first sophomore in over a decade to be one of the principal dancers in the end-of-the-semester showcase in December. 

This was your second showcase as principal dancer, and you were so proud. You just wished Alex could see it. He did too, but unfortunately, one of his hockey games overlapped with the performance because your class was slated to open the entire show. Still, you were peeking through the curtain concealing the stage and scanning the crowd for his dark hair and dimples.

“He’s not coming, Y/N,” Lily said.

You closed the curtain and turned around to face your best friend since high school.

“You know he would if he could,” Lily continued. “We all know it.”

Y/N pouted. “I know it, too; I just wish he could.”

“Blame whoever scheduled the hockey games,” Lily shrugged and you laughed. “We’re on in two; time to get into position. And take your socks off,” she added, chuckling.

You smiled at Lily as she patted you on the shoulder. You were a germaphobe and the floors had countless germs on them, so you never took your socks off until right before class or a performance. You put your socks backstage before rejoining Lily to take your respective places on stage: you front and center, and Lily behind you and to your left.

As you put your feet in the right position for the opening dance move, your professor, who insisted on all of you calling her by her first name, Caroline came out and inspected the group as she walked down the line of dancers.

Caroline nodded her head once to signal approval before clapping her hands twice. “Listen up, dancers: I hope you’re ready because this is a really important showcase. I was supposed to choose my Modern VI class, but I chose you, Modern V, because you have better chemistry as a group. Don’t let me down: the head of the dance department is here.”

That ratcheted up the pressure, but you knew how to deal with it. As soon as Caroline went backstage, you imagined her in a thought bubble in your head, saying what she had just said, and willed the memory to leave you. It disappeared, and you felt calm.

The music started up and the curtain lifted to reveal you and your classmates to the audience. You left it all on the line, probably completing your best performance at Wisco to date. At the end of the number, the crowd leapt to its feet, and you grabbed Lily and one of your other classmate’s hands as you prepared to take a bow together.

You didn’t intend on looking in the audience, but while you took your bow, you thought you saw Alex out of the corner of your eye. There was no way he was here. When you straightened up, you looked into the crowd again and somehow, your vision didn’t fail you. Alex was about six rows from the front, clapping and cheering loudly. You grinned, and the two of you locked eyes for a second before the curtain lowered and Lily tugged your hand.

“We have to let the next class take their places!” she whispered urgently.

“Alex is here,” you replied. “He made it after all!”

Lily smiled. “That’s great! But uh,” she looked behind the two of you, “There are some angry seniors giving us the evil eye.”

You snapped out of your happy trance and ran off the stage with Lily.

***************

After showering and changing into your street clothes, you and Lily waited together in the lounge for Alex. Most of your classmates’ parents were here, but yours and Lily’s parents were unable to make the trip from California to attend.

“I can’t believe Alex made it here for you. It’s so romantic!” Lily sighed. “I wish I had someone like…” She stopped talking when Alex walked in the room with a huge bouquet of red roses, and behind him were two of his teammates, Cole and Owen. 

You knew Lily had a crush on Owen, and while you hadn’t been sure how Owen felt about her, you now believed there was a good chance he felt the same way. You winked at her before rushing over to your boyfriend, crushing him in a hug just after he managed to hand the flowers to Cole.

Alex kissed the top of your head before pulling away. “Babe, you were amazing out there. You were dancing circles around everyone else, pun not intended.” He cringed and you laughed. “These are for you,” Alex continued, taking the bouquet back from Cole.

“They’re beautiful, but how did you manage to see the show, let alone get the flowers?”

“We won in regulation, and the three of us took the fastest showers in history before sprinting over here,” he said. “As for the flowers, I had them delivered right after the show.”

“Aw, you’re so sweet!” You kissed your boyfriend chastely on the lips before turning to address Cole and Owen. “Thank you for coming,” you said. Cole grinned at you, but Owen’s eyes were fixed on Lily, who was standing behind you. “But I didn’t see you in the crowd with Alex.”

“That’s because he bought a ticket ahead of time, but O and I didn't, so we were forced to sit in the back,” Cole answered before elbowing Owen lightly in the ribs.

“Yeah, congrats, Y/N. You were amazing out there, Lily,” Owen said.

“T-thanks,” Lily replied with an uncharacteristic stutter.

Owen stepped closer to Lily, and the two walked over to the couch where there were two vacant seats.

“It’s about time, right?” Alex said to you.

“Yeah, I’m just glad Owen seems to feel the same about her,” you replied.

“He definitely does. He was talking my ear off all day about coming with me to the performance just so he could see her.”

“Really?” you started grinning, and your smile was permanently etched onto your face when you turned to see Owen and Lily kissing.

“And then there were three,” Cole said. “I’m going to head back to my dorm, but congrats on the performance, Y/N: you killed it out there.”

“Thanks, Cole,” you said, hugging him before he walked out the door.

“So, what do you want to do now?” Alex asked. “I could take you out to dinner, or…”

“I’m really tired, actually. Would you mind watching Netflix in my room?” you asked. You thanked your lucky stars that you managed to get a single this year.

“Not at all. Was Lily supposed to leave with us?” Alex asked, eyeing the new couple in the corner.

“No, but let me see if I can get her attention.” You waved at Lily, and after a few tries, she finally saw. You pointed at yourself and Alex and then at the door before mouthing, “Okay?” Lily vigorously nodded her head in response, so Alex took your hand as you exited the lounge.

***************

You and Alex were cuddled up on your bed in your dorm room while watching some romantic comedy on Netflix, but neither of you was paying attention to the movie. Your mind was on the adrenaline rush you experienced during the performance earlier tonight, but he seemed just as distracted, which was unlike him.

You looked up at your boyfriend and ran your fingers through his dark curls as you asked, “What’s on your mind, babe?”

“Nothing,” Alex lied. You raised an eyebrow. “Okay, it’s not nothing, but it’s really silly.”

“Trust me, Al, nothing you do could be silly,” you responded.

He took a deep breath. “Okay. Can you teach me how to dance?”

That was not what you were expecting him to say, but you smiled. “Of course, babe! This movie is boring, anyway.”

“I couldn’t agree more,” Alex chuckled, and you laughed while pulling him off the bed.

“Okay, so I’m going to teach you the basic steps of the waltz. Don’t worry, it’s not complicated; it’s actually really simple,” you added in response to the look of fear on your boyfriend’s face.

“What you think is a simple dance technique is far from my definition,” Alex said warily.

You asked theatrically, “Is the great Alex Turcotte, the fifth overall pick at the NHL Draft, afraid of learning how to waltz?”

“Pssh, no,” Alex said, and you laughed.

“All right, could you please stand over there?” you asked, pointing to the side of the room. He obeyed as you walked to the back of the room. Thank goodness your room was large.

“Okay, so the first thing you’re going to do is step forward with your left foot and bend your knee so that you put pressure on the floor,” you said, demonstrating. “Then, you’ll put your right foot forward, parallel to the left foot but with minimal pressure and some space between it and the left,” you said. “It would be ideal if you were on your tippy toes, but light pressure will do. Then move your left foot to the side next to your right foot, also with minimal pressure.”

Alex watched attentively as you demonstrated the steps, this time starting from the top.

“Okay, now it’s your turn,” you said, reaching for your boyfriend’s hand. He took it and stood next to you. When you tried to let go of his hand to stand off to the side, he held on tighter. “Babe, I have to stand over here to make sure I can see your foot position,” you said.

“Oh, all right,” he whined but let go of your hand. He stepped forward with his left foot, and then with his right, and he was surprisingly good at it until the third step, when he stepped on his right foot with his left.

“That was really good!” you praised him, “You just need to have your left foot next to your right one on the last step, not on top of it. And let your left knee bend naturally on the first step instead of locking.”

“Got it.” Alex walked to the back of the room and executed the steps correctly.

“Much better!” you cheered before kissing him on the lips. Alex tried to deepen the kiss, but you pulled away. “Not yet, babe. There’s still one more part you have to learn.”

Alex let out an exaggerated sigh, but he moved to the side of the room while you walked towards the door.

“Now you have to do the steps backwards and in reverse. So you step backwards with your right foot this time, but you still put pressure on the floor,” you said while demonstrating. “Then step back on your left foot, and keep it parallel to your right foot and with minimal pressure. Finally, you move your right foot to the side to step next to your left foot with light pressure.” After completing the demonstration, you asked Alex, “Do you think you can you do it?”

“Yeah,” Alex said, and he flawlessly mimicked your demonstration.

Your heart swelled with pride. “That was perfect! Do you think you can put all six steps together?”

Alex didn’t say anything in response, instead opting to show you through completing all six steps just as flawlessly as the last three.

“Wow,” you said, “You’re actually really good at this, Turcotte.”

“Well, I do have good balance. I need to, or else I’d end up flat on my ass on the ice,” he said, and you giggled.

Alex went over to the dresser where his phone was charging and he pressed a few buttons before “Lover” by Taylor Swift began playing in the room. He closed the distance between you in three strides, held out his hand to you, and asked, “May I have this dance?”

“Of course,” you said, and you placed your hand in his.

Although this was the first time you two danced together, it was like you had been dance partners for decades. He expertly led you through the waltz, and when the song concluded, you opted to sway back and forth while leaning your head on his shoulder.

You felt like you could stay in this little bubble of bliss forever, but Alex kissed your forehead and broke your trance. “I love you, Y/N Y/LN,” he said, and you gasped. This was the first time he ever said those three little words.

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have—”

“I love you too, Alex Turcotte,” you interrupted him, and he favored you with one of his beautiful smiles, dimples and all, before kissing you again.

[sometimesrosy]

Why do you keep shit talking about Bellarke antis? No one has to like the ship. Showrunner himself says it's a non romantic relationship and it's open for interpretation until they canonically stick to it. So why does it bother you when people call Bellarke platonic and it's not canon? When..It's not canon. There's nothing wrong with saying Bellarke is platonic. The showrunner himself and Eliza said it countless times but I see you ignoring it? Why? Jason said non romantic. Eliza said platonic.

Why do I keep shit talking them?

Because they’re assholes. You know they’re assholes. People attacking others and sending nasty anons and commenting so rudely on someone’s tweets? Those are assholes. 

If people are upset by me calling people who take part in asshole behavior actual assholes, that’s their problem, and they should stop being assholes. Then I’ll stop calling them assholes.

If someone doesn’t believe in Bellarke anymore? I dont’ think that makes them assholes. If they start to preach the gospel of Bellarke being dead, that’s kind of an asshole move. You know the term “ship and let ship?” Blorke antis are looking to blow up the ship and drown anyone who still loves the ship. 

It doesn’t BOTHER me when ex-bellarke fans say Bellarke is not happening, it disappoints me. I am SORRY that the people I used to enjoy this show with can’t see what I see, can’t see the bellarke of it all. I don’t really understand how they are MISSING the romance story on screen which clearly indicates that Bellarke is not dead but is actively happening.

And I don’t particularly like when I get anons who think all antis ever have a right to their bad opinions, but I don’t have a right to mine. I don’t comment on anyone’s tweets. I don’t hijack anyone’s posts. I don’t argue with anyone in their comments. I don’t send asks about anyone else’s shipping, anti or otherwise. And i certainly don’t send anons calling someone names like has happened to me. 

Not shipping something is fine. Not believing the canon is fine too, I guess. I think it’s stupid. But if people want believe gossip without evidence except for the reputation of a person who has had a lot of really serious misinterpretations of canon, and has been TOLD so by people she then calls bad writers, when she was the one who failed to understand? I think that makes them suckers.

You call what I say, my CRITIQUE of fandom to be shit talking. ButI analyze fandom culture the same way I analyze canon.  What people say, the patterns of behavior, the posts and comments, these are all the text that I am making sense of. The facts. 

I find it really interesting that fandom thinks they are free to make judgments on everyone else, especially the canon, the characters, but also JR, the actors, and any fandom member who doesn’t believe what they believe, but once the criticism is turned on their OWN behavior and posts and comments, all of a sudden it’s unfair. 

If y’all can’t take the shittalking then y’all should STOP shittalking. 

If it’s ok for you to critique people you don’t know. Then it’s okay for them to critique you.

If you want me to side with fandom over JR, I can’t do it, because I see fandom being bullies. And it’s not like you are not aware that internet bullying is a problem... y’all just think somehow that if YOU do it, they deserve it. That you are righteous and you’re not *harassing* them, no, it’s a valid criticism because they didn’t give you the fucking ship you wanted in the exact way you wanted it and now you’ve been hurt.

Fandom is a mess.

And fandom will continue to be a mess until they decide to spend more time questioning their OWN behavior than they do questioning the showrunner’s or other fans.

And before you say I need to question my behavior, I have questioned my behavior since I came to fandom, and I have changed my behavior accordingly, from when I was perfectly open and accepting and willing to debate and engage with everybody, to now, where I’ve cut myself off from all types of communications, all sorts of people, and many types of media. 

What you see now is a pissed off fan, whose been on the ugly side of this internet harassment and is telling you now. It doesn’t matter HOW wrong you think someone’s position, presence, or words are, if you harass them, tell them they’re wrong, invade their social media, send people after them, attack them, send nasty anons, spread lies and misinformation about them, and try to make other people hate them too, then you’re a bully. Fix you.

Y’all need to watch YOUR OWN behavior and stop blaming other people for the shit you do.  Because it’s not good. You are deluding yourself if you think it is. You’re sending me an anon into my inbox AND challenging my ship. Because you are UNABLE to be respectful. I don’t know who you are. But I can see you’re one of the people I talk about in general. 

PS: as usual, I don’t take word of god or actor commentary as part of canon. i analyze CANON. you know. the show. That some of us are watching and the rest of us are whining about because it doesn’t fit our fanon, so therefore is wrongWrongWRONG. 

[thran-duils]

Beauty, Reputation, and Wealth (P4)

Title: This Is Not Proper Pairing: Reader/AU!Castiel, Reader/OOC Summary: AU Castiel is part of the mob but also endowed with magic (based off of Grisha by Leigh Bardugo. So y’all, he still has his “grace”!). The reader is employed in a brothel and of course, his favorite. But, she starts to develop feelings for another… Words: 4,846 Warnings: Language, Smut Author’s Note: If you want to be tagged, let me know! I’m using my regular Castiel tags but I can add to it! :)

Part 3 || Part 5 || Masterpost  || Fanfic masterpost

The morning after his meeting with Castiel, Vladimir sat at his kitchen table, eating his breakfast in silence. He had gone home, his mind completely lost in thought about what to do with Oliver. He’d had a feeling about where Oliver had been going at night and he didn’t blame his son for it. Vladimir had done the same thing – and continued now as a grown man – when he had been Oliver’s age.

He’d gotten little sleep the night before, concocting a plan. He barely paid attention to his wife when she entered the room, giving the same treatment to his daughter.

When Oliver entered though, he initiated conversation. Telling Oliver he would be sent abroad to do work for their family’s betterment. And when Oliver tried to argue, Vladimir told him that if he cared about the family, he would do as his father requested to protect his mother and sister.

Being the person that he was, Oliver had qualms about it but kept his mouth shut after that knowing that any immediate retaliation would send himself into an area of disrespect against his father and family.

When Oliver requested to have the day for himself, Vladimir was hesitant but relented, telling him tomorrow they would be sending him away, so he needed to be back before it was dark so he was able to rest and pack his things. Oliver held back a protest, accepting this. He forced a small nod when his mother told him she agreed with his father that it was time that he start traveling.

Leaving was the last thing he wanted to do.

<> <> <>

The way Oliver closed his hands around yours and you immediately knew you were going to get some bad news.

He had sat you down in one of the rooms that was empty in the brothel, not taking you upstairs. He had looked dejected the moment he had walked in and despite the fact he had forced a smile, you were not fooled.

“What’s going on?” you asked him, trying to sound light.

He cleared his throat and started, “I don’t mean to… be upset. But, this…” He fell off again. He was struggling with finding the right words it seemed. He met your eyes for a second before diverting them again. “I’m going away.”

Your heart hammered in your chest.

“Where? Why?” you blurted.

Oliver sighed, “My father wants me to go do business for him Ravka for awhile.”

“It’s dangerous over there!” you protested.

Giving you a little laugh, Oliver nodded in acknowledgment. “I do not know what he is thinking. And why this has come out of nowhere. All he said was that he wanted me to do it for the betterment of our family and that it’s time I go with him to see how he works outside Kerch.”

You tried to gather your thoughts as a silence fell between the two of you. Oliver’s touch on your hands, a soft, gentle caress was what you tried to focus on.

You finally spoke again, your voice meek, “How long will you be gone?”

“A month at least,” Oliver responded quietly. That was forever. And it wasn’t even certain he would be back after that time. He was hinting that it was open ended, that he might be gone even longer.

You must have looked upset because Oliver said, “Y/N, I am sorry.”

“Me too.”

He shifted closer to you and said, “I can’t stay much longer.”

Looking at him alarmed, you asked, “Are you leaving tonight?”

It looked to pain him to inform you, “Tomorrow morning.”

Another punch to your gut. You blinked back tears that had formed in your eyes at the crushing feeling at hearing this.

Oliver’s lips were soft against yours. His kiss was slow and savoring, his hand holding your face. He rested his head against yours, breathing deeply, his eyes closed. He held you tightly, relishing in being close to you.

“I am sorry there wasn’t more time for us to adjust to it. I am just happy I was able to come tell you so you didn’t think I just… left. For no reason,” Oliver told you. He gave you another long, deep kiss. A single tear fell down your face and he pulled away slightly, brushing it away with his thumb. “I’m gonna come back. I promise. You just gotta make sure you’re still here when I get back.”

“I will be,” you breathed out.

Standing up, Oliver pulled you with him. He stared into your eyes. There were a lot of things you wanted to tell him and you guessed he was struggling with the same urge. Instead, he leaned down, giving you a kiss on your forehead and then a quick one on your lips.

“I’ll be back before you know it,” he vowed. And his hand left yours and he turned, leaving you in the room. You followed him at a distance down the hall, keeping your eyes on his retreating back. He looked over his shoulder at you before he left the building, hesitating for a second before pushing himself forward, putting his hat on and exiting.

<> <> <>

“Do you want me to let him in?” Sam asked forwardly, looking at you as the sky darkened. It had been a few days since Castiel had come to visit and Sam was anxious every night, asking you the same thing. And you always responded the same.

You gave him a half smile and pointed out, “Do you honestly think you could stop him?”

“I could try.”

You touched his arm and said, “Thank you. I can handle it.”

For the first time in the last few days, Sam actually extended the conversation past that.

“I don’t think you should have to put up with it.” Sam’s eyes were not on you.

Your heart melted a little. Knowing that he cared this much. You shrugged, trying to brush off the hurt you felt a few days prior, “It could be a lot worse.”

“It could. But just because it could doesn’t mean you should have to put up with bullshit happening here and now.”

Sam finally looked at you and you cleared your throat. Again, you shrugged, “He was just upset.”

Scoffing, Sam responded, “He doesn’t like the fact his ‘little fuck doll’ has deep relations to someone else.” Your eyes widened slightly at Sam’s words and he remarked, “I roam the halls to protect you all. I hear things I probably shouldn’t hear in the process.”

“Yes. You do,” you responded curtly. Sam’s expression fell immediately and on the whim you felt bad. He was only doing what he felt best and he was there to protect you and the other girls. Clearing you throat yet again, you brushed a piece of your hair behind your ear and said, “Thank you for looking out for me though.” His eyes met yours again and you gave him a small smile. “It means a lot.”

“Just wanted you to know I don’t think you should put up with name calling. It’s childish and hurtful. I would not have treated the girl I loved this way if the universe had given me a chance to prove it. But… she was taken from me. And I never got the chance. She was the world to me. And I wouldn’t have called her a slut, regardless of the situation.”

This personal information hit you like a brick. You wondered if this was another reason Sam had left his home. You swallowed sharply, avoiding his eye contact.

Sam said after a few moments of you not responding, “That’s not how you treat someone you respect and love.”

“It’s different. He was upset and he’s never said anything like that to me before.”

“It only takes one time.”

With a sincere tone, you promised him, “I’m not going to let it happen again.”

Out of the corner of your eye, you saw Sam examining you. He finally said in a quiet tone, “I hope so, Y/N.” He cleared his throat and nodded, “Calista is putting out the dinner. You should go have a bite to eat.”

You nodded back at him before turning to go back inside, thinking about what he had said. Truthfully, you had not forgiven Castiel yet for it, no matter how you tried to prove to Sam it didn’t bother you. Deep down, you were angry about it. What Sam said to you encouraged you to keep that anger and stand up for yourself when Castiel showed up. Because no matter how much you missed his company, you needed to let him know he wasn’t going to treat you like that.

<> <> <>

Later that night, Castiel had shown up. You were elated for a moment, missing both him and Oliver tremendously. But, Sam’s conversation with you came back the second you laid eyes on him. You were going to keep your promise to Sam. You kept your distance at first, trying to let it be known through your body language you were skeptical about being around him.

He was standing in your room, facing you as you undressed to change into something more comfortable. You had told him you were going to bed and were not up for anything but he insisted on staying.

Castiel seemed to notice. Or he had not forgotten what he had done because he observed, “You let me in.”

You shot him a look over your shoulder before saying simply, “I did.”

Castiel watched you as you let your dress drop and made your way towards your corset. “I did not mean to insult you a few nights ago.”

You swallowed, letting your corset fall from your body onto the ground. You were merely in your garter and stockings at this point. You inhaled deeply before answering, “But you meant to hurt me.”

“No,” Castiel cut in quickly.

Turning towards him, you didn’t bother covering yourself. He had laid with you enough to know every intimate detail. “You did. I am not letting you entertain the argument otherwise. I don’t agree with it and I’m not going to let you try to explain it away. It was a mistake on your part and I hate it.”

Castiel turned his eyes downward, unable to look at you.

You took this as an opportunity to more forward, “If you ever speak to me that way again, I am going to have to think long and hard about accepting you anymore.” Castiel’s jaw clenched at this but he said nothing. You brushed a stray piece of hair behind your ear before adding, “I don’t have anyone as a permanent partner, Castiel, as you know. You wouldn’t get it. You don’t have to put up with that and when that’s happening, abuse – whether physical or emotional – makes it harder. My relationships with others are different than you with your wife. I have you and… another who gives themselves to me on a nightly basis before skipping off to leave me.”

To your surprise and slight annoyance, Castiel looked slightly offended. He stepped up, “I never visit anyone else. I don’t dote on anyone else. And I don’t lay with anyone else.”

The words left your mouth coolly, “Except your wife.”

His eyes went to the ground immediately again, staying there for a few moments. Castiel scoffed before his eyes met yours again. “You know that is necessary.”

You sighed, “I suppose it is.”

Castiel was not amused. “What does that mean?”

“I am here in this brothel. It’s something I should expect. It is my fault for having feelings and getting attached.” The words almost caught in your throat but you were not going to let them. You forced on, holding back your tears and avoiding his eye contact. “If I mean nothing, just tell me so I can stop wasting my time on feeling and focus on you like any other person that comes in.”

“I love you.”

The way the words came off his tongue with such conviction caught you off guard. You regained ground quickly, staring back up at him.

He closed the distance between the two of you. “You are the reason I want to come out every day! You make me want to get out of bed, do my daily living and come back to reap the far and few between benefits. My work is exhausting. And my wife is a necessity to navigating the disgusting politics of this city. She bore my child –” you winced at this mention of intimacy and if he noticed, he didn’t show. “and does her part. She is satisfied and content but I know what lurks beneath her calm demeanor. She is plain and desires to be back home with her family in a village outside the city. She cares not for the flairs of the city no matter how much wealth her family has.” He paused a moment before reaching up and touching your face. You stared into his eyes as he looked at you with favor. It made your heart flutter. “But you… You’ve lived here. You know the politics even if you don’t agree with them. You play your way around them and get yourself the benefits. You’re strong. You survive.”

You stood there, more than likely mirroring a gaping fish for a few seconds at his confession. Suddenly, he was on you. His mouth was rough against yours, his hands moving up your body and yanking you close to him. You did not fight him. This was the most honest and upfront Castiel had been in awhile. Maybe ever.

“You know you do not leave my mind,” he breathed.

What he said was deep enough to cut into the ice you had tried to build around yourself against him.

Against your lips, he asked, “Are you still not up for anything?”

Your answer was your hands going towards the buttons on his trousers.

<> <> <>

A few days after your last encounter with him, he showed up at the brothel waiting for you. William informed you and you came downstairs, approaching Castiel. His eyes lingered on your body and you realized he must see that this was a dress that Oliver had bought for you. You rose your eyebrows at him and he merely gave you a tight smile.

“Why are you here so early?” you asked curiously.

“Because it’s a surprise,” Castiel told you. “And I’m going to keep it a surprise if you’ll let me and trust me.”

You threw a look back at William before shrugging, “Alright.”

Castiel held out his arm to you and you took it. He meant to take you out you realized. It was a lucky thing then that you had chosen to don one of Oliver’s dresses considering it was appropriate to go out in.

A carriage was waiting outside for the two of you and Castiel helped you up into it.

“Where are we going?” you inquired.

“Surprise,” Castiel intoned, reminding you. You closed your mouth and watched him pull something out of his pocket. It was a blind fold. You opened your mouth to protest but Castiel held a finger up to your lips. “Trust me.”

The blind fold went over your eyes and you felt Castiel’s fingers tying it, his fingers idling too long on your hair and skin. His touch sent electricity through you. Since his all too thorough confession of his desire and love to you the previous night, you had been on a high. And thinking of him and being in his presence didn’t help or ease your elation.

After what seemed like a relatively short ride, the blind fold came off and you blinked in the light.

It was Anna’s shop.

What was he doing?

Castiel got out of the carriage before holding his hand out for you. He led you up the stairs, not making anything other than small, trivial talk. You were itching to ask him questions, although you had your suspicions as to why he was bringing you here.

They were answered the moment you entered the shop and Anna brought forth the package she claimed was Castiel’s order. Castiel was not going to be outdone by Oliver and you had to hold back a little laugh thinking of this.

It was not a cotton gown. It was a satin gown. The bottom was a deep red and the top was a black, quarter length sleeved bodice.

He had not bought you something this extravagant in while. Your hand ran over the fabric, taking in the detail of the bodice.

Finally looking up at him, you gave him a little smile. “What is this for?” you asked him, trying to sound nonchalant.

“The showing for Edinesse tomorrow,” Castiel responded and your eyes widened a bit. You saw Anna had a surprised look on her face for a second as well out the corner of your eye. What she must think of you. Coming in a couple weeks ago with one man but coming back with another. She already had to know what occupation you had with you picking up the order for Calista that you had. But her seeing you reaping benefits from two different men must give her a bad taste in her mouth, no matter if the purchases helped keep her in business.

Edinesse though? That was a popular play. He wasn’t meaning to take you… was he?

“We cannot –” you began to protest.

“You went out with him did you not?” This shut you up. Castiel told you. “I want to. And I know you do too.”

“This is not proper.”

“When have I ever cared about proper?” Castiel pointed out. Castiel reached out and put the dress back in the box determinedly, placing the lid back on top. He faced you. “I want to go and I am asking you to.”

He watched you closely. You swallowed and then said, “Of course I want to go. But –”

“Then it’s settled,” he interrupted you. He gave Anna a smile, “And thank you for getting it done in time.”

“Anything for a well paying customer.”

“Not the first time I’ve heard that,” Castiel remarked and she gave him a tight smile before turning around to get him his receipt. Your ears reddened a bit thinking the insinuation she must have gotten from that, regardless if Castiel meant it or not. He did not seem bothered when he faced you again and stated, “I will escort you back but I need to leave.”

You frowned, “Why?”

Castiel gave you a light kiss and responded simply, “Business, angel. As usual.”

<> <> <>

The men were polite. The women were as well but you could tell they did not approve. They were looking down their nose at you when you and Castiel passed by. Castiel was a popular socialite, so of course when they inquired about who you were, it was a slight jab. They knew damn well about Castiel’s wife. He gave them the same answer that you were a friend who wanted to see this play, so he had offered to bring you. He told them that his wife was not interested in the plays. She never had been. Everyone accepted this answer, at least outwardly. You knew no one believed him but they were all too polite – or afraid of him – to say so.

He had his own balcony to himself. This did not come as a surprise to you. There was a boy dressed in a uniform, obviously meant to wait on the two of you during the performance. He looked surprised when Castiel requested something special of him.

“You won’t come in here no matter what you hear. Correct?” The boy shifted his gaze between you and Castiel quickly before giving a curt nod. Castiel patted his face and then proceeded to hand him a nice tip. “Good. Glad to hear it.” He turned to you, “Come on, love.”

You wondered why he had asked that but deep down you knew why.

As you tried to enjoy the play, during the second half, you felt his hand creeping.

“The play…” you tried to reason with him. Although it was not as exciting as you hoped, you still wanted to know how it ended.

The theater was dark but not so dark that people wouldn’t notice the two of you missing from your booth if you were to lay on the ground.

“Does this not excite you?” Castiel’s tone was low, sensual.

“It is the middle of the theater. We have to be quiet,” you tried to reason again.

“Exactly. So... we’ll be quiet.”

Your eyes met his. You wanted him to desire you more than he already did so desperately. He had to keep coming back for a reason. He loved you and you believed that. And the fact he was willing to risk fucking you in public, especially here… that turned you on.

“Alright then,” you agreed.

He laid you on the ground, pushing your dress up, allowing him access. The fabric gathered around your hips. You wished you could see him better as he removed your underwear. You loved looking into his eyes when the two of you were intimate.

Castiel’s hands ran down your bare thighs, feeling the freedom of your legs out of your underwear. His hands briefly traveled over your sex, dipping in. Your breath hitched as he slowly let you adjust to his finger, his thumb circling your nub. He shortly added another finger, getting you worked up. Another digit entered and you held back a moan, instead letting out a little choke. You heard him hum quietly, pleased, before removing his hand from your sex, moving up to caress your bare skin on your thighs.

You heard him maneuvering and after a few moments he was over you. He had freed himself from his trousers and was laying kisses on your cleavage above your bodice.

Castiel placed his hand over your mouth before he buried himself in you deep without a seconds warning. His other hand gripped your hip as he moved out before pushing himself back in. Your legs were tight around his waist. His hand tightened on your mouth, stifling your sounds of pleasure as he rode you. His hips bucked, lifting you off the ground slightly with each thrust.

The chorus of the theater ensemble covered the sound of skin slapping skin and Castiel’s grunting at holding in your cries and his effort as he thrusted into you. His lips trailed and sucked your neck as he fucked you.

You buried yourself in his warmth. He held you against him, wanting to be close.

He was trying to love you in the place his wife should be. For a moment, you felt guilty. You had never met his wife and it was likely you never would. But the feeling of him holding you close made your guilt melt away quickly. It was hard to feel negativity towards him. He was loving you the way he knew how but trying it in a different circumstance. In public. And that had to count for something.

<> <> <>

After the performance, when the two of you were trying to leave, Castiel was stopped by a woman. Castiel had been trying to get out of the theater with as little conversation as possible. He held tight to your arm as he pulled you along and the second this woman stepped in his path, his grip tightened ever so slightly on your arm.

She had a look on her eye that set you on edge. Her eyes dragged over you before she slid them to Castiel, giving him a venomous smile.

“Castiel, I thought I was going to miss you. I heard you were here but I was already seated by the time you arrived.”

“Vera,” Castiel responded, his smile tight. It didn’t reach his eyes and you knew it was not genuine.

Vera looked over at you and asked Castiel, “Are you going to introduce me?”

Clearing his throat, Castiel gestured at you, “Y/N, Vera. Vera, Y/N.”

She seemed amused by his curt response before asking you, “And how is it you know Castiel?”

You shot him a look and before you could respond, Castiel informed her, “Volunteers down at the shelter. I was there with Abram as usual. Struck up a conversation.”

“Invited me to the theater. I had not been for ages and I thought it would be good for me to get out and do something nice. I am usually so busy,” you added. If Castiel was surprised you had caught on and lied with such ease, he didn’t let it show.

Vera chewed on that for a moment before smiling again, “Well, it’s nice to know Castiel is so generous that he brought you here. He’s definitely keeping up his vow to help out people less fortunate than him.” This was a subtle jab at you, her insinuating you were poor. Which you were but it was rude. You didn’t let your expression falter at it though. Vera had paused to gauge your reaction you supposed. She added, throwing a glance at Castiel, “Although, I do wish that would extend to Ravka.”

Something flashed in Castiel’s eyes at this mention. You knew that Grisha had been primarily from Ravka and you knew Castiel detested going back there. He had told you that much. “Ravka is behind me. I am focusing on here and now. Ravka is strictly business now for me. You know that.”

“That I do…” Vera said before trailing off. She chirped, “Anyway. I just wanted to get a chance to speak to you before you left. I am traveling to Ravka myself and I will be gone for a few weeks. I hope you’ll keep things in check.”

“I always do,” Castiel answered, stiffly.

Vera tapped his arm, “Of course you do, love.” To you, she said, “It was nice to meet you Y/N. I hope you continue your work at the shelter. It is a much needed place here.” Again, to Castiel, she directed, “Tell Lisandra hello for me. I am sad to see she wasn’t able to make it tonight. You two have a good night.”

With that, she gave you one more sickly sweet smile before turning on her heel and walking off.

Castiel’s grip didn’t loosen on you as he turned and made a beeline for the door.

When the two of you were in the carriage, you asked, “Who was she?”

“An annoying knat.”

“That doesn’t answer my question.”

(gif)

Shooting you an annoyed look, Castiel sighed before rubbing his face. “She’s another Grisha. An Inferni. She is very… dedicated to the war going on back in Ravka and obviously holds disdain for me that I am not as involved. She thinks I would be valuable.”

“Corporalki are supposed to be the most valuable,” you pointed out.

Castiel shook his head. “I am not interested in that. I have my business here. And she was just trying to cause problems. Just put her out of your mind.”

You decided to follow his advice and you scooted closer to him, resting your head on his shoulder. The two of you rode in silence for a few moments before you told him, “Thank you for taking me.”

Castiel’s hand gripped yours, pulling it up to his lips. He kissed the back of your gloved hand and responded, “Of course, angel.”

The two of you fell into silence again, both of you still lost in your thoughts. You couldn’t get the image of Vera’s smile out of your mind. It was unsettling. And she seemed to be a problem for Castiel – or at least enough to rattle him a bit. You hoped to not see her again.

<> <> <>

Castiel walked up the stairs to his front door. He had left Y/N less than an hour ago. The house looked small from the outside but inside, his house extended through what looked like the other two townhouses.

Upon reaching the door, he unlocked the door and stepped inside, closing the door behind him. The house was quiet as it normally was at this hour. But that only lasted a second.

As Castiel turned around he saw the front parlor had light coming from inside from the cracked door and simultaneously heard loud, quick footsteps coming from inside the room. He immediately straightened up, ready to fight an intruder when the door was flung open and his wife, Lisandra appeared.

He would have relaxed if it hadn’t been for her red face and the menacing way she advanced on him quickly.

And for the fact when she did approach him, she swung her arm back and instead of reacting, he let it happen.

Lisandra slapped him across the face with as much force as she could muster and hissed, “How DARE you!”

~~~

Castiel Tags: @prince-halfblood, @splendidcas, @klaineaholic, @letsthedogpackandthecats, @alexastacio, @winchesterforever12 @seirensou  @tacos-and-trenchcoats