#live laugh love gillion

[gilliontidestriderchampionoftheu]

oh fuck lovebomb started playing and it set off my fight or flight instincts

[candlesnuff404]

STG IF THEY KILL QUEEN

[insomniacirl]

Chip has moved in the shadows his entire life almost, he only stood out when he wanted to- when he knew he needed to.

Because he's a thief first and foremost, a bastard, with silent footsteps and the ability to dodge impossibly- to avoid and sneak past at every turn.

But when Jay and Gillion entered the scene, that changed.

When he looks at them he must admit he shines a little brighter, grins a little wider, stands a little taller- but it's not just that... Jay and Gillion are the sun and the moon, and when they turn to look at him, no matter how he tries to hide, to blend in to his surroundings, they always find him. Left, right and centre.

And it makes him feel vulnerable. But it makes him feel seen.

It's a terrifying feeling, having those eyes pierce through him and skewer him right through the middle. The one defense measure he's used his whole life, the thing that's kept him alive all this time- stolen away from him in the blink of an eye, in the turn of a head and the shine of a smile.

Yes, it feels a little bit like dying- but doesn't it also feel a little like love?

For the first time since he was taken on board and given a family, a sister; all of who were torn away from him, he is being looked at like a living, breathing, feeling thing.

Like running out onto the sunlit deck with not a fear in the world, like watching moonlight glimmer on the ocean and hoping to one day swim down there and feel it, like defeating his sister in their play battle and reigning victorious, King of the overseas, King of it all.

That feeling is distant to him now, hidden from the sun for so many years, staying far away from the chill of moonlit waters. All this time, it's felt unfair to him to know that he is alive when they are not. So he avoids sensation, avoids the gold and silver the world offers him freely.

Until he finds the gold of a girl he can't help but run with, the silver of a boy who's hand is cool in his, as he helps him breach the surface of the swaying ocean.

Jay drags him out onto the sunny deck to spar, to dance, to laugh and navigate their course together.

Gillion grabs his hand and pulls him down into the cold midnight waters, pulling him through glimmering waves and showing him even more beautiful things he's never seen underneath it all.

Sometimes he wonders, when he sees Gillion pray or Jay drift, when their eyes begin to glow and magic seems to spill from their lips, seeping out of the corners of their mouth, if their goddesses ever missed him- if they ever noticed his absence, or more prominently, his return.

[ffredmujkic]

before canon completely demolishes my idea heres my completely indulgence idea of edyn and her relationship to gil, I made up in my head bc in total she maybe has fiften minutes of screentime

i want edyn worried, wondering what her little brother is doing and seeing him again smiling and laughing like he never had in the undersea. they changed so much gillion especially, there are years between and i want them to feel them even as they try to pretent its not there.

edyn the older sister who sees herself as her brothers keeper seeing thats hes grown so much, surrended by people that love him. her to stand on the albatross for the first time to truly see the home gillion has built away from her. There are two new people to share the space of his heart with. she has never met them until now. they are strangers to her, kind enough but shes needs to always be cautious now.

she wants home in her brother, she wants them to go back to the undersea. it wasnt good the first time but she can built them something proper. she wants to again hold that boy in armor too big for him in her arms. her brother was not happy, she doesnt want to go back but back then he was familar. he is gillion he is something entirely new. she is a guest in their home. the most welcomed, guest of honor but she doesn't belong here. she knows she doesnt. she wouldnt even want to even if they are so kind to her.

give me an edyn who puts distance between herself and her brother, hurting gillion in the process bc she thinks she isnt needed anymore. she can step back away him and his new life, here on the surface where the strangers have always leer at her, where in her aparment she feels watched. gillion will be fine and she feels so lose. he will never make a home in the undersea. he is an exile. he has given up his titles. he has gone where edyn cannot follow. their paths have diverged, there was too much time, they are incompatible now.

i want a gil who at his core has always been a child wanting his sister comfort. shes is right there in their kitchen, drinking coffe from a mug, the blue one with a half broken handle from being knocked over by ollie, and she has never been farther. he doesnt know where she does at night. he doesnt know what she is doing with the navy, especially not jays grandmom. he wont ask, he just needs her to be there. he doesnt want to disappoint her, or scare her off, so much has happen since they been in each others lives. he wont tell her abt the nightmares or the scars on his body, he doesnt need her to worry over him. all he needs is for her to stay this one time.

i want there to be sooooo much unsaid for the bullshit peace keeping. they want to stay in each others lives. they see the distance. they wont knowledge that they could and did grow so apart. bc its so painful to think they loved each other so much, brother and sister and they dont recognize each other now

[aferinbyname]

But of course, lady Ferin. Have you never questioned our knowledge? Surely you’ve not grown so complacent as to quietly accept the fact that anonymous entities are making disturbingly accurate comments on your lives, out at sea with so little real contact to the rest of the world. We see you. And we see Chip, and Gillion, and Alphonse, and Earl… Even Niklaus when he’s bored enough to allow it.

But we are not, as a general rule, malicious. Apathetic at worst. We laugh with you, we weep for you, we fear for you so intensely it’s unbearable at times, but we have no physical influence on your world. Fear not, Ferin - we could not harm you if we tried. But we can’t help you either, unless you answer our questions and let us speak. This seems the most innocuous way, no? We got Chip’s compass away from him. We told you of his struggles with undeath. We may be harsh, but we mean well. If you don’t believe me, look for your Chip’s “Love Anon” or the half dozen digital hugs he received in the last few days.

-Watcher Anon

so your not the navy trying to spy on me?

[dragoonhooman]

[Tales from the world of Mana—A collection of poems]

“To Gillion—a collection of messages from his mentors, family, and friends”

Oh Soldier boy, snuff out your tears,

Oh Champion child, hide all your fears.

Be strong, the world’s your enemy,

Here’s how to be safe, so listen closely.

Hold your blade like this, for this is how you’ll kill,

Hold your lightning out, no, keep your hands still.

You are our weapon, our saviour, our champion of the sea,

Youth is not an excuse, do not play, do not run, listen to me.

Oh little brother, let your tears come free,

Oh sea sibling, you don’t need to be a champion for me.

Come out and swim, the world’s your oyster,

We can be children out there, playing in the water.

Here’s a gift for you, a pet, isn’t she sweet?

She’ll be here when I’m not, help you to stand on your own two feet.

You don’t have to be a saviour just yet, all you need to do is to live on,

Live and love, dear brother of mine, love you a million.

Oh captain, co-captain, your crew is here for you,

Oh warrior friend, closest friend, we’re here to see you through.

You are brave, you are kind, your titles do not define who you are,

Stay bright, stay true, stay you, seastar.

It is safe on the ship, our home on the waves,

Let’s play games and tell tales to spend our days.

You can be you on this boat, amongst friends and love,

Go be free, be fun, be alive on the world above.

“Spread Your Wings, Bluejay”

Spread your wings, bluejay, don’t you know how to fly?

Go, stretch your wings, flex your feathers, go on, touch the sky!

Oh I see, you’re stuck, something’s keeping you to the ground,

What’s keeping you here, jaybird, what’s keeping you bound?

Spread your wings, bluejay, c’mon, give it a chance!

Or is someone keeping you caged, locked in an unwanted dance?

He’s keeping you tethered, stuck in a life that isn’t you,

Please, jaybird, run away, go find out what’s true.

Spread your wings, bluejay, I know you haven’t forgotten how!

You don’t need to be scared, you’ve found someone else now.

Look at you, you’re laughing and you’re smiling, bright as the sun,

Don’t you see, jaybird, this life’s the one!

Spread your wings, bluejay, yes, yes, you’re doing it right!

Feel the wind in your wings, hope in your feathers, go on, take flight!

You’re happy now, with a life and a family on the sea,

Look at yourself, jaybird, you’re finally free!

“Have you heard, have you heard?”

(Have you heard of the hole in the sea?)

There is a tale of a man with a child’s heart.

(Came from nowhere, not a ship succeeded to flee!)

His father’s coin tight in his hand, never apart.

(Have you heard of the fate of the Midnight Rose?)

In his nightmares he sees his face, sinking into waters deep.

(The ship lost in the storm, now only seen in poetry and prose.)

He wishes to live up to his greatness, no matter how hard the feat.

(Have you heard of the Riptide Pirates?)

There is a tale of a man with a child’s soul.

(I heard they saved people from cursed climates!)

His father’s coin, his legacy’s grip on his heart still in control.

Now here he stands, carving a legacy on his own.

And though he still has his wish, he learns to let go.

Sometimes the nightmares come, raging seas on the roam,

But here he stands, marveling at how far he’s grown.

[koi0boi]

5, 8, 10, 11, and 12 for the ask game

Thank you for the ask!

For number 5 i don't think i have one that differs that far from canon.

With 8 i think it would be Gillion

10 Idk if Le' Frog counts but i live laugh love him

for 11 i got to with blue raspberry my beloved

And for 12 Eater of ass

[commic-jester]

yours is ! “did you ever actually love me?”

“Jay-Jay, come home.”

Jay stood in her father’s office, posture painfully straight on pure instinct. Her brows were furrowed in simmering determination as she took a steadying breath.

“No.”

Jayson’s eyes held nothing short of that calm, cold fury she had grown used to as a child. His hair flashed for a moment so brief that Jay would’ve missed it had she blinked.

“You will come home, Jay. You will give up this ridiculous dream of becoming some… some pirate, and you will go back to your mother, who you abandoned. She is worried about—“

“She knows where I am. She knows who I’m with. You’re goddamn right she’s worried about me, but I did not abandon her. I left to find the fucking scum that killed my sister, your daughter!” Jay cried, emotions that she had kept shoved deep in the back of her heart suddenly bubbling to the surface. “She actually bothered to talk to me. Her first reaction wasn’t to force me to hurt my friends!”

Jayson’s eyes widened, the first clear sign of emotion Jay had witnessed from the man in years. Jay felt a small, traitorous pang of triumph in her gut at that. She pushed onward.

“You destroyed my favorite doll when I was seven. You forced me to go to the Navy’s private academy. You had a Navy uniform custom-tailored for an eleven year old girl! And when I didn’t turn out to be the perfect soldier you wanted, or live up to the Ferin name, or whatever the fuck you wanted from me, you dropped me off at Featherbrook with my mother, only visiting, what, once a month? Then six years later, you put me and my friends through hell and then force me to shoot one of them. And we’re not even going to mention Drey,” Jay ranted, her chest heaving and tears threatening to spill over by the end of it. “So please, enlighten me. Why the hell should I even consider coming with you?”

If Jay didn’t know better she would’ve said her father’s expression softened. That tiny lead ball of guilt welled in her stomach, but she forced it down quickly.

“Jay, I have only ever wanted what was best for you. For Ava. For your mother, for us all,” Jayson said, his voice deceivingly gentle.

Jay shook her head, tears finally falling. “Dad, did you ever really love me? Beyond living up to the ‘Great Ferin Legacy’?”

God, she wished Gillion and his Zone of Truth spell were here.

Jayson didn’t answer for a few, agonizing moments, and it was all the answer she needed. A choked sob escaped her as she all but ran out the door, her dad’s call of her name muffled under the blood pounding in her ears.

She stormed out of the front doors of the Navy headquarters, noting subconsciously Gillion and Chip talking animatedly as they waited out front for her. The conversation paused as they both turned to see her, their expressions lighting up in recognition and then immediately morphing into concern when they saw the tears. She pushed past them.

“Heyhey, woah, Jay!” Chip said, blocking her path and putting his hands on her shoulders, holding her at arm’s length. Gillion’s ever-obvious presence was behind her, an air of worry emanating from both of her fellow captains. “What happened? What’d he say?”

“Nothing. That’s the problem,” Jay snapped. Chip’s brow furrowed in confusion. Their small crew was silent for a moment as they walked before Gillion cleared his throat and spoke up.

“I… may not be completely familiar with the customs of the overseas quite yet, but I believe this calls for…?” he prompted, opening his arms in an invitation.

Jay gave a watery laugh before collapsing into the Triton’s arms, feeling the weight wrap around her instantly. A second weight pressed against her side as Chip awkwardly joined the hug, finding it a little difficult as the shortest member of their little trio. Gillion laughed softly before pulling Chip in as well, the two of them holding Jay as she finally allowed herself to cry into Gillion’s armor— the armor she made herself, actually. The thought was a little funny to her.

“In my humble opinion, Jay? Fuck him,” Gillion said with an air of finality. Chip nodded in agreement.

“We gotcha, Sureshot,” he murmured.

“We could kill him, maybe,” Gillion mused. “He seems pretty evil to me.”

“We absolutely could not, Gil. Remember what happened last time?” Chip said, looking up at the Triton in mild shock.

“We aren’t killing anybody, guys. It’s fine, really. Besides, who needs his bitchass when I’ve got you dipshits?” Jay said with a small smile, composing herself. Chip’s eyes lit up.

“Damn straight!” he exclaimed, punching Jay in the shoulder playfully.

Jay’s chest felt lighter than it had in years as Gillion punched Chip in mock-retaliation and the two began horseplaying with each other, eventually ending with Chip yelling indignantly in a headlock as the trio made their way back to the Albatross.

Jay took one final glance at the Navy headquarters, not sure if she imagined the flash of fiery red hair through the window. She took a breath and purposefully turned away, grinning as she climbed onto the deck with the others. Fuck him. She had her family right here.

[amoonglove]

My Dearest Flower...

[Backstory]

Anthea Moonglove was raised by her grandmother in a small servant’s apartment in the Arcanist’s Guild in Limsa Lominsa. Her grandmother, Vione Moonglove, was the beloved head chef of the guild for many many years. She loved cooking for the members of the guild and they treated her with reverence. Some even called her Mother Vione. Anthea’s mother was lost at sea when she was only a girl, but Vione never skipped a beat and raised the girl as her own. 

Growing up around the kitchen and busy ports of Limsa meant that Anthea learned quite quickly about the culinary arts, trading, and making deals. Because of her (often impromptu) conversations with passing arcanists of the guild however, she also found she had a talent for learning. Her grandmother, taking this as a sign, taught her the ways of botany. 

Old Vione entered her twilight years and found it more and more difficult to meet the demands of the growing guild; and so Anthea took to apprenticing in the kitchen and going out to gather ingredients as much as she could. 

Soon, Vione found it difficult to walk or work in the kitchen at all. This spurred Anthea to work harder in her lessons and, with the help of her friends in the guild, developed a tincture that would ease her grandmother’s pain and allow her to continue doing what she loved: feeding the people she cared for. Each morning, Anthea would take her tincture of moko grass and lavender and carefully apply it onto her grandmother’s hands and feet. “So, when are you gonna make your gillions?” Vione would always tease her. Anthea would just laugh it off, she knew her skills shouldn’t be used for making gil. 

One evening, her friends called on her to chart a rare flower in the Black Shroud. She could hardly contain her joy when she was invited. This would be her chance to learn about flora that other skilled botanists would never see. She knew, however, that her responsibilities to the guild were too great. Vione looked at her with kind, watery eyes. “Go with them,” she said kindly, “You have to do what you have to do!” Anthea prepared months worth of her tincture just in case and made her grandmother promise to use it every morning and every night until she got back. Vione agreed and waved her out of the city with tears in her eyes.

Upon her return to the guild, about a month later, Anthea found that her and her grandmother’s room was empty and the tinctures that she had carefully made were left untouched. “She went swiftly and quietly and with a smile,” Thubyrgeim, the Guildmaster, told her with a grim expression. Anthea cried for days, cursing her selfishness in leaving for the expedition instead of taking care of Vione. 

Anthea found herself absent-mindedly flipping through Vione’s old cookbook one day; a musty thing with almost no measurements whatsoever. Somehow, Vione was always able to conjure the tastiest meals with no effort. As she thumbed through the recipes, a small note and a few aster petals fell from the book onto the table. 

The note read: “My dearest Flower, use my recipes if you must, but be sure to make your own. Live a life that invites the breeze to caress your face; one where you don’t hide from the morning sun. We shall see each other again. - Your Grandmother.”

Anthea took heart and gathered all of the notes and cookbooks that she had and that Vione had left. She thanked her friends at the guild, as well as master Thubyrgeim, profusely before setting off into the wilds of La Noscea. “We’ve got work to do,” she said confidently as she began her adventures.

[wanderingbards]

Chip gives very good hugs. This is because he does not actually hug people often - he moreso slings an arm over your shoulder and pulls you in. But a real hug from him is tight, it is warm, and it is safe. "It's okay, The Haunted One will keep the ghosts away. You're okay."

Jay gives very proper, calculated hugs. They're nice, but what's the best is when she has a hand on your shoulder. Or is brushing against you, leaning on you as she reads a map, etc. Jay makes little touches into big deals.

Gillion was never trained in actually touching people. The closest he'll get to physically affectionate without interference is guiding you through proper training forms. Then, his touches are light and hesitant and full of worry that you'll pull away, berate him, correct him. Gillion will gladly accept any affection you wish to give him.

Dakota gives bear hugs. Tight, all-encompassing hugs that reassure you and crack your back at the same time. He tends to run at someone and leap, taking them down to the ground and laughing. Very good, brotherly affection.

Vyncent isn't much for physical affection, but he'll awkwardly pat you on the head or shove you to the side in battle. He's someone who speaks, who acts, who does all they can but freezes the moment you try to hug him. Dakota is working on that.

William doesn't hug, but he holds hands. His are cold as ice, and he will gladly press them to your neck, your sides, your wrists and leech your warmth until you are comfortable and he is warm. He leans up against Dakota in the living room, and truly shows his comfort by falling asleep against you.

Tide gives Dad Hugs. Just. Hugs that are so warm and safe and protective, but also so incredibly awkward and unsure. But he's very willing to give hugs if asked.

Thanatos does not do physical touch. Instead he is a shield between someone he cares for and the rest of the world. He steps in between danger and the few people he cares for, and looks down on them later to make sure they're unharmed, they're going to be okay, yeah okay fine we can take a rest I suppose.

Rumi is tailored affection. They are those awkward hugs from an impersonal celebrity that are only good because you are in absolute awe at the sight of said celebrity. Elena, on the other hand, is learning how to be more real. How to hug tighter, letting your full arms drape around shoulders and waists and pulling you in close to just have someone to hold.

Peter...never got hugs before. He's never been a person to get hugs, but he realizes that sometimes he'll need to be the one giving hugs. He's awkward and hesitant and doesn't know quite when to let go, but when he does eventually settle into a hug it is just warmth and love, something more divine than an angel could ever hope to be.

[blizzardfluffykpop]

Our Home

Summary: This part is dedicated to the plan, to get rid of “The Mac.” Some day we will live in a home full of love and we’ll be happy, we’ll get there.

Bambam X Reader

Multi-parted: Part I, Part II, Mini-Part III, and Mini-Part IV.

Warnings: This story is going to deal with the elements of prostitution, abuse, arson, and murder. (Also it’s a punk au)

(This was kind of inspired by Matt Healy talking about his song The Robbers, but um,... then it took a completely different story of it’s own so enjoy the ride).

Waking up next to Bambam is unbelievable I think to myself as I slip out of bed. Looking around at our room, it’s hard to believe we are living together, finally. We own a home together now, but wherever he is I’m home. I can’t believe we’ve made it this far, but I wouldn’t want it any other way. I get dressed for work, I fix up my outfit in front of the floor-length mirror in our room. Bambam comes up behind me, a big smile adorning his face. He wraps his arms around me telling me, “You look beautiful today.” I turn my head to stare up at him, “You say that every day.” He laughs, “I mean it every day too” I laugh and kiss his nose. A year and four months ago Bambam and I were living inside a nightmare, we found solace in each other.

In New York, it felt like I couldn’t escape the life I had been living. In the beginning, it was wonderful, the cash flow, the people I was with. Everything was the ideal version of what being a prostitute under an assortment of pimps. Like major sports, in this industry, you are traded to a different pimp to make more money. I’ve been traded so many times I lost count, at first, it was nice because everyone I was traded with was kind and caring. Until I met Millikan “The Mac” Gillions, he was the highest paying pimp and he had the most prostitutes under him. At first, it was incredible, everyone got along and we made bank each night. Or so I thought, I never had to lay with a pimp that was what my contract had always stated. If I wanted to make the amount he was offering me, I had to let him use me whenever he wanted. I agreed because I wanted the money, I regret this decision to this day. Every time I had to venture up those stairs, I knew I wouldn't be coming out the same way I went in. 

I was wrong to think nothing could ever break my stride. For a long time, I had a hard time admitting to myself that I was being sexually abused. By a man that is supposed to look out for prostitutes, was abusing and taking advantage of them. I made a promise to myself as I looked at the mirror after a session with “The Mac.” That I would get out of this situation and not let anything get in my way. That’s when Bambam came into my life and changed it forever. 

That was eight months ago, Bambam, my regular comes to the mansion every Wednesday and sometimes on Sundays. I’ve fallen for him and I know he feels the same way. I wave to him, “Hi, Bambam!” I exclaim excitedly as he struts toward me grabbing my hand and intertwining our fingers. As we walk up to my room, I catch the sight of “The Mac” and I give him a cute wave, playing my part. If only he knew what he had in store for him that night. 

---

The first time I meant Bambam was at a club in downtown Rochester. I told him two hundred for the whole night if he wanted to be with me. He agreed and gave me two hundred on the spot, I put it in my wallet and had him follow me to a private room. As he shut the door, I started to take off my jacket and he shook his head. “Can we just talk tonight?” I shrugged and agreed and sat on the bed next to him. But this wasn’t the last time he would ask to talk to me, rather it was the first of many. Each time he came in I found myself charging him less and less. He reminded me every time he came in that I was more than a sex object that I was a person who had feelings. After the third night he met up with me, I invited him to the mansion. 

Two months into our friendship we finally slept together. Not to be biassed or anything, but no one else can compare to Bambam. As we laid facing each other, I was so caught up in the moment that I ended up telling him about Gillions. Instead of interrupting me he just let me talk about “The Mac.” How he forces us to stay with him, how he sexually abuses us, and that there is no way out. He grabbed my hand and brought it up to his lips and stated, “You’re not going to stay here, we’ll figure out how to get you out of here, you don’t deserve this. You deserve luxury, and nothing but,... you got that?” he placed a kiss on my hand as I nodded.

That's when our plan started, the plan to take out "The Mac." Almost every Sunday, "The Mac" had us go out on the town to meet up with some regulars or gain more business. For Bambam and I, it became our planning period. The next Sunday, I called Bambam telling him what corner I was waiting for him was. He smiled at me as he parked his motorbike before strutting over to me and taking my arm in his. He led me to his Harley, he swung his leg over and gestures for me to do the same. I swing my leg over and wrap my arms around his waist, he looks back at me with a wink he takes off. 

He took me through Rochester taking me through his memory lane, telling me little tidbits about each place. His childhood was filled with such light, it makes me wonder what led him to here. It shouldn’t have been possible for him to have met me. I belong to the darkness and he lived in the light, yet in him, I feel such solace. The last place he shows me is an abandoned building, the lights were still on and the water still worked. Why did he save this place for last, what is so special about it?  He turns and looks at me with a glint of mischief in his eyes, "Wanna go in?" I nod as he brings me to the back of the building. He climbs through a broken window and holds out his hands waiting for me to grab them. My heart beating with adrenaline as he pulls me into the building. 

I look around and realize it's an old workhouse, Bambam pulls me into his side. He explains to me, “When I was little my mother would take me and my siblings here to see her work. We were so proud of her, she’s always been our hero. Suddenly, the building up and foreclosed, all of the workers lost their jobs without notice. We were destitute, to the point where I haven’t seen my siblings again. We were all finding jobs to keep our family afloat. I was fifteen when I joined a gang, at first it was easy money. Like stealing money from old shopkeepers, it didn’t stay like that for long. I’ve seen many men killed in these very walls, and I’ve shot every one of them.” I nod, not knowing what to say, but I can finally connect the dots of what led him to me. “The last job as a gang member I had was to burn all the evidence. Something in my heart hasn’t been able to burn this place.” He sighs, “My mom now owns a cafe, she’s doing better now. I sort of know what my siblings do… I guess the reason why I never set this place aflame. Is that this place was the last place the five of us were all together at the same time.” I move my hand under his jacket and rub his back, trying to comfort him.  

I see him blinking back the tears in his eyes, “I wonder if they ever think about me--.” That’s when I cut him off, “Of course they do, they’re your family, they love you Bambam. I know the crimes you committed were with good intentions. You wanted your family safe even if it meant risking your own safety.” He pulls me into a hug, as he cries against my shoulder. “Bambam,...” I coo as I run my fingers through hair, he lets out a small, ‘hmm’. I tell him, “Maybe when the next holiday comes up, you contact them and have your family over." He gulps, “I,... yeah, you always know just what to say (Y/n).” He sighs again before looking into my eyes, “But you’re my family too.” I shake my head with a laugh, “Bambam, I feel the same way” He kisses my nose as he pulls out a lighter. “Have you ever danced in the rain?” I shake my head ‘no’, “I guess it’s time to change that” 

He throws up a lighter as it spins upward into the air, it hits the fire sprinkler. The sprinklers shrill to life as he spins me around. He cheekily states, “Don’t worry I turned off the alarms years ago” I laugh, as he twirls us around. Our feet moving together like they were always meant to dance together. He spins me around till he reaches the record player. He turns on the record player soft classical music fills the air, “I didn’t know you liked this.” I whisper to him, talking feels like it would ruin this moment. He whispers back to me our faces drawing closer to each other, “There is a lot you don’t know about me, but I’m willing to share.” He winks as I pull him closer to me, “I would love to listen.” I whisper in his ear and he looks down at my lips, then up at my eyes, I wink as he pulls me in for a kiss.

We pull away and I can’t help but giddily laugh as he rubs his nose against mine. He laughs and kisses my nose again, “I got a plan” he tells me with a brilliant smile coming over his face. He takes me down a level, to a room that isn’t raining. “I’m going to teach you how to shoot a gun” My eyes get big, not ready for that realization. “I-I uh…” before my resolve becomes clear, “Okay!” I say, confidence growing in me as he goes to a cabinet and pulls out two guns. “This room was used as the meeting room back in the day. It's soundproof, don’t worry, plus the cops are downtown and were on the outskirts.” 

He leans a table against a wall for us to shoot at, he grabs a gun and hits it dead in the middle without even looking. My jaw drops, “Fuck,... That was kinda hot.” I let out our hair dripping water droplets onto the carpet. He winks back at me as I ask, “You really think I can do that?” He smirks, “I don’t think you can, I know you can.” I gulp, and nod, I try to shoot the same way he did before he goes, “No, no, no!” I give him a look, “I was just doing that to show off” I make an ‘o’ with my lips understanding what he meant before. Before I tsk, “Showoff” He winks at me, “Let me show you how you properly shoot a gun while you’re learning.” I laugh, “Alright, Babe.” He kisses me, “I like that,” I raise my brow, “Which part?” He rolls his eyes, “The Babe part, but I have to say kissing you is definitely a second best.” I shake my head with a smile apparent on my face, “You’re too cheeky,...” He laughs, “Maybe so,” he says with a shrug. 

The atmosphere changes from light-hearted to serious. As he positions my legs, correcting my stance before guiding me into my first shot. I almost hit the middle dead on with his hands wrapped around mine. My heart beating a mile a minute, not because I was shooting a gun, but because Bambam makes my heart all fuzzy. Simple things like this with Bambam makes my heart beat like it’s running a marathon. This moment reminds me of that famous scene in ‘Ghost’. Where Molly and Sam have their fingers intertwined as they try to make a pottery piece. I can still hear the soft classical music playing upstairs. Not loud enough to alert people that someone is in the building, but loud enough for us to hear.

He shoots a few more times with me, holding me steady. When he finally lets me shoot by myself, I end up missing the table completely and hit the wall. He laughs, but quickly cuts himself off when I look back at him with a glare. “Whoops?” He laughs and turns me around and kisses me, “You’re cute. Now just aim a little to your right this time.” I nod before turning around and hitting the table this time.

I end up running out of bullets in my gun, I sigh still not able to hit the center, but I’m not willing to give up. He handed me a gun full of bullets and that’s all it takes to shoot it dead on. He applauds and kisses me, “I’m so proud of you, that’s my Babe, now let’s play target practice!” My cheeks are bright red as he puts the table back down on the ground and sets up a few old beer bottles on it. He moves behind me and without fail, I hit each of them, “I’m so proud of you.” He kisses me yet again, “I think I love you” he whispers to me. My cheeks are scarlet as I put my face into his chest, hiding my blush. I whisper back to him, “I think I love you too, Babe.” His cheeks scarlet like mine before he spins me around. He tells me to hold on for a second before he comes back with two towels, handing me one to dry off with. The fire sprinklers sounding to a stop, the record player still looping around. He grabs my hand as we walk back up the stairs together, I look at him, and I can’t help but feel my heart skip a few beats.

We sway together as the record ends, “I know we only have one more hour together tonight, but I wish it was more.” I nod, “I wish for it to last longer too,...” I look in his eyes seeing galaxies floating around in them, I could look at them forever and never grow bored. My heart feels full every time I catch a glimpse of them. “Let’s get you home,” I sigh, I know he’s right, but I never want this to end. When we get outside of the building I mutter that “I’m cold.” Not a second later his leather jacket is on my shoulders. “But- You’re gonna be cold,” I say with my brows furrowed as he just shrugs. “With your arms wrapped around me, I’ll never feel the chill.” I shake my head as I put my arms into his leather jacket, that cheeky man.

My heart aching when I had to give it back to him, I kiss him one last time before mingling into the crowd. Eventually, finding one of my fellow workers, I sigh as we talk about who we were with. Mine was a supposed newbie, I wanted as my regular, while in reality, I was with,... the man of my dreams. I think to myself as the guards come and pick us up, they’re the reason we can never leave. They’ll track us down, only a few have made it without getting caught since they are at every exit in the city. If you’ve been caught once, you’re under their close watch.

---

I lock the door as Bambam pulls off his leather jacket. I whisper to him,“ Tonight everyone is out on the town.” He nods asking me if I'm ready to take this next step. As I nod he brings his hand up to my cheek and I lean into his touch. He tells me with certainty that, “I love you, you’re stronger now, I know you’re ready too.” I bring his face to mine, locking eyes with him, he holds my face with both of his hands. I wrap my arms around his neck and we pull each other into a kiss. When we part, I let him know that I love him too. With a wink, he tells me, “You’re my ride or die.” I whisper back, “You’re my partner in crime.” 

---

Two Sundays later, Bambam took me back to the abandoned building. He went over to the record player and switched out Tchaikovsky for Jim Croce. We lay on the top floor listening to Jim Croce’s acoustic ring throughout the building. I roll towards him as “Time In A Bottle” comes on and I sing to him. “I'd save every day like a treasure and then, again, I would spend them with you” He rolls over facing me, and for a while, we look into each other's eyes. The song starts to end as he sings back to me, “I've looked around enough to know. That you're the one I want to go through time with.” He carefully places his hand on my cheek, caressing it as we stare into the depths of each other's souls. He asks me, “You want to make this official?” I nod and without a second thought I let my heart talk for me, “I love you, Bambam.” He pulled me into his chest, “I love you too, (Y/n).”  

He looks at my eyes again, conveying an emotion that could never be explained but understood. “We’re going to get out of this situation,...” He trails off, and I peck his lips as we listen to Jim Croce's voice, filling in our silence. I look at him, “When we get out of this situation, we’re going to leave crime forever right?” He nods, “Yeah, but what do you wanna be once we are in Cali?” I smile staring off dreamily telling him, “I always wanted to write lyrics, and compose songs for others to enjoy. I write them all the time, I think it would be nice for someone to finally hear them.” Before I ask, “What about you, Bambam?” He grins at me, “I have always dreamed of being a tattoo artist, that’s why I have so many tattoos,...” He trails off dreaming about the future, before he tells me, “But,...” I lean my head to the side wondering what the ‘but’ was about, “I want you to in my future too.” I giggle, “You’re cute, I’ll let you in on a little secret.” He perks his head up, “You’re apart of my future from now on till forever.” He giggles and kisses me, “I love you,” he tells me when we part, “I love you too, Babe” I rub my nose against his. 

---

It has taken eight months to get this plan perfect to the last ‘T’. He pulls out two pairs of rubber gloves, as I change into a suitable outfit for what we’re about to do. The thought that keeps running through my mind is no one else will have to worry about “The Mac" abusing them. Bambam pulls off his leather jacket, not wanting it tainted. I move towards him and peck his lips, tonight is the night. When everyone left, Bambam called me ‘out of the blue’, and I told “The Mac.” He agreed to stay here to watch out for me, to make sure Bambam didn’t get out of hand. I know full well he’d be asleep, his room is soundproof even if I screamed for help he would turn a blind eye. As long he is getting a part of the customer’s pay, who is he to get involved? I smirk, he fell right into our trap, Bambam hands me a gun after we put on our gloves. The same devious grin painted on his face, “It’s all yours, Babe.” We walk up the stairs careful not to make a sound, I open the door, our plan coming full circle. “The Mac,” lying on his bed blissfully unaware of his looming death with a single shot, he’s dead and gone. He was the reason why we were trapped in this life, and now he’s trapped in the afterlife. Bambam grabs his wrist with his gloved hands and checks his pulse, “Are you ready to live in Cali with me?” He asks me with this beautiful grin painting his face as if he didn’t just help commit a murder. We move towards each other, my arms wrap around him kissing him, he laughs as he kisses me. 

We loot his safe box, riddled with wads of cash. Lucky for us that he never believed in the banking system. We throw the cash into a bag, as we make a mad dash back to my room. Bambam throws his signature leather jacket on taking my hand in his. He brings it up to his lips and laying a gentle kiss on top of it. He looks up at me biting his lip, “Let’s burn this place to the ground, Babe.” I smirk, as we pour the gas cans throughout the mansion, that once felt like home. It is fitting to see this place burn like the literal hell this place has been. He smirks at me as he pulls out a match, grabbing my hand, with the bag of money we rush out of the mansion. He strikes it on the siding, the flame burning bright as he throws it. The match landing on a puddle of gasoline through the open window. 

Hand in hand we rush to his motorcycle parked two streets away. Adrenaline running through our veins as I grab his face in my hands and tell him, “Kiss me you animal.” He holds my cheeks and brings my lips to his. Standing next to his motorcycle we stand there making out. when we part I lay my head on his shoulder and whisper in his ear, “Let’s start our new life.” He nods as we ride out into the morning sun. My pockets are heavy, my heart is free, and my lover is in my arms, everything is alright, we’ll be out of New York soon. 

By the time we reached the city lines all of the guards had rushed to see the explosion. Now, we’re about a state away in Pennsylvania, leaning against a guardrail. On an old country road, the sun shining brightly onto both of us. He tosses the gun into the rushing river below, my hand finds his and he intertwines our fingers. “How does it feel?” I ask him, “Freeing.” He tells me softly, resting his head on top of mine, “Yeah,...” I sigh in agreement, this all feels like a dream. I know it’s all real, the blood of a scumbag is on our hands, but with Bambam by my side,... All that doesn’t matter to me, he kisses me, “Do you think we’ll make it?” He asks me, “Babe, I’ve seen your works of art, they would be stupid not to take you in. You’ll try anything once and I know you won't stop until you make it big.” He kisses my forehead thanking me, “What about me?” I ask nervousness riddled in my voice, “It’s not even a question,...” I tilt my head, “Why?” He smiles, “One month into our romantic relationship you played guitar in front of me for the first time. You sang your heart out, that sunny Sunday is something I could never forget. The longest day of the year, that sun didn’t go down until you stopped playing. That abandoned building is going to hold many memories for us, but some of which we can never tell. If you can’t make it with the big dogs at first, I know you’ll find a way to surpass them.” He turns my face to look him dead in the eyes, it’s like I’m looking into them for the first time all over again. With my free hand, I reach up and hold his cheek, I tell him confidently, “We can do this.” He nods, “I know we can'' he states sealing our promise with a kiss.

In Ohio, we stopped at The Rockies Eatery to grab lunch. We sat down in a booth across from each other when we noticed the t.v. They already are airing “The Mac’s” death as we order our drinks we’re entranced by the television set. He grabs my hand and his thumb starts rubbing small circles over the back of my hand. I watch in fear even though I know I killed him. Fear is too strong of a word to describe this feeling. But the memories that replay in my brain makes me sick to my stomach. It’s a memoir of his life, recanting his glory of playing on the NFL team the Buffalo Bills. That when he left he got mixed up in gang business, that's when they conclude his memoir telling the viewers that, “Millikan Gillions has been concluded,... a victim of gang killings. While some may say, he’s better off dead, others will mourn the loss of a man who was an all-star running back for the Bills. The sports world is taking a major hit as we mourn Gillions. Rest in peace, Millikan Gillions, this is channel twenty-four at four.” The rest of it drowns out in my ears as I stare at Bambam in shock, his face making a similar motion.

When the waiter comes back over he says, “Man, isn’t that something,... The Browns have a fighting chance without the Bills to stop them, right?” We laugh and I tell him, “The Browns might have it in the bag this year.” The guy agrees and asks us what we want for food. After we order, and he leaves I look at Bambam and we both sigh in relief. This has been one hell of a turn of events, he rubs my knuckles. My heart feels light in my chest as I whisper to him, “You’re my ride or die.” He winks at me and tells me in a low voice, “It seems like we got off scot-free,... We can rest easy in California now.” There are some things better kept as secrets, no one will have to fear "The Mac" again. We’re free, I think to myself as tears well up in my eyes. I blink them back as I stare into Bambam's eyes that are pricking with tears. The emotion we feel at this moment is indescribable like a huge weight has been lifted off of us.

[icefir-windbreaker]

Pumpkin, Pumpkin Pinny

A short Halloween story I had written today on Halloween. Enjoy.

In the Utah, U.S.A there was an… Acceptial woman who is an outcast by her school, she is a foreign lady from another country of Paris and she goes by Pumpkin Pinny.

How come she gotten her name? She had grown pumpkins on a lonely farm yet why is outcast was her looking into many and a gillion, million stories and histories of witchcraft once used by the coven of ladies who dealt with the Devil.

She was often the prime target of 7 girls who go to the same school, each of them named Nevy Jeauos, Prida Vanity, Tria Desare, Ira Knufe, Devora Glutton, Almos Midmoon and Greda Richardson as they each of them held the desire and joy tormenting Pumpkin Pinny as they often call her by that nickname and hence it honoring it with no further doubt.

They had often socially isolate her from everyone around her and be hated by everyone by these seven women had often spread lies like these “I don’t let my sister or brother be anywhere near her whenever she’s doing witchcraft,”  “She is in need of blood of your own,” “She will cast a curse that will make you deformed and never loved by man,” “My mother had been cursed by her in a form of fire” and “Do not let her anywhere near you.”

Over the course of five years, the whole town had grown to hate and isolate the poor forien girl who is just like them yet different as it had gotten so bad for her that she had often gone from and straight back from school so she can avoid the death glares and burning hateful comments of those around her.

Then one cold Autumn night, she had heard from one of her classmates that there was an old mansion just 12 miles far from town and had been abandoned since the 1400's, she was interested in it right away after hearing more about its history with one witch who had been burned to death but before placing a curse on seven of her accusers that it will eventually be their time when someone had took her scared keepsake.

She traveled there to see what the witch’s scared keepsake was and sure enough, it was a necklace with a purple crystal with a silver chain attached to it. Without even thinking about it, she snatched the keepsake and ran back home with her win that night as she is feeling too proud of herself to find it.

But when morning came, she had gotten out of bed and went to the mirror to see that in confusion that her hair had gotten a darker shade of black and her eyes are almost mixed with red and brown. But she had thought that she was just seeing things and went to school as usual.

Nvey was the first one to see her and thrown the horrible remarks on her appearance before slapping her while she laughed and then walking away. Pumpkin Pinny was for the first time she got angry and whispered “I hope you rot in a cell.” in a growl. She was surprised that none of the girls didn’t come near her but then again thought that they are maybe not in the mood to bother her today.

The first day and the first time it struck after the two weeks had passed, she had heard the shocking news that Nevy had killed her younger sister in an act of Envious rage after she had gotten the love and praise from her parents as she had no remorse for what she did; she just wanted her parents’ attention to herself and herself alone, no one else and even heard that she was found dead in a prison cell with maggots feasting off of her.

“What a strange coincidence.” She thought and then went to her drawer when she had kept the necklace in secret from her family and realized that the crystal had changed from purple to crimson red.

The second time after the incident, the second one had commenced; it struck that Prida had been horrifically disfigured in an accident after nelgenting a lit candle that took her father’s life but her Pride was striped when her family had disowned her due to this and forced to live a life of a homeless orphan. Again, the crystal had changed its color to yellow this time.

The third time, the third incident started with Devora, she died from a stomach rapure when her father had gotten drunk during a family feast and she had been eating and drinking as she feeling gluttonous until it had proved to be her fatal downfall. Once more, the crystal’s color had changed to to army green.

The fourth time it was Tiras’ turn to pay, she was found in her dead with a knife through her heart and clearly, she was violated and the killer had murdered her to silence her for good, she had often gotten lust from men but she had no grudges against as they didn’t share the same things as her so it was so out of the blue. The crystal had changed its color to light purple after Tiras’ life was claimed.

The fifth incident happened with Almos, she had left alone with a baby brother to raise but he was found dead after being left alone and alienated by his older sister to starve to death as she had just sleep like a sloth, something that her parents can never forgive her for as they had shunned and sent her away to prison as she begged but her pleas had fallen on deaf ears. Pinny had looked at the crystal and watched it changed color from light purple to cornflower blue.

The sixth incident had involved Greda somehow, she had gotten more and more than her heart’s desire but it’s still not enough to satisfy, she begged for more but her parents had cut off all flow of money and gold from her. Only enraged her so that night, she had snuck into her parents sleeping chamber and slit their throats in their sleep in order to get the inheritance, after loving and caring Greda since she is borne but she wanted more as any spoiled brat had often done in an act of Greed. The crystal had changed into orange colored.

These six incidents had claimed and ruined the lives of Pumpkin Pinny’s tormentors after they had made her life miserable and worthless by making lies that got sociality despised her in any possible.

Ira Knufe had confronted her one day and said “I know it was you, you terrible witch foreigner! You are a demon yet as I had no idea what you are doing but this needs to end now! Or so help me, I will kill your family if you don’t! Understand!?” before punching (and scratching her face with her fingernail) and left.

Pumpkin Pinny, left to cry on the dirt road and face bleeding from the open wound, she then cried in anger “I had to endure you and your horrible friends for so long in these five years and you dare threatening my family even though we had done nothing wrong to you all? I wish the wolves will end your life!” as her cry of the curse.

The seventh and final incident occurred just seven hours after the confrontation, Ira Knufe was found by local hunters after a pack of wolves had hunted and killed her in the most tragic feast possible in the sun’s golden light rising from the peak of the mountains.

Pumpkin Pinny knew it had gone too far and must end the curse, one way or another. Feeling remorseful and guilty, she took the necklace, the witch’s most scared keepsake and ran back to the mansion the next night.

She placed the necklace back on the dresser with the mirror where she found it and then gotten out of there right away soon after. Just like that, the curse had come to a fated end and everything had gone back to normal but the damage had been done already to the town.

They sing the song with wrote about Pumpkin Pinny to this day, they wrote the song about the seven girls who wronged her and paid the price for it after Pinny had somehow placed a curse on them and the whole town had NEVER dared to mistreat her again.

[kaysealarkmain]

Moving On

Terra rolled her eyes, ignoring his smile and her conscious. She should really be home in bed. She shouldn’t be here. Of course, she was being a good friend, maybe a good sister? They were like family and they did save the world together at one point in their lives. Being on a team was one way to force bonding on a group of people.

“This is the last time,” she muttered to herself. “Cuz it’s all Cooper after this.”

You should do what’s best, echoed in her thoughts. But it’ll be the last time. You just have to pick up the idiot who called you right before you hopped into bed. Terra couldn’t believe there was a time when she found this endearing — like she was the only one James could depend on. She was the one person who could help him out when he was in a pinch. Now, this was just annoying. She wanted to go to bed and get ready for work the next day.

She rolled her wheel to the right. She could see James from the other end of the street even though her headlights and the street lamps were the only things that allowed visibility. She drove up to the man standing on the pavement. His thin pair of boxers was the only thing protecting him from the cool whispers of the night. His garments were collected in his arms, but spilled as he bent down to her while she rolled down her window. His jeans and shoes dropped from the pile. Their eyes followed, but eventually their gazes met again. The girl gave a blank stare and he responded with a grin.

Terra rolled her eyes, ignoring his smile and her conscious. She should really be home in bed. She shouldn’t be here. Of course, she was being a good friend, maybe a good sister? They were like family and they did save the world together at one point in their lives. Being on a team was one way to force bonding on a group of people.

“You’re not going to say bye to your lady friend?” she teased him.

“Well, you know the drill.” His laugh rolled off his tongue.

“Get in,” she shook her head.

He laughed, “You’re my hero, Terra.” He looked down at her again, his eyes fixated at her top. “What are you wearing?” He figured she would be frozen from the frigid late night air if it wasn’t for the oversized gray jacket. James swore that he saw that jacket somewhere before — on someone else before, someone male.

“Got a problem with my pajamas?” playful anger in her voice. “You’re the one who called saying it was an emergency”

“Were you really sleeping?” James slipped into the passenger seat. “OR were you up building some fancy cellphone app?” he finished as slammed the door closed.

“Shut up.”

“Oooohhhh,” he slipped his white long sleeve over his shoulders. “1 for James.”

“1,000 for Terra,” she retorted. “Guess who saved your ass from one night stands countless times?”

“Yeah? We’re going there?” he scoffed. “Should I count every zombie that I shot down before you infected their computers with viruses? CUZ OH YEAH THAT’S 50–80 GILLION.” He moved towards her, crossing into her space.

“Stop,” she planted her palm on James’s face and pushed him back to his area. “You’re an idiot,” she smiled.

The drive was like previous saving acts. He would recall his encounter while changing into his garments and she would pretend to listen. This time it wasn’t hard for her to keep her eyes on the road and off his well-toned arms or giggle at the sight of his washboard abs. Terra didn’t have to hide the look of seething disgust for the women he attempted to pleasure that night. She barely listened to him as he laughed at his own pick-up lines. This time, Terra was fighting the gnawing felling in her gut.

“Hey!” he yelled. Damn, he was always so loud, even back then. “Are you even listening?”

“Oh, no.”

“TERRA, IT WAS IMPORTANT.” He was always a little too dramatic too.

“But, we’re here.” She put her car in park.

“Awesome! I can’t wait to play video games!“ he reached for the door handle. “Wait!-“ James quickly circled back to her. “Why are we at my place?”

She scratched her head focusing her attention on the roof of her car. Terra wouldn’t dare to look at him. One look of his pout and she would answer any of his appeals.

“Teeeeerrrrrr-raaaaaaaaaaaa,” he whined.

Terra cleared her throat, but not the feeling in her chest.

“Well,” she had to phrase this carefully before she offended him. “I’m tired.”

“But we ALWAYS go to your place after this.”

“Ummm…” she turned to her window.

“Come on. We should catch up. I haven’t seen you for a long time. When was the last time we had a one-on-one like this? Was it like a month ago?”

“This is the last time…” It didn’t come off as strong as she wanted it to.

“What the fuck?” His response was abrupt. “Is it because of that prick?”

“Coop isn’t a-“

“Coop? Since when did you- Is it because you’re dating?”

“No…” Dammit, I’m getting nervous. She didn’t know why James scared her when he raised his voice in a threatening way. Maybe it was because Terra only knew him as the jokester on the team. He lightened the mood when they were all feeling down.

“Well, it’s just that, you know, Harry always called him that and it sort of stuck.”

“Are you serious? I saved the world and-“

“Get out.”

James was taken aback. Terra never yelled at him like this in the 18 years that he knew her. His heart sank when he saw her white knuckles on the wheel. He reached out to them only to be interrupted again.

“Get out.” It was louder and darker.

“Hey, I’m-“ he paused trying to reword his apology. James never had the pride to take the blame for something, especially when it was his fault. “I just hate that I’m your #2 now.”

Terra yelled some curse words before getting out of her seat and slamming her door. His gaze followed her as she made her way around her car. It had been years since he took a good look at her. She was once the tiny framed, flat chested tech wizard, who he always got a knack for teasing her for her teenage crush on him. Well, she didn’t really have a choice. He was the most handsome one of their super team, if he had to say so himself. Terra didn’t really grow in the chest department, but she made up for her womanly qualities with smarts, kindness, and wit.

Terra pried open his door. “Get. Out. Now.”

James looked at her hand on the top of the door window. His eyes continued to analyze his longtime friend until they landed on the sliver band on her finger. He swallowed the regret that swelled in his throat. Heh. She always liked it simple, didn’t she? Sorrow filled the blue of his eyes. He sighed and finally complied. The man did his best to smile but they both knew he couldn’t hide the tormented storm stirring beneath the surface.

“You know, you could have waited.”

Fire ignited in her eyes as her brow furrowed. “You know, you weren’t the only one who saved the world and didn’t get what they wanted. Not everything can be handed to you just ‘cuz you saved the world 12 years ago!”

“Are you kidding me?! Harry got a full ride to Brown and ended up finding the cure to like 20 diseases! You got to study in Japan and became a tech queen!! You’re the female Steve Jobs. Cooper got-“

“Cooper got what? Cooper got to be a Senator after opening an organization dedicated to fighting those zombies we risked our teen lives fighting.”

“Cooper got you.”

Terra undid the tight grip in her fists. She saw the tears brimming in his eyes. She only saw him cry twice in her life. The first time it was because she snuck around their base and found his secret spot. He missed his family and couldn’t handle the responsibility of saving millions of lives. The second time was when he was reunited with them for the first time ever. Both times she panicked and rushed over to hug him.

“What about me? I just work at the bar, get drunk, and sleep with any chick that recognizes my accomplishments from back then.”

She hated it when he got emotional. Terra once found it endearing, brave even. She could never let herself break in front of their teammates. James was always the one who managed to remind everyone they were only human. Sure, he was a flirt, but that made her fall in love back then.

Terra took a deep breath to restructure her thoughts. “James, you made your own choices.” She looked up to him. “We can’t live in the past anymore.”

“Then why did you move faster than me?”

“What Cooper and I have is not your business.”

They were quiet.

“This is the last time.” She closed the passenger door. “Good night, James.”

“When did it happen?” he gestured to her hand.

“Oh!” She hid her hand behind her back. “It actually didn’t happen yet. You know Coop can’t hide anything. He said I could wear it since I already found it.” She giggled to herself reminiscing the look of surprise and embarrassment when she found it under a pile of his campaign documents, which he asked her to review. “We’ll probably announce it officially after he tells my parents next weekend.”

He hated it. He used to be the reason for the blush across her cheeks or her bunching the ends of her jacket in her hands. Cooper, his longtime rival, was the reason she endearingly rambled.

“Don’t forget to invite me to the wedding.”

“Of course,” she grinned from ear to ear.

They waved final goodbyes and he watched her drive away.