#mai is giving washing machine heart energy

[melzula]

Someone Else

pairings: Zuko x Princess!reader, Zuko x Mai

notes: i was writing smoke and shadow when i realized i should probably give more insight to zuko and mai’s relationship in the fire lilies universe before i delved into the story. also someone requested i cover their conversation on boiling rock so here it is :)

summary: Zuko is forced to confront his past

~ part of the fire lilies series ~

As Zuko struggled against the hold of the calloused prison guards who were dragging him away to whatever punishment awaited him, he couldn’t help but think of y/n.

He remembered the way she’d struggled against the crystals that held her and his uncle captive in the catacombs and how she’d urged him to go on without her to help the Avatar. Her eyes had sparkled beautifully in the light, and it had been the last time she had looked upon him with love and care. Now when she looked at him, her eyes were cold and void of any love for him. They looked upon him with anger and resentment, and he knew he deserved it. He deserved every last bit of her animosity.

Growing closer to the open cell, Zuko began to contemplate the possibility of Sokka’s plan failing. He feared he may never get to see y/n again and make things right, apologize to her for the hurt and anguish he’d caused, and she’d spend the rest of her life hating him for what he’d done. The chance of never returning to his Princess seemed a far worse fate than anything the warden had planned for him on Boiling Rock.

The guards finally toss the Prince into the cell, his body colliding harshly with the floor.

“I didn’t do anything wrong!” Zuko protests with a groan before pulling himself up onto the sole chair in the room.

“Come on, Zuko,” a voice chides harshly, its owner carefully emerging from the shadows, “we all know that’s a lie.”

“Mai?” Zuko utters in surprise, his stomach immediately twisting itself into knots. Guilt creeps in his gut at the sight of her, and he dreads the conversation he knows is coming. He’d hoped he’d never have to face her again, but it seemed fate had other plans.

“How did you know I was here?”

“Because I know you so well,” she replies sarcastically, her cold glare never leaving his slumped figure on the chair.

“But how-“

“The warden’s my uncle, you idiot,” Mai chides. Her features soften for a moment as she reaches into her robes, the heartbreak and betrayal overpowering her anger for a moment. However, her wrath returns as she presents Zuko with his own letter. “The truth is, I guess I don’t know you.”

Zuko is silent, his eyes guiltily scanning over the scroll. Perhaps it had been wrong of him to end their relationship in such a way, but she probably wouldn’t have let him live to see another day if he’d looked her in the face and told her there was someone else. How can you look the girl you’ve known since you were children in the eyes and tell her you’d only used her to get over your previous girlfriend?

“All I get is a letter?” She scoffs indignantly. “You couldn’t even look me in the eyes to tell me you were leaving me for someone else?! You couldn’t even leave me my dignity and rip my heart out in person?”

“I didn’t mean to-“ Zuko begins to say, but this only seems to anger her further.

“You didn’t mean to?!” Mai retorts before unfurling the scroll to read the letter aloud. “‘Dear Mai, I’m sorry that you have to find out this way, but I’m leaving.’”

“Stop!” He interjects, subtle irritation clear in his tone and his features. “This isn’t about you.”

“Right,” Mai drawls dully. “It was never about me. It was always about her.”

“Mai-“

“You told me she never meant anything to you, but that was a lie, wasn’t it?” She insists, and Zuko’s silence only infuriates her more. “Wasn’t it?”

“…It was,” he relents quietly, his guilty eyes finally meeting her stern gaze. “But this isn’t about her or you. This is about the Fire Nation.”

“Thanks Zuko, that makes feel all better,” Mai replies dryly before harshly tossing the scroll at his head.

Rubbing the spot where the paper had made contact, the Prince rises from his seat and looks at his ex with an empathetic gaze. “I never wanted to hurt you.”

“Then why did you do it? Were you just dating me to get over her? Was any of it real, or did you just pretend I was her while we were together to make yourself feel better?”

“You have to understand I didn’t mean for things to turn out this way,” Zuko pleads earnestly, guilt clear upon his face. “It was never my intention to break your heart. I thought being with you would help me feel at home again, and in a way it did. You were familiar, someone I cared about. I thought maybe with time…”

“Did you ever even love me?!” She cries angrily. The truth was ugly, and the tightness in her chest was suffocating. How was she supposed to react to the news that she’d been used by the boy she’d been in love with since she was a young girl? She thought she’d finally won his heart only to learn none of it had been real.

Zuko remains silent, and that’s enough of an answer for her.

“You know, you two deserve each other,” she spits harshly, her words like venom. “A selfish Prince and a selfish Princess. I guess I know what you see in her now.”

“Don’t speak about her that way,” Zuko snaps. Mai laughs bitterly in return.

“I hope she’s not stupid enough to take you back. I hope she breaks your heart the way you broke mine,” she utters quietly. “You deserve it.”

“It’s not like that,” he argues, “I didn’t leave just for her. I have to do this to save my country.”

“Save it?” She repeats incredulously. “You’re betraying your country. Joining the Avatar and going after the South’s water bending Princess? You’re a traitor.”

“That’s not how I see it,” Zuko rebuts firmly. A tense silence fills the room as Mai indignantly crosses her arms over her chest and turns her body away from him. “And I hope you’ll see it that way too.”

“I won’t let you fool me again,” she replies coldly. Though her exterior is hard and angry, her heart is crumbling inside. Mai desperately wanted to know why she hadn’t been enough for Zuko. Why couldn’t he love her the way he’d loved the Princess? What did y/n have that she didn’t? Why her? Why not me?

Their conversation is cut short by the prison guard sent to protect Mai from the ongoing riot, and Zuko uses the opportunity to escape the cell and lock it from the outside. Though he’s free from captivity, he finds himself frozen in place by the girl’s gaze. Her eyes are full of wrath, but they shine with tears that refuse to fall. Locking into her intense stare, the guilt begins to creep up on him again. He’ll never be able to undo the hurt he’s caused her, but he hopes that maybe one day she’ll be able to forgive him.

Breaking away from her gaze, Zuko rushes towards the courtyard to join Sokka and Suki in their escape plan. Mai’s heartbroken eyes still haunt him, but the image is soon replaced with that of y/n’s. Unlike Mai, her eyes had been full of sadness when she’d been met with his betrayal in Ba Sing Se. She hadn’t been angry, she’d been disappointed, and that had felt worse.

His legs urged him to run faster now, his motivation to return home to his Princess stronger than ever.

Zuko was going to make things right, he had to. And he hoped she’d give him the chance.

~~~~~

| atla tags: @sirkekselord @chronic-daydreamer @niktwazny303

| zuko tags: @thebluelcdy @royahllty @the-firebender-girl @ilovespideyyy @yiyibetch @eridanuswave @lammello @a-monsters-love @knaite-solo @taeeemin

| fire lilies tags: @titaniafire @emberislandplayers @kikaninchen-2 @music-geek19 @thia-aep @thyunnamed @haylaansmi @nataliahaslosthershit @idkdude776 @aangsupremacy @thirstyforsometea @ihaveaproblem98 @brown-eyed-thang @xapham @misnmatchedsox @chewymoustachio @that-bucket-hat-gal @chilifrylizard2 @kyomihann @kaylove12 @kiwihoee @freggietale @moon-spirit-yue @bubblegum-bee-otch

[rogueddie]

Climax / Decide (Free Space)

The hospital room that Max is staying in is never silent, the humming of machines and the beep of the heart monitor constantly filling the space. But it's always quiet. Even when Lucas visits, reading and talking to her. He speaks softly, voice almost drowned out by the machine.

They don't want to risk hearing anything. They wait, on bated breath.

Steve has taken permanent residence in one of the chairs, pulled up close to the bed so he can hold her hand- it's the only way he's able to get to sleep anymore.

"Hey, sweetheart," one of the nurse greets, voice so hushed that she may as well whisper. She's holding Steves blanket, freshly washed. "The showers are free too, if you want to get washed up."

"Max," is all he manages to say in response.

"I'll stay and keep an eye on her. I need to check how she's doing anyway."

"Thank you."

She's one of the nurses that is supposed to coax him back to his own room. She never has though, only insisting that he takes regular showers and that she regularly change his bandages.

He can never remember her name. He's sure he'll feel bad about that later, but he doesn't have the energy.

The showers aren't great, and he doesn't have any of his skin or hair products. He barely has the energy to stand under the water, nevermind clean properly.

He's exhausted. And, looking in the mirror as he tries to style his freshly cleaned hair, he can see it.

His eyes look almost purple, sunken into his face. Even his cheeks look hollow. Thin. Something about him almost lifeless.

It feels like years since he went to the school, to help the relief efforts with Robin and Dustin.

Eyeing himself, looking at himself fully over, he has to wonder how he managed to act like everything was ok for as long as he did. He's not sure, in retrospect, how he even managed to stay on his feet.

"Alright?" The nurse smiles when he gets back.

"Yellow," he answers.

She nods, gestures for him to perch on Max's bed so she can check for herself.

He left the bandages off, tossed in one of the hospital bins. He's not sure why he still needs them- sure, his wounds are still bad, but they're not as colorful as they were when he collapsed.

"You're doing so much better," the nurse comments. "You'll probably be allowed to go home soon."

"No," he responds. He turns to Max.

She would be alone. Lucas can't stay all the time and, with the gates open, everyone is busy. He can't leave her alone, knowing that she wouldn't have anyone who truly loves her there when she wakes.

"Ok," the nurse sighs. "A couple weeks. That's as long as we can keep you."

It's not enough, but it's more than he could ask for.

"Thank you."

"Don't," she shakes her head. She pats his shoulder as she pulls back- he hadn't even noticed that she'd started wrapping a new bandage around him. "I have a baby sister. I'd be losing my mind if I couldn't be with her."

"I'm not-" Steve tries.

"You are," she smiles. "Maybe not by blood, but I've seen how you are with her. I know family when I see it."

He doesn't know what to say. She doesn't seem bothered though- she never is. She gives him another pat, before heading out.

Steve moves back to his seat, taking hold of Max's hand again, mulling over her words.

She's right, he knows. Not that he'd ever say it to Max, could never take that spot, but he finally admits it to himself.

She's his sister. She, and the other kids, are his real family.

[muzzleroars]

Hi!, now i would like to know how Gabriel reacts to the revived half angelic V1, did he expected his light to work or did he just do it out of pure desperation and without plan?

How would V1 itself react?, some questions ago you said it was in fact scared of death.

(Also, Gabriel doesn't have a soul after falling?, or i understood the giving his light to V1 wrong?)

I hope you have a nice day/night!.

(see this!)

gabriel has no way of knowing if his idea will work, and he knows very well he isn't welcome in heaven besides - he could be killed before he's even able to enact his plan, especially as he must carry and protect v1's body the entire time. just reaching the gates on his own is no small feat, to cross the waters to mount purgatory and scale its impossible height, to vault over the river lethe with a burden that feels so much heavier than it should. and this is the easy part, the part he knows and meets no resistance in except from the environment itself. but when he breaks down the gates, when he carries his sword in one hand and draws up all the hell energy he can to himself, he knows he's putting everything he has into a plan that could fail...a plan that in fact may be likely to fail. but he has nothing else. he will burn himself out, he will finally feel how heaven itself scorns him and he will die by its hands, if only it gives him the chance to try.

initially, of course, gabriel can only be thrilled when the light takes, though the success isn't instant or obvious. quiet months go by where only a soft little thrum in v1's chassis keeps gabriel's hope alive, no further evidence of his plan working or any revival being imminent. something is in there, but fear that he's given it only stasis creeps in and once again leaves gabriel perpetually covered in a bloom of ice. yet that light is weaving into v1's machinery, it is slowly converting into divine math and taking up residence in the crystals that once made its mind. from living flame to living photons, the two come to understand each other and finally fuse into one, v1 coming back online with a boot sequence utterly incomprehensible to any other machine or angel. the instant is unspeakable in emotion, gabriel stricken still hearing the true whir of life that he had strained to pick up every second of every day since he had succeeded...yet it entirely fades into static when v1's optical lights up. and it moves. the moment exists in a dream-like haze, so ephemeral that he's consumed with an irrational fear that any movement, any utterance from him would collapse the reality in front of him. but v1 is looking at him. it's looking at him for the first time in years. years since it never woke up. years since he sat quietly alone in that bed for days. years since he washed up on the shores of purgatory and a blur takes over. to here, to now. looking at each other. frost closes in on his vision, tunneling into that brilliant blue light until he hears his name break through the roar in his ears.

his name in that funny little synthetic voice.

what can he do but be taken in by rapture, by fantastic ecstasy that flashes dim colors of blue and gold through his shattered, skeletal wings? it remembers him, it embraces him when he comes to it and his body all but collapses as unearthly sobs wrack through it...yet his tears flow freely against v1's warmth. neither of them want to let go, and they're likely held fast for the entire day for fear that this could disappear in an instant despite how hard won it was. but even in that euphoria adjustments need to be made, with v1's new life state quickly commanding both of their attention...as well as the ramifications of a reviving a machine that has died. for gabriel, nothing can dull the absolute wonder of having v1 back, nothing can keep a soft warmth from filling his chest that has been so empty and so cold for so long. v1 is different, and it has a period where it must relearn some things - there are painful, heart-skipping reminders of when its mind was failing, with sudden clumsiness or unexpected shut downs, but it always recovers quickly (though gabriel is a bit fussy in the beginning). otherwise...it's odd to see v1 imbued with the divine, to literally have what he lost centuries ago. it makes him strangely nostalgic, not jealous or regretful in the face of v1's newfound angelic nature, but finding himself lost in wistful memories of the time that was him. he tries not to be too precious about it, but in the beginning it can sometimes be overwhelming, finding himself with unexpected tears. it catches him off-guard when v1 seems to know exactly what it is that causes them before he even does himself - it was never good with emotions, and before v1 would have been bewildered. but not now, not when it feels the emotions of others so fully especially in joy or sadness - those were always gabriel's specialty.

v1 is an uncharted world to itself, its revival an explosion like the start of a new universe. its quantum mind had been scattered across space, impressions left echoing all around it - long and dark and like dreams and nightmares, a consciousness without cohesion. it had no senses, yet it was acted upon and it moved, moved through as a lifeless being webbed between particles that run and run from each other. it was something else, something unthinking yet still somewhere...until they were called home, drawn in and collected by the light put into it. the light rewrote it, yet it bent to it - it rapidly repaired the code within it, it inhabited long silent processors and lit them up once more, careful not burn up its memories, its whole life (though damage is done). but it cannot be fully machine as v1 cannot be fully divine, the two blending together in sometimes imperfect ways. the code doesn't always work, doesn't always make sense, and there are times v1 feels alien to itself, its computer mind flooded with divine information and instinct that it analyzes and disseminates into every part of itself. it's left too with broken, non-memories of the years it lied dead, visions both its computer and angelic mind try to understand and yet achieve nothing with. truly, v1's now become an entity with unknowable expanse that it must reckon with - to experience the death of the machine and return from it, to house the most advanced mind created by humanity and now to contain within those processors light of the most primal fount. it's. overloaded to say the least...yet, it would rather be here now, like this, than gone as it was, gabriel alone as he was. it's burdened, but v1 has always been a being of adaptability and it's never bitter about its resurrection - in fact, it likes hearing gabriel tell the story of how he did it (and he enjoys it too, seeing v1's new wings light up in golds and pinks)

(as far as gabe's soul goes, i consider it to be linked to his light and therefor mostly torn from him when that was stolen. he does retain threads of it despite heaven claiming fallen angels are entirely soulless, though it wouldn't be enough for him to return in any form if he were to die now. v1 therefor now houses the majority of his lost soul, but it has been completely given over to it so that it can live. however, because of who it once was and v1's own love, it still very much has an affinity for gabriel :])

[purplesurveys]

1726

Do you plan your meals in any way? Given how little I eat, the concept just sounds so foreign to me. I have one meal daily and just go with whatever's available at home – I don't decide on what I eat until I'm already in front of the fridge or pantry.

Have you ever been front row at a concert? Which one(s), and how was the experience? Just once, when I saw Paramore in 2018. It was incredibly fun, and because of that experience I know I'd still be willing to do it again with an artist I really admire.

Initially it felt daunting because I went alone, but once you're there you realize how nobody really gives a fuck about that kind of stuff – you're all there to have fun. That said I let loose as soon as the band showed up and I ended up having a wonderful time.

What's the strongest earthquake you've ever experienced? I'm just not sure about 'strongest.' I've felt more earthquakes than I can count, but they've all been more or less the same magnitude. There have been earthquakes that last quite a while though and it's those that have made me more nervous than usual.

Do you know your best friend's middle name? Both of theirs, yes.

If you have a passport, where do you store it for safekeeping? I have a mini drawer that stores all the Very Important Life Documents I Should Never Lose, so like my passport, birth certificate, NBI clearance and all that stuff.

What's your favourite kind of juice and when did you last drink some? I'm not a fan of juice.

Were you in the scouts when you were young? I wasn't.

How long are your fingernails right now? They're growing out-ish but they don't look too gross yet. I'd trim them before it gets to that point.

Do you like the Scream movies? I was obsessed with the first as a teenager, but I never held the same attachment with the sequels.

What sort of music have you been listening to lately? K-pop, what a surprise...

Are there any bills you need to pay? Not bills but I do have to pay the balance for K-pop merch I recently got by the 25th.

Have you ever been told you look like a celebrity? Yeah I've gotten Olivia Rodrigo and Frankie Pangilinan who themselves are lookalikes. I've also heard Anna Akana more times than I can count.

How many people could sleep in your home? (Not counting floor space, beds and couches only) Around 10, I'd say.

Are you a fast reader? Yes. I may have dropped reading years ago but I've never lost how quick I can be at reading.

Do you own a leather jacket? No, absolutely no use for it in this country.

Is there a university campus in your city or town? It's not technically in *this* city, but then again the Philippines is relatively super small that Metro Manila, where most of the big universities are, is just a stone's throw away. The university I attended is only 30 minutes away on a good day and I drove to and from home everyday.

Who last called you on the phone? Did you pick up? If so, how long did you talk? Somebody related to work, and no I did not pick up. Besides the fact that I had been driving, I don't appreciate people calling because 99.9% of the time it'd work out the same way if they just texted.

What grocery store/supermarket do you shop at most frequently? S&R.

Do you know how to play the card game Hearts? I don't think I've even ever heard of it.

Are you a more of a light or heavy sleeper? Very heavy.

Have you ever done freelance work? What did you do? I have not.

Name four things you can see right now. My electric fan, pillows, handbag, and TV.

Do you charge your phone every day? Well...yes. I usually do by the end of the day since it's also the time when it typically becomes close to dying.

Is your washing machine currently running? No.

How's your energy levels today? Pretty low.

Have you ever torn a muscle? Nopes.

Do you have any cereal in your house at the moment? As far as I know, no.

When was the last time you went out to eat? Where did you go and who with? Monday, I was with Celeste at S Maison and she picked a Chinese restaurant for our dinner.

Is the street you live on short, long, or somewhere in the middle? Short.

Should you be in bed right now? Not necessarily but this is also the last survey I'll be taking for the day. It's currently 11:30 PM so it's still pretty early, but I do already want to snuggle in bed and start watching IG Reels (my usual pre-sleep routine) but I don't think I'll start trying to fall asleep until 1 or 2.

[prismaticpichu]

Second prompt on the bullet list was “laundry”. Hallelujah!!

(Y’all are prolly very used to my 1st grade sense of humor by now. I’m sorry I never mentally matured past 7yos!)

✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧

Sephiroth went stone-stiff upon seeing the yellow streaks rivering down his coat, at least a dozen or more stringy ribbons forming viscous globules that dribbled rather rhythmically at the man's feet.

And Zack just stood across from him, clutching a broken can of spray cheese with the same expression as one may bear when having shattered their mother's most expensive vase—something he's also done. Twice.

"Oh man! Oh man! Oh man! I'm sorry, Seph!" Zack set down the squirtable dairy-turned bomb, rushing to his friend with a paper towel in hand and desperately trying to wipe the cheese off.

Sephiroth closed his eyes, sighing deeply. He wasn't even trying to suppress his anger; he was simply too tired to muster the energy for any other reaction. "It's... fine," he said feebly, then lifted his sleeve to see tendrils of buttery gold stretch with the motion, inadvertently creating the illusion that his limbs were strung together like a harp—or some kind of broken puppet.

...Ew.

Zack pulled away, having successfully dabbed off at least one thread of cheese. His sheepishness grew tenfold. "Aw man—y'know what? Let's just get this thing off ya. I'll go down and wash it myself!"

However, as he reached for his friend's coat, Sephiroth jerked away.

"I have nothing else to wear," he pointed out, and although his body didn't regulate temperature like the average person, it was still the heart of winter.

"I'll give you something to wear!"

The look of horror that crawled onto Sephiroth's face was priceless, at least to the boy whose expression suddenly blossomed with amusement—and inspiration. Evil, evil inspiration.

"C'mon, it won't take long!" Zack wheedled. Granted, he didn't necessarily want to go down to the beehive of swarming cadets and staff breaking into wrestling matches over the fastest machines, but Seph's coat had posed as a Kindergartener's splatter art project and it was kind of all his fault.

Sephiroth still looked hesitant. "Mmm..." His gaze traveled to his sleeve, then to Zack, then to his collar, then to Zack, and then to the spray can. He knew his best friend: Zack would need to find a way to assuage his guilt somehow. It would eat him alive until he did.

Besides... he was just too tired to protest.

~

And that’s how Sephiroth found himself curled up on Zack's sofa, his eyes shut as to try and neglect the fact that fluffy, turquoise, Moogle-emblazoned pajamas were grassing his entire body.

Though he had to admit, they certainly felt lighter than the demanding, almost gluey weight of his coat... They were warm, cocooning him head to toe, simply existing for the sake of his safety and comfort...

"Alright, I'll be back in a bit!" Zack announced through the doorway, an iconic puddle of tar draped over his shoulder. Sephiroth hardly registered when he was gone.

 ~

Zack returned an hour later with a clean, cheeseless, coconut-smelling trench coat... and almost immediately melted at the sight that awaited him.

Seph was sound asleep on the couch, hugging a pillow close, his mercury tresses spilling off the edge while the shorter bangs splayed carelessly over his eyes and nose, quivering with his tranquil breaths. He was snug as a pug in a mug.

Zack deposited his coat on the counter where he knew Seph would see it, tip-toeing past his friend and heading off to bed himself.

But not before stopping at the arm of the couch, leaning down, and bringing his arms around Seph in a delicate hug.

"Good night, bud."

I oughta take a break from Zack & Seph for a couple hours before I blow out like a laptop with soda spilled all over it

[orphicchronicles]

social media is fake so get to know me via online quizzes 🤭

enneagram: 7w8

the enthusiast - “the busy, variety-seeking type, spontaneous, versatile, acquisitive, and scattered.” as a seven, one of my basic fears in life is the feeling of being stuck, trapped, or “negative” emotions. this has created a deep wanderlust within my soul and i am constantly homesick for places i haven’t been before. i tend to swing between 6 and 8 for my wings, but ive noticed that internally i very much so align with my 6 wing, while externally i tend to present my 8 wing.

myers-briggs: infj-t

infj’s are named as “the advocate” and are one of the most rare personality types. infj’s reflect introverted, intuitive, feeling, and judging traits. as an infj, i like to say that i experience the world in an extremely intense way. according to the 16 personality website (link below!) “infj’s tend to carry around a sense of feeling different from most people.” i’ve forever been the type of person to float around to various different friend groups, genres, hobbies, etc. while that has been difficult for me to deal with the turbulence of sudden change, it also has giving me the opportunity to meet amazing people all over the world and cultivate experiences that are so incredibly rich.

moral alignment: chaotic good

folks who are part of the “chaotic good” moral alignment tend to “value personal freedom and the greater good, even if it means breaking the law or disobeying authority figures.” we tend to be motivated by a desire to do what is right, but sometimes may not always follow the expected rules of society. as i’ve crossed the threshold into adulthood (barf), my eyes have really been opened to the horrors of the world we live in. i will always, always, ALWAYS be on the side of humanity & equality. periot.

star shit: cancer, cancer ☀️, leo 🌚

i am the textbook definition of a cancer. that’s all you should need to know. 🤟🏼

what tarot card am i: the empress

according to wikihow, this is what the empress card means: “you exude, divine feminine energy. as the empress, you embody grace, abundance, nurturance, and creativity. you’re an artist by heart and a giver by nature.” the description goes on to say, “you are in touch with the mystical world around you and you seem to know things others don’t, and feel things others can’t.” due to the flavor of christianity i grew up in, i was always warned away from anything spiritual - since im a hedonistic, deconstructed, hard-hearted sinner and left the church, ive started learning about other types of spirituality!!!

my taylor swift era: evermore 🍂

“she would’ve made such a lovely bride, what a shame she’s fucked in the head, they said” yeaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh that one tracks 😅

what is my aesthetic? indie

“your style is unique and artsy with a hint of nonconformity. you love indie music, films, and a free-spirited lifestyle.” TLDR: my aesthetic is essentially the quirky middle school art teacher.

thnx 4 letting me share ✌🏼

references/links to quizzes/personality tests:

[saynaroy96]

Budget vs Premium: Is the Extra Cost of a High-End Washing Machine Justified? 

When it comes to home appliances, there's always a dilemma between budget-friendly options and premium ones. Recently, I found myself pondering this very question while shopping for a new washing machine on Amazon India. It's no secret that a high-quality washing machine can make laundry chores a breeze, but is the extra cost of a high-end model truly worth it? Let's dive into my thoughts on this budget vs. premium conundrum. 

Budget-Friendly Appeal 

The first thing that draws most of us towards budget-friendly washing machines is, well, the budget. These machines often come with a price tag that won't give your wallet a heart attack. They may lack some fancy features, but they get the job done, and in my experience, they are surprisingly reliable. Budget machines are often a fantastic choice for those on a tight budget or for individuals who have simple laundry needs. 

Performance Matters 

Now, let's talk about premium washing machines. They come with a slew of advanced features, from multiple washing cycles to energy efficiency and smart technology. I was initially hesitant about shelling out extra cash for these bells and whistles, but after making the switch, I can't deny the difference in performance. My clothes come out cleaner, fresher, and in better condition, thanks to the gentle care premium machines provide. If you have a busy household or delicate fabrics to wash, investing in a premium washer might be the right choice. 

Long-Term Savings 

One argument in favor of premium machines is their potential for long-term savings. They often come with energy-saving features that can significantly reduce your utility bills over time. Moreover, their durability and advanced engineering may lead to fewer repairs and a longer lifespan. So, while the initial cost might be high, you could end up saving money in the long run. 

Making the Choice 

Ultimately, the choice between a budget and premium washing machine depends on your specific needs and budget constraints. If you're looking for a basic, cost-effective option, a budget machine can serve you well. However, if you prioritize performance, advanced features, and long-term savings, a premium model might be the way to go. 

I must mention that shopping on Amazon India made this decision easier for me. Their extensive range of washing machines, customer reviews, and competitive prices helped me make an informed choice. Plus, their reliable delivery and customer service have always left me satisfied with my purchases. 

In conclusion, the debate between budget and premium washing machines will continue, but the answer ultimately lies in your individual circumstances and preferences. Weigh the pros and cons, consider your laundry needs, and remember that the extra cost of a high-end washing machine can be justified if it aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals. 

[different-worlds-series]

Chapter Eight: Listen To My Voice

'And I knew it. That's the worst part: I knew it'

-Unknown

Emma woke to her head on fire. Her alarm echoed in her ears like police sirens. She quickly moved her hand around to find her phone. She lifted her head from her pillow, her eyes searching for the voice of Zoe Wees alerting her with every lyric. Finally, she turned off her alarm as her curls suffocated her face.

She lay in bed for a few minutes, debating whether to get up for school or wait until Sienna dragged her out of bed. Her head was pounding like two sledgehammers fighting with her skull. She could hear a tap running, shavers buzzing and a kettle boiling. She tried to focus on the loudest one, hoping to ignore the other sounds.

It wasn't working.

She tried to think of something else for a moment, allowing her body to hone in on a sound to focus on naturally.

Thump...Thump...Thump

Emma tried to listen to it further, focusing on whoever's heartbeat she found

Thump...Thump...Thump

Slowly the sound of the running tap became backroom noise as she took a deep breath in.

"I can't do it. I'm sorry"

Emma gasped at Jordan's voice, hearing her heart racing. She could feel the heat burn on her cheeks. 'What the fuck Emma!? Why would you do that...Gods! Your a total creep' She scolded herself before pushing away her blanket.

She swung her legs to the edge of her bed, her covered feet hovering over the cold wooden floors. She took a moment to clear her head and just started the day fresh. Getting up, Emma grabbed a pair of sweatpants and searched her drawers for a hoodie to wear. She huffed as most of her warm ones were still in the washing machine. Yet her brain reminded her of the black one that was hanging on the back of her door.

It was the one that Jordan gave her the night she came to Smallville. She hadn't worn it much but something told her to put it on. She felt the fabric against her pale skin, her body slowly but surely warming up as the leaves turned brown outside her window. She hated the cold sometimes, still bewildered at how cold she was in Kansas compared to everyone else.

She grabbed her phone out of the charger, her eyes finding the folded piece of paper in her phone case. She sighed before walking out of her room.

She smiled at Sienna as her aunt closed a brown lunch bag for her. "How's the super-hearing?" She asked, fixing her shoe at the same time. "Okay, just a raging headache" Emma shrugged, having no energy at this hour of the morning. Sienna nodded, before taking out another test tube bottle.

Emma groaned at the sight. "Why can't I give this to Jordan? He's really struggling and I'm completely fine" She asked Sienna, still frustrated with this situation. "You are an Alor, which means on Krypton you would have had enhanced hearing anyways. If I gave this to Jordan it may make things worse" Sienna explained to Emma simply. Emma only huffed and rolled her eyes muttering under her breath.

She felt awful that she had a scapegoat for her superhearing and Jordan was suffering. She hated the feeling in her gut that stabbed her with guilt and sympathy. Sienna brought the girl close, knowing that physical touch, especially hugs, helped her calm down.

Yet, Emma's body froze almost instantly, not used to hugging the woman who was her biological aunt. She usually loves hugs from anyone really but it was different with Sienna. Maybe it was Emma's irrational fear of her own mother or the feeling of betrayal. But Emma still hadn't felt comfortable in touch with Sienna yet.

"He's gonna be fine Emma, this isn't your fault" Sienna told her. Emma however silently disagreed. It was her fault, kinda. She decided to be stupid and not tell anyone about how Jordan was supposed to break Jon's wrist and then ended up getting the worse injury from trying to stop him. The only good thing that came from it was that Emma had dislocated Cutter's jaw which made her happy.

<><><>

As Sienna pulled up to the school, Clark and Jon had also done the same. Emma was quick to leave the car and march over to the red truck. Jon tried to catch the girl for a conversation, quickly thrown off guard by her lack of plaster Paris-wrapped arm. Emma jumped into the free seat next to a stunned Clark and slammed the door.

"Jordan okay?" Emma asked him.

Clark nodded passively at her presence, hoping the blue-haired girl didn't explode in his truck. "He's okay...just a little rattled" Clark answered carefully under Emma's death glare. He swore she could rival Lois if she tried. "I'm fifteen, not five Clark... holding back the truth is a major factor in my trust issues" Emma huffed at him angrily.

"Good morning to you too Emma" Clark dropped his shoulders.

Emma glared at him. "I've survived being semi-raised by a drug addict who turned out to be an advanced Kryptonian from a family I didn't even know existed until a couple of weeks ago...Sorry I'm not in the mood for an idle chat" Emma rolled her eyes at him.

"He's fine... Jordan just needs to adjust and learn to focus on his hearing. It takes time" Clark told her before taking a double take at her. "How are you holding up so well?" He asked her. "Some serum thing that Sienna's been giving me. Alors are supposed to have the advanced hearing. Keeps the edge off and before you ask, she said that Jordan couldn't have it because it was only made for Alors and could make things worse for him" Emma deadpanned before going to leave the truck.

She hesitated for a moment before turning back to Clark. "J– Just tell Jordan I'm sorry" She bit her lip before leaving the truck.

<><><>

Jon ran up to Emma, a small smile on his face. "Hey, where have you been all day fangirl?" He asked stopping at her locker. Emma gave him a half-assed smile, "Oh you know brooding in a dark corner trying to ignore baby cries" She shrugged, gently closing her locker. "How's the arm?" She asked steering the conversation onto him as quickly as possible.

"Annoying and totally frustrating to the point I might just chop it off" Jon huffed before Emma began to walk off. "Emma, you okay? You seem sad" Jon noticed, walking up beside her. Emma shrugged, not really sure how to answer him. She was pissed that she was getting off easy while Jordan was at the farm in pain. "It's not fair" She sighed angrily, clutching her binder tightly. "What's not fair?" Jon asked, seeing her knuckles turn white. "I'm here, not in pain and controlling it while Jordan's in pain. Why should I get the easy way out with this stupid serum? I'm not a good person, I deserve the pain, all of the pain that comes with this not Jordan" Emma spat out, her gut turning at the thoughts of Jordan in pain.

Jon wrapped an arm around her, pulling her into a side hug. "Hey, Jordan's gonna get through this, okay? Look, it's not your fault that we're not... normal and it's definitely not your fault that you got an easy way out. You need to stop blaming yourself Emma, it won't do you anything" Jon tried to reassure his only friend, only gaining a mumble in response. He sounded like her Jonathan, her Jon Jon. It scared her if she got too close to him. Mal would do anything to get rid of it, and unlike most villains, her mother would go with the harshest way possible.

Emma moved away from him, not saying a word. "I really need to see Sienna, gotta take my 'meds' see ya around Jonathan" Emma said with a tight smile as they approached Sienna's office. Jon was confused by her sudden excuse. Did he say the wrong thing? "Emma, you okay you–" Before Jon could finish the school bell rang loudly.

Instantly Emma had clutched her hands over her ears, feeling her head hurt like a sledgehammer to a brick wall. "Emma! Shit!" Jon panicked, grabbing her by her shoulders and guiding her into Sienna's office.

He placed Emma near a wall as she slid down in pain. Sienna was fast to intervene, grabbing the serum and running to her niece. She helped Emma take it, the effects coming slowly with the bell no longer ringing in their ears. Jon placed a hand on her shoulder, hoping it might soothe her. Emma slapped his hand away. "Stop! Your not him. You'll never replace my Jonathan" She spat, tears spilling from her eyes. Both Sienna and Jon were taken aback.

<><><>

Sienna placed a steaming cup of tea on her desk. Emma sat with her knees to her chest, still recovering from her hearing. She felt so bad for what she had said to Jon. It just came out. One minute she was in agony the next she was telling her only friend that he can't replace her best friend from a world her mother destroyed supposedly. "It's normal to lash out Emma, you came here without any choice. You're still adjusting and it's okay" Sienna tried to reassure her young niece. Emma only broke down more.

"I'm a horrible person" Emma sobbed into her knees. "He's my best friend, the only one who kinda gets what I'm going through. I just compared him to Jon Jon, my dead cousin" Emma shook her head in guilt. "We don't know if your world is gone" Sienna reminded her only to earn a red-eyed glare from Emma. "Just talk to him and apologise, if he truly is your best friend then he'll understand" Sienna advised her as the bell rang again for her lunch period. Thankfully it didn't affect Emma as much as the last three.

Emma ran to the football field, knowing Jon would be on the bench looking over the plays. She spotted him on the bleachers, his cast sticking out like a sore thumb. "Jon?" She asked, tapping his shoulder carefully. The blonde boy turned his head to face her. "Can we talk?" Emma asked him. He nodded before running over to Coach Gaines. After a few words were exchanged, Jon jogged back over to her. "Wanna get a bite?" He asked her. A small smile on her face formed as she nodded.

The pair walked in an awkward silence back into the school. Emma was tearing the skin near her fingernails, the blood staining them. Jon tapped his uninjured hand against his cast before clearing his throat. "I thought that serum shit was supposed to stop the hearing from hurting?" He asked, trying to start the conversation.

Emma shrugged, "No, it's supposed to help my brain adjust. Like a computer programme. Once you have the software, everything else is simple. The serum is the programme, its software is changing my brain's hearing process so that when it's all gone, it will be easier to focus on one sound than all of them at once" Emma explained to him with the same answer Sienna gave her. He nodded, the metaphor making sense somehow.

"I'm sorry" Emma added, stopping her walk and turning to face Jon. "I... You remind me so much of Jon Jon and I miss him so much. And when I found out about Mal being here... I don't want anyone to die because of me. Not Jordan, you, Lois hell even Clark and Sienna" Emma's words flew out, the fear clear in her tone and eyes. Jon only let a small smile out. "Emma, it's okay. I figured that finding out the... secret was gonna be hard for you. Especially when all this was fake for you back home" Jon swung his arm around her shoulder, causing her to walk with him.

Emma quickly wrapped her arms around his middle, hugging him tightly. "I forgive... you really love hugs, huh?" Jon let out a laugh. Emma pulled back, "I didn't get many as a kid. I promised myself I'd never let Antony or Sophie ever feel like I did. So I always gave them a hug and a kiss on the cheek every day as many times as I could get away with" Emma explained to him. "Isn't your brother like thirteen?" Jon asked her. "Yep, so I threatened to limit his screen time with his Xbox" Emma smirked as they entered the cafeteria.

"You're my best friend Jon, seriously I wouldn't be here if it weren't for you" Emma told him, being serious in her words. Jon faked a gasp, "Me? Your best friend? I feel like I won an award" He mockingly placed a hand over his heart. "Watch it Kent, I'll break the other arm if you're not careful" Emma shoved him gently, the pair erupting into a fit of laughs.

With a bag of chocolate bites in her hand, Emma and Jon left the overcrowded room to the less overcrowded halls. "As your best friend I have a question" Jon announced. "Shoot" Emma managed to reply with her mouth filled with chocolate. "What the fuck is going on with you Jordan?" Emma began choking at his question. "What!?" She choked out, her throat now a bit sore from her chocolate choke. "Cause Ross and Rachel's relationship makes more sense than whatever is going on between you two" He exaggerated with his hands and cast flying everywhere. "We kissed" Emma mumbled.

"What! When! Why wasn't I told this!" Jon exclaimed before Emma hit his side. "Keep it down, I don't think my mother heard you" Emma hissed at him. "Sorry" He whispered, ducking his head down. "So why aren't you two...together?" Jon asked her as he failed to wiggle his eyebrows. "What part of my mother kills anyone I get close to didn't register in your brain?" Emma asked him back. "Right, psycho-mom. Why can't you just take the risk? I know there's usually murder but, isn't dating the person you actually want to be with, be worth it" Jon shrugged.

Emma stayed quiet which frightened Jon to a certain extent. "Emma? You good?" He asked, placing his hand on her shoulder. She didn't react, the sounds of panting overtaking her ears for a moment. Jon watched as she opened her phone, speeding away from his side. She opened her contacts finding Jordan very quickly.

With the phone to her ear, the dial tones lasted longer than she hoped. With eh pickup sound she immediately heard the panting more vividly than before. "Listen to me... just breathe and listen to my voice. You're okay Jord, just listen to the sound of my voice and ignore everything else. Listen to the way I pronounce my t's. Tree. Three. Trees. Thirteen." Emma instructed him gently, her heart pounding.

Back at the Kent farm, a hole was made in Jordan's wall. His fist was covered in dust as he held his phone to his ear. Emma's gentle voice echoed softly in his ears as a steady enough heartbeat overlaid. It was Emma's heartbeat.

"Jord. Please talk to me" Emma whispered, making Jordan realise how long he had been listening to her. "I'm here. I'm okay" He answered, listening to Emma's sigh of relief. He felt his knuckles tighten with the thoughts of what he heard previous to her call. "I'll be over for my free class, okay" Emma sounded a bit on edge at the end, like she wanted to say more than that.

Emma wanted to say 'love you' as she did with everyone she truly cared about. Yet the lingering thoughts of what it might cause stopped her. "K, see you soon" Jordan answered back before hanging up the call.

<><><>

The only thing about high school that Emma liked was her free class. She was allowed to leave the school early at the end of the day because she had a free period as the others called it. She strolled down the empty road to the Kent farm with music in her ears.

She walked into the house, closing her door gently in case she agitated Jordan's hearing. She quickly scanned the living room, kitchen and dining room for him before heading upstairs. His bedroom door was open slightly. Emma tapped the wood softly before placing a foot in the room. She eventually saw Jordan sitting with his head in his hands, eyes shut tightly. She noticed the hole in his wall which made her gulp.

"Jords? You good?" Emma whispered, taking a step towards him. Jordan looked up at her, his eyes were red from tears. He nodded slowly as he took his hands away from his head. Emma was quick to lunge towards him, hugging at tight as possible. "This is all my fault Jord. I'm so sorry" Emma cracked, her voice almost a whisper.

"What? Emma, what are talking about?" Jordan asked, holding her gently in front of him. "I knew that Cutter was gonna piss you off. That you would break Jon's arm. I.. Thought if I stopped it then only I would get hurt" Emma had to stop herself, tears began streaming down her eyes. "I'm so sorry Jordan... I'm sorry" Emma sobbed harder, backing away from Jordan subconsciously.

It was silent apart from Emma's violent sobs. Jordan placed his hand on her cheek, using his free one to wipe her tears. "I knew Em" Jordan told her, making Emma look at him like he had three heads. "Wha– How?" Emma stuttered out, confused as to how he knew. "You stutter when you lie or hold something back. When Dad asked f if there was anything else to look out for you stuttered" Jordan explained to her. Emma looked at him with wide eyes. She didn't even know that about herself. "You noticed that? I didn't even know I did that" Emma gasped.

Jordan could only shrug at her. "I forgive you. I know you were only trying to help in your own way" Jordan hoped to calm her. "You knew... and you're not mad at me, at all" Emma broke down the information, still finding it hard to grasp. "Why would I be mad?" Jordan asked her. He was confused, everyone made mistakes. He broke Jon's arm, sure his twin was pissed but in the end, they were still brothers and they loved each other. He remembers when Jon would leave him alone at lunch, the bullies would attack him until he resorted to eating in the bathroom alone. And yet, his brother would always stick up for him.

"You aren't angry at me for hiding this? Anyone else would be furious with me! Why can't you be angry at me Jordan!" Emma snapped, jumping from the bed away from Jordan. "I don't know! I just can't be mad at you" Jordan told her, confused as to why Emma wanted him to be angry with her.

Emma clenched her fists, her head pounding as she heard multiple noises at once. She was losing control of her hearing. The feeling of blood dripping down the sides of her head was noticeable to Jordan. "Em, you're bleeding" Jordan gasped, coming closer to her. Emma gritted her teeth. "Why can't you be angry with me!" She forced out.

"Because I'm falling in love with you!"

There was silence. Emma looked up at Jordan with her eyes glowing blue. She took a step back. She didn't hear multiple noises, only the steady beats of two hearts. Jordan's and her own. "What" She whispered cautiously, looking at him like a deer in headlights. "I can't be angry with you because I'm falling in love with you Emma. You can't be angry at someone you love" Jordan repeated, his own grey eyes looking at her with adoration and care. Emma gulped slightly, walking backwards to the door. "Don't do that to yourself" Emma told him before taking the opportunity to run down the stairs and out of the Kent farm.

Leaving Jordan to scold himself for admitting his feelings for a girl who wanted him safe.

<><><>

Sienna Clarks walked past a rusted gate door, feeling nostalgic about the path she took. Many trees towered over her as she took in the scenery of nature. She loved Earth's natural plant life compared to the artificial feel of Krypton.

She followed the youngest plant life, trees that were less than half the size of the others. This was where she and Mal landed forty years ago. Just near a small river that flowed to the reservoir. She could still remember feeling the sun on her skin for the first time.

"This is probably the only thing I like on this dreadful planet"

Sienna turned around to see her little sister standing on the bridge. She walked up to her, hands in her pockets. "You're trespassing Mal" Sienna warned her lazily. Mal rolled her eyes at the darker-haired sister. "They wouldn't remember it anyways" She scoffed at her. "Your powers don't work on me little one" Sienna mused before taking out the dark purple dagger from her pocket. A green glow emitted from the inside, making Mal smirk.

"You kept it" She stated plainly, looking out onto the river. "It shouldn't have affected her. Green Kryptonite is useless to our bloodline" Sienna told he sister, concerned about what she did to her own daughter. "Do you know what happens when a Black Mercy dies? It shrivel up like a dying plant" Mal began walking around her sister. "Yet no one ever tries to recreate the power they hold. You see Shara, the petals of a Black Mercy still work even when it's died" Mal chuckled seeing her sister piece together a conclusion in her mind.

"You soaked Kryptonite in the poison of a Black Mercy? There's one on this planet?" Sienna questions like she didn't know the answer. Mal shrugged at her sister. "Black Mercy's aren't wild creatures, they need targets. To know of a target, they need blood" Mall continued her explanation of the species. Sienna's eyes widened in fear.

"Mal! What have you done!" She demanded, her eyes glowing red. Mal simply laughed off her sister's protectiveness. "I think you know sister, only you won't be there to save young Elrisia" Mal's eyes glowed dark green as the ground began to shake underneath them.

<><><>

The sun had set when Emma ran back to Sienna's, her breaths laboured as she opened the front door. Her face was red, hot tears streaming down her face. She couldn't think straight, the only thought in her mind is what her mother would do to Jordan. She didn't notice her new home being practically lifeless as she walked into the kitchen.

She felt her stomach drop, the atmosphere in the house freaking her out. She passed a mirror, almost missing what she saw. Her eyes were glowing blue, and a dot under the

corner of each eye began to do the same. She felt burning on the back of her hands. On her right, the house of El crest glowed brightly in blue. Her surrounding veins also glowed around the crest. Yet on her left, a different crest illuminated.

But before she could try to figure out what crest it was, her surroundings changed completely. In a blink, she was in a warehouse-looking area with the sound of banging echoing in her ears. She turned to see a man next to an RV.

John Henry Irons.

Snapping out of the weird vision Emma scrambled for her phone. She needed to call Lois and Clark. "Fuck!" Emma screamed, realising she left her phone in her bag, which she left in Jordan's room. Emma heard a car pull up and ran to the door, believing it was Sienna. By the time she scrambled her way to the main hall, the door was closed.

Emma felt her entire body freeze. Her eyes darkened as a dim red glow emerged. "Put the lasers away, daughter. There is much we need to discuss" Mal tutted, walking towards Emma. Mal raised her hand to Emma's cheek. She gently caressed it, making Emma want to vomit her heart and soul up. Then with a swing, Mal lifted her hand and smacked Emma's cheek. She fell to the floor from the force, coughing violently.

"That...was for every single mistake you have made since you got here" Mal smiled before walking over Emma's shaking body. Emma knew that even if she tried, there was no way that she was gonna make it to the front door. "Come on! Elrisia we don't have all day" Mal called back like it was nothing. Emma picked herself up from the floor and carefully walked into the kitchen.

She watched as her mother sat by the countertop, leg over her knee with her arms crossed. "What do you want?" Emma asked her, trying to keep herself calm. "If you think I'm going to reveal my ultimate plan then you might as well tell the world Clark's secret" Mal smirked at her daughter. Emma glared at her, the anger bubbling up inside of her. "What have you done with Sienna?" Emma asked, noticing a pen and paper near her. "She's...a little busy at the moment" Mal shrugged, knowing exactly what she was doing.

Emma clenched her fist, taking a deep breath. "What do you want mother? You obviously didn't come here to play meaningless mind games" Emma asked her once more. Mal scoffed at her daughter. "Mind games are never meaningless Elrisia" She waved off. "My name is Emma" Emma gritted her teeth, feeling the sting of her cheek more intensely. "Emma, Elrisia, same thing. Anyways I've come to let you know a small fact" Mal mused, getting up from the stool she sat on.

She walked closer to her daughter, her eyes glowing green. She placed her hands on either shoulder and held onto Emma as tightly as humanly possible. She didn't like the sound of bones breaking simultaneously.

"You will lose. You will never see your little 'family' again. No one can stop what's coming. And something you and I both know..." Mal spat dangerously before leaning closer to Emma's ear. "You will never have Jordan Kent".

Mal pushed Emma back as a screeching sound echoed in the house. "I don't need to tell you the purpose of a Black Mercy" Mal smirked before speeding out of the small home to leave Emma to fend for herself.

<><><>

Clark and Lois waited patiently for the twins' next question about the multiverse. They had learned the basics from Emma when she first arrived but she didn't explain the whole concept of Crisis or timelines thankfully. As Jordan and Jon tried to think up a new question, the sound of a large crash shook the house.

Clark was the first to reach the source, with Lois and the boys following in from behind. On the floor of his home, Sienna failed to hold herself up. Her clothes were dishevelled and her hair a mess. A simple knife was lodged in her side, the veins surrounding it glowing a yellow colour against the dark red blood.

"Sienna!" Clark gasped, quick to help the older Kryptonian up. "You... need to find her" Sienna gasped as Clark took out the knife. "Find who?" Lois asked her. "My sister... she's after Emma" Sienna managed before passing out, falling limp in Clark's arms.

Clark used his powers to place Sienna on the couch before flying off to her house. He broke the door coming in, finding the house in ruins. Smashed vases on the floor, broken picture frames and shards of glass were his path. He walked into the lichen, the smell of blood hitting his senses. He noticed Emma's bright red Flash-inspired converse on the floor. He ran over to see Emma, back landed on the hardwood floor a notepad and pen near her unconscious body. A weird plant-like creature sat upon her chest, pink tentacles wrapping around her chest.

Mal was long gone. He was too late.

[kendrixtermina]

(the dangerous myth of tabula rasa)

‘Give me the child until he is seven’ said Fuckwad the Behaviorist

and I will show you the man.

Except even the master dog trainer braggeth,

that he could extinguish behaviors of growling if he so please

yet he never would, for the kinetic energy will always somehow

come out sideways

unnatural repression ties a spiral-spring with nowhere left to go

and of course the human animal is even artsier in it’s vice grip turn repression

all these novel kinds of inhibitory neuron

all these twists to bend over backwards

in my brief stint with yoga,

I managed the damn wheel exactly once.

I’m not so flexible it seems,

not robust enough a stock for your tumor-dreams to be graft upon it,

for your parasitoid-wasp-love to eat me from within

its not me the cricket you love,

but your larva

but what you would carve from me, the marble block

tell me not there weren’t old farmers

assuring you that such soil would be most unsuitable for growing coffee,

drown the cactus in water meant for gladiolus

the rot that eats me,

the insect claw slitting its way out from me

of your precious,

little

swords.

Laced in fertile agraic blood for the seed of god the lord

as a fish,

branded in scarlet for my inability to climb a tree

I want to forcibly tattoo these words upon the sperm donor’s buttocks

with the torture machine from that one Kafka short story

with the same gleeful delusion of justice that let you strike me with clean hands,

me, the thistles and cornflowers that you would rip from your field,

my heart, the brambles that choked out the words of god,

my mind filled with birds of satan that ate up your filthy words

though I’d only give the contraption about a 30% chance

of producing transcendence or enlightenment this time.

Impossible it is not,

but I have learned not to hold my breath

when reasonable doubt is served,

you’re allowed to wash your hands.

Shake that dirt from your sandals fucker,

messiah that you think you were

keep worshipping your own inflated superego until you choke on your own gurgling secretions

may the sandgrains pierce your feet

may all your golden calves be spat upon

Your blood won’t save me,

but neither did mine save you,

and yet you drank it

fetters of kronos!

your blood won’t save me,

but I crave it all the same.

[bennyyrabbit]

Ok, because I don't care and also care too much to type all of this out, I'm just gonna say it in words, I'm using speech to text right now to make this post, because I just don't have the time or energy to type all of this out, let me tell you what is so weird about grimaces birthday playlist by McDonald's.

The first song that I thought was weird, I scrolled to like the 29 song before I thought something was like, extra weird right? And then I saw 5, oh, 5 by Arctic Monkeys. What absolutely entire wut and then was it ok everything gets a little weird from here boys a liar part 2 don't stop me now oh ok Kill Bill livin LA Vida loca dance the night from Barbie I'm assuming the actual over the new Barbie movie as it was birthday by the Beatles blue haired boy Madeline may who is that it's been so long the living tombstone you know the fucking 5 nights at Freddy's song what the fuck and then we go we get to a song and we get to a song title in a language that I don't speak which I believe is Spanish hey yeah hey yeah by outcast trees McCafferty funky town I don't know what that song is. Party rock Anthem it's a party song it's a birthday sure.

Ah next up for weird songs we have the Phoenix by fall out boy why this star man David Bowie ok sure I don't know why but sure baby by Justin Bieber and Lewis in ludicrous why and then to the next song that I thought was a little weird that I know is very soiree by Melanie Martinez no blood by whatever penguins which I think it just sounds weird what are those who is that what song is this OE MG buy new jeans pour some sugar on me Def Leppard what absolutely entirely what just dance party like it to birthday and then revived by dear of a cat from records of the s m p if you know what revived by this person you know that this is the song about Revived!Bur. They put the Revived!Bur song on this fucking playlist.

Next up for weird additions is a touch tone telephone by lemon demon what touch tone telephone this is what you went for are you serious on the floor which I guess makes sense it's a party song say ah say ah fucking Trey Songz and Fabolous I don't know how to announce that but yeah that's apparently a thing do to do do I didn't say that right I know that I didn't by black pink miracles by Kiera shared and pastor Mike junior because he's a junior I guess I don't know what that is birthday Selena Gomez hey its a birthday song understandable then you've got be quiet and drive (far away).

Also, oddly enough, we have washing machine heart, paranoid by Kanye West and Mr. Hudson, what the fuck I mean, sure, but why give me chocolate from baby metal, I don't even know if I want to know what that is step on me by the cardigans, what all eyes on me by or 3 oh, what the fuck is that welcome to the black parade, my chemical romance, and then what has epically assaulted me more so than anything else is the addition of Alexander Hamilton, the song from the musical Hamilton, written by Lin Manuel Miranda.

5/4, by the Gorillaz, 5 slash 4 by the Gorillaz. What the fuck is this for who is this for who cares about the gorillas who cares not me.

I'm eating my computer by Eliot Lee what the fuck is that American Pie but Don McLean I don't even know what that is be alright by Ariana Grande in the club 50 cent too good at goodbyes Sam Smith dumb Bine effects Neff x what the fuck is this for who is this party for carrousel Mr bungle who the fuck is Mr bungle call me maybe birthday suit Cosmo Sheldrake if you've heard that song that doesn't belong here thumbs by Sabrina Carpenter other I was also doesn't feel like it belongs here we're just gonna keep scrolling to ghost it's a ghost song it's phantom of the Opera ghost is there a reason apparently not Jimin a song by Jimin you know that guy you yknow that guy from BTS.

Yeah brought by Green day a boy named Sue by Johnny Cash tainted love by Marilyn Manson kid at heart by sing I won't say cause I don't know if I can pronounce it ah 1035 by tiesto and take McRae why the fuck the thirtieth by Billy Irish romance is boring bye something that I won't say for fear of mispronouncing it Cherry bomb the runaways love you like a love song Selena Gomez cake by Remi wolf war of hearts by Ruelle I don't even know if I said that right ocean man by ween be yourself my boy story gangstas paradise you know that song for whom the bell tolls remastered by Metallica song confetti by little mix talk to you by Ricky Mon kids by Melina and late Verlaine, why the fuck an open letter to whoever is listening by beautiful eulogy what the fuck.

So I'm red moon by will wood and the tapeworms, who the fuck knows this song, and for why obsessed by Mariah Carey, fill me up, buttercup, by the foundations, let's get it started by a Luna. I don't know who that even is sure for me by a Aurora can't stop singing from teen beach movie. From teen beach movie the Disney Channel original movie movie.

Goofy goober rock by sponge Bob square pants from the SpongeBob screen it's it's shut up and dance walk the moon boom boom boom boom by Vengaboys kiss me by sixpence none the richer die don't know who the fuck that even is it's normal by John Cougar trust me whatever it is I doubt that it's normal another song in a language that I can't speak just buy fucking Radiohead I only have eyes for you the flamingos from their album flamingo serenade let it go from frozen hero by Monsta X lavender by Penelope Scott cool kids by Eco Smith what thunder imagine dragons believe look re I might not even said that correctly I don't know how much this is picking up FIVE FINGAZ TO THE FACE FROM VICTORIOUS.

Is everyone understanding why I'm so baffled by this existence thanks like it's her birthday by good Charlotte baby one more time by Britney Spears paranoid the 2012 remaster by Black Sabbath. 9 to 5 by Dolly Parton y Macarena by Los Del Rio highway to hell by AC DC sunroof, you know that catch YB song Waffle House by the Jonas Brothers, the Jonas Brothers have a song called Waffle House fucking ok, then Prince Ali, the Will Smith version, you know the one from the live action, and I guess lush life by czar Larson, take you dancing by Jason Rullo cheese by 5 sings of summer Gangnam Style bye p s y.

I hope everybody understands that I don't want to be here sparkly abs by see g 5 and captain sparkles low by Florida and T-Pain Cupid, the twin version by 5050, except it's, the sped up version peaches from that movie, you know the movie we all know

Hmm, let's see here, YMCA lip gloss by Lil Mama, don't stop the music by Rihanna, the purple people eater by chef Bouley, I feel like whoever put that on really should have thought first, because for some reason, a bunch of people have decided that grimace is killing people that don't like the grimmest shake fuck if I know

Let's see all star by smash mouth, everyone wants to rule the world, tears for fears life by the sea by to go and see g 5, I think this is I'm gonna laugh to listen to one, nope, never mind, I thought this was what I thought it was, but it wasn't what I thought it was, so I'm glad that it wasn't what I thought, it was a good second to EQ and tu I tu eres that was fun goodbye by will wood, I don't even know if that makes any sense, I hate this I'm gonna kill myself why oh my, why am I doing this to myself

I guess I'm doing this with, you can understand how wild this is running up that hill by Kate bush chicken fried by Zac Brown band bigger ing the original demo, kill me, rude by magic House of memories by panic at the disco shut lala bye, too young lights out by mindless self indulgence, if you don't know who mindless self indulgence is be glad because I don't know what this is, I hate drag EULA by Rob Zombie, Riptide by Vance, joy Fiesta by is own I don't there's a weird asterisk in their name for some reason

Beautiful girls by Sean Kingston, a sap bye stay see Betty get money by Yung gravy numb by Lincoln Park, who let the dogs out by Baha men rock and roll all nite by kiss, Grow by Conan gray Hansel by Sodikken what the fuck what for

I'm dog days are over by Florence and the machine pussy toes by Pierce the veil grown by daisy in the scouts LA Lisa by Lisa among us in real life by Rebecca says a lot Zama Zama lo I don't know the new birthday song from ride the fucking cyclone escape room buy from us underscore 9 I guess I hate this I don't think this is eligible very well but I don't really care because I just need to get my thoughts out blind by Korn mind over matter by young the giant love shot by x O I'm gonna kill myself dance monkey by tones and I I hate that fucking song Barbie Girl by aqua begging bae Mana skin if we have each other by Alec Benjamin tell me by Wonder Girls life is a highway by rascal Flatts eg by the garden phony by will step son I want to die Mr telephone man by new edition what is that never felt my labyrinth I'm gonna kill myself deadlines by Ruth v mask, saucy drip remix your new boyfriend by Wilbur Shaw. That's what that's all it that's right next to each other, I'm gonna die La Da See by Cody Simpson and if you, if you had a gacha phase, then you know La Da See by Cody Simpson and I feel bad for you

I hate this Cupid's chokehold and breakfast in America by gym class heroes, none little bug, bye m bye hold what the fuck is this solo by Jenny logo by see celebrate good kind, good times by funk town America, happy birthday by Weird Al yankovich, all great Weird Al Yankovic hayloft by mother, mother everything black by unlike Pluto Wap birthday party glue song, calm down with Selena Gomez love by cake bike KC ako I don't even think I pronounce that right sweater weather Mr. Blue sky boomerang by Jojo Siwa hot wings, you know, that song from Rio, I'm just gonna I hate this who made this damn it Stacy's Mom by fountains of Wayne, falling for ya also from teen beach movie toxic, my boy with uke stalkers to go by auto heart, hey, home by cave town soldier, poet king Mexico by Carrie Underwood, all the small things by blink, 182. I'm just naming certain ones, I'm not gonna name, all of them, Kuz that's too much electric love, the Schuyler Sisters, what'd I miss, I'm gonna die, I'm gonna die, I hate this so much, I'm gonna die, I hate this, I'm gonna die, I hate this, I hate this, I hate this, why am I doing this to myself?

Lets lets lets lets keep going jealous by address friends by chase Atlantic Sunday by the cranberries all around me by flyleaf, if you know that song, that chick talk was fighting over if it was a thing about subspace or sexual assault, or Christians, apparently, I don't know first girlfriend by Titus, freaks, by surf curse, oui, by Jeremiah, you know, we like, O u, I, we, we we by Jeremiah, you know the French word, oui.

I don't want to be here crush by Tessa violet lunatic by Luna but with the end in the day is weird things Mr bright side by the killers wannabe by Spice Girls I think I might have said that already Genesis by Grimes Grimes I don't mind system by Louis Tomlinson you know that one song that Louis has that is for some reason super duper fucking email put your records on by rip mommy mom mommy I don't fucking know puppy princess by hot freaks I don't like that title at all should I stay or should I go by the clash no scrubs by TLC aha like a g 6 that song House of Holbein from 6th kill me cheeseburger in paradise by Jimmy Buffett there's nothing holding me back by Shawn Mendez. I just can't do this anymore for he's a jolly good fellow by the countdown kids are you satisfied by Marina Undertale by Toby fox just a girl by no doubt something in the orange by Jack Bryan Zach Bryan not Jack Jack moves like Jagger by maroon 5 and Christina Aguilera kill me in the entire face I hate this epic happy birthday song by epic happy birthday everybody that's back Street's back I hate this song I hate the stupid Backstreet Boys the sound of Simon silence by Simon and Garfunkel me and your Mama by Childish Gambino I actually really like Childish Gambino when I rule the world by Liz I don't want to live forever you know that song from 50 shades my alcoholic friends by the Dresden Dolls which I am almost entirely sure that I saw in a Renfield playlist

Message to loser overcast skies waste my time by Johnny Orlando, you know that one kid that I don't think anybody knows who is Insane that song about that cannibal from Hazbin Hotel I'm gonna die

I don't think you guys understand how much I do not want to do this

Twin size mattress by the front bottoms head will roll heads will roll by yeah yeah yeahs and yes in fact I don't know if y'all seen this post but somebody made a post about how there's a porn hub song by Pornhub on this playlist by Pornhub on Pornhub yeah that's one that's one Pompeii by Bastille angry lizard noise I'm gonna kill I'm dead I'm dead I'm dead I'm dead I hate this worth it featuring kid ink best news ever by mercy me I hate myself awesome sauce by did you reason by dreamcatcher mining means by Bonnie grace I don't want to be here good golly miss Molly by Creedence Clearwater Revival 5 nights at Freddy's security beach frenzy cause that's another song sail by AWOL nation ho hey by the Lumineers the chicken wing chicken lose yourself by Eminem, so let's you by Ed Sheeran, I hate this, so much bad to the bone by George Thorogood and the destroyers, I thought, so I thought it was the destroyers makes sense to me, watch me whip NAE NAE man or Muppet life in the Dreamhouse from the TV series Barbie in the Dreamhouse, she wants me to be loved by the happy fits, which is actually really good song, I hope you're happy now bye Carly Pearce and Lee Brice ceilings by Lizzie McAlpine work for it by big time rush from the new big time rush album, another life I'm gonna die I hate this

Let's see the red means I love you by Mads Merkley, werewolf, boyfriend, Disko warp made mix go Disko warp, if they have a boy or boyfriend, whatever citizen erased by Muse, ain't it fun by Paramore, born for this by the score I'm gonna die right now in my I want to die you can't fight the Homestuck by Broadway Homestuck someone gets hurt, the mean girls Broadway show free show by dirty palm and let's plays don't say love by Leanne spin eternally pixel pig thanks for the memories, but it's the Nate wants to battle cover. Moth to the flame with the weekend by Swedish house Mafia I'm not a vampire by falling in reverse gear, Maria count me in by all time low, dear Theodosia is a reprise from the Hamilton mix mix tape, I don't wanna be here at all interlude Ivy showtime, I don't know if you've heard that, but if you had, this does not belong on here, and you would know that say my name from Beetlejuice. How long bye to flow from the show euphoria apparently to the bone by JT music, you know that fan made song from Undertale that fun ass song again, another one myself, bye basi, I hate this, kill me in the face, monkeys spinning monkeys Wii Sports theme, the cult of Dionysus by the Ori on experience kill me lonely day by system of a down eyes without a face by Billy Idol, the masochism tango by Tom Lehrer

I'm really don't want to be doing this guys. I really don't want to be doing this.

Ah, let's see smooth operator, the single version never ever getting rid of me from waitress jazz on the clock. We're all in this together from high School Musical staying alive by the bee Gee's closer by the Chainsmokers alien blues by Vonda bar industry baby bye lo mas x area codes, free bird. The Knights by a vici I don't wanna be here, classic bae m k t O tongue tied by group Love, it took me by surprise by Maria Mena, hey soul sister by train nothing bye bad lo by bad boy, halo, c g 5 and hyper potions, and I think somebody else. Derby queen by red ants, really like a virgin by motley, Crue motley crew, of all people, are you serious, motley Crue. 7 nation army by the white stripes. I just hate all of these so much because I don't mind majority of these songs by themselves, but when you smash painted black by the Rolling Stones and country girl, shake it for me by Luke Bryan in to the same playlist, there is something wrong with you. Bodies by drowning pool as well, there is something wrong with you.

Oh Jesus, happy face by Tate McRae, a star is born from Hercules, bury the light by Casey Edwards, evil by Interpol 17 the reprise from the Heathers musical with Barrett Wilbert weed, do I want to be here not at all

Lost on you by LP you know that one person that I don't think anybody really knows who is rise up by a m I m e exile and Veronica Bravo who the hello those I don't know dumb dumb by Maisie but the sped up version something to hide by grandson which is a brand new song mind you like that just came out recently like recently recently like I just found that song 2 weeks ago cake by the ocean by d n c e were in the songs that were only added a week ago my new by the way it now I just take my wallet by Jack stop is micro pop the middle by Jimmy eat world Mambo number 5 somewhere only we know the green clad the glee version the glee version the glee version with Darren Criss the glee version ok by cigarettes after sex you can't hide the fun ass song blonde RSS heart attack the rock version the greatest show from greatest showman but the one with Hugh Jackman and not that weird revive come on Eileen by Dexys midnight runners everything moves by bronze radio return trust fund baby why I don't tweet what the fuck are you doing it Saint Bernard by Lincoln human by rag 'n' bone man here and now by letters to Cleo song 2 by blur ride by 21 pilots down on my tail Cruz hello BBY O m f g glimpse of us by Joji putting on the Ritz by taco but boy bye d e v O 1000 years by Christina Perry kid sugar pop I love girls where my Rosemary goes by Edison lighthouse ain't no line up by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell between you and me by Clementine work toda very by Devlin I don't know Broadway girls buy little dirt and Morgan Wallen Friday theme by ugly burger zero lonely by Akon Scotty doesn't know by Lustra spin back by Scooty Wap who is that wolf in sheep's clothing by set it off. Survived the night by Mondo pony, also another motherfucking fnaf song

This is probably entirely ineligible but I do not have the time or the reason or the want to type all of this out so we got mi gente by j Bhavan and Willy Willy and we got the least knobby dad we got hand clap we got 20 inches my saloojee I said that wrong hello Kitty by Avril Levine did I mention from the descendants movie the first one get that for some reason make you mine by public cruise by Florida Georgia line I hate them freezing moon by mayhem we are close to the bottom can't hold us by Macklemore in my mind by Dean or no hide from the Spider-Man movie into the spider while this her which is a really good song and it was just added 5 days ago

Again, I do not want to be here and I do not want to be doing this

Jungle jobs by dial friend about the 28th to 2008 fuck the sentences words I want to kill myself 2008 remaster by yes Obama prison by ice bore BNR live like you were dying by Tim McGraw the Brits are coming because that's a song title apparently a song by the doors the doors are pretty good actually I really want to die I don't want to be doing this but I forced myself to do it we got which by Devin Cole one kiss by Calvin Harris and Dua Lipa I'm the biggest bird by St Mer cat for whatever reason happy face by Jaguar twin Ross beaten by Bonnie m a punk by vampire weekend take on me by a ha what's new Pussycat by Tom Jones put your records on by Corinne Bailey Rae my are bi LA Liya if you don't know this song good for you are you sure thing by Miguel, I don't know what that song even is

Lifeboat from Heathers the musical senpai instrumental Friday night funk in volume 2 I don't know what this is but I'm really curious so I will check that out later we are now in songs added 3 days ago because they are adding songs to this right now apparently they got let it go from Doctor Seuss is movie we got this song is awesome from ride the cyclone holler boys by Upchurch holler boys the fine print by the stupendous I'm gonna die the sound of silence by disturbed somebody to love by Brittany Murphy the time war by Richard O'Brian it's from absolute treasures the Rocky Horror picture show Chau whatever take on me by Astrophysics physics what the fuck is that I mean I know that that is a kind of science but I don't I didn't know that there was like a band or anything now songs added 2 days ago, and the one that I've decided is most notice most notable from 2 days ago, is it only by Dove Cameron from the descendants movie by Disney

[iveypadilla]

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[pvcport9]

When your auto has problems, your instinct is presumably to take it to a handy person. But when commodity goes wrong with your smartphone — say a shattered screen or a depleted battery — you may wonder “ Is it time to buy a new bone?”

That’s because indeed as our consumer electronics have come as vital as our buses, the idea of tech form still hasn't been sown into our collaborative knowledge. Studies have shown that when tech products begin to fail, utmost people are inclined to buy new effects rather than fix their old bones. “ Form is inconvenient and delicate, so people do n’t seek it,” said Nathan Proctor, a director for the.S. Public Interest Research Group, a consumer advocacy association, who's working on legislation to make tech form more accessible. “ Because people do n’t anticipate to repair effects, they replace effects when by far the most logical thing to do is to repair it.” It does n’t have to be this way. Further of us could maintain our tech products, as we do with buses, if it were more practical to doso.However, instructions and tools to revive products, repairs would come simpler and less precious, If we all had further access to the corridor. This premise is at the heart of the “ right to repair” act, a proposed piece of legislation that activists and tech companies have fought over for nearly a decade. Lately, right-to- form sympathizers scored two major triumphs. In May, the Federal Trade Commission published a report explaining how tech companies were harming competition by confining repairs. And last Friday, President Biden issued an administrative order that included a directive for theF.T.C. to place limits on how tech manufacturers could circumscribe repairs. Service Center in Hyderabad,Repair Centre,TV,LED TV,LCD TV,Washing Machine,Refrigerator,Geyser,AC,Micro Oven,Samsung,LG,Sony,Whirlpool,IFB,Panasonic TheF.T.C. is set to meet coming week to bandy new programs about electronics form. Then’s what you need to know about the fight over your right to fix widgets. What's the right-to- form act? The legislation, which was preliminarily proposed in about two dozen countries and is now being bandied on a civil position, would bear tech and appliance manufacturers to give the tools, instructions and corridor necessary for anyone to fix their smartphones, tablets, computers and refrigerators, as well as other products. That would be a major shift. Tech companies presently give service tools and corridor only to a network of officially approved mates, including big brands with service centers like Best Buy and some independent form shops. These sanctioned mates generally follow strict rules, which include using genuine corridor bought directly from the manufacturer, so costs to the client may be advanced than repairs done by unauthorized form centers. By making coffers astronomically available, the unofficial form centers could more fluently contend to drive costs down. And that would make form a more compelling option than buying a new contrivance. Why should I watch? Service Center in Hyderabad,Repair Centre,TV,LED TV,LCD TV,Washing Machine,Refrigerator,Geyser,AC,Micro Oven,Samsung,LG,Sony,Whirlpool,IFB,Panasonic Tech products are among our most precious ménage purchases, and their prices keep climbing. Not long agone, the price of a high- end smartphone was$ 650. Moment, new Apple and Samsung phones start at$ 700 and$ 800. The average ménage would save$ 330 a time if it repaired products rather than replaced them, which adds up to$ 40 billion civil, according to a study by theU.S. Public Interest Research Group. By dragging the life of your widgets, you would also put further use into the energy, essence, plastics and mortal labor invested in creating the product. Why do n’t further people repair their tech? There are several walls to repairing consumer electronics that can make it intimidating. Introductory repairs, like replacing a shattered screen or a depleted battery, aren't simple. Ultramodern widgets are so thin and tightly fused together that special tools are generally demanded to pry them open. It’s also not straightforward to buy genuine corridor — you ca n’t go to the Apple or Samsung website to order a relief screen or battery, for illustration. Fixing introductory factors is also getting decreasingly impracticable for unauthorized form shops, especially with Apple phones. Numerous important corridor inside newer iPhones, including cameras, batteries and defenses, bear personal software tools to finish the job, independent fixers said. Going to the Apple and Microsoft retail stores and authorized form shops is a simple option, but the costs there can be so high that you might be prevailed to just buy a new device. When I took my woman’s iPhone to an Apple Store this time, I was quoted$ 280 to replace a broken touch- screen, about 40 percent of the price of a brand-new iPhone. I turned to another route rather. Why wo n’t unauthorized fixers come authorized? Independent fixers get access to tools, corridor and instructions for repairs when they enroll in hookups with tech companies to come sanctioned service centers. But Kyle Wiens, principal superintendent of iFixit, which publishes free instruction primers for people to restore their widgets, said numerous independent fixers were turned off by the contractual terms to come sanctioned. One demand to be an sanctioned Apple form center involves collecting detailed service records, including client names, product periodical figures and mailing addresses. This information must be handed to Apple in the event of an inspection to corroborate that repairs are being done duly. Indeed if a form provider terminates its agreement with Apple, it must agree to continue to partake this information with the company for two times. There's also the issue of price. Shakeel Taiyab, an independent fixer in South San Francisco, said he charged lower prices to guests because he attained authentic corridor from channels similar as electronics refurbishers who prize working factors from imperfect widgets. (He charged me$ 180 to fix my woman’s iPhone screen, undercutting the Apple store by$ 100.)

[nastybuckybarnes]

In a Heartbeat  -  Seven

Pairing: Fireman!Bucky X Reader

Summary: You’ve always been careful with your heart. With your condition, you don’t exactly have any other choice. The last time you let someone in, you paid the price. A price you don’t plan on paying again. Until Bucky comes in and shatters your carefully crafted world.

Warnings: Angst, Language, Injuries, Fluff, Fluff, FLUFF

Word Count: 4.1K

A/n: Here she is! Part seven! I’m gonna write a little epilogue but the fic can very well end here! I love this series with my whole heart and soul omg

Series Masterlist

~*~

He’s numb.

So damn numb.

Nothing even matters. His ears are ringing, the bright lights bouncing off the linoleum floors are fucking with his eyes but he doesn’t care because you’ve been in the operating room for hours and all he wants is to see you, to make sure you’re okay.

No one’s said a single thing to him about whether or not you’re okay, and it’s taking all of his self-control not to break down that door and see for himself.

A heavy hand lands on his shoulder, jolting him from his thoughts and bringing him back to the loud sounds of the waiting room.

He furrows his brows at Steve, confused out of his mind until he sees Tommy in his other arm, head resting against his father's shoulder and a casted arm hanging limply at his side.

“Hey Tommy, how you feeling?” The brunet asks, his voice rough and hoarse with lack of use.

The six-year-old only whimpers softly in response, burrowing further into his father’s neck.

“He’s okay. Doctor’s got him on some painkillers. Said it was a clean break from pounding on that window.” Bucky stands up, rubbing his nephew on the back. “You’re a hero, buddy. Just like your daddy.” Tommy sniffles and nods, the sight breaking the man’s heart.

“You should head home for the night, Buck. Shower, rest, then come back in the morning.” He clenches his jaw and swallows hard, shaking his head.

“I-I can’t, Steve. What if... what if she comes out and I’m not here? Or what if...” He trails off, not even wanting to entertain the idea of the other option.

“I saw Nat on her way down here. Ask her for an update and then go home. You’ve had a long day. And when she’s out of surgery she's gonna be upset to see that you’ve exhausted yourself out here in the waiting room.” Steve has a point. Both men are still in their fire gear, having rushed to the hospital directly from the fire.

It’s after midnight now.

“I’m taking Tommy home. Take care of yourself tonight, Buck. If not for you, then for her.” He nods, eyes on the floor as the blond leaves, his son curled up against his side.

“Barnes? You’re still here?” He looks up at the sound of Natasha’s voice, desperation evident on his face as she walks over to him.

“I’ve got no update other than she’s unstable and that they’re doing everything they can. It’ll be another few hours before she’s out of surgery and even then, she’s going straight to the ICU and won’t be awake for at least a day or so.” He lets out a terribly shaky breath but nods, rubbing his eyes then pinching the bridge of his nose.

“Y-you’ll call if there are any updates, right? I’m just gonna pop home and shower and sleep for a few hours but I'll be back first thing in the morning.” She nods, taking his hand and squeezing tightly.

“I’m off for the rest of the night, so I’ll be sticking around bugging the nurses for updates whenever I can. Might even bribe an intern with good coffee, not this hospital shit.” Bucky chuckles softly, shaking his head.

“Okay.” He takes a step towards the exit then hesitates, looking back at the redhead for a. moment. “Do you think she’s gonna make it?” He asks, his voice soft and broken and nearly lost among the sea of people.

Natasha swallows hard and avoids his eyes, taking a deep breath before answering.

“The doctors are doing everything they can.” A rehearsed answer. An answer she gives to relatives to let them know that they shouldn’t expect much.

He says nothing, only gives her a firm nod, then turns and leaves the hospital.

Hot droplets of water rain down on him, washing away the stench of smoke and the physical reminder of the events of the day. But no heat and no water pressure will wash away the sorrow in his soul. The absolute unadulterated fear that grips his bones and seeps into his bloodstream. That is something that won’t be washed away by any amount of water and suds.

His movements are mechanical, scrub, rinse, dry, dress.

The sleep that finds him is restless and fitful, filled with nightmares that will haunt him for nights to come. Every thought, both waking and otherwise, are occupied by you. Your face, your smile, your laugh, and the thought that he may never experience any of them again.

He's back at the hospital at six-thirty, coffee in his metal hand because his flesh one is shaking too much.

Just as he’s walking to the reception desk, he sees Natasha walking towards the waiting room. Her face is unreadable when she sees him, but he notices her take a deep breath.

“What is it?” He asks, not bothering with pleasantries.

“She’s out of surgery. She’s still unstable, hasn’t woken up yet, but she’s been out for about three hours. She probably won’t wake up until this evening.” He takes a few deep breaths then nods, a bubble of relief hugging him tenderly.

“Where is she?” Nat sighs and turns on her heel, leading him towards your room.

“James, I’m not going to sugar coat this for you. She’s not doing well. There’s still a fair chance that she won’t wake up.” She stops, looking up at him with vulnerability in her eyes, tears brimming.

“What is it?” He’s nervous, his heart feels like it’s going to explode.

“They’re saying she needs a transplant. That her heart won’t last for much longer and if she wants any hope of surviving more than a couple years, she’ll need a new heart.”

The air leaves his lungs in a whoosh, almost as if someone punched him in the gut. He stumbles back a step, coffee dropped and hands coming to the tops of his thighs as he hunches over, trying to catch his breath.

“That’s a best-case scenario. Worst case is she... well... we should’ve said our goodbyes. But she’s strong. She’ll pull through. She has to pull through.” That last part is whispered so softly that the brunet almost misses it.

“Nat,” his voice breaks, it cracks and splinters and shatters in pieces on the linoleum that he doesn’t have the energy to pick up. He can’t pick himself back up. Not if you might not wake up. He just can’t.

“Sit down, c’mon.” She helps him lean back against the wall, sliding down until he’s seated, arms draped over his knees and his head hanging heavily between them.

He can’t breathe.

A sick voice in his head screams that this is what you must’ve been feeling, this terrible tightness in your chest, this inability to draw in a single damn breath. It’s unbearable and for just a moment he realizes he wouldn’t blame you if you gave up, if you just let it take you. But he shakes that thought from his head and instead focuses on you fighting. You need to fight. If you can pull through, then they can find you a new heart and you’ll be okay.

You’re going to be okay.

You have to be okay.

~*~

Everything feels still. Dry. Bland.

If you could pin it to a colour, that colour would be beige.

Everything feels beige.

You’ve been awake for a little while now, gathering your bearings and trying to remember what happened. The last thing you remember is the fire bell... Wanda telling you not to go... and then running back into the building to find Tommy.

Tommy.

Your heart picks up in speed, pain flaring through your chest at the action, and an alarm starts beeping rapidly.

It takes only seconds for the door to open, nurses and doctors flooding into the room and checking the various machines around you while you grab at the front of your hospital gown uselessly, trying to alleviate the pain.

“(Y/n), I need you to take a big breath with me, okay?” A doctor says, her brown eyes focused on yours. You nod, inhaling with her for a moment then exhaling. You do this a few times and the machine gradually stops, your heart slowing as whatever they injected into your bloodstream takes effect.

Nurses slowly trickle out, leaving just you and the doctor.

“Well, you sure know how to make an entrance,” she says with a smile, looking over your chart.

“What can I say, Doc? I’ve got a flair for the dramatic.” Your voice is weak, far weaker than it should be, and that alone scares you.

She chuckles softly, smiling at your words before tucking the chart under her arm and looking at you straight on.

“You being alive right now is an absolute miracle,” she says softly, taking a step towards the bed then motioning to the chair beside it, asking wordlessly if she can take a seat.

You nod, taking a few deep breaths as you prepare to hear whatever news she has for you.

“Your heart stopped twice on the way to the hospital, and the second time we almost couldn’t get it going again. Your heart is weak, and what you endured nearly ruptured your left atrium and you had severe lacerations of your ventricles. It is most comparable to a very severe heart attack, and you’re lucky to have survived.”

She doesn’t look like she’s delivering good news. No, she should be happy if you’re lucky to have survived. That fact alone puts you on edge.

“What is it? What... what’s wrong with my heart now?” You know it can’t be good judging only by the look on her face. It’s a look you’ve seen far too many times.

“With the rate you’re going, your heart will give out completely in three or four years. And it won’t be a pleasant process. You’ll be in pain, bedridden and hospitalized because you won’t be able to move. The only alternative is a transplant.” The world around you shifts from beige to grey, the clouds dark and the room sorrowful.

Your ears start ringing, loud and painfully and it takes everything in you not to rip them right off.

“S-so that’s it then? I’m gonna die in three years if I’m lucky? I’ve only got three years left?” She sighs and looks down at her hands, “the only other option would be to put you on a waiting list for a new heart, but we cannot guarantee that you’ll get it in time, but it’s worth a shot.” You shake your head, tears falling from your eyes and splattering on the ugly blue hospital blanket.

“I don’t want a new heart! I don’t want to go through a process and get my hopes up over something that I won’t get in time.” You sniffle and shove your face in your hands, the steady beeping of the machine next to you making you want to cry even harder.

“I’ll give you some time, (Y/n).” The doctor gets up and leaves, a sad look on her face as she turns to the pair waiting anxiously outside your door.

Natasha pushes herself to her feet, her eyes wide with curiosity and desperation.

“I recommend you give her space. She’s... processing everything,” Doctor Palmer says softly, giving Natasha a sad smile before walking away to handle her other patients.

Nat exchanges looks with Bucky then slowly walks to the door.

“Just give me a minute to see how she’s doing, okay? I’ll tell her you’re out here waiting, I just wanna see if she needs anything.” He takes a deep breath but nods, understanding that Natasha would be able to tell, if only from a medical standpoint, what you need.

You keep your face in your hands, tears wetting your palms, as the door opens again.

“Beans?” Nat’s voice makes you stiffen, sniffling and wiping your eyes before peeking up at her.

Her heart shatters in her chest at the sight of you.

Skin dull, eyes heavy and sunken. She’s seen a lot of sick people before but never would she have put you in the same category as them. Now though? Now, you look the part.

“I uh... I heard the news. Bugged the nurses for updates and they finally caved.”

Your bottom lip wobbles and then a sob bubbles out of your chest.

Nat’s face falls and she slides onto the bed beside you, pulling you into a tight embrace while you sob.

“Oh beans,” she whispers, smoothing your hair away from your face.

“I don’t want a new heart!” You cry, tears soaking her shirt. She hugs you, holds you tightly while you cry out your frustrations, your sorrows.

It’s agony.

She has so many questions, so much she wants to say, but she knows better.

She holds her tongue, wanting you to be in a better headspace before she talks to you about your options. It’s too soon. The wound is too fresh.

Bucky sits impatiently outside of the room the whole time, leg bouncing and flesh fingers trembling.

Natasha comes out of your room a short while later, sniffling and wiping at her cheeks.

“What’s happening? Is she okay?” The redhead nods, taking a few deep breaths.

“I’ve seen a lot of sick people, Barnes. A lot of them. But seeing her... seeing my friend so weak and tiny...” She shakes her head, looking up at him with glossy eyes.

“I’m scared, Buck.” Bucky pulls her into a hug, his own breaths shaking.

“It's okay. It’s gonna be okay.” She sniffles again then speaks, “she’s asleep again. She should be good to see you the next time she wakes up though. I’m sure she misses you.” He squeezes his eyes shut but nods, trying to mentally prepare himself to see you in such a fragile state.

~*~

Bucky doesn’t know how to feel.

He doesn’t even want to feel.

Helpless.

That’s the word that sums it up the best.

Seeing you on that hospital bed, tubes attached to your face, arms, and chest, he feels absolutely helpless.

“Hey,” he murmurs, smiling gently when you look up from your book.

“Bucky... Hi.” Your voice is raspy and hoarse, and he has to take a few shaky breaths to stop from crying.

“You mind if I sit?” You shake your head, motioning to the chair beside your bed.

He takes a seat and looks at you closely, his eyes welling up with tears.

“How ya feelin, pretty girl?” You huff a breath out through your nose then shrug, trying your hardest to stay strong in front of him.

“I uh... I’ve been better, I gotta say.” He chuckles weakly then nods, sniffling and dropping his gaze for a moment.

“Nat uh... Nat told me what the doctors said. About your heart and stuff. That’s... intense.” It’s not the best word but it’s the only one he can find.

You blow a breath out through your mouth and nod.

“It’s scary,” you whisper, not looking up from your hands even when he takes them in his.

“I’m scared. I don’t want to be put on a waiting list only to not get one in time. And there are people who need a new heart more than I do. People who want one more than I do.” He furrows his brows and cocks his head to the side in confusion.

“What do you mean, you don’t want a new heart? Why wouldn’t you want one?”

You sigh heavily, “because, James. This is my heart. It’s the heart that I’ve lived with for my whole life. I don’t want a new one because this one is mine. This is the one that’s dealt with heartbreaks and betrayals. This is the one that’s gotten me through the bad days and the good. And this is the one that chose you. I don’t want a different one. I wanna keep this one. And don’t you dare tell me that my days are numbered if I keep this one because my days are numbered regardless.”

You finally look up at him, fire in your eyes as you express everything that’s been going on in your mind.

“We’re all gonna die someday, and it may not be the way we expect or the way we want, and we won’t ever be fully ready for it. But it’s gonna happen. I’d much rather know that I spent my life doing what I wanted on my terms. If my days are numbered, I'd rather enjoy them than spend them waiting for a heart I may never get. My heart’s still got a few years left in it. Careful years, yeah, but years no less.”

Tears stain his cheeks and he nods, sniffling twice then pressing a kiss to your hands.

“I’m not going to try and change your mind, Doll. The choice is completely yours and no matter what you decide to do, I’ll stay by your side through all of it, I promise. You’re my girl, my best girl, my only girl, and I want you to do what’s best for you.” You squeeze your eyes shut, having mentally prepared yourself for him to put up a fight, not for him to be so supportive of your decision.

“I love you, (Y/n). And I’m gonna cherish every fucking moment that you let me spend with you because I love you. I thought,” he pauses, pulling a hand back to scrub the tears off of his cheeks only for more to fall.

“I thought I’d lose you before getting a chance to truly tell you. But I’m not gonna waste any more time because life is a precious gift. I love you, (Y/n). So much. To the fucking ends of the Earth. I love you and I don't want a day to go by where you don’t know just how much I love you.”

You whimper, his confession making warmth spread through your body and tears rain down your cheeks.

“I-I love you too, James. With every ounce of my heart, I love you. And I don't want to let you down and I never want to hurt you.” He closes his eyes, content to bask in the weight of your words for a moment longer, a private, intimate moment.

He eventually settles his head on the bed next to your hip, and your fingers find their way into his luscious brown locks, twirling the thick strands around mindlessly.

“When are you getting discharged?” He asks, his voice muffled by the bed.

“I’m not sure yet. Doctor Palmer said she wants to keep me here for at least another week or so to monitor my heart and take me off the medication, and then maybe some more time after that depending on how weak I am.” He nods, nuzzling against you some more.

“I’m not going back to work ‘till you’re out,” he says matter-of-factly.

You only giggle, shaking your head.

“James, that’s not even plausible. You’ve got bills to pay. Besides, you’ll get tired of being here. I’m gonna spend most of my time sleeping or bugging the nurses for some real food.” He lifts his head, eyes full of vulnerability.

“I just don't wanna leave you and then...” He trails off but you understand his concern.

“I’m gonna be okay. Doctor Palmer says I’m doing okay. I’m sure Nat will continue bugging her for updates and she’ll let you know if there’s anything concerning happening. But I’m gonna be fine, I swear.” He watches you for a moment longer before nodding and pressing his head against your thigh.

A thought bubbles into your mind and you tug gently on his hair to get his attention.

“What happened to Tommy?” You ask, voice tight and filled with apprehension.

Bucky only smiles gently.

“Lil guy’s a hero. He busted that window open, that’s how we found you two. Broke his arm but he’s okay. Says he looks like me so he likes it.” A smile finds its way onto your face at the idea of Tommy looking up to his uncle so much.

“He’s already gotten everyone at the firehouse to sign it, and I’m sure when he’s back to school he’ll get everyone there to sign it too. But the lil guy’s a hero. Gonna make a good firefighter.” You nod, mind flashing back to those last few moments in the school.

“I was so scared, James. I-I couldn’t protect him and I didn’t know what to do.” He reaches up and strokes your cheek gently, shushing you softly.

“It’s okay, pretty girl. It’s okay. Everyone’s okay.” You take a few deep breaths and nod, trying to calm down before your heart rate picks up too much.

“You need to worry about yourself, and not everyone else. Focus on getting better, okay? And then, when you’re ready, I’m gonna take you out on a date and show you just how much you can enjoy life, okay?”

You nod, smiling at him.

“Okay.”

~*~

“Miss (Y/l/n)!” Tommy runs at you full speed, nearly knocking you over when he barrels into your legs.

Bucky’s quick to steady you, opening his mouth to reprimand his nephew but you stop him, raising a hand to cut him off.

“Hey, Tommy! How’s my little superhero feeling?” He pulls back and smiles up at you.

“I got another cast so now my arm looks just like uncle Bucky’s!” You glance at the new blue cast and smile brightly.

“Look at that! And you’re a hero just like him too, huh?” He nods excitedly then digs around in his pocket for a moment.

“Here!” He hands you a sharpie then points to a blank space on his cast.

“I made sure to leave room for you to sign it!” Your face softens and you crouch down in front of him, signing your name and drawing a small picture.

“Thank you, Tommy.” He nods, glancing over his shoulder as his dad calls his name.

“C’mon Tommy! You gonna help us move or are you gonna help miss (Y/l/n) get organized?” He looks between you and his dad then runs over to the moving truck, excitedly grabbing whatever his little arms can carry then bringing them into the house.

Bucky wraps an arm around your waist and presses a soft kiss to your temple.

“You ready?” You look up at your new house, then over at him, nodding without hesitation.

“Absolutely.”

The moving process is long and tedious, and after seven hours of lifting, unboxing, cleaning, and organizing, you’re about ready to call it a day.

“Pizza’s on its way, and Nat ran out to grab some beers,” Bucky says, coming up into the master bedroom. Concern immediately colours his features as he sees the way you’re sitting. You’re on the bed, hunched over with one hand on your mouth and the other on your lower abdomen.

“(Y/n)?” He asks, coming to a crouch in front of you and trying to get a look at your face.

You take a few deep breaths then nod, opening your eyes and offering him a weak smile.

“You okay?” You nod again but he seems unconvinced.

“What’s wrong? Are you okay?” You take a deep breath and reach for his hand, squeezing it gently.

“I uh.. not really. I wanted to tell you in a better way but I guess this is as good as it’s going to get.” His heart is in his throat, absolutely terrified of what you’re going to tell him.

You’ve been going to the doctor a lot more frequently, and your energy levels have plummeted.

He knew you didn’t have time left but it hasn’t even been six months since the fire.

You pull his hand to your stomach and rest it there gently, eyes finding his as you wait for it to click.

He stares at his hand in confusion, that confusion melting away as he realizes what you’re telling him.

“Wait, are you...?”  His eyes are wide, eyebrows raised and heart pounding.

You only nod, tears welling up in your eyes as he launches up and wraps his arms around your frame.

“Oh my god. Oh my god! I’m gonna be a dad!” You giggle wetly, tears of joy falling and getting soaked up by his shirt.

“We’re gonna have a baby.” He pulls back, hands on your small baby bump.

“How far along are you?” He asks, cradling the bump delicately between his hands.

“About three months. And the doctor said that they’ve already got a birth plan ready, and different pills for me to take to calm my heart.” His glossy eyes look up at you, so full of love and adoration.

“I can’t believe it. I...” he stops, leaning in the gently kiss your lips then pulls you into another tight embrace.

“Thank you, (Y/n). Thank you.”

[makerofmadness]

Incorrect quotes hours once again (may have accidentally left a few person [letters] in there from the templates I used on some of these)

~ Margret: Are you okay??

Andy, crying: It's okay, I was just cutting onions

Margret:

Margret, glaring at the onions: Square up

-

Claus: Dear friends, your Christmas gift this year… is me. That’s right, another year of friendship. Your membership has been renewed.

-

Thomas: My life isn't as glamorous as my wanted poster makes it look.

-

Andy: So apparently the 'bad vibes' I’ve been feeling were actually severe psychological distress.

-

Thomas: Did you hear that!? Arthur just threatened to destroy my lego AT-AT! Kamryn: ...You just threatened to kill him in his sleep.

-

Felix: You think you're smarter than everyone else. Claus: I don't think I'm smarter than everyone else. I know I am.

-

Thomas: Are you sure Arthur’s even gay? He barely even looked at me.

-

Thomas: Did you like the food I made? Isabella: No, not really. Thomas: But I put my heart and soul into it! Isabella: No wonder it tastes so cold and dead.

-

Arthur: I thought I told you to stop reading my emails. Thomas: Well, I thought I told you to stop keeping secrets!

-

Andy: Well Melody, whenever I’m about to do something, I think ‘would Peter do that?’ and if he would, I do not do that thing. Melody: … Peter, from the distance: He’s not wrong though!

-

Louis: I did it! I memorized everything in the book! I'm gonna ace this test! Isabella: Ok, Louis, I'll give you one more question before you go. What ended in 1918? Louis: 1917. Isabella: ...You're ready.

-

Andy: All of the sudden I got a random burst of energy, and I think it's my body's last hurrah before it completely shuts down.

-

Cop: You’re receiving a ticket for having three people on one motorcycle. Margret: Dammit. Felix: Wait, three? Cop: Yeah? Claus: Oh my god, ANDY FELL OFF!!!

-

The Entity: Hey Thomas? Thomas: Yeah? The Entity: Can a person breathe inside a washing machine while it's on? Thomas: Thomas: Where's Louis?

-

Andy after the events of Chapter 1 + the Christmas Special: In light of what you guys did to me, you can hug me for four to five seconds. Melody: FORTY FIVE SECONDS?!? Andy: No! Four to five seconds! Everyone: Too late!!!

-

Felix: Do you think different paints have different tastes? Melody: They do. Andy: ...Why did you say that with such certainty?

-

Claus: I warned you. Claus: I'm perfect.

-

Thomas, after bringing Kamryn back in the game: Welcome back! You missed 3 murder attempts, a plague, and about 16 lawsuits. Kamryn: Wha- Arthur: I wish he were joking.

-

Claus: I have the sharpest memory here - name one time I forgot something! Andy: You left me, Melody, and Felix in a Walmart parking lot at 2am a day ago. Claus: I did that on purpose, try again.

-

Melody: For self defense reasons, I'm going to pretend to be a burglar and you guys have to act wisely. Felix, Andy, & Peter: Okay. Melody: If you don't want to die, give me all your money. Felix: Bold of you to assume I have money. Andy: Bold of you to assume I don't want to die. Peter Bold of you to assume I can die.

-

Andy: *Taps fingers on table* Claus: *Taps back furiously* Felix: …What’s going on? Margret: Morse code. They’re talking. Andy: -.-- --- ..- .----. .-. . / - .... . / -.-. ..- - . ... - Claus: *Slams hands on table* YOU TAKE THAT BACK!

-

Andy: I have never been more scared in my life.

-

Isabella: Start talking! Thomas: Well, I- Isabella: Shut up!

-

Thomas: I hate you, Arthur. Arthur: "Hate” is a strong word. Thomas: I have strong opinions.

-

Melody: Are you having another depressive episode? Andy: A depressive episode? Andy: I'm having a depressive series and we're just on season one.

(more under the cut)

Peter: Pardon the intrusion, but- Andy: On this moment or just my life in general?

-

Andy: I just fell down an entire flight of stairs and Claus told me "Oh be careful." As if I didn't already fall all the way down.

-

Felix: Hey Andy, do you have any hobbies? Andy: Swimming.. Felix: Really? That’s cool. I never expected you to- Andy: In a pool of self hatred and regret.

-

Peter: When someone points at your black clothes and asks whose funeral it is, having a look around the room and saying 'Haven’t decided yet' is typically a good response.

-

The Entity: Everything will be ok. You can not stop it. The Entity: Everything will be fine. You have no choice. Thomas: What the fuck kind of pep talk is that? The Entity: Ominous positivity.

-

Margret: I have found a foolproof method of determining if someone is truly evil Felix: Which is? Margret: If they dislike Andy, they’re evil. Felix, nodding his head in agreement: Yeah that makes sense. Then we kill them.

-

Andy: HELP! I TOLD MARGRET I’D COOK DINNER TONIGHT, BUT I CAN’T COOK! Felix, pouring milk directly into the cereal bag: And you thought I could help?

-

Claus: You’ll have a hard time believing this because it never happens, but I made a mistake.

-

Andy: As someone who has a long history of not understanding anything, I feel confident in my ability to continue not knowing what is going on.

-

Andy: I keep a picture of all of us in my wallet. Whenever I face difficulties, I take it out and stare at the picture. The Squad: Awwww- Andy: And I tell myself "If I can deal with these idiots, then I can deal with anything." The Squad: Oh.

-

Andy: I drink to forget but I always remember. Margret: You're drinking orange juice.

-

Melody: I mean, sure, I have my bad days, but then I remember what a cute smile I have.

-

Andy: Sometimes, I don’t realize an event was traumatic until I tell it as a funny story and notice everyone is staring at me weird.

-

Isabella: Ok, first of all, what the fuck?

-

Margret: You know, I'm starting to regret showing you how that blender works. Felix, drinking toast: Why do you say that?

-

Melody: Do you even know what an amulet is? Felix: Of course I do! I eat amulets sometimes. I like the ones with cheese and onions! Melody: Felix, those are omelettes. Felix: Oh. Then I’ve got nothing.

-

Thomas: So... what’s goin’ on? Isabella, having just watched Louis drown: You want the long version or the short version? Thomas, hesitantly: The short one, I guess? Isabella: Shit’s fucked. Thomas: Oh. Well, yeah, that’s definitely not an optimal situation.

-

*When Andy gets stuck in the barn for more than an hour*

Claus: It's locked. You got a lock pick? Melody: Yeah- Margret: *Kicks down the door*

-

Thomas: I’m a reverse necromancer. Isabella: Isn’t that just killing people? Thomas: Ah, technically.

-

Claus, wonderingly: How many Felix’s would it take to fix a lightbulb? Margret: The real question is, how many ladders would he need? Felix, somewhere else: I just got the feeling that I need to murder someone.

-

The Entity/Peter: Thomas is having a midlife crisis, and Andy is just having a crisis.

-

Andy: How stupid do you think I am?! Claus: You really want an honest answer to that?

-

Margret: Some people are like slinkies. Claus: What? Margret: Not really good for much but bring a smile to your face when you push them down the stairs. Claus: Claus: Please don't push Andy down the stairs. Margret, pushing Andy down the stairs: Too late.

-

Andy: I made this friendship bracelet for you. Margret: You know, I’m not really a jewelry person. Andy: You don’t have to wear… Margret: No, I’m gonna wear it forever. Back off.

-

Sam: Hey, aren’t you Thomas Eastwood? Thomas: You a cop? Sam: No. Thomas: Then yes, I am.

-

Kamryn: Are you drunk? Thomas: Only on the spirit of Christmas! Arthur: And the spirit of whisky.

-

Kamryn: *Speaking Spanish* Thomas: I know, I know. Arthur: You speak Spanish? Thomas: No. I just know the phrase, 'this is all your fault' in every language Kamryn speaks.

-

Claus: Ew. What kind of tea is this? Felix: I boiled gatorade.

[may-day-voice]

please do not repost, but you have permission to reblog :)

• Watch/ Listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zBq6DB8NS3I

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The Rook

Part of Villain AU Phase One | 122532019

Your heart fluttered in your chest, breathing slowly and silently in a cramped small space, tucking your legs close to your chest in an attempt to shrink into a ball.

"Come out, come out, wherever you are," cooed the smooth voice, his boots slowly trekking through the commercial kitchen. You dared not peek from your hiding spot, eyeing the warped reflection of his body against the silver surfaces of the cabinetry. Not much has changed, except for those gnarled, tattered wings that draped along the floor behind him.

"Oh come on Pidge. This game is getting old," he purred, his wings fluttering violently against the tables, shuddering the cutlery with a brutish clang. Your shoulders hitched from the sound, clasping your hands around your mouth to keep your breath still. As long as you breathed quietly, he may not find you.

Your eyes peered towards the roof of the kitchen, visualizing yourself still in your hiding spot while the map of the kitchen laid before you in a shadowy reflection. There amongst the map, stood Hawks, his eyes still scanning the kitchen while you began to visualize all probabilities available to him and you. Many revealed failed escape attempts, a few highlighted failure staying where you were; with each probable outcome, the hope of escape was extremely slim.

His boots scuffed before you, still hiding in that tiny hole between the tables. He stopped where he stood, turning every once in a while to survey the empty commercial kitchen, twirling a bright rouge feather in his fingers. He stared at the tiny down, smirking at its colour and vibrancy.

"Smart of you to leave this behind Pidge. You've caught on real quick," he mused while the feather floated in his palm, still attached to its necklace. "But a promise is a promise, and I'm here to return it back to you."

You stared back at the ceiling, ignoring his legs to find that your chances were slipping away with each passing breath. Would he walk by? Or would he find you? You knew he knew better. It all came down to tactical strategy and advantage. He would play his Bishop, which left you with-

"Found you Pidge!"

You kicked into his face as hard as your legs could spring from your hiding spot, catching him off guard briefly before you leapt out and ran for the exit. Your Knight had to take the place of a pawn, leaving you some breathing space to escape. You slammed into the swinging double doors, running down the hall towards the lobby where you had three choices. Exit the building, find your way to the underground garage, or call for help from the reception. You had to keep yourself six steps ahead and find your pawns to halt his advance. The numbers ran through your head, the percentages of success depending on Hawks' recovery and his speed. Getting out would mean a great advantage to the Flying Hero, calling for help was an outlying choice dependent on who would receive your call and for how long. Out of all of your choices, the quickest to give you some time was the underground garage.

Your feet echoed in the dark and empty lobby, only lit by the moonlight through the large windows that revealed the illuminated street lights of the city. Your eyes darted between the elevator or the stairs. Which one would give you more time?

A slam of the doors echoed from behind, revealing Hawks soaring through the hall before he emerged into the lobby, floating above the expanse of the room with his eyes darting everywhere. His blind left eye was of no use, relying so much on his only functioning eye to spot the lights of the elevator illuminate, sending the box to the lobby floor. He floated towards the ground until a sliver of light caught his eye, catching the fire emergency door slowly and hauntingly close. A smirk crawled on his lips before his feet landed on the floor, fluttering his wings from the strain. He stared at the door, contemplating his own choices before he entered through it, taking the flight of stairs down.

The lobby fell silent again, except for the ding of the elevator's door opening absently on the floor. You slowly peeked your head from the reception desk, having hidden under it for the time Hawks had witnessed his available choices. He had an advantage on you in the long run if you had continued to run, exerting all your energy into escaping with the likelihood of Hawks catching up to you. Bluffing was your only option to give you some time.

With Hawks having taken the bait, you carefully collected the phone from the desk, taking the machine under with you. You didn't want to take any chances of Hawks realizing any movement from above now at this stage of the game.

Dialing a set of numbers, you were met with a familiar dial tone, shrinking yourself into a ball with the reception phone in your lap. Your breath was still again, inhaling slowly and exhaling quietly.

"If I show you, then I know you won't tell what I said," spoke a young voice on the line, the gruffness lining his irritation.

"Cause two can keep a secret, if one of them is dead," you answered in a low whisper, still with a quiet breath.

"Hey, where are you?" Asked the voice laced with worry and surprise despite that gruff undertone.

"The old Commission building," you whispered.

"This whole time?"

"Hawks is here too," you continued, eyeing the ceiling once more. "Look, I don't know how long I have left hiding here until he realizes my bluff. What's the status over there?"

"We're on standby. Things are out of control. We've lost our lead investigator for... Deku." The voice strained when it uttered the name, hearing the disdain and the hurt.

"I'm sorry Izumi," you spoke, eyeing your probable outcomes along the tall ceiling of the lobby, eyeing your chances of escape growing slimingly thin.

"Anyway, our insider is still on the case about Todoroki, and we've informed them to advise others out in the field," continued Kota.

"How is Eri?"

"Fine."

You still controlled your breathing, forcing your reaction to his abrupt reply down into the pit of your stomach. He had always been protective of Eri. Not at first, but when the world flipped on its head, it became his purpose. You smiled inwardly at the thought, lucky to find upcoming Heroes in the making in these darker times.

"We can get to you-"

"No," you interrupted. "This is Riot Territory. I don't want you to run in head first while Red Riot is roaming about."

"Then, what do you want us to do?"

Your eyes darted with every outcome that played out on the ceiling above, the shadowy reflection revealing all possibilities with varying levels of failure. In the end, your heart sank. You've reached the endgame phase with only two options left - both zugzwang.

"Hey, are you listening?" spoke Izumi, his voice anxious. "We can't let them have you!"

"I'm sorry Izumi," you whispered, halting the quiet breaths you forced yourself to breathe. "You need to look after Eri. She's going to have to make a big decision soon."

"No, no, no, don't you dare make that decision," he retorted. "It's not yours to make!"

"Make sure the Shimanos are present as well. Eri trusts Katsuma just as much she does with you," you suggested while you slowly stood to your feet from under the desk.

"Stop talking like we're going ahead with that decision. I hated the fact that dumbass even thought of the plan. We are not going ahead with that plan."

You smiled at his irate response, while you placed the phone on the reception desk, now out of hiding. The lobby was silent except for the echo of your voice filling the room, breathing freely from your practiced silent breaths earlier during the night.

"Izumi-"

"We need you back here! We've lost too much now, we can't lose anymore!" His voice echoed through the earpiece, adding an echo in the lobby while you smiled at his reply.

"Then win," you replied calmly. "Win the fight where we couldn't."

You immediately ended the call, slamming the phone into the desk before the rush of air slammed through the emergency doors. Feathers circled around you, grabbing hold of your clothes and carrying you inches from the floor. Hawks entered the lobby, his now featherless wings bearing the scarred tissue left behind from his injuries years ago. His eyes stared into yours, grabbing hold of your chin to force your gaze into his.

"Thought you could outsmart me Pidge?" He queried with a teasing grin. "You almost had me."

"Almost," you emphasized. "I still had you going."

"Yes, but you can't rely on your bluffs forever. Like I said, your games are getting old." His lips closed in on yours, feeling his breath wash over the skin. He was teasing now. You couldn't tell what your body felt - disgusted, revolted, or was that old flame being ignited again, even if it were a glimpse into what he used to be before his mind went mad.

"So, are you going to tell me who you were talking to?" He asked, catching you off guard. "I could be jealous if you gave me the reason why."

You swallowed, raking through your mind on your response. You didn't account for him eavesdropping the breath of your last words on the phone call. Thankfully, he wouldn't have been able to discern the words you spoke, but lying about the phone call wasn't an option.

Hawks was only met with a silent tongue.

"Aw Pidge, we shouldn't be keeping secrets from each other. Trust goes both ways, am I right?" He cooed with a grin. "How about this? You don't have to tell me anything, but I'm going to have to take you with me to a friend of ours for a while. Seems you're not fond of going down memory lane with me here."

His statement was laughable, but to an extent, he was reaching. After he had captured you yesterday, he had brought you to this decrepit building only to relive memories of what once was. It was a day of cat and mouse, one that went astray after your original game plan had shifted drastically. You opened with a King's Gambit by feeding into his plot, offering yourself for capture to make it seem that he had succeeded. However, throughout the day. He had thwarted most of your available moves and outcomes. You read him like a book, but so did he.

With a tug of his feathers, you were pulled towards the front doors, followed by Hawks who kept his steely gaze on you. Perhaps there was a way out from this, you thought, eyeing the outside street lights from your peripherals. You contemplated the notion of what very little options you had left, until you spotted Hawks pull a small bottle from his person, dowsing a cloth in what substance it contained.

Immediately, he shoved the cloth into your face, covering your nose and mouth that filled with a sweet and nutty scent. You struggled recognizing that smell, pulling at the small tugs of Hawks' feathers before your limbs felt limp.

"Now, relax Pidge," reassured Hawks through your drowsiness. "I'll make sure you're comfortable when you wake up."

That sweet scent was the last you recalled before your eyes fluttered shut, your head feeling light from the dizziness. Of course, it was chloroform.

Knocked out and comatose, you dangled from Hawks' feathers before they gently released you into his arms, each one returning to his back while he hissed in pain. His Quirk felt like a nuisance now, each use of it always a burden on his body. His painful cries echoed in the lobby, leaving his wings limp while they dragged along the floor.

"You'll be in safe-keeping Pidge," he remarked, straining his back to lift his wings, spreading them ready for take-off. With a push, his wings lifted himself from the ground with you in his arms, flying into the night sky while he made his way across Musatafu. He aimed towards the salty breeze, finding his way to Endor Docks for another well-deserved appointment.

[lovelyirony]

the much anticipated second part for the amnesia-related fic. 

A wedding ring. 

This doesn’t mean that he and Tony are married except that he hasn’t seen Tony with a wedding ring and he hasn’t mentioned a wife and he doesn’t sound like he has a wife and if Rhodey-if Jim had a wife, then wouldn’t he know about her? Wouldn’t they have met by now? He may not know Tony yet, but he doesn’t think that he would be that cruel. 

“Colonel Rhodes-” 

“Friday, don’t,” Jim says, swatting at the air. “What-why did you hide that from me?” 

“Sir believed it would be best,” Friday answers, tone almost quieter. “He...wasn’t sure that you would understand.” 

“I don’t understand,” he says. “Why would I marry him of all people? He’s not exactly my type.” 

“Since I am a learning program, I cannot say for sure. Humans do a lot of illogical things.” 

He’s trying to wrap his head around it and avoid Tony at the same time. 

Friday won’t let him see any wedding pictures, not until he remembers more. 

- 

Even though he’s been (mostly) successful at avoiding Tony for about a week and a half, the man is still so nice. 

He’s still operating under the assumption that Jim has no idea that they’re married, and he does stuff like leave out a cup of coffee and offer breakfast up or ask if he wants pizza for dinner.

Jim reads too much into it. 

And he doesn’t know why, because it’s not like anything has really changed, except for the fact that Tony won’t call him Rhodey. 

Jim gave him permission to, saw how much it killed him with every correction and every reminder. Told him “you can call me Rhodey, if you want.” 

And he doesn’t. 

Tony never does. 

He still almost says it, but Jim is quicker on the tongue, and he doesn’t make a move to try to push any memories at all. 

(Even though he remembers how happy Tony was to hear that memory about grocery shopping and Dum-E’s code source.) 

He does want to remember. He wants to remember why he apparently married Tony and was genuine about it, why Pepper and him are best friends and never were anything more, why he’s...why he’s so different from what he wanted. 

-

Tony knows that Jim’s acting differently. He’s not sure why. He’s not sure he wants to know why, because that might complicate everything. 

And he doesn’t want another thing to be wrong. Everyone’s walking on eggshells around him except for the one damn person that probably should be, but Rhodey’s never been good at following rules. (But he’s good at fooling people.) 

Pepper talks to Tony a lot. Asks him how he’s doing, if there’s anything she can do. 

Repair someone’s memory is a little bit outside of her area of expertise. 

“It’ll be okay,” she says, putting her tiny hand over his. “Things will work out.” 

They both know that in Tony’s life, luck has never been quite what it seems. Or existent at all, at times. 

-

Ironically, it’s their anniversary of the wedding when Jim remembers something else. It actually comes in the form of looking in the fridge and not finding his apples. 

“Quit leaving honey-crisp off of the list just because you don’t like them you asshole,” he calls to Tony. 

Tony almost yelps. 

“Out of everything in your life and that’s what you remember? Your stupidly sweet apples?” 

“Are you gonna get them?” 

“Why don’t you come with me?” Tony asks, “just so that you can get your apples and maybe get out of the house for once.” 

“Hmph. Fine,” Jim answers. “Where’s my coat?” 

“Uh...” Tony trails off, trying to find the words. “Third peg on the...right, I think?” 

“You’ve known me for years, and you don’t know where my coat is?” 

Rhodey is always the one to hang up his coat, and then put his arms out for Tony’s. 

“To be fair, I am important and fancy and a big deal,” Tony scoffs. “Come on, go get your coat and then I’m going to show you what horrible things you buy from the store.” 

“It’s not that bad. And what, you don’t like good apples?” 

“As sour as can be, sourpatch. As sour as can be.” 

-

Grocery shopping with Tony is...interesting. He didn’t think it would take so long. 

“This is why you don’t usually come,” Tony teases him. “I take so long and you end up sitting in the car and cursing at Pepper or Happy about how much time I spend dedicated to snack-judging.” 

“And I put up with that?” 

“You do,” Tony says, grabbing the cart. “Because you love me and you deal with a lot worse from me.” 

“Like what?” 

“Best not to talk about it,” Tony says. “We’re in public after all, honey.” 

“Ugh, boo,” Rhodey teases. “Give me the list. I bet I can speed-run this.” 

“How? Technically, you don’t think you’ve ever been to this store before!” Tony exclaims with a gigantic, shit-eating grin. 

“Way to rub it in you bastard,” he says with a laugh. “Now come on, I wanna see what kind of salad you think we’re gonna get.” 

“Not you thinking you’re going to be eating junk food,” Tony sighs. 

“I lost my memory!” 

“That would’ve worked, like, two weeks ago. Now I know better.” 

Grocery shopping is...fun. They make fun of foods and different products, and Tony shows him which things he might like. 

“I like...I like fruit salad?” 

“Yes, yes you do Rhodey-dear,” Tony says. “Your favorite thing in the world for fruit.” 

“Seems suspicious.” 

“You’ll have to try it again, then.” 

Rhodey watches him as they’re shopping. He’s easy to be around, honestly. He has that sort of energy that makes you feel like he’s just happy to be in that moment. 

Tony also has very questionable taste in everything. 

“Quinoa?” 

“What? You’ve eaten it before! It’s not your least favorite thing that I’ve cooked?” 

“How is it not? Is it because I’m old?” 

“No, not because you’re old,” Tony scowls. “When you’d come back from the service, you’d eat literally anything I put in front of you. I once gave you a block of cheese and you just sat there. Eating it.” 

“There’s no way I did that.” 

“You did! Ask Pepper, she has a picture of it!” 

He goes back to quiet after that, remembering the picture. 

-

Jim isn’t even sure he wants to bring it up. He’s not even sure if he could love Tony again, and somehow that thought makes his head hurt. 

He knows that apparently, he fell in love once. 

So he needs answers. 

-

Jim had talked to his parents, but he hadn’t really had an opportunity to talk about anything important. Try as he had to get more information out of them, they weren’t giving much up, except for parts about his military achievements and funny stories that he’s written to them about. 

When he gets back home and he sees Mama, she knows. 

“Come here baby,” she says, putting him into her arms. “Let me answer your questions.” 

“Why him?” 

Mama laughs, grinning up at him from her place on the couch. 

“You reacted like this when you first started rooming together, too. I was worried that I’d be involved in a court case for attempted murder!” 

“And you weren’t?” 

“No,” Mama answers. “Instead, I get no phone call from you for three weeks, until the day before your holiday break started, and you told me that you were bringing who you used to call ‘the biggest nuisance since fruit flies’ home to Thanksgiving.” 

“Why did I...why did I bring him?” 

“I didn’t get that answered until he fell asleep,” she says. “I’m making you some coffee, alright dear?” 

“Okay, so long as I get an answer.” 

“So impatient,” she mutters as she makes her way to the kitchen, Jim following. 

He watches how easily his mom pours the coffee, and remembers in a brief flash that Tony always would bring the fancy, flavored creamer to the holiday events. 

“Oh come on,” Tony said. “You have gotten too used to my kindness, and there’s no reason to stop being kind. Besides, remember last year when you nearly cried because I bought creamer from the store? Yeah, not having a repeat of that.” 

“And would that be so bad?” he teased Tony, wrapping an arm around his waist, and-

He blinks. 

That was...that was definitely a new kind of memory. 

“James, are you alright?” His mother is looking at him, and maybe she knows, maybe she doesn’t know that he just remembered something. He’s honestly not sure. 

“Uh, yeah. Fine. I’m good.” 

Mama looks across the room, smiling. 

“He was a timid little thing when he got here. Fixed up the washing machine when it broke, just in time. Nearly wore a suit to dinner, said you didn’t tell him what kind of ‘casual’ we were going for...” 

He snorts as he slowly remembers that one. 

“What do you mean you didn’t mean a suit?!” Tony had wailed, gripping Rhodey’s shirt. “You said I had to dress nice!” 

“I meant literally anything but your Black Sabbath shirt!” 

“Why would I have worn my Black Sabbath shirt? Your mom would probably think I was a Satanist!” 

They both look at each other for a moment, and Rhodey’s the first one to break and laugh. 

“Listen you idiot, it won’t be so bad. We can just ditch the coat, ditch the tie, and you’ll be...okay. A bit nicer than most of us, but hey. That’s what I get for not telling you that suits are weird.” 

“Suits are not weird, you’re just uneducated in what is sophisticated,” Tony says, turning his nose up as Rhodey rolls his eyes. 

“Oh yeah, sure, because knowing which one is the dessert spoon is going to help me save people abroad. My bad.” 

Tony looks back at him, and his heart skips a beat. It does. Really, it does. 

It almost feels like someone’s reading back to him what he already knows at this point. 

His mom squeezes his hand, smiling. 

“You remember at least some of it, don’t you?” 

“Well...uh, yeah? I-I do.” 

“Does Tony know that you know that you’re...married?” 

“No,” Rhodey says. “I know some, but not enough.” 

“Give him a chance,” she says. “And get back home, I’m sure he’s missing you.” 

Rhodey embraces his mother, and prepares for the drive home. 

- 

Being missed is a weird concept to deal with. 

He also did not exactly think of that. So he’s currently driving back and checked his phone to seven missed calls from Tony, three from Pepper, and one text from Happy that simply reads “lol ur dead hahaha good luckkkkk” 

Well shit. 

Tony, understandably is pissed and scared and a tad upset. 

Not a tad. 

“Where were you?” He says as soon as Rhodey appears back in the kitchen. Tony’s hands wander close, and he almost leans in. 

Almost. 

“I was visiting my parents,” he responds. “Sorry, forgot to text.” 

“Please remember next time, your-well, Tony’s annoying when you leave,” Pepper says. 

(Okay Rhodey doesn’t know how they got away with this for so long, it’s really, really obvious that they’ve been covering it up.) 

“I will,” Rhodey says. “Did I miss anything?” 

“I’ve elected that we’re going to cook tonight,” Tony declares. “I am absolutely sick to death of takeout, and I’m pretty sure that with your lack of knowledge on recipes now, I have you beat in the kitchen.” 

“I can still read recipes, you dumbass. Besides, I just remembered your stupid ‘bake’ hack for your stupid casserole dish, so...” 

“Out of everything, and that’s the thing you remember today?!” 

“Well, I also remembered that apparently you wore a suit to my house for Thanksgiving!” 

Tony stops. 

“What else you remember from that, or was it just that?” 

He doesn’t want to say anything in front of Pepper, doesn’t want to say anything just yet. 

“I remember that you were weird about your suit!” 

Tony deflates a bit, but still smiles. 

God, he looks gorgeous. 

Rhodey blinks. Shakes his head out of the thought.

“So. What are we cooking?” 

- 

Tony and cooking is a very interesting concept because it shouldn’t work. 

He never stops moving, can lose interest quickly, and Rhodey would think that he could burn water. 

But he doesn’t. Tony hums along to music, and he tells him all about his favorite songs and why. 

It’s not any rock music, any heavy metal. 

“I don’t listen to that all the time,” Tony says. “You always think I do!” 

“Oh right, because someone who personally has Angus Young’s number just casually isn’t someone who listens to the band all the time, sure,” Rhodey says sarcastically. 

Tony grins, and it’s probably the best damned thing he’s seen all day. 

His heart zings at the realization that Tony smiling is what makes him smile now, what makes him want to stay and learn so much more about how they came to be, what they’ve done together. 

-

Dinner is fun. Tony tells him all about college and what they used to do, and what Rhodey had done. 

Memories are coming back easier. 

“You totally emailed the professor really petty responses!” Tony cries, laughing. 

“It wasn’t that petty,” Rhodey said, huffing. “He was an asshole anyway, he hated whenever we would come late because we wanted coffee, and your order was too complicated!” 

“It wasn’t that complicated!” 

“Oh I’m sorry, them having it written down behind the register for when you come in?” 

“Oh, like they didn’t have a description of you.” 

“Yeah, as your long-suffering companion,” Rhodey teases. 

“You’ve always been,” Tony says. “Because you’re the best.” 

Rhodey stops stirring the pot for a moment. 

“Rhodey? What is it?” 

“I...” 

Tony stands there, grinning. He’s nervously fidgeting, and it’s his move to say the vows. 

“You know, I wasn’t ever sure you’d be up to marrying someone like me,” Tony confesses. “Especially since I almost burned down our dorm room one time.” 

“Wasn’t just one time,” Rhodey teases. “But carry on.” 

“You loser,” Tony says. “Even now, interrupting my heartfelt moment.” 

There’s a ripple of laughter from the small crowd that’s gathered. Rhodey smiles at him, feels tears prick up around his eyes. 

“But I knew that I loved you ever since you would always buy my favorite ramen even though you hated it, and you were the one to get the pizza when I was sad. I knew I wanted the chance of seeing you every day, coming home to you at the end of the day. You’re home, Rhodey. You’re it. No one else could ever possibly hold a candle compared to you.” 

Rhodey startles, looking at Tony. 

“I...I remember. I remember!” 

“Remember what?” Tony asks cautiously. 

(He can’t be let down. Not again.) 

“You smashed cake in my face at our wedding!” Rhodey yells. “And we got married! We got married! Where the fuck is my ring?” 

Tony laughs, scooping Rhodey into a hug. 

“I can’t believe you remember.” 

“Well I was bound to at some point,” Rhodey says. “I can be smart, doofus.” 

“Don’t call me ‘doofus’ during an emotional outburst you absolute nimrod!” 

“I’ll call my husband whatever I want,” he teases, “although I still wanna know where my ring is.” 

“Come with me and get it,” Tony says. “I hid them in my room, just in case.” 

It’s all coming back, the steps they take, the way that Tony supports him as he moves slower. 

Iron Man, for one. War Machine the next. The dates they went on, the proposal. 

The rings are simple. They’re also not wedding rings. 

The class rings. 

Rhodey remembers getting them, remembers getting his initials and Tony’s on the inside, remembers how Tony made some “adjustments” after they received them. 

“You know that you got me,” Tony had told him. 

It slides on, and it feels right. Feels like something was missing. 

He looks up at Tony, smiling. 

“Show me the pictures, Tony.” 

- 

Pepper walks in to find Rhodey absolutely terrorizing Tony about the decor choices from the reception. 

“So I agreed with red and gold? I had no problem with it?” 

“Well, I did do some major convincing, so...” 

“What does that mean?!” 

"You’ll remember later and be sad,” Pepper says. “Or happy. But please don’t tell me if you remember it.” 

“You loved the color scheme,” Tony says. “Because you love me!” 

“Now I am doubting,” Rhodey declares. “I loved you enough to have those colors?” 

“You lost a bet, Boss,” Friday interjects. “That’s why there were those themes.” 

“Friday,” Tony whines. “Why snitch on your creator like this?” 

“I am not programmed to have loyalty, Sir.” 

Rhodey laughs, taking Tony’s hand in his. 

“Well, I guess I’ll still love you. Even if our wedding theme was weird.” 

“It wasn’t that weird!” 

-

It takes about another month before all of the memories are all back to normal, and in that time Rhodey learns (and relearns) a couple of things: 

1.) The best feeling in the world is waking up to Tony, who sleeps very lightly and also wacked Rhodey in the face a total of ten times. (That’s not a new thing, he remembers.) 

2.) He special-orders peppermint-flavored coffee creamer. 

3.) Tony was lying when he said that Rhodey’s new favorite movie was The Goonies. 

(He mostly forgave him for that one.)