#mood kayo

[nobbykun]

Artist - 日野てる子 (Hino, Teruko) Song - 夏の日の想い出 (Natsu No Hi No Omoide) [Eng. "Memories Of Summer Days"] Release Date - January 1965

Listen 🎶

https://rumble.com/v5ch5gj-teruko-hino-natsu-no-hi-no-omoide.html

My blog: Showa Music Library https://nobbykun.tumblr.com/

[derders]

Yung Ang stressful ng work dahil sa holidays, idagdag pa Ang mga seniors mo na iba iba Ang turo sayo pero kailangan mo paring ikalma ang sarili mo at maging happy lang 🙂

[ssivinee]

✧Falling Fast✧

Huh Yunjin x Dancer! F Reader:  Seo Y/n is a well-known dancer known as the “Cool Dancer with a Pretty Face,” the hype surrounding her after the dance show led to a spike in her career, choreographing for more groups or being their group’s background dancer. One of which is HYBE. What she doesn't expect is falling for Huh Yunjin in the process.

Word Count: 2k

Note: Bolded words are when they talk in English btw. This was written before even SWF 2. THAT'S HOW LONG ITS BEEN IN MY DAM DRAFTS. I needed a break from writing from the SWF girlies a lil😭. Anyways enjoy na lang kayo.

This one also doesn't have a tag list bc its my first time writing for Yunjin, BUT if you want to be added to one in the future for lesserafim or any other idol just lmk! [repeat from Seo Y/n mood board]

Character Vision Board

Quintessential was an upcoming dance crew formed only 4 months before the first season of SWF, but now, after the show, they’ve become one of the more well-known groups. Now, this didn’t come with ease. Being a 99’ liner, the youngest out of all the leaders, and being in the middle of her crew’s age group caused Y/n to feel the need to prove herself repeatedly on the show, but it clearly paid off.

Following the show, you successfully launched your very own studio, and the buzz generated around it was truly immense. With the remarkable achievements of "Q.Essence Dance Academy," it quickly became a strong contender among prominent dance studios, rivaling the likes of 1Million and JustJerk.

"Y/n unnie!~" Iseul, the youngest dancer on the team, calls out as you walk down the wide corridor. Concerned, you stop in your tracks. "What's wrong? Are you hurt?" Your panic intensifies as Iseul's worried cries catch your attention. You quickly inspect the girl, scanning her body for any signs of injury and even spinning her around a few times just to be thorough. "No, but I do have some news!"

Y/n cringes slightly in response to the younger dancer's high-pitched shrieks, her hand waving in the air to dismiss the sound. With a mixture of concern and impatience, she urges, "What's going on? Just tell me, please." Her eyebrows furrow as she waits for more information, her curiosity piqued by the urgency in the young dancer's voice.

"HYBE sent us an email saying they want us to be their background dancers. And they want you to help choreograph for the group!" Iseul's eyes shine excitedly as she clutches Y/n's arms and bounces up and down with joy. Y/n's face lights up, but she can't help but ask, "That's great! But which group?"

“Ah, Le Sserafim.”

Y/n felt a tremendous sense of accomplishment as she stood within the Hybe building. It had taken weeks of painstaking choreography adjustments for the 'Unforgiven' album, rigorous scrutiny by the company to ensure its quality, and her dedicated work on specific parts for the background dancers. But today marked a momentous occasion as Quintessential was about to rendezvous for their long-awaited practice session with Le Sserafim. The anticipation and excitement in the air were palpable, culminating in all the hard work and dedication that had led to this day.

In the renowned Hybe dance studio, anticipation ran high among the gathered dancers. Each of them was engrossed in refining their movement; an atmosphere of focused preparation filled the air. As they practiced, the studio door swung open, and in walked a group: the manager, the main choreographer, and the members of Le Sserafim.

"Hello," a chorus of polite bows and warm greetings fill the room as everyone acknowledges each other. The atmosphere is charged with a sense of anticipation.

"Girls, these are the dancers you'll be collaborating with for this comeback!" The introduction of the main choreographer takes everyone by surprise, and all eyes turn towards Y/n. "The choreographer of your dance is a part of this team as well, so please don't disappoint her."

Stepping forward with a confident smile, Y/n bows respectfully before the five members of Le Sserafim. "Hello, my name is Seo Y/n. Please take care of me."

"We know who you are," Eunchae, her voice tinged with excitement, responds. "We're honored to work with you," Chaewon adds, punctuating her words with a deep bow, and the rest of the girls follow suit.

The team starts to assemble, and Y/n, her eyes gleaming with anticipation, encourages them, "Now, show me what you've got." The room brims with excitement as dancers and idols prepare to merge their talents in a creative collaboration.

The past few days have been full of enjoyment for Y/n, but this was mainly due to one person.

Huh Yunjin.

At first, she found the girl’s dance impeccable, down to the detailing Yunjin paid attention to, her charisma, and her overall swag. With the time spent with all the members, she even found her personality alluring as well.

How Yunjin would suddenly burst out in English, her contagious laughter, the loud laughs and yells. Everything about her made practicing entertaining and easy for Y/n.

It was currently 10 pm and team practice was beginning to end. Everyone was already headed home while Y/n, Yunjin, and the other members were only heading out. “Chaewon unnie, can I stay for a bit? I wanna get Y/n unnie to help me with certain parts.”

“Fine, but text me when you’re coming home, and stay safe!” The leader says as they leave the room. “You need my help? You’ve been acing the choreography though? I don’t think there is anything else I can do at your amazing level.” Yunjin laughs at the girl, finding her usual comments sweet.

Yunjin noticed these things about Y/n, how she praised everyone with sincerity, helped whoever needed one on one practice, and the pretty smile she always had on her face while dancing. Yunjin not only saw Y/n’s passion for dancing in her smile but in her eyes as well. She even accommodated Yunjin’s habits and began speaking in English sometimes, which apparently she was fluent in.

This became a bit of an issue for the idol though.

Focusing during practice was on hard mode every time Y/n was within 5ft of her vicinity. There was no doubt, the dancer was as gorgeous as everyone says, and the camera of SWF or even Tiktok didn’t do her justice. Yunjin couldn’t help but stare at her throughout the several practices.

“So what do you need help with then?” Y/n began to take off her sweater which revealed the cropped tank top she wore, showing off her toned body. As per usual, Yunjin’s brain starts buffering but she keeps her composure. “The shimmy in the second verse, I don’t really know how to make it less awkward.”

“Well, let’s fix that then.” Y/n turns on the music at the part and Yunjin shows off the move multiple times in certain ways but she never got it in the way she wanted it to look. “Okay, let’s try tensing the shoulders a little more. You want more control over the shimmy so it doesn’t look too messy.” Yunjin shows the move again and changed it accordingly but the dancer still saw the stiffness.

“Yunjin, I said tense up your shoulders, not your whole body,” Y/n giggles at the girl’s face after her comment. “Unnie~ Help me~, Yunjin whines with a slight pout on her face.

"Okay, here,” Y/n suddenly stand right behind Yunjin’s body, placing her hands on the idol’s hips. “Relax the waist and hips but stiffen the legs.” Yunjin’s body begins to go stiff feeling Y/n’s warm hands on her waist. They felt strong and firmly wrapped around her. “Yunjin-ah?”

“Oh yeah, sorry.”

Yunjin does the move again with Y/n’s hands still in place and she looks much more secure in the move. Y/n lets go and tells her to do the move again without her hands as support and Yunjin nails it. “Look at you go,” Y/n tells her, smiling. “Only because of your help.”

“No not just because of me Yunjin, you’re already an amazing dancer. You just needed a little push.”

“Thanks, unnie,” Yunjin hugged the girl and Y/n felt her heart racing a little as Yunjin’s face was super close to hers.

Her eyes flicker down to Yunjin’s lips quickly, which didn’t go unnoticed. “Come on, let me drive you home. It’s getting too late for you to go alone,” Yunjin’s face began burning up as the comment was accommodated with a kiss on the cheek. “Sure, let’s go.”

"Yah, Yunjin ah! You've been spacing out a lot recently," Sakura tells the girl who blankly stared at the dance studio's mirror, feeling shocked at the sudden call out to her.

"Shit," she mumbles. "Sorry guys, there's too much on my mind right now."

"You wanna talk about it?" Chaewon looks at her worryingly but Yunjin hesitantly nods. She knew the best way to get it off her mind was to find a resolution and it would be easier with the member's input.

"So what's this about?" Kazuha asks as all of them sit down on the floor. It was currently the night before the comeback showcase and the girls were finalizing details and facial expressions. "It uh... about Y/n unnie."

"Wait did she do something to you?" Sakura intervenes, worried for the younger but this makes Yunjin go frantic. "No, no! It's just that, I think I might be catching feelings for her," she mumbles towards the end, but everyone heard loud and clear. First, the girls were silent, just looking at each other which made Yunjin nervous.

But that was followed with squeals of happiness.

"Wait this is a big deal unnie," Eunchae tells her, "Korea is progressing but I can't say it's progressing quick enough on this topic."

"Ay~, the public doesn't have to know. Privacy is key in relationships so it shouldn't matter too much," Sakura tells her, almost as if she's giving advice to all of them. "Kkura unnie is right, as long as you're happy, we'll support you in any decision you make," Chaewon says, rubbing the girl's back as support.

This gives Yunjin courage, "Okay, I know what I have to do."

The next day, everyone was backstage, getting ready for the showcase. All the girls were in their makeup chairs getting pampered up, but Yunjin couldn't hide her nervousness due to her plans.

This causes her to pace around the room from time to time, not knowing if she's making the right call. What if it ruins their friendship? What if she doesn't like me back? What if she doesn't like women?

These were all the thoughts running through her head.

"Yunjin-ah, don't worry about it too much, I'm sure she likes you too." Sakura tells the girl as she eats a snack. "True, I've seen the way Y/n unnie looks at you," Kazuha says, unknowingly calling you out.

That statement in itself makes Yunjin's head turn, almost giving herself major whiplash, "What do you mean by that?"

"Her eyes look like they have stars every time she looks at you. It's cute. It looks like they twinkle," Kazuha tells them as she takes a sip of her drink. "She stares at you a lot too, unnie," Eunchae tells them her observations.

"Really?

"Really," all of them reply.

The showcase had finally ended, and it was a massive success. Le Sserafim couldn't talk to the dancers too much because the time was too short. Everything had to be quick, from backstage to performing for the next few hours.

This didn't stop Yunijin and Y/n from interacting, though. When everyone walked out on stage, Yunjin couldn't help but notice how good Y/n looked in all back. Given that's what the dancer wore almost all the time, it never disappointed her, to say the least.

Y/n gave her a little wave before heading on, which made her even more nervous to perform, but she did terrific regardless.

"Guys, I'll be right back!" She tells the members, heading out of their waiting room, with everyone telling her, "Good luck!" She leaves with a singular rose and note in hand, but as she makes a left turn after the long hallways, she sees Y/n coming while holding something behind her and a small jewelry box in the other hand.

This makes Yunjin sulk a little, 'looks like she was gonna give that to someone.’

"Hey, unnie!" Trying to sound like her perky self. "Oh Yunjin, hey."

"Where were you heading to?" Yunjin asks the girl, heart aching a little without knowing your answer. "Actually, I was going to your team's waiting room," Y/n nervously rubs the back of her neck while Yunjin's eyes begin to sting a little, 'So she likes one of my members?'

"Well, technically I was gonna go talk to you."

Yunjin's head raises in surprise to see the girl revealing a giraffe plushie. "I wanted to give these to you, but it seems like you're a bit busy too, so I'll let you go," Y/n says disappointingly as she notices the flower and note in her hand. "Wait, unnie!"

Y/n turn around and sees Yunjin closer to her, "This is for you."

If Y/n could run in embarrassment right now, she'd probably be a mile away already. Her heart was beating too fast, and she was worried Yunjin would hear it, but the idol's heart was even louder, making Y/n smile. "I wanted to tell you I liked you for a while," the older tells her while handing over a gift, making them switch the items they held.

"I always thought dancing was the only thing that could make me happy. Turns out you do, too." Yunjin blushes harshly at her words, and she can't even hide them fast enough, which causes Y/n to giggle at her. "I've liked you for some time as well, unnie. I was too afraid to tell you cause I didn't know if you liked women. I mean, you're also very pretty, so I'm sure you had many suitors. I had to talk to my members to make sure I was pre-," before Yunjin could even continue her ranting, her lips were met with the feeling of warmth and pillows.

Eyes wide open, Yunjin couldn't even fathom the thought of you kissing her, but here she was, beginning to melt at the touch of your lips. As they pull away, Y/n hugs her as they return to the Le Sserafim waiting room. "You were rambling, dummy," The dancer tells her with a quick peck on the head, making Yunjin pout.

As Y/n laughs at the reaction, Yunjin tells her, "Can I kiss you again? Your lips tastes like strawberries." The two smile at each other.

"How about we save that when I take you out on a date?"

If Yunjin couldn't blush any harder, she thought wrong. "I can get with that."

[edutainer2022]

A cold, vicious cyclone caught me unawares in the middle of the city the other day, right as I decided it was too hot for the coat. So, naturally, Scott gets under the weather in NYC, quite literally (and is being a stubborn doofus about it). It's an Earth and Sky fluff, but in the end, John decided he wanted in, so Earth and Star have a good hearty chat too. Virgil and John are being very good brothers. Absolutely nothing hurts. A greatful boop to @idontknowreallywhy, @astranite and @janetm74 for soft fabrics and Top Gun featuring.

UNDER THE WEATHER

The perks of living on a tropical island included not only it being remote, secluded and perfect to house a state-of-the-art rescue operation. It was also the whole being TROPICAL deal. Whenever one stepped out - it was reliably warm. The downside of living on a remote tropical island was losing the habit to navigate the regular four-seasons weather. Or the fickle New York City climate.

Truthfully, Scott didn't miss it much. Of course, he'd be fondly nostalgic about Kansas and snow slides, or, would occasionally get caught up in the inherent wistful mood of early NYC fall. But he definitely didn't miss THIS - being caught up in the icy torrent and orange warning winds two blocks away from the Tracy Tower. In nothing but his dress shirt and slacks.

They were at Tracy Industries headquarters with Virgil for the better half of the week. Virgil was involved in pre-screening the latest batch of R&D pitches, before they would move on to Brains and John for the final approval and production. Scott was held hostage by the Department of Finance for budget amendments and redistribution.

When the opportunity presented itself, well into the afternoon, to escape his own untimely death by paperwork or premeditated murder of a high ranking employee, Scott ran for the hills, slipping expertly beneath the radar of Kayo's handpicked security detail.

His underlying motive was quite noble - to walk to that coffe-shop Virgil liked and get his brother and himself some decent coffee. Virgil loved coffee and Scott loved Virgil - the rationale for his sortie was ironclad. Of course, pursuing exclusively immaculate fraternal care didn't provide for ditching his earpiece and wrist com. The hasty retreat also meant his designer (and more importantly in his current predicament - woolen) jacket got left hanging on the back of his chair by the bay window. He forgot this wasn't Tracy Island, the sun outside the window and climate control in the offices and their penthouse at the top of the Tracy Tower lulled his vigilance. And now, without a comm to get a timely warning from Eos or to call a cab (or the security SUV with a profound apology, or One from the landing pad on the roof), Scott was caught in the sudden onslaught of a cyclone.

The prudent thing to do would be to go back to the Tower. So, of course, Scott decided in favor of the opposite and broke into a run for the rest of the distance to the coffee place. The relentless laws of physics - speed and resistance - made sure he was soaked through the very last thread of clothing on his body and chilled to the bone by the time he got there.

His hair plastered to the forhead, the supershiny gel having lost the round with the freezing downpour, rivers of water drained down from the top of his head all the way past the suit slacks and dress shoes splashed in muck. There were poodles of water INSIDE his shoes. His socks were wet. His shirt was drenched. The squelching of the fabric as he walked up to the counter suggested he was wet EVERYWHERE. Yuk! That, at least, he didn't know as he was getting numb all over from the cold.

Scott was aware he probably looked like a wet stray cat. It was that or his shirt became see-through in the rain - as a barrista with a cute smile tried to waive his fee for the coffee. Unacceptable! He paid for two extra large, extra strong brews,  and rushed out, stifling a sneeze. Must have been the shirt, since one of the take-away cups had a phone number scrolled on the side. Which was a small consolation, as he broke into a jog again, making his way back through the raging elements.

***

The Tracy Industries front desk in the lobby, thankfully, didn't detain him, so he snuck into the elevator, not making eye contact with anyone. It was getting increasingly hard to hold the coffee cups - his hands were numb and shaking, and his teeth were clattering in time with full body shivers. Scott was sure he had hit the executive floor button, but the elevator made no stop, gliding all the way up to the private penthouse. Figures. He'd probably earned himself a lecture not only from the on site security team, but from John as well.

The door slid open on his approach across an antechember and he was welcomed in the hallway by a wall of flannel presided by furrowed black brows. Scott brandished the procured coffee cups like a shield, instinctively. He would sound more nonchalant if he were not stuttering from the cold.

"Hey, Virg, I got your favorite coffee!"

His face muscles were too frozen for a smile.

Virgil was holding a massive towel, or maybe a full body length terrycloth sheet, like an unfurled banner, and appeared completely unmoved by Scott's heroic endeavor.

"How very kind of you! Now step on the rug and strip. I'm not mopping after you!"

Scott looked down and found himself standing, indeed, on one of Gordon's old bright pool towels. It was already soaked halfway through with all the water Scott was dripping. He felt marginally ashamed as the elevator likely sported poodles too. But it was hard to maintain several self-deprecating emotions at once, being that cold and miserable.

The styrofoam cups were tentatively deposited on the glove table. Scott peeled off his soaked dress shirt and shed the trousers more than eagerly, toed off wet (and probably ruined too) shoes. Francesco the designer would bite his head off. But that could wait. He needed something warm off the rack now! A move off the towel was aborted, however, by the reappearance of the Eyebrows over the terrycloth edge.

"Uh-uh! Everything, Scooter! You're NOT wedging your undies behind the shower stall. Again!"

Scott sighed. That was ONE TIME! He was sneaking back past the curfew and tried to conceal evidence. Unsuccessfully, as it turned out. The moment the last wet cloth on him joined the pile on the floor, he was wrapped head to ankles in the sea of soft blue fabric and steered in the general direction of the shower.

"You know the drill! Try to warm up under hot water as long as you can. If you feel lightheaded - yell, I'll be right here."

The scolding shower helped somewhat. He could still feel the freezing grip around his ribs, but his extremities were not as numb anymore, at least. There was a stack of warm sleepwear waiting for him as he stepped out in the cloud of fog. Scott smiled - it was a motley assembly of his own clean trunks and sweatpants, a well-worn soft flannel shirt and a Denver Engineering hoodie, that swapmed his frame. Hair toweled off and curling every which way, he was mostly ready to venture back out into the colder world, but felt dead tired.

There was a nest of throw pillows and a blanket, assembled on the couch, unfolded to full length, in the living room. Scott made an immediate beeline for it and tugged the blanket around his shoulders, trying to fold his feet beneath as well. The shivers were crawling back. Virgil emerged from a door that was decidedly neither Scott's nor his own room, carrying a pair of fluffy bright orange socks and an extra comforter.

***

After some gentle, yet determined, coaxing, the orange socks were tugged onto Scott's icy cold feet and a second blanket was tucked snuggly around him. Virgil settled by his side against a couple of snatched pillows, pondering idly that they would need to get a spare weighted blanket for the penthouse too. They would also owe John more socks. The Scott-sized frozen burrito shuffled closer and Virgil wrapped an arm around his wayward big brother, offering more of his body warmth. The chills worried Virgil. Scott was fit and healthy, but he was chronically exhausted and hadn't been exposed to cyclones without IR-grade water-proof gear, or at least a raincoat, in a while.

"So... you wanna watch Top Gun?"

It was a rhetorical question, but Scott's face immediately shot up, beaming with a thousand suns. He also did an enthusiastic giant caterpillar wiggle, blanket and all. Virgil thought in that moment his core memory was probably Scott, all bright eyes, gap-teeth smile and dimples, bouncing with excitement and unbridled energy. He wished he got to revisit it more often.

The opening frames rolled on the holoscreen to the sound of the all too familiar Anthem. Virgil finally reached for so hard earned cup of coffee, now reheated, and couldn't contain a snort.

"Aw, Scooter, you actually scored a number for your troubles?"

It was obvious Scott wasn't going to last through the movie - his eyes were droopping and voice slurred, mostly muffled by plaid flannel.

"M'dashin'!"

A smaller hologram appeared at that exact moment on Virgil's comm. John looked way too amused:

"Actually, that's the number of a homeless shelter around the corner from the coffee shop."

Virgil's laughter full on rumbled at that. He raised a hand to ruffle the back of big brother's head:

"Oh yeah, you're a dashing idiot."

"M'cold."

The muffled complain was exemplified by a full body shiver.

"Sure, Scotty! You're a cold, wet, dashing idiot."

There was no protest to that, just a soft, slightly stuffed snore. Virgil adjusted the hold on the now sound asleep biggest brother to snuggle him closer.

***

The F-14A Tomcat was playing chicken with a MiG-28 on the screen. John's hologram lingered. Virgil could tell the space ginger was concerned more than he let on. John finally spoke.

"Is he gonna be alright? Should I cancel his Friday?"

Untamed by the gel, the now dry and fluffy ringlets made it difficult to reach Scott's forhead, but the back of Virgil's hand found the way, careful not to disturb. The skin was cool to his touch, no signs of fever.

"He'll be alright. He just needs to warm up and sleep it off."

He moved to rub a soothing circle over Scott's back as the big brother relaxed deeper into sleep. It was sorely tempting to clear Scott's schedule for the next day and mandate more rest. But Virgil was aware it would pose a risk of Scott, not held down by a cold, hairing off to the island in One, insisting to be back on the roster, if not on TI business. That would be a shame, as a big part of the weekend, Virgil had been looking forward to, was going to see Tosca at the Metropolitan Opera with biggest brother.

John  was still hovering, unconvinced. Virgil siged, but smiled:

"Well, Johnny, unless you want to come down from orbit and join me at the box, I'd rather our reservation to a sold out six months in advance opera didn't fall through."

John looked appropriately appalled and quite earnest:

"I love you more than my life, brother, but I do draw a line at too many people doing too many loud things in a confined space. Call me Johnny and see how often I come down from orbit!"

Virgil stifled a huff of laughter, as Scott shuddered and groaned quietly, but, thankfully, didn't wake up. The warm-up circles over his back and shoulders resumed. Virgil hugged him closer. John shifted attention to the swaddled biggest brother in fond amusement.

"What did you bribe him with, anyway?"

Virgil didn't have the energy to protest.

"Apfelschtrudel from that place Gordon found. And he can preview the R&D projects I selected for Brains, if he gets bored. No call-outs, no reports, no work mail though."

The gazed Virgil fixed on John was full of fair warning. It was John's turn to smile.

"Don't worry. You love watching opera and Scott loves watching us doing what we love. He'll be fine. And locked out of his work accounts, for good measure."

Silence stretched for several moments, interrupted only by Scott's soft snoring.

Virgil looked down on the slumbering brother in his arms, then back at John.

"I wish he did more of what he loves. Just Scott. For himself - not for us, or for the company, or the world."

That wasn't an issue easily solved in a casual conversation through an impromptu movie night. If at all. John knew that too, all too well. The brother in orbit chewed on his lip, lost in thought.

"You could sugget he get coffee in that place again. She's a Hudson Uni postgraduate. Cultural Anthropology."

Virgil was mostly used to John's the Resident Genius thoughts veering in unexpected directions, but the ginger thoroughly lost him there.

"Huh? Who's a postgrad where?"

John rolled his eyes in exasperation commonly reserved to explaining things to the bristling rescuees and a five year old Gordon.

"The barrista that gave Scott a shelter number today. She works part time and volunteers there often. One time she even volunteered at the IR disaster site. Remember, the sinkhole? She seems nice."

Top Gun closing scenes were replaced by assorted social media pages and university profile pages. Virgil gulped.

"John! You can't go doxxing random people!"

John's hologram up in orbit shrugged:

"I have Eos run background checks automatically on anyone who comes in contact with you guys. We can't take any chances!"

There was sound and, sadly, field proved reasoning behind what nearly cost them barely averted tragedy on several occasions. But still... Virgil kept staring at a pretty blond smiling from the holoscreen.

"That gotta be illegal!"

"Only if I get caught."

Turquoise eyes twinkled in nothing remotely resembling remorse. He still didn't cut off the call.

"Do you wanna come down here for the weekend?"

Virgil suddenly felt the need to have more brothers accounted for and within reach. There was hope in the way John actually gave it a thought.

"Only if you don't make me go to the opera. I ordered you pizza, by the way."

A wave of warmth washed over Virgil and he tightened the grip on Scott's frame instinctively.

"You're my favoretest brother not asleep at the moment!"

He was graced with another eyeroll.

"You spend entirely too much time around Gordon. I'll have Eos screen the calls and land the elevator on the Tower tomorrow evening, your time, if there's no major catastrophe."

Virgil resisted the urge to fistpupm in the air. Definitely too much time around Gordon. Another thought occurred to him as he remembered a detail John mentioned when vetting the unsuspecting compassionate barrista.

"Hey, John! Could you..."

"Right ahead of you, brother. An anonymous donation was made to the homeless shelter and free kitchen an hour ago."

And they said Virgil and Scott were uncanny telepathic. Then again, it was to be expected. Anyone who was genuinely kind and considerate to their favorite Idiot, or attempted to course-correct his destruction path, inadvertently gained a lifelong ally in every one of them. Maybe he really needed to nudge Scott to go get more of the good coffee tomorrow. Equipped with an umbrella that time around.

[ediyoonoh]

I Got a Really Big Problem

GreenSchoolBf!Mark Lee x GreenSchoolGf!reader;1.9k words; taglish fic

GENRE: established relationship, smut

WARNING: this fic contains smut (pwp, unprotected sex, fingering, a hint of degrading kink (?), and jealousy sex(?)) and the use of foul language

SUMMARY: Mark has a problem when you tried to make him jealous

A/N: Hi to the anon who requested this! Sorry antagal na nasa drafts ko lang to 🥺 inisip ko pa kasi kung sa’n sa greenschool pwede gawin yung (lam mo na) AHAHAHAH jk. This fic may contain typo and grammatical errors. Anw, I hope you enjoy reading and lemme know your thoughts!

DISCLAIMER: all names, characters, and settings in this work are fictious. Any resemblance are entirely coincidental.

MINORS DNI!!

MASTERLIST

“Sa’n ka right now, Love?” ‘Yan ang chat sa’yo ng boyfriend mong si Mark thirty minutes ago. Malamang ginawa niya ‘to bago sila mag-training sa Razon.

You’re boyfriend is a basketball athlete representing your university. In fact, kilala siya sa campus niyo for his skills, and of course, for his good looks.

Tumungo ka na sa 9th floor ng Razon upang panoorin ang nobyo mo mag-laro, tutal tapos na rin naman ang mga klase mo ngayong araw. Nag-reply ka din sa message niya but you didn't manage to receive a reply back.

“Please hold the elevator!” Narinig mong sigaw ng isang lalaki habang tumatakbo. Nagulat ka naman na kaibigan mo pala ‘to.

“Uy Haechan ikaw pala ‘yan” nginitian mo siya nang makapasok na siya sa elevator.

“Tagal na kitang ‘di nakikita ah, ‘san punta mo?” Tanong ng morenong lalaki sa’yo.

“Mark messaged me a while ago looking for me so I decided to watch him train since I don’t really have anything to do as of now“ you answered.

“Oh that’s great! Because I’m headed there as well to wait for Chenle to finish training. Let’s just go together then.”

»»————-　♡　————-««

Hindi nakuha ni Mark ang bola na pinasa sa kaniya ng teammate niya dahil nakita ka niyang naglalakad papunta sa bleachers. Kasama si Haechan.

Lalo pang na distract ang lalaki nang napansin niya na suot mo ang paborito niyang skirt.

“Sama ng tingin ng jowa mo sakin ah” pang-asar ni Haechan sa’yo. Umamin kasi sa’yo dati si Haechan kaya hindi mapigilan ni Mark na mag-selos tuwing magkasama kayong dalawa.

Pinag-usapan niyo naman ng mag-nobyo na ‘di mo sinagot si Haechan dahil hanggang kaibigan lamang ang tingin mo sa kaniya. You also never get tired reassuring Mark that you love him with all of your heart and that he is and always be your man .

Unfortunately, there are still times na kung saan mas pinapairal ni Mark ang emosyon niya.

“Makita ba naman tayo magkasama ng wala sa oras, you think he’ll be happy?” Sagot mo habang tumabi ka ng upo kay Haechan.

Napansin mo na biglang nag-iba ang timpla ng mood ni Mark. Halata sa kilos niya na mas lalo siyang naging agresibo sa paglalaro at nakasimangot na rin ang mukha niya.

‘Di mo rin mapigilang mag-alala sa boyfriend mo dahil ayaw mo na nag-aaway kayo tungkol kay Haechan, na tropa din naman niya.

“Musta pala sex life nyo ni Mark” nasamid ka sa sinabi ng kaibigan mo sa’yo. How can he ask that in public?

Hinampas mo ng malakas si Haechan sa kaniyang braso, “Tangina ka ang lakas ng boses mo. What if may makarinig sa’yo?”

Nginitian ka lamang ng kaibigan mo pabalik at nang nakita mo ang ekspresyon nito, ah may binabalak na naman ‘tong di maganda.

“Ano na naman ‘yang iniisip mo?” kilala mo na rin kasi si Haechan for him being mischievous and his ideas often lead to disaster.

“Ay alam mo kung anuman ‘yang iniisip mo—” you said to turn him down.

“Let’s make him jealous” Gago talaga.

Lilipat ka na sana ng pwesto upang layuan ang kaibigan mo pero pinigilan ka agad nito, “Wait! Just hear me out, okay? Please?”

Hindi mo naman mapigilan dahil na curious ka na rin sa naisip nito kaya inantay mo na lamang siya sabihin kung ano ang binabalak niya.

“I asked you that question because I had this idea to make him jealous so that you can have this mind blowing sex!” He officially lost his mind.

Tinaasan mo ng kilay si Haechan. “Bakit mo naman naisip ‘yan? You know I don’t want him to get jealous because I don’t want our relationship and your friendship to turn into shit, right?”

“Yeah I understand that part but imagine the sex you’ll have when his driven by jealousy. Mark told me na di kayo masyadong nagkikita because his busy training, so what if mamaya o kapag nagkita na kayo, get him to fuck you to let his jealousy out. I see it as a win-win!” pangungumbinsi sa’yo ng kaibigan mo.

You hate to admit it but you find it hot when Mark is jealous or mad. You also wished for him to be rougher on you when it comes to bed because that really turns you on.

After much thinking, you decided to test Haechan’s theory out. “Okay fine, but it’s on you when things didn’t go as plan.”

“Trust me this will work out! But fine, consequences will be on me if this comes to shit,” pag-reassure sa’yo ng kaibigan mo at inayos ka ng upo sa tabi niya.

Ang hindi mo alam, hindi niyo na kailangan pag-selosin si Mark dahil nakita palang niya kayo nag-uusap mula sa malayo and his blood is already boiling.

»»————-　♡　————-««

Natigil ang pag-uusap niyo ni Haechan noong narinig mong pumito ang coach nila Mark, senyales na break time na ng mga players.

“Papunta na jowa mo dito” bulong sa’yo ni Haechan. Nakatalikod ka kasi sa court kaya ‘di mo napansin na pa-akyat na pala sa pwesto niyo ang nobyo mo.

“Tangina galit ba? Kanina ka pa dikit ng dikit sakin Haechan, for sure inis na inis na ‘yun” pag-aalala mo.

Haechan only smirked at you and noticed his eyes looked at someone. “Uy ‘sup bro?” pagbati ng kaibigan mo sa jowa mo.

Hindi binalik ni Mark ang bati ng tropa niya at tinapik ka nito. “Love?” tawag sa’yo ng lalaki.

“Hi love!” you cautiously smiled at him. Natatakot ka ngayon sa boyfriend mo dahil napaka-cold ng ekpresyon nito pero that shit turns you on.

“I need to talk to you,” Mark simply said before grabbing your arm and pulling you away from Haechan. Nanlaki lamang ang mga mata mo habang sinusubukan hindi matapilok habang pababa ng bleachers.

Tiningnan mo si Haechan habang hinahatak ka ni Mark. Ang tanging nakita mo lamang sa moreno ay ang kaniyang kindat at ang mahinang pagsabi ng “Good luck”.

Dinala ka ni Mark sa ilalim ng bleachers at pinasandal ka sa isa sa mga lockers na nakalagay rito. “What the fuck was that?” tanong sa’yo ng lalaki.

Hindi mo alam ang sagot mo kaya pinili mo na lamang na manahimik.

“You were doing that on purpose, right?” dagdag niya habang humahakbang palapit sa’yo. With the way he’s looking straight into your eyes, you can’t help but to feel small in front of him.

“Answer me love,” he whispered once he’s too close that you can feel his breathe. “I know what game you were playing, love. Intentionally making me jealous while sitting pretty over there wearing my favorite skirt,” he said as he plays with the hem of your skirt.

“Mark…please,” you begged. You weren’t sure what you were begging for but the wetness you feel between your thighs is starting to bother you.

You gasped when Mark suddenly cupped your clothed pussy, feeling all the wetness you were trying to hide. “Aww, is my princess already wet when I didn’t do anything yet?” he mocked at you.

You helplessly nodded at him while holding his wrist. “Please love, do something.” naiiyak mong sambit sa kaniya.

“Hmm…my princess is being naughty today isn’t she? I feel like I need to remind you who can only make you feel good,” he started to push aside your panties and played with your wetness. “But coach only gave us 20-minute break.”

‘Di mo na rin mapigilan masarapan ng pinasok ng lalaki ang dalawang daliri sa loob ng ari mo. “Do you think you can cum for me before I need to head back?” tanong sa’yo ng lalaki sa tenga mo.

“Y-yes Mark, please make me cum” you moaned.

Napapalakas na ang mga ungol mo kaya tinakpan ng nobyo mo ang bibig mo gamit ang kaniyang kabilang kamay. “Gusto mo bang may makahuli sa’tin dito, love? I bet you like that because you’re a freak, huh?” sabi niya habang binilisan ang pag-finger sa’yo.

“Fuck don’t stop Mark” ungol mo sa kamay niya. Nakatulong naman ang kamay na nasa bibig mo upang walang makarinig sa mga ungol mo pero mukhang mahuhuli naman kayo dahil rinig na rinig ang pag-aabuso ng nakakatanda sa puke mo.

Maya-maya, naramadaman mo ng linabasan ka na at ang mga tuhod mo ay nanghina. Hindi ka pa nakaka-recover at nagulat ka nang pinatalikod ka ni Mark and removed your soiled panties. “Tangina ka love, tinitigasan ako sa’yo.”

He lowered his shorts and boxers, just enough to make his hard cock spring free. Naramdaman mo rin na tumusok ito sa iyong pwetan kaya you wiggled your ass as invitation which made him slightly spank on it.

“Fucking slut, so eager to get fucked.” he groaned when he effortlessly inserted his cock to your entrance.

Mark didn’t wait for you to get used to his huge size at sinimulan ka ng kantutin ng malakas. Napahawak ka na rin sa locker sa lakas ng bawat bayo niya.

“Sa lahat ng tao na pwede mo kong pagselosin, kay Haechan pa talaga,” napakagat labi ka na lang nang lalo pa itong nanggigil noong naalala niya ang mga nakita niya kanina.

Naging walang silbi rin ang pagpigil mo sa mga ungol mo nang hinila ng lalaki ang buhok mo kaya napilitan kang itingala ang ulo mo. When Mark saw your face filled with pleasure, he swears to God, he almost came right then and there.

His thrusts never faltered for the next few minutes and his gripped on your hip became tighter. Nakakaramdam ka na ng ngalay pero handa kang tiisin to, lalo na at alam mong lalabasan ka na muli.

Binitawan na ng lalaki ang buhok mo at piniling lamasin ang suso mo. You also started to meet his thrusts halfway kasi alam mong may maghahanap na kay Mark sa ilang sandali.

“Fuck princess, you feel so tight” he groaned.

Nararamdaman na ni Mark na malapit na siyang labasan kaya pinaglaruan na niya ang clit mo upang labasan ka na rin. “Shit Mark, you feel so good,” mahina mong sabi sa kaniya.

Later on, you felt Mark spill his seed inside you and bit your shoulder to refrain himself from being too loud. It didn’t take long for you to hit your climax as well, especially when he didn’t stop playing with your clit.

Pagkatapos niyong magpahinga ng sandali, dahan-dahan ng tinanggal ni Mark ang kaniyang tite sa puke mo at kumuha ng malinis na twalya upang gamitin pampunas ng kaniyang tamod sa hita mo.

Alam mong tapos na ang breaktime ng nobyo mo kaya binilisan mo ang pag-ayos sa sarili mo. Noong sigurado na kayong maayos na lahat, you carefully went out of your spot, ngunit bago siya bumalik sa court, bumulong muna siya sa’yo.

“Akala mo tapos na tayo? Mamaya ka sakin pag-uwi natin, love”

[FIN.]

ediyoonoh '23

[gumnut-logic]

It was pure chance Virgil was with John that day. He could have said it was unexpected, but it would have been a lie. It was only a matter of time before another attempt was made.

John cursed himself for failing to pay enough attention to the probability algorithm.

But it was John who was there when Virgil was attacked. And as it was the first time, it was John who protected his brother.

That first time when John had defended Virgil from the mechas high in the sky above a beached Two, John had lost his wings.

No, not lost, they had been torn from his body, stolen, and it had been Scott and Kayo who had caught both of them.

It had taken so long for John to not quite recover from that incident. Virgil and Brains had given him back the ability to fly, but his white pinions were forever gone, replaced with the finest technological art his brother could create.

John was different in both form and mind after that.

Virgil, whose injuries were less permanent in a physical sense, had not recovered mentally. Virgil was almost as changed as John, despite the healing of his midnight black wings. Something had snapped inside the gentle engineer. He smiled less and was more fragile of mood. John knew he felt guilt regarding what had happened, but no matter what John said, Virgil’s shoulders still bowed under a weight that hadn’t been there before.

So, to have that same brother attacked in the middle of the street by minions of the man who haunted them…

It was the last straw.

These people had hurt them so much, hurt Virgil, Gordon and John himself, and yet, here they were attempting to take even more as if it was simply sport.

John broke.

They were in New York on Tracy Industries business. John had found an error in the financials and needed to speak in-person to the persons responsible. Virgil offered to fly him out in Two and shorten the trip considerably in the process.

It was a good chance to spend some time together. Scott was obviously envious over comms, attending an incident in Colorado, and John was tempted to invite him and the rest of the family out for an evening when they got back. Perhaps they could fly over to Sydney and watch the sunset over the harbour bridge.

But then Virgil was lured by the scent of the local coffee shop. It wasn’t anything unusual. His brother often grabbed one from that particular café when in town.

Virgil jogged down the street as John turned to enter their building.

Again, it was chance. Perhaps if John had walked faster or Virgil a little slower…

The sudden surprise, pain and oblivion that washed over John in that moment was enough to cause him to stagger on the steps. A woman screamed. He looked over to find several men lifting his unconscious brother off the sidewalk.

A van sat with its door open, halting traffic.

John’s wings lifted without thought. Alarm spread to his younger brother thousands of kilometres away on Tracy Island and as one they moved.

John launched from the steps.

His flight was short and sharp and several thousand dollars’ worth of Berluti’s finest handmade shoes made a significant impact on the nearest assailant.

They went down with a yell as John dropped his full weight on the man. One wing stabilised his balance and the other, no longer vulnerable flesh and bone, now lightweight, cahelium-laced metal, impacted hard on a second man.

Another down.

John retracted that wing and lashed out with the other, taking out a third man, all before any of them could react.

Virgil was tumbling towards the ground, as the men carrying him joined him in unconsciousness, and John grabbed at his brother, drawing him close.

That moment of distraction was enough for a gun to appear.

Clutching Virgil to his chest, John spun, crouched and enveloped both himself and his brother in the circle of his wings. Seven and a half metres of wingspan wrapped around them both as that gun fired.

And ricocheted off cahelium spar.

Perhaps there was a reason he had his wings taken from him.

Perhaps there was a cahelium lining to it all.

The gun fired again and John, felt the sharp vibration sing through artificial bones.

Virgil’s hair caught in his nose.

Hurried footsteps.

Profanity.

Someone grabbed at his wings and screamed. No doubt as his hands started bleeding from the razor-sharp edges of those metal feathers.

He held his big brother just a little tighter for the briefest of seconds before curling him up gently on the ground.

A brief touch of fingertips to his temple. Unconscious, Virgil lacked his usual vibrancy and John didn’t even know what had been done to him yet.

Only that he had been hurt.

Again.

Gentle Virgil.

Sunshine Gordon.

His own pain.

And still they wanted more.

A gun cocked.

No.

John spun as he rose, wings spreading out sharp and horizontal forming no less than a lethal whirling blade.

Cahelium feathers met flesh as he moved. The equations for force, velocity and momentum subconsciously calculating exactly what he needed to do to get the result required.

That woman screamed again as the gun fell clattering to the pavement.

Four bodies of varying health joined it.

Both sound and silence communicated medical needs to the trained responder’s ears.

They were ignored as John straightened.

The van’s tyres squealed as it tore off down the street without its target.

Silence fell over everything. Shock freezing traffic and pedestrians alike. Only the groans of the injured and the out-of-sight rest of the city graced the soundscape.

Red dripped off the ends of John’s feathers as he crouched next to his prone brother. Virgil’s pulse was unsteady and he was sporting a bleeding wound on the back of his head. Whatever they had hit him with, they had hit him hard.

Curling him into his arms, John half-folded and gently scooped his wings under his brother. Lifting him smoothly off the ground, he carried him back towards the entrance to their building.

Just as the roar of Thunderbird One tore into the airspace above the street.

Gordon was buzzing at the back of John’s mind, desperate to know what was going on.

Scott’s aggravation was obvious as he dumped One blocking all traffic in front of Tracy Industries’ New York offices.

John turned and carried his big brother out towards the safety of the Thunderbird.

Her pilot seat lowered and Scott was there, concerned eyes, worried words and questions.

But the questions could wait and a hoverstretcher relieved John of his brother’s weight.

John folded his bloodied wings and let them go.

One’s engines roared as they lifted off, but they didn’t manage to drown out John’s heartbeat. The scanner in his hand told him that Virgil would be okay once he recovered consciousness and worked through the concussion that was brewing…

John’s shoulders dropped and he leant over his brother, his hands gripping the side of the docked stretcher enough to whiten his knuckles.

He screwed his eyes shut ever so tight.

The hand that landed on his arm was gentle, but insistent. “Talk to me, John.”

He didn’t open his eyes. “They tried to take Virgil.” A breath. “I didn’t let them.”

Scott shifted beside him, an arm reached around John and drew him close. His head was nudged to Scott’s shoulder and he let himself be pulled into a full embrace, grateful for the comfort.

Scott’s words were little more than breath. “Thank you.”

John opened his eyes at that and turned enough to set eyes on his unconscious brother. Virgil was ever so pale in the overhead lighting in such contrast to his usual animation.

An indrawn breath.

“Never again.” He let that breath out. “God, never again.”

-o-o-o-

[tagsecretsanta]

From @alexthefly

From @alexthefly to @gaviiadastra

FUN AND GAMES NIGHT

The prompts:

A Tracy Island games night;

Something’s cooking in the kitchen;

Put the mess in domestic.

Rating: teen

Content warnings:

Moderate whump (fracture, soft tissue injuries);

Alcohol throughout (no drunkenness);

Flirting, including innuendo and one sex mention;

One instance of swearing.

Other warnings: a bit of Pen & Ink included in this one; hope that's ok.

**********

A familiar combination of thrusters, VTOL and a slightly-delayed sonic boom signalled Thunderbird One's return to the island. Gordon immediately felt his heart-rate leap a hundred beats.

“They’re here! Action stations! Alan, fluff the cushions; Virgil, get the food; Kayo…”

Whatever task Gordon had been about to assign to her fizzled away in a blaze of epic side-eye.

“...just kick back and relax, ok? No biggie.”

He backed away a few steps just to be safe, but his sister seemed satisfied, pointedly putting her feet back up on the coffee table before returning to her romance book. 

Any other day the temptation to comment on her choice of reading material would be far too much to bear, however hazardous to his health such a comment might be, but today he had other things occupying his mind.

“What can I do?” asked John, making to get up just as Virgil - already on his feet - pushed him firmly back down onto the sofa.

“You can stay right there, Mister,” he said, voice full-medic stern. “You know the rules. First night down from Five means no unnecessary moving around.”

John rolled his eyes and muttered something in Russian, but thankfully stayed where he was. 

Gordon flashed the big man a grateful smile on his way past to the kitchen. The last thing he needed right now was a certified space-case causing a danger to himself and others.

Not tonight.

“Shall I get some tunes ready?” Alan had already pulled his tablet out from behind a pillow and started tapping. “I’ve got a great playlist I’ve been working o-”

“Is it video game music?” asked Kayo, not even looking up.

“Yeah?”

“No!” The chorus was unanimous.

“Aww, but it’s not like normal video games. It’s this really cool mix of techno and-”

“NO!”

Alan pouted. “Oh, so I guess you'd all rather listen to Fish-boy’s sea shanties and Europop?”

“Hey!”

Gordon was all ready to defend his frankly impeccable musical taste, but John was clearly not in a mood for bickering.

“EOS, could you put on playlist P3 please?”

“Of course John.”

And with that the room was filled with gentle contemporary music - upbeat but not too raucous, neither intrusive nor dull - ideal for an evening with company. Obviously it was no Wellerman, but it wasn’t half bad. 

“Would you like some ambient lighting as well?”

“Not right now, thankyou EOS” replied John, ruffling Alan’s hair as he sat back down with a huff. “Is everything okay up there? Any calls? I could dial in if you need me?”

“Absolutely not,” said Kayo, an edge of menace in her voice. “You’re staying right where you are. Grandma’s orders.”

John scowled.

“Really John, there’s no need,” continued EOS. “I’m perfectly capable of handling things for one evening.”

Gordon noted the slight drop of his big brother’s shoulders but decided not to tug on that thread just now. Gravity always did a number on John the first night down, and it had been known to make him grumpy and homesick.

Virgil wandered back in carrying a big bucket filled with ice water, bottles of beer, prosecco, and cans of soda. With every step another puddle of ice water sloshed over the side and onto the floor.

“Allie, get a cloth would you? And could someone get some glasses out please? I’m kinda weighed down here.”

Kayo and Alan each grabbed one of John’s shoulders, using them to both pin him down and haul themselves up. The older man started to object, but was distracted by a ping on Alan’s tablet beside him.

“Scott’s on his way up now.”

Oh god oh god oh god. 

Gordon had the sudden and inexplicable urge to dunk his head in the bucket Virgil had just set down, but instead decided to busy himself with robustly re-plumping the chair pillows while bouncing up and down on the balls of his feet.

“So everything’s ready, right? Place is tidy, drinks are out, games are stacked, food’s in hand… Are we all set? Should I open a window? It’s kinda hot in here.” Am I sweating? “Maybe I should go change-”

“Breathe Gordon.” soothed Virgil, resting a reassuring hand on his shoulder. The weight of it felt good. Calming. “This isn’t a state dinner; just a normal games night like we’ve done a thousand times before. Nothing to get worked up about.”

Gordon scoffed. “Except it’s not though, is it? ‘Cos those other times it was just us, not-”

There was a ding and the elevator doors slid open.

“Right through here Lady Penelope.” Scott Tracy, suave as always, smoothly waved their guest into the room. “Go ahead and make yourself comfortable and we’ll get started.”

“Thankyou Scott. And sorry again that you had to come and collect me…”

And there she was. Penelope.

Perfection personified. The epitome of class and grace. A beautiful angel with a heart of gold and a spine of steel, whose voice was a song and whose smile could reduce whole armies to-

“Gordon, what on earth are you doing to that cushion?”

Huh?

He looked down at his hands to see the pillow he’d been fluffing, now scrunched and twisted over and over as if he were trying to throttle the poor thing. As he stared down trying to compute the mess of fabric and stuffing it suddenly disappeared from his hands, and then something was shoving him in the back, causing him to stumble forwards over his own feet. He recovered just in time to spot Virgil throwing the battered scatter cushion back behind the sofa, grinning from ear to ear.

Oh, there will be vengeance…

Right now though she was looking at him and oh god he needed to say something.

“Uh…”

Quick as you like, Tracy.

“Er…” His throat made a strange sort of rasping sound.

Any words will do!

“Lady Penelope!” he squeaked. “Welcome in! Come here! I mean come in. Welcome here. You’re welcome here. To our home I mean. This home. Where we…”

He glanced over and caught sight of Kayo, face in hand, shaking her head behind the temporary bar they’d set up for the evening.

“Drink!” he exclaimed, just a little too loudly. “Can I… Would you like a drink?”

The small, knowing smile she gave him was all at once thrilling and completely mortifying; a glorious little needle of light straight through his poor, mortal little heart.

“That would be wonderful. Thankyou Gordon.”

Cheeks burning, he slumped off to the bar and a consolatory shoulder nudge from Kayo while Scott showed Penelope to the seating area. Virgil scooted around them and disappeared back down to the kitchen, throwing him a sympathetic look on the way.

After getting their guest settled, Scott casually folded himself down on the sofa next to her. “So how come Parker didn’t join us tonight? He was more than welcome.”

Gordon loudly shovelled a scoopful of ice into a long glass and then reached for the schnapps.

Stupid Never-flustered Always-has-the-right-words Scott Tracy…

“He wasn’t feeling too good I’m afraid. He said something about Lilian’s casserole disagreeing with him, but to be honest I suspect it was probably more to do with the FA cup final showing on BBC.”

Cranberry, orange wedge…

Kayo cleared her throat softly. “So what drink was it you wanted, Lady Penelope?”

Gordon’s brain short-circuited, vodka in hand. 

What.. drink?

He replayed the conversation - such as it had been - through again in his head.

…Dammit, he forgot to ask! He’d been so flummoxed he’d ended up mixing on autopilot.

“Oh, anything really. Whatever you’re all having.” Penelope looked over curiously. “What’s that you have there, Gordon?”

Aww hell.

“It’s a… umm… Sex on the Beach.”

Now it was John’s turn to facepalm while Alan snickered from behind his tablet. Even Scott snorted before passing it off with a hasty clear of the throat. 

Lady Penelope, however, held Gordon’s gaze, expression inscrutable, then ever so slowly arched one perfectly coiffured eyebrow.

“Well, that sounds interesting. But perhaps just some wine for now and we’ll see how we get on.”

There was a squeak beside him, and Kayo ducked down behind the bar giggling. Alan snort-coughed and had to be hit on the back by John, who was at least trying - somewhat painfully - to keep a straight face. Scott just grinned at him.

Gordon stood there, stunned into inertia, though he wasn’t quite sure if it was his own mortification holding him back or the slight hint of mischief in Penelope’s eye, almost as if…

Nope, he was definitely imagining it.

Scott looked from one to the other for a moment then, chuckling to himself, jumped to his feet and strode over to the bar.

“C’mon Fish,” he said quietly, grabbing a champagne flute off the bar top and flashing his best, most reassuring, big brother smile. “Let’s go choose a game and get this thing started.”

Gordon nodded, dumbfounded. He grabbed his ridiculous but perfectly mixed drink, complete with little novelty umbrella, and trudged over to the seating area.

Alan was already giving the assembled group a run-down of the various choices lined up for the evening. “We’ve got all your classics like backgammon, chess, battleships, guess who…”

“Those are all for two people, Allie,” said Scott, grabbing himself a beer and pouring Penelope her wine. “How about something we can all play?”

“Clue then?”

“That needs six. We’ve got seven.”

“I don’t mind sitting out the first round if you need me to,” Penelope said gently, accepting her drink.

“Not a chance,” said John firmly. “You’re our guest.”

Alan looked around, confused. “Wait, who’s the seventh?” 

Kayo passed him a soda from the bucket. 

“Uh, Virgil(?)”

“Oh yeah.”

““Oh yeah” he says,” came Virgil’s voice over the ‘comms. “How soon I’m forgotten(!)”

“Sorry Virg!” Alan slurped his soda loudly, earning him a frown from both Scott and Gordon. “Guess I’m just too hungry to think. Where’s the food at?”

“It’s coming. Just waiting for the vol-au-vents to puff up.”

Alan nearly spat out his soda. 

“Vol-au-vents?! What happened to our wings and chi- Oww!” 

A pillow flew across the room and caught Alan right upside the head. He got back up and glared at Gordon, who was already gearing up for another throw. 

“Whatcha do that for?”

Penelope looked from one to the other, realisation dawning. 

“I do hope you didn’t go to any trouble, Virgil. Is there anything I can do to help?”

“Not at all. Really, it’s all in hand. I’ll be up in a few.” 

And with that the comms blinked off.

John swayed forward in his seat. “Y’know, I might go give him a hand…”

“Sit down, John!” ordered Scott, clearly done with them all by this point.

John remained there for a second, possibly weighing up the odds of making a run for it, then sat back down, arms folded definitely-not-at-all petulantly. 

“...Fine.”

“What about Monopoly?” suggested Penelope, clearly trying to change the subject. “That can have up to eight players.”

Kayo shook her head. 

“Can’t.”

“Oh?”

“We’ve been banned,” Alan piped up. “Grandma said so.”

A pause. “...I see.”

“Well that doesn’t matter, does it?” urged Gordon, keen to get everyone playing before the whole evening went up in smoke. “Grandma can’t stop us from all the way in Gran Roca.”

“You sure about that, Gords?” asked Kayo, eyebrow raised.

He laughed nervously. “Heh…”

“In any case,” interjected Scott, “did you forget why Grandma banned it?”

“...Good point.”

The Great Tracy Anti-capitalist Revolution of 2056. In Gordon’s defence Scott had started it, buying up all those hotels like a dragon hoarding gold…

Alan held up a bunch of VR headsets. “How about something more modern? I’ve got Samurai Slasher, Twilight Ridge, Malibu Steade’s Epic Quest…?”

Scott frowned. “Not on John's first night down, Squirt.”

“Oh yeah. Gotcha.”

Gordon nodded. Way too much potential for injury.

“Ugh!” John threw his hands in the air. “You guys are like a flock of mother hens. I’m fine! Look…” He rolled to his feet before anybody could tell him not to. “Nice and steady. No wobbles, no stumbles. Nothing. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to the bathroom.”

“Uh, Johnny…”

“John darling...”

“Nope, I’m not listening,” he barked, striding purposely out of the seating area towards the stairwell, “Comfort breaks are necessary, so I don't care what you s-”

“John!”

“Food’s here!”

“Look out!”

There was an “oof” and a crash as spaceman, heavy-lifter and a platter of freshly-made vol-au-vents collided in a mess of limbs and pastry before tumbling out of sight down the kitchen stairs.

“John!”

“Virgil!”

Everyone was on their feet as a series of thuds, grunts, clatters and clangs echoed from the stairway, followed by one very plaintive “Oww.”

The place immediately erupted into total uproar. Ever the level head, Kayo immediately ran to get the first aid kit and the medi-scanner. Meanwhile Scott - always the quickest to leap into action - practically flew down the stairs after the pair of them in a frenzy of big brotherly concern, with Alan, Gordon and Penelope following closely behind. 

The two fallers themselves were actually relatively uninjured in the circumstances. Both were a mess of bruises and grazes and smooshed pastry, but at least they were fully conscious and coherent enough to be thoroughly embarrassed by the whole thing. John had twisted his ankle and had a walnut-sized bump on his forehead, and Virgil (who had slid most of the way down the steps backwards) ended up with a bruised tailbone, strained shoulder and one broken finger.  

The kitchen, unfortunately, hadn’t fared quite so well. Total disaster was the most accurate description. 

Best they could figure, the metal serving platter Virgil had been carrying had reached the ground floor airborne, bounced off the doorframe and had landed right in the middle of the countertop, sending plates, bowls, jars and spoons scattering and smashing all over the place. The situation wasn’t helped any when MAX, having heard the commotion, came speeding into the kitchen brandishing a mop and broom, skidded on a stray patch of vol-au-vent filling, slammed into the fridge and sent ice cubes from the dispenser shooting across the floor, then got confused and started spinning on the spot, taking out the stand mixer and two cupboard doors in the process.

Eventually they managed to get things back on a somewhat even keel. After a thorough checking over and an even more thorough mothering from Big Bro, both casualties were helped to their feet and safely installed back on the sofas with strict instructions not. To. Move. 

Penelope kept herself busy fetching drinks and ice packs for the patients and generally trying to soothe frayed nerves while Gordon, Alan and Kayo set to work fixing the kitchen back up, but after twenty minutes Scott - aware of the time and the presence of their guest - called everyone back to try to enjoy what was left of the evening.

And so instead of vol-au-vents, chips and dips were retrieved from various stashes in various rooms, drinks were replenished (non-alcoholic for the two injured parties, eliciting low grumbles from one and shrug of “stupid gravity” from the other) and in lieu of further disagreements a couple of packs of cards was produced. 

The rest of the evening was spent enjoying rounds of Go Fish, rummy, and playing poker for bottle caps, with plenty of jokes, stories and good conversation enjoyed in-between. Towards the end of the night - and to Gordon’s delight - Penelope even taught them a game from her university days called Shithead.

Finally, after most of the others had said their goodnights and wandered off to their rooms, Gordon and Penelope sat side-by-side on the sofa finishing their drinks alone, save for Alan who was snoring softly on the floor beside them.

Penelope swirled the last of her drink with her straw. “Do you think we should move him? That doesn’t look very comfortable…”

Gordon shrugged. “Nah, that’s how he normally sleeps. It’s a teenager thing,” he added, chewing on his orange slice garnish.

Penelope beamed. “I really have had a lovely time tonight. It’s been the most terrific fun, injuries notwithstanding of course.” 

Her eyes seemed to sparkle in the warm mood lighting that EOS had finally persuaded John to put on an hour or so earlier.

“And this drink of yours really is delicious by the way.”

Gordon laughed.

“See? I knew you’d like it. Maybe one day I’ll open up a bar of my own right on the beach and serve them out of coconut shells.”

He removed the little paper umbrella from his glass and started opening and closing it like he was in a tiny Hollywood musical.

She laughed. “Well if tonight’s anything to go by, any bar of yours would never be dull!”

Gordon grinned and presented the tiny decoration to her with a flourish, all hint of his earlier embarrassment gone. He was here, she was here, and it was all just… right.

She accepted it with a smile.

Really though Gordon, it’s been the most wonderful night.” 

There was a pause while she twirled the umbrella in her hand thoughtfully.

“You know, it’s not always easy to relax around other people, especially in my line of work.” She sighed. “So many functions, so many people, but it can all sometimes feel just a little bit…” 

She shook her head. 

“I’m not making any sense. It’s just that being here with you all, everything feels so… easy; so fun.”

Gordon leaned forwards, willing her to go on. It was like a wall somewhere was shifting, and he could finally catch a small glimpse of what was actually going on behind that perfect smile of hers.

She looked up at him, eyes shining.

“I suppose what I’m trying to say is, thankyou so much for inviting me.”

A breath. A moment that seemed to stretch out between them, soft and fragile.

“Thankyou for coming.”

-------------------

The next morning, as Penny yawned and stretched out in the extra-soft, gloriously comfortable guest bed, luxuriating in the distinct novelty of waking up with nowhere particular she needed to be, her eye fell on the little yellow umbrella laying, just as she'd left it, on top of the nightstand beside her.

She smiled, her stomach fluttering.

So fun…

From downstairs there was a sudden commotion and a voice:

“WHAT IN GOD’S NAME HAVE YOU KIDS DONE TO MY KITCHEN?!”

[ljnsdump]

Broken? No, Just Rearranging (SERIES)

Kim Mingyu x Female Reader

Kim Mingyu as Lucas Blue Ramirez and Y/N as Ara Riona Teves De La Vega

Just let go of the illusion that it could have been any different.

Genre: M/F, old friends to lovers, fluff(in the next chapters), smut (not in this chap tho), angst, late 20s established career setting

Warnings: Just mean, bratty and hateful OC

Word Count: 2 367

Hello and welcome to my first ever series! This will we in both English and Tagalog for better feels. I am so excited for you guys to read this! This story has always been in my notes for the longest time, I literally wrote the first chapter when I was in 9th grade. Anyway, enjoy reading! Please do not hesitate to give me some constructive criticism.

----

CHAPTER 1: Let it Bleed

'DLVGC Headquarters' 

The sign on the huge led screen says when you enter the main lobby of the huge building.

De la Vega Group of Companies, one of the biggest businesses ran by a family. Malls, hotels, restaurants, clothing, makeup brands, food factories, and transportations. Own most of it. They are all over the world now. The business grew a lot. The person who stands as the head of everyone, even the presidents of each company is their own grandfather, Chairman Dominico de la Vega. He has 6 offspring leading each company except one. Don de la Vega and his wife chose other fields. Business wasn't their vibe. Now, their only daughter will manage all of De la Vega Fashion and Beauty. The only grandchild who takes over her parents' job in the family. At dahil dun, naging paborito siya ni Chairman Dominico. Pinag-aral siya sa France at ngayon ay babalik na.

"Mr. Ramirez, hinihintay po kayo ng Chairman." Sabi ng assistant ng chairman na nasa front desk ng opisina nito. Tumango ang binata at pinagbuksan siya ng assistant ng pinto sa opisina ng chairman.

"Magandang umaga po, Chairman Dominico." Bati niya.

"Blue, kamusta ang preparasyon para sa pagdating ni Ara?" Tanong ng matanda.

"Mabuti naman po. Iniba na namin ang panloob ng buong DLV Fashion ayon sa kagustuhan niya." Sagot ni Blue.

Si Lucas Blue Ramirez ay isa sa mga pinagkakatiwalaang tao ng pamilyang ito. Matanda lang ng apat na taon kay Ara at ito ang magiging assistant niya.

"Great. I want you to escort her from the airport to DVLF. Your job as her assistant and secretary starts." Utos nito at walang pag-aalinlangang tumango si Blue.

Lumabas ng headquarters si Blue at sumakay sa isang van kasama ang dalawang gwardya. Susunduin nila si Ara airport. Nakasunod sa kanila ang isa pang van dahil napakarami daw nitong dalang maleta.

Pagpasok nila sa airport, nakatayo sa may arrival area si Ara na nakasuot ng kulay pink na Gucci wool silk short belted jumpsuit, pink leather Gucci platform heels na may double G emblem, pink na 1969 Plexiglass mini top handbag na mula Gucci rin. Nakatayo lang siya dun habang hawak hawak ang kanyang gray and pink gradient metal sunglasses na mula Gucci rin. Nakatingin lang ito ng diretso at halatang naiinis na. Nasa likod niya ay halos sampung pink na Horizon 55 luggage bags mula Louis Vuitton at isang babaeng may edad na parang around 50's.

"I just got here, don't try to ruin my mood." Galit niyang sabi kay Blue nang lapitan siya nito at mga kasama niyang gwardya.

"Na traffic kami." Sagot nito. "I will be your assistant, I'm Lucas Blue Ramirez."

She walks past them. Pinagtitinginan pa siya ng mga tao dahil nga sa pag-susuot niya at mga dala niya.

Nang nasa loob na sila ng van, sinuot ni Ara ang kanyang sunglasses. "Take me to my house. I want to rest." Sabi niya.

Tumingin ang driver kay Blue na nasa front seat at tumango lang ito.

Pumasok sila sa modernong mansyon na may napakahabang infinity pool sa gitna. Halos kita na ang loob ng bahay dahil sa mga glass exterior nito. Ang mansyon ay hugis U na merong tatlong palapag at underground parking lot. Meron sun deck at barbeque place sa may pool. Sa kabilang dako naman ng parking lot ay ang gym. Sa unang palapag, nanduon ang kusina, sala, at hapag kainan. Sa pangalawang palapag kay pitong kwarto na walang gumagamit at ang buong 3rd floor ay kwarto ni Ara. Meron ring rooftop.

"Magandang umaga, Senorita." Bati ng walong kasambahay, at hardinero. Tumango siya sa mga ito at umakyat na sa kwarto niya gamit ang elevator. Kasama niya doon sina Blue at yung kasama niyang babae.

"That's Nanay Hilda. Siya ang nag-aalaga sakin mula noon pa." Sabi ni Aya.

"Hello po, ako po si Blue." Inilahad ni Blue ang kanyang kamay para makipaglamano at tinanggap naman ito ni Hilda ng nakangiti. "Ako po ang bagong assistant ng alaga niyo."

"Sumama ako dito sa Pilipinas para makauwi na ako saamin. Alagaan mo ng mabuti itong si Ara ha." Tinapik nito ang balikat niya.

"Makakasigurado po kayo."

"Nanay, matutulog muna ako. Tell him what he needs to know." Sabi niya at pumunta sa kanyang kama habang pumunta sa may lounge area ng kwarto sina Blue at Hilda.

"Is she always that cold and bratty?" Naiinis na tanong ni Blue. "Wala man lang ka emosyon emosyon sa mukha."

Natawa nalang si Hilda. "Mabait yang batang yan. Wag mo lang inisin. At kahit gaano ka nakakatakot, wag mo sanang pabayaan."

Napailing ng dahan dahan si Blue. "Sana nga."

"Pag naiinis yan, mahilig nyang matulog o kaya uminom. Pigilan mo muna pag gustong uminom, pero pag nagpupumilit, bigyan mo nalang ng white wine. Kapag stress, bigyan mo ng pagkain. Mahilig yan sa maaanghang. Mahilig rin yang mag shopping."

"Ano po bang kinakainisan niya?"

"Yung mabagal, yung late, yung sumasapaw kapag nagsasalita siya, kapag hindi nasusunod ang kagustuhan niya."

"Spoiled brat."

"Alagaan mo ng mabuti." Ngumiti ang matanda.

Kinabukasan na lumabas ng kwarto si Ara. Nakasuot ng velvet red a-line ankle-length dress na slit-sleeved. Ito ay sinuotan niya ng velvet red ring platform pump at mga aksesorya. Ang kanyang buhok ay nakaplantsa lang para ma straight.

Napatingin ang lahat ng kasambahay at pati na si Blue sa kanya paglabas niya ng elevator.

"Take me to the HQ. I have a lot of people to greet." Sabi niya habang naglalakad at nilampasan si Blue.

Pinagbuksan siya ni Blue ng pinto ng van at umandar na ito.

"Ask them when will my cars arrive. I hate this fat, shabby van." Utos niya kay Blue at nagsuot ng itim na sunglasses. Sumandal siya sa headrest at pinikit ang mga mata para makatulog.

Tinawagan naman ni Blue ang shipping company. "Hi, this is Ms. Ara Riona de la Vega's assistant. Can I ask when the cars will arrive?" He asks in English fluently.

"Sir, the cars have arrived already early this morning, we just have to check the papers and the cars will be sent to her house." Sagot ng babae sa telepono.

Binaba ni Blue ang telepono. "Chinicheck na ang papers." Sabi niya at pumikit na rin.

Pagdating nila, napakaraming taong naghihintay sa kanya. Nakalinya silang lahat sa harap ng building. Nagulat si Ara sa kanyang nakita. Nandoon pati ang kanyang mga pinsan.

"Bakit hindi mo sinabing nandito sila?!" Naiinis na tanong ni Ara kay Blue.

"Kung sinabi ko, hindi ka pupunta." Sagot naman ni Blue at bumaba ng van para pagbuksan si Ara sa kabilang side. Pagbaba ni Ara ay nilapitan siya ng kanyang siyam na mga pinsan.

"Why are you here?" Tanong niya habang nakaigting ang panga sa galit.

Ngumisi ang isa sa mga pinsan niyang lalaki na si Angelo. "Bidang bida kana naman."

"As expected, basta paborito kahit kaming hindi interesado nadadamay." Sabi pa ng isa na si Lianna.

Magsasalita na sana si Ara nang sumingit si Blue. "There are insiders and journalists around us." Mahina lang ang kanyang pagkasabi pero natigil ang mga magpinsan.

Ara forced a smile at lumapit isa-isa sa kanyang mga pinsan. "I missed all of you." Isa isa niyang niyakap ang siyam.

Walo sa kanyang mga pinsan ay inis na inis sa kanya. Si Ara kasi ang pinakapaborito ng lolo't lola nila. Ang isa na si Aimee ay ang tanging pinsan niyang mabuti at malapit sa kanya.

"Our Ara is here!" Chairman Dominico leaped in joy.

"Never seen him that ridiculous ever." Another one of her cousins, Jeannette whispered.

"Not for you." Ara smirked and walked past them going to their grandfather. She went in for a tight hug. "I'm so happy to see you again, lo."

Dominico's heart warms as his granddaughter that he misses hugs her. Ilang taon na ring hindi bumalik ng Pilipinas si Ara dahil kinailangan niyang tutukan ang pag-aaral para lang maging bagay sa kanyang position sa negosyo ngayon.

"Greet your tito's and tita's. They came here for you." Ngumiti ang matanda. "Then come with me to my office."

She went to her tito's and tita's at binati ito isa isa. Hindi katulad sa mga pinsan niya, ang relasyon niya sa kanila ay okay lang naman. Hindi man ganun ka lapit sa isa't isa pero wala namang galit na namamagitan.

"Ba't mo naman na isipang bumalik dito ng bigla bigla?" Tanong ng matanda sa kanyang apo nang dumating sila sa opisina niya. Siya, si Ara at Blue lang ang naroroon.

She pouted. "Ayaw niyo ba ako dito, lo?"

Natawa ito. "Hindi naman, apo. Nagtatanong lang naman ako kasi biglaan ang pag-uwi mo."

Napatingin siya sa bintana. "May kailangan lang akong ihanda."

Napasinghap ang matanda. "You can't heal unless you won't forgive, Ara." Tumaas ang isang kilay ni Ara dahil sa sinabi ng kanyang lolo. "You've experienced a lot in France, I know."

"Then let it bleed." Her voice cracked in anger.

"Who are you?" Tanong ni Ara at sabay silang huminto ni Blue.

"I'm Lucas Blue Ramirez." Sagot niya.

Umirap si Ara at sarkastikong tumawa. "Why are you my assistant?"

"The chairman chose me."

"Why?"

"He wants someone who can put up with your attitude." He replied frankly that startled her a little and made her eyes pierce in anger. She started walking again to the car.

"Go to the company." Utos niya sa driver.

Pagdating nila sa malawak na building na may limang palapag, nandoon rin ang mga trabahante na nakasuot ng lab coats, masks at gloves naghihintay sa kanya.

They all bowed upon seeing her. She stood in front of them with Blue beside her. "Welcome to the company, President and Chief Executive Officer Ara Riona de la Vega."

Tumingin si Blue sa kanya upang makita ang magiging reaksyon nito. Ngumiti si Ara. "Maraming salamat." This is probably the first time he sees her smile since she arrived.

Lumapit sa kanyang ang mga namamahala ng kompanya. "Magandang umaga, po. I'm DLVGC's Clear Cosmetics general manager, Lygel Marasigan." Sabi nito. "We've prepared your coat, mask and gloves." Binagay naman ito ni Ara kay Blue.

Isa isang nagpakilala ang mga namamahala ng kompanyang Clear Cosmetics at De la Vega Fashion.

"Pumasok na po tayo sa loob?" Aya ni Lygel Marasigan.

Sinuot ni Ara ang gloves at mask, si Blue naman ang nagpasuot sa kanya nung coat na may red metal name plate.

Ara Riona Teves de la Vega

Clear Cosmetics and De la Vega Fashion

President and CEO

Pumasok sila sa building at ang sumalubong kay Ara ay mga kahong napakalaki.

Tumaas agad ang kilay niya. "What are these?"

Blue shuts his eyes in disbelief. He clearly told them not to put those boxes there.

"I-Iyan po ang gagamiting materyales para sa araw na ito."

"This is the entrance of the building if you didn't know." She said sarcastically. "Do those boxes look appealing to you?"

"Pasensya na po, ipapalipat na po namin ito sa likuran." Yumuko si Lygel. Agad na kumilos ang mga trabahante.

"Yan po ang information desk natin at andyan nakabantay sila Bruce at Kate." He gestured to the long counter and behind it was a wall with the huge rectangular portrait of the de la Vega family.

"Itong unang dalawang palapag po ay para sa Clear Cosmetics tas yung pangatlo at pang-apat ay sa De la Vega Fashion. Ang panglimang palapag ay studio. Dito lang rin po ginagawa ang mga photoshoot." Sabi ng isa sa kanila.

"I want this space to be a comfortable lobby." She said while scanning the room when the boxes were cleared out.

"Opo."

Gabi na nang matapos nilang libutin ang buong building pati na rin ang bodega at canteen na nasa katabing building.

"Nasa bahay na ba ang mga sasakyan ko?" Tanong ni Ara habang nakapikit at komportableng nakaupo sa van.

"Hinatid kaninang alas dos ng hapon." Sagot naman ni Blue.

"Good. Bring me home."

"Ano bang gusto mong kainin, tatawag ako sa bahay." Tanong ni Blue sa kanya.

"I'm eating out with a friend." Tanging sagot ni Aya.

Pagdating nila ng bahay ay agad na pumunta sa kwarto si Aya at naghanda. She took a quick shower. Still in her robe, she dried her long hair. Pagkatapos ay sinuot niya ang spaghetti strap layered ruffle mid-thigh length dress na kulay puti. She wore dangling earrings and necklace with it as well as a bracelet and a ring and white sling back heels.

Pagbaba niya ng kwarto, alas otso na ng gabi. Pumunta muna siya sa sala dahil nandoon ang susi ng mga sasakyan niya. Nandoon si Blue naghihintay sa kanya.

"Why are you still here?" Tanong niya.

"Akala ko ba may lakad ka pa?" Kaswal na tanong niya pabalik.

"I'll go alone." Sagot niya at sumakay balik sa elevator. Sumunod si Blue kaya nagtaka siya. "What are you doing?"

"Drop me off at the nearest bus stop." Sagot nito at inilagay ang kanyang mga kamay sa bulsa.

Bumukas ang elevator. Nasa parking lot na sila. "And why would I do that?"

He shrugs. "I don't know."

She rolled her eyes in disbelief. No one has ever talked so casually to her before. Six cars in red, black and white colors are lined up in the parking lot. She stopped between them choosing what to use. She then chose a white Jaguar F-type convertible.

"My previous assistant will be arriving tomorrow and will be bringing the clothes and shoes I have left in France. She will also be the new social media strategist for De la Vega Fashion." Sabi ni Aya habang nagdadrive.

"Who are you meeting?" He asks casually.

She suddenly stepped on the brakes. Thankfully no car was behind them. "I'm sorry since when does an assistant care about that?"

"Since now." He replied.

She pulled over the bus stop. Bumaba si Blue at pinaharurot ni Aya ang kanyang sasakyan.

She parked her car infront of a boujee steak house. Pagpasok niya agad siyang binati ng waiters.

"Omg, hi! You're here!" A tall, stylish gay rushed and hugged her tight. "I haven't seen you in person for 3 years already."

She hugged him back. "Yeah, you quitted from fashion school."

"I was just really tired. You know the story." He rolls his eyes.

"How are the preparations?”

[mrmustachious]

Ayoooooo can we have a kayo for the ask game pls

You sure can!

So Kayo is an nb lesbian (I have a fic in the works which features this heavily :D) I am a multishipper so although pen&ink is the otp I am also partial to a bit of shadowrose. Maybe they exist in an alternate universe. (Hense why I ticked both platonic and romantic. It depends on the mood I'm in)

I also love the idea of Kayo being bffs with Gordon and Alan cause they are closest in age to her.

[astranite]

Still Here Hanging On

Having a pretty mleh day so I wrote this because it's what I needed to and maybe its what someone else needs to read too.

Some hurt/comfort and Scott being there for Virgil and hugs, because would it really be Astra fic without hugs.

I think Earth and Sky might actually be my favourite to write.

Warning for depression, but it doesn't go too dark.

------

The overcast sky made the world flat and dull. The clouds pulled the life and light out of it, as if a tube of grey paint had been mixed with the usually bright palette, dampening the colours.

Virgil breathed out heavily, resting his elbows on his knees. Grey was about the colour of his mood right now. 

Nothing was wrong, per se. Just the usual: exhaustion from rescues, he hadn't slept right the last few nights, his knees ached because he managed to fuck up a landing jumping from a low wall in his exosuit and twisted his left enough that it hurt when he put weight through it weird, in addition to the other which was just messed up normally. 

He’d had a good day though. Or at least he should have. He enjoyed spending time with Gordon and Alan, and he’d finally had a chance to work on Two’s extra maintenance upgrades which he’d been looking forward to for a while. Not that he got much done anyway. 

Was just one of those days. He was in a low mood and it sucked, and it would pass, he knew that, but in the middle of it that never seemed like it could happen.

Little things got to him more. He’d tried to practise some of his new piece at the piano, but nothing seemed to work. The timings were off and his fingers wouldn't cooperate, and he stuffed up every second note in discordant clashes, even of the parts he did know. Then he discovered he’d somehow been doing it in the wrong key all along. 

He gave up when he was worse than he’d started with. For the time being, not entirely. It was an off day and he wasn't feeling it and he knew he was allowed to have bad days. But dragging himself out of them, out of his spiralling thoughts, over and over was exhausting, in a bone-deep, mind numbing way. 

Virgil hated it. 

It was better than the gaping, desolate hole that had been an open wound in the centre of his chest years ago.

But it was awful when echos of that feeling, that lack of feeling still hit him. 

He scuffed his foot across the pool deck concrete, then winced as his knee clicked. He slammed his fist into his thigh in frustration, then took a deep breath and rubbed at the spot. 

The sky was still grey when he stared up at it until his eyes blurred. Not even Gordon was out here. He was inside playing video games with Alan and Kayo, but Virgil had wandered off. 

Ending up on one of the steps where they went down to the pool beat sitting in his room, drowning in it. And some sunlight and fresh air might make him feel a bit better, or at least he could be miserable just as well outside as inside. 

He heard scuffing footsteps behind him and didn't have to turn to recognise them. Scott, carefully making his steps loud enough he wouldn’t scare Virgil by sneaking up on him.

Virgil didn't react, except to slump further. He didn't have it in him to pull up the smile, the facade of okay, of fine, and he didn't need to with Scott anyway.

Scott sat down next to him and bumped their shoulders together. Virgil leant into the contact, keeping his gaze firmly fixed on the ocean horizon.

“Hey, you doing okay?” Scott asked. 

Virgil swallowed. Scott was always there for him, no questions asked. Through the highs and lows, no matter if it was a bad rescue or nerves before a gallery exhibit. Virgil could let Scott see him as not steadfast and steady, when the cracks were becoming too much to bear. He’d be there through all of his doubts and insecurities.

Tears stung as they welled up in his eyes. Virgil turned and wrapped his arms around Scott, burying his face in his chest. 

Scott hugged him tight. He rubbed a hand over Virgil’s back as his shoulders shook. 

The tears didn't last long. They never did when he was like this. The numb, awful feeling slammed back into him and he couldn't even cry it out and he was just clinging to Scott. 

Virgil made a quiet noise that wasn't a sob because he wasn't crying, but was just as miserable, tugged out of his throat with jagged edges. 

Scott held him closer.

He was barely hanging on, everything was pulling him under, and he just had to keep fighting and fighting because he had no other choice. He just wanted a fucking break but that wasn't going to happen. Because it was his own head that was doing this to him and he couldn't escape that.

It was exhausting. And lonely and miserable.

Where he still had days where he felt helpless and useless and grey. Where nothing could cheer him up and he couldn't always pull himself out of it. He doubted his skills and abilities, as Two’s pilot, as an artist and musician. As a brother. 

Where he just wasn't enough.

But Scott still held him. Where he couldn't be strong enough on his own, he could lean against Scott. 

Because Scott believed in him, always and unflinchingly, not out of the hero worship of Alan and sometimes even Gordon did, but in Virgil, in his skills and his self. In what he could do with all their tech at his disposal, in what he could do without his gear or backup. But ultimately, Scott believed in who he was. Scott buillt him up, he had his back and absolutely trusted in him.

His big brother loved him. Whether he was triumphant or struggling. Just as much when he was drowning under the weight of everything as when he was on top of the world. All his family did, unconditionally, with no strings attached. They cared about him. 

Scott’s fingers carded gently through his hair. Virgil shuffled so he could tuck his head into the crook of Scott’s shoulder and just rest there for a while. He could feel each deep breath Scott took as his chest expanded against Virgil’s own. 

Virgil hands were wound in Scott’s hoodie, the navy one with paint splatters from an incident involving a falling canvas, that they all borrowed from time to time. The ocean waves met the shore with their comforting shushing sounds, and the clouds were over the sun blocking it out, and Virgil still felt greyed out but he could keeping hanging on. 

He pulled back to press his forehead to Scott’s and closed his eyes.

“I’m— I’m not doing okay,” he said, “But I’m hanging in here.” 

“Alright. I’m here for you,” Scott replied. 

Virgil opened his eyes to blue ones crinkled at the edges and Scott’s soft smile. 

“You always catch me when I need it, and I’ve got you when you do,” Scott added. 

Then, “Virge?”

Virgil hummed, not letting go for a second.

“I love you.” 

“Love you too, Scotty.” Virgil leant into their hug. 

It wasn't all better. This wasn't something even all of Scott’s determination and his own stubborn could fix. But Virgil wasn't alone when the skies lost their colour and music its melody, when everything ached and his body weighed him down.

His family were here for him, Scott believed in him and he could keep hanging on.

[nobbykun]

Artist - 中条きよし (Nakajo, Kiyoshi) Song - 理由(わけ) (Wake) [Eng. "Reason"] Release Date - October 1974

Listen 🎶

https://rumble.com/v4xnp0x-kiyoshi-nakajo-wake.html

My blog: Showa Music Library https://nobbykun.tumblr.com/

[tigre-edi-rawr]

appreciation post to my man 🥹💙

first time experiencing enchanted kingdom with siblings while being with my partner at the same time.

yesterday was busy af.

woke up to an unresolved fight with almost 2 hours sleep. i asked him not to come with us anymore but when he said “isama mo na ako please please please.” to “sige sa labas nalang ako… gusto ko lang mahatid kayo don.” ☹️ he begged for 2 hours until i gave in. the most patient man i have ever been with who hates making me tired in any travel especially having the hot weather nowadays.

he drove multiple times to get us to our personal errands. my hospital appointment for check-up and laboratory tests. who waited patiently with me and for my siblings to get ready without any complaints or change in mood.

childhood feels. it’s been years since i went to EK, especially with my siblings and my niece. exhausted but it was all worth it.

my heart was happy and calm. i was grateful.

thank you, bi. mahal kita, palagi. sobra.

[nice2meetyouu]

Malayo pa pero malayo na moments

Probably, nagbobolahan lang kami.

Pero today I had an interview for an online role and it seemed to be going well. After the interview, sabi nga nya it was great daw. Haha.

I remember my client interview din sa main job where one of the comments was "I enjoyed this interview, thank you." Entertainer yarn? Pero nakakaaliw kasi 'yung parang nag-uusap lang kayo versus 'yung usual na rigid questioning. Sana nagsulat na lang ako sa papel kung gano'n.

Baka pang customer service pala talaga ako pag nasa mood? Char. Contemplating na nga magresidency pero andami kong igigive up pag pumasok ako sa ospital. Goodbye life, goodbye balance, hello work.

Anyway, I love my doctor job. I just have an absurd financial goal kaya ako may 2-3 other jobs all the time even to the point of burnout.

In 2016, I had my first phone interview sa isang online English tutorial service sa mga hapon. And I was rejected kasi hindi raw ako fluent. Hindi ko makuha 'yung timing ng pagsagot.

Pero ngayon, I guess I'm better at articulating my thoughts na. To be fair, marami pa ring fail moments and rejections (even for doctor jobs lol). I guess, today's a sunny day for me.

[edutainer2022]

UNREQUITED Ch 7.5

Co-written with @janetm74

Ch 7 | Ch 8 | AO3

A piece, concurrent with the ending of Ch 7 (Page Six). A glimpse into Scott's reaction and overall state of mind (aka the lies his heartbreak is telling him). Virgil is being a very supportive brother, but he's out of his depth quite a bit.

(interlude)

*interlude*

Virgil startled, as he didn't expect his brother to speak. Not since he picked him up off the floor of Dad's study, hyperventilating, amidst the shards of the broken whiskey glass and the shattered picture frame of Scott's AirForce graduation photo Dad kept on his desk.

Not since they holed up in one of the Round House guest rooms, while the short notice preparations of the impromptu "wedding party" were afoot.

Virgil quietly debated with John to maybe ask to call it off, but it was Penelope's request. And Gordon was so excited. They wondered if that was also Lady P's sneaky way to arrange a getaway for her friend Kayo and Rigby in a beautiful, romantic setting. That would have been a move right up her alley.

None of that certainly helped improve Scott's mood or made him more forthcoming. Big brother was just not all there since the news announcement and the breakdown in the study.

Virgil wondered if Scott even noticed his brother was an ever present shadow at his side those past two days. Apparently he did.

They saw FAB 1 land on the island, earlier than expected, from the vantage point of the mountain terrace.

Then John's message came through - that the "wedding" was an elaborate GDF undercover op. Scott reacted to that in a way Virgil didn't anticipate - with a laugh that chilled him to the bone. A laugh of a madman.

Virgil was still unsure what to say, once his brother calmed down, but Scott spoke first.

"I can't do this anymore."

Virgil's chest tightened. Virgil shifted to press himself closer to Scott's shoulder and provide support. Whatever his brother needed at the moment. Scott's voice was hoarse.

"I can't feel like this anymore. I can't! I want to stop!"

"Scotty, you're scaring me."

Virgil didn't intend to sound so small and unsure, but the raw pain Scott let him see up close, left the little brother in him rattled. Virgil leaned his chin on Scott's shoulder, an extra anchoring point in the storm.

"I can't feel like I couldn't ever be happy. I want to stop! All of it. Just stop!"

Virgil's vision swam. There was a determination behind the anguish in his brother's voice that got him so scared all the way back in the Arctic blizzard. That was a step before Scott setting a self-destruction course.

Virgil tried again with the softest inflection, usually reserved to shocked rescuees:

"Scotty, it's okay. You deserve all the happiness you ever wish for, I promise!"

It didn't have an intended effect, as big brother snorted bitterly.

"That's just it, Virgie - I DON'T! She was right."

Virgil's educated guess as to the "she" was immediately confirmed.

"She was right. I was Dad's charity case. He probably saw right away I wasn't cut out for GDF, so planned to pull me out anyway. That was even before... That Place."

Virgil shuddered. Any mention of the hell in Bereznik those months were for Scott (and for them all) was a minefield of its own. But Scott wasn't done.

"And after... Dad didn't even trust me to go on Zero-X with him. Didn't trust me to save him! She was right - I'm a waste of AirForce training and Dad's hopes!"

Scott was sobbing more than talking coherently at that point, so Virgil concentrated on clutching him for dear life, as if scared the brother would fracture into pieces if he let go. His own tears were soaked in by the denim shirt.

John's notice he was coming up remained unread.

[tracybirds]

Listen they can't genderbend a character from TOS for TAG and expect me to not believe she's trans lol so happy trans Colonel Casey Day!!!

Written for @thunder-pride <3

---

When Jeff stepped onboard the Zero-XL, the first thing he noticed was the bright lights that seemed to shine from all directions. Brilliant and blinding and perfectly mirroring the leap in his heart and the smiles on his boys’ faces.

His boys.

He couldn’t stop staring, hardly listening as they filled the atmosphere with hope and joy and laughter. Not even the Hood could bring the mood down as he glared daggers at them all.

Virgil and Gordon had strapped him down to a medical stretcher, preferring to keep him in sight while Alan ran through the pre-flight checks, Scott murmuring in his ear while John frowned at the navigational display beside him.

There was none of the friction he recalled from their younger years, each of his sons safe and secure and slipping past one another as though they rescued men from the stars every day.

Perhaps they did, he mused. They’d obviously not allowed the beautiful machines that he and Brains had built together sit idle.

He tried to ignore the way his knees buckled as he lowered himself into his seat, fingers trembling as he strapped himself in and trying to ignore his sons’ stares.

Adrenaline was one hell of a drug and he was coming down at last.

“Maybe you should get some rest instead, Dad,” said Virgil.

Jeff waved him off. “I’ve been waiting a long time to come home and I’ll do it on my own terms or not at all.”

“We won’t think less of you, if that’s what you’re worried about,” argued Virgil. “There’s no need to be proud.”

Jeff clenched his hands into fists, lips thinning as he furiously tried to control the tremor. “It’s not pride, son,” he said against gritted teeth.

He’d pay the price later, he was sure. But he couldn’t bring himself to leave, aware that he had walked the line between exhaustion and delirium before and that the presence of his boys – real and alive and so much more than his poor imagined imitations could hope to be – was the only evidence that this wasn’t a hallucination.

Information would keep the creeping tendrils of fear that this was the product of some fever dream out of his mind and so Jeff turned instead to Scott.

“How long?”

Scott straightened imperceptibly as he turned back to Jeff, radiating a surety he’d barely begun to grow into the last time they’d been together.

“Eight years,” he said.

Eight years!

Jeff exhaled slowly, trying to calm his racing mind. His reckoning had been off by more than three years, unable to mark the passage of time with the sun and stars above him. No wonder Alan looked so much like a young man. No wonder Gordon moved like someone recovered from old injuries that Jeff couldn’t recall. No wonder his older sons were starting to bear the finest marks of age, despite their youth.

So much could happen in eight years.

“And your grandma?” Jeff trailed off, not sure of what he wanted to know, remembering all the times he’d woken in the eternal night, sure that this time his mother was dead, that the thudding in his chest signified something worse than nightmares.

“She’s fine,” said Scott quickly. “More than fine. Still trying to bake us cookies.”

“She actually gave us some for when we found you,” said Gordon with a grin. “I incinerated them before we left.”

Jeff barked a laugh and leant back in his chair.

“And Kyrano? Kayo?”

“We haven’t seen Kyrano much,” said Scott. “He took it pretty hard when you… vanished.”

“He’s okay,” cut in Virgil. “Semi-retired and spent some time with family in Malaysia before Lady Penelope invited him to consult for Kew Gardens. Kayo says he’s enjoying it but he hates the weather.”

Jeff chuckled. “He did always despise feeling cold. Got into his bones, he said. What about Uncle Tim? I assume he’s stuck pretty close to you. We always said if something happened to either of us in the field that we’d look out for each other’s families.”

 There was a pause, a silence that gaped between them as his sons looked at one another. Jeff’s heart pounded, a cold sweat breaking out across his brow. His lips tingled, turning numb as he read what must have happened in his sons’ careful expressions.

“He’s not dead,” he asked, already knowing with an awful certainty that loomed over him. “He can’t be, I… I wasn’t there. How’s Lesley and the kids doing? When did it happen? Oh God, how–”

“Dad, breathe!”

He didn’t know who said it but he obeyed instantly. The air caught in his chest and he tried again, and again, losing himself to the slow count as his vision returned.

“What–” he began, but Scott held up a hand to prevent further questions.

“Dad, Lesley is fine. And T-tim…” He stumbled over the name as though it were foreign, looking over at his brothers for help.

“She’s Aunt Val now,” said Gordon, cheerfully. He shrugged at Scott’s glare. “No sense wasting time.”

He turned back to Jeff and grinned widely. “She’s not dead, but she’s a lot happier as far as I can tell. She told us a few months after you left.”

Jeff sat frozen, his fears vanishing so quickly that he felt a sense of vertigo.

Then he smiled.

“Well then, she finally told everyone, thank goodness for that!”

Scott blinked.

“You already knew?”

“I’m one of her best friends, of course I knew,” said Jeff, sill grinning broadly. “She told us years ago, didn’t want to make a fuss until she’d achieved her career goals because she didn’t want anyone to say they only gave it to her for a political statement. I always said that was ridiculous, but then she’d know better than me, I guess. I’m only sorry I missed the party.”

The atmosphere relaxed around him, the uncertain defensive wall dropping in an instant.

“She didn’t have one in the end,” said Virgil. “Said it didn’t feel right without you.”

Jeff frowned.

“First thing we do when we get home then,” he said. “Throw her a party.”

“After we’ve checked you out.”

Jeff waved a hand.

“I’m fine. I already told you.”

Virgil glared at Scott. “He’s as bad as you.”

Scott laughed. “Let’s go home.”

Jeff looked around the room one more time as they all steadied themselves for the countdown.

Five. John’s eyes darted back and forth across the navigational controls with a steel focus, wordlessly whispering unknown calculations.

Four. Gordon grimaced in anticipation of the jump ahead and glared at the Hood as he made sure he was still secure.

Three. Alan breathed carefully, and Jeff could practically see the checklist scrolling in his mind as he lay his hands on the thrusters.

 Two. Virgil was watching him, searching for any final sign of injury.

One. Scott looked out across the stars, his eyes settling on the far-off sun as he drew himself up to his full height.

Zero.

The jump blurred against his mind, the memory of the Zero-X launch achingly familiar against his bones.

And then, Jeff saw her with a hitching breath, blue and white and brown and green.

He was home.

[gumnut-logic]

“Virgil?”

He sighed, slammed the wrench down on Two’s hull and grabbed another one. “Yes, Gordon, what do you want now?”

“No need to be snappy there, bro.”

“Gordon, my ‘bird is currently floating in the Pacific with her engines full of water. In what way do you think this would put me in a good mood?”

“You have Penny on board.”

“What?”

“What is she doing right now?”

“Uh, helping Scott clean sand out of the intakes. Why?”

“Oh, just interested.”

Can you be interested silently? But he didn’t say it. A calming breath and he dove back into the hatch. The sun near the equator was expectedly hot, and in a breach of protocol, he had removed his baldric, stashed it nearby for the comm signal, and unzipped the top half of his uniform. He would have loved to throw the whole thing off, but safety concerns, a frowning Scott and, of course, the Penny presence vetoed that.

But man, it would be nice to be cool.

His girl was swamped with water and she wasn’t going to fly until that water was flushed out and all her engines checked and double checked. As it was it was likely they would have to airlift her back to the Island using the heavy-duty pods that had dragged her space-damaged carcass out of the ocean last time. It had taken a week to clean her out.

Thunderbird Two was not a submarine.

“So, she was a good co-pilot?”

“Yes, Gordon.”

“Reckon she might come out of rescues?”

“Why?”

“Maybe she wants to become a more active member of International Rescue?”

“Say that to her face and you are likely to lose yours. In no way is Lady Penelope inactive.”

“Uh, you might have a point.” A sigh. “So, what do you think of Penny?”

“Gordon, I’m not going to gossip about your girlfriend.”

“She’s not my girlfriend!”

“But you wouldn’t mind if she was.”

“Um...”

“Obvious, Gordo, obvious.”

“You have a point.”

“Ask her out and put us out of our misery.”

“Hey, timing, Virg. It isn’t like I can escort her anywhere at the moment.”

“You don’t have to, Gordon, or haven’t you noticed that, she has been on Tracy Island more since you were injured than she has in the past ten years?”

“Uh, yeah?”

“Ask her out, Gordon. Use one of the hoverbikes and take her down to your favourite beach for a picnic. I’ll even tie up Alan for you.” He swapped wrenches again. Damn, this vent was being stubborn. He whacked it and narrowly missed his thumb, but the housing shifted and he was finally able to open the access.

“Ugh, crap.”

“What?”

“Mulched sea life in the aft dorsal vent.”

“Mulched?”

“Well, if you went through the forward intake, you’d come out mulched too. Two is not a submersible.”

“You keep saying that, yet you didn’t hesitate to take her under.”

“I had good reason.”

“Yes, an older brother who wouldn’t listen to his resident aquanaut.” Gordon’s voice took on a frustrated tone. “If he had just waited, we wouldn’t have had the problem.”

“Scott was just anxious.”

“Virgil, if I had done that you would be ripping me a new one.”

A swallow. Gordon was right. There was a stern discussion to be had in the future. But the hope regarding their father was like a light at the end of the tunnel and it shone everything else into insignificance.

“We need to focus on Dad right now.”

“I will be as happy as you to find Dad, Virgil, but I don’t want to lose the brothers I have in the process.”

He put the wrench down and it clattered against Two’s hull. Gordon was right. Scott had been in some serious danger of never getting out of that sludge. Alan and Kayo were lucky to be alive. They had almost lost a Thunderbird to the Chaos Crew. And Thunderbird Two...both he and Penny had been at risk.

All for just the chance of more information.

“You have a point.”

“I know I do.”

Perhaps they had been a bit obsessed. But the chance, Dad needing their help, stranded so far away. Could he still be alive? This could be the rescue of their lives. But at what risk? Gordon had been stuck at home watching all of them cheat death on a simple hope.

That capsule still sat snug in the module and had yet to reveal whether it was all worth it.

Virgil bit his lip. “Dad might be still alive.”

“I really hope so. I really do, Virg. Just don’t do anything stupid and keep that eldest brother of ours from killing himself in the process.”

“I’ll do my best.”

“I know you will.” A pause. “Just sucks to be me at the moment.”

“Should I leave Penny with you next time?”

“You’d need to tie her to the chair, Virg. As you said, she’s not one to sit and watch.”

“Neither are you.”

Silence from the comms for the first time in a long time. Virgil sighed. “Ask her out, Gords. If she knows what’s good for her, she’ll say yes.”

“Yeah, maybe.” But his brother’s tone said the absolute opposite.

Looks like he would be pulling out some kind of motivational speech for his little brother in the near future. Who thought Gordon would ever need motivation of any kind? The aquanaut was usually a power source for the rest of them.

“Think about it, bro. She’d be the luckiest woman on the planet.”

“Heh.” A pause. “So, what wildlife did you puree? Got enough for identification?” That was an obvious subject change if he’d ever heard one. Okay, if that is how he wanted to play it.

“I’m thinking squid.” He reached in and grabbed a pile of jellied mush in his fortunately gloved hand and held it up so his holoreceiver could grab it. “What do you think? Look like something for dinner?”

“You took out a squid? You keep that killing green behemoth out of my ocean, Virgil.”

“Hey, it’s not like she did it on purpose.”

“Can you bring it closer?” There was a frown in his brother’s voice.

Virgil complied. Pieces of the slush slid down his arm and splashed on his undershirt. “Gross.”

“Uh, Virgil, put it down now.”

“What?”

“That’s not squid. That’s jellyfish.”

The sludge landed with a splat on Two’s hull. It left residue all over his glove and arm and shirt. “Shit!”

“Tell me you didn’t get it on your skin, Virgil. Stinger cells don’t puree.”

“Damnit!”

“Virgil!”

The gloves were tossed, the uniform followed in the most awkward undressing he had ever managed. His boots were stumbled off even more awkwardly. But nothing could hide the sudden tingling on his chest. Goddamnit, so stupid!

“Virgil, talk to me! I’m sending Scott up.”

“I’m okay. Just stupid.”

“TB4’s packs have some sting neutralising spray. I’m notifying Scott.”

His undershirt was flung onto the hull. He was never going to live this down. The tingling was fast becoming painful. A lovely array of welts outlining where the sludge had soaked through his shirt was appearing on his chest. “Unbelievable!”

“Virgil?” Scott appeared up through the forward hatch. “What the hell?”

“It was an accident.”

Of course, Penelope just had to follow his brother. So here he was standing in his undershorts on top of his bird in the middle of the ocean for all nearby female aristocrats to see.

Neither his brother or their London agent appeared to care in the slightest as they clambered across Two’s hull to reach him. “What happened? Gordon said you came in contact with a jellyfish?” Scott dumped a medkit on the hull and, opening it, pulled out a bottle of the sting spray. “Do we know what kind?”

Virgil grit his teeth. Yes, it was definitely hurting now. “Scan the slush. Just don’t touch it.”

“Send the readings to me and I’ll do the identification.” Gordon voice had lost any and all joviality.

Penny fished the scanner from Scott’s kit and did as the aquanaut asked.

“Virg?” Scott approached him with care. “Where and how bad?”

“Chest and bad enough.”

The spray was heaven on earth. Scott drenched him liberally in the chemical foam. “Anywhere else?”

“No, that little bit was enough.” Virgil let a breath out.

“Any sign of additional symptoms? C’mon, sit down, just in case.”

With a frustrated sigh, Virgil parked himself crosslegged on Two’s warm hull a decent distance from the slush scattered around the vent hatch. He glared at it. “Revenge from beyond the grave.”

“Got it.” Gordon’s voice held relief even before he spouted the needed information. “You’ve been Cannonballed, Virg.”

“What?”

“Cannonball Jellyfish. Stomolophus meleagris. You must have hit a swarm because that pile of slush makes up more than one. And don’t worry, not deadly. Usually a mild sting, but can get nasty in your eyes. I suspect that you’re really feeling it, because you’re playing with the pureed version.”

“Great.” Well, at least he wasn’t dying.

“Source says a few hours of ouch and the next day lots of itch.”

“Fantastic.” Just to make dragging his girl out of the ocean that little bit more entertaining. A put-upon sigh.

“Sit for a minute while I pump some seawater up here and wash off the living dead jellyfish.” Scott wasn’t smiling, but since it was clear now that Virgil wasn’t going to keel over on him, he could relax just a little.

“Fine.”

Penny looked up and smiled at him. It was a kind smile, despite his predicament.

He let his shoulders drop. At least the sun was warm and the breeze gentle as they danced across his shoulder blades. In a minute he would wash the mess off his chest, apply some anaesthetic cream, don a clean uniform and get back to work. But for the moment he was content to sit and watch Scott scrub down his ‘bird.

“Gordon?”

“Yeah?”

“I’ll leave the water rescues to you from now on.”

His little brother laughed over the comms. “Aww, Virg, but you did so well.”

“Hmph.” A smirk. “Penny says hi.” The blonde woman looked up at him in question.

“Virgil!”

“Yes, little bro?”

“Watch it.”

“Well, she’s now seen me in my underwear and she makes a great co-pilot...”

“As if she’d look at you twice.”

“Oh, I don’t know. She’s looking at me quite bit at the moment.” He grinned at her.

“No flexing your pecs, you hulk.”

If was Virgil’s turn to laugh. “You are aware I have you on speaker, aren’t you?”

“Shit!”

Penny’s laugh was as delicate as she.

-o-o-o-