#my candy love fanfic

[melodyalanaroster]

Under The Stars With You

The results for the Seniors’ final exams were ready and had been posted. It was finally the day the class found out if whether or not they were graduating. However, the majority of the students had something else on their minds. Most of the girls would not stop talking about what they were going to wear to the Senior Prom. “Come on Nath! Let’s go get our scores!” Alana cheered as she pulled his hand towards their homeroom. “Really? We all know you two passed. You don’t need to see your scores.” Sam laughed as she and Kentin walked up behind them. “We need to make sure.” Nathaniel smiled. When Mr. Faraize entered the room, he looked at the four of them cheerily. “Hello students.” He beamed. “Good morning sir! Where are our scores?” Alana asked, curiously. “Patience, Miss Roster. I will hand everyone’s files out as soon as class starts.” Mr. Faraize chuckled.

When everyone had taken their seats, the class was a buzz with talk about the upcoming events. “I’m gonna be Prom Queen!” Amber loudly proclaimed. “Who would vote for a vain drama queen like you?” Sam asked. “I know you and your idiot sister won’t get it!” Amber shot back. “Remember! My sister is dating your brother!” Sam popped off. “Quiet everyone!” Mister Faraize called as he picked up a stack of folders and stood at the front of the classroom. “Your exam results are in these files and will show you if any of you need to retake them to graduate. To those of you who passed on the first go, congratulations! You may spend the rest of the year focusing on Graduation and, of course, Prom. If you need to retake any of the exams, please come see me and we can schedule your retakes.” He announced. Several students looked around, worried. “I hope I passed!” Violette blurted out. “I’m sure you did fine!” Kim assured her. Mister Faraize began walking around the room and handing out folders. “Are you kidding me?! I have to retake my history exam?!” Amber shouted. “At least it’s only one test.” Lin attempted to comfort her. “I passed all mine!” Alana cheered. “I told you so!” Sam laughed. “I got all A’s!” Nathaniel beamed. Kentin looked through his file. “I barely passed Math, but I made it!” He cheered. “I wonder where mom is gonna take us to get our dresses...” Alana pondered out loud. “Probably the more aristocratic side of town... Achille is gonna be out of town this weekend, so Mom will most likely use it as an excuse to hang out with Aunt V.” Sam shrugged. “Yeah, right! Like you’re gonna get designer dresses! I doubt you’ll even get something out of a BARGAIN bin!” Amber scoffed. Sam and Alana looked at her and rolled their eyes. “You’re right Sam... Not to mention, Verity and Agatha know where to get the dresses that will look the best on us!” Alana chuckled.

“Alana! What are you gonna wear to Prom?” Rosalaya asked as they walked towards the Gym. “I bet you’re gonna wear a lovely ball gown! Just like a princess!” Alexy cheered. “Nope! I’m going for something elegant and formal. I’ve already decided that I want a floor length, blue, dress and silver accessories.” Alana explained. “That sounds lovely!” Alexy beamed. When they got to the Gym, Boris was already at work directing the students in preparation for the weekend’s festivities. “Don’t forget! There is plenty of time to nominate and vote for Prom Royalty! We need a King and Queen and runners up!” He announced. “I know who I’m gonna nominate and vote for!” Rosa cooed. “Who?” Alana asked. “It’s a secret!” Rosa smirked as she walked over to the ballot box, wrote two names on a card and dropped it in. Alana looked at her friends and thought for a couple of minutes. “You could write your own name and run for Prom Queen.” The voice in her head suggested. “No. I want it to be someone who truly deserves the title... Someone who is a great friend. And I want Prom King to be someone sweet too.” She thought back. Suddenly, the choices were obvious. “I know the perfect people to have the title.” She sighed as she walked over to the ballot box, wrote her choices down and dropped the card in. “The theme is “Under The Stars” and we are going to make this place fabulous!” Boris cheerfully called. “Don’t forget to purchase your Prom Tickets so you can get your invitations by the end of the week!” Mr. Faraize instructed as he walked into the room and began putting up decorations.

After everyone had given Mr. Faraize their money for their tickets and the Gym’s transformation had begun taking shape, the bell rang for lunch. “Alana, before we go eat, I wanna talk to you.” Nathaniel cooed. “What’s up?” Alana asked, curiously. He took her hands and looked deep into her eyes. “I know its already been implied... But... Will you g-go to Prom with me?” He asked. “Of course! I’d love to!” Alana blurted out with tears in her eyes. “Great! I’ll meet you at your apartment that night!” He beamed. Filled with joy, Alana threw her arms around him and kissed his cheek. “I can’t wait to dance with you that night!” She cheered. “Come on you two! We saved your seats!” Armin called as he poked his head around a corner. Nathaniel walked a couple of feet forward, turned around and held his hand out to her. “Shall we?”

As the day went on, several students could be heard complaining about their test scores, the loudest of which was Amber. “I still can’t believe I have to focus on my retake! I wanna put more focus on my Prom outfit and becoming queen!” She whined when she entered the classroom. “Amber, calm the frick down! All you have to do is a little bit of studying, and retake the stinking test! Then, once you at least get a somewhat passing grade, you can focus on your little fantasy!” Alana angrily huffed as she and Priya entered the room and grabbed a few items from Mister Faraize’s cupboard. “I don’t wanna hear anything from the little wretch who ruined my family, poisoned my brother against us, and took him from us!” Amber shouted. “I didn’t ruin your family! I did not poison him against you. Your brother is free to be who he wants and associate with you and your mom. He just doesn’t want anything to do with your dad, and you know why! And, I’m his GIRLFRIEND, if he wants to spend time with you, it would be wrong of me to stop that!” Alana shot back.

★

“I am so happy that we get to take you shopping as a family! This will be wonderful!” Verity loudly cheered as Sam and Alana entered their living room. “I wish Rini could be here...” Alana sighed. “I know... But she’s got her studies and Achille won’t let her leave the school until she graduates.” Verity looked down. “I’m sure that, once she graduates, she’ll be able to go shopping for more formal dresses with us another time!” Lynne beamed as she did her best to maintain an upbeat mood. “If Achille ever lets her...” Alana muttered. “Well, let us all pile into the car so we may start this fashion adventure!” Verity cooed as she motioned towards the door. “Yeah, let’s get this party started!” Sam boomed. When the ladies got out of the apartment building, they noticed a limousine parked in front of it. “Come on girls! Let’s go SHOPPING!” Agatha cheered as she stuck the top half of her body out of the sun roof of the vehicle. “Hey girls!” Seraphina smiled as she stepped out and opened one of the doors. “This is definitely going to be an event!” Alana laughed. “Oh god...” Sam chuckled. 

When everyone got settled down in the limousine, Verity looked at Sam and Alana. “So, girls, before we get started... What styles are you aiming for?” She asked. Alana was quick to describe the style that she had mentioned to Rosalaya and Alexy. “Of course you’d go with elegant and classic! I love it!” Verity cooed. “So, Sam? What about you?” Seraphina inquired. “I think I wanna go with something kind of out of my element... Something short and glittery.” Sam smirked. “Oh god, you’re aiming to drive poor Ken insane!” Alana laughed. “And what if I am? I’m not like you. I don’t aim to be a proper lady!” Sam spat. “I’m not a proper lady! I just like classic elegance!” Alana spat. “Just like a proper lady!” Agatha laughed. “Can we just go?!” Alana huffed. “Yes, let’s begin this adventure! I’ve booked the finest shop in town for this day!” Verity cheered.

The Aristocratic district of Amouria was filled to the brim with businesses that catered to the finer side of society. Towering skyscrapers, expensive apartments, high dollar enterprises, designer shops, Michelin Star restaurants, and world renowned patisseries all made the quaint, worldly, non-aristocratic side of the city look like it was an entirely different realm. “We’re going to shop for a couple of hours, then I’ve gotten us a table at Across The Universe for a late lunch or early supper! The top table in the garden of course!” Verity beamed. “This is going to be an absolutely lovely day!” Agatha cooed. “I suppose it will be!” Alana smiled as the limousine pulled up in front of a skyscraper. The group walked into the building and was greeted by a young lady at the front desk. “Mrs. Mekina, Ladies Roster, welcome to Regalia. Mademoiselle Baudelaire is waiting for you upstairs.” She nodded. “Thank you. We’ll take ourselves up there.” Verity smiled as an attendant opened the elevator and they all went upstairs. 

Mademoiselle Giselle Baudelaire had become the youngest, most sought after, fashion designer in Astaria. Having gained a reputation amongst the Astarian Aristocracy for her fine details and her fashion forward designs, it was obvious that she was going to be Verity’s choice to design the looks for her goddaughters. “Lady Verity! Welcome back to my humble studio!” The pink haired, porcelain skinned, woman with a pink eye and a yellow eye beamed as she walked up to them. “Mademoiselle Baudelaire! Its always a pleasure!” Verity cheered as the women shared a quick hug and two air kisses on the sides of each other’s heads. Giselle looked at the young ladies standing before her. “Well, well, well! I have never been able to design looks for the legendary Roster Clan! The family who has been essential in our nation’s creation and maintenance, and yet... Refuses to become part of the aristocracy. To what do I owe the pleasure?” She cheered. “Pleasure to meet you Mademoiselle Baudelaire, we are here to create my daughters’ prom looks.” Lynne announced. “Its a pleasure to meet you Miss Baudelaire. I’m Melody.” Alana politely bowed. “And I’m Sam.” Sam smirked. “It’s a pleasure to meet you too ladies. Now... Who would like to go first?” Giselle asked as she motioned for one of the girls to go stand on the platform in the middle of the room. “I will.” Alana announced. “Look at Mels taking charge!” Agatha mused.

After several minutes of Alana explaining her vision for her look, Giselle smiled as she walked around the room. “Your idea is very simplistic... I won’t be able to design and completely make it within this short time period... However... I do already have something made that wouldn’t take much alterations, if any.” She smiled as she walked into a room, rummaged around a bit and walked out carrying a floor length, deep blue, dress. “Here. Go try this on and let’s see what else we need to do to bring your vision to life.” She mused as she held the dress up for Alana to look at. “It looks great!” Alana smiled as she ran off to the dressing room. While Alana changed, Giselle asked Sam about her vision for her prom look. “I want something short, maybe a little sheer, glittery in the chest area... I’m not looking to be Prom Queen. I just wanna drive my date insane.” Sam smirked. “Samantha... You drive that poor boy mad enough as it is.” Lynne snickered. “Well... I think I have exactly what you’re looking for.... Young Miss Lafferty recently wanted a green dress, but when I made this, she threw a fit... I almost banned her from the shop for her actions...” Giselle explained as she pulled a very short green dress off of one of the racks. Just as the dress had made it’s way into Sam’s arms, Alana walked out of the dressing room wearing the blue dress that had been presented to her. “It’s a bit loose... But I love the style!” Alana observed when she made her way to the platform. “Melody! That dress is so you!” Lynne cheered. “Elegant! Absolutely radiant!” Verity cooed. “Our little Pixie Princess looks just like royalty!” Agatha mused. “Not bad, Mels!” Seraphina grinned. “We can take the dress in.... But it needs something...” Giselle stated as she looked Alana over. “I’m thinking a blue choker, a blue bracelet, blue heels, and maybe a blue clutch purse.” Alana replied. “That’s not what I mean... It needs a little... Sparkle.” Giselle observed. After a couple of minutes of thinking, the designer quickly looked up, ran off to a different part of the salon, quickly came back and draped a silver jeweled belt around Alana’s hips. “There! Just what that needed!” She mused. Alana looked in the mirror and smiled. “I love it!” She cheered. “Fantastic! I’ll get your measurements and we can take it in here within the week! Now, miss Sam, please go put on the dress that I handed you.” Giselle instructed. “Got it.” Sam nodded.

Minutes later, Sam walked out of the dressing room wearing a VERY short, green, dress that showcased an emerald, glittery, corset and a sheer, long sleeved top. “You’re wearing tights!” Lynne blurted out. “But, other than that? I think Ken will go insane!” Sam chuckled as a devilish smirk spread it’s way across her face. “I’m thinking, open toed, pumps and a silver bracelet.” Verity suggested. “Ken’s gonna have to go take a cold shower after prom.” Alana laughed. “Who is to say I’m not gonna indulge him?” Sam mischievously asked. “Really Sam? Sex on prom night is a little... American, is it not?” Alana judged. “At least we’ve been together for most of this year! Watch, I predict that, before long, Nathaniel will be whisking you away to his apartment for a night of dirty bad fun!” Sam spat. “Well, you’re both being given extra protection that night!” Lynne huffed. “Relax Lynne! You remember when you were their age! You took that poet and you both got caught doing it in his parent’s bed at the after party!” Agatha laughed. Lynne instantly looked horrified. “The girls did not know that story. Thanks for that.” She gasped. “Lynne, that is not the craziest thing you’ve done.” Seraphina joked. “Oh, yeah! What about that time she ran off with the Black Knight from that Ren Faire?” Agatha asked. “Aren’t you still wondering if he’s Melody’s father?” Verity asked. “Wait, what? Mom, is my biological father the Black Knight?” Alana asked, confused. “Enough! Melody, what does it matter? You are a Roster. You are my daughter, and if you choose to take on the role, you will be the head of the family when I step down.” Lynne boomed. “Geez mom... I was just asking...” Alana blurted out as she looked at her mother, bewildered. “Well... Ladies, I think we have found the perfect dresses for the girls! They’ll need to be fitted one more time a couple of days before the event, so I’ll need them here on this day at this time.” Giselle announced as she tapped on a tablet and showed it to Lynne. “We can do that. How much is this going to cost?” Lynne nodded. “Don’t worry about the cost, Lynne. I’m paying for it.” Verity beamed.

Later that day, the group of women sat at the top garden table at Across The Universe and ate their food. “Did you hear? The Royal Family has ordered that the new Cultural Center that’s being built in Amouria become the tallest building on this side of Europe. And they want it done in record time.” Verity chattered. “Really? Did they throw out the original builders?” Lynne asked. “Yeah. Apparently, they’ve gotten architects, engineers, and designers from Dubai to take over the project with the orders to get it done in five years.” Verity explained. “That’s gonna suck for this place... Across The Universe is known for having the highest restaurant on this side of Europe. What’s gonna happen if another tower blocks the view from up here?” Alana asked. “The tower is only going to block the view of the mountains. We can still see the sea from up here.” Verity clarified. “Well... We’ll have to visit the top observation deck when its finished.” Sam chuckled. “I think so too! It’ll be fun!” Agatha mused. “Another family outing for the future? I’m okay with that.” Seraphina nodded.

★

“Well! My dress is going to be from the best designer in France!” Amber boasted. “Ah... Yes, what crime did your father have to commit to get Antoine Moulin to sell you one of his pieces?” Sam cackled as she and Alana walked past Amber and her crew in the main hallway. “He didn’t commit any crime! Anyway, it’ll be better than anyone who sold you two dresses!” Amber spat. “As if Giselle Baudelaire is a hack...” Alana smirked. “How did YOU get dresses from Regalia?” Li asked, insulted. “Aunt Verity often gets clothes from her shop. She was quite happy to service the Roster Clan.” Alana chuckled. “You keep forgetting something major, sweetheart... By basic societal standards, compared to us, you are vermin. We choose to not be aristocracy... But that doesn’t stop King Julius from hoping that his little son will pick one of the two of us for his bride. That doesn’t stop the Astier Clan from praying to the gods that, one day, we will finally take the titles that they have been trying to give our family ever since the first true Astarian King ascended the throne.” Sam snickered. “That also doesn’t stop the legends of our family being monster hunters from continuing to stand the test of time. And don’t get me started on how the history of the Roster Clan is also the history of the city of Weathering. Amber, we should not be forced to be somewhat classist towards you... Yet, here we are.” Alana remarked. “Oh, by the way, its not just our dresses that are being done by Regalia...” Sam began. “What do you mean?” Amber angrily inquired. “Nathaniel and Kentin are getting their suits from there as well.” Alana smirked.

★

The closer Prom got, the more excited everyone became. Not long after Prom, Graduation would happen and everyone would be off to college. Although, Alana had started taking longer looks at her mother at times, as Lynne had begun coughing more and more with each passing day. “She’s probably just got something in her throat! I wouldn’t worry too much about it!” Rosalaya cheered. “For several days straight?” Alana asked. “You know your mom. I’m sure she’ll go to the doctor and see that she’s right as rain!” Rosalaya reassured her. “I really hope you’re right... She’s been spending an awful lot of time around Carol too...” Alana sadly sighed. “Alana... Your mom is going to be okay! Its not your job to worry about her health and make sure she’s good. Now, focus on the fact that, in just a couple more days, you’ll be dancing the night away with your prince charming!” Rosalaya mused. “You’re right! I should be more focused on looking amazing for when I’m able to be in Nathaniel’s arms as his princess!” Alana cooed.

★

“I can’t believe the girls are off to their Senior Prom!” Lynne coughed as the girls finished prepping for the event. “Lynne, don’t stress yourself too much! The doctors still don’t know what’s wrong!” Verity soothed. “I’m gonna be fine! I’m just excited to see my daughters all dressed up!” Lynne hissed. Sam stepped out of her room as she straightened out the bottom of her dress. “Watch out! This’ll probably be the last time you see me dressed up like this!” Sam confidently snapped. “This will definitely not be the last time you see me dressed like this! I love it too much!” Alana cheered as she stepped out of her room and joined her sister. The girls wore their clothes with pride. Sam’s hair was pulled over to her right side in a simple hair tie and decorated with a shiny green hair ribbon. Alana’s hair was done in a princess like up-do with flowers along the top like a crown. “Look at my girls!” Lynne had begun to sob as she and Agatha instantly jumped into a frenzy of photo taking. Alana looked at Verity with pleading eyes and mouthed “Help us!”. “Come on now ladies! I’m sure the boys are waiting right outside the door, too nervous to knock! Let’s get our princesses to their princes and the young couples to their carriage!” Verity excitedly urged. “But the boys aren’t even here yet!” Agatha whined. “Actually, they’re both outside. Kentin is freaking out over the fact that you guys have a limo waiting for us!” Sam pointed out as she put her phone back in her bag. “Wait, you guys have a limo for us? I thought you guys didn’t like that level of pageantry!” Alana blurted out. “Its your Senior Prom. You only get one! Let us have our fun and make you two the stars of this show!” Lynne mused. “Now, come on you four! Get in front of the limo so we can take pictures!” Agatha cheered. “First all four of you, then we want pics of the girls, then the boys, then each couple!” Lynne demanded. 

What felt like hours passed before the women would let them into the limo and send them off to the event. “I know that was only a few minutes, but it felt like an eternity!” Sam whined as the car pulled away from the apartment. “I’m not even sure why they got a limo.... The apartment isn’t even that far from the school...” Alana commented. “I think its sweet. Your family adores you two enough to shower you with love and affection, and make a fuss over you when its important.” Nathaniel smiled. “Well... The one thing I’m looking forward to the most is dancing the night away in your arms.” Alana cooed as she looked at him lovingly. “I-I can’t wait to spend the whole evening with you... My princess.” He whispered into her ear. Excitement instantly shot through Alana’s nerves like a bolt of electricity and radiated throughout her body. “Watch it you two... Mom did offer to get us both hotel rooms in case we wanted to have our own little “after parties”...” Sam cackled. “WHAT?!” Nathaniel and Kentin blurted out in unison. “Yeah... Apparently Mom’s Prom was crazy... So she’s got funds set aside for whatever we might need... Including hotel rooms and extra protection...” Sam explained. “Is this true?” Nathaniel asked Alana, bewildered. “Yep.” Alana nodded. “Holy hell...” Kentin gasped. “I d-don’t think w-we’ll need a h-hotel room tonight...” Nathaniel blushed. “I’m not sure if we’re there just yet.” Alana blushed. “The fuck you’re not?! You’ve been wanting to mount him for a while!” The voice in her head boomed. “We haven’t been together long! Its not appropriate!” She thought back. “Suit yourself... We’ll probably have other plans...” Sam smirked. “Ladies and gentlemen, we have arrived.” The driver announced as he pulled the limo to a stop. “You ready for this?” Alana asked Nathaniel. “Of course.” He sweetly smiled.

The driver opened the door and the two couples were hit by a tsunami of clicking cameras, lights, and people rushing to greet them. “GUYS! You look amazing!” Rosalaya cheered. “Thanks you and Leigh look fantastic!” Alana mused as she hugged Rosa. “Thank you!” Rosa beamed. Several members of the Photography Club took their pictures as Rosa walked ahead of the group and lead them into the Gym. “Dance floor?” Sam asked Ken. “Already?” Ken inquired. “Yes.” Sam blushed. “Okay then.” Ken smiled as he began leading her to the center of the dancefloor. The DJ began to play “Clarity” by Zedd featuring Foxes. "Look who it is!” Armin beamed when he saw them. “Hey! You don’t look too shabby!” Alana chuckled. “Hey man!” Nathaniel smiled. “You two look great!” Iris cooed. “Did you not get a date?” Alana asked. “Nah. Decided to come stag with Alexy.” Armin shrugged. “Ah, that’s sweet.” She smiled. “I hope we dance to a really romantic song...” She thought. “Ah... Yes... The DJ will most likely play “A Thousand Years” and Nathaniel will whisk you onto the dancefloor.” The voice in her head snickered. “I actually hope that happens!” She thought back. “A bunch of us girls came as a group! Melody is hanging out with Peggy. Kim is over there dancing with Violette. Priya has already teased Amber for not being asked by anyone. And Lysander and Castiel came stag.” Iris explained as she pointed everyone out. “Kim and Violette look great together! Almost like a couple!” Alana cheered. “I don’t see it.” Nathaniel shrugged. “I do.” Priya chuckled as she walked up to them.

“Nathaniel and Alana look great together.” Lysander pointed out as he and Castiel stood by a secluded set of chairs. “I suppose they do...” Castiel huffed. “Do you really love her?” Lysander quietly asked. “I think I do.” Castiel nodded. “Then you should be happy that she’s happy.” Lysander sighed. “I should have asked her... I should have taken my shot a while ago.” Castiel muttered. “But, you didn’t. You can’t dwell on what you should have done. Focus on what you’re going to do moving forward. Just be happy that you’re her friend.” Lysander reassured. “You’re not wrong... I just... Wish she wasn’t so out of reach.” Castiel sighed. “So, you’re actually pining over her?” Rosalaya asked as she and Leigh walked up to them. “He is.” Lysander nodded. “I mean... Whose to say that she and Nathaniel will be together forever? They’re not as established as Leigh and me. Maybe sometime down the road, you’ll have your chance.” Rosa shrugged as she put her hand on Castiel’s shoulder. The four of them looked at Nathaniel and Alana, who were laughing and making jokes with Sam, Kentin and Armin. The song “Man On A Wire” by The Script had begun to play. “Rosa, don’t give him false hope. The best thing for him would be to just be happy that she’s happy and they’re friends.” Leigh pointed out. “Literally what Lysander just said.” Castiel rolled his eyes.

“Nathaniel, Alana! You guys look amazing!” Peggy beamed as she, Melody and Sharon walked up to them. “Thank you! You three look sublime!” Alana cheered. “Not gonna lie, I kinda hope you two get Prom King and Queen.” Sharon mused. “It’d be nice if Amber doesn’t get it.” Peggy remarked. “I’m kinda hoping that I get it.” Melody muttered. “I don’t think I’ll get it. But I hope that whoever I voted for does.” Alana smiled. “Who did you vote for?” Sharon asked. “Rosalaya.” Alana replied. “She’d be a great Prom Queen.” Peggy nodded. “Nathaniel, who did you vote for?” Melody asked. “I’m not gonna say. I’d rather just see who won.” Nathaniel stated. “A very diplomatic answer from a very diplomatic person.” Sharon grinned. “A good quote for the next issue of the School Newspaper!” Peggy cooed. “It’ll be the final edition with you two running the club, isn’t it?” Alana asked. “Yeah! But our apprentices are gonna handle it well. I have faith in them.” Sharon assured. “Natasha and Nick are good kids.” Peggy agreed. “I kinda hope that you two get the crowns.” Kim grinned as she and Violette approached them. “I think you two would be great.” Violette chirped. “When will they announce the winners?” Alana asked. “Should be soon. They wanna do it before they begin the slow dances.” Sharon explained.

It wasn’t long before the DJ stopped the music and Mr. Faraize took to the stage. “Good evening everyone! I hope you are all having fun on this lovely night!” He greeted. Several students cheered “YEAH!” in response. “Good! Not too much fun I hope!” He chuckled before his face turned a little serious. “Historically, Sweet Amouris High School has never taken part in the tradition of “Prom Royalty”. Unlike most high schools, we’ve never seen the point in this kind of popularity contest. However, this year, we resolved to change that. Other schools throughout our country have adopted this American tradition as a form of pageantry and we’ve decided to join in on the “fun”. You seniors have worked very hard and earned more celebration than just a dance. So, while only four of you will be receiving tiaras and crowns tonight; Just know, you’re all kings and queens to us.” He began. Mr. Faraize motioned for the DJ to begin playing very low music as Boris brought out a rolling table with two sets of tiaras and crowns on it. Boris then handed a very large pink envelope to Mr. Faraize, who then took out and unfolded a large piece of paper. “Your Sweet Amouris High School Prom King and Queen Runners Up are Alana Roster and Nathaniel Jacott!” He announced. “YAY!”, “GO ALANA AND NATHANIEL!”, “YOU GUYS DESERVE IT!” several students cheered. “What?!” Alana gasped. “Mels! Nath! Go! Get crowned!” Sam huffed as she pushed the pair towards the stage. “Go! Leigh and I made the crowns and tiaras for this!” Rosalaya urged as the students made a path for the pair to get to the stage. Nathaniel took Alana’s arm and proudly escorted her to the stage. “Congratulations you two!” Boris cheered as they bowed their heads before them. He placed the silver crown and tiara on their heads with great care. “The tiaras look like something straight out of Barbie: Princess Charm School.” Alana thought. “The crowns look like they’re right out of Disney movies.” The voice in her head piped up. When Nathaniel and Alana took their places by Boris on the stage, Mr. Faraize looked at the paper in his hand. “Your Sweet Amouris High School Prom King and Queen are Castiel Veilmont and Rosalaya de Meilhan!” He announced. “Castiel is Prom King but I’m not Prom Queen! This was rigged!” Amber shouted. “I’m not gonna get that crown.” Castiel huffed. “Come on! You won, fair and square. Now get over yourself and get crowned!” Rosalaya glared daggers into him as she grabbed his hand and dragged him up to the stage. Once the gold crown and tiara were on Castiel’s and Rosalaya’s heads, Boris instructed the four of them to stand on stage and pose long enough for photos to be taken and the balloons to be dropped from the net. The DJ turned the music up and started playing “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons. “So? You and Leigh made the headwear? They look like you took them straight out of Disney and Barbie movies!” Alana laughed. “I was told to make them go with the theme of the school and that if this goes well, Leigh would be commissioned to make them every year for each class!” Rosa resounded. “They look fantastic Rosa!” Nathaniel mused. “I was hoping you two would be King and Queen. But, I’m happy that you guys at least got the Runners Up!” Rosa smiled. “I actually voted for you and Castiel to be King and Queen.” Alana happily shrugged. “You voted for me to be Prom King?” Castiel blushed. “Yeah, I thought it would be nice. The bad boy with the heart of gold getting some recognition for once.” Alana grinned.

The second they were allowed off stage, they took the opportunity to rejoin everyone. Student after student began to walk up to them and congratulate them. “I expect a picture perfect slow dance you two!” Sharon ordered Nathaniel and Alana. “I think we can make that happen!” Nathaniel blushed as he looked at Alana lovingly. “Hey, have any of you seen Amber?” Li asked as she walked up to them. “No. I haven’t even heard her since she got pissed about not winning.” Nathaniel shrugged. “She might be in the girls bathroom. I’ll go look.” Alana sighed as she walked towards the locker room. The sight that greeted her was absolutely horrific. “I THINK I’M GONNA VOMIT!” The voice in her head piped up. Amber was in the locker room. However, she was pressed up against the wall, lip locked with Armin. Alana quickly grabbed her phone, held it up high enough to get the pair into frame, quietly took a picture, slipped her phone back into her pocket and silently left the locker room. “Why did you take a picture of that sin?!” The voice in her head asked. “In case either of them piss me off in the future.” She thought back. “Are you gonna tell Nathaniel?” The voice in her head asked. “No. I’m not gonna tell Nathaniel that his best friend was in the locker room making out with his sister.” She thought back. “Why not?” The voice asked. “Because its not appropriate. If they feel like he needs to know, one of them will tell him.” She thought back. “Did you find her?” Nathaniel asked, almost a little frantic the second he saw her come out of the locker room. “Don’t worry. She’s just in there cleaning herself up and putting herself back together after her little tantrum. She’ll be fine.” Alana reassured him.

Shortly after Amber emerged from the locker room, she ran up to Nathaniel and demanded a dance from her brother. “NATHANIEL! Dance with me!” She whined. “Amber! I was gonna dance with Alana.” Nathaniel called back. “Give your sister a dance, we will have our slow dance before the night is done.” Alana smiled. “Does this mean I get a dance with the Runner Up?” Castiel smirked as he sauntered over to them. “No.” Nathaniel shot. “Nathaniel! He and I are JUST FRIENDS! It’d be like if Armin asked me for a dance! Go be a good brother and dance with your sister!” Alana huffed. Nathaniel gave her a look that said “Are you sure?”. “Yes.” Alana reassured him. “Okay. Amber, let’s go.” Nathaniel looked at his sister and sighed. “Shall we?” Castiel asked as he lead Alana to the dance floor. The DJ began to play “Everything You Want” by Vertical Horizon. “Is this really a song to dance to?” Alana pondered. “I would have thought you could dance to anything.” Castiel bantered. He pulled her closer to him and lead her into more of a waltz. “I mean... Its kind of weird for Nathaniel and his sister to dance to this song...” Alana replied. “So, its not weird for us to dance to it?” Castiel inquired. “Its not as if you’re interested in me, right? You’ve made it clear that you and I are just good friends. That the girls you’re actually into have bigger... Assets... And aren’t into pop music at all, like I am. Even if you were into me, you know you wouldn’t be able to be with me. I’m with Nathaniel.” Alana articulated. Castiel did everything in his power to hide the fact that Alana’s words were like a shot to the chest to him. “Yeah... I don’t like girls who sing to Taylor Swift!” He laughed. “Who told you!” Alana blurted out. “You did, just now!” His laughter boomed. “I like her music! Sue me!” Alana huffed. The song turned to “Just The Way You Are” by Bruno Mars. “Anyway... Seriously, why did you nominate me for Prom King?” He asked as he looked deep into her eyes. “I wasn’t lying when I said what I said on stage. Cass, don’t get me wrong, you’re a jackass. But, underneath it all, you’re a really great guy with a very kind heart. Despite everything, even your own pride, you end up doing what’s right... Even if you need to be slapped first. Hell, you even put aside your differences with Nathaniel to help him get away from his father. Its obvious that you put the needs of the people you care about above your own. You made that crystal clear when Lysander got hurt. Everyone talks about how Rosa, Lysander, Alexy, Nathaniel, Sam and I all help people and show kindness... But, they never talk about how sweet and selfless you actually are. I thought you deserved some recognition.” She explained. The shot to Castiel’s chest was then worsened by one of Cupid’s arrows going through the hole. He quickly twirled her around so in an effort to keep her from seeing him blush. He looked up and noticed Nathaniel staring daggers into him. As the song came to a close, he stopped their dance and kissed her hand. “I’m really glad you’re my friend.” He muttered barely loud enough for her to hear. “Watch it Cass! You don’t want everyone finding out your secret!” Alana chuckled. She pulled out her phone, wrote up a text and sent it before rejoining Nathaniel’s side. Castiel felt his phone vibrate, pulled it out, read the message smiled and walked back over to Lysander. “I guess, she really will always be just out of reach for me.” He muttered. “I’m really glad you’re my friend, too.”                                                      - MR

“You and Castiel danced for at least two songs. He must have really wanted to talk! Although, I don’t know WHAT he would have wanted to talk to YOU about!” Amber huffed. “You know what, Amber? Everyone knows that you’ve been wanting to dance with him all night. You threw a fit a few minutes ago over the fact that he got crowned Prom King and you weren’t his Queen! Go and take charge of your life for once and ask him! The worst he can do is say “no”!” Alana blurted out. “YEAH!”, “YOU TELL HER ALANA!” several students cheered. “After he’s danced with you? I could never!” Amber scoffed. “What do you have to lose?! Its the end of the year and after graduation, you don’t know if you’ll ever see him again.” Alana raised an eyebrow. “Fine!” Amber huffed she gathered her confidence and walked over to Castiel. “What did you two talk about?” Nathaniel asked. “He just wanted more of an explanation as to why I nominated him for Prom King.” Alana flatly replied. “Why didn’t you nominate me?” He pushed a little further. “Because it would have been conceited for me to nominate my own boyfriend for it. I nominated Cass and Rosa for King and Queen and then Sam and Ken for the Runners Up.” She clarified. Nathaniel looked down, almost a little embarrassed. “I nominated us for King and Queen and Sam and Ken for the Runners Up.” He muttered. A wave of love crashed into Alana. “Oh my god! Nathaniel! You’re too cute! You know that, right?” She gushed. “Really? You just said that you thought nominating us was conceited.” Nathaniel sputtered. “Yeah, but you still did it! I thought you would have nominated someone else! Its cute!” Alana cooed. The couple looked at the dancefloor and watched Sam melt into Ken’s arms as the DJ played “Never Knew I Needed” by Ne-Yo. “I think they should have gotten some form of recognition.” Nathaniel commented. “Yeah, but at least they’re happy for us getting it.” Alana smiled. “Your sister is such a hard-ass. Even though she’s been with Ken all this time, its still weird to see her vulnerable.” Nathaniel observed. “Sam is only this way because she wants me to be the soft one out of the two of us. But it is good to see her be soft every once in a while.” Alana replied. “Come on Castiel! You danced with Alana!” Amber called as Castiel walked away from her. “Alana’s not a self absorbed, whiny, entitled, brat like you! Find someone else to dance with you!” Castiel shouted back. He continued walking in the direction of the courtyard. “Well... I was wrong. He did say something worse than “No.”... Whoops!” Alana shrugged. “I should go console her.” Nathaniel suggested. “No, Nathaniel. She’s a grown woman, she can handle this rejection. Aside from that, Li is here and can be there for her if need be.” Alana shook her head. “I mean... He’s not wrong.” Armin commented as he joined the pair. “Why don’t you ask her to dance? You’re her brother’s best friend, it might be considered doing him a favor.” Alana suggested. “Me? No.” Armin began. He turned to Nathaniel and put his hand on his shoulder. “No offense, man... But your sister is a beast.” Armin cringed. “That’s not what I saw earlier!” Alana thought. “Send Armin the pic of him kissing Amber!” the voice in her head cheered. “Nope! He hasn’t pissed me off!” Alana thought back. “Yeah... I know.” Nathaniel exhaustedly sighed. Alana rolled her eyes. “I still think it would be nice. Go take one for the team!” She urged. “Nah! But if you wanna dance, let me know! As it is, I think I’m gonna go see if Alexy needs me for anything!” Armin rushed off.

“Alright everyone! I haven’t seen our Runners Up formally take to the dance floor! It’s time to change that!” Boris announced as he took the mic from the DJ. “Mister DJ, we all know that Miss Roster and Mister Jacott are the “Big Couple On Campus”, so play them something extra special!” He requested, his voice sounding more flamboyant than usual. A spotlight was then turned to Nathaniel and Alana and followed them as they made their way to the center of the dancefloor. As the first notes to “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri began to play, Nathaniel stood before her and bowed. “May I have this dance, my queen?” He lovingly asked. Tears instantly came to Alana’s eyes. “You may, my king.” She purred as he took one hand in hers and placed his other hand on the center of the top of her back. She placed her other hand on his right shoulder. “FUCKING FINALLY!” The voice in Alana’s head shouted. “When did you learn how to dance like this?” She asked Nathaniel as he lead her into a very elegant slow dance. “My parents thought it would be proper for Amber and me to learn it.” He did his best to hide the pain of mentioning his parents. “And you?” He asked. “My two best friends are part of the aristocracy. Aunt Verity and Aunt Cosima convinced my mom to put Sam and me in the same classes as Viktor and Rini.” She explained. “I’ll have to thank Verity when I finally get a chance to formally meet her. And, maybe, I can thank your aunt Cosima at her grave one day.” he blushed. “That sounds like a really nice idea.” She admitted. As they continued to dance, the song changed to “A Thousand Years Part Two”, as if the DJ knew their dance needed to be longer. “Alana... I love you.” Nathaniel admitted as they swept across the dancefloor. “What?!” Alana breathed. She looked into his eyes, a combination of love and shock overcoming her facial expression. “Look, I know we’re only seventeen years old. That this is high school romance. That we could grow old and grow apart one day. But, I need to tell you, now. Melody Alana Roster, I love you. I don’t know what the future holds. And I can’t promise that you and I will always be together. But I love you. I’ve loved you almost since the first day you walked through that classroom door. And I love you now.” Nathaniel professed. The song changed to “This I Promise You” by *NSYNC while Alana gathered her thoughts and they prolonged their dance. She wanted to give him this massive speech of how much she’s loved him since her early days at Sweet Amoris. However, the only words that truly fit the moment were short and sweet. “Nathaniel... I love you too. I love you with everything I have.” She almost began weeping as she spoke. Her mind then turned to the idea of walking down the aisle to meet him and become his wife. “Either you become a Jacott, or he becomes a Roster!” The voice in her head piped up. “I have a feeling that, if he and I do get married, he’ll become a Roster.” She quickly thought back. As the songs ended, the two shared a deep, romantic, kiss. “I love you, my sweet Melody.” He purred. “I love you too, my darling Nathaniel.” She cooed.

“Alright, sis! Take your stuff back. Ken and I are getting out of here!” Sam announced as she stormed the dancefloor and handed Alana her purse back to her. “You could have waited for us to get off of the dancefloor?! You didn’t see me ruining YOUR moment!” Alana exasperated. “Yeah, well... I think its high time I go make Ken a man!” Sam announced. “You also didn’t need to announce that to the whole school! You don’t see Rosa and Leigh announcing their “after prom plans” to everyone!” Alana barked. “I know! But I knew it would make you two uncomfortable! Let’s go Ken!” Sam laughed as she started walking out of the gym. “Sorry guys! You two looked amazing and it was a lot of fun!” Ken shrugged before he followed Sam out. Alana looked down for a minute. “What’s wrong?” Nathaniel asked. “You know... We could take the offer to get a hotel room...” Alana suggested as her face became a deep shade of red. “No.” Nathaniel shook his head. “Why not?” Alana nervously inquired. “I don’t want your first time to be in some random hotel room. Alana, I have the chance to make your first time as special as possible... And I’m going to do exactly that. You deserve it.” He sweetly smiled as he caressed the side of her face with his fingertips. “Oh Nathaniel...” Alana breathed. “I love you Alana. When I finally lay you down, I want you to enjoy every second of it. Even if it means I end up doing all the cliché stuff to turn my apartment into the most romantic place in the world.” He purred.

As the night drew to a close, Alana couldn’t keep her mind off of the idea of making love with Nathaniel. She wanted it. She knew she wanted it. And she knew that she wanted her first time to be with him. Out of all of the other boys she’d ever met, and between him and Viktor, she wanted to give herself to Nathaniel completely. “Maybe after graduation?” the voice in her head asked. “I’m not sure. But I hope its soon.” She thought back. Nathaniel took her back to her apartment, only for the two of them to discover a note taped to the front door. “Mom says that she’s sleeping at Agatha’s tonight. She and Seraphina got into a bit of a drinking game and they both basically lost. I’ve got the apartment to myself.” She explained as Nathaniel gave her a questioning look. “Well, that’s almost convenient.” He blushed. “You could stay the night, rather than walk all the way back to your apartment...” She suggested. “I could... But, Blanche is probably missing me... And I would have to sleep in nothing but my underwear...” Nathaniel replied. “You could go home in the morning after I make us breakfast. I’m sure Blanche has enough food and water to get through to tomorrow... And, its not like its the first time we’ve been in bed together with you in nothing but your underwear and me in pajamas... Its just, this time would be under much better circumstances.” Alana urged. “Societal pressure would dictate....” Nathaniel began. “As it is, its also not like we’d be doing anything sexy anyway! I’m too tired to give informed consent! We’d just be sleeping in the same bed and waking up together! At most, we’ll end up spooning or maybe getting in a couple of kisses! And that’s IF Sylvester doesn’t decide to sleep on top of us!” Alana nervously chuckled. Nathaniel thought for a couple of minutes. “Alright. But, next time, you’re sleeping at my place.” He yawned. “Of course!” Alana smiled as she let out a long yawn.

Several memories passed through Alana’s mind as she held her sleeping boyfriend in her arms. The memory of the day they met. The first time he made her heart beat fast. Their argument when she exposed the abuse his father put him through. The day she helped him get Blanche. The hug he gave her when she slipped and fell out of the tree in the park and was caught by Castiel. The party at Iris’ house. The attempt at a double date with Rosa and Leigh. Their first kiss in the Sweet Amoris High School library. The fresh memories of Prom. The memories then shifted into hopeful visions of their future. The first time they make love. Going to college together. Introducing him to all of her family in Scotland and Ireland. Becoming his wife. One vision finally pushed Alana into the realm of dreams and sleep... The vision of herself, one day, holding their newborn.

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This technically covers episode 39. Giselle Baudelaire is a reference to Giselle from Enchanted, and the Baudelaire family from A Series of Unfortunate Events.

I know that Prom King and Queen and the runners up are typically an American thing... But, I wanted to include them in this chapter. I was gonna make Lysander Prom King, but I figured Castiel would be more popular according to High School Hierarchy.

The cultural center tower that’s mentioned in the Dress Shopping section is what ultimately becomes The Black Tower.

Lynne coughing sets up her getting sick and having to leave the country for treatment.

Antoine Moulin is a slight reference to Moulin Rouge and Marie Antoinette.

Natasha and Nick (Peggy’s and Sharon’s apprentices) are also Marvel references. Just as I have Peggy and Sharon referencing Peggy and Sharon Carter, Natasha references Natasha Romanoff and Nick references Nick Fury.

Songs directly mentioned in this chapter: “Clarity” by Zedd ft. Foxes “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri “Man On A Wire” by The Script “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons “Everything You Want” by Vertical Horizon “Just The Way You Are” by Bruno Mars “Never Knew I Needed” by Ne-Yo “A Thousand Years Part 2″ by Christina Perry Ft Steve Kazee “This I Promise You” by *NSYNC Honorable Mention: “When The Stars Go Blue” by Tim McGraw I wanted to bring this song up, but couldn’t find the right place for it.

I was honestly considering making that final paragraph more nsfw... But I decided against it and wanted to make it more sweet and romantic. With the way the story goes, every last thing that Alana envisions for their future comes to pass.

[mclangel]

Hi dear, how are you? I hesitated a lot before sending this message, but I really love your writing; it's exactly what I've been looking for for a long time. Finally, someone explores Nath's trauma in the best way, and while it's distressing, it's so satisfying. I love the whole plot and the issues you've developed, and Nathaniel's personality is perfect. But, like every reader, I can't help but be anxious and ask: when is Chapter 3 coming?

Yes, as a writer, I completely understand that chapters require care when being written, and I'm not pressuring you. However, I also need to know more, to read and reread as many times as necessary. I want to know more aaaa, I love it so much. I hope every day for an update or at least another preview or a date for new chapters, but I'll wait patiently. Take care, rest, and you're very talented. Kisses of light.

Hello my dear!!

Wow this is so touching, I do not feel pressured at all no worries! I do love this fic a lot, but I did start it with the knowledge it was going to be a slow-updater (sorry!) - but I have been working on it in the spare time I have from work! I am so glad to know you enjoy it! Nath's trauma is such a central point of his story, but I find a lot of fic writers either ignore it or try and change him automatically. And they left us with such a great jumping off point in the final few episodes of Love Life, I just couldn't resist.

I'm still unsure of a release date for chapter 3, but this ask has definitely inspired me! Thank you so much for your words, they mean so much. And just for you, I can give you a tiny preview of the next chapter <3 Mwah

[marchiveeee]

🌻 If you get this, answer with 3 random facts about yourself and send it to the last 7 blogs in your notifications, anonymously or not! Let's get to know the person behind the blog 🌻.

enjoyyy

Oh heyy!

So,

I spend my days listening to Brazilian politics and true crime podcasts while I do whatever I gotta do.

My first MCL fanfiction (and my first five ever I guess) was posted probably in 2014 but I think I deleted it idk, I never found it and I lost my account on Nyah! (It was posted in Portuguese)

I'm super into astrology and tarot and I do readings of both natal charts and tarot cards for my friends and family.

[allmcl]

Hey! Thanks for writing fanfics!! I want to make a request: Nathaniel, pregnant Candy (you decide how long the pregnancy takes) and lots of cuteness, please!!❤️🥺

Sorry for my English, it's not my first language

NATHANIEL AND PREGNANT CANDY . . .

Where you see Nathaniel leave his past behind and learn to be an exemplary father to your baby, and to be the best life partner you could ask for.

pairing. nathaniel carello x f!reader

genre. fluff.

setting. established relatonship, both are aged up and live together. this situates in mcl love life!!

content warning. kissing, crying, mentions of his past trauma, and nath being a total husband material just because he loves you too much.

author’s note. FIRST, I WANT TO APOLOGIZE, i really didn´t know how to make it a fanfic so i decided to do it like a headcanon (tysm for requesting!!, i hope you like this anyway TuT) also this is so long for no reason??

✧. - ̗̀ WHEN YOU TOLD HIM THE NEWS . . .

I think when you had to tell Nathaniel the big news, you would have been nervous. And not because you thought he would take it badly. I think that although Nathaniel has changed a lot over the years, mainly since what happened with his father, which I also think influences a lot, his desire to start a family as the independent adult that he is now would have constantly been a topic that you two would have mentioned a lot in your relationship.

The way you told him was probably much simpler than you might have imagined, but you were so wrapped up in your worries that you couldn't think of a creative way to do it. You just nedeed to get it out of your head. Hiding it would only make it worse. So you decided to break the news to him the same day you found about it.

It was late, almost dawn when you heard Nathaniel announce his arrival at the house. His guard shift had extended longer than he expected, but even so, he always knew that you were waiting for him (probably awake), so he didn't worry about making noise.

Seeing you appear, he couldn't help but smile widely. "I couldn't wait to get home." His words made you smile and Nathaniel rushed to welcome you into his arms, inhaling your scent with his head on your neck. The silence was loud at the moment, and before you could think...

"I'm pregnant." You felt his body tense violently against yours, and you immediately regretted not having waited for a better moment. But now all that was left was to wait for his reaction.

Carefully, Nathaniel pulled away a little to look at you, worse still holding you in his arms. You felt your heart pound against your chest, your entire body weakened and you felt like you were about to cry. His face was particularly neutral, although surprise was evident in his eyes. Nathaniel stayed for a few seconds contemplating the situation, a million thoughts running through his head.

And as you were about to speak again, a little scream escaped you as Nathaniel lifted you into the air, doing a small spin before lowering you down and attacking your lips soothingly. He held your face, and tangled his hands in your hair. The energy in the kiss unsettled you, but you held back.

"I thought…" Your voice sounded strangled, you breathed heavily in the middle of the kiss. "I didn't know you'd think.." You confessed, the feeling of relief calming you and you felt a smile escape as you saw tears sweeling in his eyes that he somehow managed to stop from falling.

"My love.." Nathaniel managed to say before he started laughing and smiling so much that he looked like a little child receiving a candy. "This is the best news I've ever received in my life, y/n" He murmured, pressing his forehead to yours. He sound so sure you couldn´t help but hold him tighter.

"But…your job.." You whispered.

"Don't think about any of that, we'll fix it. We'll find a way." Nathaniel interrupted you to reassure you. "Everything will be okay. I'm here."

And with that, you knew that, indeed, it would be.

✧. - ̗̀ HOW DID HE TOOK CARE OF YOU? . . .

I think everything about pregnancy would be a complete challenge for him. Not only because his job rarely allowed him to stay with you as long as he would have wanted, but because he didn't want to miss absolutely ANYTHING.

He always does his best to share the little moments with you. Since he found out, he loves sleeping with his head on your belly, he feels that in some way he protects the baby. And everytime he feels his little kicks, his whole heart melts instantly.

Every time you decide to do something that he considers dangerous, he goes into POLICE MODE, immediately. He starts reproaching you about why you should be resting and starts giving you orders, which at a certain point ends up bothering you. He always ends up apologizing, but you know he's just scared and you appreciate that he cares so much.

Also, I have the thought that many times you found him crying, and whenever you asked, he told you it was because he was afraid. (Have to add that Nath, always knows how to communicate with you, something you´re alway glad for and that he learned to you while he started giving you all his trust.)

Rather, he was worried. His worst terror was becoming a bad father. You knew that although years had passed since the incident with his family, it is the type of wound that never heals. So although Nathaniel would never have worried about that but, now that he had the responsibility of raising a baby, it was the only thing that came to his mind.

But Nathaniel is so in love with you, he knew that as long as you were there everything would be fine. So you always know how to calm him down when his anxiety starts to eat away at him. And he will always be grateful for that, and of course for everything you always do for him.

Another thing is that I feel that since he almost never had time to stay at home so much, he didn't really know how to do certain chores (I mean, he knew, he just wasn´t too experienced about it.)

But now that he basically forced you to stay in bed resting, he was forced to learn to make simple dishes, clean from time to time and keep everything in order.

On the other hand, getting up at such late hours of the morning to indulge in those strange cravings that you had in the middle of the night became routine.

And as expected, it didn't really supposed a problem, Nathaniel was already used to being awake at that hour on patrol.

I think a moment that stands out was when they told Amber, who immediately started crying and asking so many questions that Nath had to tell her to calm down so as not to overwhelm her. While everything was happening, you couldn't stop thinking about how things changed.

In high school, you were convinced that you and Amber would hate each other forever. Just like Nath, who thought he would have to deal with constant tension between you.

But there he was, watching how his little sister couldn't stop caressing your belly, while smiling and crying at the same time. He thought it was adorable. And trust me, Amber is definitely going to be the fun chick.

He was there for you, (obviously your friends too) throughout the entire pregnancy, and mainly giving things away. There came a point where you had to ask her to stop spending so much on you, because every time she came to visit you (which was quite often) she brought a present with her.

I knew she would love him the day I met him, and you couldn't be happier about it.

THE DAY YOU HAD THE FIRST ULTRASOUND, THE DOCTORS HAD TO TAKE NATH OUT OF THE ROOM BECAUSE HE COULD NOT HOLD HIS TEARS. The doctors told him that he couldn't cause such a disturbance, since it should be a calm moment for both of you, but he couldn't help but burst into tears when he saw his baby on the screen. After calming down , they let him back in. You just laughed at the situation, such a cry baby really 🙄. And in general, pregnancy was a complicated process for both of us, but Nathaniel always made sure to be there to help you with whatever you needed at all times. (AS HE SHOULD, dont expect less!)

✧. - ̗̀ GENDER REVEAL . . .

I don't think Nathaniel is the type of person to speculate about the gender of the baby. Really, he didn't care too much as long as he was a healthy child.

I think he would be the first to suggest a huge list of names, depending on the gender, and to buy some clothes. The process of creating the baby´s room was complicated, and although you suggested doing it after the gender reveal, your husband simply couldn't wait and by the time you realized it, Nathaniel had bought all the necessary furniture.

He decided that he would use light colors for the room, and then you could decorate on top of the white walls with another color. I feel like the room would be strangely symmetrical and orderly. But in the sense that it wouldn't have a warm look. I think Nath always had a huge love for modern things and simple decorations, unlike you.

So, of course, you were in charge of giving it a more homely appearance and placing decorations in warmer colors so that it wasn't all white. In the end, it is simply your way of complementing each other.

AND I'M SURE THIS MAN BOUGHT THE BABY A POLICE SUIT

"Nath! It's a baby!" You reproached him

"A baby police officer.." He corrected you.

Now, it should be clarified that the revelation ceremony was nothing ostentatious. By both of your choices, only a couple of your close friends were invited, a couple of Nath, Amber (who was the first to arrive in a totally pink outfit, EXCITED AUNT!!), and your parents of course.

It wasn't anything too weird, you decided to go with a traditional way, simple confetti.

"Are you ready?" You asked Nathaniel, who could barely hold the confetti shooter.

"Yeah." He said it with such confidence that in chorus with those present, they began the countdown.

And before you processed it, they were both covered in blue confetti.

You immediately felt Nathaniel wrap his arms around you and lift you into the air, uniting your lips in a kiss.

✧. - ̗̀ MEETING THE BABY . . .

I don't think it's necessary to say too much about the birth, but I can say that Nath collapsed at least 3 times during the entire time you were there. But he never let go of your hand. (And thank goodness you didn´t either, because at any moment he would faint)

But after that stressful moment, Nath focused on spoiling you, bringing you your favorite food, taking care of organizing the bags with the baby's things, and making sure you weren't in too much pain.

Although he couldn't stop thinking about seeing him, about holding his baby in his arms. Juts like you of course.

The moment when, after a few moments that felt infinite, he saw the nurse come through the door with a bundle so small that it was completely surrounded by a blanket, he felt his heart skip a beat.

Although he tried to hold on as long as he could, the moment he saw how you received him in your arms, the tears began to fall. There was no sound or words, just his eyes full of love staring mesmerizingly at both of you.

After a while, Nathaniel held him in his arms. The moment he looked into his eyes, all his worries faded away. And he knew he wouldn´t let anything in the world hurt him.

"He…" His voice sounded choked by crying. "He has your eyes…" He couldn't finish his sentence, so he stayed silent to avoid bursting into tears and waking the baby. So he just hugged him against his chest. Nathaniel didn't know at all what would come next, but he was sure that he would do wathever it takes to keep you both safe. Both of you were his whole life. Anything else mattered.

(btw, you can name the baby however you want lol)

©allmcl !

[vilviko]

COMO BESA CASTIEL VEILMONT

warning(s) ₊ ⊹ ninguna, simplemente alguna leve connotación sexual

Nuestro pelirrojo favorito besa con pasión y cariño, una pasión que abruma cuando sus labios se tocan.

Su lengua recorre tu cavidad bucal, su mano derecha se mueve detrás de tu cabeza, mientras ocupa su izquierda paseándola por tu cintura.

El primer beso con Castiel, ocurre en el club de jardinería, transmite un sentimiento de timidez pero sigue manteniendo la pasión de Castiel, sus manos tiemblan levemente, se mueven de tu cintura a tu nuca en una velocidad abismal, quiere tocarte, quiere sentir todo de ti

Tus manos se entrelazan en su cabello haciendo que un leve gemido escape entre el beso.

Nunca pensó que sentir tus manos tirando de sus hebras rojizas, en ese momento se separó del beso.

Un hc personal es que Castiel tiene spiderbites y un piercing en la lengua, así que cuando te besa el pequeño bulbo metálico se mueve en tu lengua haciendo que te tiemblen las piernas y tengas que sostenerte de su camisa, cuando se separa del beso lame sus labios con su típica sonrisa burlona en su rostro.

"Sabia que era buena idea perforarme la lengua"

Los beso de Castiel en el instituto son feroces y hambrientos de más, la adrenalina de que alguien entre al aula A, de que Peggy escuche algo que no debe, de salir en la primera página del periódico escolar, todo eso lo incitaba a seguir besándote con la misma pasión.

Ama cuando tomas el control, cuando te pones sobre el y lo besas sin miedo, no morderá a menos que quieras.

Cuando pasas tus manos por su nuca y te lo comes con la mirada.

"Eso? No, no es mi pierna"

En la universidad, sus besos son nostálgicos y llenos de sentimientos, sus manos sujetan tu cintura con posesividad, y el tiembla; Castiel tiembla, por el hecho de que estás ahí besándolo, que no eres uno de sus mil y un sueños los cuales se repetían cada noche cuando soñaba con sus labios tocando los suyos, un sueño lejano hasta ese día.

"Dime que no estoy loco aun.."

En el amor, los besos de Castiel son tranquilos, sin prisa, sin miedo de que paparazzis salgan de la nada y publiquen su relación, se siente bien, su corazón se siente cálido.

Sus brazos bajan a tus muslos levantándote, tus brazos pasando detrás de su cuello.

Con sus manos debajo de tus muslos te guiaría hacia la cama, recostando tu espalda en la cómoda superficie, sus dos brazos atrapándote debajo de el.

Su rostro besaría tu cuello, tus mejillas, tus pechos, tu estómago, y se detendría en el momento justo para mirarte fijamente

"Dime, ¿Quieres que siga?"

Sus ojos estaban llenos de lujuria y amor, su mano hacia círculos en la parte interna de tus muslos.

En su boda, Castiel te besa con amor, te quiere demostrar todos sus sentimientos en un beso, demostrarte cuan agradecido está de que hayas elegido pasar la vida con el, aguantando sus problemas.

[ha8per]

boys boys boys 💋💋

Edit for BEST MEN in Amour Sucré

[firenzzz]

⌕ amor doce icons · lysandre ainsworth

reblogs & credits are appreciated ❟ do not copy, edit, steal or claim as yours

firenzzz©, 2023

[anonybaby]

Chapter 10 of Once I Saw Him is now up!

It is short ( but hopefully) sweet!

I do so hope you all enjoy. I can’t thank you all enough for sticking by this story. Plenty more will come soon! Hoping to release chappy 11 by Friday. 🤍🩵🩶

[lanliangsu]

En la penumbra de la noche, la luna alumbra el camino.

Nathaniel vive bajo una sombra que aprisiona su ser, Castiel es la luz que lo mantiene cuerdo en medio de la oscuridad. Las inseguridades y el dolor amenazan con apagar sus corazones, pero el lazo que los une lucha por brillar con más fuerza.

Fanart ilustrado por @linory1 💕

[melodyalanaroster]

Thunderbird Rising

A couple of years had passed since Nathaniel and Alana had left the Black Tower for their globe-trotting adventure. They had been to many places, seen and done many things, and had decided that it was time to come home. Alana bought a shop in the local shopping district and was turning it into a geeky paradise. Nathaniel had made it known that he wanted to join the police force and Alana had begun work on drawing up the necessary forms and agreements to ensure Nathaniel can fulfill his dream.

“So, you really wanna join the police force?” Sam quietly asked as she sat in a chair next to a bed in the Black Tower’s infirmary. Kentin was asleep in the bed with his eyes bandaged. “Yeah... Don’t get me wrong, I know it was the R.D.R and the Roster Family that got me out of my situation in college... But the police force did do their best to try to help me get out of it... And I want to help people.” Nathaniel explained. “And becoming an actual member of the R.D.R was out of the question. I completely understand that.” Sam nodded. “So? How’s he doing?” Nathaniel asked. “His eyes are healing as they should. He should be back to normal in a few weeks. I’m actually surprised it took him this long to come to this decision.” Sam explained. “What caused him to do this?” He inquired. “Between the basic inconvenience of having glasses, and the fact that he kept losing them, he saw no reason to continue having them... He’s not like my sister, his glasses aren’t, literally, a symbol of his power and position.” She explained. “I get that. Alana could get the same procedure done at any time... But she chooses not to.” Nathaniel nodded. “She has no reason to get it. One press of a button on the frame of her glasses instills fear and admiration into everyone that’s near her.” Sam rolled her eyes. “Despite the fact that she’s no longer “active”...” He sighed. “They can say she’s “no longer active” all they want... She’s HIS Grim Reaper. As long as she’s alive, she’s “active”. You should know that by now.” She shot. “I know it’s been a few years since I became “Lord Nathaniel” and started standing at her side, but I’m still not used to it.” He muttered. “Well, get used to it. Its why you’ve been trained the way you’ve been. Not just by HIM, but by us.” Sam nodded. “Do you think that being at your side could be a reason why Kentin got the procedure? It takes away one of his physical weaknesses.” Nathaniel suggested. “Possibly. I wouldn’t rule it out as a potential reason... But it probably isn’t a primary one.” Sam sighed. “Well, do you think I can get into the force?” He asked. “You? I don’t see why not. You’re smart enough on your own to get through the tests... Hell, you’d probably make a decent general in the military.” Sam smirked. “Well, its a good thing I don’t wanna join the military. There’s enough generals in this family.” Nathaniel laughed.

★

Nathaniel, Alana, the Red Death, the Prime Minister, the Mayor, the Chief of Police and Inspector Eric Ward had all convened in a conference room in the Black Tower. “Welcome everyone.” Nathaniel greeted as they all sat down. “Lady Melody, Lord Nathaniel! Welcome home!” the Prime Minister greeted. “Thank you ma’am.” Alana smiled. “Can someone tell me why we’re here?” the Mayor asked. “We are here to discuss a request that has been made to see if we can make it possible without throwing a wrench into our relations.” the Red Death stated. “And what request is this?” the Chief of Police asked. “I want to become a police inspector.” Nathaniel stated.

“That is preposterous! You’re a high ranking member of the R.D.R!” the Mayor blurted out. Alana stood up. “Technically, he’s not. He’s simply at the top of my “Immunity List”. While he has received training, he has not signed any documents to formally declare himself a member of this organization.” She explained. “So, he’s a civilian with an extreme amount of privilege and clearance?” the Chief of Police asked. “Yes.” Alana replied. The Red Death stood up and walked over to Nathaniel and Alana. “Mr. Jacott’s desire to become a police inspector is not an impossible dream. Surely we can work things out to make it a reality.” He suggested. “But how? His clearance will cause a bleed between the two organizations.” the Mayor’s skeptical tone continued. “I have a proposition that I believe will work for both organizations. Nathaniel will go through the testing and training it takes to become a proper inspector. He will not use R.D.R resources to aid his work. His office at the station will be the same as everyone else’s. He will have an office in the Black Tower that will be exactly like his office in the station, just in case there comes a point where he can’t leave the tower. However, I request that either a Paladin, or a Paladin In Training always keep an eye on him. In the event that his police work puts him in a situation that will cause him harm, we will extract him.” Alana suggested. “So, a Paladin will be following him?” the Chief of Police asked. “From a distance, yes. That Paladin will allow us to always know his location and secures his safety.” Alana explained. “And who is to say you won’t use it for your own personal gain?” The Mayor asked. “And why would I do that? I love and trust Nathaniel. Not to mention how I’ll be busy with my shop. The only time I’ll remotely think about using it is if he doesn’t give me any form of life signs for a full day, or late at night if he works late. Even then, I’ll ask a simple “yes or no” question... That being “Is he okay?”.” Alana raised an eyebrow, her tone didn’t change, but she was offended by the question. “Mister Mayor, you forget your place. Despite her current official title being “Agent Thunderbird”, she is still our “Grim Reaper”, you will give her the respect she deserves.” The Red Death ordered. The Mayor looked at them as if he had been neutered. “The goal of this meeting is to ensure that Mr. Jacott gets to do the job he chooses, to the best of his ability, and with the cooperation of the organizations involved. The Paladin’s presence is a form of insurance for us.” The Red Death announced.

The meeting continued for another hour. Everyone asked several questions. Eric was assigned to be Nathaniel’s partner. “This is great! We get to work together!” Nathaniel cheered as he walked up to Eric. “I expect great things from you!” Eric beamed. “This is going to be interesting.” Alana slyly smiled as she walked up to them. “I know you’re going to be amazing.” She grinned as she kissed Nathaniel on the cheek. “You know? When I was questioning you at the station a couple of years ago, I never thought this would be the reason why you had taken over his case.” Eric smiled at Alana. “Yet, you continued to attempt to interrogate me as if I was one of your criminals.” Alana rolled her eyes. “I apologized profusely for that.” Eric stated. “And if I didn’t forgive you for it, even a little bit, you wouldn’t be Nathaniel’s partner.” Alana coldly remarked.

★

Sam, Lynne, Seraphina, Agatha, Viktor, Kentin, Nathaniel and Alana stood in front of the Cozy Bear Café, curiously. “Why did Verity and Rini call us here?” Viktor asked. “I don’t know... All I know was that this place was up for sale recently so that Clemence could run off with her lover. But, for the last few months, the “For Sale” sign has been gone...” Alana replied. “What a reason to run off...” Agatha sighed, wistfully. Lynne looked at her sister with a sarcastic smile on her face. “You did that at one point... Remember? When you met that knight at a Ren Faire? If Seraphina and I didn’t track you down, you’d probably still be in the German countryside with him...” She remarked as she rolled her eyes. “I remember that... Our family had to figure out the schedule for the Faire and calculate how long it would take us to get to their next destination, so we could wait and catch you! You were gone for six months by that point and mom was worried sick! All for a boy! What was his name? Lancelot? Arthur?” Seraphina asked. “Alastair. His stage name was Galahad... And the family would have loved him! Hell, I loved him... Until he started developing a taste for creatures of the night...” Agatha began to look sad as she spoke. Alana looked at her aunt, remembered the contents of the Roster Family Vault in the deepest part of the basement to the main estate, and instantly realized why Agatha looked sad at the mention of her lover getting interested in vampires. “Oh Agatha...” She thought. “Please, if you two were really in love, you would have stayed together, despite that phase he was going through... And he would have come after you after we brought you home.” Seraphina rolled her eyes.

Right as Agatha was about to respond to her sister’s remark, the doors to the café burst open to reveal Verity and Severina looking quite optimistic. “Thank you all for coming! Please come in!” Verity mused. “We’ve got good news!” Severina smiled. The interior of the Cozy Bear looked very different to how Alana remembered it. It was no longer the boring café with slightly mismatched table sittings, the occasional fake plant, and a randomly placed couch. It had, clearly, been renovated to be more modern and artsy. The, once empty, main section had new places to hang artwork that included a small shelf. The new furniture had a more high class, clean, feeling to it. The entire back section of the room had been turned into a colorful lounge area with art all over the walls. The radiator was gone and the bar itself had been redone to have a brick like tile look. Instead of two separate doors that led to the kitchen and the restrooms, there was only one door that opened to a small hallway to get to them. One wall had a photo collage that showcased Verity, Severina and all of their friends and family as well as a shelf filled with Lynne’s entire catalogue of books. “Well? What do you think?!” Verity asked. “I think it’s a café.” Lynne commented. “It looks a lot better than it used to.” Sam nodded. Alana looked at her best friend and her godmother. “You two bought this place, didn’t you?” She asked. “YES!” Severina cheered. “Why? Its just a college café.” Seraphina questioned. “As much as I enjoyed dipping my finger into the fashion industry, it wasn’t “Me.”... I wanna get into art! But, I also wanna do something that is kind of different, so I wanted to have a café gallery! A place where people can come in, get a nice cup of coffee and a snack and also purchase artwork!” Verity explained. “And Rini? What about you?” Alana inquired. “As happy as I am to model for Universal Her, they’re only super busy during Con season... And this is a nice change of pace. As it is, it’ll keep me close to here so I can hang out with you at Thunderbird Studios, or with aunt Agatha!” Severina beamed. “V, Rini, you two don’t even need the money... Our company is doing just fine... So, why?” Viktor puzzled. Alana nudged Viktor in the ribs. “Do you not remember why they are spreading their wings and flying so freely now? Just because they don’t need the cash, that doesn’t mean they can’t do anything... That’d be like asking me the same thing about my shop.” She defended. “Exactly! As it is, the profits from this will mainly go towards four things. Our employees, ingredients, supplies, and a bit towards charity.” Verity clarified. “Employees?” Sam asked. “Yes! We’ve hired a couple of sweet girls. Hyun Sohn’s little sister, Dambi will be joining us in a couple of months after she gets settled at Sweet Amoris. And a girl who says she knows Sami and Mels! Her name is Nina.” Verity explained. “Nina? Are we talking long blonde hair and greyish purple eyes?” Alana inquired. “Yes! That’s her!” Verity mused. “I didn’t know she was still around...” Sam commented. “She never left. I think she’s in her Senior Year at Sweet Amoris this year. Sweet girl.” Alana replied. “I like her! I think I might take her under my wing!” Severina cheered. “More power to you!” Alana laughed.

★

Nathaniel sped through the process of becoming a cop. Acing every test, surpassing his limits, and impressing all of his superiors. “This isn’t the work of the R.D.R, is it?” The Chief of Police asked. Nathaniel shook his head. “No. The only training I’ve gotten from them is how to fight, and most of that was Alana and her sister.” He explained. “Well, as much as I respect the Grim Reaper and the military’s Juggernaut for their work and expertise, their techniques for fighting will only come in handy in dire circumstances. Your intuition and mental ability will take you far here.” The Chief commended. “As much as I want to promote you to the title of Inspector, you do need to spend some time on the beat. Are you up for it?” The Chief asked. “Definitely!” Nathaniel beamed.

That night, Alana sat on the bed, tablet in hand, as she worked on getting things ready for her shop. “Okay, I’ve discussed the importing of goods with my connections in Japan, talked with several of mom’s and Nate’s actor friends about maybe having D&D nights and other cool events, ensured that there are plenty of my props to fill a ton of shelves and discussed things with people in Disney and other companies to allow their products in my shop. I just need to talk to aunt Verity if we can partner up and possibly have a delivery service between her café and my shop, discuss things between Anteros and Sweet Amoris to possibly allow clubs from those schools to host events with me, and talk to Leigh to see if he and I can partner up on cosplay clothes. If he does go along with it, it will benefit us both.” She muttered to herself. “I thought you still resented Rosalaya.” Nathaniel commented as he entered the room. “I told you years ago, I resent Rosalaya and Alexy, I hold no resentment towards the Ainsworth boys. Aside from that, there’s a child in the situation, if I can aid an innocent’s life in being decent, I don’t mind doing it. I just refuse to do anything for Rosa, and I’m sure as hell not going to babysit. But, working with Leigh has proven beneficial in the past, so, I’d like to do it again.” She explained. Nathaniel stood before her wearing his police officer uniform which consisted of black pants, a blue short sleeved button up shirt, a police hat, a tactical belt, a badge  and a pair of handcuffs. She looked up and her jaw dropped. “Woah.” She sighed. Nathaniel smirked. “Nothing else to say, Miss Roster?” He cooed. Alana sat there, motionless, speechless, her eyes glued to him. She bit her lip. “Now, come on, say something.” His smirk becoming more devilish. She remained silent, the look on her face and her body language making her thirst very obvious. He walked over to her, took her tablet out of her hand, placed it on her nightstand, and kissed her, passionately. “Now, Miss Roster, I know you are charged with possession. I’m going to have to search you.”

★

Alana stood in her shop and looked around, proud. The shelves were covered in items from various series’ and genres. The walls had posters and art pieces from various artists. There was a section for table top games, a sitting area with a tv and console games of all kinds, a reading nook, a book section, a manga and anime section, an artistry section, a cosplay section and the usual shelves. Rayan had made it a hobby of his to help her around the shop as she got things ready when he wasn’t busy with his school work. She didn’t mind it at all, he was a fellow nerd and he thoroughly enjoyed helping her. He even made a few suggestions for items that she didn’t think about. “Thanks for all your help, Rayan.” She smiled. “Anytime. And you can bet, I’ll be a regular around here!” Rayan cheered. She got the shop’s website ready and made it perfect. One of the paladins volunteered to be a full time employee for the shop. “You sure you want to mostly leave the Tower behind, James?” Alana had asked. James was a well built, light skinned, boy with short brown hair and brown eyes. He was wearing black pants, black shoes, a black belt, and a black T-Shirt with a poster design from Star Wars: A New Hope on it. “Yeah. I’m not gonna lie, after that last Purification, I was kind of tired of all the bloodshed. I continued to train and everything, but, I took a leaf from your book and begun to train a member who was right underneath me to become my successor. When you requested a Paladin to become the main employee for the shop, I jumped at the chance.” James had explained. “I must admit, I feel kind of selfish asking, not just one, but two Paladins to do my personal bidding.” She replied. “Don’t. We all love and care about you. Plus, the Red Death approved of it, so, it’s okay.” James explained. She thought back to her conversation with Leigh. It was very cordial, but he was okay with a collaboration between the two shops. “You don’t have to do this if you don’t want to.” Alana had smiled. “It’s alright. I understand why you and Rosa are no longer on speaking terms, and you’ve never been truly rude to the three of us since you split from her. I’m more than happy to work with you.” Leigh had grinned. “Thank you Leigh.” Alana had beamed.

The building Alana had bought to be her shop was once a very large antique store near Leigh’s in the shopping district of that sector of the city. She had successfully converted it into a “geek’s paradise” as well as a second location for her work shop. She even made sure to include a series of lounging areas and tables. People had begun asking when it’s going to open, to which, Alana would always reply “It’s not ready yet, it will be soon!”. When she created the social media accounts for it, people would always comment “I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us!” and other things like that. “It looks like there’s a lot of hype surrounding this place!” James commented. “Yeah, I just hope I can live up to it.” Alana sighed. “You don’t have to live up to it. It doesn’t matter if this place is the most hopping place in the country, it just matters that you’re happy and enjoying yourself.” He replied. “Yeah, but, considering some people just wanna come in here because I’m me, I don’t wanna disappoint.” She sighed.

★

The day had finally come. The air seemed almost electric. “My shop is opening today!” Alana cheered as she ran around the living room in Death’s Domain. “Eric and I will definitely be there!” Nathaniel cooed as he sat at the dining table, eating a plate of bacon and eggs. “I’m so nervous! This shop is what I’ve been working towards for over a year...” She almost stammered. “Alana, you’re going to do great tonight!” Nathaniel smiled. “Are you sure? I really hope you’re right.” Alana stammered as she stopped running around the living room for a minute and looked at him nervously. Nathaniel got up from the table, walked over to her, put his hands on her shoulders and looked at her lovingly. “Melody Roster, you moved hell itself to get back to me. You are the next head of the main line of the Roster Clan, the R.D.R’s Grim Reaper, Lady Melody, and the Patron Saint of Lost Children. You have brought down child traffickers, corrupt priests, drug cartels, Achille Mekina and Carol Dubois. You can do anything you set your mind to and everything you set your mind to turns out wonderfully. This will be amazing.” He reassured.

That afternoon, the street that Thunderbird Studios sat on was closed off. Crowds had begun to gather around the shop. Several of Nate’s actor friends decided to show up to support their friend’s step-daughter. Many of Lynne’s and Verity’s friends made sure to get to the event early so that they could get early access. Nathaniel, Armin, Eric, Sam, Severina, Kentin, Viktor, Castiel and Lysander stood at the front of the crowd, excitedly waiting on the doors to open. “Holy crap! Is that Levi Pugh?”, “Shit! That’s Ryker Ross!”, “Scott Blue is here too!”, “The Roster Family decided to invite some of their major friends!”, “I wonder if I can get a picture with those guys!” people muttered. When everyone had gathered, Alana and the mayor stood in front of the shop. “Welcome everyone! Thunderbird Studios has been a dream of mine for several years now. I began working on cosplay props when my mom was in the hospital, and I was allowed to keep working on them for a little bit during my rise to power. Even through my darkest moments, working on anime and sci-fi cosplay items has been a passion of mine. And now, I get to share that passion with you all! May you all find as much love, fun and adventure in this endeavor as I have, and welcome to Thunderbird Studios!” Alana happily boomed. “Amouria’s youth now have their new hangout!” The Mayor cheered as he and Alana used giant scissors to cut the red ribbon in front of the shop and James opened the doors.

“Oh my god! Is that Sailor Saturn’s Silence Glaive?”, “Are those Japan exclusive figures?”, “Signed comics?!”, “Woah! Those light sabers are cool!” People chattered as they looked through the shop’s wares. “Melody! This place is insane!” Scott cheered as he, Levi and Ryker walked up to her. “Seriously! Your prop making skills are amazing!” Levi beamed. “I’m so proud of you kiddo!” Ryker smiled. “Thanks guys! I couldn’t have done it without everyone’s help!” Alana grinned. “Mels! This place is so badass! I can’t wait to have Universal Her send some of their upcoming collections here!” Severina mused as she ran up to Alana and gave her a big hug. “Go ahead and count me in as a frequent visitor!” Armin cooed. “I thought you lived too far away from here to be around so often?” Nathaniel looked at him, slightly accusingly. “Well...” Armin looked nervous. “Really? You haven’t told him?!” Alana asked, shocked. “Told me what?” Nathaniel asked. “I can’t believe you haven’t told him yet!” Severina blurted out. “Told me what?!” Nathaniel inquired, clearly getting slightly annoyed. “Ever since the terrorist attack on the nation’s satellites, several years ago, I’ve been tasked with boosting cyber security for both the R.D.R. and the Astarian military. Now, I’ve been transferred to an office in the aristocratic section of Amouria so that I can boost VKT’s security. As soon as I’m done with that, I’ll be working with the local police force to do the same. I’ll be moving into a really nice apartment here in the city very soon.” Armin explained. “Why didn’t you tell me this?!” Nathaniel burst. “Because! I was kinda planning on surprising you at work!” Armin laughed. “So? The gang is gonna stay together?” Sam asked as she and Kentin walked up to them. “Are you two staying in Astaria?” Alana asked. “Well... Now that my eyes have fully healed, the Military wants us to go to a different country... But I really don’t want to.” Kentin looked down. “So, I decided to tell King Julius that we’re not going to a new post and will be staying here.” Sam replied. “And I’m guessing that he and Crown Princess Ariadne want to present you two with proper titles for all of your service?” Alana raised an eyebrow. “YUP.” Sam nodded. “Why don’t you take the titles?” Lysander asked. “Because our family has been turning down formal titles from the Astarian Royals for centuries. We don’t do what we do for glory. We do it because its the right thing to do.” Alana explained. “Despite the fact that the Roster Clan has done a lot to deserve titles over the centuries.” A voice called from behind them.

The group turned in the direction of the voice and found a young woman with red hair, pink eyes, pale skin and elegant blue clothes walking towards them. “Well, holy shit... Does your daddy know you’re away from the palace?” Sam scoffed. “Were your ears burning Ariadne?” Alana asked, a smirk spreading across her face. “You know? Its only in establishments run by the Roster Clan that I don’t get formal greetings or introductions. I must say... It is quite refreshing.” Ariadne grinned. The Princess turned to Lysander. “Well... Well.. Aren’t you a nice tall glass of water?” She winked. “Um... Excuse me?” Lysander nervously blushed. “Watch out your Highness... You’re not even allowed to date beneath your station... Which means the only one here you could even be allowed to flirt with would be Viktor.” Alana snickered. “Melody! Sam! Its not fair! Most of your male friends may be “commoners” but they’re all so attractive! Even some of your female friends are easy on the eyes!” Ariadne whined. “I keep forgetting you’re bisexual...” Sam rolled her eyes. “You are not going to even try to use our friend group as your personal dating pool.” Alana sighed. “What are you doing here anyway? A “Geek’s Paradise” is beneath you.” Sam asked. “Well, I wanted to see the shop owned by the heir to the main line of the Roster Clan. I stopped by Ms. Mekina’s coffee shop on the way here. It looks like the two of you have quite the nice set up!” Ariadne beamed. “What, are you actually thinking you might become a regular here? Would your handlers even let you do that?” Severina asked. “I don’t see why not... The Roster Clan has been serving the Astarian Royal Bloodline for centuries. Not only did we give them refuge when the Romans and Christians were busy chasing all of the “snakes” out of Ireland and Scotland, but they’ve saved our lives on numerous occasions. The only reason they’re not knights and ladies is because they refuse the titles.” Ariadne shrugged. “But you don’t even like this stuff!” Sam blurted out. “Well, ever since you lot did that photoshoot at the Old Palace, I got a little curious... So I looked up what you dressed up as and I found out that it was from an anime. The dresses looked beautiful... I’d just need help watching it.” Ariadne explained. “Oh god.. You’re getting into Sailor Moon...” Alana laughed. “I’d love to help you with it! Its a lovely place to start when it comes to anime!” Severina cheered. “Hey, Melody? There are people that wanna see you!” Lynne chuckled as she walked up to them. “SHIT! I’m sorry! We’ll talk later!” Alana blurted out as she ran off.

“Heyyy! Lady Melody! Your place looks great!” Diego cheered. Diego was a man in his forties with tan skin, short dark hair and dark eyes. He wore his Inspector Uniform and kept his badge on his belt. He was standing next to Eric. “This place is cool! Are you gonna get vintage toys? May I suggest older Jurassic Park stuff?” Eric chattered. “I suppose I could look into that... I’m just not intending on getting anything from the new Jurassic World series... The lead actor gets on my nerves...” Alana remarked. “Cool!” Eric beamed. “Lady Melody? Do you think your father’s friends would mind if I got their autographs?” Diego eagerly asked. “I wouldn’t... Ryker, Levi and Scott aren’t here for publicity. They’re here because they wanna support me and hang out with my dad.” Alana shook her head. “Oh... Okay...” Diego looked down. “But! I’m sure they wouldn’t mind it if you went and said “Hi!”! You are one of Nath’s work friends, after all!” Alana smiled. “This is gonna be so cool!” Diego mused as he ran off. Alana watched Diego walk up to Nate, Ryker, Levi and Scott. After a couple of minutes, the five men were taking a picture. “Wow, I didn’t expect them to do that.” She happily shrugged. “This is so cool!” Rayan mused. “I’m glad everyone is enjoying this!��� Alana cooed. Rayan pointed out a man standing next to Verity. “Why is he here?” He asked. “Who?” Alana inquired, confused. “Dan Aberny. He’s a major art dealer and collector.” Rayan explained. Dan Aberny was a white man with curly brown hair that covered his right eye and green eyes. He wore a black turtleneck, blue pants and a light grey trench coat that was fastened with a black snakeskin belt and gold hardware. Draped around his neck was a long pink scarf. “He’s probably a friend of Verity’s... I suppose it would only be proper for me to go greet him.” Alana stated.

“I don’t understand this...” Dan complained. “Its fun!” Verity cheered. “You’re not going to have this stuff in your gallery, are you?” Dan condescendingly asked. “What? Is my daughter’s work beneath you?” Lynne asked, getting annoyed. “Well... This isn’t real art...” Dan rolled his eyes. “Then why are you here?” Alana asked as she walked up to them. “Melody! Your place is magnificent!” Verity cheered. “Thanks, V. Now... Mister Aberny. If you think so little of my work and passions, why are you here?” Alana growled. “I was invited by Ms. Mekina. She wanted to showcase her goddaughter’s hard work and artistic talent... Yet, I see none of that. Just toys and frivolous wastes of time.” Dan shot. “Further proof that the aristocratic side of the art world needs a wake up call and a reality check. Because if you actually paid attention, you’d see that the pieces in this establishment took blood sweat and tears to create.” Alana shot back. She turned to Verity, annoyed. “Is this really going to be some of the company you keep? V, you know how much our families love this kind of thing. Hell, Rini’s main passion lately has been modeling for a geeky clothing line!” She asked. “Mister Aberny is a very major person in the art world. He’ll be quite helpful with my gallery!” Verity replied. “Well... I’m not gonna stop you from associating with the likes of him.... You know, the Anish Kapoor, snobby, classist, fools who don’t support any other form of art except their elitist bullshit... But I won’t have his kind in my shop.” Alana stated. “But Melody...” Verity began. “And to think... I was expecting much more from the Heir to the Roster Clan and The Great Grim Reaper... I guess I shouldn’t have expected that much... Your family isn’t even aristocratic!” Dan sneered. “What did you just say?!” A voice called. Within seconds, Ariadne appeared before them. “Your Highness!” Verity gasped. “Princess Ariadne, how lovely to see you again!” Dan smiled. “What did you just say about Melody and her family?” Ariadne spat. “Well... This comes as no surprise that the Roster Clan can’t even get into the Art World properly... Its just a shame that they’re dragging the Mekina and Chevalier families down with them!” Dan laughed. “The Roster Clan was offered a place among the aristocracy, centuries ago, by the first true Astarian King. They have chosen not to take part in the system, simply because money and power don’t mean much to them. Despite my family begging them to accept their rightful titles as lords, ladies, and knights in our court for centuries, they have rejected it. They are more valiant than most of the aristocratic families have been in quite a long time. On top of that, their influence is still sought by the Astarian Crown due to their courage, honesty, loyalty, and sense of justice. As it is, if you knew ANYTHING about the Rosters’ connections to the Mekina and Chevalier families, you’d know that the aristocracy has actually begun to give the Roster Clan more of the credit they are due since it was MELODY who saved both the Chevalier and Mekina lines from almost total ruin! Going even further... As you have acknowledged, Melody Roster is still the Red Death’s Grim Reaper, and you’re blatantly insulting her and her work in her shop... Thus proving that, you’re not very bright and possibly have a death wish.” Ariadne exclaimed. Everyone’s heads turned in the direction of the group. "I just expected more from this!” Dan blurted out. Alana pressed a button on her glasses, activating one lens. “Get out.” She icily ordered. “Now, Lady Melody....” Dan began. “She said GET OUT, peasant!” Ariadne barked. Alana looked around and noticed several people had their phones out. “This isn’t going to go well for me.” She sighed. “Your highness! I never expected this kind of brash action from the likes of you!” Dan scoffed. “Clearly, you don’t know the true nature of the Royal Family!” One of Ariadne’s guards stated. “Now, the Princess ordered you to leave.” Another guard ordered. Dan turned to Verity, who looked upset and embarrassed. “Darling! Don’t look sad! We can still work together! Just don’t expect me to help you obtain anything like this!” He beamed. He turned back to Ariadne. “I do hope to work with you and your family!” He cooed as he waved and walked towards the door. “Don’t count on it!” Ariadne shot. 

As soon as Dan was no longer in sight, Verity turned to Lynne and Yael and looked down. “This really isn’t going to go well for my café gallery...” She muttered. “It could work out... We’d just have to find up and coming artists who are liked by the elite and don’t have any interest in associating with him... Or walk on eggshells around him...” Yael nervously chuckled. Yael was a young white woman with bright blue eyes and short red hair. She wore a long sleeved, light yellow, shirt with a very deep neckline that plunged into her high waisted maroon pants. On the right side of her collarbone, she had a simple, black, dove tattoo. She also wore a long gold necklace, a gold leaf bracelet on her right wrist, and gold earrings. “V, I can’t believe you’d even want to work with someone like that!” Lynne did her best to not yell. “Lynne! He’s important to my business!” Verity blurted out. “Yet, he waltzed into my daughter’s business, on opening night, and treated her like scum! You do remember that she’s your goddaughter, right?!” Lynne was shaking with rage. “But Lynne... I need his help to make my gallery a success!” Verity blubbered. “Mom, calm down. I can fight my own battles. Verity, if you think you can balance working with someone like that, maintaining your place as mom’s best friend and my godmother, and actually make it to where you don’t get hurt in any way by the end of it, I won’t stop you... Just know, I will lose a bit of my respect for you for it.” Alana explained. “Oh dear... This really won’t turn out well...” Verity gasped. “Nonsense! He’s going to apologize and atone for his actions, or he’s going to find himself penniless!” Ariadne boasted.

“You really are disconnected from actual aristocratic life, if you think that, Princess.” Sam called as she walked up to them. “What?!” Ariadne blurted out. “Our family’s history with your family has never mattered to these people. They’ve always looked down on us. It was around the 1700′s, when the Aristocracy had begun taking more inspiration from French and English nobles, that they almost completely negated their own history and started looking down on us because we didn’t have titles, our estates weren’t as nice as theirs, and we’ve refused to follow their customs.” Lynne explained. “And, yes, we could have taken the titles that your family has been offering us and avoided a certain amount of animosity, but it would have always been there... Simply because, even when the original Celtic Nations were under different chiefs in this land, our family is, originally, from Ireland and Scotland. Not only that, the legends that we’re monster hunters and have a bit of the Fae’s blood in us has gotten our family a certain amount of persecution from some of the people. Yes, the persecution from the legends has waned in recent centuries, but part of the wariness is still there.” Alana clarified. “But it shouldn’t be like that...” Ariadne gasped. “Yeah... Well... It is. Its part of our reality, your Highness...” Lynne replied. “And it does get worse... There are some families who are trying to become part of the Aristocracy by any means necessary.” Alana stated. “Carol and Achille being part of that...” Sam added. Alana looked at Nathaniel and remembered what his parents had done. Nathaniel looked back at her, realized what she was thinking about, and looked down. “But... It’s not...” Ariadne stuttered. “Look... Even if we work hard to change things, it will take several generations before any real change happens.” Alana commented. “Well... Then we have to start somewhere... The Aristocracy in Astaria needs to be humbled and reminded of their history!” Ariadne declared. “Oh dear gods... Please don’t tell me that you’re gonna go on a crusade...” Sam blurted out. “But Samantha...” Ariadne began. “Look... If you wanna try to make this your passion project, fine... But don’t start a revolution...” Sam sighed.

Hours later, only the Mayor remained in the shop with Nathaniel, James and Alana. “I must say, Miss Roster, I wasn’t expecting that level of lively evening.” He grinned. “I was not expecting Princess Ariadne to show up and Verity to bring an aristocratic elitist.” Alana sighed. “Hey, it still turned out pretty well! A few people bought wands, and wanna see if you’ll make a few props!” James cheered. “It was quite fun! I may have to see if my sons will wanna wander in here!” The Mayor mused. “If they do, I’ll be looking forward to it! As for now, tonight was a decent success... But I wouldn’t call it perfect...” Alana stated. “But, it was decent. That’s always better than a disaster!” Nathaniel cooed. “You’re not wrong... But, for now, I’d like to go home. James, be sure to lock up, please.” Alana yawned. “I agree. Goodnight everyone.” The Mayor yawned as he walked away from the shop. “Don’t worry, Mels. I’ll lock up.” James smiled. “Thanks... Nath, let’s go home.” Alana let out a long yawn. “With pleasure.” Nathaniel yawned.

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Since Nate Films is based on Nathan Fillion, his friends’ names are based on actors that are known friends of Nathan. Levi Pugh is Zachary Levi (Pugh is Zachary’s actual last name). Ryker Ross is Ryan Reynolds. Scott Blue is Seth Green.

King Julius is a reference to Black Clover. In Black Clover, the Wizard King is named Julius Novachrono. Princess Ariadne is King Julius’ and Queen Sophia’s eldest child and the heir to their throne. Ariadne has 2 siblings. A brother named Urien and a sister named Lena.

There is A LOT of lore in this one!

[mclangel]

Note to self: Castiel takes zero prisoners.

Chapter three is getting m e s s y

[amalgamateofficial]

I just wanted to thank all the amazing readers of Amalgamate for getting the fic past 3000 kudos!!!

Or, I guess I should say I got Kokichi to say thank you, which is a miracle in and of itself XD

[allmcl]

hi!! do you also write for armin (separately)? ive been craving some armin content for a while and i found your account, your writing is so amazing, and i was wondering if you'd write something where candy and armin arent back together yet in UL and, after a night in the snake room with alexy, rosa, priya and the others, armin decides to fight for her love not knowing he doesn't need to fight for it since she's head over heels for him

STILL HERE │ Armin Keenan.

When a reunion with an old love reminds Armin of everything they experienced together, he decides that after so much time, it's now or never that he should get you back.

pairing('s). armin keenan x f!reader

genre. fluff, angsty.

content wanings. mentions of breakup, alcohol consuming, cursing, kissing, suggestive themes.

author's note. MISSED THIS BOY SO MUCH DURING UL, hope you like this!! (tysm for requesting, sorry it took so long!) AND BTW, i found like a lot of lastnames and i decided for this one (not sure if is the canon one ://)

I was sure that my return to the city would be harder. After all, I couldn't blame anyone for being angry with me. If one of my friends just left, without even saying goodbye, I wouldn't be happy either. But, luckily for me, they had a much better reaction than I expected.

At the moment, I only saw Rosa and Melody. Although perhaps I didn't know how to show it at the time, having seen them after so long squeezed my heart so much that I still feel my emotions on the surface.

To tell the truth, I'm scared. Although I used to seeing eachother very often in high school, whether to go out for a drink or just to walk around the city, this is not high school anymore. And it's now, when I'm getting ready to go out, that I feel like I'm getting ready in my old room to go shopping with the them. The phone vibrates, and brings me out of my melancholic thoughts.

I look at him out of the corner of my eye, the screen glows with a notification from Alex.

Alex…

I refrain from further worries and simply read it from the preview.

"[Y/NNN]??? we are waiting for youuuu"

"Years waiting to see you, and you still late🙄​"

I smiled wistfully. I know he says it jokingly, but the guilt is real. But that's not important now, because it's once and for all my time to fix that, and to get back on track with my life here. I type a quick, “on my way,” before pocketing my phone and heading out the door to my campus room. Although the phone rings again, I don't bother checking it and I hurry to arrive on time.

I look at the time on the screen: "11:48." I curse under my breath. I'm a little embarrassed to admit that I'm lost, and that even though I've been wandering around on the same street for more than twenty minutes, I still can´t find the bar. On the other hand, who would think of inviting someone to a place and not sending the address?

When I start to stress again, I recognize a voice in the distance that I would recognize anywhere. It's Alex. I follow the sound, although I don't pay attention to what it says, none of it matters when I see it. His eyes light up and he falls silent immediately. As I expected, he almost hugged me to the ground. Rosa also briefly joined our hug, smiling as she watched us interact.

"Finally!" He screeches in my ear, and although it dazes me a little I laugh out loud. "I missed you like crazy…" He whispered to me, and I had to separate myself for a moment to not burst out crying in my place.

"I missed you, Alex.." I sighed, but he seemed to notice my mood, changing the subject slighlty.

"You´re back, all that matters." He jokes, and I smile. "I hope you're ready for the surprise then."

I raise an eyebrow. "Surprise?"

"Yes, I told you by text." He emphasized obviously, gesturing towards his phone.

Of course, the text I didn't read. I nod briefly, so he thinks I know what he's talking about. Their surprises honestly scare me. They can go from something exciting to something illegal, you never know what to expect from these two. I'm nervous yes, I assume the "surprise" is inside.

"It's not bad at all." Rosa calms me down, she seems to read my mind sometimes. "I promise you'll be happy"

Well, now I'm scared.

Alexy wastes no time in cutting off the conversation, and Rosa simply presses her hand on my back lovingly, urging me to enter the disco-bar, "Snake Room." This was definitely not there when I lived here. Well, most of the things I see now didn't used to be there. Upon entering I immediately notice the loud music, the smoke and the smell of alcohol, the lights blur my vision a little, and it is difficult for me to discern where Alex is.

Rosa guides me a little to the table near the bar, which seems to be one of the quietest places in the place. But that's when the colored lights hanging near the stage allow me to catch a glimpse of him.

"I thought it would be nice for you to see each other again." Alex says, trying to calm the tension in the air.

My breath stops for a few moments. I don't know how to feel, but my body responds on its own. I'm shaking a little, and at this point I don't know if it's the flashing lights or their presence that's making me dizzy. I can barely move to get close to greet him. He changed a lot. Of course his essence is still there, I can tell, but it's definitely different.

"Welcome back." His voice is also different, deeper I could say. It throws me off a little. Well, all of him does. I curse myself internally. I was convinced I was ready for this, but I see I'm not.

I smile at him reflexively, and sit down across from him. The silence feels quite loud now that I feel his gaze on me, even though I avoid making eye contact. Rosa clears her throat, and gestures indiscreetly at Alex. I would laugh, if it weren't for the fact that this whole situation has me totally overwhelmed. I look at him for a few seconds, but he was already looking at me. God, I don't know if I can handle this.

"I imagined you´d be happier…" He smiled with amusement, and I couldn't help but feel my heart skip a beat at his expression. He looks boyish, in a strange way. It's as if for a moment, his expression took me back to high school Armin.

"I'm surprised, that's all." I laugh nervously.

"Well, he came all the way here just to see you." Alexy clarifies, but Rosa waves him off with a glare.

I look at him with my eyes slightly open. "You´re not living here?" The question escapes me before I can think about it.

"Not quite." He clarifies, and takes a sip of beer. It's now that my throat feels a little dry, but I don't feel like drinking alcohol. I could end up doing things i´ll regret. "Although now that you're back, I'd think about it." He winks at me.

I looked to the side, and felt my cheeks burn a little. It looked like it was going to be a long night.

"I thought you were tougher." Rosa reproaches, tripping a little, but Alexy holds her steady. "Now you go to bed early and don't drink. You've become an old man." He grimaces, and a laugh escapes us.

"It's not that!" Alex complains. "I just wanted to greet [y/n] sober." He looks at me smiling, and I smile back. "I'll take care of the old drunk" Rosa exclaims a "hey!" and hits him lightly on the shoulder, but he doesn't flinch.

"Are you back on campus?" Armin asks me, and then I remember that he is, in fact, still here. He looks at me, waiting for my response but I freeze instantly. Every time he speaks I experience the same embarrassment.

"Well, I'll leave you, lovebirds." The idiot does it on purpose. But for the first time, I notice that I'm not the only one embarrassed, Armin's cheeks turn pink, and he sends a reproachful look to his twin, who smiles innocently. Some things never change, I see. "Take care of her." It sounds more like a threat than a request, to which the black-haired man rolls his eyes and nods.

I watch Alexy walk away in the opposite direction.

Silence falls between us, and it is until we see the two disappear after turning down the street that I understand that I am alone with him. I smile awkwardly at him before taking a couple steps back.

"I'll walk you back." I open my eyes a little, and look at him with surprise. He seems sure of his words, and looks at me expectantly with that smile of his that I still have to get used to. "I don't like the idea of ​​you walking alone,"

"As much of a gentleman as I remembered." I reply, a flirtatious smile escaping me and Armin simply smiles wider. "It's close, anyway"

"I insist." His expression is confident, and well, I don't mind his company either.

With a slight nod of my head, Armin understands that I agree, so we start walking towards the campus. The silence this time is not awkward, and although we don't talk about anything, it really feels like there are an infinite number of topics to touch on. Not very pleasant topics. After all, we can't ignore that we were together, and that the break-up wasn´t the most pacific thing either.

"I was also glad to see you again." I whisper, and even though my voice sounds quiet, he hears me. He always does.

"I figured you'd be mad." He confesses, and although I don't see his face I know he's looking at me.

Deep down, yes I am. But I'm not sure if that was enough of a reason to ruin the evening and Alex's surprise. It would have been nice to have mentally prepared myself so that I wouldn't have reacted like a schoolgirl to seeing him.

"Well, it's been a long time…" I clear my throat a little. "I have my reasons to be tho."

"Yeah, but I bet you forgot all of it with how good I look." He mocks, smiling widely.

I click my tongue. "You can't use your face to change the past."

"You're right, but I can use it to change things now." A lopsided smile appears on his features, and his comment takes me by surprise.

I tense up suddenly and simply look away. I hate that probably if he tried… "You're too cocky." I complain.

Deep down, I wonder if that would bother me. It's stupid. Armin didn't care that we broke up, I really wonder what his intentions are now. But, I can't deny that the memory is still alive in me. Everything about him remains in me as if he had never left, and it bothers me that I couldn't change that in this embarrassing amount of time we were apart.

"I just feel like I'm not the only one." Armin grumbles, shoving his hands into the pockets of his baggy pants. Now I also notice that his style is different. It doesn't seem like his brother intervenes as much in his clothes as before, that is, he maintains a bit of his own style more than anything. More calm and informal.

"What is that supposed to mean?" I grimace, crossing my arms before looking back at him.

"I say that because I notice the way you look at me." His words make me even more angry. Sometimes I feel like there is no one who can read me like he does. It was always like this, since we were young. One expression on my face was enough for Armin to decipher what was happening to me.

"I―no.." I stuttered and he noticed it, however, he didn't continue probing and I remained silent.

The walk to campus was getting shorter, and I wasn't sure I knew how to say goodbye. Everything was so strange. It's not that I want to see him, but knowing that he was going to leave made me feel like I couldn't just leave him like that. My heart is beating fast, I feel like even he can hear it.

And although it seems like things can't get any worse, several drops falling on my hair bring me out of my frantic thoughts. The chance of rain was quite low today, but of course it has to rain anyway.

"This weather is a bit nice." Armin points out, extending his palm to feel the raindrops on it, which slowly intensify.

"Nice? I'm soaking my clothes." I grumble, trying to cover myself a little.

"On one of these days we kissed for the first time" Armin smiles to himself, and simply lowers his gaze to look me in the eyes.

Shit. I didn't expect to have to think about this again. Less now that he´s here. Of course I remember it. I invited him to eat at the restaurant where we made that ridiculous double date that I actually still remember as one of my most precious moments.

On the way back home, rain started pouring and us, like idiots, hide nder a tree until it calmed down a bit. I wouldn´t forget something as special as that.

"You have no right Armin." I feel my eyes water at the memory, but I am relieved to know that because of the rain it is not very noticeable. "You can't say that now."

"It's not easy to pretend that I don't remember anything that happened." He frowns a little and stops in the middle of the street, forcing me to do the same.

"I'm not asking you to do it but…" I stop, feeling a sudden lump in my throat.

"And you can't pretend that the same thing doesn't happen to you."

And he is right. He always is when he talks about my feelings. He is correct, of course. Since I saw him, I knew that in fact, nothing of what I felt for him had managed to dissipate over the years. My heart still belongs to him.

"I lost you once, [y/n]. I can't let you go again…" His words hit me like a bucket of cold water. "When I knew you were coming back I―…"

I interrupted him. "Do you think it's easy for me?" I raised my tone of voice slightly, the fierce rain drowning out the noise a little. "Your lack of interest tired me out, Armin. You can't come back into my life like this and expect me to throw myself into your arms like it was nothing."

"I know I did things wrong, but I can still show you that I changed!" He raised his voice too. My heart was racing, and his blue eyes looking at me like I was the only thing in the world made me feel like a teenager again. "I'm not the same one who made mistakes. The only thing that remains of me is the love I have for you, [y/n], it's the only thing I couldn't change."

Tears are streaming down my face, and I don´t think it comes unnoticed by him anymore. He sheepishly tries to dry them, but the water keeps running down.

"Look at me," Armin approached me and forced me to look at him with a gentle movement of his hand. He pressed his fingers a little on my chin. "I love you." And now, in his bright eyes, in his warm hands and in his smile that I never thought I would see again, I see the truth.

Without being able to get the words out of my mouth, frustrated, angry, I let myself go and as if my hands knew their way, they wrapped themselves around his neck and pulled him closer to me. Our breaths merge and his arms end up around my waist. We are so close I memorize every feature of his face, every new thing my eyes notice.

"Are you going to kiss me or keep making me wait?" He murmured, and to silence him once and for all I kissed him.

I felt safe, at peace. Like I've been waiting for this forever. His lips fit perfectly on mine as always, his grip tightens and I need to hold on to him as I feel my legs shake a little. It's passionate, fierce. It's not like the way he kissed me before, so innocent and clumsy.

The butterflies that I thought were dead begin to flutter in my stomach again, and the only thing that separates me from jim is the lack of air. But even though we break the kiss, Armin doesn't let me go, he keeps me close to him and brings our foreheads together.

"This time I'll make you stay." He sighs, and kisses me again to seal his promise.

©allmcl !

[maayaainsworth]

Playlist: ~ ♥ ~

[ha8per]

nathaniel carello edit again 😭

[i-donot-forget]

Inconceivable

I wrote this as the "first approach" between Eric and my Candy, Amy. The idea is to write some more moments that I have in mind, but it could still remain just as an One-Shot. It's a very short EricxCandy, Nath’s route, lots of angst, etc, etc.

Yes Nath, I know, do you think I don't know that the fucking cafe is about to go bankrupt? I don't need you to lecture me

I'm not lecturing you, I just don't think it makes any sense for you to keep that girl who is no contribution at all

I just don't feel it's too much to give her a second chance

It's unnecessary

You know what I think you're right, I shouldn't give second chances

I nailed my eyes on his defiantly, he knew exactly the double intention in my words and couldn't do more than give me a sarcastic half smile.

You seem a bit regretful with some of your decisions, maybe you should take my advice

Enough... I'm not in the mood for this shit, not even to pretend I am, I shake my head and walk to the door, it's late, quite late. I grab my coat and leave the house without any opposition, it's getting to be a habit. I go downstairs thinking about who to write to. Rosa? no of course not, Castiel? It would be ideal if he would actually answer the damn cell phone sometime... Chani? no, I don't want to bother her... Alexy?

And I don't know how it all turned into a discussion about how I don't respect his principles...

Alex listens without an opinion while pouring a couple of drinks, not because he doesn't care, but because my constant nightly visits to complain about my relationship problems have exhausted all his advice, he has already said it all, he has opined on everything and here I am, on his couch at 2 a.m., upset with my cute and stupid boyfriend.

Sometimes I feel that... it doesn't matter...

No, no, say it, you're already here, you woke me up, the least you can do is get it all out.

I shake my head low, watching my fingers run along the rim of my glass.

Sometimes I feel like I made a mistake.... That Nath and I, we should never have been more than friends

I confess in a low voice, I don't dare to look Alexy, I feel like shit, but finally releasing those words gives me a strange feeling of freedom, lightness, of having taken a small weight off my shoulders.

You know there's no solution for that, right?

I nod my head silently... Damn it, why do I feel so trapped?

I love him you know, I really love him.

Tears well up in my eyes and I take long heavy breaths in an attempt to hold them back.

Ever since I met him, I've only wanted to protect him, I want him to be happy... but....

You are not happy with him...

Alex finishes a sentence that was more than implied, my body feels tense, so tense it hurts, I raise my arm and empty the alcohol in my glass at once. As soon as I set it down on the table, Alexy begins to prepare another.

3.30 am and I can no longer continue to abuse the hospitality and good availability of my friend... Alex calls me a cab and I get in, praying that Nath will be asleep when I get home... The alcohol and the confessions leave me drained of my strength to face those amber eyes. I get to the door and before I put the key in I clearly hear a conversation on the other side, male voices... great.... I turn on my phone's camera to assess my expression and practice my best "everything is fine" smile before entering.

Oh, hi Eric, how are you?

Eric greets me with a half smile and a nod, I approach Nathaniel to kiss him like the happy couple we are, he smiles at me until my body covers his view of Eric, in that brief moment I see clearly how his expression is disfigured, he turns his face at the last moment and I plant my kiss on his cheek Really Nath? Really?

How did it go?

He asks to cut the awkward silence that hopefully only the two of us notice, as I walk around the apartment spreading out my things.

Fine, fine, Alex was telling me about his life, his new job and stuff

Wasn't Armin there?

No, but from what he let me know, they may be considering moving in together

Sounds complicated

Well, it's only complicated with the wrong person

Shit, Amy what the fuck are you saying? I glance quickly at Eric who didn't seem to be affected by the second hidden conversation Nath and I were having.

Would you like to stay with us for a while? I can make you a drink

No... No thank you, don't bother, I'm fainting. You don't mind if I go to sleep?

I disappear backstage, locked in the room I feel an urgent impulse to tear everything apart, I strip naked on my way to the shower and let the water wash away everything it can, but it doesn't work, I want to punch the wall, throw my things around the apartment, bang my head against the tiles. I breathe, again and again and again, in and out, I throw myself on the bed to half dry, I feel so tired, so exhausted, my head is spinning and I don't know anymore if it's because of my life, because of the problems or if it's just because of the alcohol.

I blink a couple of times immobile, I can't move, as if a huge weight is crushing my body, in front of me Nath's face, a couple of strands on his slightly frowning brow, still asleep he looks like he's upset, but still he looks so.... Angelic and peaceful, I move a blond lock away from his eyes and let my hand caress his cheek, he looks so cute like this, I would like to freeze this moment forever, between dreams he slides his hand over mine in a sweet gesture, I can't help but smile, until reality hits me again and I feel like I can't hold back the urge to burst into tears.

I get up without making a sound, my chest hurts and squeezes my throat tightly forcing me to gasp for breath, I leave the room pressing my hands against my eyes as tears slip through my fingers, an involuntary sob escapes my lips breaking the silence, suddenly I bump into something that shouldn't be there.

I look up and thanks to the dim first light of the morning I run into Eric's back who looks as surprised as I do, if not more.

A-Amy

He said in a barely perceptible whisper, at the same time my meager defenses were collapsing like a house of cards.... Come on Amy, not here, not like this, not in front of him. Unable to fight any longer I broke into a thousand pieces, unconsciously clinging to his jacket, overflowing with all the anger, sadness and frustration I had been accumulating. Crying inconsolably with my face pressed to his chest, I felt one of his hands encircling my shoulders and the other resting on my head causing my crying to intensify, I can't stop myself, I can't control myself, I feel so bad, so alone in my predicaments.... Then I inhale the intense scent of leather, cigarettes, coffee and alcohol that fills my senses, after a few seconds of breathing him in, I calm down, until I can finally separate from him, covering my mouth with my hand and turning my face in the opposite direction, embarrassed...

Uh- I'm sorry, I... Drinking makes me a little sensitive...

My voice was weak and strange, I try to sound normal... like fine, but I know it's not credible...

Don't worry kid, I was just leaving.

I'll walk you to the door...

I mumbled walking after him to the exit, he left without adding anything else, alone again I carried my weight at the door, my heart was beating a thousand per hour... it could be-

My phone rings and I answer it quickly and without looking before the noise wakes Nathaniel.

Hello? Hyun? Yes... No, don't worry, I've been up for a while. Yes, of course, of course, I'll get ready and go. It's nothing.