#niffala fics

[niffala]

Regrets

Pairing: Eddie Munson & Steve Harrington

Summary: Steve overhears something he was never meant to. 

Warnings: all angst, asshole eddie

A/N: No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated. 

Main Masterlist   

Steve giddily parked his BMW in front of the school. Looking next to him, he ran his hand over the engraved EMSH on the guitar case, imagining the smile it would cause. It almost felt like a dream, finding someone that loved him as much as he loved them. No more lonely movie nights where the only warm thing to hold was the popcorn. His boyfriend looked after him, accepted him, kissed and held him. He wasn’t alone anymore.

Inside the case held all the stuff Eddie would need to take the best care of his sweetheart; new strings, tools, conditioner, polishing oil and cloths. He couldn't wait til Eddie got home, so Steve decided to surprise him by showing up to Hellfire club. He bounced out of his car, practically shaking with excitement because he knew his Eddiebear would love the gift.

He greeted the kids as they came out, mounting their bikes to ride home.

Dustin huffed, "You coulda told us you'd be here. A ride would be appreciated now and then."

"Quit whining. I haul your ungrateful behinds around all the time."

The boy pointed his chin at the item in Steve's arms, "What ya got there?"

Steve protectively held the case tighter, "Just something for Eddie. He still inside?"

"Yep, he's cleaning up the drama room."

Grinning ear to ear, he continued his path to the building. Lifting his arm to wave goodbye to the kids, “Have a good night guys.”

“You too, loverboy.” A chorus of laughter and kissing noises followed as they rode off.

Under different circumstances, Steve would have playfully chased after them for that, but tonight he was on a mission.

Approaching the drama room, he could see Eddie and his friends through the small window. Putting away the game, tucking away the chairs and turning off the stage lighting. Preparing to push the door open, he pauses when he hears his name.

“...No can do. I'm meeting Steve right after this. I can get beers with you guys another time.”

Steve was touched that Eddie made him a priority in his life. His heart began to soar, only to immediately fall at the next words spoken.

Gareth tsked, “Never thought I'd see you and Harrington together. I mean he's such an asshole. Mr high and mighty always thinking he's better than everyone else.”

“He's always been a judgmental douche. Looked down on all of us in high school. Him and his buddies made our lives hell. Don't know how you put up with that arrogant jerk all these months.” Jeff was equally displeased with Eddie’s choice.

Steve’s brows furrowed while listening to Eddie's friends bad mouth him and mock their relationship. He held his breath, waiting for his boyfriend to come to his defense. Instead, Eddie played into it.

The metalhead rolled his eyes dramatically. “I told you guys a hundred times, we aren’t dating, it's just a hookup. I got Harrington wrapped around my finger.”

Emboldened by his friends’ chuckles, Eddie hopped onto the table, sitting with his legs criss crossed and continued. “Seriously the guy is putty in my hands, will do whatever I say. I'm getting what I can out of our arrangement. No feelings involved. Not sure his majesty has feelings anyway.”

“Why put up with him then?”

Eddie shrugged, “Cause he spoils me. Takes me out and buys me things. And you have NO IDEA the POWER I feel having King Steve on his knees just for me. It's addicting.” He scrunched up his face and bit his knuckle suggestively. Feeding off the attention and approval he received. “But not to worry, I'll be ending it soon. I'm starting to get bored. And I'll rip my ears off if I have to listen to his shitty music one more time.”

“Ughhh,” Eddie fell back, staring at the ceiling, “I need it to be over. Been letting it go on for too long. The gifts and the sex are nice and all, but I need something more with someone with a lot more going on upstairs.” He tapped his head to uproarious laughter.

The air around him was too hot. Steve clutched his chest, feeling something breaking deep within him. Unable to swallow the lump in his throat, he couldn’t hear anymore. He ran back to his car, his vision blurry from the hot tears spilling down his face.

‘He doesn't love me, doesn't give a shit about me at all. He'd been using me this whole time. It was all just to humiliate me. Make me fall in love with him so he could break me and have a good laugh with his friends. How could I be so stupid?'

Steve threw the useless present into the backseat, starting the vehicle and pulling out of the lot as fast as he could. The severe pain in his chest made him wish he could rip out his heart and throw it out the car window, watching in his rearview mirror as it exploded on the roadside.

He couldn't recall a single moment of the drive until arriving at Robin's door. By the time she sat him down, he was sobbing so hard, he could barely get a word out. Robin made him tea, wiped his face with a cool washcloth and rubbed his back until he calmed down. He confessed to her what he heard. She was suspiciously quiet as she listened. 

Before he went to bed, Steve left a message on Eddie's machine saying he wasn’t feeling well and couldn’t make it tonight. He hung up before an ‘I'm sorry and I love you’ slipped out. He didn't want to embarrass himself further. It's not like Eddie would notice or care. It never meant a thing to him anyway.

'I was such a fool to think anyone would actually love me back.’

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

The next day, Eddie stopped over to check on Steve. It wasn’t like him to miss a date, he must really have been sick. Not to worry though because he was fully prepared to nurse his man back to health.

To Eddie’s surprise, Robin answered the door instead… and punched him square in the face.

“What the fuck, Buckley?!” Holding his throbbing nose, he stepped away from the angry woman in case she decided to take another swing.

“Fuck you, Munson! You stay the hell away from Steve.”

“I'll see my boyfriend if I want to.” This was absurd, he tried to move around her to go inside. “What is your problem?”

Robin used all her might to shove him away. “Oh, he's your boyfriend now? Thought it wasn't a relationship and you were just getting what you could out of it.”

“Look I don't know what you think you heard...”

“I didn't. Steve did.”

Eddie froze, his heartbeat skyrocketing. All color drained from his face, his bloody nose slowly dripping onto his shirt in sharp contrast.

“Yeah, he was bringing you a gift and heard everything you and your nasty friends said about him.” Robin shook her head at him, sneering, “He's changed so much, you should know that more than anyone. And he loves you. He doesn't deserve to be treated this way, especially from you.”

“Shit. Shit! It's not what you think. God, I’ve got to talk to him. I...”

“I don't think so.” She wasn’t going to budge.

“But you don't understand, I can explain.”

“No buts, Munson. Because it can only be one of two things.” She held up one finger, “Either you meant what you said last night, which makes you the Grand Poobah of assholes.” 

She held up a second finger, “Or you are too embarrassed to claim Steve as yours and admit you love him back. I honestly don't care which because it still makes you a cowardly piece of shit that broke my best friend's heart and I'm not letting you near him again. Got it!”

Eddie just hung his head and nodded. Wincing as Robin slammed the door in his face.

He remained rooted to the spot, the guilt eating at him. He wished he could go back in time and rip those horrible words out of his lying mouth. He felt sick.

'I ruined everything. How could I be so fucking stupid, why did I say those things?'

Eddie imagined kicking down the door, running to Steve, screaming ‘I love you! I love you! I love you! I'm sorry, please forgive me. I swear I didn't mean a word of it. Not a fucking word. And I'm so fucking sorry. Please don't leave me.’ He'd get on his knees and beg until his beloved took him back.

He's not sure how long he stood there staring at his Reeboks. No sign of movement from inside the house. Finally accepting defeat, Eddie turned tail, fleeing back to his van. He knew he wouldn't get another chance. Why stick around.

Sniffing and wiping at his stinging eyes, he fumbled the keys, dropping them into the dirt. “Fuck!” He rammed his fist into the driver's side door, before bending over to grab the keys.

Unlocking the door and getting in, Eddie sat there staring at his swollen and swiftly bruising knuckles. Something was definitely broken. Wouldn't be able to play for a while. He knew he should be more upset about that, but right now he couldn't care less. He lost his Stevie, his Sunshine.

Eddie gripped the steering wheel as hard as he could, screaming at top of his lungs “FUCKKKKKKKKK!” Out of breath, he leaned his head on the wheel, allowing himself to cry. He was alone, living his worst nightmare.

It was over.

The End

A/N: Thank you to everyone that has read. I appreciate you all. I’d love to know your thoughts.

[supraveng]

500 followers challenge!!

I’ve recently reached 500 followers, and I’m shocked and excited!  So much so that I’ve decided to host a challenge.  I love reading fan fics and thought this would be an amazing way to interact with others!!   

Rules - There are no rules!  Not really anyway....I don’t want to squeeze your creativity into a box and make you uncomfortable.   

So here’s what the challenge is, pick a title from the list below and write it about your favorite character or real person.  Let me know what your title is!  (Want to limit the number of fics for each title to 2) 

I started with Avengers and Supernatural when I started my blog, but have found some great Bridgerton, Stranger Things and more fandoms that have some incredible stories here, so choose the fandom you love the most (or one you want to write about more)

You can decide the genre, but please label your story if it’s angst, smut, fluff etc.  

Feel free to incorporate this challenge with another one!  My goal is to interact more and read more from other talented authors I may not have read before

Tag your fic with #supravenghit500 and @supraveng

Deadline to post in order to include you on the supravenghit500 masterlist is September 1st

TITLES for your fic - I have added the blogs to their chosen titles

1.Clue of the Cold Creek

2. The Society of La dee da @supraveng (yes, I’m participating too)

3.Chain the Devil @jensen-ackles-girl​

4.Thief of Spades 

5.Cosmic Dust @tuiccim

6.Secrets of Kissing @teddybeardoctorr​ & @all-4-wincest​ 

7.The Dancing Statue @marvelcriminalhoe​

8.Assassin’s Daughter/Son

9.The Forgotten Amulet @mermaidxatxheart​  @all-4-wincest​​

10.Time of the Damned  @nekoannie-chan​

11.Killing Midnight  @drkcnry67​

12.Crime of the Porter

13.Stolen Knight  @drkcnry67​

14.Cloaked Heart @mostly-marvel-musings​  & @tinawritesstuff​​

15.Perfect Storm  @swiftlymoniquesblog​

16.Ark Ticking

17. The Shattered Lady/Son @crazyunsexycool​  & @tinawritesstuff​​​

18.Best of Show @captainapple​

19.The Prophecy

20.Considerate Crimes

A/N: If you are a mutual I have tagged you for 2 reasons, I love your blog and would love to see what you come up with & if you can please reblog, even if you aren’t participating, it would make me so happy

@missvelvetsstuff @michelleleewise @marvelcriminalhoe @starbxcks @crazyunsexycool  @buckmepapi @izziejomarbles  @thenhewaswrongaboutme @onesketchylady @the-pit-of-fandoms  @jadeylovesmarvelxo @bucky-bucky-bucky-bucky  @time-for-a-lullaby @captainapple  @altriestowrite @marvelousluci  @fluffycutecevans  @stevesbestgirl  @old-enough-to-know-better73  @theshakykid  @anbudrky2021  @ladyfallonavenger  @niffala  @yeezhelpus  @thighs-of-betrayal-blog  @crazylittlereader2474  @all-4-wincest  @milkathedudz  @n3ssm0nique  @superavengerpotterstar  @labella420  @calaofnoldor  @countryrockmama  @learisa  @hailhydra920  @2ghostsparker @vannybarber @iamwarrenspeace  @iheartsebstan  @agalsmaraudersobsession  @tinawritesstuff  @syntheticavenger  @jensen-ackles-girl  @just-a-wayward-girl  @world-of-aus @cheriesteve  @mostly-marvel-musings @starbuckie @tuiccim @jbarness @buckys-little-hoe  @that-sarcastic-slytherin  @evergreencowboy  @snffbeebee  @starstruckpersonearthquake  @babygirlkiki1016  @a-spooky-cutie  @sweetness47 @wordywarriorwrites  @itsunclebucky  @deanwanddamons  @lxvesickreality  @hoboal87 @dark-wicked-marvel-fics  @the--sad--hatter  @kalesrebellion  @67-chevy-baby  @farfromjustordinary  @mushyjellybeans  @kkbaby2121  @vampirodelascajas @mermaidxatxheart  @queen-lists  @lotusss-flowerbomb  @smurfnawesome  @doctorlilo  @southerncross47 @muchamusedaboutnothing  @teddybeardoctorr  @stoneyggirl  @deanswaywardgirl  @jensens-snackles @firefly-in-darkness  @swiftlymoniquesblog  @captaindeanwinchesterforever @gabrieltrash @youdontlovemeinawayiunderstand @sour-kangaroo1998 @shubhra-nikky  @a-jynx  @fromsamwtocordellw @idreamofplaid @vampire-parade @catbxy @ourloveisforthelovely  @destielhoneybee  @fairlyanathematic @iamcumberlover  @sleepywinchester

[ali-r3n]

Yes that was the fic!! Thanks sm for going out our way to find it, I really appreciate it ❤️

You’re welcome. I’m glad I could help 💜

@niffala is the one who found it

[altriestowrite]

Locker Room

This is basically a master list where you can see the whole list of stories I have done and are planning to do.

There will be a brief summary without any spoilers and I know I should put it with the story but blah.

I take requests for any marvel characters.

If you want to get tagged then fill this~~~~~ Then dm me to be removed. :)

I won't be sad really :(

I will mope around for some time and be back to writing.

Just kidding.

This is my ao3 account and I don't post my Tumblr fics there but there are different types of fics. Like this.

I love writing angst fics and just because I make the characters do immoral things, I don't have any hate for them. :)

And read the warnings and be wary of the shit I write.

~~{Key:-Angst-⇎ Smut-⨖ Fluff-ↈ Dark-■}~~

||BUCKY BARNES||

Backup

Bucky Barnes x Reader, Bucky Barnes x Natasha Romanoff

You were ready to get over your love for Bucky, but he still needs you.

[⇎ slightly■ characters]

Dramatic Love

Bucky Barnes x Reader

It's complicated.

[slightly ↈ and ⇎ ]

Unreciprocated*new

Bucky Barnes x Reader

It's easy to start loving someone unrequitedly. It's stupid, pathetic, hopeless, and romantic.

[only ⇎]

||STEVE ROGERS||

Always with you

Steve Rogers x Reader

"But that freshly manicured hand trying to pat him comfortingly on his back pissed you off. See how you said 'trying' because Steve didn't look a bit comfortable under her imposing presence. But he didn't push her handoff."

[slightly ↈ and ⇎ ]

Get/Got Back Together

[~~~~1~~~~] {~~~~2~~~~]

Steve Rogers x Reader

He could have been clear with his intentions.

Then it would have hurt less.

[only ⇎]

Lucid

Steve Rogers x reader

You could only wish he treated you delicately like he did with that compass.

[only ⇎]

Regrets

Part-1 Part-2

Steve Rogers x reader, Peggy Carter x Steve Rogers

He only wished he had you when he didn't have her.

[only ⇎]

Traitor

Steve Rogers x Reader

He didn't cheat, but he might just well have.

[only ⇎]

Fill this~~~~ to get tagged :) And dm me if I miss anyone.

@obsidian-fury @pspice639 @peterfromtheavengers @niffala @flightlesslittlebirdie @wrongxwriter @marvelfansworld @lovely-geek @wonwooen @hoeforstucky @denissjmdx @loluwishxz @wayward-timetravel-collector @allesiamassimo @glowingmess @supernatural-fan151 @osterfieldshollandgirl @mellifluousbabe @bellemile @the-cheese1

[niffala]

I Quit Masterlist

Pairing: Ransom Drysdale & OFC (Elizabeth)

Summary: Ransom takes a special interest in Harlan’s new private chef

Warnings: some smut, noncon touching, dubcon, harassment, Ransom is his usual asshole self.

A/N: Reader insert version found here. Takes place mid-November 2013. About five years before the movie. The Thrombeys’ opinions are NOT my own. Thoughts are in Italics. 18+ only due to smut and dubcon situations. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated.

Main Masterlist

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5 (coming soon)

Chapter 6

Chapter 7 (End)

[niffala]

Love Me Again

Pairing: Jake Jensen & Plus-size OFC (Maisie)

Summary: Jake’s back, but the Loser’s sixth member is still M.I.A.

Warnings: fluff, angst, feels, bad attempt at humor, guns, killings, mention of memory loss, post breakup, enemies to lovers

A/N: This is a sequel to You Loved Me Once. Reader insert version found here. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated. 

You Loved Me Once    Main Masterlist     

Clay’s unit awaited him in a motel parking lot in Adelaide. He secured their post mission rooms and returned keys in hand. "Okay, I got good news and bad news... We can all look forward to hot showers, clean sheets, and a complimentary breakfast. However, there were only three rooms available, so we will have to share.”

The responding groans of protest were expected. “Would you prefer to sleep on the ground for another night? No? So shut your pieholes.” Clay pocketed one of the keycards and set the remaining on the vehicle in front of him. “Aisha will be sharing with me. One room has a king, the other two double beds. Work it out amongst yourselves.”

Wordlessly, Jensen, Cougar and Pooch launched into a game of rock paper scissors. It had been weeks of travel, tents and living on top of one another. The victor cheered, scooping up the keycard to the private room.

“No! Come on, best two out of three.” When his friend shook his head, Jensen changed tactics, “I’ll give you that bitching crossbow I got last op if you switch with me… my watch… a hundred bucks. I’ll even throw in a foot massager, top of the line.”

“No way man. I need a night to myself. The Pooch has earned this.”

Jensen hung his head, accepting defeat. Bunking with his bestie wasn’t so bad, at least there were separate beds. Sharing one with Cougar wasn’t fun, the man was a cover hog. Jake was still grateful Clay reinstated him eight months ago. His teammates were ambivalent about him at first, but eventually everything returned to normal. Well, almost everything.

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

The Loser’s current operation led them to South Australia. They’d been hired by a distraught (and wealthy) father as part of a rescue team. He hadn’t seen nor heard from his daughter, Isla, in two years. She had been kidnapped by an illegal arms dealer who forced her into marriage. All prior attempts to get her back had failed. No amount of negotiation, payment, threats or pleading could sway the nefarious man to return her.

A rendezvous with the rest of the group at their makeshift campsite, plus a thirty minute drive east put the Humvees at the perimeter of the target’s estate. “Alright, you all know the drill,” Clay barked into the comms. “We get our asses in there, extricate the woman, send her back to her daddy, and take down anyone that stands in our way.”

Meanwhile their tech genius had already hacked into the system to disable the security and jam communications. Once the cameras powered down, Pooch floored it, ramming through the gate, the other two vehicles followed close behind.

“Eww... This guy’s got raptors picking at a bunch of bones and sinew on his property, always a good sign. You’d think he'd want to be more inconspicuous.”

Pooch’s face scrunched up at the image, “Pretty sure that's just a dead animal.”

Jake shook his head, pursing his lips in mock disapproval. “There's a lot of places to bury a body in a vineyard, all I’m saying. Keep the place tidy.”

“Thanks for the tip,” Aisha deadpanned.

“What do you call that… carrion, right?”

Clay grumbled from the front, “I'm close to calling it Jensen.”

“Yes, sir. I hear ya loud and clear. Shutting up…” he paused for dramatic effect, “now!”

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

“This whole goddamn thing’s going tits-up!” Clay had thought his team was prepared, ready to engage the moment they entered the property, but the intel their employer provided was crap. The location was more heavily armed than believed. His unit was at a disadvantage despite the extra help. Outmanned and outgunned, a few men were down and one lost within the first ten minutes.

“Well look at the bright side, we're outside enjoying some fresh...” Jensen’s quip went unfinished as he dove for cover. Incoming drones zoomed through the air spraying bullets. They must have been linked to an independent off sight system because the primary and secondary security had been obliterated. 

Jake focused the scope of his rifle, aiming at the nearest flying pest. “Here birdie birdie…” ‘Wait. That - that’s.’ Still in disbelief, he shouted, “Guys! Guys, that's one of Maisie’s drones!”

Pooch was skeptical, “How can you be sure?”

“Cause they’re like my step kids. Franny, Freddy, Felix, Frank and Foxy. It’s been painted, but that's Frank,” he insisted before taking off, sprinting toward the assailing device.

Clay eyes widened at the other man’s actions, “Jensen, you realize it's shooting at us! Stand down!” Seeing his order ignored, he screamed at the rest of his group, “Cover his dumb ass.”

Disregarding his boss, Cougar pulled out his cellphone and spoke in hushed tones to the person on the other end.

Aisha grit her teeth at her teammate while continuing to fire at their opponents. “That idiot lost his mind, now our sniper decides to make a phone call mid battle. Are you ordering a pizza?”

“Don't forget the breadsticks,” Pooch chimed in. Laughing at the increasing absurdity of the situation.

Jake removed his helmet and dropped his weapon. Frantically jumping and waving his arms, repeatedly calling out ‘Angel.’ A drone moved in and shot at his feet, before slightly pulling back, continuing to hover above him.

“Understood. Our apologies. Copy that.” Cougar hung up and waited.

The remaining drones collected above Jensen’s head. The hair on the back of his neck stood on end. However the moment he dreaded never came. The devices turned and began taking out the guards with quick precision. When only Clay’s men remained, they flew off. 

Sticking to the plan, the team continued to the manor. Wary of a possible ambush awaiting beyond the front door, in lieu of breaking it down, Clay instructed Jensen and Cougar to go through the nearest second floor windows, clear the immediate area and let them in.

Cougar nodded, but walked right through the unlocked door instead. To everyone’s shock but his, it was clear. Raising his chin toward the staircase, he proceeded up them.

“Okay, so we're just following him then?”

Clay shrugged, “Good enough for me.” He had the Losers head upstairs, leaving the rest of the group to keep watch at the entrance.

Cougar seemingly knew exactly where to go. Navigating the twists and turns of the large house with ease. Any lingering guards they came across were swiftly handled. Within the master bedroom’s closet, hidden behind sliding shelving they found a 16-point locking, bullet resistant, biometric fingerprint panic room door. 

Before Jensen could get his gear out to crack it, Cougar tapped the scanner, confirming it was off. He pulled the heavy door open, immediately shooting the two guards inside as if he was expecting them.

Jensen scratched his head. Not knowing what to make of it. “What is going on?... Are you a T-1000… What's my dog's name?”

Cougar just looked at him and chuckled.

“You laugh, but I'm legitimately concerned.”

Clay took point, announcing his entrance into the room, “Honey, I'm home.”

The occupants sat on a couch, Isla held a crying baby in her arms, wincing from her husband's hand on her thigh, squeezing painfully tight. The baby’s presence gave everyone pause. No one was aware there would be a child involved. There has been one surprise after another today.

“You lost, asshole. Now let them go and come quietly.” Clay slung his rifle over his shoulder and moved toward them, attempting to calmly apprehend the man.

The target pulled out a gun, shoving it into Isla’s side. “Stay where you are.”

“Don't be like that. This doesn't have to get more ugly than it already is.”

Seething, the man turned the gun on Clay, who discharged his sidearm, firing two shots into the arms dealer’s chest before he could blink. The group hurriedly moved Isla and her baby out of the building into one of their vehicles. Assuring the frightened woman that she was safe and going back to her father.  Pooch voiced his concern over their lack of carseat.

“Then drive extra carefully.” Clay smiled at the rescuees, “Let's get you both home.”

Riding in the second Humvee, Jake stared down a silent Cougar. He offered no explanation as to why Maisie's drones were on the property or who he had called, but it was pretty easy to connect the dots.

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

Hours later, Isla and her daughter were safely on their way home. At Cougar’s request, and after a stop at the motel for much needed showers, the team waited at a bar in the city. Leaving one chair empty, correctly guessing who they should be expecting.

Jake was a bundle of nerves. The hand gripping his empty glass started to cramp as he watched the door. He wondered if they had Boys II Men on the jukebox to help set the mood. ‘Would that be too presumptuous? She probably moved on by now. Has a new special someone in her life. Somebody else loving her, touching her, making her laugh.’ He wouldn’t blame her. His amnesia may have been temporary, but the damage he caused wasn't.

“You stare at that door any harder and it will burst into flames.” Aisha refilled her teammates' glass, encouraging him to relax and breathe.

“She'll be here soon, won't she? She's still coming, right?”

Maisie took a deep breath before entering the tavern. Her former teammates were easy to spot. Cougar gave her his number when she quit, asking her to keep in touch. It took a few months before she found the strength to do so. Even after learning of her exs' recovery, she couldn't bring herself to return yet. She wanted her Jakey back, but was scared of his rejection. Plus she was on assignment, the timing was off. The weight of this reunion wasn’t lost on her. “Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, you losers walk into mine.”

“Well that's unfair, you walked in after us.” Grinning ear to ear, Clay pulled her into a tight hug. “Missed ya, Maise.”

“I had a few things to handle before getting here. So you beat me, but I've been dying to say it." She squeezed Clay tight before facing the rest. "I missed you all too. Sorry about earlier, I didn’t recognize you guys in all that fancy schmancy gear.”

Jake felt unsteady the moment she walked in, his blood roared in his ears. It was really her, his Angel, more gorgeous than ever. He watched her warm greeting with Clay, swallowing a lump in his throat. She was wearing the jacket he bought her. He hoped that was a good sign.

The group stood to welcome and embrace their former member. Jake waited through the exchange of pleasantries for his turn. Longing to throw his arms around his Angel and hold her close. It had been nearly a year since he’d done so. Ten months, three days and seventeen hours since he kissed her goodbye to go on that ill fated mission.

However, he noticed Maisie’s smile falter when their eyes met. Abandoning his desired hug, he forced a smile, awkwardly waved and sat back down.

“Hey Jake.” She crossed her arms, suddenly feeling self-conscious in front of her old love.

As everyone took their seats, Jensen glanced at the entrance then back at his Angel. “So are we um… waiting for anybody else?”

“Like who?”

“No-nobody. Nobody. Just wanted to make sure there was room for everybody. Everybody together again. It’s good to be together.” Jake took a long sip of his beer. His brain screamed with the knowledge that there was no boyfriend in the picture.

Maisie filled them in on her whereabouts since her departure. She’d gotten a job as private security for some rich asshole’s wife. Mostly involved keeping her in and others out. The winery was lovely, but the running of guns and heavier artillery, and the dabbling in human trafficking ruined the ambience. Of course, she knew he was dirty when she accepted the position, so Maisie did all she could to throw wrenches into his operations without being detected. Quietly dispersed his ill gotten gains into several hidden bank accounts, the biggest for Isla. She was helping the wife and baby prepare for a safe and covert escape. Simultaneously gathering evidence against the husband and his associates.

“It was all set to go down in a few days, and you guys just broke in and killed him. All that planning and hard work for nothing.” Maisie shoved Clay’s shoulder.

“Yeah, well it was the quickest way. Can’t argue that.”

“Well, I wasn’t going to let months of work go to complete waste. So I allowed you guys to be the heroes while I tied up some loose ends. That’s why I was late. Had to reroute the latest shipments, funnel the rest of the money to charities, victims and of course, a nice sum for myself. Scrubbed the camera footage and removed any evidence of us or Isla being there. Then I alerted the authorities to handle the rest. They’ll find all they need to take down the whole thing.” She took a deep breath, trilling her lips to exhale. “But I’m still mad at you about it.”

Aisha offered compensation, “I don’t think anyone here will object if you want in on the pallet of wine we rescued."

“Bold of you to assume I didn't take my own,” Maisie laughed.

After a few rounds, the Losers felt they were sufficiently caught up on each others lives. Pooch and Cougar announced they were going to play stripes and solids, inviting Aisha and Clay as their opponents. It was obvious that was an excuse to leave the ex-lovers alone.

Jake wasn’t going to turn down the opportunity. Putting on his most charming smile, he slid over next to Maisie. “G’day mate, fancy meeting you down unda. Maybe I can show you my down unda lata. I promise I'm koala-fied.” He tittered at his themed pickup line, but she didn't react. He desperately wanted to make her laugh. If she laughed, he knew things would be okay.

Trying to shake off the nervousness, he cleared his throat and continued his attempted seduction. “I like your jacket, where’d you get it?” He couldn’t backpedal fast enough seeing the alarmed look on her face. “Joke, really bad joke. Oh my god, I'm sorry. That was… Fuck,” he grimaced.

Maisie remained stiff and unsure. Wanting to give in to his flirting, but waiting for the other shoe to drop. The defeated look on Jake’s face broke her heart, so she attempted to bridge the divide with a safe topic, “How are Stephanie and Hannah?”

“They're good, they're good, um,” he scratched the back of neck, unsure how to proceed. His sister, having seen him at plenty of his worsts, forgave him instantly. His niece took a little bribery, but they were back to their usual shenanigans. “So, uh thanks for clearing the way for us back there, you know, after you shot at me.”

Her mouth dropped open, “Excuse me, I shot near you.”

“Tomato-tomahto.”

Cougar gestured with his eyes over to Jensen and Maisie, knowing he was striking out. Pooch got the hint. He called the man over and handed him his room key. Demanding he take it before he changed his mind. Jake practically ran back to the table to ask Maisie to his room to talk in private. He was amazed she agreed.

Aisha’s lips pursed watching the pair leave. “If he doesn't blow this, we'll have to put up with them being nauseatingly cute with each other again.”

“You don't want them to make up?” Clay rested his hands on her waist.

“I do,” she huffed. “Look, I don't know if I believe in that true love, princess bride, bullshit. But they are the closest I've ever seen to it... They belong together.”

“Agreed.”

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

The entire car ride to the motel passed in uncomfortable silence. Both anxious and unsure about the outcome of this night. Each stealing glances at the other. Jake noticed how hard her hand clenched around the steering wheel. Maisie caught sight of each time his hand reached for the radio before pulling away without turning it on.

Jake felt butterflies in his stomach as they pulled in the lot. Painful butterflies… Vampire butterflies. He drummed on his legs before hopping out of the vehicle. Maisie was quick to follow. They walked to the room without a word shared. Jake kept looking over his shoulder to make sure she was still with him. He swiped the keycard several times without success. The red light and negative beep mocking him. The twisting in his belly intensified. ‘Yep definitely vampire butterflies.’

Finally, the door flashed green and unlocked. He sauntered in, pretending to be calmer than he really was. Turning on the old Jensen charm, he bowed and waved his hand over the large bed. “Have a seat, m'lady. It’s not exactly the Ritz, but I hope it will be to your liking.”

“It's a nice room. We've stayed in much worse.” She spotted the bobblehead chihuahua on the nightstand, smiling coyly as she sat down. “So this is Pooch’s room?”

“Nah, it's mine. At least now it is.” He plopped down beside Maisie. “Sooo, how’ve ya been?”

“Good, until earlier today when I lost my job and residence cause some assholes charged in guns blazing.” Maisie sighed dramatically, “At least I can take solace in knowing Isla and her daughter are home safe. What about you?”

“I - I’m okay… most days. Um, so what's next for you? Seeing as how your life's been upended by a bunch of inconsiderate assholes.”

Maisie hummed, thinking of a response. “Well, I’ll have a lot of time on my hands, plus a bunch of money. So I'll probably make a few brothers and sisters for the F-team. Maybe one with a flamethrower.”

He turned to her with a lopsided grin. “That would be badass, like its maker.”

Maisie’s heart fluttered. He looked at her with such adoration, like she held all life's answers.  That, that was her Jakey.

“Looks like the possibilities are endless now that you're homeless and unemployed.” Jake’s eyes squeezed shut, cringing. Not meaning to sound so callous.

She snorted, “I'm sure I'll be fine. I always land on my feet.”

Jake breathed a sigh of relief that she found humor in the situation. “Definitely, definitely… But if you're interested, I know of a job opening. Fast paced, high stakes, danger… romance,” he whispered the last word, blushing. “It’s with a great bunch called the Losers. I could put in a good word for you. In fact, I'm sure the two of us could strong-arm the boss to agree to any demands we want.”

“I'd have to move back to the states.”

“If you need a place to stay, your key still works… I um, kept the house. After you quit, I kinda skipped town. Woke up in Ohio about a month later. At first I completely panicked cause I didn't know where you were or where I was. Then it hit me that I REALLY didn't know where you were… and it was all my fault,” his voice cracked, on the verge of crying.

Her head lowered, unable to hold back her own tears. ‘If I had only waited longer.’ “You must be so disappointed in me for not sticking it out when you weren't yourself. I tried, I swear I did, but it was too much. I should have been stronger and held on until you were you again. I’m so sorry, Jakey.”

“No, Angel no.” he wiped Maisie’s cheeks with his thumb. “There's nothing to forgive. You didn’t abandon me, I drove you away. I don't blame you at all. Hell, I deserved it. I was a total asshole.” Jake took a deep breath, “I was so angry… I was in pain, confused. I felt trapped with no room to breathe. Was sick of everybody telling me things I was supposed to already know. Telling me over and over to relax and let myself recover when I couldn't calm down to save my life. I kept fighting with my sister, was short with my niece, rude and snapped at everyone… And you got the worst of it… When I saw you, there was something there in the back of my mind, just out of reach. I didn’t know what it was, but I knew your presence made my headache worse. So I aimed my frustration at you and chased you off. I can't say how sorry I am.”

Maisie gently touched Jake’s head, running her fingers through his hair and rubbing small circles with her fingers. The urge to comfort him stronger than any apprehension she felt before.

Jake leaned into her touch, “It's all better now. I'm better… I wish this was a cartoon so you could've wacked me in the head again to reset my brain and stop all the bullshit I put everyone through.”

She pulled her hand away too soon. “I'm glad you're better… You really hurt me, Jake, but you have to know I already forgave you.”

His eyebrows shot up, “You have? That fast? Are you certain, I mean…"

“It took some time. Months to push through that pain, but I'd be the bigger jerk if I didn't take into consideration that it wasn't completely your fault. You literally had a doctor's note to prove it.” Maisie smiled at him, brushing away a few more escaped tears.

“So you don't hate me?”

“I could never hate you, Jakey. Do you hate me?”

“Impossible.”

“It's going to continue to sting for a while though.”

He nods in understanding. Jake got on his knees before her, taking her hands in his, his face more serious than she's ever seen him. “I need you to believe me when I say I have NEVER thought those horrible things about you. You didn't deserve any of the awful things I said and I swear I didn't mean them. You’re my perfect Angel and I love everything about you. Every curve, every line, each and every inch of beautiful skin because it’s yours. You are the most incredible person I ever met and I can't stand knowing that I made you feel otherwise for even a minute. Please say you believe me.”

“I do.”

Jake leaned in and placed a soft kiss on her lips. He couldn’t believe how lucky he was to have her back.

Maisie returned the brief kiss. This was a good start, but she was exhausted. “It’s been a long day. I don’t know about you, but I’m wiped out. Can we pretend, just for tonight, that we’re good? That everything is back to normal? We can work on us in the morning, and everyday after, but right now I just need you and unconsciousness.”

‘She wants to sleep here, in my bed, with me.’ Jake jumped up, enthusiastically agreeing. His pants down around his ankles in an instant.

Her face became heated at Jake’s sudden nudity. Maisie bit her lips, shyly telling him she was going to change in the bathroom.

Jake realized he was jumping the gun. He pulled up his batman boxers, removed his shoes and remaining clothing. He turned the toy dog around, just in case. “Sorry mini Pooch, no looky loos.”

Maisie walked out in panties and t-shirt, tugging it down in an attempt to hide more of herself as she skittered to the bed and got under the covers. Jake frowned, he needed to mend his Angel's heart, squash the insecurities he created. He scrambled up the bed, took his glasses off and sat them on the nightstand. Hesitating at the edge of the bed.

“You can come closer.”

He didn't need to be told twice, scooting over and joining her under the covers. He sat next to her, tentatively wrapping his arm around her shoulders. Intent on never leaving her side again. “Hey, tomorrow, do you want to check out this awesome mini golf course I found? Just the two of us.” The smile that adorned his face when she agreed fell. His voice lowered to a whisper, “I'm terrified of screwing this up.”

“So am I,” Maisie admitted, lacing her fingers with his.

Jake kissed the top of her head. “I don't think I ever told you.”

“Hmm?”

“The moment I knew this was it for me… Remember our first comic con together, we had that bet going on over how many people we could get to follow us doing the bunny hop around the convention center. I said five, you bet nine, and we ended up having thirty-five people in line behind us.” He chuckled at the memory. “We had Link, predator, three Spidermans, a wookiee in a bikini and just so many others. I was behind you, my hands on your hips having the time of my life. And there was a moment midjump, midlaugh, when you looked back at me, making sure I was having fun too, and I knew with absolute certainty that I was going to love you for the rest of my life. That you were the one for me and there'd never be anyone else. That hasn't changed.”

Maisie’s eyes watered, an unreadable expression on her face. Somewhere between disbelief and amusement. “I knew then too. Slowly throughout the day, then all at once in one defining moment. You were like a squirrel darting around, but you never lost me. You held my hand the whole time, squeezing it when you felt me get nervous. And when we parted for even a minute, you always found me. But the moment that sealed it was when we stopped for refreshments. I couldn't drink my water properly because of my costume and seeing my struggle, without a word, you slid behind the counter, grabbed a straw and placed it in my drink, holding it to my lips. It was something so small but so considerate. I've never had anyone be so sweet to me. I never had anyone look out for me like you did. I knew you were the one for me.”

Not trusting his voice, Jake kissed the hand he held.

“I love you, Jakey.”

His heart skipped a beat. “I love you, my Angel.” The reunited couple shared another kiss before lying down. Maisie snuggled into his chest and closed her eyes. Jake wrapped his arms around her. “Would it be wrong if I copped a feel right now?” 

She laughed, “I missed you so much.”

Jake blinked back tears. He thought he'd never hear that sound again. “I missed you more.”

A few peaceful minutes passed, her warm breath ghosting over his chest. He noticed she was trying to stay awake. Each time she began to drift, her eyes popped open to search for him. He rubbed her back to soothe her asleep. “I'm still here. I'm not going anywhere, Angel, I promise.” Jake made sure she was sleeping soundly, before he allowed himself to follow her into slumber. 

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

Heading to his original room to get his belongings, Pooch was halted by a hand on his shoulder. Cougar, refusing to let Jensen and Maisie be disturbed, turned his friend around and led him to their shared room.

Pooch glanced back with a frown, “I'll guess I’ll get it in the morning.”

Cougar nodded, smiled and patted his shoulder. Tomorrow was looking like a very good day. The Loser’s would be a full team once more and his best friend would have the love of his life back. He didn’t save his best man’s speech for nothing.

The End

A/N: Thank you to everyone that has read. I appreciate you all. I’d love to know your thoughts.

[niffala]

Forgive Me (Pt. 2)

Warnings: Angst, heartbreak, jealousy, some fluff

A/N: This is a sequel to Dirty Secret. Reader insert version found here. 18+ only due to smut. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated.

Chapter 1 Series Masterlist       Main Masterlist

Chapter 2

[2 years later]

Nick Fury strode into the conference room, his signature leather coat flapping behind him. An opposing figure in his own right, his presence today reminded Steve of a raven. Bad news surely followed.

The former SHIELD director stood at the head of the table, his eye sweeping around at those present before pulling up a hologram of a large domed building. “There is a hostage situation at the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre, one hundred and fifty-seven hostages being held at the secondary stage. Mainly local and foreign dignitaries and their respective families. The cameras have been taken out, but thermal imaging shows what appears to be twenty-seven armed radicals.” A sweep of his hand had the image zoom in on a single blazing red figure. “One of whom is pyrokineticly enhanced.”

Another wave and the hologram refocused on the entrance. “So far the casualties have been security personnel and the initial law enforcement response team, now reduced to a pile of char. It has been twenty-four hours and counting. I don't give a shit about their demands, shut it down. Preferably with minimal collateral damage. These situations can get very ugly, very quickly. Russian security forces are preparing to storm the building in a few hours. We're talking heavy casualties. This is what I'm counting on you to prevent. I can’t emphasize enough the shitstorm that will take place if this situation goes sideways. The world is watching, this needs to be handled with the utmost care. Get the hostages out swiftly and quietly. Assistance is on their way.

“Tony?”

“Stealth is not in Mr. Stark’s vocabulary. We're trying to avoid any collateral damage, this includes the building. Being a highly sensitive situation, I called in a favor with OISHA on the west coast. Luckily two of their agents were close by.” He turned his glare to Steve, “I asked for the best in extraction and rescue. I believe you are all familiar.”

Steve’s heartbeat spiked, Furry was talking about Marison. She was coming back.

“Her ETA is eight minutes. She's been fully briefed on the mission. You will head out together the moment her jet lands.”

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

Arrival time: four minutes, thirty-nine seconds. My stomach began doing summersaults the closer we got to the one place I never thought I’d return to. Beside me, my partner rolled his neck and shoulders, relaxed and unbothered by our destination. We’ve been a team for the last year, and good friends just as long. However, the dating part was a recent development.

Ben looked away from the controls, noticing I was rubbing my once brightly colored bracelet, a nervous habit I couldn’t break. He knew the circumstances of my separation from the Avengers. He took my hand and placed an exaggerated kiss on it, “You can do this.”

I’m not too sure about that. The mission, definitively in the bag. And I was looking forward to seeing everyone again, missing them all so damn much. They were the best part of my life… even ‘him.’ For too long I blamed myself for what happened, that I wasn’t good enough. But the truth was that what we had couldn’t last. Not the way it was, not in the dark. It was bound to break, I just wish it hadn’t broken me too.

Smiling back at Ben, I felt guilty. It'd be lying to say I didn't still think about ‘him’ constantly. See him in places he wasn't, like on my Paris trip. Things would be fine and then suddenly his memory would flood the moment. Creeping up in my mind like an all consuming fog. I hated it. He still held a big part of me. It seemed no matter what I did, I couldn't push him out of my heart, even after letting someone else in.

The first few weeks after my departure were the toughest. Everything felt raw, like an exposed nerve. I would always be grateful to Bucky for keeping me steady, helping me breathe. As impossible as it seemed at the time, things got better. I worked on myself, did my best to squash insecurities and lingering doubts. My shattered soul slowly pieced itself back together. Learning to sleep alone was its own hardship, but Bucky was there for that too.

I spent the first few weeks in nearby hotels until I felt ready to move on. Then I started traveling the globe, seeing the sights, having a few casual flings along the way. Started low-key super heroing again, helping those that I could. But I was lonely. My Avengers experience changed me. I couldn't live the solitary life I had before. I craved companionship, a purpose, a place to hang my hat.

Luckily, Fury was awaiting my call. He pointed me in a few directions, and gave me glowing recommendations. So I started a new job with the Operational Surveillance and Intelligence Agency. I had new teammates, a new home, and a new boyfriend. Ben was wonderful, charming and patient. We had similar senses of humor and just clicked. You think I'd learn to never date a coworker again. Once bitten, twice shy, and at times, I still felt covered in marks. His perfect teeth leaving wounds you couldn’t see.

“What's the number one rule?”

“If you sprinkle when you tinkle, be a sweetie and wipe the seatie.” I gave him my biggest shit eating grin.

Ben laughed before slipping back into his mask of seriousness. “If you get overwhelmed, talk to me.” Satisfied with my nod, he asked what my code name used to be.

Cringing, I grumbled out, “Luminescent.”

“Wow,” he snorted, “that is a terrible name.”

“Ugh, don’t remind me. Should have went with firefly.” I saw his eyes sparkle with amusement, mouth twisting into a devilish grin. “Keep looking at me like that, I'm going to bite your face.”

Ben leaned over and playfully bit at me. Laughing, he placed a kiss on my lips, “Aww, my little lightning bug.”

“Hardy, har har.” I returned his kiss, telling him I loved him. He says it back without hesitation.

The navigation system alerted us that we had arrived. As the jet landed, Ben asked if I wanted to walk out hand in hand, or if I wanted a head start. I told him I should face them myself, but for his cute butt to not be too far behind. He rubbed my back for encouragement. Okay, game face on.

-

Steve’s heart hammered so hard in his chest, he was surprised it wasn't visible. The world stopped as Marison exited the aircraft. She was breathtaking. Steve unabashedly stared, too afraid if he closed his eyes for a moment, she’d disappear, like in so many of his dreams. She came back. She came home.

Bucky was the first to greet her, running over and embracing her tightly. Steve could hear them mention the changes to the others' hair. 

Sam was next, bumping Bucky out of the way to wrap his arms around Marison. “Hey, Lumi, things haven't been the same without you.”

“I wish it was under better circumstances.”

She hugged a few more before she stood in front of Steve. His breathing became erratic when her eyes met his. As if his asthma returned and he was struggling to take in air. Neither moved.

Sam noticed the tension, “Oh come on, you can’t still be mad she quit.” He pulled them closer together, insisting on a hug.” I think our dear captain missed our useful teleporter. I’ve been having to lug his heavy butt around because we have yet to find anyone to replace you.”

“No, we certainly haven’t.” Steve put his arms around her, noticing Madison's body stiffen, but she was allowing it. He closed his eyes, confident in touch. He hasn't felt alive since she left, but she was real, she was here, she came back to him. Everything was going to be okay. He whispered in her ear, “I was so scared I'd never see you again.” 

Marison shoved him off and quickly moved away. His eyes snapped open, feeling the sharp sting of her rejection. He could kick himself. What, did he expect her to jump into his arms and tell him how much she missed him, still loved him, was just as miserable these last years as he was? Yes, his head mocked, yes you did. There was still hope, he knew she still...  

Suddenly, a man walked up behind Marison, enfolding her in his arms, clearly a familiar action. His slicked back hair was dark and wavy. A salt and pepper beard, dark brown eyes, and a nose that's been broken a few times only adding character to his handsome face. “I was getting jealous of the love fest Had to get some of that for myself, Sweetheart.”

She turned her head and to Steve’s horror, they kissed. She introduces the man as Ben, her partner and boyfriend. Steve felt his chest constrict, a vice gripping his heart. No, please no, he silently begged. He was always too late.

Maybe it wasn’t serious, he still had a chance. Maybe it was a ruse. He just needed to tell her how he feels and she'll be his again. She had to still love him. She had to. He won't give up. His fists clenched at his sides. “Wheels up in two. Let's move,” he barked.

Ben had not been authorized for this mission, for that Steve was relieved. He listens as the man tells Marison to be careful and that he loves her. When she said it back, Steve wanted to rip his ears off.

Chapter 3 (coming soon)

A/N: For so many reasons, this poor fic got pushed to the back burner for two darn years. A random dream a few nights ago gave me the inspiration to continue it.

[niffala]

Xanax & Things That go Bump in the Night (Pt. 2)

Warnings: a little angsty, a little sexy

A/N: Takes place fall of ‘86. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated. 

Chapter 1 Series Masterlist  Main Masterlist   

Chapter 2

Steve gaped at the haunting figure with wide startled eyes. Unsure of what he should do, or if this was even really happening.

In a blur, a pale hand reached out to close his mouth. Easily sliding past Steve, the other man strutted through the small apartment. Checking out his new surroundings before turning back to the transfixed brunette.

"What's wrong, Harrington? You look like you've seen a ghost."

Brows drawn together, Steve slowly shut the door, "No. I um…" His head whipped around in alarm, "WAIT, AM I?"

Eddie threw his arms out in front of him, wiggling his fingers as he moved closer, “Whoo-oo-oo-oo…” Once nose to nose, he captured Steve’s hand in his own, resting the other on his waist. He began swaying to a tune only he could hear. “What's the verdict, am I alive?”

“But, but I saw your body, you were dead. You died!” 

Eddie shrugged, “Temporarily. Woke up to a whole new me.” He slid his hand to Steve's back, pulling him tighter. Enjoying the feel of the man's body heat. 

“How are you here?” Steve whispered, his gaze shifting to their interlocked fingers. He could definitely feel the pressure of the other hand, and the chill. He doesn’t think his brain could make that up.

“Got pretty lonely down there with only screeching beasts and a veiny psychopath to keep me company. Guy’s like the love child of Darth Vader and Freddy Kruger,” Eddie shudders. “The weather also left a lot to be desired. I desperately needed a change of scenery and someone to talk to, so I flew out to find you, big boy.”

Steve’s face scrunched up as a thought occurred to him. “You’re what's been following me! Why did you wait so long to say something? I thought the worst.”

“I had to be sure I was in control.” The darker haired man let the weight of his words linger for a moment. “I called out to you several times, but you ignored me. Hurt my lil feelings.”

Steve pulled out of Eddie's embrace, heading for the telephone. "I have to tell the others."

He caught Steve's hand before he could pick up the receiver. "Not tonight. Let's keep it just you and me for now. What do ya say?" 

Eddie could hear the startled man's heartbeat thumping wildly in his chest. Unable to help himself, he buried his nose into Steve's neck, inhaling deeply.

Steve nervously backed away, scratching his cheek. Once again questioning his own sanity.

"You've never been scared of me before Harrington, don't start now."

"I- I'm not. This is just…" he swallowed. "A lot. It's a lot." Steve took a few more steps into the kitchen, opening cupboards and the fridge. He intended to offer a snack or beverage, but admitted the choices were limited to poptarts and tap water.

Eddie chuckled at the attempt at being a good host. "Sorry, that shit isn't in my approved diet anymore."

"Then what is?"

The pale guest smiled, showing off his prominent fangs. "Thought it was obvious; special liquid diet."

Steve's face fell, "Are you here to kill me?"

"Never. I wouldn't hurt you. I just missed you is all. Hoping you missed me too."

"Ya, I- I- I did. You made quite the impression on me. With your," he gestured to all of Eddie. "And your," he made another gesture Eddie couldn't interpret. "And just being you."

"Wow, Harrington, now I know how you got that King Steve playboy rep. With these eloquently honeyed words coming out of that pretty mouth, who could resist your charm." Eddie moves in again, placing both hands on the former jock's chest.

Steve blushes. Eddie has always been intense, unapologetically in your face, but this was different. The air around him was different, alluring, pulling him in. 

"Lucky for you, I have no intention of resisting you." Eddie paused, waiting for him to make the next move. 

The ticking of the wall clock and Steve's breathing were amplified in the quiet room. A pair of trembling arms wrapped around Eddie. Followed by lips nearing his own.

Suddenly, car lights shone through the window, reflecting off Eddie's eyes. Vickie was dropping Robin at home. 

Before his roommate could open the door, the man in his arms seemingly disappeared. Leaving Steve to wonder if it was all in his head.

Chapter 3 (coming soon)

[niffala]

You Loved Me Once

Pairing: Jake Jensen & Plus-size OFC (Maisie)

Summary: It couldn't be gone. Somewhere deep inside him, he remembered their love. He had to.

Warnings: fluff, angst, feels, humor, mentions of naughty times with food, injuries, car accident due to explosion, mention of guns and being shot and stabbed, concussion, memory loss, fat shaming, heartbreak, breakup, enemies to lovers to strangers

A/N: Barely proofread. Takes place roughly 5 years after the movie. Reader insert version found here. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated.

Main Masterlist

Jake Jensen tiptoed behind his niece, holding a finger to his lips to keep her friends mum about his presence. Carefully dropping a card into the hood of her zombie sweatshirt, he scampered away. The birthday girl would notice soon enough. And if not, her friends would point it out. The eighth graders well onto the sneaky uncle’s game.

Hannah was old enough that she preferred picking out her own things, but Jake hated the idea of just handing her a gift card. So he bought several for her favorite places; the ice cream parlor, the sporting goods store so she could get new cleats, the movies and so on. Throughout the party, Jake would stick a gift card in his niece's hoodie without her knowledge. The first was placed when he hugged her and wished her a happy birthday. Once discovered, he would find an opportunity to put in another.

Groaning, Stephanie plopped herself down, joining the table of chit-chatting adults. “You're a great uncle, but why did you have to convince her to have a zombie birthday?” She pointed an accusing finger at Jake, “Do you know how difficult it was to make a brain cake that oozes fake blood?”

“What? Christmas in July, zombies in June, not to mention 13 is an evil-evil number, made perfect sense to me.” He noticed out of the corner of his eye that Hannah found the gift card, pursing her lips in mock annoyance as she pocketed it. “Besides, Angel here deserves half the credit.”

Maisie scoffed, “Don’t throw me under the bus. Your sister knows this was all you.”

In reality they both had an obsession with the genre. The couple loved watching monster movies together. Gotten into more than one heated debate over who could defeat whom. Each of them had their favorite creature army and strategies. And although dead and undead things didn't technically qualify, it fell under a similar umbrella.

“Party’s almost over. Any exciting plans after this?”

“Hannah is spending the night at her best friend’s house. So I plan to finish a bottle of wine, and the rest of that cake, while I watch my show and pass out. Then tomorrow, she has to be back by noon, to start her project on ‘armadillos and their impact on the environment.’ Don’t forget, Jake, you promised to help her research for the report and make a diorama.”

“Ooh, I can help too. I know lots of armadillo facts. They’re insectivores… they love to swim… give birth to identical quadruplets, and their armor is tougher than a 9mm.”

Jake threw his arm around his girlfriend, “My Angel is so helpful.” As he spoke, his niece walked by with her overnight bag. He quickly placed another card into her hood without missing a beat. “I can’t wait to get you home, watch Godzilla kick some Ghidorah butt. Maybe have my favorite snack, a little taste of the rainbow,” he grinned, wiggling his eyebrows.

Stephanie cringed at the suggestive tone, “Eww, I don't even want to know.”

Hannah began to put on her shoes to leave, finding another gift card inside the left one. “UNCLE J!”

Looking as smug as ever, Jake grabbed Maisie’s hand, announcing that was their cue to leave.

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

The day Clay introduced Maisie to the team, Jake didn’t take too kindly to her. Giving any reason he could think of as to why The Losers didn’t need a sixth member. Determined to prove her untrustworthy and unnecessary, he drilled her about the drones she makes and her qualifications, trying to catch her in a lie.

He didn't find one, and Clay insisted that she would be an asset. While the rest of the unit was in the field, Maisie would be at home, providing remote support. So Jensen could focus on staying alive instead of his computer. It didn't stop him from feeling like he was being replaced. He was the tech guy, why did they need her?

"Just so we're clear, Maisie, if that is your real name, I am hacker A and you are hacker B. I was here first and I'm not going anywhere."

After the first operation she more than proved her usefulness. Research, logistics, hacking, navigation, and drone assistance. Her drones gave them a bird's eye view, cameras, surveillance, real time topography, thermal imaging, warning systems, an extra set of guns and more.

It was impossible to deny she knew what she was doing. They only walked away in one piece because of her. But it wasn’t until Jake was making his usual attempt at humor mentioned battling kaiju, that the most beautiful sound graced his earpiece. Maisie was laughing, she understood the joke. She then told him a real kaiju would stomp him into monster toe jam, giving Jake a fit of clamorous snorting and wheezing.

“Careful there, Jakey, I don’t want to have to call the paramedics because you passed out.”

He heard the smile in her voice, he couldn’t get enough. “I changed my mind. You are now hacker A. A for Angel.”

Everything changed after that day. Jake flirted with her constantly on comms, much to his teammates' chagrin. His nonsensical banter was now mostly aimed to amuse her. He loved hearing her heavenly voice in his ear. Willing to do whatever it took to make her laugh. The more time he spent speaking with her, the harder he fell. There was an undeniable connection between them.

"So my beautiful Angel, keeping an eye on us from high above, when will you grace me with a date?" Jake had asked before and she had let him down gently. He had to try one more time, even if it led to another rejection.

"I told you, I don't date coworkers. Not even reeeaaally cute ones," she whined. Once again regretting the no.

"I know, but we're more like… long distance coworkers." He smiled to himself, lowering his voice to what he considered a sexy tone, "We work oceans apart so we can be skin to supple naked skin at home… and occasionally other locations. So it's not really breaking your rule."

Maisie giggled, "How can I say no when you put it like that."

"Soooo that's a yes?"

She couldn't help but give in to his dorky charm. "Yes, you can take me out when you're stateside. We'll see where this goes."

"Oh it's going. It's going so far you won't know where the hell we are. Just me and you, lost with nothing but a flashlight and our body heat to keep us warm."

There it was again, his favorite sound.

Four years later Jake still makes inappropriate comments over comms. Their relationship remained strong. Their love and devotion never wavering. Maisie didn't know Jake had been hunting for the perfect ring and planning a big proposal. He wanted to get it just right, his Angel deserved no less.

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

“Let's get it oooonnnn.

Let's love, baby.

Let's get it oooonnnn, suGAR.

Let's get it oooonnnn, woo hooooooooo.”

An hour and a half outside one of Sri Lanka’s capitals, the roar of a large truck speeding down a dirt road, was accompanied by very offkey, shrill singing.

Pooch gripped the steering wheel tightly, turning his head briefly to yell at the offending teammate, “Shut up Jensen. You sound like a cat being skinned alive.”

The criticism didn’t bother Jake at all. “Don't be a party pooper, Linwood, I’m serenading my love.”

Maisie shook her head, smiling to herself. “You can sing to me later Jakey. Give the guys ears a break.”

“My gorgeous sexy Angel, when I return, I want to run a hot bubble bath for us. I need to feel those pretty nails scratch down my back. Then I’ll order sushi so you eat it off my naked body. This may or may not be followed by an equally sexy shower.”

"Clay, if I have to listen to this much longer, I'm gonna stab him." Aisha had enough. His lovesick screeching needed to be stopped.

Jake grinned ear to ear, placing his hands behind his head, "What can I say, she loves the angle of my dangle.”

“Okay, The Pooch does not need to hear about the weird Klingon sex or whatever you two are having.”

“Ooh Angel, HIja' bangwI' Ha'.”

"That’s enough,” Clay snapped. “Stop giving them new kinks and focus. The compound is eight klicks ahead. So unless you want to die today, zip it."

“You got it boss. Playtime’s over.” Jake’s voice became gruff and ominous, “Their evil lair looms in the distance. We must prepare our shields and sharpen our silver swords.”

“They aren’t werewolves... I don’t think.” Checking that her drones were in place and out of sight, Maisie cleared her throat, “Alright, it looks like the first set of guards are stationed in an armored vehicle outside the northwest entrance. All clear beyond that gate as of now.”

Clay nodded, “Copy that.”

“Come home to me safe Jakey.”

“Always my Angel. Love you.”

“Love you.”

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

All targets were eliminated, the team was on their way back to the hotel, the coast should have been clear. The explosion shocked everyone when an IED detonated under their truck. Four crawled out of the wreckage. The fifth was trapped inside, unconscious and unresponsive.

To say Maisie was drowning in guilt would be an understatement. She blamed herself for the accident. For logging off when she did. She wasn't watching out for them when they needed her. She should have monitored the vehicle better. It could have been prevented had she been more diligent. This was her fault. She would never forgive herself.

Clay knew the call would be a disaster. Weeping women made him uneasy. “I am the one that declared the mission complete. If you’re going to blame someone, blame me... No, do not fly out here. It could raise too many red flags and make the situation dangerous for us. Aisha already had to slip out of the country to avoid detection. Sit tight. I will call you when he wakes up… Jensen’s a fighter, Maise, he will pull through.”

It would be three days of crying and worrying herself sick before she would hear from her team again. Clay called with good news; Jensen was awake.

“He’s okay. Like the rest of us, he has some superficial cuts and deep bruising. He has a concussion, so they want to keep him a couple more days for observation. Then we're heading home.”

Maisie could breathe again. “Please, let me talk to him.”

“That wouldn't be a good idea right now. Jensen is too agitated and confused due to um…” Clay exhaled, scrubbing a hand down his face, “Well, the concussion seems to have caused post-traumatic amnesia.”

“Amnesia? You mean he can’t remember anything?”

“He remembers everything before 2010 without any problem, but everything after is a blur. He doesn't remember… you.”

“He doesn't know me anymore? I…That doesn’t… If this is a joke, it's not funny, Clay.” As mad as she would be, she prayed this was a bad prank of Jake’s. Hopelessly looking around, expecting him to be sneaking up on her to grab her.

“I wish it was. The doctors assure us it is temporary, but its duration is undetermined. Could be hours to months. Until then he needs to avoid stress and stimulation, let his head heal. We can calmly tell him things he forgot, but not try to force him to remember. It will come back on its own.”

Clay grimaced, “And it kills me to ask this, Maise, but can you pack up some of his things? It would be better if Jensen stays with his sister, just until he’s more acquainted with you. He would undoubtedly be more comfortable somewhere familiar with someone he’s known his whole life.”

There was no response. If it weren't for her breathing, Clay would have thought the line disconnected. “Maise?” he tried again. “I know it’s a lot, hun, but you guys will get through this. Jensen will be better in no time. I’ll keep you updated.”

Maisie’s voice cracked as she softly answered, “O-okay.”

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

Jake had a killer migraine. The more he tried to think, the worse it got. Waking up in a different year will do that to a person. He wished it was because of something cool, like time travel or being kidnapped by aliens that zapped his brain, but no, it was just a car accident. An occupational hazard that caused him to lose the last five years of his life.

It felt like being trapped in the twilight zone. Everything was different. His team did their best to fill him in on what he was missing. He had to be told of their set up and life as fugitives. Of Roque's betrayal and death. How they were cleared and given honorable discharges, but let the ties remain cut. They were their own unit now, with Clay still leading. It made Jake happy that hadn't changed, they still kicked ass together. He didn’t want to lose anyone else.

The part that intrigued him the most was being told he had a long time girlfriend, Maisie. Whom he called Angel. The group did the best they could telling him about the love of his life. His phone was damaged in the accident, so he couldn’t see a photo. The rest of the team weren’t picture taking people, with the exception of Pooch, who had a million of his son. Crazy, that his friend was now a father.

He learned how they met, about their home, and things they liked to do together, like mini golf and road trips to comic cons. That he loved everything about her, often claiming he secretly made her in a lab, because she couldn't be more perfect for him. And Maisie felt the same about him. He’d give her the honor of wearing his pirate hat when he was away. The one he claimed can only be worn with undies. The Losers hated that they knew that detail, but Jensen liked to overshare. How he still begged her to create a drone that can grab him and carry him through the air like Superman.

Jake listened intently and was excited to meet the awesome mystery woman they spoke about.

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

He had been back for less than twenty four hours and his head was killing him. He hadn’t recognized his own niece, she had grown so. Hannah jumped into his arms when he walked in the door, and he didn’t know her. Jake saw the heartbreak on her and his sister’s faces when she told him who she was. He felt like shit. The years he misplaced, this damn brain injury, was hurting the people he loved most.

Someone decided to throw Jensen a welcome home dinner at Clay’s. It certainly wasn’t Clay. All of the Losers would be there, including Maisie. They hoped this night would trigger his memories, or at least make him comfortable enough to move back home with her. They convinced themselves that seeing his girlfriend again would make everything click back into place.

Jake anxiously awaited her arrival. Practically bouncing off the walls with nervous energy. Clay had told him more than once to sit his ass down and relax, but he found it impossible.

Having gotten a babysitter for the night, Pooch arrived with his wife Jolene, a few cases of beer and bottles of wine.

Cougar was the next to arrive, he thought it better to not bring a date for once, Jensen didn't need actual strangers around to confuse him further.

Aisha walked in shortly after. Jake’s face lit up as he ran over, “Holy smokes, you guys weren't kidding. She is definitely mine.” He attempted to put his arm around her waist, but she was faster, catching and twisting the limb until it nearly broke.

Clay walked over to separate them. Sadly, this wasn’t the first time he had to rescue Jensen from her for doing something stupid. “Not yours, mine.” At Aisha’s glare he clarified, “When she wants to be that is. Jensen, this is Aisha. Hands to yourself or she is likely to shoot you again.”

“AGAIN?!”

“Did we not tell you that?”

Shit, she was late. Maisie had stopped to pick up dinner and it took longer than expected. This was not the way she wanted to see her Jakey again. She wore the superheroes vs supervillains jacket he bought for her. Each side ran up a sleeve and collided in battle in the back. Hoping that the sight of her in it will jog his memory. Nervously bouncing her legs, she checked her appearance in the car mirror. Not everyday the love of your life meets you for a second time.

Maisie quietly entered the apartment, her eyes instantly locked onto Jake. He was having a conversation with Pooch and Cougar, laughing and carefree. She noticed the cuts and bruises on his face and arms, knowing there were more under his clothes. It took all her strength not to run over and kiss each one.

She stood awkwardly by the door with the bags of food in her hands, waiting. Jake turned his head and looked right at her. Holding her breath, Maise searched for any spark of recognition in his eyes. He watched her quizzically, but gave no other reaction. Maybe she should have worn the droids shirt she had on when they first met.

Jake, seeing no one else moving to help, rose from his chair to assist. Giving an apologetic smile as he took the bags from her, “Sorry about that. Do we owe you anything?”

She blinked at him, “Huh?”

“I'm not sure who paid for the dinner,” he lifted the bags in question closer to eye level.

“Oh, I did. It was my turn.”

Jake stared blankly at her, before tilting his head, “So we know you?”

“Yes, I’m part of the team. I'm - I’m Maisie, your girlfriend.”

He threw his head back, “Ha! Very funny. Which one of them put you up to this?” Jake looked around the room for the culprit.

It felt like a snake winding around her heart. Why didn't he believe her? She looked at the group with worried eyes. This was getting uncomfortable for everyone. “No, it's not a joke. We’re together. We just had our fourth anniversary two months ago.”

“Oh,” Jake's eyebrows furrowed. He looked Maisie up and down, frowning. “Um, nice to meet ya. I guess.” Turning his back to her, he walked the food to the table. His splitting headache returned, thoughts swirling and unable to stick. He hated this.

Maisie didn't miss the pity in everyone’s eyes as she silently followed. She sniffed, trying to prevent the tears from falling. Her second first impression was turning out worse than the original.

During the meal, Jake sat in the chair next to her. His body tense, his smiles tight lipped and forced, unlike before. He avoided her gaze, scowling whenever Maisie tried to start a conversation. She made the mistake of touching his arm, and he recoiled. Her stomach was in knots, not understanding why he was reacting so harshly to her.

After everyone ate, Jake and the guys set up the poker table. He watched the women talking, growing bitter. As they brought over more drinks, he turned back to his friends, “This sucks. I deserve a hot babe like Aisha or Jolene. How'd I get stuck with the boring fat chick? Love of my life,” he scoffed, “I don't think so. Waste of my life maybe.”

Maisie froze in shock, her lip trembled. He couldn't have meant what he just said.

Pooch jumped to her defense, “Jensen what the hell, man? How could you say something like that? Amnesia or not, you’re never this rude and disrespectful. You may not remember right now, but Maisie is everything to you.”

“If you like her so much, why don't you date her,” he sneered.

”I have,” Clay retorted. “That’s how she came to work with us. Aisha and I were on a break and we dated. So I have first hand knowledge of how amazing she is.”

Jake’s voice filled with disdain, “Then why aren't you together? Perhaps it's because my first instincts about her were right. She can't be trusted and shouldn't be on this team.”

“Listen jackass, it’s because I decided to hire her. And you know I prefer my women a bit batshit crazy. She’s too sweet for me, but she’s perfect for you. You both have been smitten with each other from day one.”

Briefly turning to Maisie before refocusing on Clay, Jake shrugged, “I don't feel a damn thing when I look at her. Now that Aisha, she’s got parts of me stirring. Maybe I should steal her from you instead. Or have a different girl each night, like my man Cougar. Now that's the way to play it. Why tie myself to one woman, especially that one.”

There was an uproar from the group as Maisie sprinted to the bathroom, sobbing. Everyone began yelling at Jensen for his behavior. He fought back until his migraine got too severe. His vision blurred and he felt sick. Remembering his condition, the team felt guilty for the distress they caused. Cougar drove him back to his sister’s, while the women checked on Maisie.

Jolene rubbed Maisie’s back, trying to console her devastated friend. “You know his mouth is faster than his brain. He…”

“Talks out of his ass,” Aisha finished.

Jolene gave her a pointed look before continuing. “You two are amazing together. Just be patient, things will be better soon. This will all be like a bad dream before you know it.”

It was getting harder to breathe, the snake wound tighter and tighter. Maisie tried believing, but doubts and insecurities screamed in her head. And somehow the loudest was the one whispering, ‘You lost him and he's never coming back.’

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

Stephanie kept the team updated on Jake’s progress, or lack thereof. He spent the next two weeks hiding in her guestroom, sleeping or on his laptop, refusing to talk about what happened. In fact, he wasn’t speaking much to her or Hannah at all. Her brother’s silence was deeply concerning. To her memory, he’s never been quiet for more than ten minutes at a time. Hell, the man even talks in his sleep sometimes.

No one could imagine how hard this was for Maisie. They encouraged her to hold on just a little longer and her Jakey would be back to normal.

He doesn't mean it. You guys didn't hit it off the first time either. Keep trying.

You two need to spend more time together. You know he is crazy about you.

Sometimes brain injuries can lead to personality changes. This is temporary. The man loves you.

He will remember and come crawling to you with his tail between legs, begging for forgiveness.

He's not himself right now. He hasn't even been following how Hannah's soccer team is doing.

Give him another chance.

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

It was Tuesday night so the Losers went to their favorite hangout, Bar None, for half price drinks. Everyone was surprised when Jensen showed up in an Uber. Maisie did her best to greet him with warmth and a bright smile. For the next hour she tried talking with him, mentioning things from their life together and unsuccessfully keeping his eyes and attention on her.

Regrettably, he didn't give her the chance that she was trying to give him. Jake only looked at her with hatred in his eyes, making snide remarks. Her Jakey didn't have a mean bone in his body. He would get a bit aggravated with others when presented with something he forgot, but he was acting so cruelly toward Maisie. As if his subconscious was telling him she was his worst memory and protecting himself from her. It broke her heart more to think that may be true. She tried to hold her ground, but he was winning and his eyes were wandering.

Right now Jake was busy flirting with some redhead by the bar. The new him was surprisingly smooth. The woman responded to whatever he was saying with giggles and soft touches to his arm. After getting the chick’s number, he walked back to the booth like he won a trophy. He was met with a sea of disappointed and angry faces.

“What's wrong cougar, ya pissed I'm taking all your tail? The handsome cool laconic stranger act only goes so far pal. I'm on a roll tonight.”

Aisha’s fingers twitched, aching to grab her gun and shoot Jensen in the leg. “You’re pathetic. You are going to hate yourself when your memories are back. You’re royally fucking up here. The real Jake only has eyes for Maisie.”

Jake was sick of everyone telling him what he should feel. “Well, I'm not that Jake, I'm this Jake and this Jake doesn't want to go home with the ugly fat ass.” He looked at Maisie with disgust. Then raised his bottle in the redhead's direction, “I prefer to sample the riper fruit.”

The snake sunk its fangs in. Swallowing her hurt and humiliation, Maisie grabbed her purse and jacket, apologized to her teammates and headed out of the bar. Jake smiled at her retreat. ‘Good,’ he thought. His head felt better already.

Clay followed after his recruit, grabbing her arm before she got outside, “Don't go.”

“What's the point? Maisie screamed, her eyes watering. “You heard how he truly feels about me. We're clearly over.”

“He just doesn't remember.”

“And he doesn't want to. He doesn't want to know me. He wants nothing to do with me. What we had must have been some huge cosmic fluke. I have no other explanation for how he could stand to be with me.” She shook her head, arms falling limp at her sides.

“Maise.” Clay clasped her shoulder, unable to find the words to comfort her.

“Don't Worry, I'll get my own fat ass home.”

Cougar was furious. Jensen was directing his confusion and ire toward the person he needed the most. Maisie did not deserve this. As his friend got up to get another beer, Cougar stood in his way.

Jake sidestepped, only to be blocked again. “What’s your problem, Cougar?” he snapped.

“How dare you… You haven't shut up about that woman since you met. She gets you. Does all that geeky nerd shit with you. I’ve never seen two people so sickeningly in love. If you let her go, you are the dumbest fucking asshole on this planet.”

Jake laughed, “Wow! Tell me how you really feel.”

Cougar’s teeth clenched, "Go. After. Her."

Sparing a glance as Maisie slipped out the door, his lip curled. “I can do better.”

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

Clay was hesitant to allow Jensen on the new assignment in Corpus Christi. Jake begged, stating boredom and that his sister was treating him like a child. “I know I've been grouchy, but I'm fine, really. It's not like we’re even leaving the country.”

The Losers were already down a member, Aisha having business elsewhere that took precedence. Even with Maisie’s drones, three men on the ground wasn’t enough. Clay acquiesced on the condition that Jensen would alert the team if he got dizzy, his headache worsened or things became too much.

Jake was acting like his typical talkative self, but the topic was one Maisie couldn’t bear to hear. She did her best to be professional and not to let her team hear her cry.

“What a night boys. What... a… night. I’m surprised I can still move. Yasmin, that redhead from the bar, more like yaaas ma’am. I was gladly on my knees for that insatiable little sex kitten. And get this, we stopped to grab some beer and I saw a bag of skittles. Light bulb! I had the brilliant idea to trail the wet candy on her skin and lick off flavors and she was dowwwnnn for it. She…”

Maisie ripped out her earpiece, clutching her stomach. She was going to throw up. That was their secret thing. Jake loved saying he wanted to ‘taste the rainbow’ in public and it meaning something kinky.

The snake consumed her heart whole. Their love was gone. The shared laughs, the kisses, the cuddles, the sex, the conversations were gone. Their precious and too little time together now only memories. He wasn't her Jakey anymore.

Her Jake made her feel special and beautiful. He showed her everyday that he loved her dearly. He would never do this to her, never treat her like this. He’d kick anyone's ass that made her feel less than. He never let her doubt herself, always knew how to make her laugh. Her sweet motormouthed goofball was gone. She didn’t recognize the man that took his place.

What were you supposed to do when your whole world shattered in front of you?

Maisie could not continue working with them. It was too hard. Staying would surely kill her. Angrily wiping at her eyes to clear her blurred vision, she took a series of deep breaths. The monitors needed to be watched properly. She could at least do that. She could keep the Losers safe one last time.

Putting her comm back in, she knowingly subjected herself to hearing Jensen spill more details about his wild night with that woman. Maisie stayed online until they were back inside the safehouse.

Getting out of the van, Jensen tried to convince the team to go out. “We’ll grab a little surf and turf. Then find a nightclub to drink, dance and mingle. Come on guys, let’s get this party started.”

Everyone adamantly refused.

“Then let's stay for another day and go swimming at the beach. I'm sure there’s an army of bikini clad hotties just waiting to be wooed by us manly men.” His friends looked at him with disapproval. “What, I'm horny.”

Clay knew she was still there, he stayed on as long as she did. Not saying a word until, “I'm so sorry, Maise.”

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

Another Tuesday, another night at Bar None, only this time Maisie met the Losers to resign. She wanted to have a goodbye drink with her friends.

Pooch embraced her, “Don’t leave us. Don't leave him.” He was unaware that over his shoulder, she could see Jensen with his tongue down a brunette’s throat.

“I can't. I'm sorry, I can't.” She couldn’t stay and watch this again.

Aisha shook her head, she wasn’t a hugger and found the loss of her friend not something to celebrate.

“If you need a glowing recommendation, you know who to call.” Clay smiled, understanding she had to do what was best for her.

Maisie returned the gesture, “I already landed another job. I’ll be leaving the country in a few days.” She handed a business card to her former boss. “This is the real estate agent willing to sell the house. If you could give that to Jensen, or he can keep it. I don’t care.” She refused to cry again.

Cougar took Maisie’s hand, glaring at Jensen who was walking their way with his new conquest. He placed a lingering kiss on her hand, slipping her a small piece of paper in the process.

“I’m going to miss you Losers.” Maisie finished her beer and walked out of their lives.

Clay’s fists clenched, “Jensen, consider yourself suspended. Effective immediately.”

Jensen rolls his eyes, “Tsk, why? Because we lost a ton of dead weight. You should be thanking me.”

“Because you have proven the ‘new you’ cannot be trusted. You can return to duty when you're back to your old self… I need a team I can depend on and right now you are the farthest from that.”

“You’re serious?” Jensen dragged the brunette with him to find another booth. “Whatever, I don't need this shit.”

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

(3 weeks later)

Jake groaned, sleepily scooching closer to cuddle the warm body beside him. “Mmmm, my Angel.”

“Ooh baby, you ready for another round?”

Jumping at the sound of the unfamiliar voice, Jake scrambled out of the bed. He grabbed his gun and aimed it at the unknown woman. “Who the fuck are you? What did you do to my Angel?”

Her eyes grew as big as saucers, “I don't know who you're talking about, you goddamn psycho. We came here alone.”

Gun in hand, Jake began tearing through the apartment, searching for any evidence of Maisie.

“I'm calling the cops. Get out of my goddamn house,” she screamed, throwing his clothing at him.

Picking up his belongings, Jake yelled back, “I'm going, stop screaming.”

“Go fuck yourself, you fucking freak!”

Jake ran out holding his clothes, managing to get his boxers on as he fumbled down the stairs. Fishing his phone out of his pants, he dialed Maisie. Instead of his girlfriend’s voice, he heard ‘We’re sorry, the number you have dialed is no longer in service.’ 'That can't be right.'

Once outside, he put his glasses on and looked around, not recognizing a thing. 'Where the hell am I?' He redialed. "Come on, Angel, please." He received the same message.

A dark cloud of understanding enveloped him. 'Oh God. What the fuck did I do?' "You fucking idiot, what did you do?”

Jake trembled, “This can't be real. It's a nightmare. That's all it is.” He squeezed his eyes shut and began slapping his face. “Wake up you loser. Come on, wake up. WAKE THE FUCK UP!”

The sound of sirens approaching, and the sting of his cheeks proved a consciousness that he couldn’t accept. His eyes remained closed, “Please.”

The End

A/N: Thank you to everyone that has read. I appreciate you all. I’d love to know your thoughts.

*Bad klingon: HIja' = yes, bangwI'= my love, Ha' = let’s go 

Sequel : Love Me Again

[niffala]

As I Lay Dying

Pairing: Eddie Munson & Steve Harrington

Summary: Another day, another flower added to my grave, but I still love him just the same. 

Warnings: angst, pining, unrequited love, Hanahaki Disease, implied character death

A/N: Short and bittersweet. Written in 1st person. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated. 

Main Masterlist   

I wish I could tell him how much he meant to me. Confess what I held so close to my chest. How much I lived for his smile. How every time our eyes met my world stopped. How much it pained me that he always looked away first, shame marring his perfect face. How our almost kiss still made my lips tingle. How life seemed pointless without him around.

How I'd get down on my knees to beg him to come back. 

He was like the stars, to be adored, but never touched. Maybe if I'd only tried harder. If I kept reaching, raising my hands to the sky and hoping. Dreaming. Stretching myself into an impossible shape just for the chance to see love in his eyes when he looked back at me.

It was a foolish wish. Each time he looked away, I was reminded of it. Of a love I could never voice. A yearning so great it manifested into something terrible, tangible… deadly.

I remember the first petal. We were hanging out with friends when he sat next to me, hand brushing against my own. He commented on how cold I was. Then he covered my hand with his warmer one. Leaving it there for what felt like hours, but were probably minutes. My soul soared to the cosmos… until he let go. Dropping me as soon as he saw her walk in. 

Seeing them together made my heart tighten, my stomach twist and my lungs burn impossibly hot. I began coughing uncontrollably, excusing myself to the bathroom. Sucking water from the tap, trying to clear my airway. When the spasms stopped, I found a solitary petal in the sink. It had a deep purple hue, almost black in color. I didn't think much of it at the time, but I know now I should have. 

It happened again, then again, and again. Each time there were more petals, until I began throwing up whole flowers. Most of which I didn't have a name for. The colors though; Midnight blue, indigo, amethyst, burgundy, crimson, onyx. Always different, always dark. Rich and remarkable.

There was a name for this; Hanahaki Disease. A condition that took one of the worst feelings in the world and made it equally gentle and violent. Added beauty to the pain. Yes it will kill you, but look at the pretty flowers. Look what love creates even when it isn't returned. A miracle and a tragedy rolled into one. Yeah, I guess that summed up love pretty well.

I feel the hot trail of tears slide down my face as another wave of coughing hits, expelling a large flower into my hand. Even with blood staining it, I still find it beautiful. I treasured my destruction. Keeping each one so my room now overflowed with them.

I set down the blossom, resigned to my fate. I could try to save myself. Get to the hospital and have them rip it out by the roots. Suck out the poison. Erase this devastating love.

No!

I could never do that. I'd rather spend my last moments thinking about him. Letting this love choke the life out of me. My body would be found surrounded with the gorgeous blooms. Their perfume masking my decay. A heartbreakingly perfect garden. 

Would he finally see me?

Would he know it was for him? 

Would he care? 

Or would he pluck a flower from my broken chest and give it to her?

My breath stutters, struggling for just a few more minutes. Living for the images in my head. Holding onto and replaying the memories that created every soft lethal petal.

I hope to be buried with them all. They are evidence my love was real. That there was a reason for all of this and it was beautiful. 

More than anything, I hope he knows I never regretted a single moment. 

He was worth it.

The End

A/N: Thank you to everyone that has read. I appreciate you all. I’d love to know your thoughts.

[niffala]

I Quit (Pt. 3)

Warnings: Ransom being Ransom

A/N: Reader insert version found here. The Thrombeys’ opinions are NOT my own. Thoughts in italics. 18+ only due to smut and dubcon situations. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated.

Chapter 2  Series Masterlist     Main Masterlist

Chapter 3

It had been a few days since the Thrombey family dinner. Elizabeth welcomed the return to her mostly quiet routine. Grateful that those nights didn't usually happen more than once a month. The whole family seemed to have a flair for the dramatic and only interested in their own image. Hiding their misery behind luxury and fake smiles. How Harlan spawned such a bunch, she'd never know.

Elizabeth was sitting at the kitchen island, enjoying her drive-thru lunch. Because let's face it, she cooked for a living, and sometimes the greasy fast food hit the spot. An added bonus that it involved no work on her part. It's like they say, food tastes better when prepared by someone else. She found that all the more true on days she felt exhausted or moody. 

She nearly choked on her cheeseburger when an unknown figure appeared in her peripheral vision. The man strode past her without a glance, straight into the pantry. The sound of drawers opening and slamming shut seemed extra loud as the stranger rummaged around. An angry voice rang out, “Who moved the damn cookies?”

Who does this guy think he is destroying my kitchen?

Elizabeth firmly answered, “I did.”

The kitchen invader stepped out, seemingly surprised to see an unfamiliar face staring daggers at him. Although the apron clued him into her position here. “Where's the old broad?”

“I assume you mean my predecessor, she's retired. I'm Elizabeth. I’ve been working here for a few weeks now.” She pointed her chin behind the man, “The cookies are on the bottom left.”

Instead of returning to the pantry, he moved closer to her, “Elizabeth, that's a lovely name.”

She resisted the urge to roll her eyes, “I'll be sure to tell my mom you approve.” She recognized him now from the family portrait hanging in the parlor. “I assume you're Hugh.”

His face lit up, “Smart girl.” His eyes scanned her from head to foot, openly ogling her. “A pretty girl like you can call me Ransom, though.”

This time her eyes rolled without her permission. “Is that supposed to make me feel special?”

Ransom didn't answer. Instead he leaned over the island, snatching a french fry. He made a show of slowly bringing it to his mouth and eating it, daring her to say something. She wanted to slap it out of his greedy hand. Or maybe shove the whole lot down his throat. She wasn’t sure.

“Well, it's been fun, but I have to see my grandfather. I have an important matter to discuss with him.” He sucked the salt from his fingers. “Maybe I'll swing back after so we can chat. Get to know one another better.” He winked at her, walking out with a swagger and a smile.

What an ass.

Was he cute, absolutely. But Elizabeth was all too familiar with narcissistic jerkwads like him. Her school was full of them. She refused to let him get to her.

Fran had told her Ransom liked to show up whenever he felt like it, stir the pot, then slink off into the darkness after he had his fun. His family took the bait every time, so he delighted in causing them any amount of misery or aggravation he could. She also mentioned how he and his grandfather seemed to thrive in having a go at one another. Pissing the other off was their favorite pastime, but they loved each other dearly. The relationships in this family were beyond dysfunctional.

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

A few hours later, Ransom made his way back into the kitchen, intent on seducing Harlan's new chef. The old man put up a fight, but eventually caved in to his demands. He always did eventually. Too kind to let his first grandkid suffer through life and legal battles alone and without a new car. A few choice words, a few rounds of Go and he was putty in his hands. 

Now it was time to get something else he wanted. He paused, leaning against the doorframe, quietly observing the young chef while she chopped vegetables. She looked so innocent, so unbothered. Poor thing didn't know what she was in for.

It was quite sexy watching her work. Smiling to himself, Ransom closed in on her, wanting a better look. The shk shk shk of the blade hitting the cutting board didn't falter. It was a bit hypnotic, her expert hands made it look so easy. He wondered what else she could do with those hands. Promising himself he’d find out.

“You'd look better with your hair down.”

Elizabeth didn't bother looking up at the attractive nuisance. He was so close that whatever expensive cologne he wore filled her nostrils, distracting her. “That's not a good idea while I'm cooking.”

“So grouchy,” Ransom pouted. “You should be nice, smile more. I'm sure you have a beautiful smile.” She turned her head to glare at him. That was not the reaction he wanted. What would it take to get her to play? “You realize one word from me and my grandfather will fire you?”

“Do YOU realize I'm holding a big ass knife?” She waved the blade for emphasis. 

Ransom held his hands up in surrender, backing away dramatically. “Take it easy there, Killer. I was just being friendly. It wouldn't hurt ya to do the same. You might actually enjoy it.” The shit eating grin remained plastered on his face as he exited.

No, but it very well might kill you, asshole. Not wanting to lose her position, Elizabeth smartly chose to not speak that part out loud. Just in case.

A breath she didn’t realize she was holding released upon hearing the front door slam. He was gone. She got back to the task at hand, but would be lying if she said her mind didn’t start to wander.

Damn he smelled good.

Chapter 4

[niffala]

I Quit (Pt. 2)

Warnings: The Thrombeys being themselves

A/N: Reader insert version found here. The Thrombeys’ opinions are NOT my own. 18+ only due to smut and dubcon situations. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated.

Chapter 1 Series Masterlist     Main Masterlist

Chapter 2

The first two weeks of Elizabeth's employment went smoothly. Harlan did indeed have a taste for sweets. The rest of his palate she worked at learning, but he seemed happy with her efforts. When he didn't care for a dish, he would let her know and she gladly made him something else. Funny enough, the man would ask for tomato and mayo sandwiches, with just a touch of salt and pepper. Such simple requests from such an interesting man.

It was finally the day she was dreading, her first Sunday family dinner with the Thrombey clan. Fran had gossiped about the family with her while she began preparations. She explained who everyone was, their quirks, and entitlements. She had an asshole rating system that Elizabeth found amusing.

Fran found most of the family intolerable, except Harlan of course. “The top asshole, a number 10, has to be Harlan's grandson, Ransom. But don't call him that, ever. He makes the help call him by his first name, Hugh. He's handsome, for sure, but don't let his face fool you. He is a massive jerk and will charm you, use you up and spit you out like that.” She snapped her fingers and huffed.

“Luckily, he doesn't come to many of these dinners. Not that the rest of them are any easier to deal with. Seriously, they should have their own reality show so the world can see them snarl at each other like a pack of rabid hyenas. I suggest you steer clear of them when you can. These nights can get ROUGH.”

“Duly noted.”

Fran smiled before leaving to set the table. “Good luck tonight. And if you need a little mood stabilizer at the end of the insanity, just let me know. I got you girl.”

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

Elizabeth's anxiety increased with every new voice that echoed through the large home. She couldn't hear much of the conversations, but was confident Fran would fill her in if she missed anything juicy. So she continued cooking in peace.

Speak of the devil, the brunette rushed into the kitchen, “Top asshole and Harlan’s mother are m.i.a., but the rest are seated. Tell me the app is ready?” Fran already looked so done with the night.

”Right over there. Description card included.”

“Thank youuuu.” She took the appetizers to deliver to the table.

The family was just as she left them. Sitting proper with fake smiles plastered on their faces, while practically seething at one another.  Fran served the table with an equally forced grin.

Richard scoffed at the bowl. “What the hell is this?”

“Richard!” Linda chastised her husband.

Fran swiftly read from the card, “A roasted butternut and apple soup with ginger and coconut milk.”

Linda took a tentative sip and her eyebrows rose. “I see Rosalee has improved.”

Donna followed her lead, also approving of the soup and the improved quality.

Harlan spoke up, “I'm afraid Rosalee has retired. I've hired someone new.” He sent Fran to ask his new chef to come out, greet his family and serve dinner.

Elizabeth pushed the cart out to the dining area. Feeling like she was walking into shark infested waters wearing a wounded seal suit. All eyes were on her as she entered. Harlan introduced her and asked what she had for them.

“I have for you a herb crusted crown roast of pork with a side of carrots and parsnips in citrus butter.”

“Um, excuse me, hi.” Joni raised her hand, pointing to the offending entrée. “We can't eat that. My Meg and I are vegan. Do you expect me and my daughter to just munch on carrots all night?”

Elizabeth nodded, "I have been informed of your dietary restrictions and made you both something separate.“ She placed the extra meal in front of them. ”Quinoa cakes with a tomato-zucchini and chickpea relish, drizzled with a balsamic glaze. But if you would like the citrus carrots on the side I can get that for you as well."

“Dietary restrictions, my ass. It's not a restriction, it's a mental illness.” Walt began to rant, “You know how you can spot a vegan? Don't worry, they'll tell you. They'll never shut up about it. Those douchebags think they're better than everyone else. They look down on us meat eaters, keep trying to convert us. Well let me tell you, eating meat is my God given right. My right! Don't you realize you can't live without meat. Your brain will die. That's why you are all so miserable, you're slowly dying.”

Donna rubbed her husband's shoulder in approval. While Richard raised his glass in salute to Walt's bullshit. Linda pursed her lips, ignoring them and trying to have a chat with her father.

Joni was on the defense, “We are the healthiest we've ever been. It's good for the planet, the environment, which benefits everyone, need I remind you.” She ignored her brother-in-law's snickering. “Let's be real, veganism is the answer to this world's problems. It is. It's the only moral choice. It clears up your skin and makes you feel good inside and out. And we don't have to feel guilty about contributing to the exploitation and slaughter of innocent lives. Animals are just like us.”

“Just like us?” Walt interjected. “Oh really, should we have dad's dogs sitting at the table with us? I tell ya, if Meg was a boy, I'd be calling DCF because you'd be depriving him of nutrients he needs to grow strong and polluting his male DNA with soy.”

“You're the one with blood on your hands, Walt. All those poor cute animals you've killed….”

Richard scoffed, “You've only been,” he raised his fingers in air quotes, “vegan for a damn month.”

“Ya well, I saw the truth and I'm changing. You'll see it too or die with all those animal products clogging your arteries... Plus it's been two months. Thank you very much.”

“I will happily eat my steak and drink my milkshakes all the way to my grave.”

Joni rolled her eyes, “Uck, you are completely hopeless.”

Walt raised his hand to silence any reply from Richard. ���Don't bother. It's not worth fueling her delusions.”

That seemed to put an end to that argument. The rest of the meal went well. Although out of the whole family, only Harlan and Meg said 'thank you.' Not even the young boy spoke up. For being so rich and fancy, they certainly lacked manners.

Dessert was served without incident. Tiramisu and a mini vegan version for Joni and Meg. Harlan seemed to be in heaven, commenting on how rich and decadent it was.

After dinner was over, Elizabeth and Fran began clearing the table. Linda poked her head in, “Elizabeth, may I have a word with you?”

“Was there something wrong with your meal?”

“Oh no, no, dinner was lovely. However, I wanted to make sure you weren't making desserts like that for my dad all the time. He's getting up there in years and has to watch his cholesterol, his sugar intake, blood pressure, things of that nature. He can't be consuming food like you made tonight. He needs to eat healthier. I'd like to keep him around for a long time. I'm sure you can understand.”

“I fully understand, ma'am, but there is no need for concern. The food was chosen because this was a special occasion. It doesn't reflect his daily meals.” Elizabeth noticed Harlan a few feet behind his daughter. He winked at her before alerting her of his presence.

Linda clapped her hands, “Delightful. I'm so glad we have an understanding. I will make you a list of approved meals.” She smiled at her father before walking away.

Once Linda was out of earshot, Harlan leaned close to Elizabeth, “I'm not eating that pigeon food. You put her little list up on the message board in the kitchen and ignore it.”

Elizabeth thought she was safe. The family was dispersing out into the night. She turned on some music and began washing the dishes. Her hips swaying to the beat.

Joni snuck up behind her. “Oh I love this song.” She attempted to dance alongside Elizabeth, bumping their hips together. “Don't be shy. I could tell you recognize me. I get it allll the time now. You're correct, it's me. Owner, CEO, COO and CFO of FLAM.” She continued boasting about being a top influencer and her skin care products while Elizabeth stood there like a deer in the headlights.

An unwelcomed hand reached out to stroke her cheek, “Your skin looks so parched. You could really use a hydrating serum. My company offers the perfect product to help. It's an all organic algae blend that feels like the ocean on your face. So refreshing. And there's a vitamin C serum that will bring some life back to your overworked face.”

“Well let me tell you, FLAM is trending right now, it's going to be huge. You go ahead and follow me on twitter or instagram. I'm offering my first 100 followers a 15% off coupon. That will be available once I find the right graphic designer for my website. Those I interviewed so far just couldn't grasp my vision. This is a lifestyle I'm promoting. I have to trust they get my brand, ya know. But hold onto that coupon, it will be honored. So lovely to meet you, Evelyn.”

“Elizabeth,” she corrected.

“Sure.” Joni made her exit, blowing a kiss.

Fran entered and passed over the joint in her fingers. “It's like the fucking twilight zone isn't it.”

“You weren't kidding.”

The Thrombeys were the most insincere backstabbing piece of crap family she had the displeasure of meeting thus far. She wondered if any of them loved or were loyal to anything but money. Doubtful. Thank goodness she didn’t have to encounter them often.

These people are something else. I'm going to need therapy if I stay here too long.

Chapter 3 

[niffala]

Xanax & Things That go Bump in the Night (Pt. 1)

Pairing: Steve Harrington & Vampire!Eddie Munson

Summary: Something in the dark was calling out to him, that seemed fairly normal in Hawkins. The frightening part was how badly Steve wanted to answer. 

Warnings: angst, talks of therapy and medication and side effects, nightmares, overthinking, some signs of ptsd, scars, stalking, pining, drinking, dark thoughts, bad parenting but great friends

A/N: Takes place fall of ‘86. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated. 

Series Masterlist Main Masterlist     

Chapter 1

Steve was sick of bad days. It felt as if the last three years had been one never ending bad day. Ever since that other dimension started bleeding through into his own. Opening his eyes and forcing him to rebuild his identity from the ground up. He was a better person, but his life wasn’t sunshine and roses. Strange and dangerous was his new wheelhouse. He had no choice but to embrace it.

When the smoke over Hawkins cleared, things became eerily quiet. Repairs were made, most businesses reopened. Some residents returned to town, others moved on. Life went back to almost normal. The remaining caution tape and hazard signs were the only evidence that anything had been wrong.

It figures, out of all the fights he’s lost, the one he technically won did the most damage. Those damn demobats took their pound of flesh and left… something. Not the rabies that Robin was concerned about, but a poison that lingered deep in his bones, crawling through his veins. He didn't have a name for it, wouldn’t even call himself sick, but he could feel it all the same. There was something inside him that shouldn’t be.

His body healed from the physical damage, but it would live with him always. More scars added to his ever growing collection. Not too long ago he proudly had baby-butt skin. Smooth, pampered and flawless. He wasn't going to win any beauty contests now. Well, maybe if he wore a turtleneck the whole time. Robin tried to convince him it made him look rugged and mysterious. That the ladies would dig it. Dating seemed a waste of time, though. There were far more important things to worry about.

Days passed in a meaningless fog. Steve hadn't been feeling like himself. He used to be outside for hours; sunbathing, swimming, hanging out. Now he sought shade after thirty minutes, his head pounding and eyes blurry. His hair became limp and lifeless. People were starting to notice. He had to pull himself together. He couldn’t fall apart, they needed him. He refused to break.

So he lived with the pain, acting like he was okay. Lying.

Luckily there wasn't much sun indoors. He'd feel like too much of a douche wearing sunglasses inside now. The glare from the front window at Family Video got to him though. When the sun would hit just right to illuminate the floating dust, stealing the breath from his lungs. His eyes would find Robins and she knew. She always knew. She'd squeeze his hand tight and wait. It was all they could do, the next attack could be at any time.

He'd remind himself that he wasn't some cowardly bedwetter. He could handle whatever the next wave of the Upside Down brought. He would remain vigilant. They all had to. There were so few of them to fight this, while the rest of the town buried their heads in the sand. If they failed, it was goodbye Hawkins, goodbye everything.

Steve couldn't stop smiling the day Robin convinced their boss that staging all the cardboard cutouts in front of the window in new ways would pull in customers. “Think about it. It's great advertising while simultaneously making the store look new and interesting and crowded, just packed with people. Which would make more people come in wondering what the hullabaloo was.” Moving the cutouts once a week was added to their job description. Work became easier once more.

Unfortunately, he remained exhausted on a level he didn't have the words for. The headaches, increasing anxiety, and dark thoughts ran on repeat. Phantom teeth and claws raked down his body, ripping him open, a thick tail winding around his throat. He couldn’t shake it. The Upside Down decided it hadn't taken enough from him, it was coming for his mind.

He found ways to cope. He'd sneak his moms valium until she began counting the pills. Taking the lot with her on her travels, leaving Steve vulnerable to things his mind refused to forget. Days filled with dread, his heart pounding. Seeing his friends ripped apart every time he closed his eyes.

Received a beating for drinking his way through his grade-A-asshole father's liquor, before hauling himself to a psychiatrist. (Aka Robin and Dustin dragging him there under protest.) That in itself was a challenge. Too many things he couldn't talk about. All the shit he and his friends had been through, the things they've seen, the government cover ups. How his panic attacks were rooted in real fears and experiences. Couldn't admit the nightmares he woke up screaming from were memories. So many secrets he had to keep close to his chest to keep others safe.

His doctor put him on Xanax. It helped a bit, every nerve wasn't on edge every moment of the day anymore. But it also made him groggy, and his mouth felt full of cotton. His chances of dying in the bathroom greatly increased because he was in there so much. What an embarrassing way to go.

There was no stopping the demons in his sleep. His dreams consumed with monsters, spilt blood and the lives lost in defense of a town that would never know. One face in particular haunted him. The emotions he never got the chance to explore. Each morning he awoke violently, drenched in sweat, as he desperately fought his way back to reality. A part of him longing to remain unconscious to continue seeing the boy he failed to protect. Please, just five more minutes.

Steve can't escape the feeling of being watched at night. Of a presence lurking nearby. Shadows moved with a life of their own, reaching out for him. A thud on his window when he cut himself shaving. By the time he looked outside, it was gone. Whatever was stalking him was fast, he was always just missing it.

His doctor called it paranoia, but he knew better. Was he sensing Vecna like Will, or cursed like Max? The poison that took root in his body gave him goosebumps on the back of his neck, alerting him that something was out there. If not Vecna, then what, the bats? Did his infected blood recognize them? Was that a thing now? He swore he heard the flapping of leathery wings on numerous nights.

He'd been checking in with Hopper. There had been no reports of attacks or sightings. No activity at the gates or anywhere else. It has been peaceful, not even a storm had come through, somehow that seems like a bad thing. The Upside Down was simply biding its time to unleash something big and devastating. What if it was something worse than they've faced before? What if they lost this time?

Unfortunately for Steve, he can't convince himself it's his imagination, or a side effect of the medication. He knows of too many dangerous things that run rampant in the darkness. Hawkins was a breeding ground for evil. He wasn't foolish enough to run outside alone searching for trouble. The kids did a good enough job doing that, which is precisely why he hasn't spoken a word of this to them.

As much as he complains about being the babysitter, or as Robin calls him; mother hen, he misses the kids when they go home. When he's alone again, just like the countless days growing up. Only now his thoughts are twisted and broken, full of horrors and pain. Instead of girls, sports, popularity and how to win his parents approval.

After the earthquake, housing became surprisingly affordable, so he and Robin rented a small place. Somewhere they could both unapologetically be themselves. It was definitely one of the best decisions they've made.

Steve found himself alone again tonight. He felt... exposed. No Robin to ground him, no kids to distract him. Not that it stopped him from worrying about them. Robs wasn't home because she finally found the courage to ask Vickie on date. He was proud of her.

He thought about ways to pass the time. Maybe he should head to the store to restock their food. Steve learned the hard way that if left up to Robin, they'd end up with a cupboard full of Pop-Tarts, Doritos and Dr Pepper. It was up to him to make sure they had some variety in their diet. However, the sun had already set and he could tell It was close tonight.

Energy thrummed across Steve's flesh, his sides ached. The worst of his scars practically burned with the urge created by something pulling him outside. Not graceful like magnets, more like one of those poor baby cows. Forced to comply, lassoed, knocked off its feet, and dragged away. In truth, he wanted to walk out the door and into the arms of whatever awaited him. Longed for it. But he couldn't let that happen. He refuses to give in.

Steve takes another pill out of the bottle and swallows it dry, before getting into bed. He'll just go to sleep and ignore it. No sooner had his head hit the pillow, that the wind began calling out to him. Horrified that it knew his name, he covers his ears. It's not real. It's not real.

The haunting voice continued, echoing in his head. It was everywhere. The pull intensified. Steve shoved his head under his pillow, begging it to shut up. And it did. It all suddenly stopped.

He cautiously removed the pillow and sat up. It must have left. He breathed a sigh of relief. Thank - what the fuck was that?!?! Steve nearly fell out of bed hearing a series of loud banging. Something was knocking on his front door.

As he neared, the sound grew louder. It was pounding so hard, Steve was shocked the wood didn't splinter. Grabbing his baseball bat, he threw open the door, ready to strike. He was not prepared for what greeted him.

This wasn’t right, warning bells should be ringing, he should be running. A million questions swirled in his head, but nothing came out. Steve remained frozen in place, mouth hanging open, unable to tear his eyes away from the familiar stranger. This couldn't be real, could it?

The man leaned against the door frame. His toothy grin sent shivers up Steve's spine.

“You gonna invite me in, big boy?”

Chapter 2

[niffala]

Xanax & Things That go Bump in the Night Masterlist

Pairing: Steve Harrington & Vampire!Eddie Munson

Summary: Something in the dark was calling out to him, that seemed fairly normal in Hawkins. The frightening part was how badly Steve wanted to answer. 

Warnings: angst, fluff, mild smut, talks of therapy and medication and side effects, nightmares, overthinking, some signs of ptsd, scars, drinking, dark thoughts, stalking, pining, jealousy, bad parenting but great friends, blood drinking and other vampire stuff, bat eddie, love declarations

A/N: Takes place fall of ‘86. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated. 

Main Masterlist

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5 (end?)

[niffala]

Letters (Pt. 3)

Warnings: heartbreak, angst, arguments

A/N: Reader insert version found here. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated. 

Chapter 2 Series Masterlist Main Masterlist

Chapter 3

Steve didn’t dare return to Anne’s apartment, but he continued seeing her at the Sunrise. Her anger didn’t last, although he had to suffer through cold eggs a few times. Regardless of his food’s temperature, he left large tips. If she wouldn’t take it, he’d slip the money into her apron when she wasn’t looking. Sometimes she would try to sneakily return the cash, which only resulted in him leaving her an even bigger amount. 

Learning she was working late again, Steve decided to show up as the cafe was closing so he could make sure she got home okay. He watched her and another waitress tidy up the dining area. When the other woman left, Anne stayed behind. Curious, he slipped in, careful not to ruin the wet floor. Steve walked into the back, and spotted her at the sink, washing dishes. 

Anne looked over her shoulder when she heard footsteps, rolling her eyes when she saw him. “You're not supposed to be back here.” 

He offered a half smile at her attitude, “Where's the dishwasher?” 

“Jerry went home early for his wife’s birthday. I'm filling in.”

Thinking better of it, he withheld a lecture about working late by herself and not locking the front door. Instead, he removed his jacket, rolled up his sleeves and began to help wash the large pile of dishes. She didn’t argue, meaning she was dog-tired. Steve was glad he could be here for her, keep her safe and get her home quicker. He smirked each time she blew stray hair out of her face. Some things never change.

Anne froze as Steve reached over to tuck the offending strand behind her ear, his feather light touch causing goosebumps down her body, like so many times in the past. She closed her eyes and pinched her lips together, pushing the feeling away. Blinking, she passed him the next glass, “If only the newspapers could see their Captain America now, washing dishes like us common folk."

“I used to help you all the time.”

“Yeah, but that was the old Steve. The new you probably gets waited on hand and foot.”

“Eh, not exactly,” Steve disagreed. “Peggy has an important job that keeps her away from home a lot. So most of the cooking and cleaning is left to me.” There was too much truth there, so many hours he spent alone trying to find something to do with himself. He did his best to keep the house in tip top shape, ready for company at a moment's notice, the way Peggy liked it. “Don't let that bit of classified information get around. I have an image to uphold,” he half joked. Steve watched Anne from the corner of his eye, gauging her reaction. Her eyebrows furrowed, he couldn’t tell what was going on inside her head. 

“You never used to care what others thought, only what was right.” She turned to him, concerned. Had he really changed that much. 

He shrugged, “Things are different; I have duties, people need me. The pressure to be Captain America is there the moment I step out my front door. There's interviews, military events, upcoming recruiting tours,” his jaw hardened. “It's not enough that a war just ended, they want to prepare for the next one… autograph signings… laundromat openings.” Steve unsuccessfully tried to laugh it off. “Hell you witnessed it, I can’t even order coffee without someone shaking my hand or wanting me to sign something.”

Anne didn't see the humor in it. “When do you get to just be Steve?”

How was he supposed to answer that? “That’s a good question.” Steve tried to find the right response. He exhaled, sounding defeated and bitter, “Not often enough… Who’s Steve anyway? There's only room for Captain America, I have to play the part.” His fists clenched under the soapy water. “After everything I'm back to being a dancing monkey. Only in a better uniform.”

A mischievous smile grew on her face, “I kinda liked the tights.” She laughed when he countered by flicking water at her. The rest of the job was completed in comfortable silence. 

The air outside was considerably colder when they left the cafe. Due to the late hour, Steve offered her a ride. It wasn’t safe for her to travel alone. Anne refused, it was only a few blocks and not the first time she had to walk at this time of night. It quickly became apparent that he was not taking no for an answer, so she compromised, he would walk her home. 

He saw Anne shove her shivering hands deep in her pockets, trying to keep the chill off them. She had forgotten her gloves. Steve took her hands, but she pulled away. “You don’t have to be so difficult all the time.” He once more covered her cold hands with his, brought them up to his lips and blew to warm them.

Anne had thought there was no love left in her. Not for him nor anyone else. And yet the more he came around, the more she doubted. Feeling his familiar hot breath ghosting over her skin, she met his eyes and choked back a sob. She was fooling herself, she still loved him terribly.  

As he escorted her, a group of men passed by. Steve put his arm around her protectively. He'd always been the strongest man she ever knew. His new muscles did not make a lick of difference in his behavior. Anne allowed it for only a minute before shaking him off. It hurt too much to have him hold her so close. 

Steve sighed at the rejection. “Do you remember when we met?” He smiled when she nodded. “I was about twelve years old and saw you being hassled by some boys. Honestly you were holding your own before I showed up, but I had to help. Couldn't walk away. They beat me up and stole my shoes before backing off.” He never regretted intervening, it was the right thing to do. 

“And then you, ever the gentleman, walked me home. I felt so bad you were roughed up. I couldn't afford to buy you new shoes, so I made you new socks, seeing as how yours were ruined from taking me home. I should have made you two.” 

“Hey, those socks kept me warm for a long time.” They became his favorite piece of clothing. He was completely taken with the girl with messy hair and fire in her eyes. The one who looked at him differently. His mom encouraged him for years to ask her out, but he kept finding excuses not to. He wished she was around to see him get the girl he pined after for so long. He wished she was there to help him through his first real heartbreak at Anne’s hands. 

She moved in closer, soaking up the heat emanating from him. “You were my hero, you deserved more.”

“I was no hero back then. Just a dumb kid, stunted and pathetic. No one saw me.” 

“I did… So did Bucky and your mom.” It baffled her that he thought that way. Did he not feel loved by them? He was such a wonderful person, he had to know how cherished he was. 

Steve scoffed, “Well they’re gone now. And you and I…” He looked away, “Well that didn't work out, did it.” Shit, he was getting hot under the collar. Breathing deeply he continued forward, trying to calm down.

No other words were spoken until they reached her apartment building. A question Anne had wanted to ask him since his reappearance, “What happened over there, with Bucky? His sister refused to believe he was really gone because there wasn’t a body. His family buried an empty coffin.” She stopped before ‘and you weren't there’ left her mouth.

His face hardened, "He fell…” Steve’s voice became monotone, “I was ordered not to attempt recovery. It would have been a waste of manpower for a single soldier." Peggy convinced him it was a pointless waste of time and resources. That crying over the loss was an insult to his friend's memory. He doesn’t say that watching Bucky fall away from him, terrified and screaming, was the worst moment of his life. He won’t tell her how much he wished it was him instead.

Anne couldn’t believe her ears. “That's not like you at all. It's not just a soldier, it's Bucky. He deserved to come home, have a proper burial. At least to give his family some closure. How could they just decide he wasnt worth finding?” 

Steve stepped away from her, squaring his shoulders. She meant how could he decide that. “You wouldn't understand, you weren't there. It's my fault he's dead, is that what you want to hear? I put him there, I put him in danger and I couldn't protect him.” His anger morphed into sorrow as he spoke. His voice sounded tiny and broken, “I couldn't reach him. I couldn’t… All this strength and I couldn't hold onto him. You don't think I wanted to go back…. I didn’t want to leave him there.” 

Her eyes were glassy as she reached out for him, trying to provide comfort. “Steve, I'm sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you. I wasn't accusing you of anything, I swear. I know how much Bucky meant to you. I know you would have brought him home if you could. I’m sorry, I'm so sorry.” She rubbed his arm, waiting for a sign it was alright to hug him. Anne regretted bringing it up, she had no idea that’s what happened and seeing Steve this distressed was like a stab to her own heart. “If you want to come upstairs and talk, I promise I'll listen? 

He sniffed and took another step away. “Don't make me any promises. We both know you wont keep them.”

Anne’s empathy vanished in a flash. “I wont keep them? You’re one to talk. What about your promises to me? Our life after the war. You lied, you didn’t come back to me, you came back with her.” She sneered at him, shaking her head in disgust. “What a dream you're living now. Married to the love of your life, America's couple, your faces gracing every newspaper. The absolute best woman by your side so you don't have to be embarrassed by me. As you said, Captain America deserves the best and that's never going to be me.”

“Don't put words in my mouth.”

“I'm not, that was exactly what you wrote in your letter. Go back to your perfect wife and your perfect home and your perfect stinkin’ life and leave me alone! Stop torturing me by acting like you still care. I can't be around you without feeling like my heart is being crushed inside my chest. I don't need to be rescued. I don't need Captain America. JUST LEAVE!”

Steve had his own venom to spit, “If this is how you acted with Frederick, I can understand why he broke it off with you.”

She threw her hands up, “What are you even saying? I don't know anyone by that name. There's never been anyone but you. You must be thinking of one of your other girlfriends. Who knows how many you had while away.”

“Please, you know I'm not like that. There was only you until Peggy.”

Anne nodded, eyebrows raised, “Yeah… Peggy. Always Peggy. Goodnight, Captain.” She turned and entered the building, not sparing him a second glance.

Steve could tell something was wrong. Their stories were not matching. He wanted to follow her and sort it out, but decided against it. Too hurt and angry to have the conversation they desperately needed. They couldn’t hear each other through their grief. Both mourning the loss of Bucky and the loss of each other. Of the could have beens and the should have beens. Of the life they were meant to have together. The life he now shared with someone else.

Chapter 4

A/N: Originally there were 2 letters in every chapter of this fic. However, I decided to ditch the romantic letters in the middle and keep only the letters in the first and last chapters. I think their once sweet and caring relationship is easy enough to imagine without having to read their love letters.

[niffala]

Letters (Pt. 5)

Warnings: heartbreak, angst, arguments, threats, mentions of conception

A/N: Reader insert version found here. No stealing, no reposts, no translations, no feeding to AIs. Comments, reblogs and likes are always welcome and appreciated. 

Chapter 4 Series Masterlist Main Masterlist

Chapter 5

A storm rolled in as Steve drove, it didn’t slow him down. Not wanting to risk waking the landlord, he scaled the slippery firescape with ease. A sudden deafening roll of thunder overhead made him flinch. Wiping the cold rain from his eyes, he forced open the window and crawled in before the weather worsened. 

Not a moment after he slid the window closed, he was beaten with a broom. He called out to his assailant, “Anne... Anne, stop, it's Steve.”

Anne stepped back, panting, “I thought you were a burglar.” Gritting her teeth, she whacked him again. “It’s two a.m., what the hell are you doing here? You scared me half to death.”

Steve hung his head, “I’m sorry… for right now and the other night. There’s so damn much I need to apologize for.” He ran his hand through his wet mane, frustrated with himself and the situation he found himself in. “Anne, I know I have no right to be here, I know you don't care about me anymore, but there are things I need to tell you. I...” 

“Don’t be stupid,” she interrupted, “of course I still care about you.” Anne set the broom aside, as well as a kitchen knife she had hidden on her, before turning on the light. Noticing the small puddle forming beneath his feet, she huffed, “You're soaking wet, are you trying to catch your death?” 

She led him into the bathroom and grabbed a towel. Got him cleaned up, wrapped him in a blanket on the couch with a cup of hot tea in his belly. He let her fuss over him the way she used to, even though he wasn't at risk of pneumonia anymore. 

Anne could see he was not all right. As if him showing up in the middle of the night in this weather wasn't proof enough of that. She sat down next to him and gently grasped his hand. “Tell me what’s wrong, Steve.”

He felt a sudden lump in his throat at her words, something broke open inside him. It cracked and splintered until he couldn't hold it together anymore. “I’m tired.” Steve interlaced their fingers, rubbing his thumb over her skin, finding solace in her touch. “I try to pretend that everything is normal, but the truth is, I'm so far from okay, I don't even know what that feels like anymore. This heavy burden of being Captain America; the world depends on me, looks up to me, I’m forced to smile when I'm falling apart on the inside... I'm drowning, but I'm nobody without the shield.”

“That’s not true.” 

He turned to look at her worried face, the first tear sliding down his own. “I don’t know how to put it down.” 

Without hesitation, Anne wrapped her arms around him as he quietly wept. She rested her head on his broad chest and embraced him with all she had, losing herself in the steady rise and fall. No stuttering breaths, no wheezing. Just the unchanging thumping of his heart. It made her cry; for him, for herself, for the life they would never get to have together. Real love, like grief, never goes away. It fades, it changes, but it's never gone.

The rain ended just as quickly as it began. Despite the chilly temperature, Anne opened the window just enough to let the smell in. Steve knew it was her favorite, it always reminded him of her. Being here with her gave him more sense of peace and belonging than he'd felt in years. Steve knew he was still hopelessly in love with her. He knew it the moment he walked into the cafe that first day. He wasn’t afraid to admit that now.

Steve spotted an open box on the floor next to him filled with photographs. Noticing what caught his attention, Anne told him he could take a look. He grabbed a handful and flipped through them as she sat back down. There were pictures of Anne’s family, a few of him and her, Bucky and him, all three of them, him and his mom. He paused at one of the photos of himself. 

Anne smiled, “You were always so handsome. Stole my breath with your smile and your sweetness. It’s what gave me the stupid amount of courage to ask you to dance that night.” Anne took the picture from his hand, admiring it. “You were the most beautiful person I ever met.”

“Only you would have thought that back then.”

“You were my Stevie.” She placed a finger on his head, “I loved you here,” her hand moved over his heart, “and here.” I never cared about anything else. Honestly, I hated when you became Captain America and everybody wanted a piece of you. I preferred when you were just mine,” Anne smirked, “and Bucky’s, naturally. We both loved your smart, brave, stubborn-headed self. You meant the world to us… You still do to me,” she admitted, looking away. Too afraid to see if her words affected him, more so if they didn’t.

Steve’s breath hitched, he didn’t know what to say. So he looked down at the final photograph in his hand, finding the faces of the three people he loved the most and lost staring back at him. 

They were at The Sunrise; his mom before she got sick, sitting with Bucky, and himself next to Anne. She had just started working there. He and Bucky had scrimped and saved to be able to buy his mother lunch for her birthday. It felt like a lifetime ago. His mom insisted Anne sit in the booth with them for the picture, TJ was more than happy to take it. “I remember this. It was a good day.”

Anne turned to see what he meant, grinning before she could stop herself. “It would have been better if Bucky hadn’t shot spitballs at me.”

“He was just messing around. Anything to get a pretty girl's attention.” Steve smiled at Anne, she was still beautiful, even half asleep in her nightclothes. 

Her eyes twinkled with mirth, “I know, that's why I mixed a bunch of salt in his Coca-Cola.” They both cracked up, remembering Bucky’s face when he took a sip and spit it all over the table. “It was worth it, even though I had to clean it up.” 

“It made my Ma laugh too, she told him he deserved it… You know, I was convinced you liked Bucky back then.”

Anne’s smile faltered, “No, it was always you.” 

Steve choked up when she told him to keep it. He nodded, pocketed the photograph and thanked her. He placed the rest of the photos back into the box, surprised to find a pile of his old napkins. He never knew she kept them, let alone held onto them all this time. “I can't believe you saved all these.”

“I couldn’t throw something out that you made me.”

He watched her to gauge her reaction, hoping for a favorable one. “I'm still in love with you.”

She looked at him as if he struck her, “You can't say that to me, it's not fair.”

Steve cupped her face, “Annie.” He leaned in, nose softly bumping hers.

Her heart beat faster, voice lowered to a whisper, “What are you doing?”

 “Something stupid.” He tilted his head to kiss her. 

Anne wanted to give in, but as his lips barely brushed hers she blurted out, “Your wife.” She pulled back. “You’re married, this is wrong. You have a wife.”

“It was supposed to be you.” Steve lowered his hands and his head, “I don’t know what's right anymore.”

“I love you, Steve, more than I can ever say. You've meant more to me than anyone in my entire life, but we can't do this. You made your choices and have to live with them. It doesn't matter how we feel, it can't be undone. It’s too late for us.” Anne got up and shut the window.

She walked out of the room to get ready for work, shaking her head at herself. He wasn't her Stevie, he was someone else's husband, the world's Captain America. She couldn't keep him. It was selfish to try. 

She found happiness through her hardships before, she'd get there again. But Anne needed some distance from Steve. He needed to come around less and stop showing up at her home. Things couldn’t be how they were before the war, they moved on. One day she would have to give him up completely, but it didn’t have to be today. Having him here was just as painful as not, so she’d rather have him, if only temporarily. 

Steve dug through the box, as expected, his letters were in there too. He pulled out the final one, reading over the words that were not his own. His jaw hardened, how could Peggy be so cruel?

Anne returned in her uniform, pausing when she saw what was in his hand. Her frown didn’t escape Steve’s notice. She deserved the entire truth, no matter how painful it was for him to tell her. “When things were bleak, your letters got me through it. I missed them when they stopped.”

“Me too.”

With a sorrowful smile he handed her the letter, “You should throw out this last one though. I didn't write it.”

She took the paper from him, bewildered. “I’m not sure I understand. Then who did?”

He felt ashamed, the wedding ring on his finger growing heavy. “Someone that had everything to gain from seeing us part.”

“It's your handwriting, who could have…?” The answer was all over his face. “Oh… Well that makes all the sense in the world doesn't it. Guess she's not so perfect after all.”

“She's not who I thought she was.” Taking a deep breath, Steve did his best to explain the letters they both received and the circumstances surrounding them. Unable to defend his actions, he apologized repeatedly. Sorry for believing the lie, for jumping immediately to someone else, for barging in on her life and rubbing her nose in his false happiness. He crossed lines and hurt her and he was remorseful.

Torn throughout his speech, she settled on anger. What did he expect her to do when he did nothing? Did he want her to simply fall back in his arms, let him carry her into the bedroom to make love and everything would magically be fixed. Looking into his eyes, it seemed that's exactly what he thought. 

“You should have known me better. A few written words was all it took for you to fall head over heels for her. One lie and your life became all about Peggy, forgetting me entirely. I waited for you.” Anne felt something sharp in her throat, a hard swallowed acceptance. “I don't know what you want from me, Steve, but I can't give it to you.”

Seeing the flame in her eyes dull terrified him. She was giving up on him. Fate was cruel, and he supposed he had been as well. He never meant to hurt her, not like this. He let Peggy tear them apart and he wasn’t sure it could be fixed. But oh how he’d try if she let him. “I… I know I'm asking too much, but can I hold you a little while longer? Please, I'm not ready to leave yet.” 

Anne agreed, just a little bit longer. Enough to pretend her heart wasn't breaking all over again. She clung tightly to him, wanting to feel like Stevie & Annie again, if only for a bittersweet moment.

Steve wrapped his arms around her and kissed the crown of her head, wishing everything was different. Her scent chased away the phantom odors, no sharp burning, no rust, just her. As the clock ticked by, he prayed for a few more minutes. Please, just a few more. “I'm never going to feel about anyone the way I do about you.” 

He did not resist when she pulled away. Hated having to let go when he wanted to hold on tighter. Steve agreed to her request to give her space, but was determined to still be there for her, even if she kept him at arm's length. And even though they couldn’t be together, she’d always be his Annie.

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

Peggy was not a simpleminded woman, she saw Steve sneak out in the dead of night. Phoning an associate, twelve hours later she got the answer to her husband’s whereabouts. The bastard had been playing house with his old flame. He left her bed to warm someone else’s, and according to the information in front of her, it had been going on for some time now. 

She would not stand for this embarrassment, Steve needed to remember his place. He was no longer the pitiful thing he was before the serum. So sickly that if he were a pet, they would have drowned him. Captain America was the embodiment of perfection, and belonged to her. Clearly his mind had forgotten that and slipped into bad habits. She would put an end to it. 

After verifying Steve’s location well outside the vicinity, Peggy arrived at his paramour’s residence. She refused to be made a fool of by some low class floozy. After successfully charming the landlord, she made her way up to her destination. Three knocks and she came face to face with the woman occupying her husband’s time. 

Anne didn’t know what she expected when she answered the door, but it wasn’t Mrs. Captain America. Nothing good could come out of Steve’s wife at her apartment. “Can I help you?” She ignored the dread that prickled up her spine. 

“I see by the look on your face, that you know who I am.” Peggy smiled when the other woman nodded. “I would like to have a chat, woman to woman.”

She noticed how Peggy looked at her as if she was something she stepped in. Anne’s anger simmered below the surface, she’d seize this opportunity to confront her uninvited guest. This spiteful, entitled, British lunatic doesn’t get to screw with her life and not expect her to fight back. “Please come in.” 

Peggy sat down at the small table and asked for a cup of tea. While the other woman obliged, she looked around the tiny home with distaste, humming to herself, “Not very cohesive is it.”  

Anne returned to the table carrying the requested beverage, mentally preparing herself to have it out with this woman. As she set the tea tray down, her blood froze. Peggy was right where she left her, poised and proper, not a hair out of place, like she jumped out of a magazine… if not for the pistol casually sitting on the table.

The corner of Peggy’s mouth turned up at the clear fright in the other woman's eyes over the small firearm. “Milk and two sugars, please.” 

Anne surprised herself when her voice didn’t shake, “I do not have any milk.” 

Her red lips pursed, “I suppose this will have to do then.” Peggy flashed a fake smile, taking her cup and placing it in front of her. She had no intention of imbibing whichever subpar tea was being served. “I’ll get straight to the point. I’m here to discuss my husband spending so much time with you, instead of where he belongs.”

Anne couldn’t take her eyes off the weapon, sure she was about to breathe her last. “Steve has been a good friend to me. He’s been trying to help me out.”

“I’m sure he has. However, I must insist that whatever fun you two have been having come to an end. He should be at home with me, we are trying for a baby after all.” Peggy sighed, looking Anne up and down with contempt, “I admit, I've been working a bit much as of late, yet I do not see the appeal. You must be very easy for him to have turned to you.” She smoothed down an nonexistent wrinkle in her skirt, then turned her dark gaze back to the other woman. “He is mine. He will never be yours. I'm all he needs. I am his love, his best friend, his home, his safety, his WIFE. You are just a hole he uses to pass the time.” 

Shocked by the language and accusation, Anne stuttered, “No we ha- haven't. I w-wouldn’t…”

Peggy held up her hand, “I do not wish to hear your excuses. Imagine if a reporter caught wind of your inappropriate relationship, his reputation would be tarnished, and you, deary, would be ruined… You will stop seeing my husband immediately lest the consequences be swift and severe.” She placed her perfectly polished fingers on the gun, angling it toward Anne. “Do we have an understanding?”

Anne could only nod, terrified of the unspoken threat. She’d die, and be forever shamed as Captain America’s mistress. As the woman that came between America's perfect couple. The homewrecker, the whore. If she managed to survive, she’d lose her job and her home. Her family would disown her. Even her friends would stop talking to her after such a scandal. She’d have nothing. Living on the street or dead in a box. 

“Marvelous.” Peggy stood, placing the pistol back in her purse. “Oh, and I wouldn't mention a word of this friendly conversation to Steve. Stress isn't good for conception.” She took one last look at Anne, shaking her head. “You really are a weak thing. I do not see the appeal at all.” She closed the apartment door behind her and waited. Smiling at the sound of Anne sobbing, she left, satisfied her objective was completed.

Chapter 6 (Coming soon)