#not looking forward to doing trig after this..

[tinyperson00]

drawing in math class ✨

Finished work early and was also bored of just sitting there so I decided to draw Akira since I haven't given her much lately lol

and definitely not also because shes my only OC I actually memorized the design 💀

I have basically come up with my own Chibi style now as well and Im obsessed with drawing characters that way

[thetomorrowshow]

febuwhump 17 - power instability

EMPIRES SUPERPOWERS AU IS BACK

title: vision, visage, gentile, genteel

fandom: empires smp

this is the first chapter of the esh au sequel. it's back babey

~

It began, as many things do, with a bang.

Nobody knew what it meant. There were people outside, getting ready to head to work, who jumped and cursed and spun around. The noise was considered by some, likely, a firework, or a gunshot, or perhaps some new super on the scene. Perhaps a car malfunctioning, or a tire popping. Whatever it was, it was none of most people's concern, and after a moment of fright, those unsuspecting souls continued on with their days and forgot that it had even happened.

When looked back on, there was no way to know that it was the beginning of the end.

The end of Major, Primary Protector of Empires City.

Or, not the end, exactly.

But with Xornoth dead, and most other villains minor enough to be more of a nuisance than anything (and some, like Mythics, often more friendly with the heroes than with the villains), the city had settled into complacency. The defeat of Xornoth by three very powerful heroes, Major, the Mad King, and the Ocean Queen—and the disappearance of another dangerous super, Solidarity—had led many to believe that the city was going to be safe for quite some time going forward. After all, those three heroes (and the other heroes of the city, such as the Wizard Gem and Pearl) had no plans to leave, and any challengers of their authority were quickly dispatched.

And the end started with a bang.

Or, more precisely, the end started in a small house on a quiet street on the East Side of Empires City, early in the morning, as the once-feared Solidarity whistled a little tune while scrambling eggs, and the Primary Protector of the city stretched his muscles and smiled fondly at his partner.

-

"Eggs are done!" Jimmy, once known as Solidarity, declares as he clicks off the stove.

Scott, also known as Major, Primary Protector of Empires City, finishes the final stretch of his routine before groaning his way to his feet and padding into the kitchen.

"I'm getting too old for this," grumbles Scott, who isn't even thirty, as he pulls a couple of plates out of the cabinet. "Why'd I choose to be a superhero? I could've been an architect, Jimmy. Instead of getting ready to save the world, I could be designing buildings to replace the ones that Mythics destroys."

"Yeah, right," Jimmy scoffs, scooping some eggs onto the plates. "Gays can't do math, there's no way you would've been able to design buildings."

"I literally passed my senior trig class with a C, thank you very much, and Cs get degrees."

Jimmy laughs, handing Scott the plates. Scott sets them down on the counter beside the toaster, into which he slots four pieces of toast.

It's domestic and warm in the kitchen—the stove has just been clicked off, still radiating a gentle heat, which is nice when there's ice in the air and snow on the ground.

Not that Scott minds either of those things. Despite his complaints, he's eager to patrol today. He always feels more energetic when surrounded by the make of his power. And maybe he feels a bit more . . . in control, he supposes. Bigger. More powerful. Almost like he can command the skies—a thought best left for his dreams, far beyond the reach of his power as it is.

It’s a lovely day. Crisp and cold, warm and homey, and Scott can’t fight a smile as he moves toward the table and clicks on the overhead light.

"Nope—" Jimmy cries out behind him, and Scott turns just in time to see the oven window shatter, pieces of tinted glass scattering across the kitchen tiles.

"Sorry, sorry, burned my finger on the stove," Jimmy explains, holding said finger in his other hand. "Took me by surprise, sorry."

"Hand under cold water," Scott instructs, pointing to the sink. As Jimmy hurries over, he continues, "and what's another oven window? Don't cut yourself on the glass, honey, let me get you your shoes—"

Scott heads back into the living room, kicking his yoga mat aside, to find Jimmy's velcro tennis shoes sticking out from under the couch. They have a tray for shoes by the front door, but Jimmy, for some reason, just leaves his shoes strewn about the living room carpet.

"Think the landlord is going to get concerned? This is, like, the fifth oven door we need replaced," Jimmy calls from the kitchen. Scott laughs.

"Well, if you'd stop burning yourself, we wouldn't need five oven doors, would we?"

"At least one of those times I cut my finger, so I'm not sure that the burning is the problem," Jimmy jokes back. "And remember when we had to replace the whole oven because you froze it and it broke? That's arguably worse."

"We really should have been kicked out by now," Scott comments as he reenters the kitchen, shoes in hand.

"Good thing you're rich."

"Good thing you're a gold digger."

The toast pops at the exact same time as Jimmy turns off the sink. Scott hands him his shoes, then steps around him to wash his hands before getting the toast.

"Have you got work today?" Scott asks. Jimmy shakes his head.

"Nah, it's still not doing well," he says. "Jerry has us working fewer hours, trying to make ends meet. He's hoping for a bit of a boom in business with this weather."

"I guess we'll see," Scott says. He sets the plates down on the table with the butter, one right in front of where Jimmy is sitting in his chair, strapping on his shoes, and the other in front of the chair beside it. He sits there, scraping a bit of butter across his toast before tossing back his antidepressants with a bit of water.

Jimmy does the same when he's done with his shoes, then spreads jam onto his toast before loading it up with eggs and shoving it into his mouth. Scott makes a pointed expression of disgust before resolutely ignoring the sin before him.

He's got an hour before his patrol shift properly begins, so that's probably enough time to sweep up the kitchen or wash the dishes. Not that either of those activities take him an hour to complete, but who can blame him for wanting to head out early? He's just itching to get out in the cold, in what is literally his element. It's the first snow of the season, and he's expected to stay inside?

Jimmy, as always, notices. He lays his free hand on Scott's knee (his touch always so gentle) and gives him a smile somehow made cuter by the crumbs on his lips. "You can head out early, if you want. I can—"

BANG!

The whole house rattles. Jimmy's hand tightens on Scott's knee, and for a second Scott feels a hum of power thrum through the air—more intense in his partner than in anyone else that he's ever known—before there's a high-pitched whining and all the lights in the house shut down, the refrigerator's hum whirring to a stop.

They sit there, for a moment, in silence, Jimmy's hand still on Scott's knee, the aftershocks of his power still pulsing from him.

Scott forgets, sometimes, that Jimmy has such magnitudes of power, that he isn't just shattered oven doors and broken dishes. That without even lifting a finger, Jimmy could collapse a building or take the life right out of a person's body.

Then he'll get a wake-up call like this, a reminder that Scott isn't the only (or even the most) dangerous person in the house.

Scott glances over to the microwave to check—never mind, the microwave is dead, no green numbers lit up to tell the time.

The time isn't really important, though.

What on earth could've caused that sound?

Scott's first thought is a gunshot, and he knows Jimmy's is too, by the apprehensive shine of fear in his eyes that Scott can see even through the darkness of their house. A gunshot that loud would have to have come from nearby, of course. . . .

Quickly, quietly, Scott steals to his feet and creeps to the front window in the living room, peering out carefully without disturbing the blinds.

Nothing. No signs of trouble, no screams, no bodies in the street. Just various neighbors poking their heads out their doors, looking around and calling greetings to each other.

Through the window (Scott had cracked it open while stretching to let in the frosty breeze), Scott hears one of them faintly call.

"Did you lot lose power, too?"

Scott grimaces. Jimmy's not going to like that. Sure, Scott can keep their fridge and freezer going until the power gets back on, and Jimmy can bundle up until then, but everyone else is without electricity while their freezers melt and there's nothing they can do about it. As far as he can tell, none of the houses along the street have power—and if the whole street is down, that means the neighborhood is too.

Unfortunately, it is Jimmy's fault, and he's going to want to do what he can to fix it.

Which, as far as Scott can tell, is nothing. So maybe he can just not tell him about it. Maybe he won't notice that the entire grid is out.

"All clear," Scott calls back to the dining room. "Any idea what that was?"

Silence from the dining room. After a moment, Jimmy calls, voice shaking,

"Sorry. Um, no."

Scott frowns. "Jimmy? You okay?"

Another moment of silence, followed by a shuddering sigh. "Yeah," Jimmy says unconvincingly. "I'm good."

Scott pulls the window shut, blinds clanking against the glass, then returns to the dining table.

Jimmy's still sitting where he left him, hands clenched around his trouser legs. He's staring resolutely at a spot on the table, eyes just the slightest bit wet.

"Jimmy? Baby?" Scott tries, sitting down beside him and taking his hand. Jimmy looks over at him, face pale, eyes resolute.

"I'm good," Jimmy says again, squeezing his hand. "Thank you."

He's not good, that's easy to see. But he's okay, and some days, that's all Scott can ask for.

It's been over two years since Xornoth was killed, and Jimmy will never be entirely better. He'll likely always need his hip brace or cane, he'll always need his medication, he'll always have trauma responses. But Scott isn't ever going to judge him for any of it.

That's who Jimmy is. And Scott loves him for it.

And as he sits there, holding Jimmy's left hand, he finds his mind wandering to where it so often does as he gazes at the fourth finger on Jimmy's hand.

Scott doesn't even have a ring yet, so he pushes the thought out of his mind with a little reluctance. First he has to discuss the idea of marriage with Jimmy, then he has to follow up with Lizzie, and then he has to subtly get Jimmy's ring size. . . .

Well. Baby steps, and all that.

They finish eating like that, Jimmy leaning just slightly into Scott's shoulder. Right as they finish, the refrigerator starts humming and the lights flick back on, suddenly enough that Scott has to blink a couple of times to clear the floating clouds of color in front of his vision. The various clocks in the kitchen appliances flash a bright 12:00.

"Power's back," Scott says, less as an actual observation and more as just something to say, and gets up to carry their dishes to the sink, skirting around the glass on the floor. "Okay for me to head out?"

"Yeah, I've got Norman. Don't worry about me," Jimmy says, standing as well. He retrieves the broom from where it leans in the corner of the kitchen. "Speaking of Norman, I'd better get this glass cleaned up before he runs his little feet through it. Have a good day at work!"

"I'll save the world as usual," says Scott. He kisses Jimmy on his way by (Jimmy hums contentedly, all signs of his prior distress gone but for a wrinkle between his eyebrows), grabs his backpack at the door, and heads out into the frigid air of the first snow of the season.

Where the loud noise originated from is not far from where Scott exits his home, just two streets away. Not that he even thinks to go over there, instead heading for the main section of the city, assuming it would be at the hub of most activity. That's where most unidentified sounds originate from, after all.

And as Scott's day continues, he forgets about the sound, just as most others do.

Two streets away from Major's house, popular villain Mythics flees, eyes wild and breath gasping, a swirling portal crackling behind him.

-

It's possibly the best day of the year so far, weather-wise. The snow is actively falling, the streets are sparkling with ice, and Scott has never felt better.

Well, he's probably felt better. It snows every winter, after all.

But it feels so good after summer to finally return to what he is. This is the stuff Scott's made of, this is what gives him life.

It's glorious.

Scott lets out a little whoop as he slides part-way up the side of a building, the ice that already frosts its windows spreading spontaneously to the walls to give him the slipperiness he needs.

The people love it, too. Lizzie takes particular delight in sending him video compilations of his greatest tricks and most impressive fights, and the comments are always full of adoration for his skills and admiration of his power and creations.

So maybe, as he skates down a frozen sidewalk of his own creation (which he unfreezes behind him, because he knows not everyone has the skill to navigate such a path and would probably prefer a normal sidewalk), he adds a couple of flourishes to his act.

There's a group of kids at recess by Empires North Elementary School, and Scott stops to start a snowball fight before continuing on, frosting the windows of every classroom with beautiful little fractals.

He signs his name in frost as intricately as possible on the hood of someone's car, gives them a cheery wave when they run out of the store to take a picture.

He makes tiny snowmen to line the bus stop with just a couple of waves of his hand, then can't stop laughing when a little girl at the stop with her father cheers for 'Elsa'.

Maybe all of the villains of the city took one look out their windows and decided no, thank you, because there’s zero disturbances all morning. Scott doesn’t mind. He doesn’t think he could ever get bored in weather like this.

By the time it hits lunchtime, Scott's cheeks are red from the wind and hurt from smiling. He slides into a small deli and picks out a sandwich and a drink, the latter of which freezes over in his hands quite nicely.

"Major!" the deliman (and owner of the deli, if his nametag is true) exclaims, adding lettuce to his sandwich. "Keeping us all safe?"

"As best I can," Scott smiles. "How are you doing, Felix?"

Felix, the owner, chuckles, going a bit red in the face. "Never better, Major. You can have this free, all right?"

Scott chuckles as well, setting the drink on the counter and digging out his wallet. "I want to pay, don't even worry about it."

"No, no, nothing for you!"

"Come on, Felix, I'm—"

BANG!

Scott follows his first instinct—protection. Within milliseconds, there's an ice wall surrounding Felix, and another one shoots up in front of the large deli windows and door. It's instant, and Scott's never moved so fast in his life but the ice is there and time itself seems to freeze.

Everything is still for a timeless moment, snowflakes slowly swirling around Scott's masked face.

And somehow, he's the ice that lines the streets and the pipes below that travel all the way through the city and the icicles hanging from every roof and the frost paving windshields, and Scott knows that something has gone very wrong.

He's never felt this powerful in his life—nor this overwhelmed. There's so much stimulus, so many far away nerves jangling and he can't focus on the snowflake in front of him when he can see every fractal of it—

"Major!"

With a herculean effort, Scott manages to pull himself back into his body from where the tendrils of his mind have reached all the way across the city. He blinks, looks around.

The entire deli is frozen over.

Two customers are frantically trying to scrape some ice off the shelves, another is kicking at ice on the door, and Felix—

Scott can't even see Felix, a thick wall of ice surrounding him.

Scott panics. He can’t help it—his breathing quickens, his mind races, he starts feeling distantly dizzy at the idea that he might've hurt people, he might've broken something—and he notices, as his frozen fingers shake, that the frost is growing with every moment, slowly spreading to the floor and up the walls.

He hasn't been this out of control since—since he was a teenager, since before he was trained, even, since before he was a hero—

He can fix this. He knows how to fix it. Scott shuts the panic and fear out of his head as best he can and thinks back to his early days of training, back to when Aeor had taught him how to properly channel his emotions for incidents like this.

He hasn't had to consciously control himself in years.

He's never felt like this before.

He takes a slow, deep breath, letting the frenetic energy travel from his brain and heart and out through his finger tips, where frost grows into icicles. Then, with all the control and might that he can muster, Scott pulls, reeling it all back with a steady grip.

Slower than he would've liked, the ice and frost recede, all pulled back into thin air bit by bit. Scott breathes with it, in and out, until the ice walls crack and slide apart and the frost is entirely gone.

He breathes, and with it, his mind begins to settle. He’s all right. Everything’s all right.

Each of the other customers thanks Scott, casting glances both confused and a little fearful in his direction. Felix, luckily, is fine, if a little shocked. Scott subtly slides more than triple the worth of the sandwich into his hand, apologizes for the disruption, and heads out, slightly soggy lunch under his arm.

And again, he can't find the source of such a loud sound—because he remembers, suddenly, that the reason he'd headed out from his house so early this morning wasn't to see the snow, but to find the source of that first sound.

There's almost nobody out on the street, no gun or powered individual or blown transformer that could've caused it. In fact, the only other people outside are people who have stepped out of offices and shops to look around.

Scott gives them a cheery wave when they turn to him, one woman shouting a question in Spanish. "Nothing to worry about," he calls, assuming she'd asked about the sound. "Have a good one!"

"Hey, Major!" a young man waves. "How's your day been?"

"It’s been great!" Scott smiles his best winning smile. "Gotta go—heard about something on the other side of town!"

He didn't hear about anything, and he usually feels pretty good about talking to citizens, but he does feel kind of awkward standing in front of a place he just froze, like a guilty child fleeing the scene of a mess. And he doesn't even have a dog to blame it on.

What had even happened back there?

Scott had—he'd been scared. He'd thrown up normal protections, in case someone was trying to shoot up the deli and had somehow missed the bright blue superhero standing there, and then—

Then he'd felt so much.

Scott's not entirely sure what happened—one moment he'd been fine, totally in control of himself and his actions, and the next he was frost crunching under a pedestrian's foot and an icicle dripping from a gutter and the tiniest snowflake blown about by the wind.

It was nothing like he'd ever felt before.

It was terrifying.

It was exhilarating.

It was—oh, look, there's Joel!

"King!"

Scott spots Joel from across the intersection that he's currently sliding through, and pulls up a ridge of ice to give himself a sharp turn. He slides up to where Joel is leaning against the walk sign pole, waiting to cross the road.

Joel nods to him, eyes looking somewhat preoccupied behind his mask. "Hey, Major. When's your shift end?"

Scott shrugs, pulling his sandwich from where it's tucked under his arm. He ought to eat it sooner rather than later. "Dunno. I was hoping to stay out all day, if possible."

Joel raises a brow. "In the doghouse?"

"Of course not, the weather's just nice."

Joel chuckles. "Yeah, I'd guess so. You and Jimmy never fight, do you?"

"Well, do you and Lizzie?" asks Scott.

"Nope," Joel says proudly. "That's why we got married. We never fight."

Which is a lie, of course. Just last week, when he and Jimmy went over to Lizzie and Joel's apartment for dinner, Lizzie had thrown rolls at Joel all evening and Joel had implied some rather unkind things about her pet rabbit.

Scott doesn't bother calling him out on the lie. Joel's right about one thing—he and Jimmy almost never fight, and when they do, they resolve it quickly and schedule a couple's therapy appointment to make sure there are no lingering issues.

They're perfect for each other.

And once again, Scott's mind turns to the rather pleasant idea of a gold band around Jimmy's finger.

"You two really ought to tie the knot soon," Joel says casually, and Scott can't help but sputter.

"I—were you reading my mind?" he accuses.

"No?" Joel says, voice turning from confused to gleeful in that one syllable. "I—ooooh! You're thinking about it, that means it's practically official! So—are you thinking something big, whole city invited, those nice ice sculpture things like in movies—"

"Sorry, Major? Mad King? Can we get a picture?"

Joel shuts up—thankfully, otherwise Scott would've frozen his tongue in his mouth—and gestures for the two women to stand between him and Scott.

Scott smiles into the phone, and can't help but notice that there's frost on his own cheeks.

That's . . . that's a little odd. He isn't usually radiating cold, not unless he's angry. Maybe it's the high spirits he's in from the weather. That explains it, doesn't it?

Still, when the women leave, Scott scrubs at his face, hoping to warm his cheeks up enough that none of his frigidity can find a home there.

"Yeah, noticed you looked a little chillier than normal," Joel comments. "All good?"

Well, he did sort of lose control during some strange out of body experience earlier. But that's kind of embarrassing, and it was a one-off, so Scott doesn't mention it. He doesn't need Joel to tease him about it, nor tell every hero who'll listen.

He just nods, shrugs, and takes a bite of his sandwich.

-

Jimmy's alone in the house when it happens again, curled up on the couch with his blanket over his shoulders and his LinkedIn profile pulled up on his phone.

He doesn't really know what happens.

All he knows is that there's a loud noise and he doesn’t do well with loud noises, but luckily he manages to keep a hold on his powers this time.

Or, he thinks he does.

Because in the same moment as the BANG, Jimmy feels so much.

And it feels good.

[kissorkill16]

The Most Wonderful, Beautiful Girl I've Ever Seen: A Hello Neighbor Fanfic

By JJ

Summary: Enzo meets Trinity for the first time.

(P.S., for @theodoresmustache !)

I was just trying to get all of my books out of my locker. I was late for Trigonometry, and I was sure that Ivan was going to kill me.

Trig was one of his favorite classes, and as two nerds, we're study buddies in that class. He told me that if I was late again, I could forget about that movie I wanted to watch with Nicky this weekend.

I forgot what that movie was about anyway, all I know is that it was something about aliens.

We were planning to watch it at his house on Saturday, I suggested it, because all we ever hear from him nowadays is dumb stories about Mr. Peterson.

I just want to help him relax and take his mind off of him for a while.

I'd finally gotten the books I needed for class, and was just about ready to close my locker when I heard someone talking.

"Do you know where the -..."

A girl's voice.

I cut her off before she could finish. I didn't mean to though, nor did I want to, I was just in such a hurry and the books I was carrying were so heavy.

"Late for Trig!", I said, "Really want to h-"

I walked forward and bumped into her, the impact making me fall to the floor.

I opened my eyes, and my mouth to apologize, but I didn't even get the words out before I gasped in shock.

She was the most beautiful girl I've ever seen.

She had sparkling violet eyes, smooth brown skin, shiny black hair, she had the face of an angel. As she blinked a few times, I noticed that she was wearing blue eyeshadow. Then I looked at her lips, and she had on dusty rose lipstick.

Was this girl real? Was I dreaming? I wish I wasn't so paralyzed right now so I could pinch myself.

She began to pick up my books, then she handed them to me.

But like a total idiot, I almost yelled "DON'T EVEN NEED THOSE!", and then I ran off.

I was internally slapping myself in the face for being so freaking stupid! The most beautiful girl I've ever seen and I couldn't even muster up a full sentence?! I mean, I did, but I didn't want to make her think I was a doofus.

And what made me even more sick in the stomach was the fact that if Maritza found out about that moment, I'd never hear the end of it.

I hoped to see that girl again.

Luckily, after school, in Mr. Murtaugh's Science Room, I saw her walk in.

And that is how I met Trinity Bales, the most wonderful, most beautiful girl I've ever seen.

[celestie0]

🪷 CTFUUUUUU your gojo and reader sex tape post was so hilarious omg. Ngl to me they don't give the vibes of a couple that make one (I don't mean this as an insult omfg now that I wrote it it sounds rude as hell) but the type who are professional phone fuckers.

Doja cat's Cyber sex is their national anthem I just know it I had a little locker room talk with reader she told me 😙. And yeah what you said abt gojo's schedule being all over the place as a player I'd thought that too, which is why phone sex is 🔛🔝 for these two. Just two freaky frogs omg I know that dude sluts her out bad and she doesn't want it any other way

He's a player (the *other* type of player) too so ofc he'd have expertise in the area of tasteful nudes but reader's learning curve will be so exponential gojo would be left in the dust in a short amount of time😁 RIP BOZO‼️

Imagine a little roleplay scenario where reader dresses up as a cheerleader for gojo after he returns from winning some final match as a victory treat. That dong goes up at an angle of elevation so steep you could make a mean trigonometric question off of it. I need him BAD I need him esp when he's sweaty after a gym or practice session I'd climb that man like jack was climbing that beanstalk.

Anyway I hope you've been doing well sweets! Thanks for being so nice to me in your last ask and I cannot wait to see what you have in store for us I wanna see that horndog be his authentic slutty self around reader finally 🗣️🗣️

Imagine a little roleplay scenario where reader dresses up as a cheerleader for gojo after he returns from winning some final match as a victory treat.

oh dear sweet baby jesus the scream i SCRUMPT AT THIS…HOW HAVE I NEVER THOUGHT OF THAT oh mygooodd that’d be so fuckin hot 😩😩😩 i ran to add that to my notes LOL my head is in my hands i need to write that so fucking bad. HIM RAILING HER WHILE SHE’s WEARING A SKIMPY LIL CHEERLEADER COSTUME AFTER HE JUST PLAYED AN INTENSE GAME babe u cooked w this ty

HAHAHA i feel like they would make a sex tape but they obv wouldnt post it or anything lol it’d just be something they’d do when they’re both drunk asf while on vacation in their hotel room n then they freak out once they get home n realize they lost the flashdrive n someone out there in barcelona is now jerking off to their amateur avante garde porno

And yeah what you said abt gojo's schedule being all over the place as a player I'd thought that too, which is why phone sex is 🔛🔝 for these two. Just two freaky frogs omg I know that dude sluts her out bad and she doesn't want it any other way

okay you’re so right ab cyber sex being (at least post grad) kickoff couple’s anthem 🤧 that “i wish u were here rn” yup. but also LMFAO THATS SO TRUE AB THE SLUTTIN HER OUT he’d have her so downbad she’s flashing her titties at the webcam just cuz she wants to see him cum all over his stomach while he’s jerking himself off to her pixels ✋🏼😩 i was not anticipating to start this day off so horny LOL

idk i like to think all the nudes kickoff gojo has received in his life have been raunchy asf so when he’s so desperate to get a glimpse of kickoff reader while he’s away for work n is like “babe send me a pic please” for the first time n she sends something that’s genuinely really tasteful n artistic n subtle but sexy n leaves a bit to the imagination i feel like that wld drive him more insane than any explicit nude ever would HAHAHAHA

THE DONG GOIN UP YOU COULD PERFORM TRIG ON IT IM CRYING babe i wish to be half as funny as you are some day 🤣🤣

thanks my lovee omg im so happy you’re looking forward to it :””) 💕 you’re my honeybunch sugarplum pumpyumpyumpkin i love yaaa

- ellie 🐸

[novelconcepts]

(Platonic) lottievan with 49 please?

49 - Self-sacrificial

"Don't ever do that again."

Van winces. "It wasn't a big deal."

"This?" Taissa makes a flamboyant, one-handed gesture, encircling Van's face. "This isn't a big deal? Plus, you almost gave up a goal!"

"Now you're just being dramatic. We won by four."

"Not the point!"

Watching their back and forth is weird, thinks Lottie. Weirder still was Van doing something so insane in the first place. She still can't quite wrap her brain around it--how the scene had jumped as if on fast-forward. One second, Lottie was fighting off girls more eager to break her goddamn leg than to steal the ball from her; the next, Van was pelting across the grass, darting in just in time to take an elbow to the eye and end up on her ass.

Van's never done anything like this before. It's usually Van who needs protecting, when the opposing team gets especially vile. It's Van, staunch in the net, the rest of them have to guard.

"Don't," Taissa repeats, frustration lacing every inch of her face, "do it again. I'm gonna get you some ice."

"Love you!" Van calls after her, a sing-song no different from any other day. Taissa flips her the bird. Lottie scrubs the back of her neck.

"For real," she says quietly. "Why'd you do that?"

The amusement fades from Van's purpling eye. Her nose is bruising, too, her face starting to swell badly enough that she'll look like she lost a bar fight by the time they hit Chem tomorrow.

"Van," Lottie says. They're not even friends, really. Lottie looks at these girls, her teammates, and wonders if any of them count as friends. They come over for parties, sure, because her house is the biggest and the emptiest. They laugh with her, dance with her, go out for day trips at the mall with her. But friends?

And still, there was Van, determined and scrappy, shoving her way between a girl's blatant attack and Lottie's face.

"Why?" she asks again, and Van sighs.

"Thought you'd dealt with enough for one day."

Lottie freezes. Enough? The day was normal. Fine. Classes, and pop quiz, and quietly eating lunch at the team table. The day was--

She remembers. This morning, at drop-off. The way her father had raised his voice. The way he'd been so stuck on a B she pulled in Trig--the way he's been stuck on it for three days. He lets it go until they're back in his car, until the drive in, which she is not allowed to make on her own right now because B's don't merit a car, Charlotte.

Van had seen that? Heard it? Van knows?

"Anyway," Van says, almost brusque for the first time, "we need you for the Howlers game Friday. I can make saves with a black eye. You can't score on a twisted ankle. Fair trade."

She flashes Lottie a grin, a twin set of finger-guns Lottie's pretty sure she's picked up from Taissa, and then she's jogging off down the field. Not another word. No room for Lottie to thank her.

Like it was the only thing to do, in Van's mind. Like it was perfectly natural, to look at Lottie's day and decide it could do with one less bruise.

Maybe, thinks Lottie, they are friends, after all.

[gilfrespecter]

for the character ask game you reblogged: 12 + 17 for melissa and 28 + 33 for billy!! :3c

12. how long have they been around? do you know their birthday? is their birthday the day you made them or another day? what do they think of celebrating birthdays?

Other than “sometime in May” I don't know her birthday, and I also don't remember exactly when I came up with her other than late 2020/early 2021? i think I typed out her original concept as a joke and then months later when I was freaking out about continuing to play my Weird Little Guy in my friend Basil’s MOTW campaign I was able to pin her down very fast. But also oh my god she's 4.

She hasn't really celebrated her birthday since she was like. 8. Adam(her dad) would always try to be home around then but it was hard considering that its relatively close to mardi gras season and the logistics of what to do with a tractor trailer lol& quite frankly Needing to pick up jobs. Barbara(grandma who raised her) kind of just. Didn't do celebrations very much at all. Not in like a Mean way more just like. Being horribly horribly depressed and very tight on money thing. So she never really picked up on that and had enough social troubles in elementary school where she wouldn't have been invited to many other kids birthday parties to be like. Jealous of ig? Like probably did Friend Stuff in middle&high school but no strong foundation and then she mcfucking dieded.

Fast forward from the 80s/90s between her inherent memory issues, the long stretch of homelessness/semi homelessness and her trouble keeping track of time and Aging Fuckery From Bring A Shambling Corpse Animated By A God Of Terror she does not remember her birthday either other than “sometime in May”. Only one of her fake IDs has a may date on it.

As for other ppl celebrating bdays she thinks it's like? Really cute. Couldn't plan a party and 50/50 on whether she'd show up if invited but its adorable. 

17. how did they spend their summers/free time as a child?

She transitioned pretty early(9-13ish)(Barbara took care of business), prior to that she didnt have many friends so kind of just followed Barb around like a lost puppy. After that TOTAL latchkey kid, out running around with the other kids in the project till the street lamps came on lol. This stressed Barb to No Fucking End(80s. Magnolia projects) but honestly Melissa looks back on it as a really fond time. Alot of pickup games, hanging out in the graveyard, by the river.

Other than Running Around Outside Barb had roped a cousin into giving her relatively intensive violin/fiddle lessons(both styles). Peepaw Boudreau had played and while Barb has Mixed Feelings about him being dead she was Not Going To Let A Good Instrument go to waste.

In high school she also would've done some minor math tutoring for classmates, geometry&trig especially. She met her best friend/ date doing that(trading, she needed help with english)(he lost touch with her 2 months before she died)

28.how do they show that they care about someone? how do they express that they don't like someone?

Billy is in the Top Contenders For Clingiest Motherfuckers On The Planet. She's just the kind of guy to always be touching someone as long as it's socially acceptable. Also loves doing things for people they care about. Like if someone they like complains even a little bit about a chore other than cooking it will silently make sure he does that for them forever now. (He's a decent cook, just really hates making anything more complex than like. Tea. However is Very big on the Cut Up Fruit Apology. But will also not confess to being the one who's left someone cut up fruit. Albireo is haunted by a fruit ghost). Does tend to be very pushy with ppl he cares about.

As for ppl zi doesn't like. Especially if forced social contact. Very bad at hiding it. Seethes, sulks, glares, 1 word answers. Will not-so-subtly try to bait them into throwing the first punch. In fairness does try to avoid being around ppl she doesn't like. Has inherent issues with authority that can make that challenging

Is capable of acting, however, especially for a Goals Sake. Also generally pretty amicable? Other than being an authority he doesn't think deserves it Something has to Happen for that treatment haha.

Now the Viktor Conundrum. So he was introduced to Viktor right after Jericho, who he looked up to and sort of saw as a ‘everythings going to be ok look at him’ figure, Died Badly. Like. Less than 8 hours. Like he was just sent away from helping on of Jericho’s adult children make a funeral pyre. And was explicitly told by his (not-scary)boss who he just learned is Shadier Than Originally Expected that Viktor is Jericho's replacement now. So already off on the wrong foot. And then they got stuck in a time loop where, in his POV Viktor’s behavior made them stay stuck longer(Maurice does not get this held against them in the same way bc he already likes them). And then {redacted}. So like. He feels bad& responsible for him but also they got off on SUCH a bad foot. And also there's a little(a lot) a bit of that thing where u know when u meet someone with the same kind of autism as you and they grate on ur nerves real bad even though u know you act the exact same way going on.

33. if applicable, how would your other characters describe them? i mean specifically the people around them.

I was going to draw stuff for this but I fucked up my wrist earlierrrrrr. This one's kind of hard to answer bc thanks to TTRPG format the other characters that I think about the most in relation are Not My Guys They Are My Friend's Guys. But other than that, Alondra, their older sister, would be like “little bastard is more stubborn than mamí and that's not a good thing. Wish he'd stop blaming himself” and Mal, her spouse, “I love him, don't get me wrong, but he can be so much sometimes? Like, they're so sweet, but sometimes I just need her to step back, y'know?”

And of course, Maverick(horse), “my pet. Feeds me appy slices :). Doesn't let me bite fingers :( Let's me play with their foal :) makes me go on the train :( takes me to bite cows :) braids my mane and tail :/. I will not stomp them to death with my beautiful and powerful hooves.”

But if someone :jestersweetness: who plays with me would like to answer this I would also greatly like to see that

[pin-crusher2000]

1) Scenario: Due to some time travel shenanigans, Robin!Dick travels forward in time and he runs into Mar’i and Jake while they were on a case together. How do you think it goes from there? 

2) Who are Chris, Jon and Jake’s favorite anime characters?

3) Can you see Chris and Jai challenging each other to a race and like Barry Allen, Jai holding back his true speed extensively?

4) Is Zod Chris’ Archnemesis in Earth 66?

5) the following you may ignore if it makes you uncomfortable;

On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being the highest,

How sensitive to tickle attacks are Mar’i, Chris, Jon and Jake?

Good questions! (1 & 4 is gonna be long XD)

Before I answer #1 I want to do some background info: After Time Commander (Super-Sons villain) got humiliated & jailed by Jake, Mar’i & Nightwing (mar’i burned his outfit leaving him naked & Jake gave him a wedgie). He busted out after a week & went back in time to make sure the kids weren’t born by killing Nightwing. (Note: Nightwing & Starfire went on a honeymoon, so it’s just Jake & mar’i by themselves for a few days). Time Commander (John Starr) found a newly trained Robin roaming the streets for a test for Batman. But the kid was tougher than he looks, Starr had a sore jaw & a sore crotch & both fell into a portal going back to the future & he ran away to rethink strategy. Robin (Dick Grayson) tried to find him but instead found two twins fighting a group of thugs.

1: Mar’i & Jake were trying to solve the mysterious case of the Tally Mark Slasher (hint hint 😉) (also Jake was wearing a Robin outfit for the giggles) when they met Robin & realize that he was their dad when he was their age & tried their best not to mess up the timeline. So the three of them decided to help each other’s problems & send Robin back to the past. (Without revealing too much info about themselves) After a few hours kicking butt & interrogation thugs, they managed to find the killer himself, frozen in time: Victor Zsasz, & Time Commander himself stealing money (cause reasons XD) the three of them mange to stop Time Commander & put him in handcuffs for the cops. Before Robin leaves back to his time, he has something to ask:

Robin (Dick Grayson): How important is me being Robin?

Jake: really important! hundreds of sidekicks wouldn’t exist without your influence, & all thanks to you, we are able to live because of you, you gave everybody hope! You’re the heart of sidekicks.

Mar’i: yeah, what he said.

The three hugged before Robin goes back to the past…….Victor Zasasz was freed from time freeze & was in handcuffs, confused on why his pants were around his ankles, underwear pulled up from his butthole, & some childish drawings were on him; especially a Robin symbol on his chest. (*wipes sweats on forehead* darn I need a break XD)

2: Chris: Gohan, future trunks, gogeta, broly (dbz), Tokoyami, deku, shoto, Ochaco ( my hero academia), Obito, naruto, Kakashi, mintato, sasuke (Naruto)

Jon: Goku, (canon) goten, gotenks, gogeta, future trunks, hit. (DB) naruto (canon) sasuke, itachi, rock Lee (naruto) izuku, bakugo, all-might, shoto, (MHA) Luffy, ace, sabo, zoro, & chopper (one piece).

Jake: goku, gohan, vegito, cabba, broly. (Dbz) naruto, itachi, pain, (naruto) izuku, dabi, twice, all-might (MHA) luffy, sanji, chopper (One Piece).

3: yup XD & when Jai decided to use his speed full power he decides to taunt Chris either: pulling down his lower eyelid & sticks tongue out, gives the middle finger(s), show his bare butt & spanks it (maybe kisses his hand first) or saying meep meep! & speeds off leaving Chris in the dust.

4: yes, but as a one off villain, let me explain: I do like the idea of zod escaping from the Phantom Zone years later instead of a few days (great idea bud) but instead of joining zod because of his “background,” Chris was a sleeper agent (in my universe).

When space pirate Amalak (from new earth’s Superman comics) invades earth (when Chris was 12) to hunt down Kryptonians, he accidentally triggers Chris’s “sleeper agent code”: zod. (By telling Chris he looks just like him) days later, at night, Chris sneaks off to the fortress of solitude & frees zod & 30 other kryptonian criminals from the zone, kneeling to them.

The next day, zod & the criminals did an invasion in Metropolis. (As seen in the Last Son book) the superfamily (Clark, Kara, Karen, Kon, Jon 11, & krypto)the justice league, Young Titans, & the special police force with kryptonite weapons defends the city; The only kryptonians left were zod & Chris (Some were taken down non-lethally & the rest killed). After seeing NightStar gets trapped by broken buildings, Chris breaks free from his programming, & unleashed a power nobody ever seen before: Dark Phantom mode.

(In my universe, after a beaten by his dad, Chris was thrown outside the prison where he was born, slowly dying from the pain, when suddenly, a mystical blue dragon called NightWing (who created the zone in my universe; a myth) appeared out of nowhere & went into his body as pure energy to heal him & gave him unique abilities that needed to be unlocked somehow.)

Chris (in the present) with Superman, fought Zod (a less brutal version of the invincible vs conquest fight) & snaps zod’s neck (like man of steel) using his darkness powers to save Superman from being killed. Chris screamed in pain & sadness, being comforted by his “dad” Superman. A fe days later, Superman takes Chris in outer space saying you belong here, you belong. Then, they went back down to earth to their home in Hamilton county & did a big group hug with his “family.”

5: since they’re kids, probably between 8-10; on the feet, stomach, rib cage, & on the thighs when grabbed.

Whew! That took a while. Let me know if you got more questions buddy! :D

[miss-andromeda]

Standing Alone In A Crowded Room

Universe: TMNT 2012

Turtle of Choice: Donatello

Prompt: Character A is found by Character B crying themselves to sleep.

Song Inspirations: The Story Of Us (Taylor’s Version) by Taylor Swift, What If It Doesn’t End Well by chloe moriondo

This is non-canon, though if it were, it would take place in season 2, so Andi and Donnie are in a relationship.

----------

A gentle knock at the lab door didn’t stop Donnie from welding together the pieces of scrap metal as he merely called out a “what is it?” That earned him a snicker (which immediately made him put down the blowtorch) and a “wow, way to greet your girlfriend, Don.”

That made him look up at the girl in the doorway, making him subconsciously smile. “Hey, you, how was school?” He asked, standing up and going to kiss her as a greeting. 

Once he pulled away, Andi smiled up at him as she put her backpack down and put her rosy pink cardigan on top of it. “Pretty good, though I have something to ask.” She told him, making Donnie nod and lead her over to the lab desk so she could sit next to him. 

After they were both sitting down (and Donnie was giving her his full attention,) she took a breath and smiled softly at him. “So, uh…Roosevelt’s hosting a dance this Saturday at 7 pm, and I figured, since, you know, we’re dating, that…maybe you could, um…go with me? You can use that watch again and be my date.”

Donnie was immediately about to nod and smile, but then he remembered the day and gave her an apologetic look. “Hon, you know I absolutely would in a heartbeat, but I can’t. We have patrol in the evening, and then I need to finish working on this new upgrade of the shuriken stars we always use. I’m thinking of seeing if I can add a type of oxidizer, kind of like a smoke bomb and a throwing star rolled into one.” He explained, but sighed at the sad look on her face. He hated seeing her like that. “You know I would absolutely go if I could, but it’s super important that I have them done by then.”

“I know.” Andi mumbled, standing up to grab her backpack so she could start her calculus homework. “I was just…looking forward to going with you.” She admitted, making Donnie lean in and give her an apologetic kiss on the cheek. 

“I’ll make it up to you, promise.”

----------

The next day found Andi walking alone to lunch - April had decided to stay after biology for extra credit and knowing Casey, he was being chastised by Mrs. Biers, his and April’s trig teacher, for being on the fringes of failing…again. 

Ah, she’d deal with him when the time came. 

She spared a glance at her purple binder (she had decided to bring some work while she waited for her friends…well, friend and Casey) and smiled to herself at the little picture she’d taken of Donnie, where he was in the middle of reading a book to her on the rare time they decided to have some downtime. 

Even when she was a little upset with him, she could never stay mad at him for too long.

“Hey, Andi! Can I talk to you?” 

She was stopped from walking as she caught a glimpse of shaggy, light brown hair running toward her. He looked…vaguely familiar, his name was…Josh, right?

“Hi.” His smile reminded her of Donnie, maybe it was because of the slight dorkiness of it or the fact that just like him, he had a gap as well. 

“Uh, hi, um…why did you want to talk to me?” She asked, slightly confused.

“Oh, right! I wanted to ask you something! About the dance this Saturday! Um, do you have a date?”

Andi’s heart dropped at that. “I, um…thought I did.” When Josh gave her a sympathetic look, she shook her head. “Long story. So what, do you want to go with me or something?”

At the question, Josh’s hazel eyes lit up and a smile graced his face. “Yeah, I do! You seem like a nice girl, and I wanna get to know you a little better! And what better way to do that than to take you to a dance?”

Andi hesitated at that. It sounded and felt wrong to agree…but at the same time, she wasn’t going with Donnie anytime soon. 

But she needed to make one thing clear. “If we go, we go as friends. I have a boyfriend, and the last thing I want him to think is that you and I are going as a couple.” She then looked directly in his eyes. “And if you try anything, you’re a dead man, you hear me?”

Seemingly unphased by her bluntness, Josh gave her a confident smile. “Got it! Yeah, we’ll just go as friends, no romantic motives here!”

Andi stared at him for a moment at the odd choice of wording, but finally nodded and gave in, writing down her number and address on a piece of scrap paper, then handing it to him. “Pick me up at my apartment at 6:30, okay?”

Josh gave her another smile as he pocketed the paper. “Yeah, sounds like a plan!”

“Cool, okay, um…well, I’ve got to get to lunch, my friends are probably waiting for me. Bye.” Andi gave him a slightly awkward wave as she walked away, immediately staring at the picture again. It somehow felt gross and weird again…but at the same time, there was only so much she could do in a situation with this. She already told him that they were strictly going as friends, so if he made any moves on her, that was on him. She could just hold her gun to him and that would get him off her back, and then she could just leave and tell Donnie what happened.

And speaking of Donnie…how was she going to explain it to him? She wasn’t necessarily cheating, but still…it just felt weird.

She let out a little sigh at the thought. This was going to be interesting to spell out…

----------

Standing in front of the lab door never felt more intimidating. But she had to be honest with him, the worst thing he could do was get frustrated with her…

But that was the thing. She hated when he was frustrated with her, especially because of something she did. 

A deep, quiet sigh left her lips one more time as she bit the bullet and knocked on the door. Once again, another “what is it?” was heard from the other side, making her smile weakly. “Can I come in?”

She could practically hear his lips quirk into a smile as he replied, “Yeah, of course, hon!” She held her breath as she pushed the door open, meeting his bright eyes with her guilty, green ones. “Hey.”

Immediately, Donnie’s eyes shifted from joyous to concerned - and so did his tone. “Are you okay? You look pensive.” 

Andi’s automatic response was to say she was fine, but she knew if she did, Donnie would tell her she was hiding something - and that would make things even worse. She shook her head and walked over to the lab desk, sitting next to him. “I, um…need to tell you something.”

His gaze then became more concerned as he placed a hand on her back comfortingly. “Of course, what’s going on?”

That little touch made her want to cry. 

“I, um…” She sighed and bit the bullet again, looking down at the table. “There was this kid earlier today, he, um…came up to me, and asked if I had a date to the dance this Saturday. I, uh…I said no.” At that, she could feel his touch leave her back, making her want to start crying again. “And then he asked if I wanted to go with him, and I said yes, but I made it clear that we were going as friends only.”

When she looked back up, Donnie was looking away from her - his eyes stormy and misty from unshed tears. “But…you still said yes?”

“Yes, but we’re only going as-”

“I don’t care what you’re going as!” His tone turned angry as his head snapped over to look at her. “You’re gonna be some other guy’s girlfriend for the night?”

Stunned, Andi shook her head. “It’s not like that! I explicitly told him that he’d better not try anything with me, and that I have a boyfriend!”

“That’s right, you have a boyfriend. But I guess you forgot about that when you agreed to be that guy’s date! What, just because I told you I couldn’t do something with you this one time, that means you have the right to be some other guy’s girlfriend for the night?!”

Now Andi was starting to get irritated as she angrily stood up. “What part of ‘we’re going as friends’ do you not understand, you idiot?! I only agreed because I knew he was going to bother me about it, and I made sure he knows that it’s only platonic! It doesn’t mean anything!”

Donnie stood up next to her, his eyes blazing with anger. And out of anger, he said the one thing that he knew would hurt her:

“Sure doesn’t seem like it.”

Immediately, her face dropped and tears filled her eyes, but her face got red with anger. “Are you actually accusing me of not loving you anymore?” She told him, her voice quiet but filled with rage.

While Donnie’s heart split at seeing her cry (especially because of him,) he was still more hurt and angry than remorseful in the moment. “If you really did love me, Andromeda, you never would’ve accepted that guy’s offer to take you out.”

She scoffed and shook her head, tears now freely falling. “You know what? Forget you, Donatello. I’m going with him. I bet he’d be more fun than you would ever be.”

More hurt and anger controlled what he said - even if he knew that he would never mean what he said in a million years. “You know what, he probably is. If anything happens, don’t bother letting me know. Clearly your new boyfriend has you taken care of.”

Andi only scoffed, grabbed her bag and stormed out of the lair.

----------

And before either of them knew it, Saturday evening was here. 

They hadn’t talked since the fight - no calls, no video chat, no texts, nothing. Both of them were practically waiting for the other to just give in and reach out - and when that wouldn’t be the case, they would both do their best to try and go on with their day, their hearts breaking as they did so. 

As expected, Donnie had filled the void with experimenting - but it felt a bit more empty without seeing Andi alongside him. Her witty humor, sarcastic remarks, bright laugh…she added a new layer that Donnie had gotten comfortably used to when he was working. 

Without her, it felt like a piece of his scientific mind was missing. 

But then he glanced at the time and, seeing it was 6:30 pm, he rolled his eyes and went back to his work. Andi’s date would likely be picking her up soon…just the thought filled him with jealousy again. Someone else, touching his beautiful girlfriend…

He shook the thought out of his mind before he got even more distracted. She made her decision, and now he was making his. 

And even if he knew that he was being petty, he didn’t necessarily care at the moment. 

It was the principle that mattered…even if it was a pretty stupid principle.

----------

Meanwhile, Andi had just finished getting herself ready (the makeup took her longer than expected) and had just walked into the living room, her 2-inch heels clacking softly against the wooden floor. She looked nice - even if internally, she felt conflicted to the fourth degree. 

She still felt guilty about accepting Josh’s invitation, but at the same time…Donnie had said he wasn’t going with her. And why was she about to stop herself from enjoying her night when someone else (and seemingly, a perfectly normal someone else) offered to be her date - even if they were just going as friends?

It was the principle that mattered. 

And besides, there was something oddly cathartic about going to a party (or in this case, a school dance) after getting in a fight with him. Obviously, she wasn’t going to do anything she would really regret (and risk losing him for good,) but the idea of seeing her friends (or rather, friend and Casey - again) dressed up, dancing to the most popular songs and getting to know someone in Josh…didn’t seem like a bad idea. 

Maybe after the night was over, Donnie would wisen up and send an apology. 

Taking a breath in the mirror, Andi did a final one-over at herself. Her dress was cute; a pink hem dress with a high a-line - even if seeing his necklace made her heart crack. Her hair was teased and in a high ponytail, and a matching pink ribbon was tied into a bow to secure it. And her makeup…it took time, but she pulled it off. Much like what April normally did for her, a neutral look was the way to go for her. Foundation, concealer, pink lip gloss - but what was different (and what she was surprised that she pulled off) was the winged eyeliner and mascara that made her green eyes pop.

It made her look even better than she thought she would. 

She checked her phone (and after rolling her eyes at no contact from Donnie,) she saw the time - 6:40 pm. While she was a bit miffed that he was late, she could excuse it. He was probably running late and was on his way now. 

Still, it would’ve been nice to have a heads up. 

Deciding not to check her phone again, she grabbed her copy of War and Peace and continued reading; maybe by the time she finished a chapter, she would get some type of heads up from Josh, or better yet, he would be knocking on her door. 

“In the count’s room, which was full of tobacco smoke, they talked of the war that had been announced in a manifesto, and about the recruiting. None of them had yet seen the manifesto, but they all knew it had appeared.”

----------

“Gone? That’s all right!” said he; and looking angrily at the unconscious little princess, he shook his head reprovingly and slammed the door.”

10 chapters later, and still no Josh. 

Angrily closing her book, Andi grabbed her phone - for two reasons this time. The time (which was now 7:45 pm), and to demand some answers. 

She saw the missed messages from April, stemming from ‘Aren’t you on your way?’ to ‘Want me and Casey to come get you?’ to ‘Andi seriously, let me know what’s going on’.

She only responded with, ‘I’m calling him now. Don’t think I’m gonna come, because if I see him, I’ll beat his face in.’

She then used the number Josh had used to text her days before and called, her face red with anger. She was just about to start demanding where he was when he answered with a “hello?”, but then stopped when he heard another voice next to him. 

A girl’s voice. 

“Uh, did you forget we were supposed to go together? What happened to that?” She told him, her tone inches away from boiling over into full-blown anger.

“Oh, yeah, uh…look, Andi…I wasn’t really serious when I asked that. Uh, can I explain?”

Andi rolled her eyes and scoffed at the wording. ”Yeah, I’d like an explanation.”

“So look, I only asked you if you’d go with me ‘cause…well, then I could tell everyone I got another girl to be my date. And it spread to Becca, you know her, and…well, she told me yesterday that she wanted to get back with me, and she missed me, and I ended up askin’ her. I didn’t really know how to tell you, so I just…didn’t.”

At the explanation (and the half-baked way he said it,) Andi had to hold back from calling him as many expletives as she could think up. “So I was just a-”

Before she could say ‘rebound,’ Josh hung up on her, leaving her stunned for a second. 

And then she started to cry.

Throwing her phone aside, she grabbed a pillow to stuff her face into it (she was so relieved it could be washed), sniffling and whimpering pathetically. It wasn’t that she was angry because she had feelings for him - honestly, she couldn’t care less about him. 

It was two different reasons: she hated feeling used (and for such a dumb reason as being a rebound,) and that this was the reason she and Donnie had gotten into that fight. 

Donnie…just remembering him made Andi’s head shoot up, her pillow now stained with mascara. 

Now it was being used to catch more mascara-laden tears as she grabbed her phone again and went to the messages app. She was tempted to text April first and explain what was going on, but she stopped herself. 

Right now, she needed her turtle. 

So instead of going to April’s contact name, she went to Donnie’s and typed in a message for him:

‘Hey…look, I know I’m probably the last person you want to see right now, but hear me out. I’m so sorry for what happened, it was really selfish of me to accept his offer to the dance. I was too focused on having a good time that I didn’t even think about you. Makes sense why you would think that way, it does look a little bad when your girlfriend is going as someone else’s date, friend or not. 

The other reason I’m sending this is because…I’m home. That boy ended up being a real jerk, and he flat-out told me he was just using me - and then ended up standing me up. I understand if you don’t want to, but if you could come over…it would really help. 

And if it helps…I love you.’

She sniffled as she sent the message, then immediately put her phone down and curled up on the couch, closing her eyes.

It wasn’t like she expected a response.

----------

Donnie read the message three times over just to ensure that he wasn’t hallucinating. 

All of his frustration and anger towards her faded away as he read it over - she apologized (which he was appreciative of,) but then it came back as he kept going. 

But not to her, to that simpleton who thought it was okay to stand her up. 

He was about to send back a reply, but went against it - deciding it was smarter to do what she asked and run to her. 

Hopefully she was still in a mood to see him.

----------

By the time he made it, his heart split at the sight.

Andi was still in her dress, but her makeup was smudged and messy and her ribbon had been discarded on the table. Her heels had been tossed to the side - right by the door, And she looked to be…quietly snoring.

And if he looked closely, he could see faded mascara lines on her cheeks and on her pillow. 

If he didn’t feel like scum before, he absolutely did now.

Quietly opening the window, he crept inside and walked over to her, gently shaking her shoulder. When she jumped awake, he gave her an apologetic look. “Hi.”

“Don…?”

“It’s me, enchantress.”

The room was quiet as Donnie stepped in front of her, then kneeled down to face her and grab her hands. “I got your message.”

“You did?”

He only nodded. “I am so sorry for what happened. I was being jealous for no reason and I wasn’t bothering to listen and hear you out. I should’ve given you the benefit of the doubt…believe me, I know you would never do anything to hurt me in a million years. It was just…the idea of you being with someone else, even if it was only platonic…it hurt. But instead of telling you that, and having a normal conversation about it, I just…” He sighed as he squeezed her hands, his gaze averting to the floor. “I let my emotions get the better of me.”

“It’s okay, I forgive you.” She whispered, letting go of one of his hands to tilt his head back up to look her in the eyes. “You mean everything to me, professor, and I don’t want one stupid fight to end us. Especially when we can both make sure that it doesn’t get to this point. I need to be more considerate about your feelings, and not just act on my own volition, and you need to remember to trust me. I understand where you’re coming from, but I mean it when I say I never want to be the source of your pain. You’re the center of my solar system, and the last thing I want is to lose the sun that all my planets revolve around.”

Donnie gave her a weak smile as he grabbed the hand resting under his chin, then pulled her in to rest their foreheads together. “I love you. More than anything.” He whispered, making her tearfully smile back. 

“I love you too.”

He leaned in to kiss her, the now sticky lip gloss being as apparent as ever. But in the moment, he didn’t mind it. Normally, he wouldn’t love the feeling lingering on his lips after he pulled away from her - but after what they had gone through in the past few days, he welcomed it with open arms.

Anything that told him that Andi forgave him and that they were going to be okay.

After what felt like forever, he finally pulled away and gave her another little smile. “Do you want me to stay over? You can change into some pajamas and we’ll just hang out for the night.” 

For the first time that night, she smiled back. “I’d like that.” She replied, then gasped to herself when he helped her off the couch. “I’ll be in my room in a little bit.” She said, then took a breath as she went to grab some pajamas, and then went to the bathroom.

----------

And after an exceedingly long amount of time (the makeup had taken much longer to remove than she intended - and she wanted to take a shower to ensure that any residue was washed away,) Andi was finally finished. 

Wearing a white lace cami and pink shorts, and with her hair in a bun, she walked out of the bathroom and hung the dress up, looking at it pensively. “Shame I never got to wear it out, it’s a pretty one.” She commented, then walked over to Donnie, who was now sitting on the side of her bed. Giving him a little smile, she got under the covers and gestured for him to follow - and the pink tint on his cheeks made her giggle under her breath. “I’m not gonna bite, Don.”

“I-I know, it’s just…I’m never gonna get used to doing stuff like this.” He only replied, making her roll her eyes fondly. 

“Just come here and cuddle me, dummy.”

That finally made Donnie crack a smile and cave, getting under her bubblegum covers and pulling her into his arms. 

As if by magic, Andi let out a yawn as she snuggled closer. “I’m glad you came over…” She mumbled under her breath, closing her eyes. She hadn’t realized how tired she had become until now - and Donnie’s warmth and overall presence was absolutely not helping.

She subconsciously smiled when he kissed her on the forehead. “Go to sleep, hon, we’ll talk in the morning.” He softly told her, then bit back a laugh as she lightly nodded - falling asleep almost immediately. 

When he heard her softly snoring, he glanced over at the dress and smiled the same way she had before. If what had happened tonight…well, hadn’t happened, she would’ve looked beautiful in it. 

While he could breathe at the idea that they were able to talk about what happened, that didn’t mean that he was happy that such a nice outfit was basically wasted on a night like this - and he was doubly bothered that they couldn’t go to that dance together.

So that got him thinking.

She deserved to have a great night, wearing a beautiful outfit, and having her boyfriend right by her side. She especially deserved it after he was such a jerk to her the entire week…seriously, getting that jealous over some kid that would never have a chance with her in a million years - especially after that same kid turned out to be a dirtbag too?

Yeah, she definitely deserved him making it up to her. 

And that’s when ideas started to form…maybe a nice dinner in the lab? Or on her rooftop? And he could give her that dance that she likely wanted if they went tonight.

And it’d be even better because it would be just them. No brothers, no stupid kid to stand her up…just the two of them. 

He glanced at her sleeping face and managed a little smile, kissing her on the forehead again. 

That was definitely something to talk about in the morning.

----------

STS Takeover: September Edition! Hope y'all enjoy 🩷🩷

@thelaundrybitch @leosgirl82 @post-apocalyptic-daydream @tinkabelle19 @eveandtheturtles @happymoonangel @kikithedreamerwriter @android-cap-007 @raphsmuneca

[spogwam]

Final Year Project Research - 5

As previously discussed, In the Breeks will not be adapted to a grad film project for now. However, as a final post, I would like to discuss the process of research and development that I have undertaken in producing my final script.

Research

Much of my research for this script was reminiscing with old members of the TYT (Tain Young Team). Upon returning home for a long weekend, I met up with my old pals Lewis and Brandon for a walk and to discuss my film. They were both enthusiastic about the idea, they liked the rebellious nature of its protagonists and the visual element of graffiti, recommending spots around my hometown where I could get away with it (lol). We discussed a show called American Vandal we had all watched, which is great fun, but I told them it was too thematically light for comparison. I told them I wanted to tackle the problem of drug deaths in the Highlands are other rural areas. I asked them whether they thought drugs were more prevalent in the Highlands but they disagreed entirely.

Brandon responded: "You students in Edinburgh do way more gear and drinking than us. Its just our stuff is worse quality."

This was a great insight, which I further researched through government statistics, discovering that in certain rural Highland towns, the rate of drug deaths were over ten times higher than those in Edinburgh for example (200 per 100,000, compared to 18 per 100,000). This reassured me on the importance of making the film, as the three of us personally knew people who died after taking impure substances.

Other help I was offered was in relation to the graffiti element, I originally planned on having Bailey paint cutting, ironic paintings that reflected his cynicism. Lewis and Brandon thought this was unrealistic, and if they were doing graffiti it would be something small and simple as to not get caught in the act, like a penis for example. This is where this element came from, and when I realised I had been in Edinburgh too long and needed a look back at the archives of my youth.

I looked through old photographs of the TYT to research costumes and props and remembered that to avoid the police we would drink alcohol with mixers from 2L plastic bottles. I also found many locations for the film this way, recalling overgrown alleyways and side streets that we'd stop for a smoke in when kicking about. I later walked my dog Ghillie about the town, stopping off at my old haunts to get a feel for the film's setting, the stark contrast between the beauty of the countryside and the dire state of the council schemes was a primary takeaway during these wanders.

I wrote a draft of the script while I was at home, the first of three, that would change dramatically as I worked through it with Kate.

Script Development

1st Draft

In the first draft, Bailey was instead Tupac, which was of immediate concern to the course tutors, having his actions and character associated with a pop culture icon would detract from the characters individuality and so the name was changed.

Structurally, the script had no inciting incident, at least not until the 5th and 6th pages. This was far too late, and meant the viewer could lose interest in Tupac and Trig's meandering before Laura informing Tupac about the circumstances of Jamie's death propels the plot forward. There was a lot of fat to trim, namely an emotional conversation between Tupac and Laura following the revelation that was unnecessary and too student film for me, and was also unrealistic as canonically Laura would not willingly spend this much time with Tupac.

It also opened with a flashback of Tupac, Trig, and Jamie messing about down the beach on the night of his death. This fundamentally broke the principles of realism that I was trying to instil, and laid things out too plainly, without room for interpretation.

It had some good stuff in it, but was rough and the pacing was off, so Kate encouraged me to make the climactic incident of the script, the confrontation with Conner, instead the inciting incident near the beginning, switching it around.

2nd Draft

In the second draft the film kicks off at a pace with the revelation from Laura and the confrontation with the dealer wrapping up by the fourth page. This effectively instigated Bailey's vendetta against his hometown, but fundamentally meant the film lost momentum after this point. Also, this draft muddied Bailey's motivation, as him being drunk was the primary reason for him and Trig's fallout. This is an entirely separate theme that was not developed and so needed the chop.

As an exercise in building tension, it was clear the confrontation had to be positioned at the end of the film as the pacing was way off, so I returned to this structure in the third draft.

3rd Draft

The structure of this draft is one I am sticking with, a kind of jakey detective narrative that gives the film and its characters great momentum until its climax.

The inciting incident is Bailey's conversation with Laura, but instead of knowing where to go right away, Bailey and Trig set off to question those who were with Jamie near the end of his life to find the person responsible. They start at Jamie's old workplace, the local joinery, which leads them to the town nightclub, where they find some jakeys who know the dealer who gave Jamie the deadly dose.

This structure worked perfectly, establishing motivation from scene to scene, and involving the audience in the mystery of Jamie's death, learning as the film progresses.

The climactic scenes of this draft were the confrontation with the dealer Conner, and a following argument between Bailey and Trig over the ethics of letting rage out on people who are innocent.

Both of these scenes perfectly foreshadow Trig's death, showing Bailey's true colours and introducing Trig to a drug dealer.

4th and Final Draft

There were only minor changes to be made as I worked on my final draft, mainly in trimming the fat in new scenes added in the "mystery narrative."

I say the changes were minor, but the ending of the film in which Bailey takes the drugs was also changed, as many people interpreted this as a suicide attempt understandably, which was a bit too bleak for my liking. Instead, Bailey sits down next to Trig's body, spending a moment with him in deep introspection before all of the shit goes down.

This was as good as it gets, and Kate's help was invaluable in exploring the many different routes these characters could take in their odyssey to land on the perfect one.

In conclusion

I've learned so much over this past semester about screenwriting and story structure. My skills in pacing, writing character arcs, and subtext has vastly improved over the course of writing In the Breeks. I hope to adapt the script at a later date as I still think it is a story that needs told, but am satisfied with the work I have done for this module.

[painfulrant]

A Long Day

JJ Maybank x Reader

Fluff, comfort

A Long Day

The numbers on the page blurred together with all the thoughts and the blood boiling beneath your skin. Having cried two times already from exhaustion and frustration, you latched your hands to your scalp feeling the heat, your body temperature, rise once more. Your chest contracted with sobs that were being held in, your stubbornness not letting a sound leave your mouth. If you couldn’t understand simple algebra then how were you supposed to do trigonometry and calculus classes?

Thankfully, the door to your room opened, drawing your attention there instead of on the packet of trig and scattered pages on the bed. Shock would’ve and probably should have been your first reaction but from all the negative emotions and thoughts swarming around you, you were thankful for whoever was about to step through that door. Serial killer, boyfriend, or not.

Fortunately, JJ walked in with a huff, throwing his sweat covered, dirty shirt into the chair that sat in the corner. With one look, you could tell he was exhausted. He stood there looking at the mess in front of you before slowly looking at you with a confused expression that soon turned to concern when he watched the first tear drop.

He silently walked over, not a word between either of you, before gently clasping your hand in his. Deciding to just follow and not argue, you stood and followed him to the bathroom, concentrating more on making the tears stop then watching where you were going. Before you knew it, the room turned from the dull blue of your room to the light tan bathroom with a curtain that had a cow skull on it.

You looked in the mirror looking at your tear soaked, puffy eyed face before having to fight against the tremble under your lip. You looked horrid and you hated it. Lack of sleep, stress, and not enough food had done wonders for you and a dull ache in your chest slowly began to grow into more of a sharp pain, squeezing the air from your lungs.

Needing a distraction, you turned the nozzle to the bath, letting your fingers rest under the water and adjusting it so it’s lukewarm. When warm fingers ran over your shoulders and down your back, under the silky cloth of your tank top, you sighed softly feeling your worries slowly drain.

You let him undress you, before you sank down in the bath and opened your arms so he could join you. Once he finally settled, you wrapped your legs around his waist and began to gently run your hands over his shoulder, back, and neck, rubbing out any tense spots. He was sore, the way he walked and tensed anytime your hands ran over a certain part said so.

After several minutes of silence and both of y’all’s hair and body being washed and scrubbed, he finally craned his neck backwards to find your eyes. You let your fingers run through his hair before softly brushing your lips against his shoulder.

“I may be getting fired.” JJ muttered, looking forward to where his hands ran over your thighs, giving you goosebumps and immediate mind numbing comfort.

“What happened?” You hummed, holding him closer. It was no lie that JJ didn’t like his job but it kept the both of you afloat.

“I didn’t know how to do something… Instead of asking, I tried to do it and failed, resulting in the company having to pay for it.” He all but whispered and you were sure that if he were facing you, not only would his face be red but he wouldn’t be able to keep eye contact from how embarrassed he was.

You let out a small amused huff before laying your head on his shoulder.

“I’m not sure if I can fix it.” He finally stated, his hands gently squeezing your thighs like a stress ball.

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” The words were encouraging and dipped in honey and love. At least you hoped they were. When he didn’t answer for a bit, you began to grow weary. Questions of him being mad at you or you having responded the wrong way were tossed repeatedly around your head but all worries were soon snuffed out when he brought your hand, that laid against his chest, up to his mouth and placed a kiss to every one of your knuckles.

“You gonna tell me what the mess was?” He asked, shifting so he lay on the opposite side of the bathtub before opening his arms to you. An instant smile lit your face, happy to be able to relax against him.

“Algebra… It’s just a review for the class but the professor insists on us relearning these ways. I didn’t learn them to begin with though. You know how our school was.” You answered, trying to keep it short so you can just forget about it. It seemed he knew better though.

“And what part had my pretty girl crying? fixing to tear her hair out? Hmmm?” He asked, tracing circles around your belly button. You clucked, acting as though you were thinking of an answer before he gave a soft pinch to your stomach, a subtle but affectionate warning. So with a sigh, you explained, playing with your hands that were in your lap.

“I just don’t understand any of it. I’ve been trying for hours with nothing. I’ve looked at videos, I’ve asked questions, I even got a private tutor to help but it seems as though it just wasn't meant for me.” The cracks in your voice was just the start, as another tear slid down your cheek.

“And if I fail this exam tomorrow then I won’t be able to continue on with the course which means I won’t get to get the job I’ve talked about since I was a teen.” Your voice was quiet and shaky, all the pain, stress, frustration, and fear plaguing you. It was difficult to take a breath and you felt the walls around you begin to swirl so you turned and leaned against JJ with your eyes tightly shut. You didn’t want to go into an attack right now. Now was really not a good time. Or maybe it was and you were just afraid of seeming weak.

When JJ cupped your face and brought his lips to your own, you hesitated to kiss back, your lungs already screaming for air. To your own surprise though, the kiss allowed you to take a deep gasp of fresh air when you both pulled back.

J held you close, using one hand to wipe your tears away and the other to write ‘I love you’ on your warm soaked skin.

“Study without desire spoils the memory, and it retains nothing that it takes in.” He answered, his eyes glancing back down to your lips.

“That isn’t the issue because I do want to do good so I can-” You started, a shaky breath leaving your lips that he was eyeing like a starving man.

“No.” He started firmly but coolly.

“You desire the job, not the class.” With that, you stopped, staring at him with wide eyes before looking down with furrowed brows. It was no lie you disliked algebra… but could you dislike it so much that you just weren’t giving it a chance?

“There's my beautiful smart *ss.” J exclaimed with a wide smile and relieved eyes. He hated when you cried and he was determined. He was determined to catch every tear and be there for every breakdown so that you never had to suffer alone. He was determined to make you smile… to show just how much you meant to him. And he’s accomplished just that with the small victory of hearing your beautiful laughter and the playful shove to his chest.

“You’re a dork.” You smiled, gleaming with new found determination and something else he couldn’t quite place. Love? Appreciation? Relief? Maybe even a little of all of them.

Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better. - Maya Angelou.

Study without desire spoils the memory, and it retains nothing that it takes in. - Leonardo da Vinci.

[fanmoose12]

Heyyyy,

It's been so long and just today I reread some of your fics and when i came to Friday, I'm in love. I know that we need a bit of a drabble from Levi's point of view. After reading Eny's She would never know the angst got to me and your fic cheered me up. Anyways, if you are up for a little drabble I'm looking forward for it

"Skipping again, eh, Ackerman?"

Shifting his gaze from the gorgeous view of a wide blue sky that the school rooftop provides him with, Levi turns to face the owner of the deep, strict but altogether an extremely poor imitation of Shadis' voice. Isabel cackles when she catches his eyes and skips towards him, dragging Furlan along.

Levi sighs, as his friends sit down on both sides of him, effectively sandwiching him between their bodies. Their warm and slightly stinking bodies - Isabel must have forced Furlan to play volleyball with her again. He wordlessly offers them both a cigarette - perhaps, that will mask the awful scent somewhat, and then takes one for himself too.

"No, but seriously," Furlan lights up his cigarette and passes the lighter back to Levi. "Why are you here? I thought you decided to stop skipping."

Levi makes a face. "Kenny decided that. And I won't lose much if I skip trig once or twice anyway."

"You're not worried that Shadis will tell your uncle about it?"

"That bald jerk will find a reason to shit on me one way or another."

In between clenched teeth that hold a cigarette, Furlan forces out a chuckle. "Are you talking about Kenny or Shadis?"

The frown on Levi's face turns into a wince. "Both," he mutters darkly.

"Hm, but you do skip less now," Isabel notes. "You've not missed a single biology or chemistry class since the beginning of the semester. I can't help but wonder," she draws out thoughtfully, with a grin that is a touch too mischievious for Levi's taste. "If the reason for it is the new addition to our class."

Levi's own cheeks betray him, start to heat up, but he stubbornly refuses to give in to the embaressment and let Isabel know that she hit the sore spot with precise accurasy.

"I don't know what you're talking about," he says, doing his best to make sure that his voice is as gruffy and deadpan as it is humanly possible.

But that's not enough to fool neither Furlan, nor Isabel anyway.

"Oh please," Furlan scoffs. "You don't miss a single class that you share with a new kid. And you're staring at her. A lot."

"I don't think I've ever seen you not looking at her," Isabel joins in. "Honestly, it's a bit creepy, Levi. You're lucky she's so oblivious to everything around her."

"I don't stare," Levi tries to defend himself, hiding his flaiming face by staring resolutely at the ground. He takes one drag of cigarette after another, hoping that it'd quell his nerves. "And I don't even know that kid's name."

"Really? So it's just a coincidance that all your notebooks are covered with little hearts with Hange written inside each and every one of them?"

Levi stutters, nearly choking on a cigarette. "What? I- I would never! I don't write her name, and I do not draw hearts!"

"Yet!" Isabel sing-songs, and, really, never before had Levi felt a more acute desire to throttle his own best (and only) friends.

"Assholes," he mutters sulkingly, refusing to meet their eyes. It would only give them more ammunition for teasing anyway. "I don't have a crush - or whatever it is that you think I have - on that stupid four-eyes. She's just so loud all the time, and it annoys me."

"Oh, so that's why you scowl at her friend so much? You give him such a death stare, I honestly think that one of these days Berner is going to piss himself."

Good, Levi thinks with a resentment he'll never admit to his friends. Berner is not so bad, not bad at all actually, of course he's a bit uptight and Levi's never really spoken with him, but he's one of the few kids in their school, who has never looked down on Levi or tried to call him names, and for that alone, Levi respects him, but the way he practically glued himself to four-eyes since the very first day she arrived at their school irks Levi to no end.

He's by her side all the damn time, they sit close to one another in classes, they eat together, they walk through the hallways side by side. Not that Levi cares, of course, he absolutely does not, but... it is annoying. What is so special about Berner that makes four-eyes hang out with him all the time?

"You know," Isabel murmurs softly, bumping her shoulder against his gently. "You can just go and talk to Hange. She seems friendly enough. And she can't be that picky if she hangs out with Berner of all people. You're way more fun than him, bro! On a good day, anyway."

Wow, Levi thinks with a click of his tongue, rude. But also, not strictly wrong.

"Yeah, you've gotta talk with her, dude!" Furlan agrees, clasping Levi on a back. "Make her notice you!"

"Already did that," Levi admits, squeezing the butt of cigarette between his fingers.

Isabel beams at the revelation. "Really? What did you do?"

"Hm... talked with her and stuff. Showed the way to the biology class."

"Wow! Good job!" Isabel praises, and Levi very nearly preens at it. "What did you say? Give her a compliment?"

"Told a witty joke?" Furlan asks, appearing maybe not as invested as Isabel, but genuinely curious and supportive as well.

"Asked her out on a date?" Isabel adds hopefully.

All the pride he felt at Isabel's approval vanishes, swept away by a huge way of mortification as Levi recalls his first real encounter with four-eyes.

"I... told her that her hearing is as shitty as her eyesight, and maybe... called her an idiot too."

"Levi!" Isabel slaps him on the arm. Hard. "What the hell? What were you thinking?"

Levi sighs, tousling his hair. "I wasn't."

"You kinda fucked it up, dude," Furlan says, voice laced with compassion.

"Yeah, you're lucky she didn't punch you in the face," Isabel remarks, not all sympathetic, but vexed instead. "I totally would have."

"But!" Furlan exclaims with a goofy smile on his face. "Not all hope is lost, my friend. If she didn't punch you and if she'll be willing to talk to you again, then you'll know for sure that she is super into you!"

"Or she's really nice," Levi counters detachedly.

"Well, now you got to do something nice to her," Isabel instructs, somehow managing to sound strict and encouraging at the same time. "Something grand and romantic, something that will make her swoon."

Levi tsks. Isabel makes it seem so easy. Something grand, romantic and that will make four-eyes swoon. As if he knows how to do any of those things. As if he's an expert in them.

Unfortunately, all Levi knows how to do is smoke, curse and skip classes. But, maybe, with the help of his friends - with Furlan's suaveness and Isabel's knowledge of pecularities of romantic relationship (that come mainly from shitty romance books but is already wastly more than Levi could ever know), maybe, he really can pull this off.

To stop just staring at four-eyes, and start speaking to her, perhaps even civilly. He just needs a little practice, and a great deal of luck.

But right now, Levi feels good about this, is hopeful. Embarrasing himself before his recently acquired crush is still miles better than listening to Shadis explain tangent and contangent in his croaky voice anyway.

[locker42]

Bounty Hunter - Death.

Warnings: swearing, violence, injuries.

Pairing: Bellamy Blake x Grounder!reader.

Word count: 3172

Main Masterlist.

Series Masterlist.

You stood beside Octavia, watching as they walked through the gate. You looked at Bellamy, his head was down, blood staining his vest. Even though you were fuming about the whole thing, you couldn’t help but feel the need to wrap your arms around him and bring him comfort. You couldn’t stand seeing the broken look on his face. His eyes caught yours and you knew you had to do something. You stepped forward and started walking towards him, his eyes never leaving yours. If it was any other person, you’d kick and punch, but it was Bellamy. You never knew why you were so drawn to him, what about him exactly that made you throw away your morals and opinions, just to make sure he was alright.

“Are you okay?” You asked him when you reached him, he just shook his head. “I’m fine.”

“No, you’re not. What happened out there?” He just looked at you with an unreadable face, but his eyes were telling a different story. “I’m sorry.” He said and walked passed you. You turned to see Pike walking in with an almost happy face, unlike the others.

“Lock it up.” He ordered, then stood on top of a container. “Everybody, listen up. Twenty four hours ago, you elected me your Chancellor.” He said, drawing everyone’s attention. “Every action I’ve taken since, and every action I will take, will be to achieve one sacred goal. The creation of a self-sustaining, prosperous and safe Arkadia.” He said, making the crowd around you cheer, you shook your head. “This morning, on a muddy field, out people payed tribute to those who have been taken from us by sending a massage to the Grounders.” You saw Lincoln coming to stand beside you and Octavia, you turned to look at him and saw a disgusted face, similar to yours. “This land is ours now!” The crowed cheered. “Resist and you will met by force. Fight and you will be greeted by death. Today is a new beginning. Mark it down, remember it. Just like the Grounders will remember it.” He finished, and the crowd cheered for him, cheered for violence and cruelty.

“This is bullshit.” You said, shaking your head and walking away, but a hand caught your arm. You turned to see Lincoln, a look of pain on his face, you knew he felt the same as you, the same pain for your people who were slaughtered. You took a deep breath and looked toward Bellamy, he was already watching you, but looked away when Pike walked in front of him, joining him.

You spotted Kane walking towards the entrance and followed him. “Kane!” You called, making him turned around. “Please tell me you have a plan. We can’t let this go on.”

“I do, meet me outside the Chancellor’s office, bring Lincoln.” He said and walked away. You quickly walked to Lincoln, grabbing his arm and saying nothing. “Chit laik yu doing?” What are you doing? He asked you.

“No Trig, remember?” You said angrily and continued dragging him to the office.

“Where are we going?” He asked once you got closer. “Kane has a plan, he asked me to bring you and meet him at the Chancellor’s office.” You explained. You waited for a few seconds before Kane showed up.

“Good, you’re both here.” He said and stood beside you.

“What are we supposed to do?” You asked.

“Just follow my lead.”

You didn’t have time to ask more questions because the door opened, revealing Bellamy. He froze when your eyes locked. “He’s ready for you.” He said and looked down, starting to walk away but Lincoln stopped him.

“What the hell happened out there?”

“We did what we had to do.” He replied, eyes not focusing on anything.

“Wake up.” Kane stepped in front of him. “You attacked an army that was here to help us. You murdered innocent people. Is that who you are now? You thought you couldn’t live with yourself after Mount Weather? Well, you’ve just started a war that will kill us all.”

“You need to wake up.” Bellamy said. “And don’t tell me the difference between Azgeda and Trikru.” You saw Lincoln’s hands ball into fists, his anger ready to unleash. You wanted to stop him, to place your hand on his and relax him, but you’d be lying if you said you weren’t as angry as he was. “Trikru killed 37 of my friends before you even touched the ground.” Bellamy said, making Lincoln turn to him with a face of shock and anger. “We didn’t start anything. They did.” He finished.

“They?” Lincoln asked, stepping forward, making Bellamy turn to him. “You know what I mean.” He said, making Lincoln even angrier. He stepped closer to him. “I used to.” He said and walked away.

Kane turned to you. “Go after him, I’ll keep you updated.” You nodded and glanced at Bellamy before walking away, taking the same route as Lincoln. He was walking toward the wall, leaning his back on it.

“Emo don frag op ai kru, landed raun a territory dei de nou theirs. Emo were ones chon threatened yumi, nou moun edei raun.” They killed my people, landed in a territory that was not theirs. They were the ones who threatened us, not the other way around. He snapped and balled his fists again. This time, you did stop him.

“Linkon. Chek au ai.” Look at me. You said and placed your hands on his shoulders. “Dison laik nou eno, oso still yu don hope. Kane has a geimbreika, he na help yumi. Ba ai gaf yu gon stay focused, dula op nou let bilaik anger get au kom control. Channel em en kep in em , yu na gaf em. Ba nou nau.” This is not the end, we still have hope. Kane has a plan, he will help us. But I need you to stay focused, do not let your anger get out of control. Channel it and keep it, you will need it. But not now.

You saw his body start to relax before he nodded. “Chof. Ai laik fiya gon Belomi, ai get in yu gifa in gon em.” Thank you. I’m sorry for Bellamy, I know you care for him.

“Ai dula op, ba em does nou change chit he don dula.” I do, but it doesn’t change what he did. You said and looked away, thinking about your words. What he did really changed how you felt about him? No. You knew how much he cared for Octavia, you knew that he thought this was the way to protect her and to erase his guilt, but it wasn’t. And it was your job to make him see that. You stayed only for him and you intended to keep staying for him.

“As much as ai hofli na angry gon em, he has a good heart, en ai hope u na na able gon make em mafta op em. En nou chit Pike ste telling em.” As much as I may be angry at him, he has a good heart, and I hope you will be able to make him follow it. And not what Pike is telling him. Lincoln said, making you look back at him, your eyebrows raised.

“Ai hope krei seintaim, fou he na dula op something he na regret rest kom em life.” I hope so too, before he’ll do something he will regret for the rest of his life. You shook your head before you could drown in your thoughts. “Kom op ona, Abbi asked ai gon gyon au ai op em.” Come on, Abby asked me to go see her. You said and started walking away, hearing Lincoln’s footsteps behind you.

You walked into medical, Abby coming to stand in front of you. “Good, for once you actually listened to me.” She said before motioning you to sit on one of the beds. “Take off your jacket, it’s time for your stitches to come off.” You did as she asked, taking off your jacket and placing it beside you. She inspected your stitches before going to grab whatever it is she needed. You turned to look at all the sick people in the room, your face turned down. Abby came back and started pulling the stitches out. “Tell me if I’m hurting you.” She said and you nodded.

A few guards walked into the room, one of them pulling the blanket off of a man and pulling him up. You frowned, then looked over to Pike and Bellamy who entered the room after them.

Abby walked over to Pike. “What are you doing? These are sick people.” She snapped at him. You stood up from the bed, watching the two interact. “You can’t just throw them out into the cold.”

“They’re not.” He said, eyes moving to glance at you as you stepped forward. “They’re being Interned.”

You looked at Bellamy, but his eyes weren’t on you, they weren’t even on Pike or Abby, they were focused on the people that were being thrown out of their beds, made to walk although the couldn’t even speak. You recognized the look he had, it was the same look he gave you when he said he was sorry after returning from the slaughter. He felt guilty, but he didn’t show it.

“What?” Abby asked in disbelief.

You saw Lincoln coming to stand beside you, glaring at Pike. “Lincoln,” Bellamy said to him, “you don’t want to be here right now.” He said, making you look at him with surprise. It felt as if every word he said since he came back weren’t his, it was like someone put them in his mouth. His voice wasn’t his and his face was still, emotionless.

Lincoln stepped forward, glaring at Pike. “We asked them to come here.” He said in a strained voice.

“We can’t spare the supplies.” Pike said.

A guard pulled a woman from her bed, her eyes were closed and it was clear she was in no condition to move. “Denea.” Lincoln said, stepping forward.

“Lincoln, no.” Abby said as the guard put his hand on his gun, the other one pulling Denea from the bed.

“She is too sick to move.” You said and stepped forward, getting in the guard’s face. He looked back at Denea. “Looks like she’s moving just fine to me.” He said shrugging.

“Gilmer,” Bellamy stepped forward, “back off.” He turned to Abby. “Abby, why did you bring her here?” He asks her, making your eyes roll.

“She needed to take out my stitches, you got a problem with that?” You bit back, now glaring at Bellamy, but was distracted by Denea collapsing to the floor. You stepped forward, wanting to help her but Gilmer pushed you back forcefully. You pushed him back, making his back hit the adage of the bed. He glared at you and punched you in the side, you unhealed wound burning, making you fall back and groan in pain, putting your hand on it.

“Don’t you fucking touch her.” Lincoln said and before punching him in the face, knocking him to the ground and climbing on top of him, hitting him. “Lincoln-“ Bellamy tried to stop him but he turned and elbowed him in the face. For a second, you forgot about the pain in your side and everything that was happening and looked at Bellamy, concern written on your features. Lincoln got up and walked to Bellamy, backing him towards the wall.

“Lincoln, stop.” You said, not wanting for what you knew was about it happen to happen. You ignore the surprised look Bellamy sent you and walked forward, placing your hand on Lincoln’s shoulder.

“Lincoln!” Abby said, finally drawing his attention away from Bellamy. He eyes turned to Denea who was will laying on the floor, then at Pike who was pointing a gun to her head. The anger you tried to hold in, the anger you’ve been feeling throughout this whole mess with Pike, suddenly bursting. You walked to Pike, punching the guard who was trying to stop you and pulled out your knife, pressing it against Pike’s throat. “You kill her, I kill you.” You snarled.

“Stop, step back, please. You don’t want to do this.” Bellamy said, stepping passed Lincoln to place his hand on your shoulder. But all you saw was red. “Fuck off, Blake, you have no say in this.” Yoy snapped at him before turning back to Pike. “Put the gun down, Pike, because I will kill you.”

“Just like you killed that assassin? He was the enemy, I’m not-“

“You are!” You yelled, cutting him off. “You are locking up sick, innocent people who are only here because you told them you would help them.”

“I never invited them here, Kane did. And he’s not in charge anymore, I am. And if you have a problem with that, then you can go with them.” He said, stepping closer to you, your knife pressing harder to his throat.

“Not before I kill you.” You said and moved the life slightly aside to slash his throat and finally out on end to this, but a guard came up behind you and before you could react, he pushed a shock baton to your back, making your grip on the knife loosen and you fell to your knees. The guard pulled out his gun to shoot you but Pike stopped him.

“Don’t, she will be executed for her crimes, but not now. Take them to lockup, him too.”

The guard pulled you to your feet, then punching you in the face, in your dazed state you fell back, you side hitting the edge on the bed, making you cry out in pain.

“That’s enough.” Bellamy snapped and pushed him back, making his way to you. You were still leaning heavily on the bed, panting in pain. “Are you okay?” He asked you and placed his hand on your back, ready to help you. “I’m fine. Get your hands off of me.” You said and pushed him back as hard as you could, which wasn’t that hard due to your state. Lincoln stepped forward, walking passed Bellamy to help you up. A guard went to stop him but Bellamy put his hand on his chest. “Let him help her.”

You looked at him, but didn’t glare at him. Instead, you tried to reach out to him and sent him a grateful look, to which he returned with a nod, his face softening for a second.

He helped you down the hallway as you heard shouts of his name from behind you. “Lincoln! Lincoln!” Octavia came running to you. “What happened?” She asked.

“I’m okay. Don’t fight this.” He said and gave her a reassuring look before being pushed down the hallway. “He’s right.” Bellamy said from beside Octavia, but she ignored him. “Lincoln, what the hell is going on?” He couldn’t answer her as he was pushed into the cage, making you almost fall, but he tightened his grip on you. He turned to Bellamy, now glaring at him from behind bars.

“I saw what you did to Lexa’s army.” You heard her faintly. “Bellamy, you killed everyone!” She yelled making you and Lincoln step forward, now more interested in the conversation between the two siblings. He whispered something to her, but whatever it was only angered her more. “What’s wrong? You’re not proud of massacring an army that here to help us?”

They whispered around more before he grabbed her arm, leading her out of the room. Lincoln helped you sit down on one of the benches.

“Laik yu kei?” Are you okay? He asked you, eyes falling to your stomach. You nodded. “Ai laik ku, ba ai laik joken angry.” I’m fine, but I’m fucking angry. You said, your leaning your elbows on your knees. Lincoln sat down beside you, putting a comforting hand on your back. “Kep in dei de anger, oso na fig au a edei au.” Keep that anger, we will find a way out. You smiled as he repeated your words form earlier.

“Copy cat.” You said, making him chuckle. “Em na kei, Linkon. Em yumi briyon.” She’ll be okay, Lincoln. She’s smart.

He nodded, keeping his head down. You sat in the cell for what felt hours. You laid on the floor, then started pacing, then sat back on the bench. At some point, Abby came to bandage your stomach properly, and then it was back to pacing the cell. To say you were bored would be an understatement. Your anger was still boiling inside you, and you knew it would be a matter of time before you did something reckless. So you tried to focus your thoughts on Bellamy. Before all of that’s happened, back in Mount Weather. That place held many awful memories, but it was where you really met Bellamy. Your mind went back to the both of you, sitting on the cold floor, waiting for Maya to bring you the schematics.

“Rest, I’ll look out.”

You could almost feel his arms around you, could almost smell his scent. You wanted to hold him so bad, to run your hand through his hair and to see his smile. Fuck, you haven’t seen him smile since you parted at Mount Weather right before the attack. It seemed like all emotion was gone from his face since he went under Pike’s rule. You missed him, the old Bellamy. And you hoped you could make him see the right way, to make him smile again. You got up and started pacing again, trying to shut out your thoughts.

“Careful.” You heard from behind you, turning to see Miller standing on the other side of the bars. “This one doesn’t like to be chained up.” He said while looking at you. You rolled your eyes, not giving him any other response but glaring at him. “You boyfriend’s not here to save your ass this time. He finally saw you for who you are, nothing but a worthless Grounder.”

You walked forward, keeping your glare. He looked at the guard beside him before opening the small door, passing you a small bottle of pills. “It’s from Abby.” He explained. “For Denea.” You nodded, taking the bottle from him. “It’s nice to see you, Miller.” You smiled. “Yeah, you too.” You walked to Denea, pulling out one pill and handing it to her. “Em ste kom Abbi, em na help.” It’s from Abby, it will help. You told her. She nodded and swallowed the pill. “Chof.” Thank you. She said. You nodded and got up, walking to the wall and sliding down. You felt yourself growing tired and decided that if you were going to be here until you die, then might get some rest while at it. So you took your jacket, using it as a pillow. You stared at the ceiling, sighing, waiting for death yet again.

[writersblockedx]

A Runaway, Chapter Two

Pairing - Geralt x Reader, Jaskier x Reader Summary - With nowhere else to go, the reader is forced to sleep on it and hope one of them miraculously wake up with a plan. Warnings - Mentions of death, mentions of violence Words - 1.7K

Series Masterlist Main Masterlist

They were both asleep, she was sure of it. The sound of Jaskier's light snore made that clear and the fact that Geralt hadn't made a grunt or a huff in at least an hour suggested he as well had drifted into sleep. But despite how Y/n's body yearned for a much needed rest, she forced her eyes open.

Only once she was certain the two boys were sleeping, she gathered herself. The girl moved quietly. The sound of trig snapping or the rustling of leaves was sure to wake the Witcher and his enhanced hearing. So she moved carefully and slowly. Most of their things had been left in the back of the cart - a cart of which Y/n had realised was stolen from the town they were last in. And while they didn't have many valuables, they had what was needed to survive.

So the girl went searching, well stealing. It wasn't that she believed the two boys had ill intentions, but she thought they didn't have any intention at all. They barely knew what they were doing and could barely wrap their head around her very existence. Which led Y/n to believe she'd be better on her own.

"What are you doing?" Geralt's voice spoke in a low tone out from the shadows of the night.

Shit. Y/n dropped the dagger she had been reaching for and slowly turned to face the white-haired man. "Stealing from the supplies that you also stole." She answered. There was no point in lying to him. He wasn't stupid and he wasn't often lied to.

"That your plan was it?" He asked her.

"A better plan than yours." Or lack there off.

Geralt huffed and took a cautious stepped closer. One of which Y/n had watched intently. "I said we'd figure it out in the morning."

"I could be dead by morning." She argued. If this target on her back was as big as Geralt expressed, then it was only a matter of time before a hoard came looking for her. And there was only so much the Witcher could protect her from.

"I wouldn't let that happen."

Y/n smiled falsely at that as she took the next step forward, stern in her eyes. "Careful, Witcher, you shouldn't go around making promises you can't fulfil." She was sure he was a strong man who had killed many a monster in his time, but there was no telling where the girl ended up right now.

"You're more likely to get killed out there alone." He pointed out. And as much as Y/n wanted to argue with him, he was right. She was stuck in a world she didn't know and with people who didn't know her. She had nothing, stripped down to her wits and strength. If she wasn't careful, than that wouldn't be enough for her survival.

Still, the girl held her head up high as she faced the Witcher. "I have dealt this long without the help from a monster hunter, I'm sure I can keep going." Her words were almost spat back in Geralt's face as she went to finally leave.

Y/n didn't get far; before she could even take another step, his hand was gripping at her wrist. She was forced to turn and face him again. "Stay." For a moment, the girl thought that was all Geralt had to say. "And maybe I'll forget about the fact you were planning on taking all our supplies and running."

In the end, her expression softened and she agreed. Whether that was a mistake or not, she wasn't sure yet.

By morning, the only one who seemed ready for the day was Jaskier. He was the only one who had gotten a decent nights sleep. After the situation, between Y/n and Geralt, the man refused to let himself drift into sleep, scared that once he awoken the girl would be gone.

"Don't you just love the sun raise?" Jaskier practically sung as he stood, starring back at the sun. "It's just so inspiring, I could write millions of songs about it." He went on.

Y/n raised her brows as she listened to him, chewing on the leftover food. "I'm sure you could." She quirked, more to herself than in respond to the bard.

Yet still, he found it his place to question her on it. "What's that suppose to mean?"

She smiled at him and his almost demand. "It only means that I've known you for only 24 hours, and you write songs about everything." The girl giggled as she stood from the ground she had been seated at. "But, no, it's a good thing. Have a creative outlook at all."

Jaskier stiffened in realising her words were nothing but sarcasm and jabs at himself. "You." He pointed at the girl, almost pressing the tip of his finger into her eyes. "Should be drowning me in compliments right now after, you know, almost murdering me!"

She giggled once more, taking a step closer to the boy. "Or maybe, you should keep in mind the fact that if I had almost killed you once, surely I'd be able to do it again." The girl paused, watching as Jaskier's expression moulded into one of regret and almost horror. "And, maybe, who knows, next time, I'll actually succeed."

The boy was left speechless. Well, he was left speechless for a couple of moments. He wasn't really the speechless type. "Gods you are so scary." Yet he still looked at her in awe. Of course though, as Jaskier does, he went on. "But it's so hot." And for a final time that morning, Y/n laughed. She pattered the shoulder of the boy gently before going in search of his other half.

Geralt had wondered away from the other two, in need of some silence to collect his morning thoughts. He knew if he wasn't to come up with some plan soon, Y/n was sure to try and flee again. And Geralt would let her. At that point, he couldn't blame her.

"Hate to disrupt what seems like such a deep thought, but I must ask if you're any further with this plan from last night?" Y/n started as she joined the side of the Witcher who looked across the sea of trees and dirt.

In honesty, Geralt had spent all night tossing around some different kinds of plans. Yet none of them seemed to work in his mind. There was a lot of missing information - some of which he couldn't be sure the princess even had. "What do you remember from when you were last in your world?" He questioned, dismissing what the girl had just asked him.

She thought on it for a moment, dropping her gaze from the Witcher. Geralt noted the way her expression had fallen and the way she seemed almost hesitant to continue. "I was on my way to the North. I can't remember much but someone, a group of people I think, attacked. Even my guards couldn't stop them." She recalled, the memorises seeming to leave a sting at her chest.

"What are you going up North for?" Geralt queried.

"A wedding." It seemed funny to her now. Getting married while she stood on ground that wasn't meant for her feet. "My wedding. The one which was meant to reunited the elves and the humans finally." Once again, Geralt was reminded of how different these two worlds seemed to be. But then again, they never were going to be similar.

"I'm guessing from that look on your face, you weren't particularly fond of this wedding?" He assumed. From what Geralt had already seen of the girl, she certainly didn't seem like the perfect wife material.

Y/n could only scoff in response to the Witcher, "That's an understatement." She said. "You have no idea how much I begged my parents. I had never even met the boy."

"And, I assume you weren't the only one not fond of the marriage?" Geralt pushed, insinuating that the group that attacked were probably humans displeased with the fact their kind was about to be joined with the elves.

"I don't know who attacked us, Geralt." Y/n answered in honesty. "I never got to see their faces, or whether they were human or elvan."

"And that was your last memory?"

Once more, the girl's eyes fell from his, recalling what she could barely remember. "I was running. I think I had slipped out from the carriage as they were taking out the riders. But all I remember was running. Then it went black, my head hurt and then I woke up here. Some butcher and his wife had found me, took care of me." She paused and, this time, looked directly into Geralt's yellow pupils. "Not even an hour later, their home was raided. They were both murdered and I was once again running." Which had left her here, in the safety of a Witcher and a bard she was scared could be next.

Geralt turned the girl completely, only inches from one another. "I know you might not believe me, but I promise you, I will keep you safe." He spoke.

And while Y/n wanted nothing more than to challenge him on that, she found herself settling into his words. "Still doesn't sound like a plan, Witcher." She commented with a half smile.

"I have a plan." She'd believe that when she saw that.

Tagslist - @srhxpci @beeblisss @mikariell95 @alex-sulli @burntghoost​ @miscreantsnopossoms​

Please let me know whether you would like to be added or removed to the taglist for this series.

[bumblesimagines]

Hainofa Chilnes

Request: Yes or No

Thinking about how Lincoln was 20+ and Octavia was 17 when they got together. The title is supposed to mean sum in Trig. I'm sure someone will figure it out.

This means they're speaking Trig

~

"300 hundred dead, (Y/N). 300 hundred of our people." You turned away from the balcony, looking at Lexa. She stared down at the table, features tense. Her knuckles were beginning to turn white from how hard she gripped the table. You approached her, placing a hand on her back to calm her.

"Lexa, get some rest."

"Blood must have blood, (Y/N). The people they killed, the people they burned alive... They had families. Families that'll want justice." Lexa looked at you, a fire in her eyes.

"I'll go check on Indra and Anya. I'll make sure things are being handled and if they have a plan, I can help them."

"You know what these people are capable of-"

"Yes, I know. I've been trained by Indra, Titus, and you. I can protect myself, Lexa. It's not your job to protect me anymore. I'm an adult." You spoke softly, gently taking her hand. Lexa swallowed, gaze softening. Her shoulders slowly relaxed.

"I know and... It scares me." Lexa breathed out, letting out a deep sigg. She met your eyes again, smiling and placing a hand on your cheek. 

"Come back as soon as possible. If you can-"

"Find as much information on these people as possible while making sure not to get hurt. I know, Lexa." You pressed a kiss to her forehead.

"If you get hurt-"

"I won't but if I do, try not to burn down the forest." You grinned, grabbing your sword and sliding it in its sheath. Lexa rolled her eyes, fighting back a smile as she dismissed you with a flick of her wrist. You stepped out of her room, heading down the hall. You spotted Titus as he turned the corner, giving him a nod.

"Titus."

"Child."

"When are you gonna stop calling me that?"

"When you stop acting like one. Where are you headed?" Titus questioned, eyeing your attire. 

"Tondc. I want to help anyone who needs it against this new threat." You responded. Titus hummed, nodding.

"Be careful of the Reapers. It'd be a shame if we lost you." 

"All that training gone to waste."

"Precisely." You scoffed, a smile tugging at your lips. Titus patted your arm, resuming down the hall. 

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

You listened to the sound of birds chirping, smiling softly. You were glad whoever was following you hadn't attacked yet. They were inexperienced, stepping on twigs and making the brush rustle. Indra and Titus would've had your head if you had been as sloppy as them. You reached Tondc, sliding off your horse and walking down the path as Indra and her men headed out. 

"(Y/N), what a lovely surprise," Indra called, voice monotone but you saw the way her eyes lit up at the sight of you. "We could use a hand." You hummed, letting one of the men take the reins and lead your horse away. 

"Who's my follower?"

"A dead girl," Indra responded in english, giving a nod to her men. You turned your head, just in time to see the girl turn and bolt as some of Indra's men chased after her.

"Octavia Kom Skaikru. She's persistent, I'll give her that. She's Lincoln's girlfriend." Indra explained as you faced her once more. Your lips parted to speak but Indra beat you to it, eyes narrowing.

"He's a traitor, (Y/N)."

"Indra-"

"How's Heda?" Indra interrupted, moving forward. You fell in line, smiling down at Artigas as he gently bumped against you. 

"Lexa's fine. If things get worse, she might just come down and take care of things herself. Anya has yet to report back to us so... Here I am." 

"Our savior." Artigas cooed playfully, chuckling as you ruffled his hair. 

"Where exactly are we going?" You asked, moving forward to walk alongside Indra. 

"To get our people back. Nyko and Lincoln were taken by the Reapers." Indra responded, glancing at you. 

"Shit."

"Exactly." Indra let an amused smile slip before it was replaced by her stoic face. 

The walk was long and boring but with the return of the sky girl, it got interesting. You could see her pass by, using trees as cover. She was quick and smart but too obvious.

"You were right." You said quietly. "She's persistent but brave. There's a reason Lincoln likes her so-"

"Don't worry. She'll be joining us soon." Indra moved to a place where everyone could rest before going over the plan. You turned your head, snorting as the bushes rustled. 

"So, I'm the bait?" Artigas asked.

"No, you're a warrior. She's the bait." Indra turned her head in the direction of Octavia. You watched her rise, a nervous look in her eyes yet her words said the opposite.

"I am not afraid." 

"You will be." Indra looked away from her as you approached her. Octavia took a step back, grip on her sword tightening. You reached a hand up. 

"I'm a friend of Lincolns. If he trusts you, it's for a reason." You smiled softly. Octavia's shoulders relaxed, glancing at Indra and the others before she grabbed your hand, carefully stepping through the brush. You released her hand and walked back to the tree you had been leaning against. 

"We know their path. You'll be the distraction. Easy, right?" Indra cocked a brow. Octavia swallowed, nodding as she glanced at you. She trusted too easily. Or perhaps she trusted Lincoln too much. 

"Let's move," Octavia watched Indra walk away before looking at you. 

"How do you know Lincoln?"

"I was raised in Tondc for most of my childhood. Lincoln is a childhood friend. I'll try to see if I can help him." Octavia let out a sigh of relief, nodding. 

"Thank you." 

"Don't thank me just yet." You quickened your pace, catching up with Indra. Indra didn't have to speak for you to know she'd be giving you the lecture of a lifetime once you were alone. 

"Octavia Kom Skaikru." Indra stopped and faced the girl. "Time for you to be bait." 

"Alright." Octavia swallowed, laying in the trail. You and the others hid in the brush, waiting for them to get close enough. Once they did, everyone sprung up, taking out the Reapers. Octavia took off the hoods of those captured, getting to the last one. 

"Nyko." You quickly approached him, cutting the rope and letting him go. 

"Where's Lincoln? Was he with you?" Octavia asked. Nyko gave a solemn stare and shook his head. Octavia stumbled back, eyes watering as her breath quickened. 

"We'll find him." You assured her, continuing to cut the rest of the people free. You gently grabbed Octavia by the shoulders, giving them a reassuring squeeze.

"You proved yourself, Octavia. You helped us get our people back and for that, you'll live." You told her. Octavia's brows furrowed, head raising. She turned to look at Indra, exhaling softly when Indra nodded in agreement. She looked back at you, lips trembling.

"Thank you." 

"(Y/N), let's go." You glanced back at Indra, sighing. 

"I'll take her back home. I'll join you later." You called back. Indra's brows rose. You'd be getting the lecture of a lifetime.

"You don't have to-"

"You might encounter more of my people on your way. It's better I go with you." You explained, giving her arm a squeeze. Octavia gave a tired smile, nodding.

"You're definitely Lincoln's friend." You chuckled, giving a light shrug.

"I think he learned a thing or two from me." You winked, motioning for her to lead the way. Octavia turned around, beginning to walk forward.

"Are you and Indra close?" She asked, hands raising to tie some of her hair back. 

"She's my... adoptive mother." 

"Oh.." Octavia frowned. "Are your parents...?"

"Dead? Possibly. I don't... I don't remember them. They were Trikru but I was sent to Indra to train when I was little. I guess my parents chose not to tag along." 

"I know what it's like. My mother was floated," Octavia told you. "Because of me."

"Floated?"

"Killed. Back in space, you couldn't have more than one child. Biologically, anyways. Some people adopted those who lost their parents. I lost my mom and was arrested." You furrowed your brows, glancing at her.

"What for?"

"I have an older brother named Bellamy." You hummed softly, nodding.

"I'm sorry." Octavia shook her head.

"I've.. I've come to terms with it. At least I knew her. I have good and bad memories of her." Octavia gently touched your arm. "Maybe your parents are alive. You could look for them." 

"I doubt my father wasn't among the warriors your people burned." Octavia looked away, a frown on her face as she kept her gaze on the ground. 

"Sorry-"

"I don't blame you for the acts of your people. Innocents don't deserve to suffer for actions they didn't commit." You cut her off, watching her shoulders slump in relief. 

"I'll make sure to tell my people-" The sound of gunshots captured your attention. You and Octavia fell silent, listening to the sounds. 

"This way." Octavia grabbed your wrist, pulling you along without a second thought. You came across a hill, seeing the arrows being shot at a group of people by the cliff. Octavia quickly reached for the horn, fumbling a bit before blowing into it. The arrows stopped and Octavia's people were able to get back to what they were doing. 

"Octavia-"

"Come on." She went down the hill, pushing through the bushes until she saw a guy and girl being pulled up. 

"Bellamy.." She breathed, a smile breaking out on her face. Bellamy rushed forward, embracing Octavia. 

"I should get going." You said, noticing others eyeing you. In their eyes, you were a threat.

"Who are you?"

"This is (Y/N), a friend of Lincolns," Octavia explained, pulling back. "He helped me."

"Where are our people?" You blinked, brows furrowing. The guy stepped closer, fists clenching as his eyes narrowed.

"Your people?" 

"They were taken-"

"Finn, he doesn't know." Octavia cut in, glaring at him. Finn's features hardened, glaring at Octavia before he turned to Bellamy. Bellamy placed a hand on Octavia's back.

"I haven't been here since your people arrived. I've got a life outside these woods but I could figure out where they are. It'd take some time though." You offered, shrugging. Not as if you had anything better to do.

"We don't have time," Finn muttered, turning away. Bellamy cleared his throat, stepping into your line of sight.

"Thank you for helping my sister. I'm Bellamy." He extended his hand. You glanced at Octavia before taking it. He seemed grateful to have Octavia by his side. It reminded you of Lexa.

"Shaking hands with the enemy. Great idea." The one with light eyes said, scoffing.

"I'm not your enemy. If anything, I want peace. We don't need a war but if you provoke me then a war you'll get." You responded, raising a brow. "Is that what you want?"

"No, no, none of us want that. Isn't that right, Murphy?" Bellamy sent his friend a sharp look. He turned back towards you, gaze softening. 

"Good. I'll see you around, Octavia. If I find Lincoln, I'll send him your way." You stepped back but a hand clutched your arm. You looked down at Bellamy's hand.

"Sorry." He apologized quietly, releasing you. "We could use your help. If our people see that not all Grounders are savages-"

"If that's all your people think of us then maybe the problem is them, not us. Even if I wanted to, I can't. I've already helped enough and if Heda finds out, I might never be allowed to come back. Your leader will have to test their luck with Indra and Anya." You offered an apologetic smile.

"Good luck."

[ptergwen]

only you and me

w/c: 6.7k

warnings: angst, mentions of weed, and some swearing

summary: whenever peter tries to tell you how he feels, harry gets in the way

a/n: ahhhh hi my loves! my mini writing break is over :,) life has been just a mess for me and i’ve been way more critical than usual about my work but i’m doing a little better and ready to get back into everything! this helped me a lot so i’m excited to share it with y’all <3 it’s also my first time writing harry osborn so lmk how i did lmaooofwfjj but yeah pls enjoy

-

“dude, she’s right there! just tell her!” ned whisper yells to peter, elbowing him for emphasis. they’re hidden behind a wall to watch you at your locker. you’re grabbing books while betty rants to you and mj rolls her eyes. “not now. she looks... busy,” peter gulps, gaze trailing down your body. he always finds excuses to put off telling you how he feels.

or rather, excuses find him. something comes up every time he gets the courage to do it. he has no idea why he’s so scared because he’s pretty sure you like him back. pretty sure. there are a few reasons why you might not. also, plenty why you might. you stay up late texting most nights, and you’ve even flirted a couple of times. it never fails to make peter blush. he trips over his words whenever he tries to flirt back.

he’s had feelings for you since the first time you two hung out alone. none of your other friends could make it, but you happily took him up on his offer to come over. you grinned through his whole apartment tour, asked about may and what she does. when peter showed you his room, you even complimented his movie posters, much to his surprise.

“really? you don’t think they’re, like, dorky?”

“no, peter. your interests aren’t dorky. everyone likes what they like.”

and, he liked you. he knew it from that point on. you’d know it too if the universe wouldn’t keep stopping him from saying that.

“she’s so...” peter pauses for a second. him and ned watch you pull betty in by her shoulders as if you’re going to kiss her. she dodges you, mj pushing her back, all three of you giggling about it before you grab betty’s hands and give her words of encouragement. “cool,” peter finishes, turning back to ned. “i mean, how she puts herself out there like that.”

“what’s stopping you from doing the same thing?” ned points out with a knowing smile that peter returns. you make it look so easy. whenever you’re comfortable around people, you can let go of any doubts you have. you stop worrying about what they might think and instead do what you want. it’s inspiring to peter, and heart warming getting to be one of the people you’re fully you with.

he wishes he could apply your wisdom himself.

peter shakes his head, staring down at the floor. “oh, you know. anxiety, fear of rejection. that fun stuff.” “so, yourself,” ned concludes, clapping peter’s backpack so hard it makes him stumble forward. betty and mj wave goodbye to you before heading to their first class. you’re still getting your things together at your locker. this is peter’s moment.

“come on, dude! y/n’s not busy anymore. you got this.” ned keeps his hand on peter’s back, adding on, “it’s been a year already.” “half a year,” peter corrects him in a mumble. he’s liked you for a really long time. “ok, i’m going. wish me luck.” he takes a deep breath and focuses in on you. “aw, dude. you don’t need it.” ned gives him one last pat on the back. “good luck, though.” “thanks, man. see you in trig.”

right as peter starts heading over, harry comes up behind you and covers your eyes. you squeal, jumping up and turning to him, laughing as you playfully hit at his chest. he brings you into a hug where your face is buried in his sweater and probably inhaling his super strong, super expensive cologne.

that’s what’s stopping peter, harry freaking osborn. his own friend.

peter quickly loses the tiny bit of confidence ned gave him. he figures it might be better to hold off on his confession and get an early start to class. unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like that’s going to happen. harry has already spotted him and calls him over.

“hey, pete! come give us some love, eh?” harry beams, an arm slung around your shoulders and you smiling up at him. you direct your smile to peter when he slumps his way to your locker. his lips pull into a barely noticeable frown. you notice. “there’s my guy. why so down, sunshine?” harry offers his fist for a fist bump. peter gives it to him, eyes staying on you.

harry osborn. where to begin with such a specimen? he’s the perfect combination of everything you’d want in a guy. he gets good grades, he’s a star player on on the basketball team, nice to everyone and makes you laugh, popular yet fits right into your small group.

he was friends with you before the popular thing. what kicked it off was him making varsity basketball while only being a sophomore. yep, he’s unreal. since then, he’s been balancing his cool life and also hanging with “the nerds,” as he likes to call you. he got his own feelings for you along the way. peter can tell.

he’ll give you rides home, compliment how you look, basically act like your boyfriend without really being it. it absolutely infuriates peter because he doesn’t compare to harry in the slightest. if he were you and had the choice between himself or harry, he would pick harry.

it’s been a factor in why he hasn’t come clean about how he feels yet. he’s not trying to create a love triangle that he doesn’t stand a chance surviving in.

“for real, peter. you good?” you ask him, eyebrows knitted together in concern. “fine,” peter lies and musters up a smile. “i’m just tired. didn’t sleep too good last night.” you’re only more concerned now. this has been happening to him a lot lately. you search for his eyes. “again?”

“aw, man. you need something for it?” harry punches peter’s shoulder and lowers his voice. “i know this kid who-“ “harry, stop.” your words are serious, tone lighthearted. you throw your head back on his arm. “do you really know a kid?” “i’m not telling you,” he says in an overly happy voice, you humming the same way. peter feels like he’s third wheeling.

“i was telling pete.” harry looks at him expectantly, peter’s mouth dropping open while he thinks of what to say. harry likes to mess around. this is a different level, though. “no thanks. i- i shouldn’t. i’m-“ “relax, i don’t know a kid,” harry chuckles and points at peter. “your face right now.” it’s completely flushed. you knock into harry’s side.

“ok, well literally no one laughed. you’re scaring him,” you tell harry sternly. peter tugs tight on one of his backpack straps. he doesn’t feel like he’s third wheeling you two now. he feels like your kid. he’ll never let ned mettle in his love life ever again if this is where it gets him. “he knows i’m kidding, y/n/n. right?” harry checks with peter. you make a face at him that says you aren’t convinced.

he switches his arm from you to peter, drawing him into his side. “look, pete. i’m sorry. the only kid i know who’s selling is chocolates for his band trip.” you’re satisfied with that, grinning at both of them. peter forces a laugh and nods. “no worries, man. i gotta get to class.” “good boy,” harry lets him go. “bye, pete. we’ll see you at lunch,” you remind him. he gives you a tight lipped smile. “see you, y/n/n.”

you and harry continue practically spooning each other as soon as peter is out of sight.

what the hell is going on?

peter is back to being grumpy, plopping down in his seat next to ned. their teacher has the lesson plan pulled up on the smart board. ned looks from it to peter, almost jumping in his seat. “oh, you’re back already? how’d it go?” “it didn’t go,” peter huffs, copying down the aim. he’s only doing it so he doesn’t have to look ned in the eyes while telling him he bailed. again.

“you didn’t do it?” ned repeats, peter writing something about pi and a unit circle in his notebook. he bites the inside of his cheek. “you have to do it at some point,” ned sighs out and picks up his pencil. even he’s getting tired of this, and ned never gets tired of a good friends to lovers moment. “i think she likes harry,” peter says under his breath. “huh?” ned gasps.

peter doesn’t feel like explaining the extremely awkward moment he just finished living. although, it wouldn’t hurt to get a second opinion. “y/n. he came over, and they kept hugging and whatever.” “they always do that,” ned almost scoffs, their trigonometry teacher moving to stand in front of the class. “yeah, but he had his arm around her the whole time we-“

the bell rings and cuts their conversation short. peter struggles to label the unit circle they learn about when his mind is filled to its capacity with images of you and harry all over each other. it’s not daydreaming. this is a nightmare. maybe, he actually will be having sleep problems.

peter’s morning is relatively decent after that. he gets to do an experiment with mj in chemistry, and she lets him take the lead for once. spanish is easy, health is okay, then he has a free period, then it’s lunch. things can only go downhill from here.

he thinks about hiding in the library until it’s over, but it’s the thought of harry eating your face that gets him to drag himself to the cafeteria.

flash is at the head of your table talking to harry when peter gets there. great, now he can’t eat his soggy chicken fingers in peace. “sounds dope. let’s go on the-“ flash stops saying what he was saying and nods at peter. “penis parker, you’re late.” peter takes his seat on your left, harry on your right. you glance over at him to make sure he’s okay. he acts like he doesn’t care, peeling open his milk carton.

“just text me later, man. get outta here,” harry dismisses flash, the two of them doing a bro handshake before he leaves. he’s well aware of his and peter’s history. he keeps them separate for the obvious reasons. peter appreciates it because saying no to flash is nearly impossible. he shouldn’t be so mad at harry, should he? he’s a good friend.

harry’s arm snakes around your waist and brings you closer to him. never mind.

“who’s up for sushi later?” he asks the table, everyone agreeing and saying how awesome that sounds. everyone except peter. you tap his shoulder with a small smile. “what about you, peter? you coming?” he realizes you’re all waiting for him to respond and puts down his milk. “uh, i can’t. homework,” he lamely answers.

“dude, we have homework, too. just do it a little later,” ned suggests, betty laying her head on his shoulder. you share a look with her, your eyes wide and a grin on your lips. that must have been what you were talking about this morning. she asked for boy advice. ned advice. why can’t this crap work out for peter?

“i really can’t. sorry, guys,” peter half heartedly apologizes.

he misses the disappointment that crosses your features because he’s pouting at his lunch again.

“homework, huh?” mj tests him, squinting as she takes a sip of apple juice. harry nudges peter’s side with two fingers. “you still mad about the sleeping thing?” “sleeping thing? what sleeping thing?” betty wonders while ned rests his head against hers. a quiet laugh slips out of you as you lean in to tell her.

“peter said he couldn’t sleep last night, so harry offered him...” you mime rolling a joint. “i said no,” peter clarifies, rolling his eyes at the inevitable teasing he’s about to get. none of you have even smoked besides harry. you’re being annoying about it. “of course you did,” mj sighs and kicks her feet up on the table. “unrelated to what y/n just said... harry, i have insomnia.”

everyone bursts into laughter at that, betty shoving her side and you pulling harry by his torso as he pretends to go into his backpack. peter wants nothing to do with any of this. he usually enjoys joking around with the group, even if it’s at his expense because it’s from a place of love.

today feels like you’re straight up making fun of him. harry might as well invite flash to join in.

“alright, alright, alright. enough of the weed talk,” harry decides, you removing your arms from him and grabbing your coffee. “you’re such a bad influence.” your voice drips with sarcasm. you bend the straw and take a sip while scooting closer to peter. “you really can’t come later? i feel like i’ve barely seen you today.” that’s on harry. “i wish i could, y/n/n,” peter exhales. “i’ll text you later, okay?”

you don’t get to answer because mj tugs on your arm, distracting you from peter. she explains how she has to do an art project on what it means to be a woman and needs help brainstorming ideas. you’re full of them, offering up an interesting perspective for her to use. peter smiles to himself as he listens in. you find a new way to impress him every day.

he should tell you that.

“hey, y/n?” “listen to her! you’re seriously my idol,” betty gushes, so loudly you don’t hear peter. not a single thing has gone in his favor at this table. he gives up.

peter locks himself in his room when he gets home from his overall terrible day. he does homework like he said he would, only taking a break for dinner, giving one word replies to may’s questions about school. he’d much rather be having sushi with you. he would’ve gone if the others didn’t.

after dinner, it’s back to grumbling and scribbling down answers. there’s a knock at peter’s door around ten o’clock, which he assumes is may saying goodnight. “i’ll be done in a few minutes, may! love you.” “it’s y/n,” you reply, the smile clear in your voice. his eyes go comically wide. that’s the last thing he expected to hear. “oh. uh, come in.”

you’re holding a small takeout bag, shutting the door behind you and walking over to his desk. you meet his twinkling eyes in the dim light that hits off his walls. from his open window, you faintly hear cars as they rush by and honk their horns in the distance, accompanied by a fresh breeze. it’s cozy, safe. it’s peter.

“hey. what’re you doing here?” peter questions, leaving his pencil in his binder and shutting it. you shake around the plastic bag. “i saved you a roll.” he bites back a smile, getting up from his chair. “may let me in. she was really chill about it,” you continue and hold out the sushi for him. “it’s a california roll. i wasn’t sure what you wanted, and everyone likes those.”

peter lets his smile spread out and takes the bag from you. “thanks, y/n/n. i was honestly hoping one of you would have leftovers.” you laugh softly, peter setting the bag down on his desk. he scratches the back of his neck. “did you guys have fun?” “yeah. i missed you, though.” you clasp your hands behind your back. “everyone did.”

“i feel bad i didn’t go. just... things felt off today,” peter admits the real reason he stayed home, you letting out a breath. “it was harry, wasn’t it? god, he was being so weird.” your arms drop back to your sides. “there’s a difference between playing around and actually upsetting people.” by people, you mean peter. no one else seemed too bothered by him. “i’m sorry, peter. i tried to make him stop.”

“no, you don’t have to apologize,” peter assures you sweetly, grabbing one of your hands. “it’s not your fault, okay? he probably didn’t realize what he was doing. the jokes landed.” he’s referring to ned, mj, and betty finding harry’s comments hilarious. you lace your fingers with peter’s and frown. “this isn’t like him. maybe he’s stressed about a game.” your gaze drifts off to the side, what you see getting you to perk up.

“is that new?” you ask peter, leading him by his hand over to a poster he put up recently. it’s for 13 going on 30. you showed it to him a couple of weeks ago, and he clearly liked it a lot. any movie that makes it to peter’s wall is a special one. “mhm. i got it literally right after you went home the night we watched,” he chuckles and looks over at you while you study the poster.

you turn to face peter again, keeping your hand tight in his. “were you gonna tell me something earlier? at lunch?” he’s confused for a second, then he remembers your ideas for mj’s art project. the fact that you cared enough to bring it up after all these hours makes his stomach do summersaults in the best way. he shrugs and gives you a smile.

“the stuff you were saying about femininity and how there are so many ways to define it,” peter starts, you grinning back at him, at how he took an interest in what you were saying. “you’re so smart, y/n. you make me wanna be better.” a light pink dusts his cheeks. “peter, you’re a feminist?” you coo, joking but genuinely wondering at the same time. he squeezes your hand. “duh.”

“i thought so,” you nod, taking in the rest of what he said. “you think i’m smart? i trust you because you’re way smarter.” peter pffts in response. “i’m only good at, like, physics. you’re good at things that really matter. smart in that way.” you’re feeling your own face get hot. you swing yours and peter’s hands back and forth. “why are you the nicest person ever?”

the answer to that, may, peeks her head into the room. “hey, kids. it’s getting late.” she notices your intertwined hands and shoots peter a smirk. “i thought you were a cool aunt,” he teases, you sadly letting go of him. “she is. thanks for having me over so late,” you tell may on your way to the door. “oh, stop it. you can come over any time.” she puts a hand on your arm. “thank you so much,” you murmur back.

you walk backwards to the doorway, may leaving you two to say your goodbyes. “wanna hang out only you and me? on friday maybe?” that should make up for everything earlier. “yeah, of course. friday is perfect,” peter agrees and bounces on his feet as excitement takes over him. “thanks again for the sushi.”

“no problem. goodnight.” it’s taking every last bit of power in you to not freak out. “night. text me when you get home.” he presses his tongue into his cheek. you slowly pull the door shut. “ok, i will. bye!” it closes, leaving peter skipping across his room to his bed on one side and you doing a little happy dance on the other.

the next day at school, everything is back to normal. honestly, better than normal. your hangout with peter is tomorrow, and he’s planning on telling he likes you then. he already talked it over with ned. he’s relieved it’s finally happening, especially since him and betty have their own thing. she’ll be taking up most of his free time from here.

your group is spending lunch outside today, lounging across a picnic table, surrounded by trees and the shining sun in a bright blue sky. mj sits on the table and has her feet on the bench, which would usually bug peter to no end. he doesn’t mind this time because it takes up enough room that harry has to sit with ned and betty instead of you. you lean into peter’s side and stab a piece of lettuce from your salad.

“it’s so nice out,” betty sighs, ripping off half her cookie and giving it to ned. “we should ditch.” “oh my god, you sound like harry,” you groan between bites of salad. peter lets out a breathy laugh, you looping your arm through his. he grins down at where you’re linked. harry crosses his own arms over his chest. “she wishes.” betty only nods because her mouth is full of m&m’s.

“nah, seriously. i’d take us out somewhere, but i have practice after school.” he speaks quieter than he normally does, less confident. your theory about him having basketball drama was right. “what did we tell you? talk about the sports shit with your sports friends,” mj complains, sitting back on her hands. she glances at harry over her shoulder and catches ned mouthing you can’t say that.

sitting criss cross, she spins around to face harry, unenthusiastically saying, “what i meant was, you sound upset. what’s wrong?” harry gets into it right away, like he’s been waiting for someone to ask. “coach says there might be a scout at the next game. it’s a really good opportunity even though i don’t have to worry about... college yet.” the word makes him cringe.

“oh, damn. that’s a big deal. scary,” mj snorts, turning back to you and peter. her behavior makes ned internally face palm. “that’s awesome, dude. you’re gonna play amazing like always.” he gives harry a high five, who smiles nervously in response. he’s never nervous. “thanks, bro. you guys wanna come and watch?” he’s never invited you to one of his games before either.

this isn’t a group of friends that likes to spend their weekends in bleachers while angry teens shout around them.

“definitely. we’ll be there to support you, harry,” betty answers for everyone, ned pecking her cheek in satisfaction. mj cusses to herself before replying. “if i absolutely must, sure.” only you and peter haven’t said anything yet. he’s been chewing his lower lip, and you your salad. harry looks between you two hopefully. it’s more so at you, which peter doesn’t like.

“y/n? pete? it would help a lot, i’m serious.” he taps his fingers on the table until one of you speaks up. you’re the one who does. “i’ll go. this is pretty huge, right? congrats.” you reach across the table and squeeze his shoulder while simultaneously tightening your arm around peter’s. he takes that as a cue. “i’ll go, too. happy for you, man.”

though peter isn’t currently in the best place with harry, he should show his support by showing up. it can’t be too bad since the rest of you will be there.

a loud, long chuckle leaves harry as he hops up from his bench and comes to yours and peter’s. he bends over and wraps both of you in a hug from behind at the same time. his arms are around each of your shoulders, holding you so close his cheeks are squished against either of your heads. you giggle at that, peter finding himself laughing along and reaching back to ruffle harry’s hair.

staying mad at him is one of the world’s greatest challenges.

“you’re saints, both of you. my angels.” he kisses the back of your head, then lays one right on peter’s cheek, leaving him blushing red and grinning. “what about the rest of us? i never go to shit like this,” mj huffs and seems genuinely offended. harry wiggles his eyebrows. “you want a kiss?” his offer gets her flustered, which she can’t manage to hide. that’s a first.

“shut up. i’m just saying... never mind.” mj glares at you and peter, ned and betty making kissing noises behind her. “someone change the subject.” peter steps in. “when’s the game, harry?” he asks, harry snapping and waving his finger. “tomorrow! cancel your plans, kiddos.” “like we had any,” betty retorts.

some of you did. that was going to be peter’s hangout with you.

ned smiles sympathetically at peter before betty is getting his attention. you‘re unfazed and rambling to harry how proud you are of him.

did last night mean nothing? was it an empty gesture? were you only doing it out of guilt? peter must have read your visit wrong. he’s been wrong the whole time he’s liked you. you don’t like him back, you pity him. harry is who you’re really interested in.

may always says he should trust his instincts.

peter pulls his arm from yours suddenly, swinging his backpack onto his shoulders. you’re taken back because it’s so out of no where. you stop talking to harry so you can figure out his deal. “where are you going?” “bell’s gonna ring,” peter mumbles and picks up his lunch tray. he heads to the garbage can without another word or goodbye to anyone.

“i’m gonna go check on him,” you tell harry, already getting up from the bench. “you do that,” he acknowledges and calls mj’s name again.

peter tosses his mostly untouched food in the trash, seeing you make your way over from the corner of his eye. he tries to speed walk inside so he doesn’t have to talk to you. you’re too quick, cornering him between the door and brick wall.

“we still have ten minutes,” you state, worry flashing across your face. he’s avoiding you. well, attempting to. “what’s wrong?” peter gulps before saying anything. “my next class is on the other side of the-“ “no,” you cut him off. “what’s really wrong?”

he doesn’t feel like having this discussion. it’s bad enough he came to the realization his feelings are one sided. must he break that down for you so soon?

you toy with your sleeve while you speak because peter doesn’t. “i thought you and harry were fine again. i mean, he kissed you.” peter clenches his jaw so hard he can imagine the sound of it cracking. “it’s not about harry.” “what, then? what the fuck happened?” your sleeves are now balled in your fists. you hate it when peter does this angsty routine.

he keeps his voice low and calm so he doesn’t come off as jealous or hurt. he’s both of those things. “the game is tomorrow. friday. when we were supposed to hang out.” you meet peter’s eyes with nothing but remorse in yours. “i... i forgot,” is all you have to say.

you feel awful. he’s had a tough couple of days, and you fell through on your promise to cheer him up.

“clearly,” peter remarks, voice sharp. the way you’re looking at him makes him think he won’t like what’s coming. “peter, we have to go,” you almost whine. “i’m really sorry, i am, but this is a big night for harry. he needs us there.” peter stays silent. you’re twisting the knife deeper into him with every word. “i wouldn’t be cancelling if this wasn’t important.”

now you’re cancelling?

you reach for peter’s hand, but he shoves it into his pocket. that stings for you and him. “please, peter. we’ll hang out at the game, i swear.” this is the last chance you’ve got, so you pile it on. “harry won’t even be there, technically. he’ll... he’ll be on the court.” peter hadn’t thought about that. he lets himself unclench, starting to see the appeal. you add one more thing to lighten the mood and persuade him.

“i’ll buy you popcorn, all you can eat.” it’s that easy. cracking a smile, peter accepts. he’ll deal with his unresolved, unreciprocated feelings after he stuffs his face, courtesy of you. “you better. i’m gonna need it for this long ass game.” your face lights up, grabbing his wrist in both hands.

“so, you’ll come?” “i’ll be there,” he confirms. you throw your arms around his neck. he laughs into the hug and holds you by your middle. “i promise this’ll be the first and last game we ever go to,” you say and mean it. harry is lucky you’re even suffering through this a first time. “thank god,” peter exhales, resting his chin on your head.

that interaction leaves peter confused as hell. you’re crushing his mind and soul one minute, then hugging him the next. you were making him feel so special lasts night, and treating harry the same way today. it’s so jumbled that he isn’t sure if he’s in the friend zone or something more zone.

there are a ton of mixed signals coming his way, and he sucks at reading people as is.

he can’t take another second of this. he’d rather you come out and say you like harry already because it’s torture. knowing you don’t want him in that way would at least eliminate the possibility of anything happening between you two, and allow him to stop driving himself insane.

he’d be able to stop taking it out on harry, too.

the hold you have on peter, that you’re oblivious to, rules his every thought and decision. he’s constantly analyzing what you say to him, debating whether or not your affection is simply platonic. it’s been half a year of this madness, the night of harry’s game blurring every line so much more.

your group arrives a bit early to find seats and hype harry up before he plays. peter gets there after all of you because he’s not exactly in a rush to watch sweaty guys be aggressive. there’s only one upside, which is spending the night with you... and everyone else.

he steps into the gym that’s filling up fast with family members, friends, and the college scout harry was talking about. midtown has a different feeling to it at night. the smell of pencils is oddly stronger, and it’s a lot less intimidating.

cheerleaders are huddled in a circle while the team supervisor has them run their chants. the “leading official,” who peter thought was called a referee, takes his place off to the side. coaches give their players last minute instructions, players fool around with each other, a lot is going on.

peter scans the room for you, and grins a toothy grin when you catch his eyes. you’re sitting by yourself in one of the middle bleachers, only a bag of skinny pop in your lap. you return the smile once you spot him and wave him over.

“i don’t know why, but i thought they’d have an actual concession stand,” you explain the lack of fresh, buttery popcorn as peter takes a seat next to you. he catches the prepackaged bag you toss him. “it’s just a snack table.” “works either way,” peter hums and pokes the bag. “i’m not sure skinny pop is all i can eat, though.” “it’s good!” you defend the snack you chose for him.

“i’m kidding! you’re right, it’s kind of addicting.” he puts it by his feet for now and gives you a half smile. “you’re welcome,” you deadpan in a playful tone. “thanks.” he narrows his eyes. “where’s everyone else?” “right,” you twist around and gesture to the bleacher above you. mj is gloomily seated near the back. ned and betty are a few behind you.

“i told them to find their own seats so we can sit together, alone.” you look over at peter and move ever so slightly closer. “welcome to our friday hangout. just the two of us.” “aw, you didn’t have to do that,” peter laughs out, his knee bumping yours. “but, i’m happy you did.” he goes to put an arm around you, then harry comes racing up the stairs.

just the two of you didn’t last so long.

“y/n, i’m freaking out,” harry announces, zooming through your row to get over to you. he stops once he’s standing in front of peter and shakes him by his shoulder. “hey, pete. you made it.” “yup,” peter replies, pressing his lips together. you wince at his reaction, then quirk an eyebrow at harry. “you’re freaking out? why?”

harry sits down between you and peter, blissfully unaware of the moment he interrupted.

“i found the scout. he’s fucking terrifying as fuck. this super ripped guy, looks like he’d rather be anywhere else,” he talks quietly, like the man will hear him. “he’s not the only one,” peter says to himself, kicking around his bag of popcorn to pass time. you ignore him and grimace.

“shit. wait, how do you know it’s him? did they tell you?” you’re not sure how these things go. harry casually shrugs a shoulder. “dude has a clipboard. seems legit to me.” he gives you a cocky smile. “he’s also in the row before mj. that’s how i noticed. um...” his back now facing peter, he whispers something in your ear that makes you giggle.

peter’s face scrunches up as the spark of anger the past few days have lit reignites itself.

when harry pulls away, you motion for him to come closer with your index finger, cupping your hand around his ear and speaking into it.

nope, no more. peter is entirely about to explode. you cancelled your plans so you can force him to watch basketball, you sweet talk him so he’ll let it go, and you’re running right back to harry after all of that? what the hell does that mean?

peter stands up from his seat. “y/n, we need to talk,” he demands, you moving away from harry to respond. “ok, gimme a minute. we’re-“ “no, we need to talk now.” you don’t have time to refute because he’s taking your arm and dragging you away. harry squints at you in utter confusion.

“um, have a good game! we’ll talk later,” you call back to him, walking with peter even though you have no idea what his issue is and aren’t a fan of how he’s acting.

he releases you once you’re in the hallway. you make a point of harshly yanking your arm back, a scowl painting your lips. “jesus, peter. i was having a conversation.” “do you like harry?” peter blurts out. you’re so shocked at his abruptness that you don’t give him much to work with, only, “what?” “do you like harry?” he asks you again, this time less accusing and more curious.

“do i like...” you’re too aware of the seemingly hundreds of people surrounding you to answer comfortably. “can we talk about this somewhere else?” “sure,” peter nods, letting you lead the way since he did to get out here. you two go down the hall and choose the first room you see, which happens to be the custodian’s closet. it’s thankfully unlocked.

things were tense between you and peter on the way over, and it’s physically mirrored when you step into the room, air thick and smelling of lemon cleaning supplies. you tug on the string hanging down to turn on the light. it casts a faded glow, leaving you in mostly darkness. you sort of like it. this feels more intimate, which is fitting for what you’re both about to say.

neither one of you knows where to begin. peter’s question is ringing in the back of your mind, and you could touch on that, but there’s more to it than a simple yes or no. you don’t have to worry about it because peter gets his words out first.

“i think harry likes you, and i think you like him back,” peter restarts, already sounding deflated by what he came up with. “he doesn’t, and i don’t.” you take a step towards him. “he likes mj.” it’s peter’s turn to be shocked. the hint of a smile sets on your lips. “that’s what we were talking about. harry asked if he should take her to dinner after the game, and i said yes.”

this is going better than he expected.

“mj is the one who likes him, not me,” you reiterate and watch some life enter peter again, a tiny bit. he’s coming around, and he wants to believe you. his trust issues don’t. “but, you’re so... touchy with each other. the hugging the other day?” he mentions. you tilt your head to the side in amusement. “friends can’t hug?”

to be fair, you hugged peter yesterday. that’s a point rightfully shut down.

“he calls you pretty,” peter tries, raising both eyebrows. you have to laugh at this one. “you call may pretty.”

obviously, peter’s analysis skills could use some serious improvements. it sounds like he had the right idea, wrong person. your relationship with harry is platonic. hell, he’s crushing on a whole different person. this actually opens up the possibility of you liking peter in the romantic way, of him being in the something more zone. he had it backwards.

in case peter isn’t convinced yet, and because you really want to, you use one more trick to prove to him you don’t like harry.

“do me and harry do this?” your lips speak for you, colliding with peter’s unexpectedly yet easily. he feels like he’s floating, like he’s in some sort of magical wonderland until it hits him that this is real, and he should probably kiss you back. he does so softly and tangles his fingers in your locks. his hand supports the back of your head as the kiss goes on.

you push forward so your bodies are almost fused together, the closest you can be while you hold his jaw. peter breaks the kiss for a short breather, going back in without more than a moment passing. this one is feverish, his free arm looping around your lower back, hand resting on the small of it. you let out a giggle against his swollen lips and stroke your thumb over his jawline.

he’s been waiting to do this for the longest time, but he doesn’t have to tell you that. it shows in how eager he was to reciprocate, his shyness blossoming into passion. you feel yourself melting under his touch, the kiss eventually becoming a series of short pecks. peter gives you the final one. his pink lips form a grin when you pull apart. your hands stay on each other, not in a rush to go anywhere.

“woah, i like you so much,” peter laughs out. the words roll off his tongue naturally. “you know i like you,” you drawl, smiling at him, a full body smile while you caress his skin. he winds both arms around you and dips his head down to steal another kiss. you’re loving what’s happening. however, you don’t feel like making out while dirty brooms stare at you. you should take this back home.

“wanna get out of here? i do,” you suggest, voice muffled from his lips. they detach from yours and brush your cheek gently. peter makes a funny face. “hm, i thought we had to come. harry needs us,” he says what you did yesterday, earning a groan back. “you’re joking.” “i’m not. what kind of friends would we be, ditching him like that?”

he’s going to end you one day.

“yeah, no. i have no idea how basketball works, and i’d like to keep it that way,” peter drops the act, pressing his fingers into your sides. “i’ve been so mean to harry. i was...” “a dick?” you finish for him. it’s more of a statement than a question. to soften the blow, you rub his cheek with the tips of your fingers. “yup. he’s gonna think i hate him or something if we don’t stay.” his formerly smiley face is frowning.

“harry of all people will understand after we tell him our reasons,” you reassure him, nudging under his chin with your nose. “besides, he has other things to worry about. mj, the scout. it’s fine.” peter considers it, ultimately giving in to you like he always does, resting his forehead on yours. “i guess so. less distractions for him, yeah.” “exactly. that’s what i wanna hear.”

having his approval, you unwind yourself from him and head to the door. his fingers wrap around your wrist gently. “what about my popcorn?” a giggle escapes your lips. “you’re still on that?” “you said all i can eat!” his voice comes out high pitched, adorably high pitched.

“fine. i might have those bags you put in the microwave.” you smile when his fingers lock with yours, peter kissing the side of your head.

“even better. let’s go home.”

[wackybuddiemewbs]

WIP Wednesday Buddie Edition

I know, we been knew. But I am a hoe for all the angst and all the drama. the hurt and the comfort. Particularly the Buck!whump and the soft bois being all boi and soft, downright squishy. AND I am also a downright hoe for the "childhood friends to lovers" trope. So yeah, this is pure self-indulgence. Yet again. And as per usual, I make you sit through it! Cheers!

Working title: Thick as Thieves

Basic idea: Buck and Eddie grew up together in El Paso, after Abuela started fostering Buck, a boy who was left behind at a fire station as an infant. Along the way, they became best friends. More than that, actually. Much more. But fate blew them in different directions, until it puts them back together, in L.A., at the LAFD, with the 118. Buck is in for the shock of his life when he finds out that the new recruit is none other than Eddie Diaz. Eddie is equally shocked. And as both have to find out, sometimes even in painful ways, life has moved on at rapid speed since then. Eddie is a single dad. Buck and his adoptive parents apparently no longer talk? And then, of course, there is the elephant in the room, about what happened, short before Buck moved away from El Paso...

Find out more here: Part 1

Eddie’s entire body feels like it’s still vibrating. He is sore and tired, and he will be dead the moment his head hits the pillows, but right now, sleep is the furthest thing from his mind.

They won the game everyone said they’d lose. And him and Buck made the miracle happen, virtually at the last second. They were made part of the line-up early on because their synchrony on the field was out of this world, the coach had told them as much. But tonight, it was like magic. He didn’t even have to look to know where Buck was. He just knew. And for Buck it was the same. He played passes, not batting an eye, because he knew Eddie would reach it.

When you have each other’s back, you only have to look forward, simple as that.

Now walking – staggering – with arms slung across each other’s shoulders, Eddie can say this is one of the best days of the whole damn year already. While he and Buck know it’s stupid, there is still that faint hope that scouts will pick them out from the crowd, offer a scholarship, something like that. So they could go to college together. They are not holding their breaths for it, but they enjoy it while it lasts.

It’s not like we’ll do our best to pick the same college, duh.

Hell would have to freeze over for them to purposely choose different colleges, once they are done with high school. It wasn’t even a thing they had to talk about. Whenever it comes up, they talk about how to cheat the system and share a room at the dorms. And how to cheat their way through Trig because neither one of them gets it, really.

“Y’know, I get it that we’re still the newbies, but that we still gotta help tidy up after kicking ass is kind of a crime,” Buck laments next to him.

Normally, the line-up would have been for seniors and juniors only. Having two sophomores on for such a high-stake game in the season means a lot. Both knew the moment Coach announced that the pressure was on.

But little do they know how well do perform under pressure.

“You’re aware you volunteered – for me also?” Eddie huffs. “Which, by the way, I told you repeatedly to stop doing?”

Buck rolls his shoulders. “I thought they’d go ‘noooo, not you guys, after the victory you brought us’, kinda overestimated us and our magic, I guess.”

Eddie chuckles softly. It’s a nice thought, surely. But Buck vastly overestimated their importance and the juniors’ and seniors’ wish to pay them back for a good game.

“If we win them the cup, I won’t do chores for a week,” Buck adds, wrinkling his nose.

“If Coach says it, you’re gonna jump,” Eddie huffs.

Scratch that, Coach wouldn't even have to ask for Buck to jump to make him jump.

“I wouldn’t,” Buck retorts.

“Says the guy always set on being a people pleaser,” Eddie snorts. While he says it in a teasing way, it continues to bother him more than maybe it should. It’s not like it was when they were still small kids and Buck was so hellbent on being good to Abuela that he hid injuries and such.

Okay, scratch that again, that is still how he is. I practically had to drag him to the nurse’s office at the beginning of the school year.

And in a lot of ways, that is still how Eddie is, how they are. Eddie wished Buck would finally understand what he’s been trying to hammer into his thick skull for all those years. That he doesn’t have to please people, doesn’t have to earn his spot. That the people who really care about him will take him as he is.

“Well, I can’t help it that I’m pleasant to people,” Buck chuckles.

Eddie rolls his eyes. “Good, coz you’re not.”

“Then what does it say about you that you still hang out with me?” Buck grins at him.

He shrugs. “I’m a charitable guy?”

“No, you’re an asshole. I’m your oldest friend, and this is what I get? Seriously?” Buck whines mockingly. “I feel so vulnerable right now, Eds.”

“Now you’re being overly dramatic, c’mon,” Eddie huffs, nudging against Buck’s shoulder. He grins, nudging back a little more, which has both of them laughing harder and harder upon every nudge, every shove, every touch.

The movements are sluggish at best. They are both totally beat after the game, so the little fight does not last long.

Still bumping shoulders, they cover the remaining distance to the dumpsters to discard of the trash and finally get away from a place that marks both the worst smelling and the most sought-out for the teens to make out.

Which says more about teenagers than it maybe should. And Eddie will say that, fully aware that he is one of them.

“Mission accomplished,” Eddie announces, demonstratively wiping his hands before skipping past the wired fence.

This might be one of the few nights Buck can get away with staying away past curfew. The Moores are very strict about that – not that Buck cares nearly enough as he maybe even should – but Buck’s dad sure is a football fan. Probably because he considers it manly or whatever.

Maybe that’s why Buck is so eager to perform well in the sport, too, Eddie ponders. Sure, he always wants to impress his adoptive parents. To prove his worth to them. Sadly, that’s no news to him. But maybe that’s the appeal when it comes to Mr. Moore especially. To prove that he’s accomplishing things, that he is growing up to be a man.

Eddie knows a familiar song, though his dad sings to a different tune. For him, it’s more about expecting Eddie to be the man in the house when he is not around. To step up the game and act like an adult, even though Eddie isn’t that. Just because he’s gone half the time. Because of the job. Because he of responsibility.

And Eddie’s taking it, as best as he can. He is. He tries. He really does.

Would be nice if he noticed, but that ship’s sailed long time ago.

Mr. Moore seems to have a similar idea for Buck. Not that Mr. Moore lets on an awful lot. He’s even more tight-lipped than Eddie’s grandpa. And Eddie will admit that he didn’t know what his grandfather’s voice sounded like until he was, like, seven and a half years old. But Mr. Moore has always been a bit of a mystery to Eddie. He and Mrs. Moore love Buck fiercely, that much he can tell. They consider him God’s gift and all. But other than wanting him to perform well in school, be sportive, and behave himself? Eddie isn’t sure what they’d want Buck to be like.

Just… normal. Whatever that is.

Though maybe that’s for better. Eddie has some idea of what his father would want him to be. At least he feels like he catches his father’s drift, whenever he is around to drop some wisdom on him. About how men swallow it up. How men don’t have to talk out their emotions. They just move on and get shit done. That kind of thing.

Eddie shakes his head. Tonight is not the night to dig deep on his father’s antics or what the Moores may have as future plans for Buck. Tonight, they ought to celebrate, stay past curfew, and hopefully get away with it without getting grounded.

He looks around, irritated at the lack of Buck’s presence beside him. He turns his head around to see Buck still standing close by the gate, but not past the fence yet. He stands with his head leaned back, looking up above.

“You know this ain’t the place to make grand memories?” Eddie teases.

But Buck pays him no mind, his eyes still fixed on the night sky.

“Earth to Buck?”

Buck blinks, then snaps his head back around to look at Eddie. He flashes a toothy smile before ducking his head, the way he always does when he becomes too self-conscious.

“What got your attention instead of this lovely ensemble?” Eddie asks softly, nodding at the dumpster.

“Sorry, just… awesome view on Scorpius tonight. Didn’t notice until now,” Buck explains, finally moving past the gate.

Eddie looks up, squinting his eyes to find it. Tonight, the stars shine extra bright, it’d seem. He knows Buck’s had a fable for constellations since he came to stay with Abuela. While he never understood where it came from, they grew to be a source of comfort for Eddie. When Buck started fussing or had nightmares, sitting down with him by the windowsill to watch the stars and recount the constellations would often do the trick.

Whatever Buck sees up there that he doesn’t always find down there, Eddie is not sure. But for as long as it only takes calling out his name to get him back, it should be fine.

“Okay, someone still needs to tell me where to find these. Because you showed me a map of the constellations and they look nothing like the real deal,” Eddie huffs.

He blinks, when he feels Buck’s fingers brush against his as he lifts his hand up towards the sky, his arm resting snuck against Eddie’s. Buck adjusts both their stance a bit, and for a moment, Eddie forgets how breathing works.

Which is weird. Because he’s no stranger to standing close to Buck. They lived together as small kids. Bathed together. Slept in one bed. And got so many mosquito bites while sleeping in one tiny tent and leaving the zipper open a bit.

So what’s different tonight than from any other night?

They have taken the trash here before, also at night. Just last week. Sure, Buck didn’t stare at Scorpius that time. But last time, they had started wrestling, and it didn’t take his breath away. Except for when Buck sat down on top of him, the little shit.

“See the spot over there? That’s Antares, rival of Mars. Coz it’s also red. Always a good starting point, coz that’s the tip of the tail. And over there we got Lesath, which both mean sting. Which, you know, very creative right there. And then we move up that curve until we get to the body. Easy once you know where to start, right?”

Buck isn’t looking at him, is busy gearing his movements to help Eddie find the start and end. Though Eddie suddenly finds neither. Or maybe he does. He is no longer sure. Because he isn’t looking at the rival of Mars or the beginning or the end of a constellation in the sky. He is looking at Buck. His Buck. Whom he has looked at and after for many years now. And nothing is different about him. Still the same bright smile and the even brighter eyes.

He looks at him, and all else just disappears for a moment. The stars. The dumpsters. The cheering crowd that can be heard all the way to here. The time running fast towards the end of curfew. It flits away into the dark, carried away by a small gust that makes him shiver.

There is just Buck. Buck’s fingers gently pressing against his. The way he smiles. The way his eyes twinkle when he talks. The way Eddie knows Buck like the back of his hand. The way Buck knows him inside-out. Even the things Eddie doesn’t say, Buck just somehow knows. The things Eddie doesn’t even dare to touch, Buck brushes against, begins where he often wants the conversation to end, to keep things as they are. So no one leaves, ever again.

“Eds?”

Eddie blinks, then lifts his gaze to meet Buck’s. He can see the confusion there, but also the calm presence that Buck seems to have reserved only for him. For those rarer moments when Eddie loses his cool. And as always, he just waits. Waits for Eddie to catch on, come back to him.

He can feel Buck’s grip loosening on him. And that is when something inside Eddie just snaps and moves, moves him. Before Buck can let go of him, Eddie twists them around and presses his lips against Buck’s to the point it may make their teeth ache. Because he doesn’t want to let go. He wants to hold on. He has to, even though Eddie doesn’t know why or how or why now.

It makes no sense at all. And yet, it feels like nothing made sense before this kiss, however clumsy and awkward it is. How it ever made sense not to kiss those lips, to hold on to this body, this person, as if it wasn’t his beginning or Buck’s the same way.

For that one perfect moment, maybe two, three, four, the universe leaves them in peace as they steal those precious seconds where it is only them. A time that is just theirs. That belongs to no one but them. Something no one can take away from them, no matter what the future may hold, or what lies in the past.

When Eddie pulls away, breathing hard, it takes him a few seconds to catch up, catch up, catch up again. For every moment stolen, three come smacking against him.

He just kissed his best friend. Without a warning. For either Buck or himself.

He kissed Buck. On the lips. And he meant it. Meant every moment of it.

His eyes search Buck’s for the answers his mind won’t provide. Dread settles in right at that moment, making him shudder. Because how did he manage to skip every step from “I might like boys” to “I want to kiss my best friend on the mouth, hard”?

Have I just ended everything for us? Is it over now? Is that…?

Eddie opens his mouth, an apology or whatever it is at the tip of his tongue, but it gets pushed back and away when Buck steps closer, wraps his arms around his back and kisses him back all the harder.

He knows they should talk about it. Right now. They should stop kissing and talking. But Eddie doesn’t find the strength for it. He melts into the warmth and comfort Buck radiates. The warmth and comfort he also knows like the back of his hand. And he holds on to it, ushering away all cold he may feel.

And so, under the stars so brightly shining, they steal as many moments as they can, exchanging between puffs of air and pecks and tender touches small reassurances carrying the same message:

You are not alone.

You are with me.

Stay with me, so I can stay with you.

Hold on to me, so I can never let go again.

Let’s begin again, together.