#of course whatever happens is not gonna be one to one.

[ssahotchnerr]

Hello! How are you doing?

I don't have anything extremely specific (sorry, I'm just leaving work and haven't really thought about this).

But if you want to, how about jealous Aaron who has the, very rare, opportunity to go pick up the reader from her job and see her all smiles with another coworker? In this case I was thinking that there might be a age gap between them and the male coworker is more of her age? So a bit of jealous and insecure Hotch?

If you feel comfortable with this of course!

Have a good day 😊

in comparison

cw; fem!reader, age gap, insecure :( and jealous!aaron, some angst, small suggestiveness, fluff <3 wc; 1.2k

You were exiting the building with a few of your colleagues, partaking in what appeared to be an entertaining conversation from Aaron's line of sight. The liveliness on your face was vivid, undoubtedly enjoying whatever the whole of you were collectively discussing.

You looked comfortable, relaxed, happy. You molded into the group well. One of your male colleagues in particular was inching a bit too close, a near awestruck expression on his face as a laugh escaped you. If he took one step to his right, his shoulder would be touching yours. While you were clueless, he was enamored.

Aaron felt his eyes harden involuntarily, a jealous heat swarming through his body; he wanted to march over there and assert his role as yours. However, the feeling wasn't long lasting. A profound sadness climbed up his spine, as he gained a different perspective.

It wasn't that you didn't fit into his life. On the complete contrary: you were the perfect addition.

But something about seeing you with others, with someone closer to your age, was daunting. Intimidating. It sickened him how natural the visual appeared. Reality has smacked him in the face numerous times over the years, he wouldn't be surprised if it happened again. That somehow, someway, you would prefer the latter. The one that had nothing to do with him.

As you walked towards Aaron's car, you glanced back at your coworkers, offering a wave and a smile as they jointly headed to the parking lot. His window was opened a crack, and he heard you call back towards them, "Have fun tonight!"

Aaron exhaled a breath.

"Hey." You chirped as you slid into the passenger seat, leaning over the center console to place a kiss on Aaron's cheek. He was rather stiff as you did so, causing you to lightly scrunch your nose in confusion, pulling away slowly. Something was up.

"Hey," He echoed, greeting you with an almost forced smile. The abruptness of his thoughts had unsettled him deeply - he couldn't shake them. "You ready?"

"As I'll ever be." You responded hesitantly, searching his face as you buckled your seatbelt. You added after a moment, happy to be in his company and the emotion overtaking your heart. "I missed you today."

But your words went unnoticed, as he had already reentered the void that was his unwelcome thoughts.

In result the car ride home was silent, Aaron's pout unfaltering. His mind was plagued by the image of your coworker being in his place, driving you home, or the two of you huddled together amongst a night out with friends. It caused an uncomfortable, sad pit in his stomach.

"You missed a turn."

"What?"

Your statement jolted him back to earth. No he didn't... did he? His eyebrows furrowed in a line, reassessing the current surroundings. Nothing out of the ordinary, all familiar street signs. When he confirmed he, in fact, did not miss a turn, he turned to you, only to find a knowing smirk plastered on your face.

His eyebrows quirked softly, obstructing the line drawn above his eyes. "What was that about?"

"To get your mind off whatever you're stewing about."

A smile threatened his lips, due to your witty expression and observation, "I'm not." His tone found a slightly lighter note - amusingly guilty. Anything but convincing.

"Aaron, darling, you're gonna break some teeth if that," Your playful demeanor dropped for a moment, your eyes tracing back and forth, as if you were in a trance. "Jaw of yours tightens anymore."

Your brief distraction eased a notion of his jealousy, he still had that effect on you, thankfully. He readjusted his grip on the steering wheel, his stare forward.

"So what is it?" You asked, "Did you have a bad day?"

He shook his head.

"Bad bout of cases?"

Aaron grimaced, his knuckles letting up only to secure his fingers over the wheel again, "They're always bad."

"Something I did?"

He opened his mouth to respond, but only silence came out. His hesitation caused your face to fall, your shoulders dropping and posture succumbing to the back of your seat.

"No honey, no you didn't do anything." He was quick to reassure, feeling entirely worse. "I can assure you."

Your eyes met his, needing more.

He sighed defeatedly, surprisingly not afraid to bluntly admit, "I'm jealous."

"Jealous?" You froze, but then it clicked. You gestured behind, as if your colleagues were somehow tailing the two of you. "Of...?"

Aaron bit his lip, nodding slowly.

Your expression lightened, a soft and genuine wonder in your eyes, "Why?"

"Are you okay with this?" Confusion arose on your face once more, so he clarified. "This. Us. You signed up for a lot, quickly at that."

Truth be told, the two of you had progressed at a rate neither of you expected, due to the sheer infatuation you possessed for one another. That, too, had been natural.

"I'm divorced, widowed, a father - I come with baggage. My 'going-out' are days long gone. I don't want you missing out."

"Aaron." In a way, you could laugh. It tore your heart into pieces he was thinking this way, doubting himself but he was clueless in an adorably, idiotic way. In summary, he simply never gave himself the credit he deserved. "What could I possibly be missing out on?"

"You could be spending your weekends out, socializing, with people closer in age. And yet, you're..." He came up with an example. "Making pillow forts. These are supposed to be the best years of your life. I'm terribly boring in comparison."

"Hey, I make a mean pillow fort."

He gave you a look.

Your hand grabbed his bicep affectionately, clinging onto it as if you were knocking some sense into him. "I chose this. I chose you. Jack is the addition to my life I never knew I needed. And I don't want to be out galavanting bar to night club to bar. I jump at the opportunity to deny a night out to spend it in. With you. When have you ever seen me wanting to go out and party?"

An expression of distaste flashed across your face at the concept, and Aaron's head tilted to the side as he considered your point.Yeah, that was true.

"I'm a homebody. And if there's anything I've realized over the course of the past months, you're my home. You."

Aaron let out the breath he didn't know he was holding.

"I know what I'm in for. And I embrace it with open arms. I want it." Your face was content, even more so than when you were talking with your colleagues. "I love you. And I love the life we're creating. It's so special, beyond my wildest dreams."

"Really?" A boyish, hopeful expression graced his face.

"Really. I wouldn't want it any other way. I can promise you. This- you're everything I could ever want."

Aaron's hand found your thigh, giving it a gentle, loving squeeze. "I love you too, sweetheart."

You beamed in response - you'd never get tired of the words leaving his lips.

"That one guy though," Aaron raised his eyebrows, taking a quick glance at you. Envy began creeping back, "He seemed interested. Wasn't a fan of that."

You scoffed, unbothered. "I'm into men, not boys. Which again, you are the utmost depiction of." Your delightful smirk resurfaced, admirably looking him over. "Believe me, I couldn't be more satisfied."

He wanted to play into your suggestive remarks, but he needed further confirmation. Once more. "You sure?"

"Oh, I'm positive."

Finally satisfied himself, he surrendered, "Okay."

"In fact, I can think of a few ways to show you just how much later."

[lokisfirecracker]

toxic, older man!price x reader

summary; you catch price flirting with someone else when you’re out on a date together, you argue but price manages to plant seeds in your head that you were overreacting. this is you coming back to him, because john is always right, and he would never hurt you, right?

warnings- toxic, abusive relationship, smut, public sex, voyeurism, humiliation, boot humping

—————

it had only been 2 days since your argument with john. you’d thought that he was in the wrong, when you caught him chatting up a pretty blonde whilst he waited for you to be done in the bathroom at the local pub.

you’d thought he was in the wrong when he’d denied their conversation being flirty, saying that he could never want someone that wasn’t you, even though his hand had been awfully close to her ass.

you’d started being confused about who was in the wrong when he’d complained about you always picking holes in every little thing he did, that he felt like he was being suffocated by you, before storming out, leaving you to find your own way home.

now, 2 days later, you knew that he was right, you had been more clingy than usual lately, and you had been tending to tell him off when really, the things he’d been doing weren’t that bad. you shouldn’t have complained about him looking down the waitress’ top last week when you were on another date, he couldn’t help that his eyes were at the same level as her tits! it’s not his fault that his chair was the perfect height.

you were missing him desperately, wishing that you’d just kept you mouth shut so you could be with him right now. you’d been on the fence about calling him, not sure if he’d even want you anymore after your spout. so instead, you decided that the best course of action, was to get absolutely plastered and pretend nothing happened.

admittedly, it wasn’t the best plan you could’ve come up with, and you were slightly regretting it now that you’d found yourself stood on john’s doorstep, in the sluttiest outfit you had, hand hovering by the door because you were too scared to knock.

luckily for you, he opened the door, unlit cigar in one hand. your eyes welled up immediately at the sight of him, feeling overwhelmed with relief from how much you’d missed him.

he sighed heavily, not looking at all surprised to see you and leaned up against the door frame, “you come to apologise for your behaviour?”

you quickly looked down, tears streaming down your face and cooling your warmed cheeks. now that you were here, you were unsure what to say. how could you ever make it up to him, what could you do to repay him for being so mean and inconsiderate to your poor boyfriend.

“you gonna answer me? or did y’come just here to yell and embarrass me again?”

his words only made you cry harder, wishing you could go back to before and have your john back. you swear that you’ll never complain about him again if he forgives you, you’d do anything he asked.

“no i-,” your own sobs cut you off, and you scrambled to find the right words, eyes lifting to meet his. “i’m so sorry, i was so cruel, i didn’t mean to.”

“so you just meant to upset me then, just didn’t mean to do it so publicly?” he sneered, titling his to the side a little. the floor beneath him creaked as he pushed off the frame, stepping closer to you.

you rushed to shake your head, doing it so quickly that your head swarmed, stumbling a little.

“don’t be so pathetic, it doesn’t suit you baby,”

you whimpered quietly, “i didn’t want to hurt you at all, i promise. please, i need you, please don’t leave me. i promise i’ll be good. just tell me what to do and i’ll do it, please.”

your breathing was laboured, and your heart felt like it was going to pump out of your chest. you waited whilst he considered, hoping that whatever he chose, that it would be enough for him to consider forgiveness.

“on your knees,” he commanded, finally lighting the cigar and taking a pull.

you dropped down, feeling the twang in your knees that you knew meant they’d be black and blue later. you looked up at him, waiting patiently for his next order as tears continued to fall, “hump my boot.”

you moved to do as he’d asked, not wanting to be seen hesitating and he change his mind. you carefully lifted yourself up, and placed your weight down onto his leather boot. your tears finally began to dry up as you loosely wrapped your arms around his strong leg.

going slowly at first, you rubbed your cunt along his shoe, trying to avoid the laces. you tried your best to put on a show for him, wanting to make him pleased at your actions, but the feeling of the leather grinding against your clit was disturbingly good.

just as you were getting lost in twisted pleasure, you heard a long whistle from down the street behind you. your head whipped around, stunting your movements on his shoe. a couple of men had gathered around to watch, and you hadn’t even realised. had they been there the whole time? did you know them? it was too dark to be able to recognise them, but the porch light above john made you very visible to them. you only hoped they couldn’t see the way your swollen cunt was glistening against the leather.

you felt a rough tug to your hair, and squealed as he said, “did i fucking tell you to stop?” you shook your head again, knowing that any words you said would only anger him further at this point, and john didn’t tolerate prolonged disobedience.

resuming your movements, you tried not to think about the strangers, and focused only john and your quickly approaching orgasm.

you’d never felt so humiliated in your life, but you knew you deserved this. after all, this is how he must of felt outside that pub bathroom, with all those people around, watching. really, if you thought about it, you were quite lucky to only have a couple people watching you. john had been very generous with his punishment, and you’d happily take it like a good girl if it made him happy.

legs shaking, you moaned into his thigh, calling out his name like a chant. pleasure flowed through you as you released your cum onto his now shining boot. you collapsed against him, feeling exhausted and embarrassed. he gently pulled you up and into his arms, pressing his hard bulge into you as you tried to recover.

before you could realise what he was doing, you felt him flip up the back of your skirt, followed by a sharp burn against your ass check. you gasped, trying to move away from the source of pain. he shushed you as you began to cry again, rubbing your back and discarding the rest of the now put out cigar onto the floor.

“did so well for me, sweetheart. you’re forgiven, been such a good girl, haven’t you? how could i ever stay mad at that pretty face of yours, hm?”

he picked you up and walked around back into his house, slamming the door shut with his foot behind him.

your body continued to tremble as he placed you down onto his bed, lovingly tucking your hair behind your ears. he moved back to undo your laces and take off your shoes, focus moving back over to your face every once in a while. next, he unzipped the side of your skirt, and pulled your top off, leaving you in only your soaked underwear.

he admired the view, smiley softly when your eyes met and crawled up the bed to lay beside you. you always craved these moments with him, where you knew he loved you, where you knew that you were the one he wanted right now. you’d go to much further lengths than you had tonight on the porch to make him happy, if it meant that this is what you got in return. nothing felt this good.

he pulled you closer, his hold on your body tight, almost uncomfortably so, before his face turned serious, “you ever embarrass me again, and i’ll fucking kill ya, you hear me?”

you sniffled, eyes widening a little but refusing to squirm from his arms, “i won’t ever, i promise john,”

“good, that’s good,”

and just like that, he was his happy self again, like you’d never argued, like he hadn’t just threatened to take you life, like you didn’t know that he meant it. everything was good again, just don’t you dare say a word when the next week, you catch him sending pictures of his dick to his “doctor”.

—————

any feedback in the comments is massively appreciated <3

[dolcekissy]

cheater cheater , ღ

part 2

: ̗̀➛ stepbro!rafe comforting reader while topper, her boyfriend, is out cheating on her.

⋆.ೃ࿔*:･ main masterlist | reader x stepbro!rafe masterlist

disclaimer // 18+ content. this story includes being rafes step sister, unprotected sex, p in v, kinda pervy rafe, breeding kink, and i think that's it idk

─────────────────────────

you knew it was wrong ─ fucking your step brother while your boyfriend was out doing whatever the hell he was doing. you didn't care that you were cheating on topper at this point but with his best friend that just so happens to be your step brother? what the fuck.

topper had been ignoring your texts lately and going out with his friends a lot more than usual ─ turning his location off while he's out with them. he pushed you over the edge when he blocked you tonight after telling you he'll be busy tonight. you ran to rafes room with tears in your eyes that eventually led up to your current situation,

"that lil fucker ─ shit girl." he leans back a bit to watch your pretty pussy swallow his cock whole, sucking in a breath. "he's been treating you like shit lately huh? fuckkk ─ big bro will take care of you, yeah? yeahhh, shh shh s'okay baby" he grabs one your hands intertwining them in his and moving his other to rub harsh circles on your puffy clit.

you whine out totally overstimulated by his cock stretching you out and the newfound pleasure of him playing with your sensitive pussy. "rafeee ─ s'too much."

he grinned down at you while rubbing your clit harder. "you can take it. i hear you faking with toppers dumbass when you sneak him in. you need some real dick." you clench around him, tears staining your cheeks while he pumps in and out of at a speed that has you seeing little white dots around his room.

"fuck baby ─ this what toppers missing out on right now? feels s'good. so fucking good." you moan out loudly which is quickly muffled by his hand flying to cover your mouth. "cant let the whole house know your cock drunk off your stepbrothers dick, yeah? stay quiet doll."

rafe can tell you're close by the way your pussy flutters around his cock and the way you grip onto his large biceps like your life depends on it. he's close too, so fucking close ─ he's been waiting to fuck you for what felt like years now. if anything it made him happy top was very obviously cheating on you. now you could finally be all his.

"shit baby, m'gonna cum. gonna let me cum in this pussy?" rafe is pounding you into the mattress, still rubbing your sensitive bud. you nod eagerly, barely understanding what he just said.

he knows you're too cock drunk to understand ─ just nodding your pretty little head to anything he says. "really gonna let step bro nut in you? gonna let me fill you with my babies? nasty, nasty girl." you completely let go letting your orgasm wash over you, clenching even harder on his cock.

of course rafe sticks to his word and cums deep inside of you, fucking the cum up into you. he leans back to watch it drip out of you and onto his sheets. "fucking hell." he looks back up at your fucked out state ─ eyes glossy, lips red and swollen, hair a fuckin' mess. yet you're begging him for more. "oh yeahhh. babydoll just needed to get a taste of some real dick, huh? you want some more? yeah? shit. yeahhh, goood girl." he says sliding right back into you.

─────────────────────────

[ripdragonbeans]

Not Him, I Swear // Modern!Aegon x Reader // Pt. 3

Summary: You go on your second date with Aegon and it ends up being much more fun that you anticipated.

CW: afab reader, profanity, eventual smut, Aegon being an ass, oh but he has feelings??????

Part 1 || Part 2 || Part 3

The next few days were filled with cute texts and fluffy dates. Aegon respected your wishes and didn't push you to go any further than a make out session. It drove you crazy; you wanted him but you were scared. As much as you wanted to forget all the pain Jason caused you, it was something that stayed. It tainted your views of love, something that can be hard to make new. 

Aegon seemed too good to be true.

But you swallowed your fears and pushed on with your relationship with him. 

“Hey, man!” Cregan strolled into the room. “How's our bet going? Is she begging for you yet?” He plopped himself down next to Aegon and put his feet on the table.

Aegon rolled his eyes. “Shut up,” he murmured. “No, she's not begging yet, but I'll get there.” He ran his hand through his hair and sighed. “Gods, I almost feel bad.”

Cregan’s eyebrow rose. “Bad? Don't tell me that my best friend is actually catching feelings for someone.”

“No, I'm not catching feelings for anyone.” Aegon got up to grab another beer; his third one already, and it was barely noon.

“The way you talk about her says differently.”

“I haven't talked about her.”

“Not obviously, of course. At any mention of the bet or anything, you tense up. Something’s going on in that head.”

“Whatever, Cregan,” Aegon muttered. “Since you're so focused on annoying me, I'm gonna go to my room.” He gave his friend a mocking wave before leaving the living room to his own.

He put his head in his hands and let out a groan. He couldn't be catching feelings, he shouldn't be falling for her. But he is. 

The way she smiles. The way her eyes light up. The way she tucks her hair behind her ear. It's like looking into a bright light and being engulfed in its warmth. 

But he had to do this. He needed to prove that he could have anyone he wanted. If not to himself, then to his friend. As shallow as it was, he wanted to follow through. He hoped she wouldn't hate him in the end. 

“Hel, I really can't believe it,” you gushed. “I know you said not to get too involved with him but he's already so much better than Jason!” 

You plopped down on the couch, closed your eyes, and stretched. The wonderful feeling of being loved say well inside your heart. Despite the aching fears and the anxiety that comes along after being cheated on, the feeling of being loved triumphed ever just a tiny bit. 

“I wouldn't go ahead and say that, bestie. Please, be on your guard. You know all the stories, all the rumors, and I can even testify for some of them.” Helaena held your hands and looked you in the eye. “Be careful, please.”

A voice came from the hallway. “Yeah, what she said.” Jace walked over to the two of you sitting on the couch. He wore a grim expression on his face. “I don't mean to hurt you but I've heard that he's just trying to get you to sleep with him, all for some bet.”

Your heart sank at the thought but you pushed it aside.

“Very funny, Jace,” you said. “But I don't need that negativity in my life.”

“It's not negativity if it's true.” He looked at you with pity in his eyes. 

You shook off the expression and took a deep breath. “Why can't you two just be happy for me?” 

Helaena squeezed the hand she was holding. “We're happy for you, we just want you to be careful. We hate to see you hurt.”

“It's a risk, isn't it? All relationships are. I know Aegon and I will either end up together forever or eventually break up. It's up to us, not you two, but me and Aegon, how bad that ending will be.”

Helaena huffed. “Okay, I'll drop it. For now.”

You smiled at her. “Thank you.” You turned to address both Jace and Helaena. “Now, would you two like to know what's happening next?”

“As hesitant as I am, yes,” Helaena said. 

Jace nodded his head in agreement.

You pulled out your phone to read the text messages between you and Aegon.

“Our next date is a movie!” You announced.

There was a beat of silence before Jace broke it. “A movie? Isn't that a little cliche?”

You frowned at him. “Shut up, it's something.”

“What movie are you guys gonna catch?” Helaena cut in. 

“Oh! Um…” you bowed your head in embarrassment and mumbled your answer.

“I'm sorry? What was that?” Jace leaned in. A knowing smirk graced his lips.

You mumbled your answer again, but a little louder.

“Bestie, I still can't hear you!” 

“Shrek 2.” 

You look up in shame. The judgment you feel from them was too much.

“...I'm sorry, did you just say Shrek 2?” Clarified Jace.

“It's the best one!”

Helena laughed. “Considering it's you and Aegon, it makes sense. Weird choice, but yeah.” She clapped her hands together. “Okay, time to get you date ready!”

“‘Date ready?’ Hel, I’ve got five hours until I have to leave. I have time.”

“For what I have planned for you? Nope, five hours is just enough time for me and Jace to get you set.”

Jace froze hearing his name. “Me? What do I have to do?”

“Shut up, you're moral support,” Helaena rolled her eyes in amusement. “Now, let's go.”

Helaena offered you her hand but you hesitated slightly. What if this is just a plot to convince you to not go? But when you looked at your friends all you could see was the love they had for you.

“Alright, let's get this started,” you smiled.

Four hours later had you sitting in a chair with your back straight and a mirror behind you. 

“Annnnnd done!” Helaena turned your chair around so you could see yourself.

You took in the image, your hair all done nicely, your facial features enhanced, all of it. You couldn't help the smile that made its way.

“Helaena,” you started, “my gods, you did an amazing job!” 

You turned toward Jace, who was sitting on the arm of the couch. 

“Yeah,” he said between handfuls of chips, “you look great. Aegon is gonna shit himself.” 

“I don't know about that,” you rolled your eyes. “He's been with a shit ton of other girls before me, I doubt I'm the prettiest.”

A hand smacked your head. 

“No. You're the hottest he's ever been with and will only be with for the rest of your lives.”

“Wow, and I thought you were dead set on me not being with him.”

“Only to protect you! But,” she sighed, “if this is how it goes then he better not break your heart. He does that. I'll chop up his dick in his sleep.”

“Yeah, and I'll fuck up his face,” Jace added.

You laughed at your friends, your heart full. “You two are so extra.”

“It's called being best friends,” Jace said as he joined you and Helaena at the mirror. 

Looking at the three of you, you thought of all the trials you've been through. All the heartbreak, the laughs, the highs and the lows. Without them who knows what you would be like. You interlocked your hands with both of them and leaned back.

“I don't know what I did to deserve you guys, but I'm grateful for you two and love you.”

Beep beep!

The sound of the honking car was quickly followed by a text. You picked up your phone and couldn't stop the smile. Of course Aegon would do this. As you readied yourself to leave the apartment, you did one last look in the mirror. 

You were happy with how you looked; all dolled up for the date. Just enough to be enticing but not so much in your face. With a pep in your step, you made your way to the front door. 

Aegon’s eyes went wide when he saw you. “You look…”

You nodded for him to continue.

“Amazing. You look amazing.” Aegon flashed you a big smile.

“You don't look too bad yourself,” you replied as you got in the car.

Aegon’s car was messy but it could be a lot worse. Luckily the trash wasn't food trash but rather random papers and receipts that were strewn across the floor and the back seat. It also smelled vaguely of weed.

“You smoke?” You asked him.

Aegon pulled out of the driveway. “Yeah, and I vape every now and then if I want a flavor or something. You?” 

“I've been curious about it but no, I haven't done either.”

“Wanna try? We can pull over and I can roll you a joint.”

A smile crept onto your face. There were butterflies in your stomach but you were excited to take the plunge.

Once Aegon pulled over into an unmarked parking lot, he pulled out the weed, the paper, and lighter. He was careful to roll the joint nicely for you. Once he finished he looked at his work and gave you a smile. “Ta-da! One joint rolled for my kitten.”

“Okay, cool. I can do this.” You told yourself.

Aegon looked at you with concern. “You don't have to smoke if you don't want to.”

“No, but I really want to.”

“Okay.” He nodded his head. “I'll light it. Then all you have to do is inhale through your mouth, hold it for a bit then exhale through your mouth. Simple.”

“Simple. Right.”

“Okay, here we go.”

Aegon lit it then brought the joint up to your mouth. You gently wrapped your lips around the tip and you did as he said. 

Inhale.

You felt the smoke fill your mouth.

Hold.

You let it sit and go down your throat.

Exhale.

A puff of smoke flew out of your mouth.

As a calming sensation sprinkled through your body you have Aegon a relaxed smile.

“You feeling okay?” Aegon asked you 

You laughed a bit. “Yeah, I feel good.”

Aegon took a drag from the joint himself. “Wanna get high before we watch the movie?”

“Hell yeah.”

Before heading off to the movie theater, you and Aegon shared the joint. It didn't take long for you to get high but Aegon finished it off. He was careful not to get higher than just having a buzz since he was driving. The rest of the ride was filled with you babbling about everything and nothing. Aegon smiled and let you go on. 

Arriving at the theater, you let out a little giggle. “I'm so excited for this, Aegon.” You slurred his name.

“Yeah.” He couldn't stop himself from smiling at you. Getting out of the car, he circled around to open the passenger door. “Time to get out, kitten.”

You giggled again. “I like that you call me kitten. It's cute and it kinda turns me on.”

Aegon gulped down a breath. “That's great; time to see the movie.”

Letting go of Aegon’s hand, you put both of yours on his chest. “I wanna be with you.”

He pushed your hands down and kept them firmly in his. Aegon looked you in the eye. “And we will but not like this. I want you to be sober when I take you.”

You huffed. “Okay.”

Finally getting you to step out of the car, Aegon went back to only holding one hand as he led you through the parking lot and into the theater.

“Mmm I want popcorn and an Icee,” you said as soon as you walked in. The smell of popcorn immediately surrounded you.

“I'll get you popcorn and a water,” Aegon said.

You stamped your foot. “But I want an Icee!”

He tugged on your hand to get you to look at him. “Kitten, you need water. Trust me, okay?”

“Okay.” Another giggle escaped you.

After buying popcorn and water, Aegon led the way to your numbered theater to watch Shrek 2. At first you wanted to sit up front but he pulled you away to the rows in the back.

“No one needs to know you're high,” he said as you made your way up the stairs. 

“But you know I'm high,” you observed.

“I'm the one that got you high, kitten.”

“Oh, yeah.”

As you sat down in your chair, all you could think about was getting as close to Aegon as possible. Thankfully, these were the newer, fancier theater chairs. You reclined your chair and moved the armrest out of the way so you could lean on Aegon.

“You and popcorn,” you said as you snuggled up to him. “The best combination ever.”

“Don't forget Shrek.”

“And Shrek.”

Aegon kissed the top of your head as the lights went down and the movie began.

While Shrek 2 was already one of the funniest moments of all time, watching it high made it even funnier.

“Prince Charming looks like Jason,” you whispered, eyes wide. “I bet his dick is small like Jason’s, too.”

Aegon choked on his water. He stole a look at you but all he saw was a girl high as fuck while watching Shrek 2. Gods, he wanted to kiss you then and there.

The movie continued with your constant one liners about how everything in Shrek related to something or someone in your life. Somehow you were Shrek, Fiona was Aegon (which he was happy about), Donkey was Helaena, and Puss in Boots was Jace. To you, it all made sense. To Aegon, it was simply blabbering that entertained him.

As the credits rolled on the screen, you lolled your head against Aegon’s shoulder once again. “I’m tired, Aeg.”

“You’re coming down from your high, kitten,” he assured you. “Time to get up and head home.”

“I don’t wanna move.” You slunk down in your seat.

Aegon laughed. “They’re gonna kick us out anyway if you don’t get up. What if I helped you?”

You held out both arms. “Yes, please.”

Aegon moved to stand in front of you to pull you up. Instead of letting go, however, he tucked you into his side. Together, you made your way out of the movie theater.

“Can we go to your place?” you asked him as he pulled out of the parking lot.

“No, I’m going to drop you off at my sister’s.”

All of a sudden you wanted to cry. “Why? Do you not like me?”

“That’s not it. You’re high and I’m going to take care of you.”

Your mood instantly switched. “I’d love for you to take care of me.” Heat began pooling in your belly while you placed a hand on his thigh.

Reluctantly, Aegon moved your hand off of him. “Not like that. I’m going to be responsible this one time and take you back to Helaena’s.”

“Come on, be irrisp, irrrrsp, irrisponble this one time.”

“If you want to be in my bed you’re going to have to be sober, kitten.”

You crossed your arms. “Boo, you’re no fun.”

“I know, what a bore.” He turned into the driveway. “Time to go.” He walked over to your side to open the door and walk you to the front. “I loved tonight.”

“I love you too, Aegon,” you yawned.

Aegon stopped, stunned. “I think you mean you loved tonight.”

You hummed. “No, I love you.”

He nodded his head, mouth slightly agape, as he took you Helaena’s room. When he knocked on the door Helaena popped out.

Her eyes instantly went to you, leaning all your weight on Aegon. “What did you do?!”

Aegon shrugged. “She wanted to get high so I let her. I only got buzzed but she is definitely high.”

“Yeah, I can see that.”

“It’s loud,” you moaned. “And bright.”

“Gods, get her in here.” Helaena motioned for Aegon to bring you into the room.

Immediately, you went for the bed and flopped down. Aegon was careful as he tucked you in. Helanea watched in awe of how sweet he was being to you. As soon as you drifted off to sleep, Helaena took Aegon into the hallway to talk.

“Have you been like this all night?” she questioned.

“You mean like the wonderful gentleman I am? Yes.”

“Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why are you being so kind to her?”

He shrugged. “What can I say, Hel. I like her.”

“No, when you like girls you just charm them and then fuck them. This is the second date you’ve gone on with her. Something is up.”

Aegon ran his hand down his face. “Let me do this, just once, let me be the good guy.”

Helaena looked at him warily. “Fine. But if you do anything to hurt her, I will personally destroy your life.”

[lynzishell]

The Past 🩵 Asher

I rush into my apartment, slamming the door behind me, and take a sharp left to get into my room before Lex can catch me. Once inside, I lock the door and remove my smelly clothes from last night as quickly as I can. I’m tempted to shower again after having to walk home in them, but I don’t have time. As it is, Iris is going to be calling in an hour to ask why I haven’t arrived yet, and I really don’t have it in me today to deal with her moods, which are even worse now that she’s very pregnant. Spencer is due to arrive in a couple weeks, and my sister ran out of patience a couple weeks ago.

“Ash?” Lex pounds on the door as I’m pulling clothes from my dresser.

“Give me two minutes, I’m just changing.” I really don’t have time to chat with her, I have to leave, but I also kinda need my best friend.

Once I’m fully clothed, I walk into the living room to find Lex standing there, waiting for me. She takes one look at my face and holds out her arms with a concerned pout, “Baaabe.” Years ago, I told her that I hate it when guys call me “babe”, that it was a total turn off. Her solution was to call me “babe” herself, that way no one else would be allowed to call me that ‘cause it’s hers; and it wouldn’t feel so icky because she’d be saying it ironically. But then it stuck and now it really is hers and there’s nothing ironic about it.

I fall into her arms and let her embrace me as only she can. Lex gives the best hugs. Sometimes she squeezes the life out of you, but on days like today, it feels like she’s holding all the broken bits of me together. If she hugs me long enough then it will heal me, but if she lets go too soon, I’ll fall to pieces, so I squeeze her back just as tight and bury my face in her shoulder.

“What happened?”

“I made a fool of myself, Lex.” As I say the words out loud, I feel a lump form in my throat and I’m grateful that my voice is muffled by the sleeve of her jacket so as not to give me away.

“What do you mean?”

“I just… I thought... I don’t know what I thought,” and then the dam breaks. My tears burst forth so quickly that I have no chance of stopping them, so I just let it happen. The sobs rack my body, making my chest hurt. I cling to her like she’s a lifebuoy in the middle of the ocean during a storm. And she stands there, solid and safe, holding me until the storm passes and I start breathing normally again. It’s over just as quickly as it started.

“I’m gonna kill him, y’know,” she says finally.

I sniffle and let out a pitiful laugh, “Please don’t.”

“Seriously? You come home in this state, and you expect me to let him live?”

I walk into the kitchen to splash my face with cold water and clean myself up. “Just because I’m sad doesn’t mean he deserves your wrath. Besides, I think I’m just extra sensitive coming down from whatever the hell you gave us last night.”

“So, this is my fault?”

“No. I’m just saying my breakdown is at least partially chemical. And maybe that explains Atlas’ mood today actually. Oh, I might’ve completely misread everything. Fuck.” I groan as I clench my stomach and lean against the counter, suddenly feeling sick with regret and embarrassment.

“Okay, hold on, what exactly happened?”

“I don’t have time to get into it. I have to run out to my parents’ house and help Iris with fucking baby furniture or something.”

“Well, let’s go then. I’ll come with you.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, I don’t have anything else to do today, and we’re not done talking. And I like your mom’s cooking.”

I throw my arm around her shoulders and kiss her cheek dramatically, “Thank you.” I’m grateful to have her to talk to during the two-hour drive. I would no doubt be stewing and obsessing the whole time if not. My family will be happy to see her as well. They’re always asking why she doesn’t come visit more. Of course, I know it’s because she feels like she has to go see her own family if she’s in town, and that’s the last thing she wants to do.

“Alright, calm down. Let’s go.”

Prev // Next

[lady-dragon-rider]

Scales and Feathers Pt4.

Davos/Benjicot Blackwood, Oscar Tully x Targ! Reader

Reader races against the clock to try and stop things from escalating and attempts to mend bridges. And finds help in unlikely places.

Containing: family arguments, mild Helaena/Aegon x reader (them having a soft spot), reader gags Otto and Alicent, reader plays the game (mild manipulation), canon-divergance

Featuring: reader is fav niece, some Aegon and Helaena fluff bc the actors deserve it.

Gonna be another long one guys!

Bold is text spoken in High Valyrian

---

You wake up the next morning sat in a chair in Helaena's room, a blanket and your sword resting faithfully on your lap. Startled and unsure of how you got there you frantically look around the room for anything awry.

"Be calm dear niece, you did well. Aegon and i moved you in here for a reprieve when you started to fall asleep at the door." You hear Helaena's voice coo. Calm knowing violet meets yours as she makes her way from her spot at the bed; dressed and ready for the day.

"I dont-" you groggily mutter rising from the chair. Your shoulders ache and your legs tingle from the position you slept in but otherwise everything feels as it should. "You brought me in?"

"Well Aegon said he wouldve felt bad if you ended up sleeping on the floor outside... he told me what you said to him..." she hums. Helaena smooths out your attire, giving you a glance before she leads you to the bed. "Come, pick something nice. Youll need to look good for council."

"Council? Why would i need to go?" You grunt, staring at the various targaryen coloured dresses laid out for you.

"To give your piece of course silly. You must have your side heard, i fear my husband may get overruled if he is there by himself much longer." She ponders "Now pick and i will help you ready yourself"

---

Just like she promised, the Green Queen helps you ready yourself for council. You hair, done in a fashion similar to hers. You almost dont recognise yourself as you pass the glass windows, stealing glances at the new you. Arm in arm you walk to the war room where council is held in the tower of the hand. You stop at the door and feel your aunts arm slip from yours in order to hug you from the side. "Thank you again, my knightly niece, please give our dear Aegon the same strength and valor... there snakes in the grass, hidden like weeds that chok the crops" she wanders off, no doubt to keep the children company. You dont have much time to dwell on her words as you open the doors, steeling your heart, mind and body for the irritation it will have to endure in the following moments.

Silence follows upon your entry, whatever the conversation was previously, clearly not for your ears.

"And what is the Princess (Name) doing here? Last i heard they were on a marriage tour." Otto asked, feigned confusion in his tone as if he hadnt already figured it out based on last nights events. You hold back a scoff at his display, slowly walking around the table to stand at the side of the kings seat.

"I was, but i had to put a pause as a family emergency called my attention" you speak vaguely, watching as the council men squirm under your emotionless gaze. "Though once i help clear up matters here. I have every intention of completing my tour and finding a suitable lord husband. I was made aware by Queen Helaena that my Uncle and King may need my presence here to inform the council of the nights events." You glance around the room, noting that a key person seemed to be missing. "Where is my Uncle Prince Aemond? Does he not attend council as well?"

"He is on dragonback patrolling at the moment but he is set to appear shortly" Aegon says hands clasped "Why would you need him present?"

"Because this concerns him. His actions against his nephew, my brother, is what caused this to happen. And while all of you sit here throwing dirt on my mothers name for attempted kin-slaying and whatever else, the true kin-slayer remains unpunished, free to roam this very castle and cause untold havoc." You state bluntly. The room falls into tense silence. The heave a sigh to quell the rage bubbling. "I can assure this council that my mother, would never wish a tragedy such as the death of a son to befall another. Even if they had been her worst enemy, which, my sweet Aunt is not."

"What would you have me do then Niece?" Aegon sighs, "Aemond is my brother, and your own Uncle besides. Executing him would not bring him back."

"Are you not the King?" You spit eyes flaring "Do you let the capital crime of kin-slaying go unpunished in your city? Is it not part of your job to make your subject feel safe? What will the smallfolk think when such a thing goes unanswered." You gently take his hand and squeeze. "I would not ask that you kill him. As much as the thought may bring me peace. No, if you cannot bring yourself to exact the kings justice via death penalty, then strip him of his titles, and send him to the wall." You insist. As he considers your proposal, the doors swing open. The person you most loathed to see and the person of conversation comes in. At first, he is shocked to see you, his eye flashing with something you cant quite place before is shifts into something colder. More dangerous. A smug taunting grin fills his slim face.

"Why dear niece i had not planned to see you here." He coos "You truly have grown in to a beaitiful lady, who strongly resembles her parents. Tell me what brings you to kings landing? I thought you were making plans to be wed."

Biting back a sneer you straighten youself and force your face into something more unreadable. "My plans of marriage are still going ahead Uncle, but the thought of staying with my future lord husband had me feeling a bit homesick. So i thought i would make one last trip back to spend time with my precious family. Come to find a stop ploy set about to harm them, caused my your rash actions. Im glad i came when i did. I fear what may have happened would have further broken my heart."

The mention of storms end sees Aemond facade crack slightly. You press your advantage, tone sharp and clear. "I heard you werent in the castle at the time so allow me to bring you up to speed. Your... 'confrontation' with my brother which lead to his death, insighted retaliation from the rogue prince Daemon. Who sought to do harm to your kings children. Fortunately, due to my homesickness and intuition, i managed to stop this tragedy from reoccuring. Because of your actions, this council was called to bring about the appropriate response. I am merely here to give me side and act as the voice of my mother. Whom is the person wronged in this affair."

"And what is the kings 'judgement' on this matter? Hmmm?" He taunts stepping forward and staring down you and Aegon from his side of the room. Its a challenge. And everyone in the room knows it. "What punishment has he deemed fit for me?"

Leaning down you move to whisper in your uncle's ear. "This is the best way, i promise uncle. And, should the weight of the crown prove too heavy for you, im sure mother would be more than happy to unburden you. Aunty Helaena told me how stressed and unhappy you both were... how it was something neither of you wanted. You know in your heart of hearts that my mother is the true heir, she held that title for 20 years and grandsire never wavered. You mother herself said she would make a good queen and yet she has forced you to sit here? In a position she didnt prepare you for, nor one you wanted? Please use this moment to make a good choice, maybe even bridge our family together from the viper that wishes to tear us apart because he knows he cant control us." You breifly glance at Otto, who your sure heard parts of what you said. While he makes not indication that he has the tightening of his lips as the press into a thin line gives you all you need.

He heard. And he knows that you know his motives.

I will route you out, root and stem Otto Hightower. No one shall make a fool of my family, even if it is a bumbling drunk like Aegon.

You watch has the gear start to turn behind his eyes. When your gazes meet you see resolve and determination. It fills you with an odd sense of pride. He nods to himself, as if confirming his ducks are in a row, stands and adresses the room. "Aemond Targaryan. For the crime of kin-slaying your nephew Prince Lucerys at storms end, i charge you with acts of treason, and violence against crown. As punishment; you shall surrender you weapon, your title as prince of the realm, and be sent to the wall to take the black post-haste."

Aemond, Alicent and Otto look horrified at this decree. Stunned into utter silence from the weight of Aegons delivery. The prideful feeling from before surges in you again. Seeing him in this light, with the commanding of a king, grants you new perspective. You smile, and you notice him give you a sideways look. "Guards. Seize him, and prepare him for the journey to castle black." He demands. The guards are quick to act. Though Aemond, still in shock, does little to fight back.

"You grace please reconsider acting in haste-" Otto says, trying to seize control over the situation again. "The death of Prince Luke was an accident with no ill intent, with the potential of war so close should you really be listening to the daughter of women who benefits from your weakened state?"

"It is words like that that have turned this once great house unto the brink of ruin" you hiss, placing a hand on Aegons shoulder "My mother was declared heir 20 years ago, the realm acknowledged her. Bowed to her. She has every right to the throne by the word of widows law, decreeing that children of a first marriage shant be disinherited from title or land by children of a second marriage. Or did you forget that Otto?" She sneers forcing the older man to silence himself.

"Your family have taken my sons eye, and now... when the perpetrator is dead you wish to take more?" Alicent wails "As though 'saving' my grandchildren from would be assassins 'sent by Daemon' was not a ploy to have us indebted to you!"

"If i remember that night correctly your Grace, you were as much absent as my mother was. Can you tell me where you were?" You snap, firey eyes turning to her "And if my memory serves... your son instigated the four versus one fight and lost his eye with his own dagger that he fully intended to use against his nephews. Luke was defending his brother and their betrotheds. You also seemed more than content to draw the prince's blood in exchange. Which might i remind you? Harmed my mother in the process instead. Your son lost an eye over insults yes, but he did that himself. My brother lost his life over it because you both refused to let it end with the fact that Aemond was in a bed of his own making!" Tears prick the corner of your eyes as you stare Alicent down. Her eyes also seem to redden as your tirade winds down, memories of the night coming back as strong as when it had first happened. You feel a hand touch yours. You look in shock as Aegons hand holds the one you have placed on his shoulder. You look away from him, refusing to let him see your tears. Wiping them away furiously you clear your throat and move your hand gently from your uncle's grasp.

"I shall send a letter to my mother informing her of the new developments. I will stay until we get a response back and we shall go from there. I will take my leave if you have no further need of my presence Uncle."

"No. I wish for you stay, there are some matters i think may warrant some... new perspective." He smiles, taking his seat once more as Aemond is escorted out of the room in chains.

---

The meeting feels like it went on forever after that point. But as you try to recollect what was discussed, you find your brain bleeding out of your ears. You exit the room with Aegon and the pair of you wander the hall aimlessly. You follow the imaginary path back to the courtyard in the heart of the keep, staring up at the weirdwood you used to sit under when you were little. You grab Aegons hand and drag him with you. Plopping down on the ground you motion for him to join you.

"This isnt very becoming you know." He jests

"And when have you ever cared for that Egg?" you jab back, giggling. Your laughter stops when you realise that his isnt joining in. You turn and see the look on his face; like you have just physically slapped him. "Are you-"

"What did you just call me?" He interrupts voice small and unsure.

"Uh... Egg?" You answer hesitantly "Did... you not want me to? I overstepped didnt i? I know we werent that close growing up. But i figured since that business the other night we might try- OOFFT" your self-conscious rant is cut off as your knocked backwards by Aegon himself tackling you. Arms tight around your frame and head buried in your neck.

"Im sorry i was a prick growing up... i know we all felt the tension of our parents as children. Thats partly why i drank so much... its why i still do..." you sit quietly as you listen to him, wraping your arms around him and stroking his back. Waiting for him to continue "but you right... that night... it was the worst thing i couldve ever imagined. It gave me a kick i was sorely needing. I need to have my head one straight i know that... but the weight is too much. I dont want this and i dont know what im doing." He sniffs a little and shifts himself to look at your face. "Were you telling to truth? About giving the crown to Rhaenyra? She'd take it... and she forgive me?"

"Of course. I know she would. I would of course, speak for you diligence in trying to fix things and make the best of the situation at hand. Im sure she knows that this wasnt entirely your doing, and that is was people like Otto trying to grab whatever power they could once grandsire had left." You mumble, grabbing onto his cheeks "for all this familys craziness, for all the tension and animosity... she would never wish to do harm to her blood. We were all close at one point... im sure we can come back to that again." You soothe, smiling. He kisses your hairline, which coming from him feels a touch odd, but you accept gracefully. He help you up and you wander the halls again, this time in search for Helaena and the children.

"You are the only person outside Helaena ive shared such concerns with... i didnt know i needed that..." he mumbles.

"Well, im glad i could help. Now. Let us go find our Helaena and write these letters."

--- At Dragonstone ---

"She is WHERE?!" Rheanyra shouts panic plain in her voice "Why ever would she be there?!? Did the greens steal her from under our noses!?!" She frets pacing back and forth around the painted table.

"No mother, the letter states she came there after she saw Daemon skulking off the night of the funeral." Jace says offering the letter for his mother and queen to read. Her eyes scan with a wild madness, searching for a sign of any kind, only to come up empty.

"And what of Daemon? Has he responded to any of our own letters?" The Black Queen asks. Her son shakes his head. Rheanyra clicks her tongue and turns to reread the letter again. "We shall have faith in our girl for now, gods know that Aegon and Helaena use to have a soft spot for her... let us hope that is still the case. In any event we shall respond and use (Name) as an envoy to set our terms. With luck, no more blood shall be spilled"

Even with the authority in her voice she could not hide her worry and hesitation from her son.

"Ill write to her as well, see if she can sway Daemon back. He has proven he cannot be left to his own devices, if this letter from Aegon of people is trustworthy" Jace mutters. Bowing, he makes his exit, leaving his mother to stare solemnly at the flames crackling in the fireplace.

---

Later, you find yourself in the company of Alicent. Sitting at a small table in the sun of the courtyard. You awkwardly sip at your tea, not knowing why she has summoned you nor what you should say. You dont have to wonder long as the queen sighs and says quietly "I have only ever done what i thought was right for my family. What i thought duty and honor demanded of me"

"You once said my mother would make a fine queen... and then you place Aegon on the throne..." you say bitterly

"That was before your grandsire said Aegon was the prince that was promised to unite the realm."

You choke.

"Princess?!" Alicent gasps, jumping up and beginning to reach for you. You put your hand up and cough the remaining tea from your lungs.

"I am fine your grace" you wheeze "But what did you say?" Fear laced your voice.

"Viserys said that Aegon was the prince that was promised" she repeated shocked at your expression and tone.

"Youre wrong your grace."

"What?!" She shrieks

"He was referring to Aegon the conquer. The story goes 'From Aegons line, will come the prince that was promised who will unite the realm. His story will be a song of ice and fire' him and mother used to talk about it all the time when we were younger" you say, the more you speak, the more you see Alicent grow pale.

"...The Conqueror...?" She whimpers falling back into her seat. Rage begins to bubble forth again.

"You put your son.. on a throne he didnt want... based on words you had no conext for from an old man whos mind you turned to mush with milk of the poppy?" You seethe. Your fists clench at your skirts. All of this, all of this strife and chaos has happened due to a misunderstanding?!

Alicent looks like she is on the verge of tears. Hands shaking as she grasps the edge of the table til her knuckles are white.

"... a mistake..." she whispers "i thought-"

"Well you thought wrong" you snap, getting up and crouching beside her "but you can still make it right. I have received a letter from my mother, she has tasked me to be her envoy and speak for terms for her ascension. Your children and grandchildren shall be spared, she has made it clear no harm will come to them if they swear fealty to her."

"But i was told-"

"By whom? Your father? The father who made you forsake your friendship with my mother in order to gain the kings favour? You knew her better than him. Do you think she would? My brother and i were raised to take her place. Amd had you taken her offer to wed Jace and Helaena you wouldve all but secured peace within the family. I know you hold no love for my siblings and i... but we are not bastards. The mothers on our father and mothers side both had dark hair in their blood. And look-" you pull at clumps of your hair, showing the mix of silver and choclate locks. "Both sits atop mine head. Just like my grandmother" you stand and and dust your skirts. With a shallow cursty you turn to leave. When Alicents voice class out to you.

"How is a child your age so wise? So impetuous toward your elders? To speak with authority in a situation where you have none." The glare she gives is half-hearted, a vain attempt to command your obedience.

"Simple your grace. My mother fufilled her role as my mother and prepared me for any and all dangers of the world. Whether at court or the field of battle, the sharpness of my tongue and wit or that of my blade shall always be ready" You dip again and walk off. Leaving the queen to reflect.

---

When you reach your apartments, Aegon is there, pacing. Upon seeing you he brightens but a cloud still hangs over his gaze.

"What troubles you Uncle?"

"Do you really have to leave? When this is all sorted. You could just as easily find a suitable lord husband here. Helaena and I would find you a good match." He plea seems almost child-like, and you find yourself wonder just how long this side of him had been hiding. Needing an escape. Something or someone to cling to. You smile and open your door, guesturing him inside.

"It is not so simple Egg. I already have an arrangement with two suitable lords from the riverlands"

"Two?!" He gasps "I need names. Now" he demands

"Houses Blackwood and Tully. I organised to spend some time with each of their houses heirs to determine a match... unfortunately my time with lord blackwood was cut short. I intend to write him a letter explaining things and that i shall soon return after things conclude here." You explain, sitting at your vanity to begin writing. You can feel him shift and stare at the back of your head. "I will be but a dragon flight away. The riverlands are but a couple of hours on dragonback." You say. Tying the letter and sealing it you put it on the foot of your corvid friend and have her set course for Raventree.

"I know. But we have only just started to rekindle family bonds and you are already trying to leave again." He whines, grabbing your hands tightly "The children are happy, more relaxed with you here. I dont think i have ever heard Helaena speak as much nor smile as much before your arrival. The place feels brighter and less stiflingly". Aegon fiddles with the braceletts on your wrist. The soft clinks soothing. "I read the letter your mother sent. You are to be her envoy while we sort out how we are to manage the ascension."

You nod. "Yes, she would ideally like to get it done as quick as possible. As to avoid making things to messy and confusing for the smallfolk. While they dont necessarily care to sits the throne, it would do well to have to period between switching leaders be short and swift."

"Then lets make the arrangements."

---

The following morning arrives with the flap of dragon wings and dragon roars. You watch as your family approaches the gates of the Red Keep. Your mother and siblings smile and rush toward you exchanging tearful hugs and affectionate greetings.

"My girl! You were treated well? They havent tried to harm you have they? I need all the details, no matter how small." Rheanyra worries, checking for any hidden scratch or scrape.

"You worry too much mother. I had everything in hand, Aunty and Uncle were more than accomodating. Turns out i am indeed their favourite." You reply smugly, returning the hugs and kisses

"Rheanyra" Aegon stiffly coughs from behind you. You turn and give a small cursty to him. He smiles warmly at you. "Jaehaera was asking for you (Name), something about... fables?" He questions

"Oh! Yes, i was telling her about some of the Valyrian ones in the library on dragonstone. I will go to her now." With one last kiss to your brother and mother, to dash off to find your young cousin.

The air is tense between the two sides and Aegon feels a sense of regret having sent you to his daughter. Finding himself alone and needing an ally.

"A crown doesnt seem to suit you." Rheanyra states cooly

"I never wanted it to." He says back "And i be glad to get rid of it." Rheanyra seems shocked at the response. Her intial thought had been that it was part of his ambition. Clearly she hadn't considered that he too had provably been put here, mere a cog in a grander machine. An once of regret seeps in for her inital tone, her shoulders relax and she speaks her next words with a mother's gentleness.

"Well let see what we can do about that."

Later in the throne room scores of people gather for the seat to pass from one royal to another. The grandmaester does the rites. Standing at the front of the room, you stand between the two factions of your family. Acting as it newly formed bridge.

"Prince Aegon the second Targaryen. Do you, under the oath of the 7, hereby swear away your right to throne, to never ascend its steps even in the event that the new ruler cannot?"

"Yes, i do." The measter nods and then turns to Rhaenyra.

"Princess Rheanyra Targaryen. Do you, under the oath of the 7 accept the duty of Queen of the andels, the rhoynar and the first men, ruler of the seven kingdoms and protector of the realm?"

"I do."

"Then, with the gods and the people present as our witnesses, i hereby declare the princess Rheanyra, Queen Rheanyra Targaryen first of her name! All hail the Queen!"

Cheers erupt from the crowd as the crown of the conciliator is placed on Rheanyra's head. As she ascends the steps and sits on the iron throne she looks to you. Pride bursts on her face as she mouths a small 'thank you'. You shake your head and nod to Aegon and Helaena, who look more at ease then you have ever seen them. She nods, understanding your meaning.

---

With the ceremony concluded, you retire to you room. Despite all the work you have done, it is still not over. Daemon, has still been unresponsive to your mothers summons. According to her, he has cooped himself up in Harrenhal doing god know what.

"I will bring him here, kicking screaming if i have to" you remember telling her, clenching your fist around Seascale. "To not even be at your side when you most needed it... he does not know when to stop"

A knock on the door flings you to the present. "Come in!" You beckon. A shuffle of feet rush quickly to where you stand and had you not been bracing, you wouldve found yourself on the floor. "ACK!" You yelp comically. The twins laugh, now wrapped around your legs. "You two are a little too big to use my legs stilts!" You tease. They giggle again while nuzzling into your skirts.

"Is it true your leaving?" Jaehaera asks, big eyes staring up at you. You nod. "Why? Cant you stay with us? What will happen if we need you again like last time?" She whimpers.

You hear breaks for the two, clearly still distress and traumatised. You stroke both of their heads, giving big kisses. "Im only leaving to go and make sure something like this mever happens again. I promise to visit where ever you are. Thats what dragons are for." You smile.

"But i thought you were getting married soon?" Jaehaerys interrupts "what if your husband wont let you leave? Or he wont let us visit?"

"Then he will be an idiot to deny my family. And if he is an idiot i will divorce him and come straight back." You joke. Jaehaerys nods, reassured by your words. Your aunt and uncle watch the exchange with amusement. Looking at them you open your arms to them and they each take a side. "I am glad i managed to make things right between us... i was so worried the divide was too big..." you whispered to the adults.

"I for one, am glad you didnt give up." Helaena praises "this family is only formidable when we are three heads" she places a kiss on your brow before she ushers the children away. Aegon follws shortly, lingering at the doorway momentarily.

"If he is an idiot... come back to us and we will get you a proper husband... we will even make the last one look like an accident"

"EGG!" You howl, a laugh springing forth. "Neither of them are idiots, they would never deny me a thing. That i am sure. And i will visit, and write often."

"That is all we can hope for."

The door shuts with a soft click. Left with your own thoughts you stare at your room. This may be the last you see of it. Soon, you will choose Riverrun or Raventree. And with peace now hopefully secure, you will be able to pursue the life you mother wanted for you - one of happiness and if lifes pleasures.

There was only one thing left to do;

Confront Daemon.

---

Taglist: @tssf-imagines @accidentpronedork

[stellocchia]

Killer being incredibly touch-starved is something I've been thinking about for a while. We know very little about monster biology, let alone Killer's who's something in between, so I'm gonna base this on the effect of touch deprivation in the real world (which, yes, is a very real and highly studied thing. And no, the people using it as an excuse for why they're 'owed sex' are still full of shit, because to the human brain the kind of touch, as long as it's positive and well received, doesn't make a difference).

Killer, for his whole time with both Chara and Nightmare, is deprived of any positive touch. Nightmare stabbing him and forcefully manipulating his soul certainly doesn't count as positive, and most Chara did was cut him up for fun (and out of curiosity).

There is a chance for him to receive some affection in an expanded Nightmare's gang situation, as I refuse to believe that people stuck in such awful conditions together would not develop a certain degree of closeness. Still, they live under Nightmare, so they probably cannot afford to indulge in any form of comfort too much. And I don't doubt that, in such a tense situation, fights would also break out often. Meaning he'd most likely get more gaster blasters to the face than pats on the back.

With that out of the way, here are some of the symptoms Killer may experience:

Overwhelming loneliness

Strong cravings for affection

Feelings of depression

Anxiety

Heightened levels of Stress

Difficulty sleeping

Attachment avoidance patterns

He'd also most likely do things to emulate the feeling of touch like cuddling his cats a lot, laying under whatever heavy thing he can find, and taking hot showers/baths. After all, this is Killer we're talking about. These are a lot of feelings and uncomfortable sensations that are entirely out of his control, he's definitely gonna try and reign them in.

I do think that, of course, this would affect every Stage differently. And they'd probably go about dealing with it differently.

Stage 1 would have a conflicted relationship with touch. On one hand, it's hard for him to keep from showing the discomfort he's feeling due to the touch deprivation. On the other, he also always struggles with feelings of guilt regarding the fact that, in his mind, he put himself in this situation. He probably wouldn't think he deserves to feel better. And definitely wouldn't outright ask for a hug or to hold hands unless he was desperate.

He'd probably try to deal with it quietly. Probably running the shower as hot as it can get and hoping it gets rid of the itch in his bones. He has probably begged both Chara and Nightmare for affection before, though I doubt that ended well. I think Chara just pushed him away in Disgust, Nightmare probably made him regret asking.

I feel like later on with Color he's probably gonna need constant reassurances and frequent gentle reminders that he can ask for a hug whenever. And, if that feels like too much, he can sit close to Color, shoulder to shoulder. They can hold hands, and, when that feels like too much, they can interlock pinkies. There are ways for them to navigate around this. And I think Color would be happy to help from the get-go with him.

Meanwhile, with Stage 2 I've always felt like they probably dislike touch (something something they don't allow themselves to show any degree of vulnerability and never let go of control. Both things that would happen if they indulge in any amount of physical affection). To be clear, this does not mean that they're immune to the consequences of touch deprivation, it just means that dealing with them will be even harder for them.

During their time with Chara and Nightmare they'd probably use a lot of the good old "gaslighting themselves into thinking that everything is okay" method. Similarly to how they did with convincing themselves that they actually enjoy being hurt on the regular, eventually, they'd probably start believing it. Also, they'd be highly reliant on their cats if they have any around. Cuddling them does soothe a lot of the symptoms for quite a while, and those little balls of fur at least are not gonna backstab them.

Even once they're with Color, I still feel like Stage 2 would rather cuddle with animals than with other monsters or humans. They'd just be far more free to do so without the threat of Nightmare killing those little critters hanging over their head. Also! A lot of types of dance and stuff like theater can help stave off the touch starvation in a way that may feel more comfortable to them. In a lot of those situations, there's a ton of touch involved, but as they'd be able to remain professional about it, it would probably feel less like giving up control and showing weakness than the alternative of being physically affectionate with Color.

Stage 3 is an interesting one. I feel like it would be the most open to admitting (at least to itself) that they have an issue. However, to solve said issue would mean putting the body in danger and that's not something it's willing to do.

Still, it would try to mitigate the discomfort as much as it can. Trying to find soft things to wrap the body up tightly with. Trying to find small places where it can feel somewhat compressed. It would never try to ask either Nightmare or Chara for help. Ever. It hates them with a burning passion and, besides, it's fully aware that, whatever is wrong with them, is most likely the fault of those two.

It probably also would regard Color with distrust at first, but, eventually, as it comes to trust him, it probably would be more than happy to get some cuddles in with him. I do think its favorite thing would be to sleep all curled up around one another in whatever safe den it has built. And, of course, as it builds trust with more people, those people are gonna be let in too. Though that's gonna take time, because for Stage 3 to trust anyone, Stage 2 and Stage 1 have to trust them first.

Stage 4 my boy... it's suffering. Not only can it not remember any instances of kindness, however rare, the other 3 may have received, but it is also the one that would struggle the most receiving any kind of genuine help even after running away with Color. And, before that, it basically just gets treated like a dog. Though, no matter how much he'd want it, the treat for a job well done is never a hug or a pat on the head for it. Usually, it's just it being allowed some basic necessities like water, food, maybe even sleep if things went particularly well.

And it wouldn't try to soothe any of its needs by itself. Just like it doesn't eat, drink, or sleep if it's not explicitly allowed. If Nightmare or Chara wanted it to get a hot shower or some cuddles from its feline friends, they would have said it. Since they didn't clearly it's against the will of the Players, as they're the Players' mouthpieces. The same would go for Color not saying anything.

And, here's the thing, Color would struggle to show kindness to Stage 4 at first. Both because it starts off as hostile as it doesn't initially recognize him as an owner and because there is something fundamentally unsettling about a being so divorced from humanity and monsterkind wearing the face of his friend. Stage 4's biggest downfall is the fact that it is so other that even the kindest souls would struggle to not dehumanize it. It was created to be a tool and it doesn't recognize itself as anything more than that, so others often fall into the trap of doing the same.

Anyway, Stage 4 would straight-up weep the first time it gets a hug. And, seeing that, Color would undoubtedly feel like shit for ever thinking that Stage 4 wasn't just as lonely, hurt, and deserving of kindness as the other Stages.

[pankomako]

oh shit wait last time i wrote (i say wrote but i really mean came up with concepts for) my characters going through horrors i predicted a similar thing that happened to me. that was with boardwalk. what the fuck am i about to predict through my gang's bay concepts if im really going down this darker route with it

[todayisafridaynight]

[bitchthefuck1]

you know what, I actually will talk about this because it's bothering me. The issue with focussing so heavily on syd and carmy's potential for a romantic relationship isn't that there's something inherently unintellectual about romance or whatever, it's that a lot of people seem incapable of doing that without immediately flattening the story and ignoring or intentionally misreading any and all nuance for the sake of that romance. Every scene suddenly becomes about how it impacts their relationship, every analysis is done through a romantic lens, every frame or line of dialogue becomes about finding some easter egg or hint that "proves" these people should start dating. Their dynamic is absolutely a fundamental part of this show, but if you can only see it as a will-they-won't-they, you miss so much of what the story is actually trying to say with these two.

There are good versions of this story where their relationship is romantic and there are good versions of this story where it isn't, but as soon as you decide them being together is "the point," you lose the ability to actually judge the story for what it is, not what you want it to be.

[rearranging-deck-chairs]

the doctor isnt neurodivergent or autistic or adhd or nonbinary or genderqueer or asexual. what the doctor is, is Not From Here

[brionnnne]

note that i will only ever call mithrun "stupid" jokingly. by "stupid", i only mean "frustrating behavior that i am immensely familar with". seeing him do something that makes me groan aloud, closing my eyes, sighing "stupid (affectionate, mournful)". like when he fucking... his dumbass "i don't want to [use the bathroom] right now, so it's fine." oughh. i know you! i know you! that's not how that works!!! and he's smart!!! he's so smart... but god, god... he's kind of an absent professor. he's kind of a cloudcuckoolander. i love him dearly. he gets called a dummy, a little idiot, and i flick his forehead, a little bonk of hard-heads, like "try again, idiot. that's not how bodies work." and "ooh, 'that's not going to work'. yes it is. shut up, stoopid. stubborn little man, my god." rolling my eyes forever.

[hauntingblue]

Stampede aka another episode of luffy turning haters into dick riders just with his kind and big heart

[front-facing-pokemon]

[missazura]

what's up with old people being the most stubborn people alive

[aroaessidhe]

2024 reads / storygraph

The Liar’s Knot & Labyrinth’s Heart

books 2&3 in a fantasy trilogy set in a Venetian inspired city full of political intrigue

follows a young woman who conned her way into a noble family, a masked vigilante, and a crime boss, who eventually become allies while juggling multiple identities

and trying to save their people and city by joining a secret society to find origins of a corrupting curse, to eventually destroy the powerful magical objects at the heart of it

tarot magic & sigil/geometry magic, dreamworlds, sentient magical disguises