#oh god okay. i thought as a lil gift i answer for all timelines i write for so now.

[lavenoon]

AU AU AUs of choice, how would Sun and Moon react respectively to hearing Robin hum/sing on the job or from the other half of the house?

Answering for pre-reveal/ before the dynamics kinda blur together uwu

Main: Dusk takes a moment - he's used to banter, and an always vigilant Robin. So this is new, and before he can think better of it, he'll tease them with the newly acquired pet name "songbird." Will immediately regret it when Robin huffs and stops, whining and pestering them to continue for perhaps the entire mission. Later in the dynamic he may start humming/ singing to get them to join in again, and later in the dynamic, they might <3

Sun is busy pining, so mostly he does just that - depending on how close it is and how far they are in the friendship he goes from a happy little acknowledgement to himself to theatrically sighing with a hand pressed against the wall, wishing it gone, to maybe even just humming along loud enough for them to hear, inviting them to take it to the balconies or the backyard where they can share a space <3

Reverse: Dawn will do his damndest to pretend he's not hearing anything. He knows if they notice he's actually listening really, really intently, near reverently, they'll stop immediately and take offense somehow. It's rare enough they let their guard down like that, and he won't risk breaking that moment. Might find himself humming the songs to himself when he's alone later <3

God, man, Moon's just straight up pining. Sorry, but at this stage he has No Game, and apart from getting distracted and listening in for as long as he can he just. does nothing. If he likes the melody himself and not just because he heard Y/N hum/ sing it he'll look it up himself, maybe listen every now and then, and give himself away when he starts humming it where Y/N might overhear <3

Hatchling & Reverse Hatchling: For the neighbors very little changes, except that even Sun is more hesitant to reach out, and probably just sticks to mere pining. Both of them do it a lot though, lots of pining and lots of lamenting the fact that they cannot get closer to this symbol of an unbothered civilian life (oh, sweet summer children), that they have to stay away - they're so bad sorry not sorry

The agents have a bit more wiggle room - putting this after the fuck up and consequent apology in those timelines, neither will want to give Robin any indication that they don't enjoy their playful side, so any criticism or shushing will happen at worst in a tense situation, though Robin would be quiet in those. (Well, except maybe humming the Jaws theme when a group of hostiles is looking for them, and laughing at whatever hissed reprimand they get back - but that's on purpose annoying, not enjoying music for itself)

Dusk is more reserved than as a junior agent - he enjoys it, but feels like he's intruding when they let their guard down like that. He tends to not acknowledge it, doesn't look more than he has to, but stays quiet. It's like if he talks to them they will notice he's still there, intruding, and the moment will shatter, rather than realizing that they never even forgot that he's there, and let their guard down because of him, not despite <3

Dawn allows himself much more than as the junior agent - he looks, and he listens, and he smiles very obviously, may even throw in an affectionate tease or two if Robin doesn't seem too taken aback once they notice his attention. If he feels like they're shy now that he noticed, he'll hum a few tones, just to get them to start up again, and might hum along in the future, too <3

Dynamic Swap & Reverse: The neighbors are. Not even really pining, but a bad cocktail of emotions. Some pining, sure - but mixed with "Oh they can be happy, they can sound like this, it's just never in my presence" and the regret of how wrong they took things. Sun is huffier about it, more in denial, might walk away when he hears only to find himself trailing back trying to catch a few more notes. Moon wants to leave, feeling like he's overstepping, but keeps finding excuses to stay and listen just for a bit longer, just because it's one of the few times he heard them with their guard down

The agents on the other hand? The agents continue creating a cringe blast radius for everyone around Robin and them and neither of them are sorry

Dusk will annoyingly ask for an Encore whenever the opportunity arises, bribing Robin with food and sometimes even mission details to "come on, can you do the ABCs?" (or any other ridiculous children's song). He's a little shit and absolutely aware of it, one step away from playing announcer for their little impromptu performances. But he stays quiet for the singing itself, only perhaps humming along if the moment is quiet enough <3

Dawn I have to tell you might just propose a duet because how could he not? There's his equal at work, the senior agent who has acknowledged him and respects him, with the most beautiful singing voice, and he's supposed to not join in? No, he has no brakes (whether he should need some I'll leave to you) and he's having way too much fun indulging that he'd ever think about how he's laying it on really thick <3

[sweetaesuga]

in your heart | first date

pairing: jungkook x female reader

genre: fluff, lil smut, established relationship au, fratboy jk! ex-fuckboy jk! bookworm reader!

warnings: language, mention of smut, jk being in love🥺

word count: 2.3k

synoypsis: jungkook decides to take you on your first date to the carnival.

timeline: takes place right after the events of in your eyes.

↳ masterlist

If someone ever disclosed to you that Jeon Jungkook would be taking you on a date, you'll laugh in their face. It was unimaginable to even believe that. Even standing in front of your mirror and checking your appearance for the tenth time so you looked spotless in his eyes, it still hasn't struck you.

But it does when he shot you a quick text that he's near and be set to emerge. And that's how the sensation in your gut tingled more, merely stumbling your mind on how you have a date with Jungkook, someone you thought you'll never be on one with.

jungkook💓: i'm outside cond out

jungkook💓: come*

You inhaled, brushing off your uneasiness. Making your way outside, you watched Jungkook's lips crane up into a smile from the sight of stunning image of you. You were only wearing a oversized yellow sweatshirt with denim shorts narrowly peeking out from underneath that. His eyes travelled further more towards your face, suddenly stopping once he saw chunks of your hair were missing. Your hair reaching at nearly the end of your shoulders instead of near your stomach, where it long rested for most of the time he's known you. Of course, it wouldn't have been an outfit for you if you didn't feature your yellow pins that held back the sides of your hair or your extravagant makeup, that today was a yellow eyeliner fading into white at the end with drawn daisies enveloped along your cheeks.

"Woah," you couldn't help obtain the smile that was flourishing onto your skin. You stopped in front of his black Mercedes-Benz that his parents gifted him for his eighteenth birthday. "You look incredible, fuck, I can't even think right now," you laughed, opening the door to get in. "I can't believe you cut your hair, oh my god you look so good."

"Thanks, you don't look so bad yourself," you winked at him, tugging your seatbelt across your chest.

"You kidding me? I look like fucking shit compared to you, my god babe, I don't think I'll be able to drive if I can't keep my eyes on the road."

He really couldn't keep his eyes on the road. Sensing his sight on you, you kept advising him to look back onto the road but in spite of everything they always come across of you. He just couldn't shake the image off his head. Your hair was short and you looked so delicate it drove him to want to take you from behind, equal to the way he did it in the fraternity bathroom a week ago. His palms curled tightly around the wheel, bringing back the promise he made to you the following day to take things slow.

But how could he? You looked so pretty seated besides him while humming the words to the song echoing throughout the car. He wanted nothing more than to be in between your legs, pounding into you ruthlessly while he whispered filthy things in your ears only to be met with your sullen whines.

"What rides are you excited for?" your hand laid on his thigh, dangerously close to his crotch. It was almost like you were trying to provoke him, to pull over and take you in the back seat but by the curiosity in your tone he could deduce that those weren't your true intentions.

The one where you ride me, he thought glancing over at you in case some telepathy happened and you were able to hear him. "The one where it spins you around while you're strapped onto the sides."

"Of course you would be excited for that one," you giggled and removed your hand, disregarding Jungkook's breath of relief. "I feel like I'm going to vomit just by thinking about it, let's eat after we go on that one or the person besides me will have my food on them." he nodded, shuddering at the thought that it could be him ending up with food on him.

The drop tower and ferris wheel covered in bright colors with the purpose of standing out and attract residents, came into your sight. The big words of the amusement park’s name laying out in front of you. Jungkook glanced to see your lit up eyes, unable to contain his smile from your reaction.

"I swear, amusement parks bring out another side of you," he laughed, parking the car. You squealed happily, feeling nostalgic about being at one. Unbuckling your seat belt, you jumped out the car and paced over to the gates. Long forgotten, your date ran after you.

"They remind me of us when we were in high school. Gosh, do you remember when you practically forced me to go on the drop tower?" you laughed at the memory of Jungkook, who evidently never took no as an answer, I mean that's how he managed to land a date with you, begged you to come with him. He promised to hold your hand at all times even when waiting in line.  After long nagging and promises to buy you more books from Barnes & Noble, you agreed and you regretted it quickly. Your face was stuffed down a garbage can, throwing up the corn dogs that he treated you earlier.The embarrassment came when you looked up and discovered the people staring at you with compassion. Jungkook was nowhere nearby, perhaps holding your hair back rather he was flirting with a pretty brunette, attempting to receive her number.

"Don't remind me," he winced. He shook his head, getting rid of the memory. "I feel like a fucking asshole just by thinking about it. You didn't even talk to me for the rest of the day, hopefully it doesn't end like that."

His wishes became true. The night mostly consisted of laughter and Jungkook being the best boy ever. First, you went to the carousel. Jumping onto one of the horses while Jungkook took a seat right next to you. Second, you made your way over to the ride Jungkook was so eager to get on. Although it appeared scary to just be standing up and bound onto a wall while it spun, it was incredible. The only sound traveling through your ears was Jungkook’s cackling. Tears were brimming in your eyes by the end of it, not registering how hard you both laughed during all of it. The rest was sort of a blur to you, dragging Jungkook from ride to ride and more laughter.

You even faced the drop tower again. Hand resting against Jungkook's sweaty palm, he cautioned you to not look down to keep you from panicking. You kept your sight in front of you, watching the ferris wheels lights glow. Jungkook paid more attention to his feet hanging in the air, rather than the pretty sight in front of him, kicking them high in the air.You opened your mouth to ask him if he thought it was taking too long but before it could push past your lips, you suddenly drop to the floor at full speed. A horrific scream is let out, you don't even realize it's yours until you come back to your senses. Jungkook yelled out happily, legs kicking frantically while trying to pry his eyes open.

That man was insane.

You still thought that when you stared at him while he ate his hot dog, commenting on the flavor and combination every minute. A little ketchup is left behind near his lips, you reached out to clean it off. He stopped talking about how the bread didn't go with the sausage, eyes focused on you. You smiled at him before turning to look at the children in front of you blowing bubbles into the air while forcing their annoyed father to watch them. Jungkook's gaze is locked on your face, observing you munch on your corn dog.

"I seriously can't get over you with that haircut," he grinned as you whined at him to stop mentioning it. "I can't help it. You just look so pretty. What made you want to cut it anyway?" he took a bite out of his hot dog. His doe eyes gleamed with curiosity.

"I've always wanted to cut my hair short," you admitted, moving your corn dog higher so you wouldn't have to stick it down your throat to eat the rest. "It's just—you mentioned that you've always liked me with my long hair so I never tried cutting it so I could try to somewhat impress you. I was going to cut it a week ago."

Jungkook smiled at you when your cheeks flushed. "I do like you when your hair is long, it reminds me when we first met," he watched as your smile surfaced. "Your hair was fucking long when we met and overtime it kept getting shorter. But I don't care about how you look. You could be bald and I'll still want to be with you. Even though I won't have anything to hold on to when I fuck you, I'll have a plunger—"

"Okay, shut the fuck up you just ruined the mood," you rolled your eyes while Jungkook laughed at his own joke. He finished the last of corn dog. "Come on, let's go ferris wheel."

"Oooooo, are we going to be making out when we get to the top?" he's quick to grasp onto your hand, holding it tightly around his larger one. He's half joking but is serious about it. It's been a week since the frat party and his body was begging to touch you.

"No. I don't kiss on the first date," you smirked and walked in front of him. His eyebrows furrowed. So you weren't giving to fulfill his cravings of being able to feel you again.

"What the fuck do you mean you don't kiss on the first date? But you let me fuck you before the first date so it doesn't really matter."

"Actually it does. Remember what we said?" you glanced behind you to make sure he can hear you. "We said we'll takes things slow."

"I've waited too long," he whined, stomping on his feet and resembled a little child.

You shook your head, lining up to have a turn on the ferris wheel. Jungkook looked down at his feet, playing with the little pebbles. "Aren't you cold?" his sight on your exhibited legs, remembering how they looked spread out for him. "You should've worn some sweatpants or something that doesn't leave you freezing."

His concern over you being cold only expanded your smile even more. "I'm fine, Jungkook," he frowned at your response but kept nagging you about how you should've put something more comfortable on. "It is, they're extra stretchable," you moved along the line.

"They must be, for them to fit around your ass," you squealed when he pinched your butt. He earned a glare from the lady behind you but his attention was solely on you. You batted his hands away before giving him a warning to keep his hands to himself. You move forward leaving Jungkook behind. He called out your name and you turned around. He's pointing to the height requirement sign with a huge arrow where all passengers must stand at. "I don't think your short ass can get on," he joked. You sent him the middle finger, facing forward.

You remained like that until you were hopping onto one of the passenger car, Jungkook following close behind. His shoulder pressed up against yours as he pulled you closer. The two of you moved up, waiting for other people to get on before it could actually could commence.

Jungkook rocked the car back and forth slightly. You whined and slapped his chest but he only laughed at you and continued doing so. "Stop doing that, you know I'm not good with heights," you both looked out of the car, watching the lights from the amusement park light up.

The ferris wheel began moving, taking you back slightly. The neon colors popping out in the dark. The children holding their glow sticks and other toys that lit up can be seen from where you're seated. Jungkook pulled out his phone, aiming it towards it all.You squealed and hid your face when his camera travelled over to you. His laughter was enveloping your hearing and you felt like the teenager all again who had a fat crush on him and just enjoyed spending time with him.

He put his phone away, telling you he'll stop taking pictures. Peeking out from behind your hands, you saw that he's already smiling at you. "I can't fucking believe I managed to win you over," there's a huge lump on his throat but he forced his words out anyway. "I swear to god I won't fuck this up. I really want to be with you and I'm so sorry for not reciprocating your feelings earlier, it would've saved us a lot of time."

"Shh," the cart finally stopped at the top. "We have all the time in the world now. It's okay, we're okay now." Jungkook stared down at you, begging on the inside for a kiss. The timing was perfect, you were at the top, it would be like a perfect romantic first date story when he tells his family and friends about it.

You leaned forward to meet his lips, hand gripping onto the back of his nape. His lips moved furiously against yours, the car beginning to move once again. He pulled away, mind coming down from the blissful state he was in. Jungkook stared into your eyes before breaking out into a smile. He wondered if it's a dream, if he'll wake up from it anytime now and go back to just being your friend.

It really wasn't however, you were finally in his arms.

a/n: the only reason why i wrote in your eyes is so i can create a drabble series of the couple so i’m happy that i’m finally doing it🤧

[shima-draws]

I Took the Stars from My Eyes

...and then I made a map And I knew that somehow, I would find my way back...

Thanks to the brilliant @monsterunderthefedora​ for writing a couple of fics for my Timeloop AU, they inspired me to actually contribute more to my own AU lmfao so. Here I am c: (And thanks AGAIN for the awesome fics, bruh!! I really really appreciate and treasure and love them with all my heart so. You could say this is my return gift to you ^^)

Also I’m gonna put this up on Archive and FFNet in a bit, so please keep an eye out for it over there too! (It’ll be under the user Shima2112, just an FYI!)

As usual I’m a little shit who sucks at keeping things short so. You’re welcome, I guess. This is 4k words. Kill me now. Also hey, if you have no idea what the heck is going on in this fic, check out my Timeloop AU tag on this blog! Things will make a little bit more sense. Though I do sum it up pretty well in the fic too, your choice.

And, a brief summary: "Stop, s-stop it, please," Michael begs, crying heavily. "There's no point, Jer—you can't save me! Just leave me here. It's okay." "Shut the fuck up," Jeremy snaps, furious. "Don't ever talk like that. We're going to make it through this. And when we do, I'm going to kiss the hell out of you, Michael Mell." That's what does it. Michael's cheeks immediately flush with a bright pink color, enough to touch the tips of his ears. "Wh-what?" "One, two, three, go!"

This is based off the conversation I had with @monsterunderthefedora​ earlier over IM. I suggested a little something, and now I’ve gone and written about it...from my perspective of things! I hope you guys enjoy! And please don’t hate me for doing this to Michael //throws confetti

Footsteps thud loudly against the floor. Gasps heave out of his throat as he runs, breathless. The only reassuring thought he has is that his best friend is close behind, right at his heels. Having him here is more reassuring than anything.

"How much further?!"

"Down the hall, to the left! It's just outside the corridor!"

Jeremy finally skids around the corner, almost colliding into Chloe's back. Michael manages to stop right next to him, looking visibly shaken, his favorite hoodie drenched in sweat, blood and dirt. Jeremy is sure he looks equally as awful, if not worse. The circles under his eyes are the result of countless time loops before this, loops of running into dead ends, shattering windows and hungry flames devouring them all alive.

He's lost count of how many times he's been here, at Jake's house on the night of Halloween. The party had begun smoothly; it always does, but what soon comes to follow has caused him to relive the night over and over, stuck on repeat.

Most of the time, Rich is the cause of the fire. Sometimes, he isn't. But either way, it's a fated event. Something that always happens, no matter what the circumstance, even if Jeremy tries to prevent it from even starting. By now he's learned to stop wasting time worrying about when the fire is going to start, and more on how to get everyone out safely.

He hasn't succeeded with that. Yet. Hence why he's gone through so many timelines.

He should feel blessed that he's been given a second chance to save his friends from a burning doom—and a third chance, and a fourth, and a fifth, and all the way up until now. But he's sick of this, sick of seeing them die, sick of hearing them cry out for help or sacrifice themselves for somebody else.

He just wants to go home. Maybe curl up in bed with Michael and bury his nose into that faded red hoodie.

He's come to understand, over many time loops and endless conversations with his other half, that he is hopelessly and absolutely in love with Michael Mell. However, in the midst of all of this insanity, he hasn't really been in the mood to confess his feelings. It's always too hectic to say the words, too crazy and chaotic. It's never been a good time.

"What are you standing there for?! We have to keep moving!" He snaps, giving Chloe a shove.

The girl stumbles forward and swears at him. Well, at least that tactic worked. He's not here to babysit these guys; he tried that once already and it didn't end well. Knives got involved. Don't ask him how, he doesn't like remembering.

Suddenly the house lets out a horrible groaning sound, as loud as a freight train. Jeremy's eyes dart around in fear, looking for the source of the noise. What now? He can't remember what happens next, he's gone through this too many times to keep track. Events change in every timeline, leading to an infinite amount of possibilities of the ways the house can kill them.

"Shit!"

The cry comes from Michael, who is staring at the ceiling, mouth taut.

Jeremy doesn't have time to respond as the teen suddenly shoots towards him.

"Jeremy, look out!"

He feels a weight slam into his side, sending him sprawling across the floor. An enormous crash sounds from the ceiling, and he watches in horror as it collapses on top of Michael, showering him in wooden debris and bits of furniture from upstairs.

"Michael! No!" He shrieks, his voice cracking in the middle.

Immediately he's on his feet again, throwing apart pieces of wood and broken glass.

"Oh fuck," Rich breathes from several paces in front of him. The rest of the group turn around and race over to help, digging through the remains of the ceiling.

"Michael!" Jeremy cries out, shaking. "Michael, Michael, answer me! Michael!"

This can't be happening. He doesn't want to start over again. He doesn't want to rewind time and reset it all again!

"Jeremy, over here!"

He kicks up dirt as he goes, scrambling over to Brooke. She has uncovered a portion of the wreckage, revealing a red piece of clothing decorated with dust.

"Michael!" He screams, giving all he has to clear the rest of it away. Christine and Jake lean over to help, tossing broken pieces of houseware over their shoulders.

Finally a face appears amongst the mess, and Jeremy chokes on a gasp.

"M!"

Within moments he's in the taller boy's arms, his head cradled against Jeremy's chest.

"Michael," Jeremy whispers, rubbing dirt off his cheek with a sleeve. Probably not that affective since Jeremy's shirt is also covered in grime.

"...He's not answering," Jenna whimpers, shaking.

"Michael." The brunette tries again, withholding a sob. "Hey, c-come on, you knucklehead. Wake up. We gotta go."

"Jeremy..." Christine reaches out to him, her eyes full of sadness.

"No, no, no," Jeremy slaps her hand away, shaking his head. "He's fine. He's okay. He—he has to be..."

"Come on, you guys." Rich beckons them all away, to give them a little privacy. The others stand up and follow, silent and melancholy.

"Michael," Jeremy cries, shaking his friend. "Michael, Michael, wake up. I need you, M. I need my player one, come on, please..."

He lowers his head until it's resting on Michael's chest, bawling. It can't be over already. Not like this. How many times has it been, now? How many times has he seen Michael die like this?

Suddenly Michael's chest moves, slowly but surely. His breathing makes Jeremy's head go up and down. And then, like a miracle, he releases a quiet cough.

Jeremy shoots up, eyes wide.

"Michael?!"

"Ugh," Michael groans, his voice a low croak.

The brunette releases a yell of joy and tackles his friend, squeezing him tightly. His call alerts the rest of the gang, who come rushing over.

"Ohhh, Michael! Thank god! You scared the absolute shit out of me!"

"S'rry," comes a mumbled response. Jeremy looks up to see the shorter boy shooting him a crooked grin, his eyes-half lidded.

"Never do anything like that ever again, you asshole," he demands, reaching up to pinch Michael's cheeks playfully.

"Yeah, yeah...”

Jeremy sits up and helps Michael do the same, watching warily as he looks around, disoriented. There's something wrong with the way his eyes wander, almost lost, and there is a weird sense of panic emanating from him. But there isn't time to think about that, they have to get moving. So Jeremy hurries on to the more important questions.

"Are you okay? Is anything broken?"

Michael's eyebrows draw together and he slowly starts wiggling parts of his body cautiously. Finally he puffs out a breath, sounding a bit wheezy.

"No, don' think so," he manages to mumble, wincing. "'M definitely bruised though. And I hit my head real hard."

Jeremy frowns and brushes his hand against Michael's temple, making a noise of concern when something sticky and warm coats his fingers.

"You're bleeding," he observes, leaning over to inspect the damage better. It looks like there's a lot of blood, but Michael is awake and coherent, so it can't be that bad, right? He desperately hopes so.

"Jeremy, we gotta go," Brooke pleads, her eyes wide and her hair frazzled as she peers around anxiously.

"Right, okay," he nods, moving to help Michael stand. Rich comes over to assist, and both of them manage to stand the shaky boy up on his feet. The injured teen groans but steadies himself, shaking the dizziness off.

"You okay, M?" Jeremy murmurs, wrapping an arm around his best friend's shoulder for support as the group finally starts to move. Embers lick at their feet as they stumble amongst the debris of the fallen ceiling, looking for the next closest exit.

"Uhh," Michael swallows, his fingers clamping tightly down on Jeremy's shoulder. Terror flashes across his face for a split second and then he's grinning, albeit with a grimace. "Y-yeah. Just hurts a lil'. I'm fine."

Jeremy notices the slur in his words and chews his lip. Clearly he isn't as fine as he says, if the glazed look in his eyes have anything to do with it. But they don't have time to worry about that—they can fret over Michael once they're out. Or, if something happens and Jeremy's forced to reset the timeline again, there's no need to worry at all. He really hopes it doesn't come to that, though, even though that's the most probable outcome, as usual.

"Jeremy!"

Jeremy hurries his pace, Michael barely managing to keep up with him, and pales when he realizes that half of the floor is gone. The others are looking at him worriedly, their bodies slack with exhaustion, their eyes full of despair. They look about ready to give up.

But he isn't going to let that happen. They've come this far, they can make it this time! He's sure of it.

"We'll jump across," he says firmly, determined. "Jake, can you see a solid place to land that won't collapse?"

Jake looks somewhat surprised at being addressed, but he takes a moment to look across the gap and nod.

"Yeah. See that stretch of tile over there? That should be enough to hold us."

"Okay, good," Jeremy releases Michael after making sure he can stand on his own, and then walks to the edge of the chasm in the floor. Below is a sea of swirling flames, a death sentence to anyone who'd fall in. He gulps and starts to hype himself up. If he hesitates, even for a second, it's the end.

"I need one of you to jump over first," he turns to Jake and Rich, and almost laughs at the way they look terrified. If the situation were any different, he probably would laugh.

"Come on," the brunette urges, beckoning them forward. "One of you needs to get over there first to catch the rest of us."

"Why don't you do it?" Rich mumbles weakly.

"Do I look strong enough to catch you?" Jeremy deadpans, holding out his sorry excuse for arms. They look more like pool noodles, if he's being honest.

"Yeah, alright, I'll go," Jake sighs, his shoulders tending up.

Christine almost steps forward to grab his arm, but she holds herself back, waiting.

"C-can you make it?!" Chloe squeaks, chewing on her fingernails as she stands close to Brooke. Jenna is behind her, shockingly silent for once. She looks tired.

Jake shoots her a cocky smile, but it's half-hearted at best. "Course I can. Just watch."

"Be careful," Brooke whispers, trembling.

Jake nods and blows out an exhale. Then, he backs up, crouching low. Jeremy holds his breath.

Jake darts forward and leaps, flying across the gap. For a moment it looks like he's going to fall, but he clears the space easily, landing several feet beyond the edge of the hole. He holds himself still for a couple seconds, and then he straightens out, all of the tension in his muscles dissolving.

He turns around and gives the group a large, shaky grin. His face is white as a sheet.

"Made it!" He calls over.

"Okay, who's next?"

Jeremy looks at the rest of the group, and they all avoid his eyes, fear clearly written across their faces. He sighs and rubs his temples. He can understand how frightened they are, but now really isn't the time to be hesitant. They don't exactly have all the time in the world to stand here deciding whether to jump or not. The flames devour the walls around them, threatening to bring the whole house down, and if they don't go now they'll be caught in it. Michael had almost been taken out by the house before.

"Come on, you guys. The hardest part is over. Jake's over there to catch you. Unless you'd rather turn around?" He knows he shouldn't be so harsh, but if this is the only way to snap them to attention he will.

Christine takes a brave step forward but before she can get far Chloe pushes her out of the way, her heels clicking across the floor. She looks absolutely terrified, but she tries to hide it with a fierce expression.

"You'd better catch me, Jake!" She shouts, her hands shaking at her sides.

"I will," Jake says honestly.

Seeing that he's being genuine, Chloe takes a deep breath. Brooke covers her eyes, whispering, "I can't look," and Jenna shifts her feet from side to side, visibly anxious.

Chloe jumps, a frightened scream tearing out of her throat. Jake lunges forward and snatches her out of the air, his arms wrapping firmly around her waist.

They stand there awkwardly for a moment before he sets her down, eyes full of relief. Chloe throws her head up and huffs, announcing, "That was so easy!" But it isn't difficult to see just how scared she was as she distances herself from the hole, not wanting to be near it.

"I'll head over next," Rich says, and Jeremy nods.

The rest of them watch nervously as he makes his leap across the gap, skidding to a stop on the other side. He gives them a thumbs up, mouth stretched wide in a grin.

"Okay, Brooke, your turn," Jeremy coaxes her gently, his eyes flickering to the oncoming wall of fire behind them. "Hurry, now."

Brooke stays in place and shakes her head, tears gathering in her eyes. "I can't. I'm too scared!"

"Hey, hey," Jeremy places a comforting hand on her shoulder, trying to seem reassuring.

"It's gonna be just fine, Brooke. They won't let you fall. They'll catch you."

The blonde sobs and buries her head in her hands, trembling. "B-but what if I do fall? What if—"

"Just don't think about it." He says firmly, cutting her off. "Run and jump. Don't even think about the "what ifs". If you do, you'll just psyche yourself out."

She peers at him through the gaps in her fingers, sniffling.

"Will you help me?"

He nods, his hand sliding down to her back to guide her forward. "Yeah. I'll be right here, okay?"

Brooke rubs her arms and gazes across the pit, managing a nervous smile at Chloe, who waves at her from the other side.

"That's it. You can do it. Alright, on the count of three. One...two...three...jump!"

Brooke springs into the air, soaring across. Her hair whips wildly out behind her. Simultaneously Rich and Jake reach out to catch her. A horrible second passes and Jeremy's stomach clenches, watching as Brooke falls closer to the edge...

The boys both grab an arm and haul her up, and she embraces them both, crying. Jeremy breathes out a sigh of relief. Now there's only four of them left, and time isn't really on their side at the moment. The fire is fast approaching, creeping slowly across the wooden floorboards, mere yards away from Michael's back.

Jenna goes next, and it's so strange not to see her upbeat and hyper as she usually is. Her face is solemn as she locks eyes with the others from far away. She pumps herself up before taking flight, landing safely on the opposite end.

Jeremy turns to Christine, who gives him a silent nod. It seems she has readied herself while the others were traveling over to the other side. She makes it over in one piece as well, almost tripping as she touches down on the floor.

"Okay, Michael," Jeremy hurries over to his friend, who is staring blankly ahead, his vision unfocused.

Jeremy notices this and regards him worriedly. "Michael?"

"Hmm?" Michael tilts his head towards the taller teen, and his eyes seem to look right through him.

"Are you okay? You look really spaced out," Jeremy whispers, even though he knows the others are too far away to hear.

The bespectacled boy nods slowly, biting his lip. "Mm. Yeah. Jus'...still a lil' out of it, I think."

"Shit, how hard did you hit your head?"

And Jeremy reaches over and smooths Michael's bangs back, flaring in alarm when he realizes the other teen is very, very warm.

"Jer," Michael murmurs, searching for his sleeve. Once he finds it he grabs on, fingers clenching. "Jer, I don' feel so good."

For some reason, hearing this makes Jeremy want to cry. "I—I know, M. Just...just a little longer, okay? Once we get out of here we'll get you checked out. As soon as we make it over this hole—"

Michael shakes his head, preventing him from finishing. He has a look of sad acceptance on his face, his hand falling to his side.

"You go on without me, Jer. I don' think 'm gonna make it."

Fear shoots up Jeremy's spine like lightning, and suddenly he can't breathe—and that's not because of the choking smoke in the air. He releases a pathetic whimper and latches on to Michael's arm, tugging him along.

"No, no, don't say that, Michael," he whines, pulling him away from the oncoming fire.

"We—we have to make it out. We're going, we're going together."

Michael halts, gently moving his arm out of the brunette's grip.

"This's it for me," he continues softly, as if he's trying to soothe Jeremy. "You'll havta beat the game without me, J."

"No!" Jeremy shouts, tears already beginning to slide down his cheeks, making tracks through the dirt on his face.

"I'm not leaving without you! I won't do it!"

"Please, just go. There's no time—"

"Shut up! Shut up, shut up, you're coming with me and that's final! Don't you dare—" He heaves out a sob, voice breaking. "D-don't you dare give up, M-Michael. Don't you d-dare leave me again..."

Michael regards him sadly, tears clinging to his own eyelashes.

"Just...just c-come on. Why can't you do it? You can jump, r-right? Or is there something wrong with your legs...?" At this, the boy in the red hoodie glances away, looking pale.

And then it hits him.

"No...no way," he mutters, backing away. He tosses his head from side to side, clenching his teeth.

"No way...no...! No, that can't be—!"

"That's why I can't go," Michael admits, his voice more small and timid than Jeremy has ever heard it before.

The way his eyes look so lost and distant, the way they can't focus on anything, even the way he stumbled through the house, holding onto Jeremy's arm for support.

He's blind.

The impact from the ceiling falling on top of him had taken its toll. Severe head trauma, combined with a limited amount of oxygen—yes, that was enough to rob somebody of their sight and render them helpless. Jeremy had no idea if it was permanent or only temporary, but it was enough. Enough to prevent Michael from escaping. Enough to make Jeremy have to rewind time again...

No. No. I won't. I won't restart, not this time!

"We're going," he says firmly, looping his arm around Michael's. The other boy's face becomes panic-stricken.

"Wh...what are you doing?! Are you insane?!"

"Yes," Jeremy responds without any hesitation. He's been through so many time loops now, he'd honestly be more surprised if he was still sane. "I'm getting you over there even if it means I kill myself in the process."

And it's these words that make Michael start to struggle, batting his free hand against him in an attempt to break free.

"No! Let me go! Jeremy—you'll die!"

"We won't know until we try! And I'd rather die trying than give up and be burned to death." He hisses severely, backing up. They're going to have to make a run for it. Luckily the path ahead of them is clear of any debris, so Michael doesn't have to worry about tripping on something he can't see.

"Stop, s-stop it, please," Michael begs, crying heavily. "There's no point, Jer—you can't save me! Just leave me here. It's okay."

"Shut the fuck up," Jeremy snaps, furious. "Don't ever talk like that. We're going to make it through this. And when we do, I'm going to kiss the hell out of you, Michael Mell."

That's what does it. Michael's cheeks immediately flush with a bright pink color, enough to touch the tips of his ears.

"Wh-what?"

"One, two, three, go!"

With his shout the two of them dash forward, putting all they have into their legs. Michael lets out a terrified wail, and then they're airborne, weightless. Jeremy can feel the intensity of the heat right below him, can feel the flames touching the soles of his sneakers—he can hear Michael yelling from next to him, his arm holding him so tightly that he can feel his bones creaking—he sees the other end of the floor, rapidly approaching, sees Rich and Jake and Jenna as well hold their arms out wide.

He and Michael crash headfirst into the three of them, and it's enough to make them topple over in a heap. Christine, Brooke and Chloe gather around them, shrieking worriedly, and help them to their feet.

"Jesus Christ, Jeremy, that was the craziest shit I've ever seen you do," Jake gasps, standing up with Jenna's assistance.

"Why the hell did you two jump at the same time?!" Chloe exclaims, looking more scared than angry.

But Jeremy pays them no mind. Instead he rolls over and flops on top of Michael, whose sightless gaze is fixed on the ceiling. He seems to be in shock, and a little winded.

"I told you we'd make it," Jeremy murmurs, and then he kisses him fully on the mouth.

Gasps erupt from the other members of the group, and he's almost sure he can hear the sound of a camera shutter going off in the background. He's too far gone to really care, lost in the scent of his favorite person, even though it's masked by smoke and dust and burnt wood.

It takes a moment, but Michael finally responds, groaning happily into Jeremy's mouth. Even though their world as they know it is falling apart at the seams, even though the roof might crash on their heads at any moment—they drown in each other, teeth clacking, tongues tussling. It's messy and it's sweet and in the midst of all this chaos it's the most wonderful thing in existence.

Eventually the boys break away, completely breathless. However they look livelier than they have in a forever, across countless time loops. Jeremy has never felt more alive than he does right now.

They stagger to their feet, dizzy, elated. The remainder of the teens' expressions show something Jeremy hasn't seen in a while: happiness. And hope, too. And maybe a bit of amusement as well.

"That was hot," Brooke comments offhandedly, squealing when Chloe elbows her in the side.

"Well..."

Christine smiles and starts to walk ahead, being careful of the hanging wood up above. The rest of them chuckle and start to follow her, picking their way through the mess.

"Hold my hand," Jeremy whispers, reaching over to interlock his fingers with Michael's. The other boy squeezes his hand, his expression showing nothing but utmost love and trust. Jeremy is his guide now, his escape, his sight, his freedom.

"Don't let go. Stay with me."

They follow the gang further into the smog. Their future is so uncertain. They may not even get to see the light of day. They might have to start all over from the beginning, in a new timeline. And if they do make it out, Michael might stay blind forever. But for now, they hold on to each other, and they will for their hope and their love to carry on into the future—whether it be their own, or them from another time—and take a step forward.

"Always."

Da da daaaaah, and that’s the end!!

I hope you all enjoyed that angsty fluffy sappy mess! It was fun to write~

Also, a couple of things:

*Jake’s house is three stories. I figure he probably has rich parents. Or, ya know, HAD. So in this fic they’re on the ground floor--so it’s possible for the ceiling to cave in and the floor to collapse as well. Just to clear that up if it was confusing!

*I have NO IDEA about blindness and if it can really be caused by a ceiling falling on your head. I’m sure it would hurt though. I did a little research and it is possible to go blind from a severe head injury. Combined with all the smoke Michael had been inhaling, he lost a lot of oxygen, so it’s probably possible an accident like that and the oxygen deprivation could take away his sight, even temporarily. But don’t quote me on that. It’s fiction, I’m allowed to bend the rules a little, right?

*I have a lot more ideas for this AU I might write in the future, who knows. But...if you guys are interested, and if you want to come and talk to me about your own ideas--please do! The possibilities of what could happen in all the different timelines are endless, so come and suggest stuff! I’m totally open to chatting about all the different tragedies these kids could go through--//shot (And hell, I already have such awesome support already, from the person who wrote me short fics about this AU--which are also under my Timeloop AU tag here, so please be sure to read them they’re so awesome!!)

Okey thank you for your time, have a great day, I hope I didn’t completely destroy your hearts and souls with this. IT HAD A HAPPY ENDING. I have a legit excuse hhh