#ok he made everyone leave the moon because it's way too fuckin dangerous but like. poor Russian robot.

[tin-can-iron-man]

You ever see posts about how a character is bad and you're just like "bro that isn't even their final form" (and I still love them)

[thiswasinevitableid]

for the meet ugly asks, 08 with the ot4 if that’s ok? (the note in the locker one, in case I have the wrong number). rating up to you! :)

Here you go! I went NSFW

Joseph is not missing his chance. Not again.

If he’s keeping count, which he’s certainly not, he’s missed fifty-two chances between fifth grade and now.

Barclay’s family moved next door in the summer of 1951, causing eleven year old Joseph to learn very quickly what it’s like to have someone whose side you never want to leave. Lucky for him, Barclay felt the same way; they were in the same boyscout troop, were each others first choice for sleep overs or outings where they were allowed to take one friend. When they hit high school, Barclay went out for football because Joseph did (and Joseph did because that’s what upstanding young men do). They played together all four years, Barclays growth spurt rendering him doubly dangerous on defense and the dominant source of Joseph’s late-night fantasies. Joseph did debate club alone, but Barclay joined him for chess club. And when Barclay bought his car, his first stop was to take Joseph cruising, just the two of them.

Unluckily, Joseph’s never worked up the nerve to tell Barclay how he feels. This may be why he hasn’t had a date since the spring hop two years ago, while Barclay’s had quite a few (cheerleaders and band boys alike can’t seem to resist his physique and general gentleness).

That all changes today. Joseph slipped a note into Barclays locker right before lunch that conveyed all relevant information.

Dear you,

Drive in on Friday? We can park in the back row.

Love,

Joseph.

He’s sitting in his normal spot on the bench near the cafeteria, doing his best impersonation of someone who’s heart isn’t in his throat.

As he’s scanning the crowd, none other than Duck Newton begins weaving his way over to him, leather jacket reflecting the sun and his black hair combed back as always. Joseph was wary of him for years--as any good square is of kids from the rough side of town--until they got paired together in biology their senior year. Duck, who seems not to give a shit about school the rest of the time, is incredibly good at science. And he’s funny, nearly got them both kept after class for cracking a joke that made Joseph lose his breath laughing.

The problem is, right now he’s waving a very familiar piece of paper.

“Gotta say, I’m pretty fuckin flattered, Joe. But, uh” he leans on the table, smiling playfully, “I gotta make sure ‘Drid is okay with me playin backseat bingo with someone who ain’t him.”

“Um.” Joseph shakes his head, trying not to focus on the idea of Duck holding his head in his lap in the dark corner of the drive in, “I, I’m so sorry. I must have been nervous enough to put the note in the wrong locker. Not, not that you’re not a catch.”

Duck raises his eyebrow, “1650 or 1652?”

“1652.”

“Huh. Well, I got shop class with Barclay. You want me to just give it to him?”

“No.” Joseph holds out his hand.

Duck places the letter in it with a shrug, “Suit yourself, slick. See you later.”

Joseph rips the letter to shreds, tosses it in the trash, and hopes that’s the end of this humiliating error.

It’s not.

“Hello, Joseph.” Indrid Cold rests a shoulder on the locker next to his. There’s no one in Kepler High quite like him; his family moved from California three years ago, which most people use as the explanation for Indrid’s red glasses, crystal necklace, and pale hair that is always a quarter-inch shy of the principal writing him up for it. He’s never struck Joseph as the kind to fight, but he did mistakenly proposition his boyfriend three hours ago.

“Indrid. How can I help you?”

The taller boy hands him a folded slip of notebook paper, “By taking me up on this invitation.”

Before Joseph can ask any questions, Indrid is disappearing down the hall. The paper contains a hand drawn map to an X, under which is the word “Bash” but nothing else. Joseph has never been invited to any kind of party that needed a secret map. He mostly just gets invited to get togethers because he’s the captain of the football team. No one talks to him once he’s there. Well, except Barclay.

He stares at the map; he doesn’t have to be home until ten. He’s never going to get a chance to make the scene like this again.

Joseph shuts his locker and hurries to his car.

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

Indrid’s remarkably accurate map leads him to a dirt parking lot beneath the sign for Amnesty Point. As he follows the signs for the “beach house,” a Coaster’s song drifts through the air, underscored by splashes from the lake to his right. He’s deep in the woods on the wrong side of the tracks, but even so he’s unprepared for how everyone lounging around the weathered picnic tables on a shaded patio stops talking and stares at him.

“Who the fuck invited the square?” Someone whispers, making him wish he hadn’t left the map in the car.

“Joseph?”

He turns so fast the gravel flies. Barclay, clad in a grease-stained apron, is smiling so bright it evaporates his nervousness.

“Hi, big guy.”

His friend hoists him in a hug, “I’m so glad you’re here, Indrid said he invited you but I wasn’t sure you’d come.”

“He piqued my curiosity. Um, is this the new job you were so cagey about?”

“Yep. Mama--she runs this place--pays real well, but tries to keep Amnesty Point kinda secret. Cops just love busting places like this up for no reason.”

Joseph nods, still a little hurt Barclay didn’t trust him enough to share where he worked. His friend must notice the dip in his smile before he hides it, because he adds, “It’s gonna be even better working here now that you know where to find me. Listen, um, I gotta get back before Jake sets something on fire, but the burger stand closes at eight. I’ll come find you after that. Duck and Indrid are down by the dock, if you want company.”

He absolutely does, since the alternative is looking even more out of place by being the only person here alone.

When he hits the grey sand, Duck is just pulling himself back onto dry land. The half moon scars on his chest are the only reminders of the trip he took to San Francisco last summer.

“Glad you showed up, slick. Day like this, the water is the only nice place to be.”

“I wish I’d known, I would have brought my swim shorts.” Maybe if he rolls up his pant legs he can get some relief from the heat…

“Could just go in your boxers. I won’t tell.” Duck winks.

“Nothing is also allowed.” Indrid lilts, floating past on his back.

Joseph looks at him, then at the planks of the dock because Indrid is also demonstrating that second option without a care.

Duck snickers, “sugar, put somethin on, you’re scandalizin’ the poor guy.”

“Very well. But I demand help with the sunblock in payment for quashing my self-expression this way.”

“You’re soundin like your pops there, ‘Drid.”

“....ugh, you’re right.” A splash and the soft fwup of a towel, “alright, Joseph, I’m decent.” He is, but his swim shorts leave very little to the imagination. Joseph stares a moment too long, notices Duck smirking when he looks away.

The greaser holds out a bottle of sunblock and they get to work.

“Goddamn, this wouldn’t take so long if you weren’t so fuckin long everywhere.”

“You’ve never complained about that before.” Indrid grins, red sunglasses hiding his eyes. He doesn’t lift a finger to help them, but Duck seems to get a kick from it. Joseph wonders if he spoils Indrid like this in everything they do. If Indrid ever does it back.

(If either of them would do it for him).

They spend the evening talking, Duck skipping stones and Indrid sunning himself while Joseph dangles his legs in the water. When they get back to the beach house Joseph receives fewer stares, Duck and Indrid’s company substituting for cool. He and Duck get a real dinner, but Indrid opts to down three Cokes in place of a meal.

When Barclay closes up shop, he’s immediately at Joseph’s side. Joseph is about to suggest they all go for a walk when Indrid winks at Barclay and steers Duck towards the trees with a promise to see Joseph at school tomorrow.

“You get on okay while I was working?” Barclay starts them on a path towards the edge of the point.

“I did. It was actually really nice just to spend time talking with people who like me. Or at least don’t hate me enough to shove me in the water fully clothed.”

“Nah, they’re not those kind of guys. Hell, it was their idea to invite you here. I was, uh, I was too shy.”

He stops, turning to face Barclay, “what do mean?”

“Duck told me about the note.”

“Oh lord.”

“Not on purpose, he just mentioned he’d seen you and when I asked how you were doing, well, you know he can’t lie for shit. So Indrid suggested we invite you out here.”

“Out of pity?”

“No.” Barclay frowns, sets his hands on Joseph’s shoulders, “Joseph, why didn’t you just ask me out in person?”

“I was too nervous. I thought it might ruin everything.”

“Not a chance, blue eyes.” Barclay rumbles. Then he’s kissing him, gentle and slow, whimpering when Joseph kisses back and cups his face. When they part, he’s certain there’s nothing but air under his feet.

“Can we do that again?”

“Not tonight. Your curfew is still ten.”

“Shit, you’re right, if I don’t get on the road I’ll be late.”

“Lemme walk you to your car. I gotta hang around since I’m Indrid and Duck’s ride home tonight.”

“Do you want to go get them so we can all leave together?”

Barclay chuckles, tips his head towards the woods where a faint, rhythmic grunting cane be heard.

“Oh.”

“Yeah, not gonna ruin their fun.” He pulls Joseph into a much more heated kiss, then sighs, “get home safe, blue eyes.”

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

Joseph suffered through both the personal hygiene class at school and his father’s lecture on what to expect now that he was truly a man. But nothing in either of those taught him what to do if he’s so hot under the collar he can’t focus but the guy who’s causing it won’t just fuck him.

He and Barclay have gone out every Friday for the last month, steaming up the car windows with their kissing sessions. They tried to work out who was supposed to give who their varsity jacket and settled on just trading, Joseph smiling whenever he spots Barclays name on his back. And Barclay tells everyone Joseph is his boyfriend with a level of pride he never gave their state football wins.

But he won’t go all the way with him. One Sunday afternoon they were listening to records in Barclays room when the larger boy rolled across the rug to straddle Joseph. His hands were hot and a little rough on his cock, Joseph moaning into his mouth as he came in under a minute. Before he could reciprocate, the front door banged open, announcing the return of Barclay’s parents. His boyfriend told him not to worry about it and kissed him on the cheek.

He’s worried Barclay loves him but doesn’t want him. He’s worried that if he ever does, Joseph will embarrass himself, be so inexperienced and inelegant he’ll turn him off forever. He wonders if he can entice Barclay to ask him to fuck so he doesn’t have to admit the embarssing intensity of his desire.

“Duck? Do you, um, do you think I’d look better if I dressed like you?”

The greaser looks up from his notes, “Maybe? I mean, I dress like this because I dig it. You wanna try it, go wild.”

Joseph nods, intending to drop it. Instead, he slows his stride by Duck during their laps in gym.

“It’s just, I’m worried I’m too square for anyone to be really into me.”

“Joe, what the fuck is this about?”

“Newton, I heard that! That’s an extra lap.”

“Son of uh, hold on, are you worried about Barclay? Because he’s so into your goody-goody thing I’m surprised he ain’t asked you to fuck him with your report card.”

“Stern, you’re done, get off the track!”

He jogs to the bleachers, Duck’s words rattling around long after he’s hit the locker room.

“You’re really worried about this, ain’t you? You’re smart, slick, but I swear sometimes you can’t see what’s right in front of you.” Duck is behind him, still in his gym clothes while Joseph is half changed out of them. They’re both dawdling, the locker room empty save for some other stragglers near the bathroom.

“Duck, if I were in high demand, I’d be getting more, um, attention than I-”

His sentence is cut short by Duck yanking him down into a kiss, lips salty with sweat and so demanding Joseph wants to get on his knees.

Duck pulls back, pats his cheek, “Like I said; right in front of you.”

With that he waves and leaves the room the back way. Joseph can’t even be mad for cutting school; right now, he’s almost ready to follow him.

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

“I really must thank you again.” Indrid clears the low table of his math notes, “my focus is such that I struggle with math much more than I’d like. Having someone sit and walk me through it in a calm setting helps a great deal.”

“I’m always happy. Barclay can too, if you ever can’t get a hold of me.”

“Oh, I know he can. He helped me last year.” Indrid stretches his legs; they’re on the floor of his VW Westfalia. His parents let him live in it on the property behind their one-story house as long as he continues to be a cooperative member of the household.

“I didn’t know that.”

“It was only a few times, though he often lingered when we were through.” Indrid’s emphasis makes Joseph blush.

“Duck and I weren’t going steady yet. And my cocksucking skills are not the stuff of legend for nothing.” Indrid smiles, dreamily.

“Oh. Um.” Joseph shifts his notebook into his lap.

Indrid sits up straighter, “I apologize. I, ah, I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable.”

“I’m not sure that’s what this is.”

Indrid cocks his head, “No? Envy perhaps? After all, you’ve had years to dream about him, to hope you’d be the first, and here comes a skinny little freak from the coast to beat you to it.”

“You’re not a freak” Joseph says softly, “I, I can’t say I blame Barclay for taking you up on it.”

“He does have excellent taste” Indrid looks pointedly over his glasses at him. The heat under his skin doubles as Indrid crawls forward, “you know, Duck and I have an...understanding. But if you and Barclay do not, I can stop. I mean, I can stop regardless, if you don’t want this.” He lowers to his belly between Joseph’s legs, nuzzles his fly with a hum.

“I, I--ohlord” He moans when Indrid mouths at his slacks; he’s getting hard, if he had his way he’d lay down and let Indrid suck him off until he came on his glasses. But he knows he won’t enjoy it if he isn’t sure how Barclay feels.

“I, we should stop. Please.”

Indrid sits up, smiling, “Of course. Would you like to stay for dinner? My mother is making fish stew instead of tofu salad for once.”

“...I’d love to.”

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

“I didn’t know Amnesty owned all this.” Joseph let’s Barclay guide him through the trees.

“Yeah, Mama’s family bought it years ago and she’s hung onto it through some seriously nasty shit. Hah, there they are.” Barclay waves to Duck and Indrid, resting against each other on a massive, checkered blanket. His boyfriend sets the picnic basket down and then, confusingly, turns off the lantern Duck brought.

“Okay, baby, there’s something I’ve got to ask” Barclay looks at him, “do you think I don’t wanna make it with you?”

“Truthfully? Yes. You, you’ve barely gone beyond some heavy petting, meanwhile Indrid was offering to blow me.” He slaps a hand over his mouth; there go all three of these relationships.

Barclay shrugs, “He told me about that.”

“Honesty is important. Most of the time.” Indrid grins.

“Blue eyes, I’m crazy about you. I’ve just been going slow because I was afraid I’d stress you out. I know how you get, Joseph. You put so much pressure on yourself to do everything right, I was worried you’d try so hard to be perfect for me that you wouldn’t enjoy it at all.”

Joseph stares into deep brown eyes, eyes he’s loved since he was a boy. Then he laughs softly, rests his head on Barclay’s shoulder, “You really do know me well, you know that.”

“Oh, oh baby” Barclay holds him closer, “you really think there was a way of touching me that’d disappoint me? Fuck, just getting to kiss you makes me the happiest guy in the state.”

“That being said” Duck drawls, “aint there somethin about practice makin perfect?”

“I, are, is this really what you three want?”

“Yes” Indrid nods, “but if you don’t, well, we shall never speak of it again.”

“I do. Sweet fucking christ I do.” He kisses Barclay ferociously as the other two scoot closer.

“Hmm, I believe we should let seniority decide. Barclay, what’s your preference?”

His boyfriend pulls back, kissing his jaw, “Do you wanna blow me, blue eyes?”

“So badly.”

“That settles that. Duck, what about--ah, I see you’re already taking off your pants, so I guess you’re fucking hm. He’s fucking you? Ah, semantics.” Indrid waves his hand dismissively.

“Wait, does, do we have a rubber?”

Duck pulls one from his wallet, “never leave to see this one without one. I know how he is.”

Indrid pecks his cheek, then grins, “I believe, Joseph, that leaves me to help you with your hand jobs.”

“Fuck, yes.”

“On your back, baby.” Barclays nudges him and he falls onto the blanket. For a moment only the trees and stars look down on him; then Barclays face fills his vision as his hands open his fly and guide his cock out.

“AHshit, shit that’s good.” He bucks as his boyfriend jerks him off steadily, his cock standing at attention in a matter of seconds.

“Okay big fella, you go get your dick sucked.” Duck straddles him. He’s down to only his undershirt, his muscular thighs, soft belly, and strong arms on full displays as he rolls the condom down.

“You’re so handsome” Joseph sighs.

Duck seems to blush, “Thanks, slick. Not bad yourself.”

“I mean it, really, you’re incredible” he paws his legs, grabs his shirt and pulls him down into the kiss. Duck giggles into his mouth, then sinks down onto his cock. Joseph decides he is never, never letting go of the man above him; his weight is so comforting, his body so perfect, the way his laughs morph into moans so charming.

“G-great thing about this position” Duck gasps, “is you don’t gotta do much besides let me ride you. That’s why it’s ‘Drid’s favorite.”

“Second favorite; you on my face is my first. Speaking of which” he kneels, gently lifts Joseph’s head into his hands while Barclay sits cross-legged on the other side of his head. His cock is thick and long, so mouthwatering Joseph opens his mouth without being told.

“Fuck, baby, wanted this so long.” Barclay guides his cock between his lips when Indrid turns his head. The skinnier man keeps supporting him as his tongue registers skin, sweat, Barclay and he whines for more.

“Easy, blue eyes, fuck, you’re doing great.”

“I’ll say. Fuck, can’t believe you been keepin this dick all to yourself, Joe.”

“I got my haAAnds on it once.”

“Clearly you should have done it more” Indrid purrs, hips moving slightly, “as soon as someone plays with it, he sucks cock very nicely.”

“No fuckin kiddin. Baby, baby, yeah, suck like that.”

Indrid shifts behind him, “Barclay, hold him a moment, there’s been a change of plans.” A zipper goes as Barclay cradles him. Then Indrid’s fingers are back, turning him to face a second, narrower cock.

“Handjobs can wait.” Indrid pulls him forward, moaning high when he sucks the head, “oooh, yes, that’s it.”

“Fuck, I’m gonna fuckin combust watchin you do that.” Duck bounces more deliberately and Joseph yelps joyfully around Indrid’s cock. He’s already close to cumming, the feeling of Duck around him and Indrid inside him flooding the rest of him with pleasure.

Indrid pulls his head back, starts to turn him towards Barclays, when it punches through him. He moans, pushes up into Duck as the shorter man laughs.

“I, I came first, I’m sorry, this is one of the things-”

“Shush” Barclay helps him up as Duck climbs of him, “that was fucking incredible, and you’re not done yet.”

“On your knees, facing us. Unless, sweetheart, do you-”

Duck’s hand is already between his legs, “I’m gonna enjoy the show.”

“Mmm, which means I get to enjoy you enjoying it. Barclay, turn slightly, like this.”

“Why, oh, oh I got it, fuck, you’re a fucking genius.”

Joseph agrees, though he’s going a bit cross-eyed. So he closes them, lets first Indrid and then Barclay press their cock into his mouth. It’s a stretch, his jaw aching instantly, but it’s the best he’s ever felt. They can’t push more than the heads in, so he concentrates on sucking and licking, pre-cum collecting on his tongue and spit seeping down his chin. Duck grunts behind him, offering running commentary on Indrid’s appearance and Joseph's voice. Barclay shoves both hands into his hair while Indrid keeps one on his cock.

“Fuck, fuck, Joseph, baby, this is fucking aces, gonna paint your whole fucking stomach white.”

“Ahnnn, agreed” Indrid pants, “your mouth was made for this, ohyes, that’s it, mmm, this is even better, feeling your cock against mine dearest, oh, oh” Indrid cums, bitterness hitting his tongue, and when he tries to swallow he gasps and gags instead.

“Fuck” Barclay grunts and then another burst of cum fills his mouth. He gasps for air as they pull out, sending some down his chin. He wipes ineffectively at it with the back of his hand.

“Here” Duck, underwear back on, cleans his lips with a napkin.

“Th-thank you.”

“Of course.” Duck kisses him as Indrid flops on his belly and Barclay curls his arms around Joseph.

“Gotta say, blue eyes, don’t think you got anything to worry about when it comes to making it good for me. Or, uh, us.”

“No, I don’t think I do.” Joseph rests against him, then jolts up, “shit, what time is it?”

“Ten.”

“Shit!”

“Don’t worry” Indrid nestles next to his knees, “we’ll say I had car trouble and you two came to my aid.”

Joseph relaxes back among his boyfriends, “Good call. Just, um, don’t let Duck talk?”

“Only if I get an extra kiss for keepin my mouth shut.”

“Deal.”

[wh0reforthemarauders]

TRYING TO BLEND IN (PART 2)

WARNINGS: cursing??? WORD COUNT: 1500 A/N: I didn't edit this at all (pls keep in mind that english is not my first language) I just wanted to post it today because it's full moon tonight lmao enjoy (hopefully there will be a part 3 some day)

It took Sirius a while to recover from the initial shock. This random stranger he had just met at a muggle campsite minutes ago was also a wizard. What a coincidence it was, and how lucky he was that it wasn't a muggle who saw him use magic, he thought.

Sirius stood still for a few moments, looking around the place, then finally he turned to the boy.

"How come you've never met a wizard before? Are you muggle-born?"

"No." said the boy, and then went silent. Sirius expected a longer answer than this so he decided to keep asking questions.

"Have you gone to Hogwarts?"

"No"

"But you know what it is?"

"I do. But I was homeschooled."

Uncomfortable with the direction in which their conversation was going, Remus quickly changed the topic and suggested taking Sirius's things into his new room and then make dinner for them both. Sirius was curious to find more about this unusual boy but he didn't want to seem rude so he simply nodded in agreement.

The two of them spent the next few days at the campsite together. Sirius had told Remus all about the wizarding world, his best friend James, and their adventures at Hogwarts. He could tell Remus was kind of sad now that he realized what he had been missing out on, but for some reason he still avoided the topic of why he has been isolated from other wizards his whole life.

As Remus had plenty of experience with all things muggle, he eventually taught Sirius to set up a tent and use muggle appliances to make food, but they silently agreed that Sirius was not going back to his own tent. They were simply having too much fun together and Remus felt like he was finally making up for all the years he didn't go to Hogwarts with other wizards of his age.

-------

Ten days have passed and Sirius and Remus still had plenty of topics to go through while they were roasting barbecue in front of their tent. It was a pleasant summer evening, and Sirius had been staring at the darkening sky which was mostly clear, except for a few clouds. Suddenly, he felt the urge to tell Remus the origin of his name.

"Wanna hear a story about how I got my name?" He asked out of nowhere, tapping his friend on the shoulder.

"Sure"

"You see that star over there?", he said pointing up at the sky. "The brightest one..."

As he was speaking, the soft wind blew and moved the cloud which had been hiding the moon. The moonlight instantly brightened the scenery. It seemed almost full.

"Well, although I myself am not quite as bright, as you've had a chance to..."

Sirius cast a look in Remus's direction and, seeing his worried expression, he didn't finish the joke he was about to make. It seemed as though Remus wasn't listening to him anymore. He too was staring at the sky, but not at the bright star Sirius was showing him. He was looking at the moon instead.

Sirius hesitated a moment, not knowing what to say. "What's wrong, have you never seen a full moon before?"

"Oh I've seen it" said Remus scornfully, before shaking his head and getting up quickly. "I have to leave tonight. You better pack your things. We're not gonna see each other again."

Sirius remained on the ground, following Remus with his stare as he hurried into the tent. He was pondering whether to go after him and ask him what's up when Remus emerged with a bag full of Sirius's clothes in his hands. He set it before him and proceeded to pack his own tent into a backpack, when Sirius finally stood up and approached him, grabbing him by his arm.

"What the hell is wrong with you? You're just gonna leave me here in the middle of a muggle campsite?"

Sirius stared at him, not understanding the reason behind this sudden change in behaviour. Moments ago they were having a great time, talking about their favourite flavour of Bertie Bott's Beans, and Sirius couldn't imagine what he had possibly done to cause this.

"I have to be alone for a while, that's all." he shook his arm free from Sirius's firm grip.

"Did I do something?" Sirius asked but it was too late. Remus put on his backpack and hurried towards a dark forest that was surrounding the campsite.

Sirius stood still, enraged that this guy whom he had just started to consider a friend, has left him among muggles, knowing how helpless he was without magic.

"Fuckin idiot!" he yelled after him.

A few seconds later, he felt once again the piercing stares of the muggles around him. All eyes were on him and everyone at the campsite must have seen this embarrassing scene. He faked a smile he thought seemed polite enough and sat down to finish his dinner. He was determined to leave the campsite that night and go to James's house for the rest of the summer.

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

As soon as he finished a cigarette that he had lit after dinner, Sirius got up, took his bag and headed through the same forest that Remus had disappeared into earlier that night. Now that he has calmed down a bit, he couldn't think of a reason why he even ended up at this stupid campsite. He could've gone to James's place right after leaving home, and he would've avoided 10 days of ridiculous drama.

It was somewhere around midnight and he was nearing the edge of the forest. The path he was following has now become broader and pebbled. Just as he was passing an abandoned shack hidden behind some trees, he heard strange screeching noises coming from inside. The noise didn't sound human and he was curious to find out what it was, so completely fearless, he walked up to the front door and tried to push them open but it seemed they were barred from the inside. He walked over to the window, peeked inside but it was so dark inside that he couldn't see anything. With an inexplicable amount of determination, fueled by his infinite curiosity, he pushed aside a couple of planks from the already broken window, shattered the few remaining pieces of glass, and climbed up and into the shack.

Instinctively, he took out his wand, performed the lighting charm, and in the light of the wand he could finally see where the weird screeching was coming from.

In the corner of the dusty, cobwebbed room was a curled-up, shaking figure. Who would've thought. The sound was human after all.

Sirius stepped closer with his wand hand stretched out, his step making the floor boards shriek. The figure lifted its head. Sirius barely recognized him in this horrible state, but as distorted and animal-like as his face now was, without a doubt it belonged to Remus.

"Go away, Sirius!" he screamed.

"What's going on?? Why are you here? Do you... live here?"

"Oh for fuck's sake Sirius, how stupid can you be??? LOOK AT ME"

"I'M A WEREWOLF!"

Sirius was still very much confused. He didn't understand what being a werewolf had to do with hiding out in a ruin like this.

"It's full moon! Get away from me! I really don't want to hurt you but so help me god if you stay here for one more minute..."

"...Why would you hurt me?" asked Sirius trying to sound as calm as possible.

"BECAUSE THAT'S WHAT WEREWOLVES DO!" screamed Remus desperately. "We are dangerous! We attack people! We... we hurt them."

Remus was desperately shaking and crying. Tonight's transformation was already very slow and painful and now he had one more thing to worry about. He had completely forgotten to track the days until full moon while he was with Sirius, and he hated himself for allowing to forget what a monster he was. What he wanted most at the moment was to be left alone. He could deal with this by himself, like he always does. He knew he made a mistake. He never should've befriended Sirius. He always scares friends away. But this time, he also risked hurting one.

To Remus's great surprise, however, Sirius didn't seem scared at all. Shocked perhaps, caught off guard, but not scared. He sat on the floor next to Remus, putting an arm around his shoulder, patting him comfortingly.

"It's ok." he said. Noticing that Remus winced as he approached him, he decided to try to lighten the mood the only way he knew how.

"You couldn't hurt me if you wanted to."

Remus turned to look at him, eyes still glossy from the tears.

"You're literally skin and bones, Remus. And I trained Quidditch for 6 years. You stand no chance against me."

At this, Remus's face finally brightened, and he barely managed to suppress a chuckle.

"Come on. I know a place where you can be safe... you know, while you're doing your... wolf thing." Sirius said, standing up and offering Remus a hand to help him stand up. "Remember my friend James?"

[iamkatehardy]

Best F...ucking Pain in the Ass (Alfie Solomons x Reader)

Requested by: @changrettawife with prompts #46 – Can I kiss you right now? And #77 – Are you jealous? , where Alfie and (Y/N) are best friends and when Alfie sees her dancing with another man he feels jealous, realizing how he really feels about her.

Warnings: Threats of violence ( but come on, it’s Alfie, what did you expect?!😂)

Part I

Alfie wasn’t the easiest person on Earth to deal with; not anymore… Not since his return from France, after the war.

Dangerous, acting like a deranged man most of the times, he became rather more violent and intimidating than the smiling kindhearted boy you grew up with.  The new Alfie warded off everyone who dared to try to enter his world, whether as a partner in business, or as a partner in life. He had trust issues that got in the way of every single relationship he had, never believing people could have good intentions.

Things were different with you. His reputation preceded him, but that didn’t push you away, nothing did, no matter how hard he tried to. Alfie didn’t hate you, and you were pretty much the only person he could fully trust; the only reason why he had ever tried to push you away had to do with his biggest fear: ending up hurting you and losing you.

You had always been there, even in the darkest and worst moment, and that’s exactly where you wanted to be, even though his new philosophy was opposite to everything you believed in. What motivated you the most to keep by his side, was the belief that that trapped inside that new Alfie was the person you once met, and that one day he’d rise from the ashes. You could see the old Alfie from time to time, through a smile, or a sparkle in his eye, that kept you hoping.

“Come on Alfie, don’t be a bore.” – You pouted, in a desperate attempt to make him leave the bakery for once. Alfie didn’t even move his eyes from the paperwork. – “Alfred…”

“Don’t fucking Alfred me; you know I fucking hate it, aye?” – His big finger was pointed at you, but you only found it even more amusing.

“Well, I’m sorry Alfred.” – After he signed a paper, you forcedly took it off his desk; smirking, you made a paper plane out of it and threw it across the room.

“Stop it (Y/N); I’ve killed people for far less.”  -  Incredulous, he got up, getting the crumpled paper in his big hands and trying to fix it, while giving you a threatening look. – “I don’t fucking go out, I don’t fucking dance, and I’m not your fucking bodyguard! I’m busy, a’ight?”

“Auch… You’re so bitter… Cold like a river in the winter! Luckily, I’m hot enough to melt you! Come on, there’s a whole world to explore outside the bakery.” – You sat on his chair, crossing your arms in protest.

“No.”

“Alfie!”

“Well, at least we’re not in the Alfred phase anymore, thanks Heavens!”

“Alfred…”

“Why did I fucking talk…” – He muttered, raising his hands to Heaven.

You got up, wrapping your arms around his neck and giving him a pleading look.

“No, not that look…” – He closed his eyes wide shut, taking a deep breath. You knew he couldn’t resist it. – “You manipulative little thing!” – He half smiled. “ Maybe another time, ok? Today I’m busy sweetie, I really can’t.” – He rubbed your back. – “Now could you pleeeease not fuck my contracts? I’m asking nicely, just this once, aye?”

“Ugh. Fine, but I’ll be back Alfie! I‘m not giving up!” – Punching his chest lightly, you gave him a determined look.

Alfie was a creature of habit; stepping out of his comfort zone certainly wasn’t one of them. Being stood up by him wasn’t properly news, especially when it came to having fun, or going out in any case; he was always too busy, and when he wasn’t, he’d come up with another excuse. Your persistence wasn’t anything new for him either, so he knew that sooner or later he’d have to give in and join you in at least one fun night, but not that night.

“It’s his loss, not mine.” -  You yammered, trying to convince yourself of that, on your way to The Eden Club.

The arrival of the Peaky boys caused quite a stir; you were bubbling over with curiosity to witness their power and luxuries with your own eyes, that night would be a good opportunity to do it.

Alfie had forbidden you to enter that club when Sabini ran the place, but he didn’t say a word about going there while it was under the Shelbys’ management; after all, they were a kind of partners, it wouldn’t hurt to take a look…Plus you had always heard “Out of sight, out of mind”, and Mr. Solomons wasn’t anywhere near the club.

You heard a lot about how the Club had changed, and though you couldn’t make comparisons, because you had never been there before, everything you heard didn’t make justice to how lavish the place looked. From the place itself to the people, everything was wonderfully good-looking, and you were no exception.

The only Shelby you knew was Tommy, who was a little piece of Heaven, and unfortunately wasn’t there, but it didn’t take long until you caught another Shelby’s eye. Proud and wasted as he was, Arthur didn’t take long until he introduced himself and offered you a drink, and another, and another. He was in the sweet talk game with you all night long; it was in his blood: he always got what he wanted, and he wanted you. Any girl in there would’ve been easier to get, they crawled to his feet to get his attention, but Arthur was willing to spend all the time it would take to get you, he kind of liked the challenge for once in his life.

You danced, laughed, and drank until you were three sheets to the wind; although nothing happened between you and Arthur that night, except for one or two teasing kisses, you promised you’d be paying him another visit soon, to solve your unfinished business. In the end of the night, you were kind of glad Alfie didn’t want to come, because you had a blast.

After a wild night like that, you felt more drowsy than usual, so you just slept the whole day, skipping your usual visit to Alfie. His office was silent, way quieter than it was when you were around, too quiet for Alfie’s taste, although he would never admit it. He kept looking at his watch every five minutes, and when he wasn’t checking the time, he was staring at the door, waiting impatiently for the moment you’d storm in and mess with him as usual; he even roamed the corridors of the distillery, wondering if you were around talking to his men and lost track of time before paying him a visit, but you were nowhere to be found.

Alfie close his eyes sighing, and then he looked at the telephone, over his half-moon glasses. He didn’t want to throw in the towel and call you, because it was you who didn’t show up, so in his opinion you should be the one calling and giving explanations, but he missed you and this time he didn’t want his pride to be responsible for screwing up; after some beard strokes and mumbled curse words, he eventually called you.

“Yes?”

“(Y/N), I was fuckin’ worried!” – Alfie couldn’t say some three word sentences, like I miss you, I adore you , I need you, or I love you, so he came up with different excuses to call.

“Alfie! I thought you were dancing or something, to rejoice your peaceful day in the bakery!” – You speech was still a little bit slurred.

He didn’t mention how painful the “peaceful” day actually was for him, how much you were missed, to the point even his men asked what happened to you.

“You always show up after work, and today you didn’t…I though you fuckin’ died!”

“No, I’m a tough cookie Alfred! So, you already know I’m alive, anything else or can I go back to my beauty sleep?”

“ I…  Maybe…” – He made lines and sketches on the paper ahead of him, trying to find the right words.

“Spit it out!” – You ranted in frustration, with a groggy voice.

“Maybe we could have dinner tonight? You know, you could come to my place, we could catch up…” – At this point Alfie was so nervous he started sketching wildly in the most important contract he signed that day, without even noticing.

“Catch up?! Alfie, we hang out every fucking day…”

“Right… I… Right…I’m sorry  I disturbed you, pet, see you anther time.” - There was disappointment in his voice, after so many years you could recognize it, and just when he was about to hang up you sighed.

“Alfie, wait!”

“Yeah?” – His eyes shone a little brighter.

“No Matzoh Ball soup?” – You sighed loudly before giggling

“No Matzoh Ball soup, I promise.” – A soft laugh escaped his throat.

“Great, your Matzoh Ball soup sucks!” – You said teasingly. – “Then it’s a date! I’ll be there at 8, is that ok?”

“Fuckin’ great, love! See you at 8.” – He rubbed his hands, feeling in the seventh heaven.

Having dinner with Alfie wasn’t the only thing you planned for the night, so you got a little more dolled up than usual. The finger wave hairstyle was perfect to compliment your features, your makeup highlighted your startling eyes and the scarlet in your lips made them even more bewitching, and to top it off you chose an evening beaded dress that ended just below your knee and let show your voluptuous silhouette, ready to kill it that night.

When Alfie opened the door, he was baffled; leaning against the door frame, he tried to ignore the knot in his stomach, and the adrenaline that the sight of you provoked in him.

“Can I come in or…?” – You titled your head lightly, with a sunny smile.

“Sure…” – He stroked his hair, waking up from his daze, but watching you with amazement as you got past him.

“Thank god, because I’m starving…” – You threw your fur coat on the sofa and headed to the kitchen, sniffing and snooping the pots and pans.  Alfie followed you, taking a small bit with a spoon.

“Beware, it’s fuckin’ hot.” – He gave you a taste, letting his hand gently under your chin, so your dress wouldn’t be ruined in case something fell.

“Oh… OHHH…” -  You spoke with your mouth still full; one of the good things of being around Alfie was the fact you didn’t have to be politically correct or worried with norms, you could be yourself and it was enough. – “My body is ready… My body is fucking ready!” – You rolled your eyes in delight. – “You know, if you ever give up the gangster life, you can be a chef Alfie! I’d be supportive of that.”

The dinner was delicious, and you had a great time goofing around with him, over couple glasses of wine. Alfie was so awestruck by your radiance that his only regret was that he didn’t make something more outstanding, or perhaps dare something more romantic.

You gracefully got up, walking up to him and leaned down, getting closer. He felt the knot in his stomach tightening a little bit more, but remained seemingly calmed, except for a swift gasp that escaped him as he gazed at your lips. You took his watch in his hand, checking the time. His hand slid down your cheek, in a soft caress, almost involuntarily.

“I’ve got to go.”  - You turned your face, kissing his hand softly.

“Already?! But it’s still early.” – Straightening in the chair, he put his watch back in his pocket, wishing you had never seen it, hoping you wouldn’t leave.

“Places to go… People to meet…” – You smirked.

“Sit down, miss.” – His eyebrows furrowed, as he rested his elbows on the table, wringing his hands. – “What place would that be?”

“The Eden…”

“The fucking what?! Say it again love, because I think I’m not hearing properly.”

“The Eden Club.” – You stated calmly, sitting on the edge of the table.

“Didn’t I expressly prohibit you from fuckin’ going there, aye?”  - He got up quickly, furious, and his chair fell with a loud noise.

“Because there was bad blood between you and Sabini, Alfie. And I never stepped there while Sabini owned the place… But now it’s not Sabini’s anymore… It’s Shelbys’!”

“Oh it’s Shelbys’ now?! No shit! “ – He crossed his arms, furrowing his brows even more. – “They are fucking gangsters (Y/N)! Now, you stay away from the fuckin’ Shelbys, a’ight?!” – He pointed his finger right to your face.

“Alfie… You’re a fuckin gangster! Now get your hand of my face, you don’t get to say where I go, or with who, as long as I remember!” – You slapped his hand.

“They are fuckin’ crazy, and dangerous… Oh god, you’re doing this to push me, innit?” – He rubbed his face, letting out a loud grunt

“You know what’s fucking mad?! You, a fucking gangster, telling me they are crazy, and dangerous! They are not, they are nice, tall, handsome, elegant, gallant, good looking, sweetly perfumed….”

“No, seriously (Y/N), gimme a fuckin’ break…”

“Are you jealous?” – You smirked.

“Fuck me! No!” – He tried to argue against what you just said, but he was betrayed by his facial expression, that contradicted his words.

“Well, you can’t stop me from going...”

“Then I’m going with you!” – He glared at you.

“So, let me see if I got this straight…. You never want to go out with me, but now that you’re having a tantrum , you want to come?! I didn’t invite you!”

“If I’m not going, you’re not going! Consider this my compensation for declining all the previous invitations, aye? I’m not throwing you to the wolves… And I’m not letting you throw yourself to the wolves either… Just fucking wait here! And don’t try to sneak out, it’s all locked.” – He walked away, going to his room and slamming the door behind him. – “Fucking handsome, fucking elegant… Fucking hell!”

You put his chair in place and sat down, waiting for him. He decided to take a hot bath first, and then trimmed his beard with sharp, precise lines, before combing his hair; never had he ever spent so much time in front of a mirror.

“Alfiiiiie, I’m late already!” – You shouted.

“Five fucking minutes!” - Alfie sat on his bed, facing his open wardrobe, deciding what he’d wear, to be handsome and elegant.

“I’ll break down the door, if your five minutes last for two hours.”

He chose the best suit he had in his closet; it could be considered pretty stylish, but for him it was just uncomfortable, something he’d only be willing to wear for you. He felt like a monkey when he was inside that suit; he had only use it once, to attend his cousin’s marriage, and just because his mother made him do it. It wasn’t baggy or sloppy as he usually was;it was the perfect fit, and unlike him, anyone else would’ve thought that he looked like a new man, a classy, charming Alfie Solomons.

“Alfie, I swear to god, I will kill…”

Alfie walked through the door and you stopped talking. You stared up at him, amazed at how much more beautiful he was when he was that careful with himself. He always was, but tonight, he was even more.

“Alfie?” – You got up.- “No…Who are you, and what have you done to Alfie Solomons ?!” – You bend down, leaning your head on his stomach.- “Did you eat him?” – You got up, with a smug face. – “No… You don’t eat pork.”

“Shut up.”

“ Sorry, you’re really good-looking, I’m not used!” – You linked your arm on his, leaving home and walking to the car.

“Wait…” – When you were about to open the door of the car, Alfie opened it for you, making you a sign to get in.

“Well, thank you.” – You smiled, and leaned to open his door from the inside, as reply to his courtesy.

The ride to the club was quiet. Vanity, courtesy, and gentleness, all in the same day, coming from Alfie… How were you supposed to know what the hell to say? He got out of the car, and around to your side, before you could say anything; he helped you out, offering his arm like he did before. And finally there he was, in the last place on Earth he’d want to be: The Eden Club.

“I’ll be watching you the entire time, and protecting you…”

“I don’t need protection Alfie, I’m just fine! Now, go your way, get yourself a nice lady, and let me have fun, ok?”

Your words stung, and left him dumbfound. He didn’t want any nice lady, and he didn’t think you’d be able to dismiss him like that, but he just lowered his head, nodded and walked to the bar; Alfie wasn’t the one to drink a lot, but something told him he’d need a stiff drink in him that night.

“Pretty woman, here you are…” – Arthur snuck up behind you, grabbing you by the waist. – “Finally! Thought you weren’t coming anymore! “– You could feel his moustache tickling your ear as he whispered. – “Would you like to dance?”

“I would love to!”

Arthur wasn’t as handsome as Tommy, but he was surprisingly charming. He could be a crude chap in certain cases, but with Alfie you had learnt that crude can be damn sexy sometimes. Your hips swayed to the rhythm of the music, and Arthur had a look of wonder in his face; it didn’t take long until he was whispering flirtatious thing on your ear once again. His hands roamed eagerly over you, as he pulled you closer and close, nibbling your ear.

Alfie took a swig of his drink and turned around, coming across you and Arthur, and how steamy things were getting between you. He couldn’t stop rage from bubbling up, so he clenched his fists and got up, coming closer. When he got to you, he grabbed Arthur by the arm, pushing him away from you.

“Get your fucking hands off her! You fuckin’ Shelbys, aye,  come to my fuckin’ town, mess with our fuckin’ women…”

Alfie was really short-tempered, but Arthur could be just as hothead. You started to panicked, not knowing what could happen. Everyone stopped what they were doing, to see the two worst motherfuckers in town fighting.

“Listen,Solomons…” – Taking a deep breath, Arthur shook the sleeve where Alfie grabbed him, with disgust, as if it had dirt. – “It’s not Alfie Town, so it’s not your fuckin’ town...” – He pointed at you. – “Com’ere, please.”  - You approached hesitantly, and he took your hands on his, inspecting them. – “No ring in this one… No ring in this one either… Right, it’s not your fuckin woman, mate, so fuck off.” – Arthur pointed his finger threateningly at Alfie.

Alfie took a deep breath and pulled his coat slightly aside, revealing his gun. He was always ready to fight, especially when it came to protect you; he wouldn’t think twice before shooting Arthur if he laid his hands on you once again.

“You’ve got a nerve, coming in my club, insulting me and threatening me! You think you’re big, and you’re bad, but I’m teaching you a fucking lesson!” – He walked furiously to Alfie, but you quickly got in the way.

“Arthur, no. We’re leaving.” – You put your hands up, as a sign of peace. – “We came together, and we’re leaving now, this is just a big misunderstanding.”

“This is no fucking misunderstanding, (Y/N), if he dares to touch you again, he’ll be one-handed by the morning.” – Alfie was sweating, his face so red he was about to explode.

“Out of deference to you, I’m not killing  him…” – Arthur slid a hand on his slick hair. - “But you, you filthy Jew, get out and don’t step in my fucking club again, or I’ll fucking slice you and feed you to the stray dogs!” – He pushed Alfie violently.

Before Alfie could fight back, you dragged him out of the Club.

“Are you nuts?!” – Already out of the club, you balled up your hand into a fist, whacking it against his chest, but not hard enough to hurt him. – “You tell me they are dangerous, and then you confront him like that?” –. Everyone was watching you, shouting at mighty Mr. Solomons, who was double your size, and usually killed who dared to look at him wrong. – “Are you trying to get yourself killed, Alfred?”

“Look, pet, I’m sorry I ruined your night, a’ight? But I couldn’t help it…When I saw his thirsty, nasty, filthy hands on you… You don’t know how he treats women, a’ight, I couldn’t let that happen! I don’t want him to treat you like that; I don’t want anyone to treat you like that.” – Alfie sat down on the sidewalk, rubbing his hands and looking down, noticeably shaken. He was telling the truth, but not the totality of it. Seeing you with Arthur made him remember how much he hated how the Shelbys played women, but also how much it actually hurt to see you with another man, although he knew it would inevitably happen in the future.

One of the things you hated the most was that you couldn’t be mad at Alfie, not even when you really wanted to. He had been an ass, he always was, but sometimes he was an ass with good intentions, and it touched your heart. You sat down by his side, laying your head on his shoulder. He’d normally shake you off, but he just let you do it.

“You get all fancy, just to get us kicked out of the club, huh? An attitude that definitely has Alfie Solomons written all over it.“ – You lighted a cigarette, to relieve the tension.

“I didn’t get fancy to come in the club, love… And I fuckin’ hate it anyway.” – He loosened the collar of his shirt and messed his hair, going back to the disheveled Alfie you knew.

“That’s great, I like that Alfie better.” – You threw the cigarette away, laying your hands over your knees, and turning to contemplate him for a while.

“Oh really?! I though you liked the Shelby style better!” – He moved his hands, slightly irritated. – “All fucking refined, and fucking handsome, and fucking gallant, and I don’t know what the fuck else!” – He got up. - “Pretty much everything this Alfie is not.”

For a second you just looked at him, surprised; but you couldn’t help it, the next second you burst out laughing.

“What’s funny?!” – He furrowed his brows, but you couldn’t stop laughing. – “What’s fuckin’ funny, aye (Y/N)?!” – He grabbed your wrist, getting you up and making you face him.

“You’re so absurd Alfie…” – You said, getting your breath back.

“Right, absurd… I’m so glad you’re pointing that out, (Y/N), ‘cause I completely forgot to add that to the list of bad fucking things about me!”

“Like you forgot to add all the good things…” – You shrugged. – “Alfie… I don’t need you to put a fashionable suit, or cologne, or to trim your bear-like beard…” – Your cold fingers traced his jaw slowly. – “ I’m fuckin’ happy with the scruffy beard, the smell of cheap rum, the wrinkled shirt, the sweaty hair out of its place, the cane…. I like all of that, ok?”

“I don’t get it…” - Alfie looked at you, confused. He thought you deserved better, and he thought you probably thought just the same.

“You’re a pain in the ass, moody, grumpy, and fucking messy… But that’s my Alfie, you know? I don’t really care about the handsome Shlebys, or anyone else are….Or whatever else you think matters more to me than you, for the matter. “

He really liked how the words  my Alfie sounded coming from you; he had never wanted to be anyone’s, or so he thought, but you and life showed him how wrong he was.

“You’re big, and you’re bad… But I love you like that, like mad, you fuckin’ fool!” – You punched him playfully.

“Can I kiss you right now?” - He whispered, even though you were alone.

“No, you fucking can’t! That’s what you get for being a dick, Alfie!

A silent laugh escaped his lips, and before you could say anything else, he pulled you against his chest, allowing you to feel his rapid heart rate, as his lips finally met yours. You gasped; just like Alfie, you had been waiting for that moment for far too long. His lips were softer than you thought they’d be, and his kiss way gentler than you’d expect; it felt as if your mouths danced, synchronized, , at the rhythm of the love you felt for each other, and neither of you wanted them to ever stop. He was so passionate you totally surrendered; he kissed you with his lips, with his hands, with his racing heart, and with his soul, which you thought was long lost; that was the most exhilarating feeling you had ever experienced. After some long minute you broke the kiss, to get your breath back, and lifted your hand as if you were going to slap him for kissing you. Alfie stared at your hand, then met your gaze again.

“You know, you almost got me there… “– He smirked. – “ Your only mistake was hesitating. Should’ve fuckin’ hit me in the first five seconds after the kiss, aye? It would’ve been more convincing.” – He grabbed your hand, planting a kiss on it. – “ Love, if you’re gonna threat someone, act like you fuckin’ mean it! You’re learning from the best, make use of this valuable little lesson!”

“Fuck you Alfie!  You talk too much…” – You cupped his face in your both hands and leaned in for another hungry kiss, one that made you both smile.

[sableflynn]

Summer nights

Written for the “attacked in their sleep” prompt for @badthingshappenbingo​ and requested by anon. I’m sorry anon I wanted this to be more whumpy, but it ended up being pretty low stakes and kind of goofy! ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ also just to clarify Kailo’s like nineteen in this, everyone just calls him kid lol

Also on Ao3

---

Kailo stared at the innkeeper, not fully understanding what she was saying. "What do you mean it's not enough? It was enough last night…”

“But it’s solstice week now, yeah? Everything’s gonna be pricier with all the tourists coming in.” The innkeeper gave him a sympathetic smile, but she was drumming her fingers along the bar like she was waiting for him to leave. “Listen honey, you should just go home. Your mom probably misses you.”

“But I…” He bit his lip. Home was so far away, and he didn’t come all the way to the city just to run away as soon as things got difficult. “Is there somewhere else nearby I could stay?” This had been the cheapest inn he could find, but there was so much of the city he hadn’t seen yet and he easily could've missed something.

But she just shrugged, already turning her attention to the next customers. “Might be. Good luck finding a place with an open room this late at the start of solstice week, though.”

And so Kailo found himself on the street again, pack slung over his shoulder, trying to stay positive. This isn’t the only inn in the city. There’s got to be somewhere with a room I can afford. Tomorrow he would wake up early and see what odd jobs he could pick up around the city. He just needed a place to crash for the night.

But the next three places he checked were completely full, and the two after that were even more expensive than the one he had left behind. He was starting to feel desperate. Each time he stepped back outside, the streets seemed a little bit emptier, the shadows a little bit darker. The owner of the last place he stopped had actually laughed in his face when he told them how much he could pay. He rubbed away the tears of embarrassment and frustration that pricked at his eyes. Why is everyone here so cruel?

As the night went on, exhaustion overcame any sense of self-preservation; he stopped looking at inns and started eyeing the secluded, winding alleys criss-crossing the city. It’s just one night… He could tuck himself somewhere out of the way and curl up for a few hours. Just enough to take the edge off his exhaustion. At least it’s not raining.

He eventually found a dead end behind what looked like a bakery, closed for the night. Maybe if I wake up early enough, they’ll give me some bread before they open for the day. Surely there had to be some kind people in this city. He curled up on the cool cobblestones, arms tightly wrapping his pack. The city was never truly silent, but here the sounds of the late night life became a sort of ambient background noise, muffled by the walls of the buildings surrounding him. He could see the crescent moon in the sky between the rooftops, and he could almost convince himself this was peaceful. Letting his eyes drift shut, he slowly fell into an uneasy sleep.

***

Kailo woke with a start to the sensation of something tugging at the bag clutched in his arms. He jolted up to sitting and threw himself back, his mind struggling to catch up to where he was and what was happening. I slept outside, and now I’m not alone. He squinted in the dim moonlight and made out the figure of a man crouching at his side.

“Hey, don’t worry,” the man said in a voice that absolutely made Kailo worry. “I don’t have to hurt you. I just wanna see if you’ve got anything good in that bag.” The man advanced on him, reaching for the bag once again.

“I don’t have anything!” Kailo’s back hit the wall and he hugged his bag closer, eyes scanning the alley for some way out. He could only see the man looming over him, blocking his line of sight. He kicked out in desperation. “Get off of me! I swear I don’t have anything! Leave me alone!”

The man’s fist smashed into the side of his face, whipping his head against the wall as pain exploded across his cheek. Stunned, he sat helpless for a minute as he felt the bag being lifted out of his arms. No. Kailo shook the stars from his vision to see the man digging through the pack, counting out the small amount of money he had. Reaching back in to pull out the blanket from home.

“You don’t have anything?” The man held the blanket aloft, and Kailo froze. It was hand embroidered with the waves and foam of the sea, a gift from his mother, the only keepsake he had from home. He grabbed for it, but the man pushed him back down easily. “This is cute. Dunno if it’s worth much, but I’m sure someone would buy it.”

“No!” Fear forgotten, Kailo threw himself at the man. He had no clue how to fight, but he scrabbled at the man’s arms in an attempt to wrestle the blanket from him. An erratic fist collided with the man’s face, and Kailo felt a brief thrill of victory before he was slammed on his back, knocking all the air out of him.

“Now you’re pissing me off,” the man growled, and Kailo felt a cold bite at his neck that he realized was a knife. “This isn’t worth dying for, is it? Just let it happen, kid. Maybe you’ll be more careful where you sleep next time.” Kailo was scared to move under that knife, scared to even breathe, but he couldn’t let this man walk away with everything he owned.

“Hey, leave him alone!”

A voice rang out from the other end of the alley, and they both paused. The man eased off slightly to turn and look, and Kailo was able to lift his head to see a woman standing at the edge of the alley. Even as he was grateful for the distraction, his stomach dropped. Now this woman is going to get hurt too, because I was stupid enough to think I could move to this city by myself.

“Why don’t you mind your own fuckin’ business?” The man dropped Kailo’s things and stood to face the woman. Not taking his eyes off the scene unfolding in front of him, Kailo grabbed his bag, shoving the blanket back in, and scrambled back against the wall. He should run, or try to help, or do something, but he felt frozen.

As the woman stepped closer, Kailo managed to find his voice. He had to at least warn her that this man was dangerous. “Watch out! He has a knife!”

“I can see that,” the woman said with a laugh. “Do you even know how to use that thing?”

Why would she taunt him like that? Now the man was enraged, rushing towards her with the knife in hand. She wasn’t even moving, just watching the man with a smirk on her face as he got closer. Kailo was holding his breath, wondering if he was about to sit here and watch this woman get stabbed while he did nothing.

Instead, he blinked, and suddenly the man was sprawled on the ground, swearing, and the woman was kicking the knife out of his reach. How did she…? Kailo crept forward, torn between wanting to get a closer look and needing to get as far away as possible.

The man rolled over on the ground, clutching his arm. “What the fuck? What was that for?”

“That was for you running at me with a knife!” The woman snapped, heated. She picked up the knife and tossed it to Kailo. Too stunned to catch it, he let it slip between his fingers and clatter to the ground at his feet. “And stop bothering people when they’re trying to sleep,” she added, dragging the man back to standing. “Seriously, just go rob a fucking mansion or something if you need money. This is just embarrassing for you.”

“It was going fine until you decided to stick your nose in!” The man seemed a lot less intimidating now, and a lot more flustered.

“Well I did stick my nose in, so you’d better leave now.” The woman gave him a rough shove towards the street. “Unless you really want to try your luck against me, but let’s be real, we both know you would lose.” Kailo expected the man to attack again, but to his surprise, he instead continued out the alley and vanished onto the street.

Kailo stood rooted to the spot, trying to calm his frantic breathing. The woman walked over to him and looked him over. “You ok, kid?”

A thousand thoughts were racing through his mind—he could’ve killed you—he tried to rob me—are you ok?—I hate this city—but absurdly, the first thing to come out of his mouth was, “I’m not a kid!”

“Fair enough, sorry!” She smiled, and it was oddly comforting despite the streak of blood across her cheek. “But seriously, you seem pretty shaken up.”

Kailo realized he was clutching his pack to his chest like a lifeline, and he tried to relax himself. “I just...he was gonna kill me. And he could’ve killed you, and I don’t even know you!”

“What, that guy?” To his shock, the woman laughed. “Nah, he’s harmless. Thinks he’s cool because he can wave a knife around, but he really doesn’t have a clue what he’s doing.” Then she seemed to realize her comments weren’t making him feel any better, and her expression softened. “But hey...why are you out here so late anyway? Don’t you have a place to stay?”

“I…” Kailo looked down, scuffed the cobblestones with his foot. He was exhausted and terrified, and he wasn’t sure if he could trust her but she seemed honest enough. “Well, I was just staying in an inn, just for a little bit until I could find a place. But then they raised the prices and I couldn’t afford a room, so…”

The woman rolled her eyes. “Fucking tourist season. Sorry that had to happen to you. But listen, if you’re new here…” She paused, looking thoughtful. “I have a couch, you can totally come crash with me. Just for a little bit, so you can get your feet under you.”

“You would do that for me?” Part of his mind was telling him there had to be a catch, but he was just so tired and just wanted to be somewhere safe. “But you don’t even know me!”

“True, that would help!” The woman stuck out her hand in greeting, easy grin back on her face. “I’m Darya, nice to meet you!”

“I’m Kailo.” He shook her hand. “Thanks, by the way. For saving me back there.”

“Don’t even worry about it!” She headed back towards the street, looking back at him over her shoulder. “Come on, home’s not far from here, and I promise I have a really nice couch!” Kailo paused for a moment, slowly smiling despite his exhaustion. Then he followed her out onto the street and walked by her side, their forms casting long shadows in the glow of the lamplight.

[hopeful-starship]

Welcome to the 1st installment of “Chloé finds cool ask lists and answers them despite nobody asking”! This one is courtesy of @bgbygirl, go check them out!

🐰- do you believe in soul mates?  Heck yeah i do. I haven’t found mine yet, but he’ll come around. I believe it.

💌- diary or journal? I’d rather journal! I sometimes just write out my feelings on loose paper when i feel bad, but i’ve rarely kept a diary for more than two weeks.

✨- which fictional character (book, show, or movie) do you relate to most? Holy WOW this is difficult. I’m a mix of chunks from a lot of characters, but i feel like i’m the closest to Cath from Fangirl (a wonderful book by Rainbow Rowell, which i highly recommend you check out).

💕- are you crushing on someone? I was literally three days ago (you’ll know if you follow my crush chronicles tag - which you probably don’t because it’s not that interesting), but i’m thankfully getting over it. I love boys and i love crushing, but he wasn’t good for me - at least not in a romantic setting.

💋- kissing in the dark or kissing in the rain? I’d say rain. If i’m kissing a boy, i probably find him handsome, and i want to be able to see him. 

🐝- describe your aesthetic in emojis I’m on my laptop so i can’t use emojis, but i’d say my aesthetic as a mix of “80s rock dad”, “horny on main” and “pastel cinnamon roll”. It’s a weird mix. 

🍼- what is your favorite memory? The 2nd time i met Captain America in Disneyland Paris this summer. I went to shake his hand (because the 1st one did that) and he said “no, i’ll hug you if that’s okay”, and that was THE CUTEST SHIT. I blog a lot about Bohemian Rhapsody at the moment, but i love the Avengers A LOT, and Steve is my favorite, so that was very special.

🌸- what is your favorite flower? Not orchids, surprisingly! I like them, but i like how the word sounds more than i like the flower itself. Is lavender a flower? I’m going to say it is. Lavender is my favorite flower.

💖- have you ever been in love? I’ve said i was in love a couple times in the past, but looking back, i don’t think i was. I was very fond of them, but i don’t think i was -in love-.

🍰- strawberry or vanilla? Strawberry! (Side not: i’m realising i changed a lot over the past few months, because the answer’s been vanilla my whole life)

🍯- describe your favorite smell I have two, and they’re extremely unrelated lol. The first one is speculoos cookies being baked, and the second one is that generic boy perfume smell (my friends say that doesn’t exist and i’m crazy, but i know what i’m talking about and i hope you do too)

🎂- if you had 3 wishes, what would they be? I generally have trouble with this question. The first thing that came to my mind was: i wish i could be sure everyone i love knows i love them, and i wish i wouldn’t constantly doubt they love me back.

🍪- cookie dough or cookies? Cookie dough. Cookie dough always. Any day of the week. I love cookies, but cookie dough is my favorite thing.

☕- coffee or tea? Neither! I don’t like hot drinks!

🍃- would you rather live in a sea with mermaids or a forest with fairies? I’m fascinated by the ocean, so give me those mermaids any day!

🍂- what’s your middle name? My middle name is Jeanne! It was apparently two of my great-grandmothers’ name.

💫- what is your sun, moon, and rising sign? I had no idea what this meant, so i googled it and apparently my sun sign is Pisces, my moon sign is Taurus and my rising sign is Leo! Which apparently means i’m affectionate and emotional (very true), like to be praised and appreciated (also true), and am even-tempered and calm (not so true).

🌧️- favorite thing to do on rainy days? I love sitting/lying next to a window and listening to the rain fall while reading or writing!

🍭- how tall are you? I’m 6′2! (188 centimetres) (basically a fuckin giant)

💒- which show would you want to live in? I know the question probably means TV show, but i’m twisting it around and understanding musical, because damn i love theatre. My answer is Mamma Mia. OF COURSE IT IS. I want to spend my days dancing around a greek island and singing Abba songs at handsome dudes. (this might be a later question, but spoiler: Mamma Mia is my favorite movie)

🎄- what is your favorite holiday? Christmas! I fuckin love Christmas! I’m currently sitting in my Christmas pyjamas (yes, on November 17th, leave me alone)

🍦- what scented candle is your favorite? I’ve never had any candles (my mum thinks they’re too dangerous), but i generally like those that smell like cinnamon and apples.

🎶- favorite song right now? You may have noticed i have a bit of an obsession with Bohemian Rhapsody. My current favorite song is It’s Late by Queen, which i discovered when i was extensively researching their discography after seeing the movie. Oh my wooorld, that guitar riff gets me railing.

💘- 3 ways to win your heart? 1) Sing/play any instrument ever 2) Be kind 3) Have a lot of hair The truth is, if you’re a guy and you’re (even remotely) kind and attractive, i’ll fall in love with you, even if it’s for 20 minutes.

🍩- current mood? A bit weird, if i’m honest. I’m generally good, but it feels like the sword of Damocles is hanging over my head and a depressive episode is threatening to drop on me.

❄️- what is your favorite season? This is a difficult question for me, there are things i love and things i dislike about every season! But i’ll say spring, because i can go out without a jacket, but it’s not too warm yet.

💍- your current relationship status? Married to Gwilym Lee (jk lol, i’m single as all hell - someone date me please, i’m so alone)

📷- a photo of yourself

Here, have this picture of me being a Captain America fangirl in Disneyland Paris (i’m going back in three days and the excitement is UNREAL)

💅🏻- do you like being spoiled? OH NO. I’m not one of those who can’t accept a gift, but i can’t help but wonder what i did to deserve it and stress about it.

🕊️- 3 habits you have? 1) Arriving at college at least 30 minutes before my class starts and sitting on the floor outside of the classroom, reading or watching videos 2) Dancing a bit too enthusiastically at bus stops 3) Skipping class when i feel overwhelmed and hiding in the library/in a café with something to eat and something to drink, and watching a heckton of videos in hopes of making myself feel better

🦄- how do you perceive yourself? Well it depends on how i feel when you ask the question - but generally, i think i’m a rather good person, or at least i try my best to be. I’m as kind as possible. It’s going sound conceited, but i’m a bit too smart for my own good - which means i overthink everything and end up in a state of existential crisis 9 times out of 10. Physically, i’m mostly ok with how i look - although it sure would be nice if i could find ONE guy who thinks i’m alright too.

🦋- how do you think others perceive you? I’m not answering this question, because i don’t want to end up in aforementioned state of existential crisis. Feel free to tell me how you perceive me though, i’m interested!

🌈- things I find attractive in girls/guys I’ll answer for guys, since they’re what i’m attracted to! Smile is something super important for me. I love hair, especially when they’ve got a lot of it (hello Brian May). And i seem to have a thing for cowboys and guitarists. (...again, hello Brian May)

🍓- one secret about yourself The main reason i obsess over “celebrities” (and even daydream about being with them) is because it’s easier than falling for guys i know irl and getting rejected.

🍒- how do you act when you have a crush? Like a FUCKIN IDIOT. During the first week i had a “thing” for my former crush, i couldn’t speak to him without stumbling on my words, and i almost fell on him on the tram. I can’t function properly when i like someone.

💔- the reason behind your last breakup? I’ve never been with anyone, so i’ve never had a breakup; so i’ll tell the reason behind my last rejection. Thankfully it didn’t hurt too much, he was in love with one of my friends and she loved him back, and i just knew they’d be good for each other. So just before they got together, we talked it out, just to clear the air, and so he knew that i wasn’t fully in love, i just liked him because he was cute and kind, that of course i wouldn’t do anything to interfere with their relationship, and that i really wanted us to stay friends. He was an absolute peach and he’s one of my best friends today!

💬- what your last text message says? It’s two heart emojis! (to a friend, don’t imagine any boys are talking to me)

🎥- what show are you currently binging on? I’m not watching any show at the moment, i’m trying to catch up on my Watch later Youtube playlist! But i did have half a Harry Potter marathon with a friend this weekend.

⛅- what is your morning routine? Brush my hair, tie it up in a ponytail (or a bun if it’s really greasy woops), wash my face, shower, dress, pack my bag, have breakfast, fiddle on my phone if i have extra time, go!

💗- who do you miss? I miss my friend Antoine. I know we’ve seen the best of each other, but sometimes i just miss the guy he was when i was 15.

🥀- last time you cried? Wednesday afternoon! While, you guessed it, watching Bohemian Rhapsody. It’s been 4 times, but i still cry a lot.

🎁- when is your birthday? March 3rd!

🔪- scariest/creepiest experience? I try to steer clear of anything even remotely scary or creepy, i hate that kind of stuff.

💤- date someone younger, older, or same age as you? I really don’t care as long as the connection’s there, but life has shown that i get along better with people that are a bit older than me!

🎀- any question you want I’m going to make this question into “where do you hope to be in three years?” because i think it’s interesting. If my plans don’t change, i’ll be in Brighton, taking another degree which i’ll hopefully enjoy this time. Which means i’ll have my own flat again - i hope it’s somewhat near the sea, so i can go quite often. I also hope i made friends that are on the same wavelength as i am, and who knows, maybe even found a good guy?

If you read this whole ordeal, thank you so much lol! That was really fun! I hope you have a nice day!