#on second thought it sounds like something tobias would do

[vanmec]

late night scribbles because i’m still obsessed

[luveline]

God bombshell x reid kills me I want them to just be together so bad but the slow burn is so good

Would you happen to have anything in mind for a situation where spencer starts to see that her feelings are genuine and he can envision actually being with her?

thanks for requesting my love! ♡ fem reader

Your arrival is marked by a bunch of different things. The smell of your perfume, the clack of your shoes. The clinking sound of your two tennis bracelets as you lift your hand, and the scratch of your fingernails in his hair. He shivers at the soft touch, worse as you lean down to talk in his ear. “Morning,” you say cheerily. 

It's a quick ordeal. A swift scratch and you pull away. 

You've done affectionate things like that before. Hugged him when you thought he needed it, kissed his cheek to say thanks. When he was in the hospital after Tobias, you held his hand the entire time. He's always thought you felt sorry for him —you've made it clear that you think the team could be better to him. If it weren't for you, he probably wouldn't believe it himself. 

But something about your scratching rings a bell in his head. 

It's just so… girlfriend-y. 

He lifts his head from his desk to watch you walk to your own. Hotch won't abide you sitting together anymore on account of you letting him chat as much as he likes without chiding, but you're not far enough to escape his attention, either. Spencer's gaze follows your arms as you shrug from your jacket, and your neck as you lean back and let out a sigh. 

He gets up. 

“Did you sleep okay?” he asks worriedly. 

“Slept just fine, honey,” you say, brushing down your blouse. “How about you? Headaches any better?” 

“They're fine.”

You touch your cheek gently. “... What are you looking at me for?”

“Nothing,” he says quickly. When a rare insecurity flashes in your eyes, he adds, “You look really pretty today, that's all.” 

“Oh.” Your lips perk into a big smile, charmed and charming. “Thank you, Spencer. You look handsome, too. Your hair’s growing.” You bring a hand to his face, not hesitant, but waiting permission, and when he lifts his chin a touch you rake your hand through the hair at the side of his head to tuck behind his ears. “What are you thinking? You'll grow it out again, or cut it short?” 

He's probably gonna do whatever he thinks you'll like, and he's smart enough to guess. “Grow it out?” 

Your delight is not subtle. “It's so soft. I love it. I love your curls.” You glance past him to the landing. “Hotch is looking at us. I'm gonna pretend I didn't see him.” 

“L/N.” 

“Or hear him.” 

“Reid,” Hotch tries. 

Spencer turns on the spot, baffled. You're told off often for flirting with him, but everyone jokes that Spencer is the unwitting party. Hotch gives him a reproachful look that seems to say, stop.

And the second bell rings. Not only does your affection go beyond the boundaries of a friendship, and act outside of playful teasing, Hotch sees it as a mutual partnership. As an equal back and forth. 

Well fine. If this is real, and he's apparently going to get in trouble for things now, he has to just– just do it, right? “Did you hear that?” he asks, laying the mock confusion on thick. 

Your laughter is immediate, loud and sudden and beautiful. You grab his arm and hide your head as though that might obscure the sound of your giggling, your perfume like a wave that hits him smack in the chest. He grins down at you, hand flying automatically to your shoulder.

A boyfriend-y touch, he'd say. 

Spencer could be your boyfriend. He could. You press your forehead to his chest to ride out your laughing and he can see the two of you together, not just a silly daydream but the real thing. 

“Don't be mad,” you're saying as you lift your head, your hand spreading over his arm, familiar in its gentleness. “Hotch, come on! I didn't see him at all this weekend, and he looks so nice today. You know he looks nice today, give me a break.” 

Your voice is shaped by your fondness for him, for Hotch, too, and stretched like a sheet of silk. Spencer doesn't think he could want you more. 

“I'm furious,” Hotch says plainly. “I want to see you both in my office. Preferably now.” 

You wait for him to go back into his office before giving Spencer a small, sorry smile. “My bad, handsome. That one's on me. Take you out to lunch to make up for it?” 

“How about I take you out to lunch?” he asks. 

“But you didn't do anything.” 

“Is that true?” he asks, giving you a nudge. “Come on. He's gonna yell at us about last Thursday's paperwork, you know, the Kentucky stuff.” 

Your eyes widen and your lips part, but you recover, sewing your arm through his as you lament, “Noooo, I forgot about that. He's gonna fry us alive.” 

You don't sound particularly upset. 

[jerzwriter]

Mono~poly Chapter 2: Love on Tap

A Tobias x Casey AU - Information and Notes

AU Premise: What happens when something that was supposed to be just fun turns into something real? When true love enters the equation between two people who view the very concept of love in different ways, can it work? In this alternate universe, we'll follow Casey and Tobias (and some others along the way) on their journey, where a happy ending is what both desire, but (as in life) nothing is guaranteed.

Fandom: Open Heart, Choices ** Pairing (This Chapter): Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish F!MC Other Characters: Jackie Varma, Ethan Ramsey, Sienna Trinh, OC: Addie Larkin Rating: Teen Words: 5,100

Chapter Summary: Tobias & Casey are reveling in their newfound love as those around them have different reactions to the news. Conversations with Ethan have him coming up with realizations of his own, and Casey sees that she and Tobias still have a lot to learn about each other.

A/N: Wow, I posted that without a chapter summary! lol See, don't do things when tired! No notes this time around, hope to have part 3 up next week! Thank you to all who have read this so far, it's so appreciated! :)

SERIES MASTERLIST SERIES INFORMATION MY MAIN MASTERLIST

“You’re out of your fucking mind.”

Standing at the brunch buffet, Jackie scooped a spoonful of scrambled eggs onto her plate as Casey stepped back. Her friend was known for her straightforwardness, which is why she valued her opinions, but her reaction was still surprising.

“This will never work,” Jackie continued. “You’re a smart woman; how do you possibly think it could?”

Casey snatched the last piece of French toast just as Jackie reached for it. She didn’t want French toast, but with her growing annoyance, the petty win offered a sense of satisfaction.

“Thank you, Jackie,” she replied, voice dripping with sarcasm. “I think what you meant to say was, Gee, friend! I’m so happy for you, friend! I can see you’re overjoyed, and that’s wonderful, my friend.”

Jackie sank into her chair and grabbed her fork, stealing the sole piece of French toast from Casey’s plate.

“Stop with the friend shit,” she snapped. “We’re friends because we call each other out on our shit. We’re real... no blowing sunshine up each other’s asses when we’re doing something stupid. That’s the foundation we are built on, and I see no reason to change that now.”

“A little support would be nice...”

“Then I suggest you call Sienna, but make sure to leave out some key details about last night when you do.”

“But I’m not being stupid! Come on! You like Tobias! You play the ‘he’s so irritating’ game, but I’ve seen you together. You welcomed him into our circle. He loves me and treats me like a princess, so why are you so negative about us?”

“Oh, I don’t know,” she said with a swirl of her fork. “Maybe it’s the conversation you had about offering him a pass to fuck someone else twelve seconds after you exchanged I love yous?”

“Jackie!” Casey snapped, glancing around to ensure no one overheard. “That’s not what happened!”

“It’s not? Because that’s what it sounded like to me.”

“Then I suggest getting your hearing checked because that’s not what I said! I said we’re taking things one day at a time. Neither of us wants to see anyone else right now, but if that changes, we won’t break up or cheat on each other like most people do. We’ll discuss it like adults and see if we can make it work. That’s so horribly immature of me, I can see why you would disapprove!”

Jackie opened her mouth to speak but thought better. With a sigh and a dismissive wave of her hand, she merely replied, “Whatever,” turning Casey’s irritation into ire.

“Really? You know damn well there are many ways to have a relationship! What’s with you! You’re always so open-minded about everything, but when it comes to me, this is how you react!”

“I live in Somerville, Casey! I’m pretty much polyamory adjacent, and you know I have no problem with non-monogamy. The problem is you’re monogamous, and no matter how much you try to tell me that you’d be OK with Tobias telling you he needs next Tuesday free to go fuck that hot nurse he used to hang out with at Kenmore, I know you’re full of shit. So, as your friend, it’s my duty to pull off those rose-colored glasses and make you see the real picture.”

Casey speared a hash brown so forcefully that her fork nearly cracked the plate. “He’s not going to fuck anyone next Tuesday. Did you miss where I said it’s just us?”

“For now,” Jackie emphasized. “It’s just you two, for now. It won’t be easier when you’re together longer, you love him more, you’re planning a future, and then when he tells you he needs... more?”

“Look, I didn’t make any promises outside of I'm willing to try. Obviously, there would be conversations and boundaries. But sex... it’s just sex! If I’m in a loving, happy relationship, why would I throw it away because my partner has a very normal desire to have sex with someone else on occasion?”

Jackie sighed with exasperation. “If you’re cool with it, that’s your choice. But... what if it’s not on occasion? What if he needs two or three nights a week with the side piece. And what if it’s not just sex? What if he falls in love with someone else? Are you willing to share that as well?”

“First, I don’t think the word side piece is used in consensual non-monogamy. Second, he’s 38 years old, and he’s loved one person in his lifetime. ME! So I'm no too concerned about that."

Jackie reached over the table and squeezed her friend's hand, the judgmental look in her eyes softening into one of sympathy. “Casey, we don’t exactly decide who we fall in love with. And when people start bumping uglies... feelings happen. A year ago, you two were just fun, and... now look.”

“Which is why we're taking it day by day.”

“All right,” Jackie resigned. “If this is what you want, I’m happy for you. I just hope you don’t get hurt.”  

“Thank you,” Casey demurred. “... I hope so, too.”

~~~~~

Tobias had an early shift the morning after their big declaration. While he was known for being bright-eyed and bushy-tailed as others glowered at him over their first cup of coffee, today, he was especially effervescent,  and that had people talking.

“I’d say he got laid last night,” a passing resident observed. “But I think that’s pretty much every night for him.” “Rumor has it he and MacTavish are official now!” their friend added. “Official? Carrick?” A nearby nurse scoffed. “Look out the window. If there aren't any floods, locusts, and famine, you got your story wrong.”

But the rumor spread like wildfire, and even those who avoided idle gossip found themselves desperate to know the truth. That included Dr. Harper Emery, who went straight to the source for answers. Swinging the door to the diagnostic team’s office open, she found Tobias seated at the conference table, Ethan reviewing files across from him.

“There you are!” Harper exclaimed.

“Dr. Emery,” Tobias chirped. “How can I be of assistance today?”

Ethan raised his eyes with suspicion, for he had also noticed Tobias’s excessive energy this morning but hadn’t questioned it until now. He wasn’t sure if he had come to expect this from his colleague or that he didn’t much care for the reason, and he was leaning toward the latter. Still, when Harper began questioning, Ethan’s attention was piqued.

“You know I’m not one to engage in hospital gossip, but sometimes, it’s so outlandish the scientist in me needs to determine its validity.”

“Oh, really?” Tobias smirked, pushing away from the table like a peacock about to spread its tail. “And how can I assist you with your dilemma?”

“Don’t be coy with me, Carrick. Is it true? Are you off the market?”

“Off the market?” He chuckled. “As of last night, Casey and I are official if that’s what you’re asking.”

Harper shook her head with amazement as Ethan choked on his coffee. Tobias turned to him with concern. “You all right there, buddy?”

“I’m fine,” Ethan insisted. “Something just... went down the wrong way.”

“You could say that again,” Harper grinned.

“So,” Ethan recovered. “You... and Casey... are official?”

“Yep,” Tobias beamed. “We’ve been unofficially official, but last night, we finally said it out loud.”

“And they said it couldn’t happen,” Harper teased. “But I must say, you do look happy! So I’m happy for you.”

“Oh, I'm unabashedly happy,” he insisted. “We both are.”

“Do you mind if I confirm that we part with Casey?” Harper taunted.

“Feel free! I have no doubt she’ll agree.”

Ethan’s lack of response was noticeable, and the stupified doctor felt the weight of his colleagues’ stares as he struggled to speak. “That’s... great news. I suppose... congratulations.”

Ethan quickly pivoted the conversation to the potential achalasia patient admitted late last night. When the discussion ended, Harper excused herself, but not before congratulating Tobias one more time. With her exit, an awkward silence overtook the room, and while Ethan was content to let it linger, Tobias didn't let it go.

“So, are we going to address the elephant in the room,” he asked. “Or are we going to feed it peanuts to keep it quiet?”

“What?” Ethan asked. “You and Casey? I don’t see why we need to discuss your personal life in a work setting.”

“Well, maybe because we all share the same work setting....”

“You make a point. Will you be notifying HR? You know, to ensure everything is on the up and up.”

“Already scheduled,”  Tobias confirmed. “Case and I already made an appointment to speak with the Director tomorrow.”

“Then,” Ethan slid his glasses back on. “It’s taken care of.”

Tobias anxiously rubbed his chin, his leg jiggling as he decided if he should continue.

“Are you alright with this?” he blurted before having the chance to think it entirely through.

Ethan removed his glasses and placed them back on the table; his mood difficult to read. Anger, annoyance, indifference—any would have been fitting. He reclined in his chair, giving careful thought to his words before continuing.

“Tobias... you and Casey are grown adults... and what you do outside of work is none of my concern.”

“I know that which is why I wasn’t asking for your permission. I’m merely asking if you’re OK with this.”

Ethan shrugged with a weary sigh. “Why ask useless questions, Tobias? Would it make a difference if I wasn’t? Would that change anything? If not, this conversation is pointless.”

“Stop the crap, Ethan. It has a purpose. We all work together. I consider you a friend even if you're not fully on board with that idea. But Casey is absolutely your friend – a good friend – and your opinion will matter to her, so it matters to me.”

Ethan smirked. “Don’t worry, Tobias, I’m not going to tell your girlfriend to break up with you.”

He hid it seamlessly, but the word “girlfriend” stuck in Ethan’s throat, and the discomfort lingered throughout the day, no matter how much he tried to wash it away.

Tobias was not one to be easily annoyed, but he was bordering on exasperation. He eyed the door to ensure it was closed before continuing.

“Ethan... I’m going to put my cards on the table. Even if Casey hadn’t shared some of your history with me, it’s the worst-kept secret at Edenbrook. Add in our own history, and....”

“Ancient history,” Ethan interrupted.

“Yes. Yes, it is. But turn on the news, buddy. Ancient history has a way of fucking up current times real good... and that’s something I don’t want to occur here.”

“Don’t worry,” Ethan assured. “Your relationship with Casey will not be impacted by any history with me unless one of you allows it to.”

“All right,” Tobias mumbled, returning to his work. But after a few moments passed, Ethan was compelled to say something more.

“I know you may not believe me, but... I’m happy for you. Both of you.”

“You are? You don’t have to say it if you don’t...”

“I think you know me well enough to know I won't say anything I don’t mean to placate you. It’s a bit awkward, I’ll give you that. But you appear to make one another happy, and when it comes down to it, I’d like to see you both happy.”

Tobias smiled, and the tension that engulfed them moments before all but melted away.

“Thanks, buddy. That... it means a lot to me.”

“I just have one request.”

“Name it.”

“Be good to her. Don’t... don’t hurt her, OK?”

“Hurting Casey is the last thing I want to do,” Tobias assured. “I mean it. I love her. I’ve never loved anyone like this, and I won't do anything stupid to mess it up.”

Ethan did his best to conceal how those words left him stricken, unintentionally pouring salt into wounds most would have believed were long healed.

“I’m glad to hear that,” Ethan smiled so convincingly he could have been nominated for an Oscar. “Now, let’s get back to work before the rest of the team arrives.”

~~~~~

Casey was blow-drying her hair in her tiny bathroom, though attempting to dry her hair would be a more accurate description. Her roommates—and Bryce—continually barging in was one thing. She was a veteran of that and knew how to usher them away until she completed her task. But today was different.

Today, she longed for a secretary to assist with the non-stop barrage of messages she was receiving. She knew the news would travel fast; it was Edenbrook, after all. But she never expected such an enthusiastic reaction. “OMG IS IT TRUE?” texts arrived by the dozen. Those messages were fun, but she would have put them on hold to continue getting ready. But there was no way she was ignoring the messages coming from her new boyfriend. Boyfriend!

With that, Casey returned to being protector of the mirror; Sienna was her first victim.

“Hey! I was here first!”

The diminutive doctor turned with a sly grin. “Sorry. I love you, but you snooze... you lose.”

“Sienna....” Casey wined. “You’re supposed to be the nice one!”

“I am! Relax, I’m just making a braid. I’ll be out of your hair, no pun intended.”

“All right,” Casey smiled.

“You aren't usually this concerned about your appearance when we're just going to Donahue’s,” Sienna teased. “What makes tonight so special?”

“Si...”

“Oh, I know!” she playfully chided. “It’s your big debut as Dr. Mrs. Carrick.”

Sienna underestimated how quickly her friend could maneuver. Within seconds, Casey grabbed the hot pink spray bottle off the counter and took aim.

“HEY!” Sienna protested.

“Sorry, this is how people train their pets. I’m going to try using it on my roommates.”  

 “You know I’m just teasing you,” Sienna giggled.

“I know. I just don’t want you guys scaring him away. I'm his first serious girlfriend, so let’s leave the word ‘wife’ out of conversations. I want to keep him around a little longer.”

“Around him? Of course!” Sienna insisted. “Around you? No freaking way.”

She gestured toward the mirror with a flourish. “Your mirror awaits! I’ll block the others from entering so you can get ready for your debut.”

She embraced Casey warmly before stepping away. “You look so happy!”  

“I am so happy.”

“And it’s well deserved! Tonight's going to be a great night.”

~~~~~

Casey was a ball of nervous energy as they turned onto Donahue’s street. Her skin-tight black satin pants, glittery gold cami, and matching sandals made quite a statement, and the hair she worked so hard to perfect was now a cascade of luscious, blonde waves. Her friends teased, saying she already landed the guy; she could relax now. But they didn't understand; she simply wanted her exterior to reflect how amazing she felt inside, and she nailed it.

Tobias, dressed a bit more casually than his freshly minted significant other was already waiting. He didn’t require much to command attention. His well-worn pale blue jeans and a black t-shirt that perfectly showcased the work he had been doing at the gym worked just fine.

He attracted a crowd wherever he went, and that’s just how he liked it. Sure, he reveled in the attention, but there was much more. Tobias had a unique talent for making each person feel like they were the only one in the room, and he loved making others feel seen. Tonight’s audience was predominantly strangers who had fallen under his spell, but one familiar face sitting perpendicular to him wasn’t nearly as impressed with him.

Addie had been his friend since he arrived in Boston nearly a decade before. One particularly gloomy night, he couldn’t stand the thought of sitting alone in his apartment for a minute longer, so he headed to a neighborhood watering hole not much different than the one they found themselves in tonight. He was seated alone at the bar when the curly-haired blonde rushed in from the rain, promptly slipping on the floor beside him. He helped her up and offered his medical services; she thanked him, then promptly called him a pervert. His raucous laughter made it clear no offense was taken, and, to Addie, that made him worthy of sharing a beer.

Their friendship blossomed effortlessly, and before long, she showed him enough of Boston for him to feel like a native. She introduced him to people she knew, and sometimes they forgot they hadn't been friends forever.

She hailed from a traditional Boston Irish family with whom she was estranged, but she retained some of their best traits. Addie Larkin knew from a young age that she wasn’t made to fit any mold, and she remained true to that, regardless of the price she had to pay. While she didn’t share Tobias���s boisterous personality, she still commanded the attention of a room as well as he did, and when the two were together, a good time was guaranteed.

They talked frequently and cherished each other but never managed to see each other as often as they wished. In fact, she wouldn’t have been at Donahue’s tonight if she hadn’t heard the news. Tobias Carrick had a girlfriend? She wouldn't believe it until she saw it with her own eyes. Ordering another round of drinks, she rolled her eyes at Tobias, who was entertaining the crowd with a story about the two of them breaking into the Franklin Park Zoo after hours.

“You did not!” A fetching young redhead squeaked, attempting to step closer to the handsome doctor.

“Most certainly did, young lady. But I wouldn’t have been able to do it without the mastermind here.”

“Please,” Addie scoffed. “Tobias has a tendency to make me into much more of a legend than I actually am.”

“That is entirely untrue!”

“It is true. Did he tell you why we snuck in? I was obsessed with the ring-tailed lemur, and after way too much bourbon, I convinced myself that the poor little fella was simply crushed because I hadn’t seen him in two weeks! That needed to be rectified immediately. That’s not legendary children,” she informed. “That’s insanity!”

Tobias draped an arm loosely around her shoulder. “As if insanity and being a legend are mutually exclusive! I’m of the belief that you can't be a legend unless you're a little off."

Ethan sauntered in at that very moment, hopping on the barstool next to Tobias.

“If that’s the case, you have exactly what it takes to be a legend, Carrick.”

“You see!” Tobias raised his beer. “I rest my case.”

Addie was already eyeing Ethan, subtly assessing him. Another trait she shared with Tobias... she could size someone up without them being remotely aware… unless she wanted them to be.

“Well, who is this handsome guy?” Addie asked with a smile.

“Handsome? Behind that scowl, maybe,” Tobias tittered. “This is my friend...”

“His boss,” Ethan injected.

“...Ethan. Ethan, this is my friend....”

“...and legend,” she added.

“...Addie.”

The tiny blonde extended a hand, eyes twinkling. “It’s very nice to meet you, Ethan.”

“Likewise,” he simpered, nodding toward her drink. “Could you use a refill?”

“Thank you, but I’m cut off for the night. I'll be driving soon. I’m only staying to meet Tobias’s girlfriend,” she said to the dismay of several people surrounding them. “I refuse to believe it’s true unless I see it with my own eyes.”

“Trust,” Ethan chuckled, motioning toward the bartender for a drink. “We all felt that way. But I can confirm, it’s for real.”

Addie went to respond, but her phone rang in her purse. “Oh, I have to take this,” she said, sliding down from her stool. “I’ll be right back!”

Ethan’s eyes trailed her as she walked away, only to find Tobias staring directly at him when he looked up. Clearing his throat nervously, he decided he had nothing to lose by asking.

“She seems lovely,” Ethan began. “Is she taken?”

“She is,” Tobias shrugged. “But that never seems to stop her, now that I think of it.”  

“Oh, in that case, I’ll pass. The last thing I need is drama.”

“On the contrary,” Tobias smirked. “I think you need more drama, my friend.”

“Sorry about that,” Addie announced upon her return. “I own a store in Cambridge, and my manager’s sort of new. She had a few questions that couldn’t wait.”

“Oh, what kind of a store?” Ethan inquired.

“Bohemian clothing, metaphysical stuff, incense... no offense, I don’t think you’d find it appealing.”

Ethan glared at Tobias, who choked on his beer.

“Hey, T. Will Casey be arriving soon? Alysha's not ready to close the store on her own yet, so I need to head out soon.”

“Affirmative! She’s on her way. She just got delayed by a five roommate pile up in her bathroom. Luckily, she was still able to get dressed, and no injuries were reported.”

“Five roommates!” Addie approved. “My kind of girl! I’m so glad you didn’t end up with one of those gorgeous, snobby assholes you used to date.”

Now, it was Ethan choking on his Scotch. “You know, I like her.”

“Casey is gorgeous,” Tobias corrected. “But I don’t think snobby or asshole remotely describe her.”

He heard the bells on the front door ring, indicating someone had entered, and turned just in time to see Casey appear.

“There’s my girl!” He hollered, turning to Addie with a brilliant smile. “Told you she’s gorgeous!”

“Hey!” Casey beamed as he pulled her close for a tender kiss. When they broke apart, Tobias had a smile that went all the way up to his eyes.

“Can you do me a favor?” He asked.

“Anything.”

He stepped back, obviously assessing the subject, and let out a low growl.

“Can you walk out and come back in? Because I need to watch that again.”

“Tobias,” she giggled. “How about you watch me walk back from the jukebox. Would that do? Besides,” she said, inconspicuously tapping the front of his jeans. “I have a feeling if you watch me too much, you’ll want to usher me right out of here.”

“Out of here or to the coat closet,” he leered while Ethan muttered something unintelligible.

“There’s plenty of time for that later,” Casey insisted. “Tonight, I'm showing off my new boyfriend.”

“Boyfriend,” Tobias grinned, wrapping his hands around her waist and lifting her onto the bar in front of him.

“Tobias, what are you doing?” She squeaked.

“Hey... everyone! Everyone, look over here. I have an announcement to make.”

Ethan dragged a hand down his face. “Jesus Christ!"

“Do you see this beautiful woman?”

“Yeah,” the crowd roared as Casey turned ten shades of crimson.

“This beautiful angel is my girlfriend, and I want all of you SOBs to know it!”

While most of the patrons cheered, there were some shocked faces and a few disapproving scowls within the crowd. But if anyone noticed them, it wasn't Tobias or Casey, who only had eyes for each other's eyes.

Jackie had elbowed her way through the mele and stood next to Tobias. “Aww, kiss her already!”

“Wow, have we turned you into a romantic?” Tobias asked.

“Oh, fuck no! Just do it and get her ass off the bar so I can order a drink!”

Tobias reached up and placed his hand behind Casey's neck, pulling her down for a long, passionate kiss as wolf whistles and cheers filled the room. Even Jackie managed to smile... just a little.

When Casey was back on solid ground, Addie turned to her with a welcoming grin. “All right, I have to ask because I know this man too well. This is for real, right? He didn’t pay you to pull a prank or something.”

 “No,” Casey assured. “This is the real deal.”

“Well, I’m astonished... and so happy... to hear that. I’m Addie,” she said, extending her hand. “Tobias and I go way back, and I had to come see this for myself!”

Casey enthusiastically shook her hand, mentally sifting through past conversations to see if Tobias had ever mentioned Addie, but nothing registered.

“Well, it’s lovely to meet you,” Casey beamed. But Addie raised a brow.

“He’s never mentioned me, has he?” She turned to Tobias and struck his shoulder. “You prick! You have been dating her for a year, and you never told her about me!”

“Well,” he smiled slyly. “We were often preoccupied with other things.”

“For a full year?” Addie bleated before holding up her hand. “Wait, no. Nevermind. It’s you... I’m sure that’s 100% true.”

Casey looped her arm around Tobias’s waist, and he pulled her close.

“In fairness, until last night, we never defined what we were. I’m sure we still have a lot to learn about each other now.”

“Oh, honey!” Addie said, taking Casey’s hand. “I hope I didn’t offend you. This is just how I bust this asshole’s chops.”

A wide grin spread on Casey’s face. “Oh, we’re going to get along just fine.”

“I’m inclined to agree with you,” Addie winked.

“Oh, great. They're already ganging up on me.”

Ethan raised his glass with a smirk. “This is why I avoid relationships.”

“Oh yeah,” Tobias teased. “That’s why!”

“I wish I didn’t have to cut out so early,” Addie sighed. “But I have to go to Cambridge to help my new manager close my shop. But I’m going to see a friend perform at The Burren in Somerville later; why don’t you guys come?”

“We’d love to,” Tobias grinned, turning to Casey. “But we’re a little tied up tonight.”

“Literally or figuratively,” Addie chortled.

“Whatever she’s willing to do,” Tobias shrugged.

 “Ahh, I’m never going to see this man again, am I, Casey?”

“Oh, no!” Casey insisted. “We'll be spending plenty of time together, of course, but our friends matter, too! He’ll still be seeing you. I'll make sure of it.”

“Well, that’s good to know!” Addie stepped off her bar stool, offering Tobias and Casey a quick hug.

“It was lovely meeting you,” she said to Casey, then looked over her shoulder at Ethan. "You too, by the way."

“Likewise," he nodded. Then Addie was out the door.

“I like her,” Casey confirmed.

"Oh, Addie is the best!"

“We’ll have to hang out sometime. Is she seeing anyone?”

“She has a boyfriend, but I’ve only met him once or twice in passing.”

“Well, we’ll have to change that! Maybe we can double date?”

“I don’t know about this,” Tobias said playfully, looking at his watch. “I have a girlfriend for 20 hours, and she’s already controlling my schedule.”

“Oh, fuck you, T!” She laughed as he snarled.

“Gladly!”

“Oh, Christ!” Ethan interrupted. “Are we going to be subjected to this all night?”

Tobias pat his friend on the back. “Nope. With any luck, you’re going to be subjected to this for the rest of your life.”

“I need to find another bar,” Ethan sighed.

“No, you don't,” Casey insisted, grabbing his hand. “Screw that, come and dance with me.”

“Casey, you know I don’t...”

“Dance with me!”

Ethan turned to Tobias, hoping he would save him. But Tobias just smiled as he hopped back on his stool.

“If the lady says dance... dance.”

Casey was having the time of her life on the dancefloor, while poor Ethan looked like a fish out of water. When the lively tune abruptly led into a slow ballad, Ethan thought he found his salvation. He already had one foot off the floor when he said, “I suppose we should sit.”

But Casey wasn’t done. “Ethan, you’re allowed to dance with me. Tobias isn’t going to bite you.”

“Is this where you tell me that’s because he’s saving it to bite you later?”

“No,” she grinned, placing her arm on his shoulder and keeping a friendly distance between them. “But dance with me. It’s the perfect place to have a private conversation in a crowded bar.”  

She could feel the itchy wool of his sweater scratch against her skin as his chest rose and fell, and she had to smile. Tobias and Ethan were only three months apart in age. Tobias always called himself an old man, but Ethan fit the moniker so much more.

“I didn’t realize we had to talk,” he whispered.

“Well, we do. I wanted to let you know that nothing will change between us. I'm dating Tobias, but our friendship remains the same. You still mean just as much to me.”

“Casey, I...”

“Let me finish!” She scolded as his face softened, that smile only she brought out of him spreading on his lips.

“Go on.”

“You always say I'm your favorite mentee, and you continue to be a mentor to me, but that role is secondary. The most important thing is that you're my friend. I know we didn’t end up where we thought we might a few years ago… or maybe we did. Either way, you’re very important to me. Promise me our relationship won’t change.”

Ethan smiled down at her, silently kicking himself for having been such a fool.

"Nothing will change," he muttered. "I promise."

“Good,” she replied, leaning her head on his chest. “Now, I need to hook you up with someone so we can double date.”

“What's your obsession with double dating?" He laughed. "But there is no need. I am fine as I am."

“No, you’re not,” she dismissed. “There’s no chance you and Harper....”

“Casey...”

“All right, what about Addie? She’s hot, and she was totally checking you out.”

“Did you forget Tobias said she has a boyfriend? Though, he also said that wouldn’t be much of a hindrance.”

“Oh?” Casey said. “Would that work for you?"

“Shut up and dance," he smirked.

Casey stepped back and grinned. "How can we keep dancing? The song is over."

“Then... can have one more?”

“Of course," she smiled.

When the song ended, they returned to the bar, where Tobias welcomed her back. The night was full of drinking, laughter, and friends, and the new couple was unable to keep their hands off each other, becoming more affectionate with each drink imbibed.

“Would you two get a fucking room?” Jackie grimaced.

“I’ve got several rooms at my place,” Tobias purred into Casey’s ear. “What do you say? Ready to get out of here?”

Casey didn’t think twice. “Bye, guys!” she yelled as she clutched Tobias’s hand and raced toward the door. “See you soon!”

Once they were gone, Jackie clinked her beer against Ethan’s. The two took a drink and let out simultaneous sighs.

“This is going to be difficult. Isn’t it?” Jackie asked.

"Varma, you have no idea."

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately

[riddles-n-games]

I don't know how my brain hasn't rotted yet but I had another thought on Rohan. Specifically him and Zella. At the end of the Game, when Jameson and his uncle returned from their little heart-to-heart, Rohan and Zella have a little bickering match. The duchess implies that she has been chosen by the Proprietor to run the Game the following year. Now, you can see that Rohan gets somewhat standoffish about that and Zella states that he isn't his boss's only choice. In this scene, I'm immediately taken back to The Inheritance Games when Grayson was butting heads with Avery after he found out she was his grandfather's heiress.

Throughout The Brothers Hawthorne, where Rohan is concerned, it's implied that he's the second in command, the Factotum, the unofficial heir apparent. However, the problem is, like Grayson, he was never actually named heir apparent officially and he was still being tested to prove his worth. Unlike Grayson, he did have competition to assert himself to that position and in fact, who knows if the Proprietor would have picked him as the sole heir anyways? His boss could have easily led him on, much like Tobias did to his own grandson.

Going back to Gray, let's be clear, I honestly don't think any of his brothers expressed a want for the inheritance money; Jameson was only riling him up, Nash said he wasn't after it, and Xander already had his millions worth in crypto. The only real people who would have any use of Gray inheriting would be his mother, mostly so she could rub it in Zara's face. The competition he faced as a child with his brothers were for different reasons and it was intended to make the boys be the best, but that doesn't automatically translate to the heir to the inheritance. It was more who was going to be known as the best Hawthorne which is what made the brothers so competition oriented. And let's be honest, Gray would have been a great leader but I think what Avery ended up doing with the money helped him view things differently.

Now, reverting to Rohan again, he kept acting as if he was in control of every situation (sound like someone we know?) and tried to appear as unaffected as possible. He also challenged when he felt in question of his position, much like Grayson interrogated Avery at every turn until she ultimately gained his respect. But, that's not what Rohan's going through and maybe Gray accepted where he was at and is slowly reconvening to a place where he can be in control of his future now that the original has been torn to shreds, however, the Factotum is still in a place of shifting power. He still holds a position and has the chance to get what he's working towards but still, that might not happen. This is what could be revealed as to how he gets into the Grandest Game.

As much as Rohan can be viewed as a mirror Jameson, he also shares a lot in common with Grayson and as you can see, their stories are very similar. I think that the reason we'll be getting him as a player in TGG is because he either set out to prove himself in a different way to the Proprietor or he set out to do this for himself because he knows his worth and can achieve more by winning this game. Maybe this is his moment to actually detach from the Devil's Mercy because he realized that it was never going to give him more even after all the time he spent there doing all he could to show he deserves the position. And isn't that something we can all relate to? It's scary letting go of what you've known for so long but knowing you've proved yourself even if others can't see that is sometimes enough to move on to something better, something more fulfilling.

[alj4890]

OK, OK, OK... your assignment, if you choose to accept it:

An alternate version where Ethan bursts into the photo booth between pics 3 and 4.

I want this, but I'm shivering in fear that it will impede my beloved T/C. Of course, the original is canon in my mind; this would be sliding doors... and I still hope T/C end up together! lol)

GIRL, WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO ME TODAY!!!! lol

*rolls up my sleeves and digs deep into my angsty bag of tricks all while cackling*

Alright @jerzwriter , I wasn't sure where this one would go when I started it, but here's where we ended up. I think this is how it would have gone down with Ethan bursting in. Some things are inevitable after all.

Original Version of Processing and Developing

Song Inspiration for this (since I'm a sucker for a good angst driven song): Without You by Henry Nilsson

Masterlist

Processing and Developing: Interrupted

Ines and Angie's Wedding reception...

They didn't take any props.

Ethan eyed the photo booth that Tobias had pulled a more than willing Chris into.

There were only a couple of reasons two people went into a photo booth together, and the one he suspected had him walking over to either prove or disprove his theory.

The first picture showed Tobias and Chris laughing.

That's not too alarming, Ethan thought. After all, they are the only two people I know who manage to always find humor in the most mundane things in life.

The second one revealed the pair actually posing for an average, smile filled picture.

Normal reaction to a camera flashing, Ethan thought with relief.

The third one revealed the couple looking at one another.

Wait. Tobias is looking at her like he might be falling for her. And Chris...she...are they going to...

The curtain being jerked back caused Tobias and Chris to jump apart. Ethan stood a touch breathless in the opening. He didn't know why he reacted like this. He only knew some previous, unknown fear was about to manifest itself.

His eyes darted back and forth between the two.

Were they about to kiss?

"Ethan?" Tobias asked. "Is something wrong?"

"I changed my mind." He declared after a few seconds of mad scramble for a reason for bursting in on them. "Let's, um, let's get that team photo you wanted."

"Hold on!" Chris reached out to stop him before he could go find Harper. "You're really willing to do a goofy picture?"

"We can do both." Ethan decided. "One for you two and one that Harper and I wouldn't mind hanging in the office."

Tobias chuckled over that compromise.

"Are you saying the goofy one won't be part of our officer's decor?"

Ethan rolled his eyes. "I have no doubt that someone," he glanced at Chris, "or some people, will find a way to have it hanging in a different spot each day."

"And multiple copies of said picture in case someone throws it away each day." Tobias added.

Chris snorted on her laughter. She had no doubt that Tobias would come up with new and ingenious ways to keep the picture they originally wanted in place.

Her partner in crime smiled at her while waving Ethan out of the booth.

"Go grab Harper. Chris and I will make sure to keep the booth occupied."

Ethan's jaw spasmed at the mere thought of leaving them alone. After what almost occurred, he didn't trust Tobias to make another move on Chris. With the way she was looking at Tobias in that picture, Ethan doubted she'd offer any resistance.

She might even encourage him.

"Why don't you go through the box of props while I find Harper?" He countered, doing his best to avoid his real reason for getting them out of the perfect spot to share an illicit kiss. "I'll let you choose what we're to wear."

Tobias's jaw dropped. He could hardly believe Ethan would give him that much power after all he'd done to him during their college years.

Still, who was he to argue with this unexpected gift?

"Sounds like a plan." Tobias rose off the bench.

He held his hand out to Chris.

"Ready to make this the best picture ever, Valentine?"

Her delighted smile made Ethan feel both relieved and slightly guilty. He tried not to notice that not only did she readily take Tobias's hand, but also kept it there as they exited the booth. He also noticed that it took all of his own willpower to walk away from them to find Harper.

He glanced back at the pair a couple of times as he made his way through the wedding guests. They were eagerly going through the various wigs, clown noses, and oversized glasses. Their laughter drifted over the music and buzz of conversations.

"I see you decided to join me." Harper said once he reached her side. "Want me to order you a drink?"

"No." His eyes remained on the pair. "I actually came to--"

Damn it.

He shouldn't have left them alone.

Chris was trying on a curly green wig. She placed a hand on her hip, sticking it out to one side while placing her other hand behind her head. Playfully fluttering her eyelashes, she said something that Ethan didn't doubt was flirtatious. If he was to go by Tobias moving closer to study her, he knew what she said was working.

Tobias's teasing smirk softened as he leaned down to look directly into her eyes.

Even from where Ethan was, he could see the blush cover her face and neck.

Chris blinked and asked what he was looking at.

Ethan knew what it was. Those gray-green eyes of hers could cause anyone to pause. He'd found himself momentarily tongue-tied a time or two, especially if she wore something green. That color set her eyes off to perfection.

Though it was a cheap, bright green wig, he knew it must have done the trick in capturing Tobias's attention.

"We're going to take a picture." Ethan muttered when Harper tugged on his sleeve to get his attention.

"We are?" She asked in utter disbelief. "But I thought--"

Ethan grasped her arm and pulled her away from the bar.

Wide eyed, Harper was struck speechless over his unusual behavior.

As they approached, they heard the last bit of Tobias's compliment to Chris.

"...not only mesmerizing, but absolutely gorgeous."

Ethan silently cursed. He was forced to watch as the praise of those incredible eyes made Chris shy. A hint of a smile played about her lips as she averted those very eyes from Tobias.

"I um, thank y--"

"Are we doing this or what?" Ethan demanded.

All three stared at him in surprise. His harsh tone was difficult to ignore.

"Are you sure you want to?" Chris asked.

Ethan looked at her. Grimacing over being unable to hide his irritation over seeing her flirt with another man, which was ridiculous since he'd been the one to keep her in the colleague/friend zone, he gave a curt nod. He didn't trust himself to actually answer her and reveal how much he wanted her.

Harper glanced back and forth between him and Chris. Her brow furrowed the longer she studied Ethan. She couldn't recall seeing him so agitated over taking a simple picture.

Chris mentally groaned. She didn't know why Ethan was being more moody than usual. She was tired of never knowing what would set him off. In the past, when she tried to get closer to him, he became irritated. When she stayed away, he became sullen. She wished she knew the appropriate relationship to have with him so she could stop walking on eggshells every single time he was around.

Reaching up, she tugged the wig off her head and did her best to smooth her hair down.

"We'll just take a professional picture." Chris decided. "We won't make you and Harper miserable."

Harper opened her mouth to argue that she didn't mind getting a little silly.

Ethan spoke up before she did.

"Let's get this over with."

Tobias snorted. "No need to sound too excited, Ethan."

Ethan glared at him. He knew he sounded like an ass right now. He didn't need any snarky remarks pointing that fact out. What he wanted, he couldn't have. Wasn't he allowed to be human and regret what he'd done?

With a clenched jaw, Ethan walked into the photo booth and sat down on the bench.

He then noticed the new problem the four of them would have.

There wasn't enough room for everyone to sit down.

"Hmm?" Harper squeezed in beside him while eyeing the lack of space. "I don't think we'll fit.

Chris stepped in next followed closely by Tobias.

"Uh oh." Chris mumbled as she glanced back at Tobias. "Now what's the plan?"

Tobias grinned as he sat down, almost squishing Harper between himself and Ethan. He reached up and pulled Chris into his lap.

"There." He brushed her hair back off her right shoulder and placed his chin upon it. He reached over to hit the start button. "Everyone, smile!"

Ethan couldn't do it. His blood boiled to see Chris sitting in another man's lap. He could do nothing but stare straight ahead.

No, he thought to himself. That isn't it.

It wasn't the fact she was in some random guy's lap. It was the fact that she was being practically cuddled by a man that Ethan felt could steal her away.

For good.

What is my end game here? I've been saying I couldn't be with her because of her career. She's soon going to take the boards and be done with her residency. Was I subconsciously planning to try and finally be with her?

Do I have a right to do that to Chris? Expect her to forget three years of rejection? Fall into my arms? Want me after all that?

Ethan's frown deepened as the camera flashed a third time. He couldn't think of anything he'd done to deserve her forgiveness for constantly telling her they couldn't be together after occasionally succumbing to temptation.

Chris glanced over at Ethan and noticed that he wasn't smiling. She reached past Harper before the final flash to poke his stubbled jaw.

He looked up at her.

Her smile, a ghost of the one she'd given him that long ago night in Miami appeared.

"Show off those famous Ramsey dimples." She ordered.

Unable to stop the smile creeping up at having her attention along with a reminder of how she'd once said his dimples could make a girl melt, he turned back to face the camera.

"One of those is bound to be good." Harper said once it was over. "I already have the perfect frame in mind we can use for it."

Chris eased out of Tobias's arms to see how their pictures turned out. The others followed her, each peering over her shoulders to see which one they looked the best in.

"It took five tries," Tobias teased, "but our fearless leader was finally able to remember how to pose in front of a camera."

Ethan rolled his eyes as he studied the images. He ignored himself and Harper to see how Tobias and Chris looked.

One picture had Tobias turned towards Chris. His lips were pressed to her cheek.

Ethan felt his heart sink to see that Chris had her eyes closed in that particular photo as if relishing the feel of his lips upon her skin.

"That last one is definitely the best." Chris declared, beaming at all of them.

She tore off the fifth one and handed it to Harper to frame once they returned to Boston.

Tobias reached over and plucked the remaining photos out of Chris's grasp.

Winking at her, he tore off the second picture and placed it in the inside pocket of his jacket.

"How about a dance?" He asked, taking Chris's hand once more.

"Love to." She waved goodbye to Ethan and Harper as they walked out towards the dance floor.

"I had no idea they were together." Harper said once they were out of earshot. "Did you?"

Ethan attempted to swallow the bitter lump forming in his throat.

"No. I didn't."

Harper looked up at him, seeing the pain etched in his handsome features.

"Ethan? Are you in lo--"

Her jaw dropped when he walked out on the dance floor to cut in on the beginning of Tobias and Chris's slow dance.

With a friendly smile, Tobias stepped back and let him take his spot.

Ethan placed one hand at the lower part of Chris's back while taking her hand in his other. On the beat, he guided her in a slow box step.

Chris's smile began to dim as she noticed how serious he looked.

"Ethan, what's--"

"Don't." He pleaded. "Please, don't say a word."

He pressed her closer to him, fingers tightening around hers.

"Just let me have this moment." He whispered in her ear. "And then I'll let you go back to Tobias."

Chris's steps faltered for a moment. As if knowing how much it would hurt Ethan if she stopped dancing to question the current mood he was in, she got back into rhythm with him. Lacing her fingers with his, she gently squeezed his hand while resting her cheek against his.

She knows, he thought, that this is the end.

Ethan closed his eyes. He knew if he'd only given in to what they'd once both wanted, this dance would simply be one of many they would have shared. There would have been stolen kisses as their bodies brushed against one another's. He knew Chris, being her affectionate self, would have insisted on remaining in his arms the rest of the night.

And he knew he'd never have let her go.

As the last chords played, their steps stilled.

Ethan swallowed before forcing himself to lift his head away from hers.

Their eyes met. As much as he hoped to see that old flicker of desire in those green depths, he felt a little relieved that there was nothing but a somewhat sad understanding reflected in them. He was for once not the one to push her away from what could be.

She somehow managed to smile at him as she stepped out of his arms.

The small space between seemed to widen with what he knew was inevitable.

"Thank you for the dance." She said softly.

"I should be thanking you." He replied, longing to pull her back for another.

Before he could say anything else, she turned around to search the crowd.

He felt his heart sink into what would be its now permanent state when Tobias appeared to ask her if she'd like to take a walk with him down on the beach.

Chris nodded, her smile once again returning to its former joy, and took his offered hand.

Without looking back, the pair disappeared into the night.

A little while later, Harper joined Ethan at the bar.

Noticing the grim set of his lips, she wondered what would help him in this moment.

"Ethan?"

"Hmm?"

Harper placed her hand over his. "Why didn't you tell Chris?"

Not meeting her concerned gaze, he merely shrugged.

"It's too late for anything like that."

Harper shook her head. "It's never too late."

"This time, you're wrong." He replied. "Whatever Chris once felt for me is nothing compared to what she now feels for Tobias."

She grimaced. "From what he was saying earlier, he has fallen for her pretty hard."

Ethan's eyes widened. "Tobias actually talked to you about it?"

"I asked him about their relationship. He was more than willing to talk about what she means to him. Tobias told me that the more time he spent working with Chris, the more he realized she was the only one for him."

Ethan closed his eyes against that information. Taking a deep breath, he finished off his glass of scotch and got to his feet.

"Then it's just like I said." He turned to leave. "It's too late to tell Chris how I feel."

With that, he made his way back to the hotel.

[soulofapatrick]

Whispers in the Night - Greyson Hawthorne x Reader

Summary: You and Greyson are in a secret relationship and one night leads to you two deciding you want to tell to everyone

Words: 3.7k

Warnings: Smut (p in v); fingering

Notes: I hope this is what the anon who requested Greyson spice was looking for! feedback is always welcome

Y/N’s POV

I had been living in the Hawthorne mansion for a few years now, ever since I was taken in by that man - Tobias Hawthorne - and became a part of their peculiar everyday. Adjusting to this new life had been a whirlwind, and I fund myself spending most of my time with Greyson Hawthorne, the enigmatic and brooding second eldest. His charm, mysterious aura and those smouldering grey eyes never failed to captivate me. 

Our relationship had evolved beyond friendship over those years. The intense chemistry between us was undeniable, and there was an unspoken understanding that went beyond words. We would steal secret glances when no one was looking, share playful smiles and engage in conversations that would leave our hearts racing. 

In the dead of night, we would meet in secluded corners of the mansion, hidden away from prying eyes. The library, the conservatory, the labyrinthine hallways – they all became the backdrop of our secret rendezvous. It was in these stolen moments that our connection deepened. We would talk about our hopes, fears, and dreams, laying bare our souls under the moon's gentle gaze. Our relationship flourished in stolen kisses, tender touches, and lingering embraces that spoke of longing and desire. Greyson's lips were a temptation I couldn't resist, and his kisses left me breathless, wanting more. Each stolen moment we shared was a testament to the powerful attraction between us, the magnetic pull that we couldn't ignore. 

Tonight was a sleepless night for me, I tossed and turned in my extravagant bedroom, unable to shake off the unsettling feeling that something was missing. A quiet longing had settled within me, leaving me restless and uneasy. My heart raced as I contemplated what to do, and before I could overthink it, I’m slipping out of bed. 

With determined steps, I navigate the familiar corridors of the mansion, avoiding the creaky floorboards that could betray my late-night escapade. My destination was always clear in my mind, even though I had never shared my intention with anyone. My heart pounds in my chest as I stand before Greyson’s bedroom door, hesitation for a moment.

What if I wake him? What if he’s not alone tonight? These thoughts whirl in my mind, but the pull is too strong to resist. I press my ear to the door, straining to catch any sign of movement or sound within. Only silence greets me. Taking a deep breath, I slowly turn the handle and let myself inside. 

As I enter Greyson’s room, I find hi at his desk, bathed in a gentle, silvery light of the lamp on his desk. He’s engrossed in a book, his attention fixated on the pages, and he doesn’t immediately notice my presence. His incredibly handsome features are illuminated by the gentle glow of the lamp, his tousled light blond hair catching the subtle highlights. His strong jawline and intense gaze remains fixe on the words before him. 

I watch in fascination, my heart pounding, as he flips a page with careful deliberation. His long fingers gracefully turn the parchment, and I can see the slight crease in his brow, evidence of the concentration he pours into his reading. His sharp cheekbones cast captivating shadows in the soft light, and the subtle curve of his lips hold an unspoken story, a secret that only I seem to know. 

The room is filled with the scent of old books and the quiet rustling of pages, a backdrop to Greyson’s solitary world. The way he immerses himself in the story, the way his grey eyes dart across the text, absorbing every word, it’s as if nothing else exists for him in this moment. 

A sense of  vulnerability washes over me as I stand in the doorway, feeling like an intruder in his private sanctuary. Yet, that same vulnerability is what makes me yearn for him more intensely. I long to be a part of his world, to share in his passions, to be the one who captures his attention in a way that no book ever could. 

The room remains silent, save for the soft rustling of pages as I approach Greyson's desk. My footsteps are a mere whisper, barely registering in the dimly lit space. When I reach his desk, I extend a hand and rest it gently on his shoulder, my touch a delicate caress meant to draw him away from the written world and into the reality of our desires. Greyson’s pale gray eyes, bordering on silver, finally lift from the pages, and they lock onto mine. There's a glimmer of surprise, quickly giving way to a slow, sensual smile that sends a thrilling shiver down my spine. The air between us is charged with unspoken longing, and in that moment, the world outside ceases to exist. 

His book is placed aside with deliberate care, his attention now fully on me. Greyson pushes his chair back just enough to allow me to straddle him. As I settle onto his lap, his hands, strong and confident, find my hips, their warmth a contrast to the cool, silvery light that bathes the room. 

The gray of his eyes darkens, deepening with an intensity that mirrors the desire building between us. We’re locked in unspoken understanding, the energy in the room palpable. I lean in, capturing his lips in a passionate kiss, our connection deepening as our tongues dance in the silvery glow, and the lines between our desires and the mysterious world we live in blur, fading into the background. 

The moment our lips meet, it’s as if a spark ignites, setting us both ablaze with a feverish, pent-up passion. Greyson’s mouth is warm and inviting, and the taste of his desire is an intoxicating elixir. As our tongues entwine in a fervent, hungry dance, a fiery heart simmers within me, spreading like wildfire through my veins.

His hands on my hips are a potent combination of strengths and gentleness, guiding me and holding me close. The tension between us is palpable, the weight of our shared longing making each touch, each caress, feel charged with electric energy. I feel his desire growing beneath me, a firm, urgent need that matches the favour of my own. 

Our kiss deepens further, becoming a passionate symphony of desire and yearning. The lines between our desires and the enigmatic world of the Hawthorn mansion blur into nothingness. In this stolen moment, we are bound by our love, our insatiable attraction, and the silvery glow of the room, casting shadows that echo the secrets we’ve kept hidden for far too long. 

Finally, Greyson breaks the kiss, his lips parting from men with a sated smile that speaks of longing fulfilled. His hands find their way back to my hips, and with a strength that leaves me breathless, his lifts me from his lap. As he stands, carrying me effortlessly, the silver light dances around us, adding an almost ethereal quality to the moment. 

He gently places me down on the bed, and before I can react, Greyson is hovering over me, his desire and intensity palpable. Our eyes lock, a connection unspoken yet deeply understood, and I see the same longing mirrored in his grey-silver orbs. His hands slip under the fabric of my pyjama shirt, his touch feather-light as his fingers trail softly up my sides. With each delicate caress, he raises the fabric, his intent clear. As my shirt gradually slides upwards, he helps me pull it over my head, leaving me exposed and vulnerable under the silvery glow. 

Once the shirt is discarded, Greyson looks down at me, his gaze intense and filled with desire. His eyes, a mesmerising blend of grey and silver, seem to devour every inch of me, as if I am a forbidden treasure he’s longed to explore. As I lay there, exposed, a shiver of vulnerability washes over me. It’s as if I should hide, cover myself up, but Greysons intense gaze holds me in place. His eyes roam my body with an intensity that makes my heart race. 

I can feel his desire, his longing, and it’s both electrifying and terrifying. But then he’s speaking, his voice a soothing balm to my insecurities, “You’re so beautiful,” He says, his words a declaration that carries more weight than mere compliments, “Every single part of you is perfection.” 

In that sublime moment, bathed in the soft embrace of silvery light, my heart leaps with joy as Greyson and I share a profound and deeply intimate revelation. It's the very first time we've allowed those three powerful words to slip from our lips, unburdened by the secrets we've held for far too long. This utterance isn't merely a declaration of love; it's a testament to the extraordinary bond that transcends the confines of the enigmatic world we inhabit. 

Greyson, overcome with the same emotions that swirl within me, leans down, his lips capturing mine in a passionate and loving kiss. The connection we share is ignited with a heat that mirrors the years of desires we’ve harboured. Our moths meld together in a passionate dance, a promise of unquenchable love and longing. His hands, like explorers of undiscovered territory, glide along my bare skin, leaving a trail of electric sensations in their wake. I gasp into the kiss, each touch a testament to his unwavering affection, every caress a confirmation of the intense desire that binds us. 

As we lose ourselves in our passionate kiss, the air around us becomes heavy with longing, and I can feel the undeniable proof of Greyson’s desire pressing against my thigh. His hips grind down against mine, creating an exquisite friction that leaves no room for doubt about mutual want. My hands slide up his shoulders and into the soft tufts of hair at the nape of his neck while he leans on his elbows, the rough pad of his thumb caressing my cheek and a look of adoration crossing his face. It makes me feel shy and I’m flushing which has him leaning down and capturing me in another sweet and loving kiss that leaves me breathless. The kiss is slow and gentle, filled with tenderness and affection as we try to express what we can’t say. My body relaxes under his, feeling his body against mine and feeling how fast his heart is beating as he nibbles at my bottom lip

“I am so in love with you,” He murmurs, voice low and rich, barely above a whisper and has my breath catching in my throat at those words. His gray eyes are filled with honestly and love and it all feels so cliche as it feels like the rest of the world fades away. I’m having to clear my throat before I choke out those three words back, my heart swelling with happiness and love for this man hovering over me. 

He’s kissing me again, deepening the kiss as his hands move from my face to my hips, fitting perfectly in the dips as if his hands were made to sit there. As if my body was sculptured just for him and his hands, the way his fingers dip into the waistband of my panties with a silent question that has me lifting my hips for him. They’re on the floor with my shirt in seconds and his fingers, long and elegant are ghosting over my already soaked heat, gathering the arousal on them before circling my clit gently. A whimper of his name escapes my lips which he swallows in a searing kiss, fingers moving faster against my clit as his mouth drags hot and open mouthed kisses down my neck. 

“G-Grey…” I’m tugging at his shirt and jeans, needing him more than I ever could imagine. He soothes me, his mouth hot against my skin as he trails them down my neck. His teeth scraping against the skin as he sucks bright purple hickeys into it, as if he no longer cares about the secrecy of our relationship. As if he wants everyone to know I’m his and his alone and oh fuck, my head is falling back to hit the pillows in bliss. 

“Fuck baby,” He’s whining, pressing himself flush against me and capturing me in another breathtaking kiss, this one wanting more and it doesn’t take long for me to tangle my hand in his hair and tug experimentally. The breathy moan he lets out has me tugging harder, wanting to hear more and his hands grip my hips tightly, “You keep doing that…”

Before I can fully process the fervour of our intimate moment, Greyson’s urgency propels him off the bed. In a swift, almost effortless motion, his clothes begin to fall to the floor., revealing the breathtaking sight of his naked form in front of me. 

As he stands there, his pale skin is flush with desire and hear, an exquisite canvas brought to life under the silvery glow of the room. His every contour, every line, and every muscle are an embodiment of passion and yearning. The room seems to pulse with anticipation, mirroring the intensity of our desires. 

Lips are on my thighs, kisses scattering their way up, unshaved stubble burning the sensitive skin a little and as much as I’d love for him to eat me out, having seen the way he eats ice cream I need him. My hands reach for his blond locks, pulling him away from my aching core and back over me, drawing him for a slow and passionate kiss while wrapping my legs around his waist. He gets the hint, chest rising and falling quickly as he murmurs in my ear, “You need prepping baby.” It has me whining, back arching with need when he circles a pad of his finger around my wet heat. 

Any sound I make is swallowed by those addictive lips when he finally pushes a finger in, my walls immediately trying to clench around it and it draws a guttural sound from him. His lips trail down my neck and chest, teeth grazing my nipples before he’s sucking while beginning to move his finger inside me. All of it has my slamming a hand over my mouth as I try to stay quiet, especially when a second finger joins the first and he’s stretching me out. He’s rocking his hips into my leg, trying to be patient to make sure I’m comfortable but if he doesn’t stop soon I’m going to come

I know he can feel me fluttering around his fingers, a cheeky smile on his lips where they’re not biting another hickey into my skin, fingers curling and hitting that bundle of nerves that steals the air from my lungs. It’s as if he already knows my body with the way he has me teetering on the edge of bliss, my walls trying to keep him in and my thighs slamming shut around his arm. His thumb comes up to rub teasing circles into the hard bud and it has my body tensing as I cry our his name, wave after wave of ecstasy shuddering through my body and my mind blanks of everything except Greyson. 

“Grey… Fuck, Grey I need you.” I should feel embarrassed at how much I’m whining but the man is taking me apart like he knows my body and the way his lips curve into a small smile against my collarbone he knows exactly what he’s doing to me. His left hand finds mine as he teases me, his right hand reaching between us and grabbing his dick, his tip tapping against my clit a few times before he lines himself up. 

“Baby, are you sure?” He asks softly, pulling back enough to see my face and I’m nodding so fast I think I might get whiplash. I’ve never been so sure about anything else, needing Greyson here and now or I might die. It’s all the encouragement he needs to slowly begin to slide in, my eyes squeezing shut as he’s thicker than he could have prepared me for but he’s murmuring sweet nothings in my ear, lips ghosting my neck, “Shhh, shhhh, it’s okay baby I’ve got you sweetheart. It’s alright. Deep breaths. Relax baby girl. I’ve got you.” 

The whispers accompanied by his fingers gently working on my clit has me relaxing enough to accept him all the way, the moan he lets out when buried to the hilt makes me almost come again there and then. He holds himself still until the uncomfortableness turns into burning hot want and need and I’m cautiously rolling my hips against him, his gray eyes flying open to meet mine with a hungry look in them. He draws me into a hot and heavy kiss as he pulls out so just the tip is still in before he slides back in, filling me up and drawing whimpers and gasps from me. 

His other hands finds mine, holding both my hands either side of my head as my legs wrap around his hips to pull him in even further as he begins to gently rock his hips against mine. His body is pressed flush against mine as he captures my lips in such a gentle yet hot kiss, both of us gasping and moaning into the others mouth as he sets a slow and sensual pace. The coarse curls of his v-line catching my clit in such a way that has my legs tightening around him and my back arches as my hips roll to meet his slow thrusts. 

I can feel every bump and ridge against my walls with every pull out and his tip presses deliciously into that spongey spot every time he bottoms out. Low and guttural sounds rumble in his chest as our bodies shine with a thin layer of sweat, his tousled hair sticking to his forehead, pale skin flushing as he makes love to me. The sound of our panted breaths and soft whimpers and whines drowns out the sounds of the house staring and settling and all I can smell is Greyson, the earthy musk and woodsmoke clinging to him even after the shower I know he had earlier. It all adds to the slowly building tightness in my stomach and I’m moving my hips down to meet his, my back arching when he hits that sweet spot that has me seeing stars. 

“Grey… G-Grey…” I’m whining and his teeth are grazing my chin, adding to the pleasure as it feels like every fibre in my body is on fire, that coil tightening almost painfully as he drags against my g-spot with every thrust until I’m tensing up and my eyes roll back into my head. His hops begin snapping against mine, face buries in my neck and hands tightening on my hips where they’ve settled back to hold me in place as I ride out my high, thighs trembling, heels pressing into his back, nails digging half-moons into his shoulders and tugging almost painfully at his fluffy hair. 

“W-where-“ He’s gasping out a moan, his beginning to stutter and dick twitching against my walls, “Where can I-“ 

I’m cutting him off by wrapping my legs tighter around his hips, drawing him even deeper than either of us thought possible and that’s all it takes for Greyson to follow my climax. He pants against my neck, hips stuttering as he thrusts a few more times before he’s filling me up, teeth sinking into skin to muffle his moan before he’s collapsing on top of me and I’m untangling one hand from his to bring it to his hair. 

“I’m in love with you too.” I speak it so quietly I’m not sure he hearts it as he presses soft and loving kisses to my neck, his hips still moving in gentle circles of overstimulation against mine but then he’s pulling back enough to lean on his elbows over me, a beautiful smile gracing his face. 

“You’re mine darling.” He murmurs, voice low and rich and it sends a thrill though me as he slips out, standing to grab a bowl and clean us, a loving grin breaks out on his face. He’s grinning the while time he’s wiping away the mess sliding down my legs as I’m too spent and tired to move. He helps me into a pair of his boxers and a shirt of his that is baggy. My cheeks burn with an intense blush as Greyson stands there, his eyes locked on me with unwavering admiration. It's an intensity that sends a thrill down my spine, yet it also makes me feel exposed and vulnerable. The overwhelming attention becomes too much to bear, and I have to turn my body away, my embarrassment causing me to hide my face. 

With a tenderness that speaks of deep affection, Greyson climbs into the bed hind me. He moves with grace and strength that makes me feel safe and cherished. Gently, he rolls me over to face him, his touch as soothing as a whispered promise. His fingers caress my cheek, brushing my hair from my face, and in the soft silvery light, his gaze is a mixture of love and admiration. 

“You are so beautiful.” He reassures me, his voice low and filled with a depth of feeling that matches the emotions reflected in his eyes, “There's no need to hide. You are perfect just the way you are.” 

In his arms, under the embrace of the silvery glow, I feel a warmth that goes beyond physical desire. It’s the warmth of acceptance, of love, and the unbreakable bond we share. In this moment, we are free to be our true selves, shedding the masks we wear in the world outside. Our connection, marked by trust and affection, becomes more profound than ever, and I’m overwhelmed by a sense of belonging that has been a long time coming. 

“Can we tell the others?” I ask quietly, burying my face in his chest, feeling a warm rumble come from him. 

“I think we already did.” 

                           ┈ ✁✃✁✃✁✃✁✃✁ ┈

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[tunashei]

First Impressions of Animorphs!

I'm listening to the Animorphs series while I work, through Animorphs Aloud - a fan made reading of the series. Here are my first impressions/random thoughts about them! Spoilers below if you haven't read them.

Book 12.5: The Andalite Chronicles (Part 2)

Oh no...the second they mentioned that Alloran and Arbron were last seen as Taxxons but it'd been over the two hour morph limit...one of them is gonna be stuck as a Taxxon, aren't they?

Sensible plan Elfangor, good choices

Arbron definitely ate that guy. Also this voice acting is very good, Arbron sounds gloomy and a little hysterical

Man I wish human larval forms could be set to work cleaning and doing menial chores, instead of just lying there and screaming. And then they'd cocoon and transform into fully functional adults instead of going through the awkward teenager stage

Ah fuck...totally called it. Arbron is a Taxxon forever now. That SUCKS man, I quite liked him. At least Tobias is stuck as something pretty cool, being a Taxxon seems like hell

As someone who is completely incapable of estimating speeds, three thousand miles per hour sounds totally believable

Arbron is so cool. Under the most intense pressure, life irrevocably changed for the worse, in a unfamiliar body and he STILL nails the shot. Three times

Oh yeah they could totally use the Time Matrix to fix Arbron

Elfangor please do not cut off your friends limbs he can no longer get those back by demorphing (what is it with Andalites and severing limbs??)

Hadn't considered before that if Andalites eat with their feet they must also taste with their feet. It's a good thing Ax has never been in andalite form walking around a typical human city...though he did eat cigarettes once so maybe he'd like it

Do andalite eyestalks have eyelids?

Elfangor you have the most powerful weapon in the universe on a hostile planet, your commander is missing, your friend is missing presumed dead, your alien crush is kidnapped and in peril, and any moment the Yeerks could find your crashed ship. Why are you reading a picture book

Oh my god is he going to drive the car

HELL FUCKIN YEAH ANDALITE DRIVING A MUSTANG

Oh ok Arbron can regrow limbs. Convenient. I'm glad he's found a purpose too, having an Andalite in control of a bunch of Taxxons could be pretty powerful

Alloran is back! I didn't think he'd vanish completely but him appearing as a Hork-Bajir genuinely surprised me

Woooow...I mean kind to give him the warrior title, Arbron totally deserves it, but *casualty of war?* That's harsh. I wonder how often this happens, Andalites getting trapped in morph while fighting in the war and then being discarded because accommodating them would be inconvenient. Or because having them be visible in society might make their military look bad.

Alloran what is the matter with you the MOST POWERFUL WEAPON IN THE UNIVERSE is just lying unattended in some desert and you're hung up on these insignificant Yeerks whose deaths would barely make a dent in the war. You have issues man

Bye bye visser three/sub visser seven I'm sure that was definitely you that fell out of the ship you're not currently in Chapmans head

War crimes! Woooooo!

Well, at least he realised before he got ambushed? And got the upper hand with some good shooting. Too bad you left Alloran to be infested. I was hoping we'd get to find out how Visser Three got his Andalite so pleased we got to see that

Ahaha this is devious I love it. Make him run. Make him DANCE. Those Hork-Bajir must have shit themselves when they realised they were shooting at their own visser

'You up for a little genocide, Elfangor?' Top 10 Animorphs Quotes

These living asteroids are weird, struggling to visualise them. Set em on the Yeerks

FUCKIN CHAPMAN. Should have put him in a cupboard or something. Deserved that nut shot

Dramatic end to this part! Intense action

[hibernationsuit-remade]

for ariel:

Are there any certain scents, sounds, or textures that you like? What about ones that you dislike?

What are a few things (or one thing) you want to do before you die? Why?

for tobias & klara too (individually):

Are you happy in your own skin? If you could change something about yourself, would you, and what would it be?

THANK YOUUUU!!!! putting ariel's second question, toby & klara under the cut so this won't be too long abbdbfbfkf

in character ask game

Ariel:

Are there any certain scents, sounds, or textures that you like? What about ones that you dislike?

"I love satin, something about it makes sleeping much easier. It feels less warm and that's usually what I need."

"And, oh! I recently had a nice lunch with someone who had one of the most interesting perfumes I've ever smelled. She said it's called "Mock Apple Dream", but instead of mock apples they use actual Earth apple scent, can you believe? A mix of apple, cinnamon, and some other things. Reminded me of a pastry my mother used to make, some kind of a mix of cinnamon buns and a mock apple pie. Really brought back some memories."

"I rarely ever dislike someone, but I'd definitely mention the sound of those datapads people keep carrying around. The buttons! Computer keyboards sound much more pleasant, but this one is the worst thing I've ever heard! Reminds me of someone knocking on a metal wall - imagine what it's like to try and enjoy your free time and someone keeps pushing on those buttons next to you."

What are a few things (or one thing) you want to do before you die? Why?

"A friend of mine dropped their pocket watch into a lake many years ago while we were escaping from some guards in the middle of the night. What a day it was! We were laughing so hard at that one guard jumping around the shore yelling at us that we almost fell into the water, too. And all of this was for one box of whiskey. But man, it did taste great. The watch is probably broken, dirty, but I still want to find it one day. That person was...important, and I'd like to keep something to remember them by."

Are you happy in your own skin? If you could change something about yourself, would you, and what would it be?

Tobias:

"There are many things I don't really enjoy that much, but would I change anything? No, I don't think so. Sometimes, when things get hard, I may have thoughts like that, but every time I just, well, realize that I am who I am because of everything what has happened and because of who I am. And by changing something, the actual me would disappear and instead there'd only be a polished copy. That sounds even worse than living with my own problems."

Klara:

"That's a really good question, thank you! I would say I'm happy, overall, but there are some things that I'd love to change. Maybe I'd love to be more brave with dressing up the way I want when there are strict dresscodes, always love to fuck with those but lately I've been a bit too afraid to do so. I know some could see this as a really unnecessary thing, but I just love to wear something that has really me-vibes!"

[slashyrogue]

AU-gust Day 2: Immortals

He doesn’t know why he’s nervous. 

Will stands outside the door trying to calm down his fast-beating heart, reciting the same shit by rote he has for decades now, and tells himself he’s going to make it through just fine. He’s never botched one of these check-ins, not ever, and yet every single time he worries this will be the one that gets him in trouble. 

The guard opens the door, the cut of his dark brown suit the same as all the others outside of every door in this long never-ending hallway. 

“You can come in now.” 

His robotic voice makes Will even more nervous, and he steps inside taking a deep breath only to look up sharply. 

“Oh.” 

Will has been to these meetings every single month for nearly eighty years, and yet not once in the last twenty has he seen the one face he thought he never would again. He blinks back tears as he walks forward, taking in the ten seated immortal monsters who every year go through hundreds of others like him to be sure they’re safe to live among the humans. Their faces are all familiar, all safe, save for one. 

Hannibal Lecter. 

The vampire who left him in the night two decades ago and never once let Will know why. 

The creature who makes him ache, whose scent he wants to drown in, and who rejected him after only one night together. 

One magical, special night. 

The woman in the middle of the council holds up Will’s file, Bedelia DuMaurier, a vampire like Hannibal himself, and reads with a smile. 

“Will Graham, werewolf, works in the FBI solving…” she looks up, “Murders? Are you a corpse sniffing hound then?” 

Will grits his teeth. 

“No, ma’am,” he says, not looking at Hannibal though he can feel the vampire’s eyes on him, “I…I get the whole of it through scent but I…I can…” 

“He can see the killers,” Hannibal finishes, making Will bite back a moan at the sound of his voice, “Can’t you, Mister Graham?” 

Will tries to hold in his tears as turns to look at him. “Yes, Sir.” 

Hannibal’s smile fades as they look at each other. 

“Do you…live alone, Mister Graham?” 

“Yes,” he says, shaking now, “I…I don’t have a mate.” 

“Odd,” Abel Gideon remarks, his voice almost a cough which is not uncommon for ghouls, “For a werewolf to not have a pack.” 

“I have dogs,” he says, trying not to glare, “I…I don’t need a mate. I’m perfectly fine on my own…Sir.” 

“Will,” Hannibal says, his voice like honey in Will’s ears, “Have you…not…a companion? No one to warm your bed at night or…” 

Will cannot hold in his tears as he looks at him and Bedelia scoffs. 

“I see the puppy is angry,” she says, “You’re not usually so skittish, Mister Graham. Do you have something to hide?” 

“No, I…” 

“You’re crying,” she taunts, “Any werewolf in tears is obviously hiding something underneath his puppy dog exterior. I think perhaps he…” 

“NO!” Hannibal growls, making everyone look at him. 

Bedelia stares at Hannibal angrily as Will feels like he’ll shift any second. 

“Are you questioning the council’s decisions, Mr. Lecter? This is your first year as a member and I’d hate to have you dissolved so soon on your first day. You’ve been exemplary so far,” she looks at Will, “Or is there something about this one? Do you like puppies?” 

Hannibal growls. “He is no puppy, Ms. DuMaurier, and you are out of line. This is not his first time, and you know he’s safe. Let him through.” 

“I think perhaps…’ 

“SHUT UP MRS. KOMEDA!” Hannibal yells, “OR I WILL SHUT YOUR MOUTH FOR YOU!” 

His eyes are red, angry, and Will can smell his scent so strong his cock is heavy between his legs. He falls to the floor, growling, and several things happen at once. Two other werewolves on the council get up, growling, and start to argue with Bedelia, Tobias Budge and Randall Tier, while Will hears a crash to the floor just as he feels his clothes ripping. 

And a second later Hannibal has hold of him. 

“Breathe, Will,” he whispers, his scent making Will dizzy, “Breathe for me.” 

Will’s vision is yellow, and yet he sees Hannibal so clearly, he whimpers. 

“I hate you so much.” 

A dark tear falls out of Hannibal’s eye, and he realizes that vampires cry blood. 

Why is Hannibal crying? 

“I know, Mylimasis,” Hannibal whispers, “I know, but…you cannot shift here. Breathe.” 

Will breathes in and out, calming, and Hannibal nuzzles his cheeks making him purr as his body relaxes. 

“HANNIBAL EXPLAIN YOURSELF!” Bedelia yells. 

Will’s eyes are heavy as he hears Hannibal growl. 

“He is mine,” he says, “And no one will throw him down with the discards. If you do not trust him among the humans, then he’s remanded to my care as of right now.” 

Will’s confusion makes him sigh. “What? You…” 

“You can’t make that choice, Hannibal, you…” 

“If you do not, I will kill every single person in this room. You know what I can do.” 

Everyone freezes. 

“You’re banned from this council,” Bedelia says, her voice shaking, “And…I never want to see that mongrel puppy again. He’s your problem now.” 

Will purrs as Hannibal pulls him up, nuzzling his neck. “Done.” 

He barely has time to take in his fate as Hannibal lifts him, confusing him even more, and he’s carried through the exit like a ragdoll. 

“What..what did…how…” 

“Sleep, Will. Just sleep.” 

The rest of Will’s worries fade away, and yet he has no idea of his new ones. 

Not that it matters when he feels so good.

[grimmbitty]

Handmade DC intro title card for a Shazam film that I made up!!⚡️

This post is kinda interesting because I have not tried my hand at video editing in a while. I’m hoping to get one of my friends to help me install photoshop on my computer so I can remake this sequence with actual 3D assets. But for now? They’re hand drawn in procreate.

I thought I would share some behind the scenes of how I made this for anyone who might be interested in doing something similar! :D

[ Behind the Scenes Info Below ⬇️ ]

Okay so I decided to make this intro as kinda like a “ooh what if I made my own Shazam film? How would I do the opening DC title? I would want it to be like a dark and spooky night, then have the camera be panning down through the clouds. Then I could easily transition into the opening scene because that takes place during a dark and stormy night. OOoOoO.”

But first, in order to do that I had to make modifications to the DC logo. I didn’t want to use any premade 3D assets they had; I wanted to make my own. However, I don’t currently have photoshop, so I had to improvise and make a 2D logo kinda look 3D with some extra layers and shading tricks. I did this in procreate, but any art app will do really. Just keep your preferred perspective in mind.

Then after I was done with making sure my perspective was all good and in check I then proceeded to decorate the hell out of the logo with a bunch of clipping masks lol. I just slapped a bunch of different things on there. Some lense flares, some random brushes, some multiply layers, whatever. I didn’t really have a plan in mind when I did this I just kinda went with the vibes.

Then after that I made another file where I just worked on the little sparkle effect that I added in. For the sparkle effect I just picked like a default brush in procreate that looked pretty and then animated it to do a little slide across the letter “D”.

Next, I did some work on the backgrounds. I made sure to have really “tall” files so that way I could make them slide down in my video editor. This kinda gives that vibe that we are descending through the clouds, hopefully towards an establishing shot, for our opening scene, for our fake movie.

I made two parts for this. One animated background where I changed to opacity of the backlight for each frame to kinda give the illusion that lightning was peaking through the clouds. The second was just some clouds that I was gonna overlay on top of the DC logo, so it just felt more like everything was in the scene together.

I would provide video examples of this, but tumblr only allows me to upload one video per post. And if you’re wondering what brushes I used to this? I just googled “Procreate free cloud brushes” and downloaded the top result.

The ones I’m using are made by an artist named DI, and I got them off of gumroad. Info for their socials provided in the third image below.

And then once I had all of those assets together I just edited them all together in a program called HitFilm Express. I used to like it a lot since it’s free, and I used to use it to edit YouTube videos. That was back when I used to upload my Minecraft videos with my friends online lol. However, recently HitFilm has put a lot of features I used to use behind a paywall so :/. I’m probably going to look for alternatives sometime soon.

Normally I don’t mind being restricted in some sense for a free program, but they disabled the ability to fade clips in and out, and I think that’s a vital tool. It’s a shame to see it locked behind a paywall because I used it in pretty much all my projects.

And lastly the audio! I just found free to use clips of rain sounds, thunder claps, and then some ambient music. The track you can hear in this short clip is the intro to the song Redeye - Green House (1994). The artist is also known as Tobias Beldermann if any of you guys were curious where I got that from.

Buttttt yeah! That’s about all I have for showing you guys how I made my little 5 second clip. I’m not really one who’s qualified to make “tutorials” in any sense, because most of what I post online is just me dicking around and having fun, so I don’t want to be super serious. But, I also like showing my process just so if anyone out there is maybe interested in doing something similar, well then they have some ideas for where to start.

Anyways, if you guys want to read my first couple scenes for my Shazam story Shazam:City of Brotherly Love I’m going to link it here.

It’s still a work in progress, and if I end up doing any edits I’m just going to make them to the the post itself. Just because it’s not really worth it to me, posting almost identical chapters/scenes over, and over again lol.

Okiii byyeee!! I hope you enjoyed!! ~✨

[pet-genius]

A complex and many-layered thing

But Harry’s anger at Snape continued to pound through his veins like venom. Let go of his anger? He could as easily detach his legs. . . .

This is the first Occlumency lesson. Harry is right, of course. Feelings don’t go away because you want them to. To let go of them when they’ve not been addressed or validated can be as hard as detaching a leg. And yet, it’s what Dumbledore asked Snape to do, and it’s what Snape had to do to survive the first war as Dumbledore’s spy. You have to ask yourself… how?

Trapped animals chew off their own legs to escape. It’s a sacrifice they make to survive.

If there’s one thing in a fic that turns me off it, it’s the idea that Occlumency shields are a thing, that Severus was so gifted at it because he’s got some power like Second Sight or being a metamorphagus. I always preferred to think of Occlumency and Legilimency as skills that can be learned, even if some have more aptitude for it than others.

Severus entered Hogwarts with the kind of life experience that primed him for developing these skills, and left it with even more. Occlumency is magical dissociation, a post-traumatic coping mechanism, and Severus has C/PTSD. More under the cut; tw: just general angst.

To survive, he would have had to develop a knack for telling how explosive and unpredictable people feel. Over his life, he faced at least two egregious examples of what Pete Walker, author of “Complex PTSD” calls “the Charming Bully”.

Especially devolved fight types can become sociopathic. Sociopathy can range along a continuum that stretches from corrupt politician to vicious criminal. A particularly nasty sociopath, who I call the charming bully, probably falls somewhere around the middle of this continuum. The charming bully behaves in a friendly manner some of the time. He can even occasionally listen and be helpful in small amounts, but he still uses his contempt to overpower and control others. This type typically relies on scapegoats for the dumping of his vitriol. These unfortunate scapegoats are typically weaker than him. […] He generally spares his favorites from this behavior, unless they get out of line. If the charming bully is charismatic enough, those close to him will often fail to register the unconscionable meanness of his scapegoating. The bully’s favorites often slip into denial, relieved that they are not the target. Especially charismatic bullies may even be admired and seen as great.

These would be James Potter and Tom Riddle, who are distantly related, I might add. Harry inherited the tendency to default to the fight response, but since he grew up the scapegoat and not the golden child, he never becomes quite as appalling, and after all, a fight response is normal when they are after you. Even so, Harry, who has both James and Voldemort inside him, triggers Severus to no end. It’s not a coincidence that the memories Harry sees when he is with him are largely horrible, and vice versa. There had to be happy or at least neutral or even boring moments, but these two detest each other, and they know they detest each other. Negative emotions and associated memories are so close to the surface they can’t be contained. This is the purpose of the Pensieve in this context - to contain the emotions. Since Severus knew what was in there when he pulled Harry out, my theory is that you don’t suddenly forget the memories you placed there, but rather you make them less fraught with emotions.

“Get up!” said Snape sharply. “Get up! You are not trying, you are making no effort, you are allowing me access to memories you fear, handing me weapons!”

Harry stood up again, his heart thumping wildly as though he had really just seen Cedric dead in the graveyard. Snape looked paler than usual, and angrier, though not nearly as angry as Harry was. “I — am — making — an — effort,” he said through clenched teeth.

“I told you to empty yourself of emotion!”

“Yeah? Well, I’m finding that hard at the moment,” Harry snarled.

“Then you will find yourself easy prey for the Dark Lord!” said Snape savagely. “Fools who wear their hearts proudly on their sleeves, who cannot control their emotions, who wallow in sad memories and allow themselves to be provoked this easily — weak people, in other words — they stand no chance against his powers! He will penetrate your mind with absurd ease, Potter!”

A lot to unpack here.

“Memories you fear,” “weapons”, “easy prey”.

Fearing your own memories, viewing your own lived experiences as weapons to be used against you, being easy prey… Severus could not be speaking louder of himself here. He is the one whose mind had been penetrated with absurd ease, he is the one who handed weapons to Voldemort, and he is the one who had to do the psychological equivalent of detaching his own leg – again and again – to survive.

I’ll argue that Severus developed a fawn response and a flight response, as fighting had never really worked out for him if it was possible at all. He had at least two more people I’d describe as bullies in his life, Tobias and Lucius.

Again from Pete Walker:

These [fawn] response patterns are so deeply set in the psyche, that as adults, many codependents automatically respond to threat like dogs, symbolically rolling over on their backs, wagging their tails, hoping for a little mercy and an occasional scrap. Webster’s second entry for fawn is: “to show friendliness by licking hands, wagging its tail, etc.: said of a dog.” I find it tragic that some codependents are as loyal as dogs to even the worst “masters”.

Remember what Sirius called him? Lucius’s lapdog. Bellatrix called him Dumbledore’s pet, Dumbledore said he dangles on Voldemort’s arm, the narrative compares Snape to a rabbit in SWM and Harry compares the Half Blood Prince to a beloved pet who had gone feral (yes, this does mean a lot to me on a personal level, yes my username is not a coincidence).

His unconscious fawn response might have been his undoing, drawn as he was to figures like Lucius and Voldemort. As an adult, I think he utilized the skills he had developed to survive in order to stitch these people up, and involuntary dissociation and fawning became Occlumency, which to me, is his signature magic. Harry needed only to banish Voldemort from his mind; Severus could not settle for this. He had to give Voldemort something, and knowing how to fawn meant knowing what to give him and how to draw himself in such a light that Voldemort would believe it. We see how he wanted to be seen by the Death Eaters: a self-serving coward who sought to hide behind Dumbledore’s apron, playing his pet. But that’s Pettigrew, not Snape. Imagine the self-immolation, the self-violation, it must have taken to convince everyone that you’re an ersatz Wormtail! Snape is a man and a prince, and the text recognizes this as Harry calls him, in the end, Dumbledore’s man, the bravest man, and as that chapter is called “The Prince’s Tale”. Voldemort thought Snape was nothing more than a “good and faithful servant,” and that his last words were “My Lord”.

But Severus had an unequaled gift for Occlumency, specifically against Voldemort, because Voldemort could not legilimens what he couldn’t feel; and he couldn’t feel love, grief, guilt, and remorse. This was Severus’s secret weapon, which would not have worked against Harry - who can feel these things, and who is also Lily’s son. I can prove it. The first time Harry gets the hang of Occlumency is after Dobby dies:

His scar burned, but he was master of the pain; he felt it, yet was apart from it. He had learned control at last, learned to shut his mind to Voldemort, the very thing Dumbledore had wanted him to learn from Snape. Just as Voldemort had not been able to possess Harry while Harry was consumed with grief for Sirius, so his thoughts could not penetrate Harry now, while he mourned Dobby. Grief, it seemed, drove Voldemort out . . . though Dumbledore, of course, would have said that it was love. . . .

Harry learned to dissociate, though fortunately in a healthier way than many of us ever get to.

Of course, Snape was a good and faithful servant… to Dumbledore, which brings us to the flight response. The chapter wherein he escapes after killing Dumbledore is called “Flight of the Prince”. He should be fighting, he had just proven that he can cast a killing curse, and yet he flees. He can literally fly, in fact: He, Lily, and Voldemort are the only ones we see pulling this off.

As a child, we see this too: He copes with his home situation by reminding himself “it won’t be long and I’ll be gone.” He is thrilled when he imagines Hogwarts, his escape; he follows Lily out of the carriage instead of confronting James and Sirius head-on (which might have saved them all a lot of pain eventually). But this doesn’t work out, we see that in terrifying detail. The next attempt at an escape is joining the Death Eaters, but this too doesn’t work out.

He can’t flee anymore.

“Severus, you cannot pretend this isn’t happening!” Karkaroff’s voice sounded anxious and hushed, as though keen not to be overheard. “It’s been getting clearer and clearer for months. I am becoming seriously concerned, I can’t deny it —”

“Then flee,” said Snape’s voice curtly. “Flee — I will make your excuses. I, however, am remaining at Hogwarts.”

Shortly thereafter:

“Severus,” said Dumbledore, turning to Snape, “you know what I must ask you to do. If you are ready . . . if you are prepared . . .”

“I am,” said Snape.

He looked slightly paler than usual, and his cold, black eyes glittered strangely.

He was ready, and he was prepared. He didn’t fly; he walked toward what might well have been his end with open eyes, armed only with the strength of his mind. Before Voldemort killed him, he looked pale, again, and terrified.

“I sought a third wand, Severus. The Elder Wand, the Wand of Destiny, the Deathstick. I took it from its previous master. I took it from the grave of Albus Dumbledore.”

And now Snape looked at Voldemort, and Snape’s face was like a death mask. It was marble white and so still that when he spoke, it was a shock to see that anyone lived behind the blank eyes.

I ask myself if this was the moment he realized he had been betrayed, that by giving Dumbledore a painless death he had secured his own. Maybe he wasn’t pale because he was scared; maybe he was pale because he was shocked. He was at his absolute limit, Occluding with all his might when he could have easily saved himself. The dam is about to break. All the memories he feared, all the weapons, the entire content of his heart is about to spill through - literally.

He fawned for Voldemort, the worst of all possible masters, but in the end, he was Voldemort’s undoing. All the ways in which he was weak and powerless against Tobias, James, Lucius, et al., proved to be part of goodness and source of his power. It doesn’t surprise me in the least that Snape is so loved. I’ve never actually seen such love for any other fictional character. He represents a kind of courage that many of us need to get by, lest we simply become evil or give the fuck up (“I wish I was dead”). A kind of courage rarely celebrated. The more time I’ve spent in the fandom in general and in the Snapedom in particular, the more I am convinced of this.

[guaxinimraccoon]

jesus christ why-

oh mY DEAR GOD-

FIRST OF ALL I'm SO sorry for taking so damn long to answer those, I've been really really busy and I'm very sorry, I'm doing my best to answer everybody ; o ;

BUT FINALLY let's talk about our big last Euphoria reveal (about four months ago but ok-), where I showed you guys that Alex is Brad's father and Elisa is Toby's mom.

"BUT GUAX WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK??? HOW?? WHEN??? WHERE??"

SHUSH , CALM YOUR TITS DOWN and let me explain:

Ok, so I'll be putting some links here and there because yes, Alex and Elisa's story is very, VERY connected to Brad and Toby's. 

And get ready for a veeeeeeeeeeeeery long post. You were warned.

As you all already know, Alex and Elisa had a troublesome meeting, but eventually got closer to each other, they fell in love yadda yadda yadda BUT their will to get closer to each other, in other words, their relationship brought HUGE consequences.

Yes, they did manage to build a healthy relationship, they were happy, they were fine.

But they were also adults, adults that wanted something serious and concrete, they couldn't spend the rest of their lives as forbbiden lovers.

So Elisa did something literally illegal. She did a potion that was forbidden by the Colony authorities - a shrunken potion - to get closer to Alex.

Those potions were never developed, they're rustic and really antique, so they could do more harm than good or not work at all.

But Alex didn't care, he took the risk and drank the potion to get closer to his girl, the woman that was the love of his life.

The effect of the potion is temporary, so Alex would drink them from time to time whenever he had the opportunity to visit the Colony, spend some time with Elisa and, of course, be a part of her life.

He wasn't just trying to "be like her", he was also trying to be a part of her home. He made friends with her friends, he met her family, he met new imps, new fairies, all of it under his "imp disguise". He even fought for the Colony at it's war times (that is lasting till the current story time). He EVEN presented himself with a more “impish name” - Turk - to make sure people wouldn’t suspect anything.

Of course, people eventually started to ask why didn’t he live in the Colony with Elisa, why did he only showed up from time to time. Alex and Elisa lied, obviously, they told everyone that Alex belonged to a secluded imp tribe that lived walking around the forest as nomads, which made sense since those types of imp communities do exist.

ANYWAY THE POINT IS Alex grew affectioned of those people and with their lifestyle. He started to feel like he was one of them. 

And, of course, he was now closer than he ever was to Elisa.

Since they were different species, they never worried about having kids. I’ve never said this before but Alex is a doctor, he knows about this stuff, so he always made sure to reassure Elisa that "they were their own condon" and, as sad as it may sound, they couldn't have kids.

... Or so Alex thought.

You know how tigers and lions can have offspring together? Yeah, it's the same thing.

It's very hard to happen, but they spent YEARS together if you know what I mean so yeah

That's how Alex and Elisa gave birth to their first child: Tobias, the only one of a specie that is a mix between human and imp.

His parents were really worried at first, afterall, they new NOTHING about Toby's condition. They didn't know if he was going to grow as large as a human or if he'd assume imp proportions forever. After some research with his son's blood, Alex found out that Toby was indeed half human and half imp, but he was predominantly physically an imp. That means his biological features are, mostly, imp like: he'd hardly grow as large as a human through his life's course and could live as a normal imp in the Colony. The fact that he showed talent for magic (once he was old enough to do so) and was able to do it just like any other imp in the Colony also made things easier.

Elisa and Alex chose to raise Toby in the Colony, they believed it’d be healthier and safer for him (especially after some events that I’ll be talking about in other posts), although it hurt Alex to pretend that he was an imp to his son and that he couldn’t see him everyday. 

Even if they couldn’t see each other everyday, Alex and Toby were very close. Toby loved his daddy very much and was very attached to him.

After five years after Toby was born, Elisa got pregnant again and gave birth to their second child: Bernardo (that’d eventually be nicknamed as “Brad”), one of the two only beings of the specie Alex and Elisa accidently created together.

For preucation, Alex took a bit of Brad’s blood and made some research, just like he did to Toby.

And what he found out wasn’t exactly... relieving.

Brad, just like Toby, was half human and half imp, but he had expressed mostly human features in his physical body. He was as small as a baby imp now, but it was a matter of time until he started to grow very VERY large.

Unlike Toby, Brad couldn’t live as an imp in the Colony and things got very complicated for them.

Alex wanted to leave. He told Elisa the Colony’s community would NEVER accept their youngest, they would never accept Alex and probably wouldn’t accept Toby either. They had to leave that place before they couldn’t hide the truth anymore, even if it cost revealing Toby, a five year old child, that most of his life was a lie.

But Elisa was hesitant. She didn’t want to leave her home, her parents, her friends. She knew Alex was right, they couldn’t stand that play for too long, but how to leave everything she had built behind? How to leave everything she knew as home behind? It wasn’t that easy.

Until something very bad happened.

Remember I said Alex made a few friends in the Colony? So, one of them was Stefan, a experienced fairy soldier that had known Elisa for as long as she was alive. He was pretty much her best friend (even if he was old enough to be her father) and now he was also great friends with Alex.

Stefan is important here. He has a very tragic backstory involving humans. He lost pretty much everything to them: his whole family and his wings, something that meant more than just flying to him.

So, as expected, he hates humans and truly believes that they are nothing more than monsters that try to manipulate you and to get advantage from imp’s and fairy’s magic. 

After some years, he started to get very suspicious over Alex. Some things weren’t making any sense anymore and that “nomad imp community” was starting to sound way more like an excuse than the actual truth. He simply didn’t understand what was stopping him to live with Elisa and his sons for once.

So he did some investigation. One day, he followed Alex (that he knew as Turk) out of the Colony, in one of the days he had only come to visit his family. Alex had said earlier that he had to “go back to his own society”. Yeah, right. Stefan was hiding the whole time and followed Alex till a good distane from the Colony’s limits. 

And he didn’t get exaclty happy to see his best friend growing impossibly huge out of nowhere.

Stefan now knew the truth: Alex was pretending to be an imp using shrinking potions. He didn’t belong to any nomad imp group, he was a human that lived in his own house and was coming to the Colony to play family with them.

Of course, he didn’t only felt betrayed, but pissed as fuck. Stefan didn’t waste any time: as soon as Alex came back to the Colony he confronted him. Alex tried to explain himself, but they only argued and ended up having a pretty bad fight.

In anger, Stefan didn’t want to hear no more explanations, so he told some of the Colony’s high authorities about Alex’s lies and that they had to do something about it. 

The Colony’s Council decided to call Elisa and solve things between imps and fairies only. But they showed her no mercy.

They basically gave her two options: or she’d prove her loyalty to the Colony and would kill her husband and her human son, or the Colony would sentence all of them to death penalty, including Toby and Brad, children that they claimed should have never been born. 

Elisa was in shatters. She didn’t know what to do. She couldn’t kill the man she loved and her baby child, she just couldn’t. She was about to accept the second option, rathering die with her family than killing them, but Stefan decided to help her out.

He wasn’t expecting the Council to be so cruel and he started to regret his decisions the moment he saw how Elisa was worried about her family and how much she loved them, even if they were human. He hated Alex and Brad, but seeing Elisa in excruciating pain over them was impossible for him, so he made up a plan with her to save everybody.

It cost Elisa to trust Stefan, he had told their secrets to the worst people possible, but she had no option aside from accepting his help and following his plan.

The plan was simple: Elisa would tell the Council she’d kill Alex and Brad and would tell Alex that she had changed her mind and that they should leave the Colony as soon as possible now that Stefan knew the truth.

Alex believed her and, after Stefan’s confirmation, so the Council did. The next step was to take Alex and Brad to the Colony’s limits, pretending they were about to leave. 

Then it happened.

Elisa made, with Stefan’s help, a huge barrier on the Colony’s frontier that didn’t allowed humans to cross it. It was basically a security method that they never thought it’d be necessary.

But now it was and it wasn’t meant to protect the ones inside the Colony...

Of course, Alex didn’t understand SHIT.

He spent MONTHS returning to the Colony in his shrinking form, trying to find a way to cross the barrier and to get Toby back. 

Or to talk to Elisa.

Or to understand.

Or anything.

He just wanted his family.

Eventually, his potions ended and he was left to raise Brad on his own and to never see his wife and oldest son again.

Since then, he hates Elisa. Or at least thinks he does. He’s just deeply mad at her, he doesn’t understand why she left them. 

He did everything for her. Denyed his own race, submitted himself to the dangerous effects of a extremely nocive potion which he faces the consequences till this day, did his fucking best to be the best father and husband his family could have-

All this love, all this effort, all this sweat and blood

Wasted.

It took years for him to fully recover. Aside from the health problems the abusive use of the shrinking potions brought, he also became alcohoolic. Because he wasn’t mentally estable enough, neither to take care of himself and of his very very small son, he went to live in his parents house. His family knew about Elisa and the children they had together, his folks actually liked her a lot so it saddened them as well that she simply abandoned Alex and Brad and that they would never see Toby again.

His family didn’t had to worry about Brad’s very little size for too long though, before he was one year old he had already reached his human size.

Anyway, Alex’s family gave him a huge help until he was healthy enough to take care of Brad, the only one left from the family he built.

Back to Elisa, she didn’t told Alex her plan because she KNEW he wouldn’t want to do it. She simply knew Alex would be too stubborn. He’d have wanted to try to escape or to face the Council. Both alternatives would get them all killed.

Toby didn’t understand why his mother did what she did. He was forced to go back home with her, screaming the whole time, saying that they left his father and brother behind while Elisa was crying endelessly.

Stefan came to them eventually and calmed Toby down. His heart broke when he saw Elisa. She was... not okay.

Unfortunately, he didn’t have time to assist her. He immediatly went to a representent of the Council and took them to Elisa and to the Colony’s frontier to prove that she had done it and did even more than she was suppose to. Of course, not without consequences to her sanity, she had just killed her husband and baby, of course she was in pain.

Nevertheless, the Council confirmed Elisa had done her part and left to leave her alone with the child they let live.

After that, Toby spent weeks returning to that spot of the frontier to look for his dad and brother. No sucess.

As time went by, he eventually forgot about Brad, he was very young when they tore apart and Elisa and Stefan never talked about him nor Alex. All he can remember is that there was a baby in the middle of that mess, but he can’t relate to it.

He kept the memories of his father though, who was closer to him, and till this day he believes he’s alive somewhere and that he can be found. But he has no idea he’s a human and has no idea of his own true nature.

Elisa and Alex miss their respective sons deeply and think about them everyday. They also miss each other very much and the first months after the incident were terribly agonizing for the both of them.

They kept going for the child that had remained for the both of them and raised them apart from each other. Alex never told Brad what happened and so Elisa did to Toby. Like that, none of the brothers knew about the existence of each other.

Until the day Toby was sent, coincidentally, to his “little” brother’s house

And none of them has no idea of this fucking long backstory I just spent four months writing :)

enjoy

[spoopy-but-safe]

You wake up feeling off.

You're dizzy.

Your throat is raw.

Your head is pounding.

You struggle to make yourself sit up in bed, having to slowly haul your body up step by step. Raise your head, push yourself up onto your elbow, push yourself up with your arms...

And then, you freeze at the sensation of weight shifting in your stomach.

"What..?" You mutter under your breath. You've never felt anything like it in your life.

You wait a moment for something else to happen. One beat, two beats, three. Nothing.

But, just as you decide you imagined it...

"You sure slept in." A voice says.

Your instinct to look around the room to find who's speaking is overridden by the fact that you can tell the voice is coming from inside you.

You want to say something, anything, but you can't. Your mouth hangs open, but your tongue refuses to move. What the hell WOULD you say if you could speak, anyhow?

"Hello?" The voice says steadily, "What's the matter? Not gonna say anything?"

You only manage a pitiful squeak and look down at yourself in sheer dread. You realize your middle is slightly distended, as if you're bloated.

"Use your words!" The voice demands.

You take the deepest breath you can and stammer, "Who the hell are you?"

Your voice comes out gruff and hoarse.

"You can call me Tobias. Not Toby, Tobias." The voice says sternly.

"Okay... Tobias... Are you..?" You can't even finish.

They give a strange snort-growl that startles you a bit. "Yeah, I'm in your stomach."

You had already put this together, but hearing them say it still makes your entire body shudder. "How did you get in there?"

"Same way everything does, through your mouth." They say.

"Why?" You ask, feeling absolutely crazy.

They make the growling sound again, slower now. "I... Made a bad decision, I guess." Tobias says, "Did you know your window was unlocked?"

"...No." You say.

Tobias clears their throat. "I already knew I was doing something I'd regret the second I got my claws underneath it. Don't worry, I locked it after me."

You frankly don't know what the hell they're talking about. "Could you explain what the hell is going on before I really start freaking out?"

"Something you couldn't possibly understand. I guess I need to apologize, anyway. I'm sorry." Tobias says.

You're getting a little mad now. "You aren't even gonna try to explain?"

They groan and shift around within you. "I almost did this without saying a word. I could have just sat in here and sapped your energy and lived my life... But the way you're moving, the sounds you're making... You're really in pain, aren't you? I hurt you."

Your hand goes to your neck. "Yeah. You must have."

Tobias growls again, louder, causing their body to palpably shake. The growl gives way to a sniffle, and they let out a pitiful sob. "Fuck, why did I do this? How could I?"

You've come back around to being at a loss for words. You can only sit and listen to them cry.

They quiet back down. "Give me a minute. Let me catch my breath, and then I'll help you get me out of here the easy way."

You sigh and try not to overthink the potential ways you might do that. "Alright."

You wait as they gather themselves.

"Okay... Put one hand on your middle, right over where you can feel my paw. Hold your other hand palm up in front of you. I'm gonna count down from three. When I get to one, snap the fingers of the hand you're holding out." Tobias explains.

You feel their paw pressing forward, and awkwardly assume the position. "Ready."

Tobias counts down, and as you were asked, you snap your fingers.

In a small puff of smoke, the weight disappears from your belly and instead moves to your hand.

A rabbit-like creature stares back at you, draped across your palm and weighing your arm down. They're bigger and heavier than you would've thought. They hop across your lap and down into the floor. You stare at each other for a moment.

"I'm sorry, again." They say, averting their large eyes.

"I honestly don't know whether to be upset or tell you it's okay. I'm kinda wondering if I'm still asleep and this is a really weird dream." You say.

Tobias shakes their head. "You're definitely wide awake. I... I should go now. I've taken enough of your time and energy."

"No, wait... Do you need help, or something?" You ask, "I can't imagine you'd do what you did for the hell of it."

Tears well up in their eyes. "Don't tell me you're gonna try and help me after what I did to you."

You stand shakily from the bed. "I will if you explain all of this to me so I actually understand it."

Tobias sniffles, covers their mouth, and nods.

"Come with me into the kitchen. I need some tea for whatever you did to my throat." You say, walking out of your bedroom on slightly unstable legs.

"Okay..." Tobias says, hopping along after you.

...

[jerzwriter]

It's all relative...

Book:                   Open Heart (Book 3 timeline)

Pairing:                Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey MacTavish)

Rating:                 Teen

Category:            Fluff  

Warnings:           Suggestive language, flirting

Summary:           Casey and Tobias are starting their fall weekend with lunch at their favorite café.  Tobias insists the younger waitress is flirting with him, but Casey bets that he’s wrong.

Words:                 1601

A/N:                     OK This is another late response to this ask from @coffeeheartaddict2 , and also based on a suggestion from @icecoffee90  .  Since you both have coffee in your name, the setting is quite appropriate! I hope you enjoy this.

@choicesaugustchallenge – Day 3 – Coffee

Fallen leaves crunched under Casey’s feet as she walked through Harvard Square. After a long morning of research at the university, it was officially time for her weekend to begin, and what better way to start it than lunch at her favorite café with her favorite guy. She saw Tobias sitting at an outdoor table, looking like a snack with a light sweater over his signature black t-shirt and matching Ray-Bans. Casey chuckled as she pulled her coat more snuggly around her. The chill of Autumn was in the air, but heaven forbid he should wear a coat. His face lit up when he saw the love of his life walking toward him. Jumping to his feet, he wrapped her in a warm embrace, peppering the top of her head with kisses as she giggled into his chest.

"God, I've missed you," he gasped.

"Tobias,” she teased as she sat across from him, “you dropped me off at the library five hours ago."

"I know, and I've missed you every second since."

Starving, Casey went right to the menu. She knew she was getting a pumpkin spice latte, but she’d need more sustenance than that. Especially with the plans she had in store for Tobias after lunch. While she perused the offerings of soups, sandwiches, and quiches, Tobias gently tapped her hand.

"Hey, babe. I just want to let you know… the waitress is a little flirty."

"Oh," she smirked, placing her menu back on the table. "And are we flirting back?"

"We?" Tobias laughed, "Do you have some kinky items to cross off your bucket list this afternoon that I am unaware of."

"As a matter of fact, I do. But no one else is invited."

"And I wouldn't want it any other way. I'm just giving you a heads up because… you know."

"Tobias," she sighed, a combination of embarrassment and annoyance in her tone. "We discussed this, and I get it. No one is a threat to me. We’re together, you love me, and I have nothing to worry about, so why…."

"I know, hun. I know that's in the past, but still, she's been a little over the top, so I thought I'd give you a heads up."

"Do I need to kick her ass?" Casey teased, rolling up her coat sleeve.

"Only if a jello pit is available," he winked as she shook her head.

"Wait…" Casey stalled. "Is that… that young brunette… is that our waitress?"

Tobias turned and looked cautiously over his shoulder. "Yeah, that's her."

"T," she groaned. "She is not flirting with you. She can't be more than nineteen years old."

He lowered his Ray-Ban's for a better look, then turned back to Casey.

"Early twenties, and what I'm thirty-seven. Are you saying I'm too old for her to hit on me?”

"Sweetie, when I was her age, I would have thought you were a relic. A hot relic, but a relic nevertheless."

"I'm hurt,” he stammered, removing his glasses and leaving them on the table. “You make it sound like I have one foot in the geriatric ward."

"I didn't say that," Casey insisted. "I am just saying…."

"Hi, ma'am, can I get you something to drink?"

Casey's head flipped to find the young beauty peering down at her. She was exquisite. Flawless olive skin made her piercing blue eyes stand out even more; brilliant jet-black hair flowing past her shoulders, she was a vision, but she couldn't have been more than twenty.

"Yes, I'll have a pumpkin spice latte. And my brother-in-law here will have another coffee."

"Sure thing. That was light and sweet, sir… right," the waitress smiled.

"Uh, yeah… yeah. Sure thing." He replied as the young woman trotted back inside for their drinks.

"Your brother-in-law?"

"Mmm-hmm," Casey hummed. "If I'm going to sit back and observe this social experiment, I can't have her knowing I'm your girlfriend…."

"But why? What’s the experiment?"

"I say she is not flirting with you. And I bet you the sex act of your choice later on that she isn’t.”

"Oh really! I will double that and allow you two sex acts of your choice this afternoon if she is."

"You're on! Tobias,” she hissed. “The things I am going to make you do…."

"Hmm. You heard her, light and sweet…."

"That’s how you drink your coffee, T? That’s your proof of flirting?”

“Sit back and observe sweetheart… you’ll see.”

The young woman returned to the table and placed the drinks before them. As she took their lunch orders, Casey had to admit that she was being quite attentive to Tobias. But when she returned with their sandwiches, she began chatting amicably with Casey.

“So, have you been with his brother for a long time?”

“His sister,” Casey corrected.

“Oh! I’m sorry!”

“No apologies needed,” Casey smiled. “We’ve been together about five years now. And trust me,” she said quickly, peeking at Tobias, “I am the luckiest woman in the world.”

“Aww,” the young woman sighed. “So, they’re a nice family? What’s it like having this one as a brother-in-law?"

“Tobias? Oh, he’s amazing. Would I waste my Saturday afternoon with my wife’s brother if I didn’t think so?”

“I supposed not,” the waitress said as she eyed Tobias from head to toe. 

Casey's smile fell, and worry crept in its place. Perhaps Tobias was right. Even though she knew she had nothing to fear, her stomach churned when she realized she may be inadvertently playing wing woman for her boyfriend.

“Yeah, she wouldn’t flirt with me,” Tobias mocked as she walked away. “Not grandpa over here.”

“She is being observant….”

“Mmm-hmm,” Tobias goaded. “Is that what we’re calling it? She wants a piece of this.”

“You think?” Casey laughed.

“I know. As much as you want a piece of pumpkin pie.”

“Oh, T.  You better dial down your expectations because you have no idea how much I want pumpkin pie!”

A few minutes later, the pie was on Casey’s plate, and the check was on the table. The waitress's smile was bright, but the tension in her voice belied any confidence she was attempting to project. 

“Uhm… I’m… I’m Cara,” she hesitated. 

Casey looked at the check, and her eyes widened. “617-555-5555” was written in dark black ink on the flip side of the bill. She sucked in a deep breath.

Shit! He’s going to win! Casey thought, quickly relaxing when she realized the “payment” wasn’t so bad. However, the amount of times she would have to hear ‘I told you so’ would be.  

“… I left a number on the check. If you’d like, maybe you could….”

“Cara, before you continue. You’re absolutely lovely, but I have a girlfriend whom I love very much.”

“Oh, wait… me?” Cara gasped. “You thought I was giving you my number?”

“Well, yeah, isn’t this….”

“No, no!” Cara laughed. “I’ve got a boyfriend too. Derrick, the barista inside.”

“So then, why were you giving me your number?”

“Well… you are cute… and you seemed like a nice guy… and I’ve been trying to tell my Mom that she needs to get out there again….”

Casey chortled into her latte, and Tobias and Cara turned to her as she spat back in her cup. Tobias’s eyes narrowed as he thought of the ribbing he would take.

“Are you all right?” Cara asked. 

“Yes, I’m fine. I just found that… a little hard to swallow.”

Casey simpered as Tobias returned the Ray-Bans to his face and looked away. 

“Well, I’m flattered. But I am very taken.”

“Well, she is very lucky.”

“Oh, she is,” Casey confirmed.

“I hope I didn’t embarrass you….”

“Not at all, dear,” he said, handing over his credit card. Suddenly eager to leave.

Casey watched Cara, waiting until she was several feet inside the door before flipping her head back and falling into a fit of laughter.

“Oh, you think you’re funny now?”

She wanted to answer him, but it was difficult to do so. Her face was turning red, and tears rolled out the corner of her eyes.  

“It’s not that bad, T.  I mean, think of it… you were probably 17 or 18 when she was born. Technically, you are old enough to be her father….”

“OK, enough, princess. You’ve had your fun!”

“Oh, I haven’t even begun to have my fun! The nasty things I have in mind… Dr. Carrick, they may even make you blush.”

“Uh… sir,” Cara interrupted, looking judgementally between the two. “Here’s your card back.”  She quickly picked the check with her mother’s number up from the table, crumbling it and shoving it into her pocket. “I guess... I guess it’s for the best this didn’t work out… my mom, she’s not into this kinky stuff.”

“No, wait!” Tobias yelled after her. “It’s not what you think… I don’t even have a sister….”

“Tobias…” Casey ordered. “Let it go.”

The café door slammed behind Cara as the couple’s eyes met. Silence surrounded them for a moment, then Tobias’s slow, rumbling laugh filled the air. Patrons all stared as they doubled over in laughter, no longer able to contain their amusement.

“We better get out of here,” Tobias said.

“Yeah,” Casey agreed, dabbing her eyes with a napkin, “we should. And Tobias?”

“Yes, love?”

“The things I am going to make you do…..”

Standing from the table, he offered Casey his hand with a seductive glint in his eyes. 

“And I’m looking forward to every single one. Just don’t tell my sister.”

They never went to that café again….

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Perma Fics Only: @txemrn @spookycolorpeanut

Tobias Only: icecoffee90

[letarasstuff]

Can I stay with you?

(A/N): This is based on this, this and this post. I really hope you are ready for the feels, because they are there and they are heavy-

Summary: Following the events of Emily's death, how will Spencer and his daughter cope with it?

Warnings: Angst and lots of it, mentions of drug use, contemplations of drug use, mentions of needles, we also got some bittersweet fluff

Wordcount: 2.5k

✨Masterlist✨ _______________________________

A hospital is not a place where a child should be, Spencer knows that much. But he picked (Y/N) up on his way for two reasons:

The first one being the simple occurence that the babysitter is not able to keep her any longer, because she has classes in the next morning. The second one is selfish and the father knows that, but he needs her presence, the comfort she brings to him.

“Daddy”, the child breaks the silence in the waiting room, “Is Auntie Emily going to be ok?” She sits in his lap reading a book before looking up at him. Her eyes hold something he wishes to never see again: Fear. The fear of losing someone she loves dearly.

“I hope, Baby. But let’s not forget one important fact: Your Auntie Emily is one of the strongest women I know.” Spencer gives her a kiss on the top of her head and cuddles her closer to him, seeing (Y/N)’s eyes dropping. The rest of the team watches the interaction with aching hearts.

The girl is asleep for half an hour when JJ enters the room. Everybody gets up crowding her. Spencer is careful to not disturb his daughter as he moves her head to his shoulder and hooks his arm under her legs.

“She never made it off the table.” These words echo in the genius’ mind, seemingly being the only things he can think about. “I-I never had the chance to say goodbye.” JJ hugs him, trying to give some sort of comfort. In this process (Y/N) wakes up. As soon as she spots her father’s tears, she knows not to ask a question. Instead she loops her arms around his neck.

“It’s fine. It’s gonna be alright, Daddy”, the toddler recalls the words he says to her whenever she is upset in hopes to cheer him up.

The next couple days are hard on the whole team. They try to grieve together, especially while the funeral takes place. (Y/N) notices that the color black is fitting, since her Auntie really liked to wear it. She likes that they do the same to pay their respects that way.

“Auntie Penny, is she watching?” The blonde woman carries her while the casket is walked down the aisle. Since her death, (Y/N) doesn’t dare to say Emily’s name. She thinks if she avoids it, she is going to inflict less pain when she is talked about.

“Of course. Emily is in heaven and watches this beautiful beautiful ceremony we hold for her. So wipe that frown off and put on that smile she loved so much. Alright?” Confusing to her, the adults want (Y/N) to smile all the time. But they are frowning and crying more often than not.

“Can she hear us? Because I want to say I love her. I forgot to say it the last time I saw her.” Trying to distract herself from seeing the casket lowering into the grave, the girl plays with Penlope’s hair. She in turn has to fight tears back. Only now she realizes the impact the whole thing has on her.

“I’m sure she does. What about when the majority is gone, we go to her grave and talk to Emily? Do we have a deal?” (Y/N) nods.

As soon as the ceremony is over, Spencer takes his daughter, cradling her close to him. As if she senses his sadness, the girl is petting his back in a comforting way. He squeezes her closer to him, leaving her not much room to breathe.

“Daddy, I wanna talk to her. I need to get down.” (Y/N) wiggles in his grasp after she whispers this into his ear. Reluctantly Spencer lets her down and she toddles over to the freshly made grave. A little plastic card sticks out of the grass in place of a headstone.

The adults try to give her as much space as possible, they have to let grieve on her own.

“Hey, Auntie Emily. I-I wanted to say I love you, and I forgot to tell you this the last time so I say it a second time. I love you. And I miss you. I think Daddy misses you too. He is sad since you are gone. I’m too. I think it’s because we miss you. But I hope you like Heaven. Maybe you see my Mommy. When you do, can you say I love her?

“I’ll try to see you soon, Auntie. Goodbye!” (Y/N) goes back to her father and makes grabby hands towards him. Gladly Spencer picks her up again, putting a kiss on her head. “Wanna go home, Daddy.” The child mumbles, exhausted by all the stress and emotions from the day.

The father is relieved to have an excuse to skip the meal with the team. He is scared that the evening at the little restaurant is clouded by sadness and angst. Spencer doesn’t need that right now, a nice sit in with his daughter sounds way better.

After saying their goodbyes the little family sits in the car on their way to the apartment. As soon as Spencer starts the car, (Y/N) is fast asleep. He looks at her through the rear view mirror, happy to see her at peace. It gives the father time to sort through his own thoughts. Since Emily’s death (Y/N) tries to be around him constantly, which he is thankful for, because she keeps the darkness away.

Her last hours play again and again before his eyes. The different ways he could have stopped all of this. Why didn’t he say more when she began biting her nails? When she said “Laura Reynolds is dead”? Maybe all of this is his fault?

His forearm begins to itch. Exactly where Tobias Hankel injected the needle same as he did several times. Maybe, maybe it would make everything better? Just this one tim-

“Daddy? When are we home?” The small voice cuts off his train of thought. Spencer needs a few seconds to clear his mind. Did he really think that? Taking dilaudid while the reason he fought his addiction literally sits right behind him? “Just a few minutes, Sweetheart. Do you want to go to bed after dinner?”

As if she knows that the father can’t be left alone in this state, (Y/N) answers: “No, I wanna watch a movie with you. Can we watch Alvin and the chipmunks? I love Simon so much!” This places a smile on his face, the excitement in her eyes scare his dark thoughts away. “Sure, Peanut. We can watch whatever you want.”

It's the fourth evening in a row that the girl sleeps in her father’s bed. She either falls asleep there or climbs next to him in the middle of the night, so he figures he lets her sleep there right away.

“Good night, Sweetheart”, he tells her as they lay down. Even though it’s quite early for Spencer to go to bed it’s (Y/N)’s time. “Good night, Daddy”, she tells him while snuggling closer, “I love you. Soooooo much.”

The young doctor decides to take the next few days off from work in order to work through the events. The first one he spends coloring in books with her the whole day. While she works on her own books gifted by various members of the BAU, Spencer has his own extra made for adults. He can’t deny the soothing effect it has on him. The repeating moves calms the storm of thoughts inside his head.

The next day the two of them sit the whole day on the small couch in the living room, (Y/N) on his lap, and read. Sometimes they read for themselves, others the father reads outloud from his own or (Y/N) from her own. It’s kind of therapeutic to hear his child doing something he enjoyed his whole life.

“Daddy, do you think she feels lonely in heaven? There is nobody she knows, she has to wait for us to follow her, doesn’t she?” Not prepared for such a deep question, Spencer is caught off guard.

He clears his throat before answering. “Uh, Auntie Emily isn’t that lonely up there, you know. You can’t remember him, but Uncle Gideon, a friend from work and someone I looked up to, is there. He surely greeted her with open arms, happy to see her. And your Mommy is also there, she certainly asked lots of questions about you.” “A-are you sure? I told her to say Mommy ‘I love you’ when she sees her.” (Y/N) looks up to her father with big eyes.

He is not sure if he is lying right now to her, but he sees that his daughter needs the reassurance. “Yes, I’m sure.” To lighten the mood he begins to tickle her, which ends in a tickle fight which in turn ends in tiring the girl out and falling asleep while watching a Disney movie.

The next day is by far the worst since it all happened. Both (Y/N) and Spencer haven’t slept much due to nightmares from both sides (him comforting her as she tears him from his own), which results in a grumpy toddler and a non stop coffee drinking adult.

“Sweetheart, you need to put that shirt on. Auntie JJ is expecting us in ten minutes. Please, stop fighting me”, he begs, but she continues to cry. As Spencer tries for a third time to put it on her (Y/N) throws herself to the other side of the bed.

“I don’t want that, Daddy!” She finally gets out through her sobs. Spencer halts in his movements. “Why? That’s your favorite, Baby.” While (Y/N) begins to cry louder, he leaves the clothing article on the bed and gathers her in his arm, rocking her back and forth additionally to whispering sweet reassurances in her ear.

“She gave it to me. I don’t wanna make it dirty or ruin it”, the toddler says between shaky breaths. For what feels like the trillionth time, the young agent’s heart breaks over this statement. He has a bigger vocabulary than the average English speaking person, but at this moment Spencer is at a loss of words.

“Sweetheart, I apologize for not acknowledging this right away. I’ll get another shirt out for you, ok? Thank you so much for telling and helping me.” Just a few minutes later the little family is on their way to the next metro stop. It’s then that Spencer realizes his day won’t be any easier.

“(Y/N) you can sit in the seat next to me like you always do. Why do you have to sit in my lap today?” Normally he isn’t someone who denies his child physical contact, but the seating chart has a logical purpose. Being on a train with a child means you have some kind of luggage with you, which leads to occupying a four seats compartment. In order to prevent somebody taking the seat next to him, Spencer places his daughter there. It’s a win win situation for everybody, really.

Unfortunately for him (Y/N) is extra clingy today and won’t stop crawling onto his lap. With a sigh he accepts his defeat and tries not to think about the amount of germs that fly around.

Another problem that torments the father: Over the last few days his cravings grew. Especially today the feeling, the need, for another shot and another high is undeniable for him. As if sensing this (Y/N) sticks by his side throughout the whole time, keeping his mind off of the drug that changes him.

While they are at the Jareau’s and Lamontagne’s household, his daughter refuses to play with Henry. “I wanna stay with you”, she murmurs into his shoulder. Again Spencer accepts his defeat and sits down on the couch next to his best friend.

“Sweetheart, you need to let me go. I have to go to the bathroom, you can’t come with me.” This is followed by a tsunami of tears. While JJ tries to console her, he slips out of the room discreetly.

Due to (Y/N)’s current grumpiness and Spencer’s fatigue they quickly call it a night, even though he could use some more comfort from his friends.

“Good night, Sweetheart. Sleep tight and dream nice. I love you”, he says after tucking his child in and giving her a kiss on the forehead. “Night night, Daddy. I love you, too”, her small voice echoes back to him and makes him smile softly.

Spencer finds his way back to the living room and sits down with a book in his lap. As expected he doesn’t get much reading done, too distracted by his own thoughts. The events of the night of his colleague’s, his friend’s, death replay themselves over and over again.

What if he made his conclusions faster? He is supposed to be the smart one, the one the team relies on for making important connections. But he failed once so who knows what happens when he fails again? Next time it could be the whole team dying. He could die. He would leave (Y/N) alone with the team gone. His mother isn’t capable of caring for her and his father doesn’t even know she exists. She will go into foster care, into a home with too many kids. She will be looked over, too small to be seen. Her potential will go to waste and she will never achieve anything she is capable of. And all that because he hasn’t made a conclusion fast enough.

Spencer’s scars on his forearm itch worse than ever. One shot. Only one shot to make the thoughts go away. To make the guilt go away, the bad feelings. He needs it. He needs to cure himself from the symptoms of being a human.

Before the young doctor even registers what he is doing he already put his jacket on and looks for his wallet when a voice startles him.

“Daddy, i can't sleep. Can I stay with you again?” (Y/N) stands in the doorway, clutching her stuffed animal and her blanket, shielding her eyes from the light, oblivious to what her father was about to do.

“Oh Darling, of course. Do you want me to read to you? Or we drink hot chocolate and watch a movie?” He suggests, ready to distract himself from anything that’s going on in his mind. A few minutes later his daughter cuddles into his side while watching once again Alvin and the Chipmunks.

Spencer is just happy to have his light in his life all the time and is ready to tackle any task to keep her there, may it be once again the weekly visits for anonymous narcotics or time off from work to process the events together in therapy.

Taglist:

All works:

@agentshortstacc

Criminal Minds:

@averyhotchner @mggsprettygirl

Spencer Reid x child!reader:

@ilovetaquitosmmmm

[bex-la-get]

Take Care of You (Ethan x f!MC)

Book: Open Heart

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Natalie Cusack

Special Appearance: Tobias Carrick

Word count: 2175

Summary: When Ethan falls sick, Nat steps in to take care of him.

Rating: T

Author’s Note: Hi, hello. It’s been a crappy week and I’m emotionally/physically exhausted. So here’s some fluff to counter the bad week. This is unedited, so please forgive any mistakes. Hope you like it. 💙

Ethan never got sick. Ever. Despite working in a hospital, surrounded by sick people on a daily basis, Ethan always managed to stay as healthy as possible. He had prided himself on his strong immune system and seemingly inability to fall ill.

Until today, that is. He woke with so much pressure in his sinuses, he thought his head would burst. Getting out of bed was a feat in itself, as his whole body ached. He sniffled as he made his way to the bathroom and nearly jumped at his own reflection: his eyes were puffy, his nose was red, and his posture was significantly slouched. He tried to stand up straight but only groaned as his body protested the movement. Today was going to be long. 

Pushing through, he swallowed a couple of DayQuils with his morning coffee, stuffed some tissues into his pocket, and gave Jenner a pat on the head before sluggishly making his way to work. 

Arriving at the hospital, he noticed the looks of surprise and concern that people gave him as he passed. He didn’t know why; it was just a little cold. It wasn’t like he had grown a second head. He rolled his eyes and continued towards the seventh floor, ignoring everyone he walked past. 

Finally arriving in the Diagnostics Office, he found himself breathing heavier than normal. As he sat at his desk, he attempted to take a deep breath but instead triggered a coughing fit. He grabbed a nearby Kleenex and coughed hard, his body wracking with the movement. He took a deep breath and coughed one last time before his lungs took pity on him and stopped causing him distress. Ethan groaned and dropped his head into his hands. 

“Ethan? You okay, man?” a voice said.

Ethan looked up to find Tobias looking at him with concern. He hadn’t even heard his old friend come in. He nodded and sighed. “Yeah; just a little under the weather today, is all.”

“If you’re not feeling well, you should probably go home,” Tobias suggested. “There’s no point in pushing yourself to further exhaustion.”

Ethan shook his head. “I’m fine; I just need the DayQuil to kick in.”

Tobias pursed his lips then clicked his tongue. “If you say so; Nat’s not gonna be happy to see you like this though.”

“See who like what?” the aforementioned doctor asked as she walked into the room. Natalie looked to Tobias first then Ethan, her eyes widening. “Woah, are you okay?” She quickly made her way over to Ethan and rested the back of her hand to his forehead. 

He weakly brushed her hand away. “I’m fine, Nat. Just a little under the weather.”

“I’d say more than a little; you look terrible!” She exclaimed. He frowned and she gave him a small smile. “Sorry babe, but it’s true.”

“I also walked in on him having a serious coughing fit a moment ago,” Tobias said. Ethan glared at Tobias but the latter deliberately avoided eye contact with him, choosing to look at his phone instead.

Natalie gently placed her hand on Ethan’s cheek and turned his face towards her so she could look at him. He watched as her eyes scanned his face and knew she was trying to figure out how sick he really was. He both loved and hated how well she knew him sometimes. “You should go home, Ethan.”

“I’m fine,” he argued. “I already took some meds, they just need to kick in.”

She pulled out her stethoscope and pointed it at him threateningly. “Go home or I’ll admit you.”

Tobias coughed back a chuckle and Ethan raised an eyebrow. “You do remember I’m your boss, right?”

She nodded as she put the headset into her ears and placed the cold chestpiece against his chest, making him jump. “You’re my boss, my boyfriend, and now, my patient. Breathe in.”

“Nat, this is ridiculous--” he argued but stopped when she glared at him.

“Breathe. In.” she repeated. Shaking his head in reply, he did as she said and found taking a breath was difficult. He fought the cough he could feel bubbling up but to no avail; thankfully, however, this cough was not nearly as violent as the last one. Nat pulled the chestpiece away and nodded. “Yeah, you’re a mess. You’re going home.” He opened his mouth to protest but she held up her hand. “Don’t argue with me on this. You’re in no state to work, let alone be around other sick patients.” 

She pulled out a prescription pad, scribbled something down then turned to Tobias and handed it to him. “Tobias, can you send this down to the pharmacy so they can get it filled? I’ll pick it up when it’s ready.”

He nodded and took the form. “Sure thing.” He turned to Ethan and smiled sympathetically. “Get better soon, Ethan. Nat’s not as fun to be around when she’s in charge.”

Natalie rolled her eyes and smirked as Tobias made his way out of the office. She turned back to Ethan and softened her gaze as he frowned and sniffled. She caressed his cheek with her hand. “I love you.”

His frown shifted to a small smile. “I love you too.” He sneezed.

“You see why I’m sending you home, right?”

He sighed and nodded. “Yeah; I do. I hate being sick. I always feel so useless.”

“You are still human, my love; and humans get sick from time to time. It’s normal.” She crouched in front of him and took his hands in hers. “I’ll come over after my shift and make you some soup, okay?”

“You don’t have to do that--” he weakly protested.

She shook her head. “I want to; let me take care of you, baby. Please.”

Sighing, he nodded and stood, bringing Natalie up with him. He reached for her but hesitated as he didn’t want to make her ill. She smiled at him and stood on her tiptoes to place a gentle kiss on his forehead. “Go home and get some rest. I’ll be there in a couple hours.”

He nodded. Sighing, he left the hospital and made his way home, his head in a fog for most of the journey. After safely arriving home, he changed into some more comfortable clothing, with the intention of getting some work done on his laptop; but the bed looked just so inviting. I guess I could lay down for a few minutes, he thought. Gently, he laid on the bed and closed his eyes. Five minutes is all I need. Within seconds, his body relaxed and he began to emit quiet snores, work completely forgotten.

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

Several Hours Later

Ethan woke to the muffled sounds of the television and someone shuffling around in his kitchen. He groaned and got out of bed, padding his way to the source of the noise. As he exited the bedroom, he was greeted with the various sights of onion, tomato, and meat that were cooking on the stovetop. Unfortunately, due to his stuffed sinuses, he could barely smell anything but he presumed it was heavenly.

“Hi,” a voice said. He turned his attention to the source and smiled as Natalie approached him, throwing a hand towel over her shoulder. “How are you feeling?”

“Not great,” he replied, truthfully.

She gently brought his forehead to her lips as she judged his temperature. She hummed as she pulled away. “You’re warm.” She turned around and grabbed a small box out of her purse then handed it to him. He looked it over appraisingly, realizing this must be the prescription Nat wrote out earlier. “Take one of these now; it should lower your fever and help you feel better. Go get comfortable, the soup will be ready soon.”

“You didn’t have to do all this, Nat,” he began.

“Of course I did,” she said, cutting him off. She rested a gentle hand on his back and guided him towards the sofa. “Now, relax and get comfy. I’m almost done.”

Ethan did as she said, plopping down on the couch. He opened the prescription box and took the prescribed medication as Jenner trotted over and rested his head in his master’s lap. Ethan patted the pup’s head soothingly, giving him a tired smile. “Has she been giving you orders today, too?” he asked.

“Unlike you, Jenner is a spectacular patient,” Nat answered from the kitchen. “He’s been very good and even earned himself a few treats for being so good.”

“Did you, now?” Ethan mused, looking down at Jenner. The pup, none the wiser to the conversation happening about him, simply wagged his tail and gave his best doggy smile to his owner. Ethan chuckled. “Good dog.”

Taking the remote, he flipped to the Classic Film channel and sunk lower onto the couch. He felt his body begin to shiver and grabbed the nearby throw blanket, covering himself with it. “God, this is awful. I hate being sick.”

“I know, my love,” Nat soothed. “But the meds I gave you should help. They just need time to kick in. And,” she walked over and placed a bowl of hot soup in front of him on the coffee table, “this should help too. It’s an old family recipe of Dani’s. It works wonders.”

“Speaking from experience?” he asked, leaning over, letting the steam from the hot bowl wash over his face. 

Nat nodded. “Yep. Both Dani and I got the flu within a week of each other when we were still living together. She made this soup for us and we both felt better almost immediately. I’m convinced it’s got magic powers.”

Ethan chuckled. “I’ll take your word for it.” He pulled the coffee table a little closer to the couch and smiled at Nat. “Thank you for making this.”

“You’re welcome,” she said, returning his smile. “Now, eat. I’ll be right there.”

Lacking the energy to argue, he did as she said, bringing a spoonful of the hot soup to his lips. Within minutes, Ethan felt the hot liquid warm up his body, which had been starting to feel cold. Nat smiled as she joined him with her own bowl, nodding in approval as he steadily ate. 

Nat filled him in on what he missed at work while they ate, which hadn’t been much, thankfully. Their new patient wouldn’t be admitted for another week so the team had just done some prep and research today but nothing else beyond that. Ethan asked a few questions as Nat explained but otherwise, remained quiet through their conversation. Nat raised an eyebrow, suspicious. “You’re being unusually cooperative. What’s the matter?”

He chuckled and placed his near empty bowl on the coffee table. “Nothing. I’m just feeling a little drained, is all.”

“Mm, I’m not surprised. When you get sick, it hits you like a freight train.”

He frowned. “Thanks.”

Nat chuckled and settled deeper into the couch. She opened her arms and gestured towards herself with her fingers. “C’mere.”

Needing no further invitation, Ethan maneuvered himself into Nat’s embrace, covering them both with the throw blanket he had still been wearing. As he relaxed in her arms, he wondered aloud, “Aren’t you worried about getting sick?”

She hummed. “Nah. But even if I was, it wouldn’t stop me from being here.” She ran her fingers through his hair. “I would take care of you, anytime.”

He looked up at her and smiled. “Thank you, Nat. You’re too good for me.”

“No, I’m not,” she replied, smiling. “We’re just the right amount of good for each other.” She kissed his head. “Can I get you anything else?”

He shook his head, tightening his hold around her midsection. “No. Just you.”

“I’m right here,” Nat reassured. 

“Love you,” Ethan murmured, his eyes fluttering closed.

“I love you too. Now, rest.” She gently leaned over and took the remote from the coffee table.

“Don’t watch the next episode of Bake Off without me,” Ethan said, his voice drowsy.

Nat chuckled. “I wouldn’t dare. When you’re feeling better, we’ll pick up where we left off.” When he didn’t respond, she glanced down to find that Ethan had fallen asleep. Smiling to herself, she turned on an old favorite film of hers and watched, while running her fingers up and down Ethan’s back. 

It would be a few more days before Ethan was back in top shape; but Nat took care of him the entire time. From bringing him food to ensuring he rested instead of working, Nat took better care of Ethan than he had ever done himself when he had been sick in the past. He’d never been so well taken care of before, and it made him all the more grateful to have her in his life. He’d always hoped she’d take over the DT for him one day; and after the way she cared for him, he knew the team would be in the best possible hands. And so would he.

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