#sadly I didn't think it through enough (as always) and now I don't believe I can trim the top or bottom- _that_ should happen pre rounding

[bedoballoons]

I read both mitsuri!reader head cannons (love them)!!! I was wondering if I could request if they met the readers EX who called her all those names and made her insecure.

Thank youuu!!! Also I have been thinking about that and oh my gosh I'm so glad you requested it!!

─⊰⁠⊹ฺ🎃𝔾𝕖𝕟𝕤𝕙𝕚𝕟 ℍ𝕖𝕒𝕕𝕔𝕒𝕟𝕠𝕟𝕤⊰⁠⊹ฺ🎃

{༻~Insecurities~༺}

CW: Angsty with comfort!, F! reader gets called names, character helps, established relationships, cursing, and some mentions of weight shaming/eating disorders! (Pet names: Lyney: Mon amour!)

Also I only wrote 4 characters with this one because it was soooo longggg!!

(Includes: Diluc, Lyney, Albedo, and Wanderer!)

Past Demon slayer/Genshin fics:

Mitsuri reader pt 1

Mitsuri reader pt 2

Mitsuri like reader X Lyney

Tokito Muichiro reader

Shinobo Kocho reader

Shinobo Kocho reader

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𑁍༄Diluc:

You smiled happily, pink green strands of hair flowing in the wind as you lounged on the blanket Diluc had laid down, the subtle scent of the apples he was cutting for your picnic sweet and tantalising, but sadly enough to make your stomach gurgle uneasily. You wouldn't say it out loud...especially not in front of him, but even despite both of your best efforts you were still finding it difficult to actually consume food. It had become a torture to eat...even when you were hungry or it was your favourite dish...those words just kept coming back.

"Oh my archons...look who it is. Didn't think I would be seeing you outside the gates of Mondstat, especially with the owner of the infamous wine industry."

Your whole body went cold, eyes shooting to the direction of the familiar voice...the voice that had said the words that changed you, that made you see your own body as a mistake. "I-i...ahem, he's my boyfriend." You silently cursed yourself for having such a shaky tone, if Diluc hadn't figured it out just by your reaction...he definitely had when you started to speak.

He stood up with crimson eyes that had gone dark, a menacing look decorating his features as he stared the other man down, "Don't believe we've met, who are you?" You glanced between the two of them, feeling like your presence was steadily growing smaller as they stared eachother down...the situation was making you feel sick to your stomach.

"I'm her ex boyfriend. Honestly I can't believe she caught the owner of the winery, are you some type of chubby chaser?"

That name...it hit you like a ton of bricks, any thoughts of recovery slipping away as tears filled your eyes, but you weren't alone this time. You jumped as Diluc grabbed your ex by his shirt, pulling him close so his fist would be inches away, "If you ever, call her that again...I will find a way to make you disappear, do you understand me? She's perfect the way she is and I love her more than anything else, besides your opinions don't matter...there's only two people who should see her for how goregous she is. Me and her."

𑁍༄Lyney:

Lyney swung your intertwined hands gently, humming a soft melody while the two of you walked through fontaine. It had become a routine now, taking a walk together after his show and sharing a meal, it was one of the few times you enjoyed eating...mostly because you weren't actually focused on the food. Your attention was drawn to Lyney, the way he always seemed to be glowing with love and excitement after a show, the way he talked with adoration and he never once failed to mention how you'd inspired one of his tricks, it was so calm...that just for a moment you forgot everything else.

"Oh mon amour! Look a new shop has opened up, how about we eat there?" You tiled your head to see past him and sure enough there was a new shop, bustling with customers. "Oh Lyney...it's so crowded though." He chuckled, pulling you into a warm embrace, his eyes meeting yours as he placed a kiss on your lips lovingly, "I won't force you, but...we could just get something to eat and then find a nice quiet spot, it would be different...in a good way."

A light blush dusted your cheeks as you let him lead you to the crowd, silently agreeing to his adventurous ideas like you always seemed to.

"No way...is that you?! You haven't changed one bit have you?"

You stopped dead in your tracks, emotions all but gone at the sound of that voice...the one that haunted your nightmares and used to make you feel so small...treat you like you were nothing but a number on a scale. He seemed to be waiting for your response, but you couldn't bring yourself to say anything...you were frozen in place, heart racing.

"Mon amour who's this?" You glanced at Lyney, wondering if he could tell you were uncomfortable, but he didn't appear to have any difference in attitude...had he really not noticed?

"I'm the one who was trying to keep her out of these foodlines so she wouldn't get any fatter, looking out for her health like a good boyfriend should do...guess you can't say the same."

For a split second you thought Lyney was going to strike him, instead he chuckled and lowered his voice to almost a whisper, a terrifying tone seeping into his words as he spoke, "You should really stop talking....I happen to be apart of the fatui and truthfully, if you utter one more word about my perfect girl, you won't be able to say anything at all by the time we are done with you."

𑁍༄Albedo:

Klee held onto your hand tightly, pulling you through the crowded streets with Albedo trailing not far behind. The air was filled with the delicious smells of baked goods and fresh made dishes, and the streets were decorated with stalls that held bottles of wine, toys, banners, anything you could imagine. It was a festival like no other and you couldn't believe you got to be apart of it.

"Come on come on!! We are almost to the stage! Dodoco wants to see it all decorated!!" You giggled happily, following the little girl as she lead you up to the big stage in the center of all of the magic. It really was a sight to see, ribbon and cecilia's hung up with fairy lights, a sweet bard strumming away on his lyre while he sang of a hero from another land and to top it all of, there were dancers not far away, each of them moving to the melody with their partners.

"Wow...this is incredible." You stood in awe for a second as Albedo lifted Klee onto his shoulders, her hands holding dodoco in the air so it could watch along with her. It was a picture perfect moment,...one you wanted to remember forever...until it was ruined. Your eyes landed on met that of a person walking towards you...a familiar face you had thought you'd left in the past.

You crossed your arms over yourself protectively, hoping he wouldn't say a word to you, but of course that would only be to easy, "Heyy look who it is...see you got yourself a new partner to shove food in your mouth. He's clearly feeding you right isn't he?"

Your breath caught in your throat, your clothes suddenly feeling tighter and your previous small meal you'd barely managed to take a few bites of rumbling in your tummy.

"Im sorry what was that? Clearly you must be blind, she's truthfully a work of art and without a doubt the most stunning woman I've ever had the pleasure of laying my eyes on. Perhaps you should go get another plate of food, actually make it two since you look like you could probably eat both, and stop bothering everyone with that tragic excuse of a voice you have."

"A-a-albedo?!"

𑁍༄Wanderer:

Wanderer huffed quietly as you pushed away your plate of food, less then half of it missing and yet you were already feeling queasy? It bugged him to no end,...no matter how many times he said you were perfect and argued with you that your weight was never a issue...you still thought it was. He begged you, something he never thought he never thought he'd do, to try and see yourself from his perspective, but it didn't work.

"You want some of mine? Maybe you'd like it more if it was different? Hey? What's up with you?" Wanderer waved his hand in front of your face, surprised to see fear in your eyes and goosebumps forming on your skin, you didn't even look like you were breathing you were so deathly still. It actually freaked him out a little, could humans just die like that?

"Hey stop that, you're making me all worried. What are you looking at?" He tapped your hand, but with no response he turned to follow your line of sight...it was just some guy? That's what had you all scared?, "Who is he? Did he beat you up? I won't let him hurt you if that's what you're afraid of." You shrunk into your chair, footsteps drawing closer as the some guy made his way to your table...

"If it isn't my ex girlfriend. I really didn't think I'd be seeing you at a restaurant...actually I did completely, I'm more shocked you don't have three plates finished yet. Piggy. Even got the pink green hair to prove it...and who's this clown, his hats bigger than he is."

You covered your face in embarrassment, trying to hide away from the situation...not let either men know how much it bothered you, but Wanderer was to clever for that and he took no shame in starting something...

"How about I take my big hat and shove it so far up your ass you see actual pigs fly. Maybe then you'd know the difference between when you should keep your mouth shut and when you should open it. Oh and moron, she's clearly not a pig cause she looks nothing like you."

He stood up with a grunt, pushing the guy so harshly he was sent backwards falling to the ground with a satisfying thud while your boyfriend grabbed your hand and lead you away, telling you more than once how beautiful you looked as you made your way home.

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◥(•̀￦•́)◤☪︎ ִ ࣪𖤐 ☾𖤓~Have a nice day~*⁠.⁠✧

[tsxkkis]

# tsukishima kei - eyes don't lie

a/n: as @moonswolfie said, this man has me wrapped around his finger, so here's another tsukki fic^^ i wanted to post it earlier, but bcs of school i sadly wasn't able to do that

summary: tsukishima definitely isn't jealous. or is he?

warnings: none

tsukishima's eyes were always glued to you.

his world revolved around you ever since you were little. although distant and dry at first, tsukishima seemed to take keen interest in your person almost immediately. he was lucky enough to end up in the same high school and class as you, even more lucky when he found a handwritten love letter in his locker, the writing obviously yours.

his eyes would glint whenever they landed on your frame, his lips always curving into a small, barely noticeable smile. yet this time, his look was completely different.

he looked annoyed, almost mad as he stood in the corner, his back against the wall as he carefully scanned the situation. the music was quite loud at the party, the house spacious enough to fit too many people for tsukishima's liking. it wasn't his party, of course; if it were up to him, he wouldn't be here in the first place. but something about your sweet, slightly pouty face while you asked him to accompany you was enough to convince him.

and now he was left watching as none other than kuroo tetsurou shamelessly flirted with you, talking and laughing at the other end of the room.

he seemed so irritated he didn't even notice his best friend standing right beside him, the freckled boy trying to contain his laughter upon seeing tsukishima's expression.

'ah, tsukki, you look even more grumpy than usual.' yamaguchi said, a small giggle leaving his mouth when his friend turned to face him, his expression so funny he couldn't contain his laughter anymore. 'i've never seen you so jealous.'

'i am not jealous.'

'right, and my name's hinata shoyo.'

tsukishima rolled his eyes, well aware that yamaguchi was, in fact, right. he was jealous beyond belief, almost to the point of making his blood boil. but it wasn't without its reasons.

you were beautiful, and not only in his eyes. many people from your high school, as well as outside of it, found you attractive, and due to this specific factor, tsukishima was afraid of someone swooping in and taking you away from him. no matter how many times yamaguchi assured him that you're not interested in anyone else, there was always a voice in the very back of his head telling him otherwise.

but still, he didn't utter a word to you about it. ever. he didn't want to show any weakness, brushing it off for the time being and pretending like he's not, in fact, quite hurt.

his eyes landed on you once again, his expression softening a bit when noticing you walking in his direction, a bright, wide smile gracing your face.

'i finally found you.' you said, tsukishima immediately noticing the sparkles in your eyes the moment they met his. an almost unnoticeable smile appeared on his face, his hand gently patting the top of your head, fingers brushing through your soft hair. 'want to go get some fresh air?'

the blonde hummed, nodding in response as you quickly grabbed him by his hand, almost dragging him to the nearest exit with a big smile on your face.

upon leaving the building, tsukishima laid his back against the wall, eyes glued to you and carefully scanning your every move.

'what're you thinking about?'

his head tilted to the side, a small mumble leaving his lips.

'nothing.'

hearing his answer, you sighed, walking up a few steps to stand right in front of him, a semi pouty look on your face. your hands went up to cup his cheeks, immediately scoring a theatrical groan from him, the boy trying to hide that he obviously liked whe  you did it.

'i don't believe you. you seem deep in thought.'

'what were you and kuroo talking about?'

tsukishima's eyes were focused on yours, his gaze gentle. and yet there was something in the way he looked at you that indicated something wasn't right.

'oh, we just talked about volleyball, what he's been doing after graduating high school, and- wait.' you stopped in the middle of the sentence, making a face that ysukishima couldn't quite decipher; something between an excited and mischievous look. she took a deep breath, her grin growing bigger with each second.

'are you jealous?'

'no, i'm not.'

'yes you are! i knew it.'

'no, i'm not.'

'you are.'

'i'm no- alright.' tsukishima sighed, admitting defeat this time. 'maybe i am. but it's your fault.'

you furrowed your brows, trying to understand what he meant by that. tsukishima saw the expression of yours and almost immediately continued talking, a short but sweet explanation.

'you're too pretty, one day someone's going to steal you from me.'

he didn't expect you to laugh in response, standing up on your tip toes to give him a quick, sweet kiss on the lips.

'it's cute.' you said, giggling at your boyfriend as you saw his cheeks flushing a light shade of pink. 'but i'm not going anywhere. there's only one guy in this world who i view as a life partner.'

'and who would that be?' tsukishima asked, a nonchalant tone as he played dumb just to hear the answer.

'you, idiot.'

the blonde boy smiled, and this time it was a genuine one, that would only appear on his face when around you. he ruffled your hair playfully, laughing when you got annoyed about him ruining your hair.

he looked over to the sides, smiling when realized it was just the two of you. he quickly leaned down to kiss you, hand resting on the side of your face.

'i love you.'

you smiled into the kiss upon hearing his whisper, pulling back for a second to look at his face. she wrapped her arms around him tightly, trapping him in a hug.

'i love you too, you know? and i don't plan on going anywhere.'

taglist: @moonswolfie

[kangmoon27]

Control You | Jungkook FF

Pairing: Supreme leader/cult yandere possessive Jungkook x force wife Yn.

Summary: Growing up it was never in his wanting to be the leader of a cult but if it means he could have you and control you then he's up with it.

Growing up, he really hates the fact that he's next in line. He hates the fact that he has to stay here in this kind of society. He wanted to leave but sadly he couldn't, soon the whole society will be controlled by him, everyone will follow him and it's because he's born to be the leader of this cult.

Jungkook never wanted to be part of this but he doesn't have a choice, he had to, he's born to be like this, he's born to be like this.

Of course he tried to leave his birth place but always failed. It's either someone caught him nor his mother will beg him not to leave this place while kneeling on the ground crying.

But something made him stoped from leaving this society and even convinced him to stay. It's not something, it's actually someone.

Choi Yn who's a daughter of one of the cult member. She's born brave and talented who's absolutely gorgeous but everything seems to be wasted if she will just stay here in this toxic society where everyone admires their leader who all did was to brainwashed his people but not Yn.

She's smart enough to understand the wrong doing inside this cult she belong to. She promised herself that one day she will leave this place and have a better life far away from here but it was ruined. Her dream was ruined.

Jungkook became crazy for her. He keeps on following her around like a lost puppy, begging her to accept his proposal to make her as his wife but lady Yn never agree.

Jungkook will surly do everything for her so he made a deal with his father. He said he will stop trying to leave this cult of only Yn will be his bride and without thinking twice his father agreed.

Yn has no other choice but to actually marry him. For the sake of her family she had to do what he says. As simple as that, he's in control while she's under control.

"A beautiful shade of light pink will surly look good on you my lady" he whispered while kissing your neck. He stared at you through the mirror while smirking. He pulled the zipper of your dress up and turned you around.

"See, I told you, it will look good on you. But it would be much better without it." Your husband said while biting his lips. You surely did turned him on, just the way you look so helpless with those pity eyes. The way you never argue and just always do what he says. Being an obedient wife like how he wanted surely keeps on turning him on.

His thumb brushes your lips. He smile at you before pulling you by your waist and k'ssed you. You gave yourself freely knowing what the consequences would be if you didn't.

After some moment he finally pulled away and took a deeper breath after the breathless k'ss you both just did. The smile on his face never vanished knowing he won his battle, he won you.

"Just stay like that and everyone will be safe under my control baby." He chuckles before grabbing your hand and pulled you out of the room.

Everyone is complementing how good looking you were and how lucky you are that their supreme leader chooses to marry you. But that's what they just thought cause if only you could speak up right now all you wanted to do is to shout and course them for talking bullsh't.

You've never got this so much attention before, no one even thinks of taking your side when you tried to asked them to leave this cult. Not even your own parents but now they all complementing you just because you're the wife if the leader. Position really speaks loud and if you don't have it they your voice is useless cause no one will believe you.

"I told you. We loon good together, everyone literally said that my love and it's time for you to believe it." Jungkook whispered and kisses you. His hand travel down your waist and pulled you closer to him completely closing the gap between the two of you after seeing someone approaching you both.

"Long time no see Yn. It's been awhile. I missed you." Junghyun said trying to hide his pain. Your eyes meet his and it begin to filled with tears. You missed him so much. The memories of both of you flashes back and begin playing in your brain. You wanted to tell him how much you missed him and love him but it's too late. Both of you just looked at each in sorrow. The untold and discontinue story between the two of you hunted in regret.

"It's appropriate to talk to someone's wife like that mostly to your supreme leader Junghyun." Your husband said while gripping his hold on your waist. Junghyun bow at him as respect while you're left being shameless and scared. You knew exactly what will happen as soon as you get home.

"I'm sorry supremo. My apology if you think that was ruined." He glance at you while you just looked away not wanting to have another commotion that will burn your husband in anger.

"Please excuse me. I'll take my leave now. Have a great day." With that Junghyun left leaving Jungkook offended and mad.

He feels insecure after facing your ex lover. Knowing you used to love him fully and naturally not by force like what he did just to get you.

"Fck I hate him. Fck it, we're going home." Whisperings those and pulled you away with him.

"Tell me how good daddy is, huh?" His hands circle around your n'ck as he pushed his full l'ngth inside slamming his hips back then forward to make you whimpers and cries

He loved the wet and creamy texture of your c'nt. "So good!" You whimpered again grabbing his biceps to dig your nails inside them.

"The way you fill me up makes me wanna get fcked every single day, hour, minute and second" You looked into his eyes as he did the same.

He attacked your neck while his h'ps kept moving.

You started crying while hugging him, feeling him deep buried inside you made you feel disgusted. You can feel how every inch of his organ touches and feels you. Soon he c'm and thinking it was done Jungkook bang the wall and keeps on going.

He flipped you, facing the pillow as he pushed himself back in your c'nt while his fingers played with your f'lds. His t'ngue l'cked your back and started s'cking on it leaving marks that you unwanted.

"You're mine okay, just mine." He said shot himself inside you. "Sh't knee down and take me like you own me. Be obedient."

A knocked on the door woke you up only to find yourself alone in your bedroom. You tried searching for your husband but he's no where to be found and once again the door knocked. As soon as you opened it your eyes light up but your smile came crushing down realizing how bad thing would be if your seen to be together.

It's you against the whole community. "What are you doing here?" You asked but Junghyun just smiled at you and pulled you into a deep k'ss.

"You send me a letter that you wanted us to run away right then let's go. It's our time now we should leave already before everyone wakes up." Junghyun started pulling you hand and walked out of the house using the back door.

The whole tribe wa quite, it's middle of the night and people are already sleeping. This is exactly what you wanted. Escape from this cult and be with him but something isn't right.

You never sent a message nor letter to him mostly about running away knowing how Jungkook gripped on your n'ck is. You pulled away from Junghyun making him look at you in confused.

"T-this is wrong, I have to go back and you should too! It's his plan Junghyun." The confusion is written on his face. He clearly didn't know what's happening until every one revealed themselves one by one from their hiding place, soon your husband also came out looking so sad and betrayed.

"Was I not enough for you my love? I gave you all even my whole life but you still choose to be with him and continue cheating on me?." Jungkook cried infront of his people trying to get the sympathy of each and everyone of his cult.

"How could you both betrayed our supremo!! You both deserve the worst punishment!!." A woman from the crowd whom you called your mother speak up breaking your heart even more. He's really good at manipulating everyone that's he's already been the victim that even turned the table and make your parents turn on his side.

"N-no no no please mother I love your daughter very much I would be more in pain if I'll lose her. It's all his fault if he'll be gone then me and my wife will never have a problem again. It's all his fault." Jungkook said crying to convince everyone that it's Junghyun's fault.

You run towards Jungkook and started slapping him while he just let you do it to him as everyone started drugging Junghyun away shouting the word "burn him Alive, burn him Alive" repeatedly.

"W-what? No no no no no I love him!! I want him it's my fault." Your mother came to you and slapper you, your body landed on the ground and looked at her in disbelief.

"How could you do such a thing Yn!! All supremo wanted was to give you the best and love that you need. You're lucky enough that he choose you to be his wife and this is what you will do in return?!." She picked you up and pushed you to Jungkook as he immediately locked you in his embrace.

"She's all yours supremo, don't worry we will take care of him." Your mother said before turning her head on you. Soon you and your husband was the only one left.

A hard slap landed on your cheek. Falling on the ground while caressing your cheek you saw him going on his knees and grabbed your chin so hard.

"I'll break you tonight. I'll break you into pieces and mould you again, I'll mould you like how a perfect obedient wife would be cause I'm in control and I controlled you."

[luveline]

I love your KBD universe it is soo adorable!! All the kids are written so cutely! I relate to Avery so much! I was thinking about what if mom is super pregnant and she always wants to be near Steve, like she almost doesn’t even want him out her line of sight. Always wanting to touch him and get kisses from him. Love your blog!!

kisses before dinner ♡ you're pregnant and steve is lovely

There is a silver lining to being eight months pregnant (that isn't the baby at the end) —your husband. 

Steve gets soft. When the physical evidence of your pregnancy becomes unignorable, and then glaringly obvious, he treats you with exceptional care, love and tenderness. You can't get enough of it or him. 

And you're like a lost puppy when he's not near. “Steve,” you say, feeling rather morose about the whole thing, “where are you?” 

“In the kitchen! Do you want something?” 

No, you think, just you. “What are you doing?” 

“Babe, I'm making you and Ave your drinks!” A telltale plink of ice cubes knocking against glass follows. “Don't get up, okay?” 

You squeeze Avery's hand where it's held in yours. “Does he think I'll explode?” 

She giggles, her almond eyes lit with her laughter. “Maybe, mom.” 

“Do you think I'll explode?” 

“No way. You didn't explode before.” 

“‘Xactly.” You'd offer to carry her, or simply scoop her up without asking, but being so pregnant actually does feel like you're going to explode sometimes and you figure it's a bad idea. “Let's go see what he's doing.” 

You and Avery pick over Dove's tea party, abandoned sadly in the middle of the living room, and make your way into the kitchen, which is less hecticly messy but a tad grimy after a long week. Grease clings to the stove top and there's a cherry red stain down the front of the refrigerator. Death of a stolen popsicle. 

Steve sighs when he sees you, too much love around his eyes for any believability when he chides, “You can't sit down. It's impossible.” 

You push yourself back against the counter next to his hip. Avery does the same immediately, giving him a similar look, you're sure. 

He tries to hide his smile with a sip of Avery's too full drink. “Here,” he says when it's at a safer level, “apple juice for you. And ice, princess.” 

“Thank you,” she says, eyes wide as her open palms. She takes it and drinks at it greedily, the sweet taste of concentrated sugar enough to steal her attention. She walks out of the kitchen calling for Beth. “Come have some juice!” 

“That's adorable,” Steve says. 

“You tend to make them that way.” 

He throws an arm against his forehead, slouching beside you, the other wrapping behind your back. “I know. It's exhausting.” 

You spy your youngest under the kitchen table. The girls are fascinated with alcoves and small spaces. If they can fit into a nook, they will, and if they can't, they'll squeeze in anyhow. She breathes through her mouth over a pad of paper with a shard of a crayon in hand, drawing rather intricate things, considering her age. 

“Are those flowers?” you whisper. 

“Think so…” Steve lifts his head high to kiss the top of yours, his arm moving up to your shoulders. He rubs at them like he's trying to relieve a pressure you haven't announced. “You really need to stop getting up all the time. You're at risk–” 

“No, the doctor said if I'm not careful I'd put myself at risk.”

“And what are you doing?” he asks, voice like velvet, smooth and soft as he looks behind your ear. He must see something, petting away a flyaway or a loose strand or something, his touch as tender as his voice. 

You tilt your head away from him. After as long in love with one another as you have been, he knows you're asking for something rather than moving away, and he leans in again to kiss your cheek, rubbing behind your ear all the while. 

“Let's go sit down,” he suggests. 

“In a second.” 

You're terrible lately but it's all his fault. You crave his affection both big and small, all the time, and in every place. You'll be off work any day now and you're sure you'll spend that time soaking him in while he runs ragged trying to get things ready. You've done it before. Steve in the grocery store looking for a hundred different things while you draw stars into the backs of his hand, or trying to fix the baby gate onto the wall while you sit on the stairs making googly eyes at him. 

“My boy,” you say stupidly, wrapping your arms around his neck. Regrettably, he can't continue to dote on you like that, but it prompts him to hug you as close as he can manage. “I love you.” You lay your cheek on his shoulder. “You smell really nice.” 

“I love you too.” Pine, today. Fresh. “I see what's happening.” 

“What's happening?” 

You think he's going to put you down. The baby hormones are making you clingy, he might say, but he doesn't. “You've realised how hot I am. You're late, but I'll forgive you. You know, ‘cos of your predicament.” 

“Thank you,” you say, kissing his neck gently. 

You leave a series of butterfly kisses down the column of his neck before squishing yourself into the curve of it, resting too much weight on him. He takes it all without complaint, hugging you tighter, the distension of your bump a beach ball between you that makes you unfortunately shorter, bending as you are. 

His breath is a pleased sound in your ear, but he doesn't say anything. You hug until you have a strange pain in your neck; he encourages you away from him like he can sense it. 

“You okay?” he asks, thumb under your eye, a millionth sweet touch to add to the mountain. 

“I'm great.” 

“Yeah?” He holds you in place and kisses you. “Love you,” he says, his bottom lip jutting against yours. He kisses you again, and then he pulls away completely, a hand between you both the only tether. “Time to sit down. I'm gonna take your blood pressure.” 

There's no need. If anything, the way he's looking at you might give an inaccurate reading, but you think of the fawning and fretting and the rough of his fingertips digging into the top of your arm and smile, giddy. “‘Kay.” 

“Come on, Dovey, let's go be mommy's doctor,” he calls to Dove. 

In a rather uncharacteristic episode of actually listening, she abandons her crayons and takes his offered hand. He shoots you a quick smirk, as if to say, Yeah, I did that. It's stupid and it makes you laugh, because you couldn't love him much more than this. 

[buckyalpine]

Ex!Bucky fluff

I’m about to break hearts rn but I’ll mend it with a mini life saver. I promise. I was in a silly goofy mood for angst but I can't just leave the ending like that.

Bucky squeezed his eyes shut, trying to regulate his breathing while practicing the grounding methods you had taught him, your soft voice guiding him through his panic attack.

"Tell me what you see around you"

"I-I see the curtains, the coffee table, the bookshelf- uh- the couch" You nodded, encouraging him to continue while his glassy eyes flicked around the living room. He looked at all the things you had hand picked for the space when you moved in together; the empty box he used as a shelter finally became a home after he met you.

"How about something you can smell"

"I-I can smell the laundry detergent on the blanket" It was Bucky's favorite scent because it smelled like lavender and lavender smelled like home. Home was you.

"What else my love" You cooed, "What can you touch"

"The pillow- it feels soft" Bucky's fingers dug into the sofa as he stayed frozen in place but he knew how soft the couch cushions were. After all you had picked them because you were obsessed with how plush they were.

"What is something that's real"

“You’re here with me”

"Oh, Jamie"

"You're always here" Bucky's voice cracked with emotion, the tears he had been holding in falling down his cheeks and staining his Henley.

You smiled sadly, shaking your head.

"I'm not, baby" Your voice was a gentle whisper, wishing you could reach out to cup his scruffy cheek, wiping the steady stream of tears that continued to pour down his face "But I wish I was"

-

Now I had planned on stopping here, insinuating reader had died. however if you don't stand for that, you may continue to read below.

-

Bucky couldn't take it.

6 months.

6 months he'd gone without you, hoping one day it would get easier but the day never came. He hoped the guilt of breaking your heart would balance with the fact that you'd be safer without him but not having you by his side was worse than any kind of torture he'd endured. He didn't think he was worthy of your love but now here he was, craving it more than ever.

He thought his love for you would make him selfless enough to carry on alone just to keep you out of harms way but his walls were crumbling further each day.

He needed you so bad.

He wanted to be selfish.

For his luck, you hadn't gone far. He'd made sure to keep tabs on you long after you left, anxiety eating him alive on days where you did something differently from your routine. Even if you were not together, he'd make sure you were protected.

****

You put away your groceries for the week, shuffling around the tiny apartment you'd moved back into 6 months ago, going through the motions as if your heart hadn't been split into two. No amount of convincing allowed him to believe he deserved you. You shook away that train of thought, a gentle knock at the door breaking you away from the small kitchenette.

You hesitated, debating on reaching for the knife you had hidden under the cupboard, something Bucky had taught you when he insisted on also teaching you self defense. The gentle knocking continued as you unlocked the handle without undoing the chain, gasping when you opened the door.

There he was.

The man you still cried over each night.

The man who still owned your entire heart.

The man who you adored with your entire being to the end of the earth and back. You shakily undid the chain, letting him inside, still too shocked to say anything.

"M'sorry" His voice came out a broken whisper, bottom lip already trembling seeing you wrapped up in a hoodie he thought had lost. "I'm sorry darling"

You didn't realize you'd broken down into tears until you felt him wrap you up, hugging you tightly to his chest, his own emotions overwhelming him.

"Please don't cry" Bucky wept into your hair as he clung onto you, rocking you in his strong arms, "Please baby, not over me, don't cry angel"

"I-I-al-already-c-cried-so-much" You choked and hiccupped between sobs, clinging onto Bucky harder as if he'd disappear into thin air the same way he did each night when you woke up from your dreams. The bed would feel cold and empty, the room too quiet and your heart all alone. "I'll-cr-y-if-I-w-want-t-to"

You let out a shaky huff, your brows knitted together into a pouty frown, trying hard to be angry with him, angry at the fact that he didn't allow you to love him the way he deserved, angry that he pushed you away instead of trying to workout a different solution. Bucky couldn't help but let out a wet chuckle between sniffles, giving you a soft squeeze and tilting your face up to peck your bottom lip which had been jutting out.

"I never want you to cry again love, I'll never make that mistake again" He swore, looking deeply into your eyes, cradling your head against where his heart was hammering against his chest. "Never again sweetheart, I'm so sorry I pushed you away baby, I can't do this without you, I love you so much"

You whimpered at his words, allowing him to lift you up, your legs moving on their own to wrap around his waist, burying your face into the crook of his neck. Bucky carried you all the way back and straight to the bedroom. He wanted nothing more than to hold and cuddle you, craving more with each passing minute until he was as close as he could possibly be. He stayed inside you, smiling against your sweat slicked skin, not bothering to pull out once the entire night.

"I'm finally home" He whispered against your skin, pressing soft kisses to your cheeks while you looked at him quizzically, giggling at his lips continues to dance across your lips, "It's not home without you"

[fl3shm4id3n]

Dₒₚₚₑₗgₐₙgₑᵣₛ

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐝𝐮𝐨 𝐨𝐟 𝐯𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐬. 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫, 𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐨𝐲𝐟𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐞.

ᴘᴀɪʀɪɴɢ: ᴘʀᴏᴡʟᴇʀ! ᴍɪʟᴇꜱ ᴍᴏʀᴀʟᴇꜱ x ꜰᴇᴍ! ᴠᴇɴᴏᴍ! ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

Tw: you and miles are vigilantes, theft, venom symbiote, mentions of death, mentions of getting shot, Symbiote being a little shit sometimes, murder?

A/N: Since I don't really know much about earth 42 Miles, I just came up with an idea on why he is the Prowler.

Masterlist

The first person to know about your Symbiote was your boyfriend Miles, you knew that he was the one and only Prowler, sure he was a vigilante, but he did more than the police had ever done, it all started when his father died. His dad was a good cop, but sadly he was killed while on a patrol and the police station did nothing, so Miles had decided to take matters into his own hands.

You had no idea how the alien had got to you. One day you just woke up and bam, you had an Symbiote on you. Miles could not believe it, he has seen weird shit, but not this weird. Your Symbiote on the other hand, was a little shit, who was always hungry or would just flat out fuck with both you and Miles for its entertainment.

But as time passed, you and your Symbiote got along well, it would still mess with Miles, but your boyfriend was cool with the creature. Then one night that you were walking home late back to your apartment complex, you nearly got shot by a mugger. He had wanted everything that you had, but refused to give him any of the money Miles had given you, then you heard gunshots.

Except, your body had been consumed by a black liquid, almost similar to a shield, then you felt a lot of anger and all sorts of things going through your body, next thing you new, the guy was dead. Ripped apart on the ally. You went back home straight away, wondering what just happened.

You had bumped into Miles, and basically told him what happened. How you were nearly mugged and you basically killed the guy. Miles wanted to kill the guy himself, but he was already dead. Then that was when your Symbiote had told you both its abilities.

Now this caused interest, you basically had some kind of weapon on you. And that's how you began to help Miles and his Uncle, they both helped train you so that you didn't get your ass kicked, sure you had your Symbiote, but it was good that you knew how to fight. You didn't have to help, but you choose to help both Miles and Aaron. At first your Symbiote wasn't convinced, but once you told it that with the extra money you got, you can get them as much junk food as they wanted, they agreed.

Thanks to you and your Symbiote, you manage to get more money, but majority of the money would go to Miss Morales, she worked hard as a nurse, but she wasn't getting paid enough, you believed that she dissevered the money due to her hard work. Besides Bounties, you also stole from the rich and helped the people from your community. Since no one cared about your people, you and Miles made it your mission to help them as much as possible. Sure it was dirty work, but you didn't care, if this was how to help the community you grew up in, so be it.

You and Miles had been on a mission, you as Venom and him as the Prowler. You had stolen some money from this Rich's guy's home, after you got both your shares, you went to drop it off at the orphanage that was near your apartment complex, afterwards you got a call from Aaron, there was a situation and he needed both of you to see what it was. "What do you think it is? Another bounty?" you asked, your face had been uncovered to be able to speak and look at Miles. "I don't know, but it sounds important. Lets go." That was all he said, then you both hurried back to the hide out.

Once you arrived, you crawled in through the window, then you saw someone tied onto the punching bag while Aaron was messing with some stuff. You wanted to get a better look, so with your spiderlike abilities, you crawled on the celling. As soon as you saw the guy, he looked identical to you boyfriend, except he had his hair in an afro and he was wearing some kind of suit, spider suit in particular. Now you were above the person tied up on the punching bag, then your boyfriend made himself present. You also spotted someone else, tied behind him, when you set your eyes on them, you couldn't believe it, it was you! Except, the fake looked more nice and sweet, very unlike you.

He then got down, while you stayed on the ceiling. Aaron then tossed him one of his gloves in which he caught. He looked very intimidating when he got closer to the imposter. "Your dad is still alive?" he asked, making the imposter respond in confusion. "What?" he asked, making your boyfriend repeat himself. "You father, you said he is still alive." he said, this time the imposter whispered. "Yeah.." he said, making your boyfriend let out a small hum. "Who are you?" he asked, a whole minute passed, then your Miles reveal himself to the other one by removing his mask from his face. Your fake couldn't really see any of what was happening, except hear everything, she could feel how everything was happening all at once.

"I'm Miles Morales, but you.. can call me the Prowler" he said, making the other Miles have a look of shock. "If I don't get home, our dad is going to die-" he tried to reason with him but he was cut off by your Miles. "Your dad" he said coldly, making the other more scared. Then this was when you decided to make yourself present. You slid upside down using your web, now face to face to the imposter Miles. Your face had been covered, so all he could see was your sharp rows of teeth and your wide white eyes, making him even more scared.

You smirked and licked your teeth with your long tongue. "I didn't know you had a twin brother, I thought we didn't keep secret from us Babe" you teased, in your demonic voice. You then got a hold of the other Miles face, lightly pressing your sharp talons on his cheeks, causing him to be even more scared. "He isn't my brother" your boyfriend said. You continued to have a good look at the fake. Impressed on how similar he was to your boyfriend, except he looked more dorky and soft. "W-who are you?" he asked again, still frightened.

Just like your boyfriend, you showed your face to him. This caused him to let out a small gasp. "I'm Y/n L/n" You said then you turned the bag around, now face to face to your other you! Just like Miles, she was terrified, even more terrified than Miles. "But you can call me Venom" you said with a smirk, showing her the fangs that you developed over time. It made her even more scared, you saw how she was shivering by the fear.

Taglist?: @sorryi-mtrash

[quintelly]

THE OTHER WOMAN

Pairings- Theodore Nott x female! Reader

Summary- You've always known deep down that you were infact the other woman but you didn't expect it to have it spelled out infront of you

📍First time writing angst so please give tips or suggestions for other fics :3

Angst w/o comfort :3 Masterlist

You knew about it all along but you didn't expect it to hurt as much.

It hurt because you realized you just one of his many choices, you were just lucky you got picked

It really was tiring thinking if you were good enough, thinking if you could even compare to her. You did not in the slightest way, and right now it has never been clearer.

"Teddy, you wanna hang out tomorrow? Ive got a movie day plan for us"

"Dont call me that. And no i can't im busy."

"Oh then when are you free?"

"Fucking hell y/n you're so annoying can you shut the fuck up?"

"Oh sorry"

"God i don't even know why i put up with you"

With that he left the room, leaving you with tears spilling from your eyes.

You've been trying to reach out to him doing anything you could to get his attention. All he did was scoff or walk away.

While you were taking a walk in god knows where you saw a flower thag reminded you of him. Theodore.

You couldn't help but smile sadly because while you're out here thinking of him, he's out there not sparing you a thought.

It doesn't matter though, he'll come around. He'll love you as much as you love him. Right?

.

.

.

.

A day went by, and you've heard just now that he's been in a fight. You suddenly got worried and rushed your way to the hospital wing which people said he was getting healed in.

On the way, you saw him.

'Oh god im glad he's ok.' You thought but then you saw her with him

Oh.

You ran away as fast as possible before they could see you

Then finally your pandoras box has been opened.

It really was pathetic on how you thought you could really be the one for him.

You thought you would be the one to make him smile and laugh like he was right now. With her.

It was pathetic TRULY pathetic.

Who were YOU to make him feel that way? You were nothing, a nobody. You just got lucky

Its was pitiful that YOU thought you could change him, fix him, love him.

You couldn't, you never could and you never will. Because you were a no one.

No one in comparison to him.

He was everything and you were nothing.

You really were never enough and you were a fool to believe that there was a chance, a little chance that you were.

You were a fool, an idiot to fall to his charms, to his sweet whispers, to his promises, to his capability of actually falling in love, with YOU.

You were in a delusional state to think that the both of you would actually work.

Then you realized, every time he would cancle or say he was 'busy' He was probably out with her.

You were that replacable. No.

You were never the 1st choice to begin with.

You were nothing to be replaced. You werent anything to be replaced. YOU werent worth ANYTHING, to be replaced and he made it known the very next day.

.

.

.

While passing through the hall you saw him, with her. Showing her around like a trophy.

It hurts because he didnt even do that to you. He said,

"I want to keep us a secret because i dont want anyone stealing you away from me"

what a fool you were to believe that.

Unfortunatley he spotted you and stared for a while. And to add she noticed.

"Teddy, do you know her?"

"No my love, just some delusional girl that annoyed me before"

Oh.

He never saw you as anything but a plaything. He just liked the attention you gave him. The feeling you gave him.

It was all it was. You were just something that boosted his ego because after all,

Who were you to love him?

.

.

.

.

Fin (?)

[steddieas-shegoes]

the fifth night

for @steddieholidaydrabbles prompt 'hanukkah' (my family is non-practicing, but my great grandfather saltzman very much tried to keep us involved and the dreidel game with chocolate gelt was his way of teaching us something) rated: t wc: 736 tags: non-practicing Jewish Eddie, getting together, first kiss, flirting through the use of chocolate

🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙🪙

Steve hadn't spoken to Miriam in almost ten years, not since his parents had let her go with the excuse that he was old enough to take care of his own needs at the age of 10.

She'd left him her number to call if he needed anything, but as most children do, he lost the piece of paper it was on.

Every year, on the fifth night of Hanukkah, he thought of her and her family, how they'd always made sure he was a part of their celebrations, even if he didn't understand most of them.

"What're you making?" Eddie asked as he walked into the kitchen, hands full of notebooks and folders for Hellfire.

"Latkes. Do you think everyone will want applesauce or sour cream?" Steve said over his shoulder, focused on making sure none of them overcooked. "Maybe I should just get both out. Gareth will probably want ketchup. Dustin, too."

He was met with silence, which was fine, he was used to Eddie distracting himself from conversations before he even got the answer to his original question. It was something he kind of lo-

"You're making latkes."

Steve turned at the tone in his voice, serious, but with the hint of a smile.

Sure enough, Eddie had a small smile on his face.

"Have you had latkes?" Steve asked.

Eddie set his things down on the counter and froze, noticing the mesh bag of chocolate gold coins sitting there.

"Are these for a dreidel game?" Eddie looked up at him.

"I don't have a dreidel anymore, but I figured since it's the fifth night, I could give one to everyone," Steve shrugged.

"I didn't know you celebrated Hanukkah."

"I mean, I don't. Not for religious purposes. But my nanny when I was young taught me about it and always brought her kids over on the fifth night to play," Steve watched as Eddie opened the bag and pulled out a coin. "Have you played?"

"My mom's family celebrated. I didn't really get a chance to do much, but when I was little, she always snuck me extra chocolate coins while the older kids argued about who won or whatever," Eddie smiled sadly. "Wayne tried to teach me, but I was kind of a brat when I first started living with him so I never learned."

Steve walked over to him, placing a hand on his arm and squeezing reassuringly.

"Never too late to learn. Maybe I can find one tomorrow?"

Eddie's eyes widened.

"Wait, did you say Miriam? Miriam Saltzman?" Eddie stood up straight.

"Um, yeah I think so. Why?"

"My aunt Miriam used to be a nanny!"

Steve's eyes widened.

"My Miriam? She's your aunt?"

Eddie nodded. "Must be." He paused, then tilted his head at Steve. "You're the Steve she always said she wished she could take home with her. She loved you."

Steve felt his face heat up in a blush, and that was before Eddie's hands cupped his cheeks.

"You must've been cute if she loved you so much. She barely liked most of the kids in the family," Eddie smirked. "You're pretty cute now."

Steve's lips parted in shock at Eddie's words.

"Cannot believe you're making latkes for us tonight. And giving us gelt? I knew I loved you for a reason," Eddie continued.

For a brief moment, Steve realized that the latkes in the oil would be burnt by the time he got back to them, but it passed quickly when he saw Eddie's eyes dart down to his lips and back up to his eyes.

"Might even give you two coins if you kiss me," Steve whispered.

"Sounds like a deal to me," Eddie smirked as he leaned in to brush their lips together in one of the softest kisses Steve's ever had.

When they pulled apart, Steve ran back to the stove while Eddie watched him, distracted from setting up the table for D&D.

"So, sour cream or applesauce?" Steve asked.

"Oh, I like both," Eddie responded.

Steve turned back to him, disgusted.

"Not together, right?" He asked, already knowing the answer.

"Of course together."

"No more kissing. I take that one back. You're gross," Steve sighed. "Knew it was too good to be true."

"And they say I'm the dramatic one," Eddie rolled his eyes playfully, planting a kiss on Steve's cheek before gathering his things and leaving to set up the table.

[fivestar-outlaw]

New Horizons (Park Seonghwa) (Ch. 3)

Chapter 3: Scorpions

Pairing: Park Seonghwa x Fem!Reader

Words: 3.5K+

Warning(s): insecurities and discussion of insecurities, angst, someone's rude to MC :( (None of the guys), slight hurt/comfort, dumbdumbs in love but dont realize each others feelings

A/N: Here is chapter 3. I think this one is the second hardest to write (The fourth chapter is kicking my ass rn). I'm not sure how I am feeling about this chapter? I had like three/four different ideas for it. Sooo I did a 'spin the wheel' and went with what it landed on for this lol. I feel like this is the weakest chapter but it has some charm. Regardless, I hope you all enjoy <3

Reader is implied to be living in the US bc uh TIMEZONES ARE FUCKY and i didnt realize how reliant i was on mine (PST) when looking up KST

Summary: Attempting an all-nighter while playing Animal Crossing alongside your bias, you didn't expect your turnip prices to be such a high amount... nor did you expect Park Seonghwa to actually accept your offer to sell his turnips on your island.

Series Masterlist | Navigation

"I can't tell her, Woo." Seonghwa sighed.

Wooyoung nearly ripped out his hair at the very similar phrase he has heard you tell him before. The others all groaned as they lounged around in the recording room, 10 minutes before they needed to start recording and re-recording lines for their last song on the next album.

It was now February, two months since Seonghwa figured out his feelings towards you that night you fell asleep on video call. He immediately told Wooyoung the next day he had been right and ever since then, the younger has been trying to push Hwa into confessing. He even tried assuring the older male that you most likely returned his feelings without giving away you told Wooyoung you developed a crush on Hwa just a few days before Hwa told him.

Woo's mind thought back to his conversation with you a week ago.

"I don't think he likes me like that, Woo. No matter how much you tell me." He heard you say with a dejected tone through the call. He had snuck away on his own during practice, having the choreography down before the others. "I mean, I met him as a fan. I don't want him to think I offered him to sell turnips for this outcome."

"I don't think he assumes any ulterior motives, (Y/N)." He said softly. "He speaks fondly of you."

"And that's another thing. He is Seonghwa. He is the super kind, very lovable, handsome, and talented guy who loves to mimic his villagers, build Legos, and is an all around great person. It's hard not to fall in love with him... and then there is me. The average looking, college student working at the local bookstore. I feel so inadequate-"

"Hey. Don't speak like that about yourself." He scolded, his tone and facial expression serious. "You are amazing. You are beautiful. You've been a great friend and we all deeply appreciate and love you."

"Sorry." You sigh. "I just... I want to believe you, but it's hard, you know?"

"I get it, I do. Just... keep thinking on it, okay?" Wooyoung smiled sadly. He could see the self-doubt was still eating at you and his words didn't fully penetrate the self-conscious wall you built up. He just hoped you'd keep holding out long enough for him to try and push Seonghwa into confessing.

"Okay, why not then?" Yuhno asked, exasperated.

"It's clear she only views me as a friend. And I am fine with that."

"You don't know that for sure, hyung." San offered a kind smile.

"Are you guys sure (Y/N) likes me like that?" Hwa gave them each a pointed look. Everyone tried arguing that it was clear to them you did, though the only one who knew for sure was Wooyoung. "I... I truly come to appreciate her and every time we speak I feel like I am falling further and further for her. She is sweet, funny, gorgeous, and I feel my heart is always about to burst when talking with her..."

"He's a love sick puppy." Yeosang teased, making everyone chuckle. The eldest's face adorned a bright blush but he made no attempt argue against the notion.

"It's adorable seeing you crush so hard on someone, hyung." Mingi cooed.

"Why not try and talk to her now? It should be..." Hongjoong looked at the time, seeing that it was nearly 10am for them. "... about 6pm for her. Try gauging her feelings for you and bring up wanting her to visit next month for her spring break."

"I don't know..." The eldest unlocked his phone and had your contact pulled up. Wooyoung immediately moved spots and sat next to Seonghwa.

"Seonghwa-hyung, just go for it. We are all here cheering you on." Jongho smiled softly and the others nodded in agreement.

"And its not like your confessing now either. We've told you the signs, now watch for them." Wooyoung added. The others decided to join in on the call, hoping to catch anything that gave away you had feelings for their friend.

Seonghwa took in a deep breath before slowly exhaling as he pressed the call button. He felt two large hands on both shoulders pat him and give a firm squeeze as he slowly extended his arm to make sure everyone could be visible to some extent. He felt anxiety building up with each ring, waiting anxiously for you to pick up.

They all smile when you finally pick up. You were sitting at your desk, adding what looked like the finishing touches of your makeup on your face. You looked at the camera with a small smile before you looked down, picking up a tube of lipstick.

"Hello boys. Usually you text me before you start a call. What's going on?" You ask, eyes flickering to the phone again before you focus on your hand mirror.

Seonghwa felt Wooyoung nudge him off camera. "I wanted to check in on you, (Y/N), and they all decided to join me."

"Aw, really?" Your face seemingly brightened at the fact and the eldest could feel Jongho on his left excitedly tap his leg.

"Compliment her, Hwa." Hongjoong hissed into his ear, a toothy grin was on his face as an attempt to mask any suspicion.

"Did one of you say something?"

"O-oh it must of cut out." Seonghwa nervously chuckled. "I said you look amazing. Is there a special occasion going on?"

You got a bit bashful and smiled, though everyone could tell it didn't fully reach your eyes. "I got asked out on a date."

Seonghwa felt like he was punched in the gut.

But his face remained soft with a smile.

"Really? Who is the person?" He asked, his voice steady.

The others eyed him in concern but did their best to mask it while on video.

"His name is Charlie. He is in my English course this semester. We worked on some in-class assignments together a few times before he asked me out today."

"I'm happy to hear. Well, we better get going. We are about get to recording." Hongjoong could pick up some shakiness in Hwa's voice. "Have fun and please periodically message me, just to give me peace of kind on your safety."

"Thank you, Seonghwa, and I will." You gave them a wave goodbye before hanging up the phone.

It was silent in the room. Seonghwa slowly lowered his arm, resting his phone and hands in his laps. The smile he had dropped just as slowly as he took in a deep, trembling breath.

"Hwa, are you okay?" Hongjoong hesitated, placing his hand on his friends shoulder.

"Yes. I'm fine, Joong." He asserted, getting up from the couch.

"Are you sure?" San asked.

Languidly, the eldest turned to face the rest. Their breaths caught in their throats. His eyes were full of tears, his lips were quivering as he still maintained his smile.

"I told you guys I am just a friend to her. And I will be fine with that." He sniffled, one tear rolling down his cheek. He hastily wiped his cheek with the back of his hand. "Please, lets drop it and get work done today."

"Of course, hyung." Yuhno spoke with a comforting voice and stood up, wrapping an arm around the older males shoulders. "Lets grab some waters together." Carefully, the taller of the two led Hwa out of the room. The second the door closed, everyone exhaled.

"Maybe...Maybe we were wrong." Jongho mumbled.

"No we weren't." Wooyoung insisted, pulling out his phone.

"Wooyoung-" San tried to speak but the younger male kept talking.

"We weren't! (Y/N) told me herself she likes Seongwa!" The others watched as he called you, pressing speakerphone.

The phone rung a few times when they hear the line click.

"It's just me, (Y/N)." Woo gave the others a look to be quiet. "What was that? What do you mean date?"

"Exactly that, Youngie." You sighed, your voice sounding as if it lacked any confidence.

"But you like Seonghwa... You love him."

"... I do." The others in the room looked at each other in shock, their eyes wide.

"Then why did you agree to the date, (Y/N)?"

There was a moment of tense silence before you spoke again, starting your sentence off with a sniffle.

"Because I can't logically believe he likes me the same way. He just see's me as a friend and I just feel so inadequate to be on any level with him." You faltered. "I don't have any particular feelings for Charlie but I... I just wanted to try to get over loving Hwa."

"(Y/N)..."

"I need to get going Woo. I'll... message you tomorrow." Before he could say anything more you hung up.

The room was just as tense as before. No one knew what to say. Wooyoung pressed his lips tightly together as he kept his own tears at bay. When they heard the door open everyone else started getting up and getting ready to start recording. Seonghwa looked to have calmed down. Wooyoung refused to look at his oldest hyung until he could calm down.

---

After the video call with Ateez and the call with Wooyoung, you decided to try to to push any negative thought aside and finish getting ready. You put together a outfit that wasn't too fancy but still looked nice. You styled your hair the way you liked most for things like this. Overall, despite the heavy heart, you felt cute. You left your place with an Uber, figuring you may have something alcoholic to drink, with enough time to get to the restaurant on time, sending a message to Seonghwa letting him know you were heading there...

You glanced at the clock on your phone for the umpteenth time. It had been an hour since your uber dropped you off at the restaurant, 50 minutes since you were sat down at a table, and 35 minutes since that sinking feeling in your gut that you had been stood up started kicking in.

You sighed dejectedly as you finished paying for the meal you ordered. You may have been stood up but you weren't going to let that stop you from a nice meal. Luckily your waitress was kind and nobody paid you much mind. You felt that any pity sent your way would make you feel worse.

You slowly walked outside the restaurant, your phone out as you get ready to order another uber, when you heard loud cackling. Your head turned to the left and just a few cars down in the parking lot was Charlie in a car full of people. They were all laughing and looking at you.

It felt like a bucket of ice water was poured over you.

Ignoring them and the button to confirm the uber, you started walking in the direction of your apartment. You needed to get away. You could feel your chest tightening with humiliation and panic.

"Oh come on, (Y/N). It was a joke!" You heard Charlie yell but you just kept walking. You heard the car roar with life and could hear from their rolled down window various jokes directed at you.

They all cackled and decided that was enough teasing. Charlie then nearly squealed his tires as he drove away. The tears you kept at bay finally spilled over. You hiccupped as you glanced down at your phone. It was 8pm for you, which meant it would be around noon for him.

You didn't think, really. You just knew you needed to hear his low toned, comforting voice. You opened your phone and immediately dialed Seonghwa, pressing your cell to your ear as you walked back to your place. You felt pathetic but you knew you needed to speak to someone or else you would be a sobbing mess if you were left to stew.

---

It was lunch time in the canteen area at KQ when Seonghwa heard his phone ring. His brows furrowed when he saw your name on the screen. He finished his last bite and quickly wiped off any possible crumbs on his hands with a napkin.

"Didn't she leave for her date like an hour ago?" Mingi tilted his head, everyone else had a confused look.

Seonghwa pressed the green answer button and raised his phone to his ear.

"(Y/N)?" His voice with smooth and low. "You're calling me so soon-"

"Seonghwa..." He heard your voice trembling, making him freeze. His face must of gave away to the others something was wrong, as they stared at him intently.

"Hold on, (Y/N). Let me go somewhere private." He quickly got up fron his seat and wasted no time getting into the hallway where there were less people. "What's wrong? Did something happen?"

"I-I got stood up." You sniffled.

"What?"

"I sat there for an hour looking like a fool. And then... And then I went to leave and I saw him outside in his car with his friends." Seonghwa could feel his blood start to boil with anger. "They laughed at me. They made fun of me." He could hear you take in a shuddering breath.

"Where are you now?"

"I'm walking home..."

"How long until you get back?"

"Maybe... Maybe 10 or 15 more minutes?"

"Stay on the phone with okay? I want to make sure you get home safe." He needed to take deep breaths to stay calm. In the corner of his eye he saw the others leave the canteen, though they stayed back, giving him and you some privacy.

"I just don't get what I did wrong to-"

"You did nothing wrong, (Y/N). Don't start blaming yourself for some asshole's behavior." He glanced to his friends, feel a pinch of confidence. "You are a wonderful person. It's his loss."

There was silence for a moment.

"Did I interrupt work?" You asked in a small voice.

"No, I was just finishing lunch. Did you eat?"

"I had something small after I realized he wasn't showing up." Hwa felt some relief when he heard your voice getting steady. "I'll probably have some ice cream when I get home."

"It better not be mint chocolate chip." He joked and smiled when he heard you giggle. "You really did look amazing, by the way. You should send me and the group chat any selfies if you took any. I'm sure the others would like to see the full look."

"Really?" Your voice was meek.

"I would never lie to you... You truly look beautiful. You always do."

"Thank you, Hwa. I really needed to hear that, especially from you." He could hear your voice tremble again.

"Don't start crying because of me, jagiya." He gently teased, the petname slipping out seamlessly.

"Where are the others?"

"They are watching me down the hallway I'm in." He looked over and saw that they were still there. Wooyoung, San, and Jongho kept their eyes on him while the others were looking at their phones, occasionally looking back at the eldest.

"Am I keeping-"

"I want to be talking with you. They can all wait." Seonghwa huffed, which pulled a giggle from you. He was glad he was able to get you to cheer up, even if it was a miniscule amount. "They are very concerned for you though."

"You can tell them what happened. Woo will bug me when he can until I tell him."

"He is good at that isn't he?"

"Too good." You snort.

There was another moment of silence before Hwa spoke again.

"How close are you to home?"

"Uh..." You pause. "I'm pretty close. I'm passing the park thats nearby. I'll probably be there in two minutes."

"Good." He hummed. "I'm glad you called me."

"Really?"

"Yes, really. Besides enjoying the sound of your voice, I am glad you felt comfortable enough during this vulnerable time to reach out to me. It warms my heart."

"I'm glad you answered."

"For you? Always. Well, unless I am on stage or Joong is lecturing us." He couldn't help but beam when he got you to laugh again.

"I see my apartment. I'm walking up to the door now." Hwa heard your keys jingle in your hand. "I'll let you go now. Thank you for everything, Hwa."

"It wasn't a problem at all. I'll check in on you when I have the time okay?"

"You don't have to." He faintly heard you unlocking the door and then heard the door close.

"I want to." He smiled. "Get comfortable, have that ice cream, and smile for me okay, (Y/N)? I'll talk to you soon. Have a goodnight in case you fall asleep."

"Have a good rest of your day, Hwa." There was a lingering pause before you ended the call.

Seonghwa let out a deep sigh, his face dropping into a scowl as he pocketed his phone. The rest of Ateez took that as a sign to approach him. They nearly froze when they saw the angry look on his face.

"I'm going to need one of you to stop me from buying plane tickets right now." Hwa muttered.

"What happened?"

"Why are you so upset?"

"Is (Y/N) okay?"

Were questions all asked at the same time.

"Let's get back to the recording studio first." Hongjoong offered. It took a lot of restraint for them to not run down the hallways.

The second that door closed to the studio, everyone turned to look at Seonghwa, who still looked pissed off. He sat down on the couch staring past the glass that viewed the recording booth. He needed to take a moment to calm himself down.

"Did something happen to our dear (Y/N)?" Wooyoung sat next to the older male, looking at him with desperate eyes.

"She called me crying, saying her date stood her up." Seonghwa finally spoke. Everyone let out shocked noises and some curses. "That's not even the worst of it. She said he and his friends were waiting for her to come outside to make fun of her."

Wooyoung pulled out his cellphone. "I'm buying you and I plane tickets."

"Count me in, I want to beat that guys ass for making her upset." San sat on the other side of Seonghwa.

Hongjoong quickly snatched Wooyoung's phone.

"Hey-!"

"You won't be making a spontaneous trip to her place and you all are definitely not going off to fight this guy." He said, using his captain voice.

"Come on, hyung. It'll be worth it." Jongho tried bargaining but quickly stopped at the look he got from their leader.

"Seonghwa." Seonghwa's attention was on Hongjoong's face after he called his name. "You already did most of your recording today. Unless you want to hang out with those who still need to record and need to re-record, or do some choreography practice with Yuhno, you should head back to the dorm and spend some time with (Y/N)."

"Thank you, Joong." Seonghwa smiled and gathered his belongings.

"We want to spend time with her too." Wooyoung whined.

"Too bad. You're assisting Yuhno after you re-record your lines." The eldest male smiled at his friends playful banter as he left the room.

He quickly fished out his cell and called you as he walked down the hallway. He was heading to his managers office to get home. He wasn't entirely sure if he had the confidence to confess right now, nor did he want to spring on a confession to you after the night you had... but he wanted to let you know he would be there for you. That he would never let you feel less than or alone. That stupid guy lost his chance and Hwa wanted to be the one treasure you. He was going to confess and tonight would be the start to his plan to do so.

"Seonghwa?" Your voice sounded confused when you quickly answered.

"Hongjoong is giving me the rest of the day off. Do you want to watch a movie with me? Or we can play Animal Crossing? Whatever you want, I want to do it with you." He took in a deep breath. "I'll even pick up mint chocolate chip ice cream and we can eat it together."

You laughed. "Sure, I would love that."

There was a pause in the conversation. Seonghwa was now waiting in front of the manager's office.

"I have a question for you, (Y/N)." He wanted to wait for later to ask his question but Seonghwa felt he had the confidence to ask now.

"What is it?"

"You said you took time off work for your spring break next month, right?"

"Yes, I have the Friday before that week off to Monday after it. Why do you ask?"

"Come visit me." He was shocked he got it out.

"What?"

"Come to Korea and visit me. I'll help pay for the flight and you can stay with us at the dorm. Is the issue with your passport?"

"My passport is fine." You sighed and took a moment before speaking again. "Are you sure, Hwa? Are the others okay with that? What about-"

"Everything will be fine. The others, our manager, and I have already discussed this in length and will probably want to discuss with you later."

"Well..." You didn't speak, which had Seonghwa feeling rejection would soon follow. "I would love to."

"...Is this a yes?"

"Yes it is." You chuckled. "I've been actually thinking of planning a visit after I graduate in May, but honestly, the sooner the better."

"Make sure to message the others about this, they'll be so happy." He smiled, unable to hide his excitement. "I am about to leave the office here soon. I will call you when I am back at the dorm."

"Get back safely."

"Of course. I will talk to you soon."

"And- Fuck!" You swore loudly.

"Is something wrong?" Worry seeped into his veins at how your voice sounded.

"I got stung by scorpion while island hopping."

Taglist: @stopeatread@hee0soo@pocketjoong-reads@seonghwaddict@tridkeys

[phoebepheebsphibs]

Overanalyzing Mikey's fear

This post will be a bit vague, since most of Mikey's fears are connected to an unrevealed piece of lore... but I'll try to explain it as best I can

Living on the streets, Mikey obviously had to turn to unscrupulous means to survive. You may notice that when I refer to Leo, I call him a "petty thief". But I don't refer to Mikey as such, I call him a "con artist". Why the difference? Because Mikey has morals in him. Misguided and backwards, but they are there. Leo's driving moral is survival, so he has no problem taking whatever he wants. Mikey's conscience won't allow him to do that, so rather than steal outright, he tricks people to give him their belongings. His argument? "If they're dumb enough to fall for it, then I earned it and they deserve to lose it!" So, to reiterate, Mikey has morals but they are strained due to his life on the streets.

Mikey wants to be a good person, if only for his family's sake. He wants to set a good example of what a family should be, and what better example than himself? Like the song says, "If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make that change!" So, Mikey desperately attempts to be as perfect as he can. But, perfection is difficult to attain, and it brings a heavy weight on one's shoulders. Even so, Mikey has been carrying that weight since his early childhood...

Leo and Mikey have always been together, ever since Leo found his little brother in the alley. But their experiences in families has been vastly different (as we'll see in the next fear fungus update). Mikey was always the golden child, Leo the troublemaker. Mikey found that being the good kid was more favourable in order to get a family, so that was a big motivator to be perfect as well. It was never enough, though...

NOW ONTO THE LORE. In the comic, Mikey mentions "the teapot", and Donnie refers to it as "the emotionally traumatizing lore drop". I don't want to divulge too much, but I will say that Mikey stole something he never should have, felt badly about it, and when he tried to make amends, things went terribly wrong. Immediately afterwards, he was kidnapped by Draxum. But specifically, let's focus on Mikey's attempt to redeem his mistake. It failed catastrophically, which he did not expect. He truly believed that his coming clean about his misdeed would make it better, but instead it made it worse. The person he wronged? They blew up at him. They were enraged, furious! And he didn't expect that, because he was starting to think of this person as family. And Mikey had always believed that when a person apologizes, you forgive them! But his forgiveness was withheld, and Mikey was crushed by this fact. And so, he ran away... and unknowingly ran straight into the clutches of his creator...

OKAY NOW HERE'S THE BIG ONE. Sadly... I can't tell you the reasoning behind this. But let's look into the psychological aspect of it, shall we? Both Mikey and Donnie view Draxum as a monster, the most evil person they have ever known. Why? Because they both went through the same traumatic experience with him together! I think it is very interesting that while Donnie was afraid he would never live up to his father's standards, Mikey was terrified that he had surpassed them. The most evil, cruel, monstrous person Mikey had ever known told HIM that HE was "wretched, awful, evil, he told me I was a BAD PERSON". Whatever it was that Mikey did... he feels that it is unredeemable, unforgivable, even worse than the "teapot incident".

But to bring this back to a wholesome note -- because if we don't then Dr. Feelings will have my head -- Donnie helped Mikey understand that what he did was not unredeemable. He is not unforgivable. And from Donnie's perspective, Mikey is his hero, simply because he rescued him from a bad situation. More than once... but that's a story for another lore drop!

@boots-with-the-fur-club @daboyau

[shhh-secret-time]

Star Park AU: Kyle Broflovski Edition

-> Moved back to the Valley after graduating and getting his doctorate. (He's essentially where Harvey is in game.)

-> Couldn't find work out i the city so he moved back to the Valley

-> His parents stayed in the city but they allowed Ike to move back with Kyle as long as he agreed to take good care of him.

-> He has files on everyone's medical history and they're organized based on who's the easiest patient to deal with to who he has to literally drag in to his office. It goes: Karen, Wendy and Nichole, Kenny, Craig, Heidi, Tolkien and Scott, Butters, Ike and Jimmy, Tweek, Sharon, Shelly, Bebe, Stan, Clyde, All of the Goths, Randy, and finally Cartman.

-> He makes monthly walks to the Wizard tower to check on the Goths. They've told him before they don't need it because they have magic but he doesn't believe them.

-> Kyle and Wendy work hard to make things easier for Jimmy around town. The mayor fights them over the funding. Wendy has to practically drag Kyle away from fighting the mayor.

-> He's the only person that Scott trusts with his meds, always making sure to pick his medication up.

-> When he's not working he checks in with Heidi over Ike's education, sometimes he sits in and helps out when he can.

Gift Guide:

Loves: Fire Opal, Pomegrantes, Poppy, Starfruit Wine, Artichoke Dip Likes: All Books, Emerald, Coffee, Magma Cap, Tea leaves Neutral: All Fish (Except Shrimp), Beer, All Eggs Dislikes: Radioactive Ore/Bar, Fertilizer, Escargot, Mudstone Hates: Bananas, Banana Pudding, Shrimp, Bug Meat, Roe (Any)

Loved: "A..Are you serious?! Thank you so much!" Liked: "You thought of me? That's very kind, thank you." Neutral: "Thank...you? It's the thought that counts." Dislikes: "Ugh. I don't want your trash." Hates: "Really? What went through your head when giving me this? God...."

Heart Event @ 2:

Kyle is outside with his brother, one of the rare times he's free from working. He's sitting on the bench at the park reading through his medical files. Ike is playing by himself looking a little lonely. Farmer walks up and sees him sadly rocking on the spring rider. Ike tells the Farmer that he misses playing with his brother, it just seems like he never has time for him anymore. Farmer thinks for a moment before walking over to Kyle, who only notices them when they sit down. He greets them with a smile, quickly going back to his reading. >> Do you ever take a break? How can you be on your laptop right now? It's so nice out! (-) >> Ike looks a little sad, doesn't he? (+) If First Option: Kyle gets slightly annoyed, Farmer should know better than anyone here that he can't just stop working. He notes rather dryly he would have thought he'd be free of their lecturing, seeing as he gets enough of it from Stan.

"I appreciate your concern really, but I'm this towns only doctor last time I checked. I happen to like reading outside."

If Second Option: Kyle looks up from his laptop with concern on his face. He frowns when he realizes that he's been ignoring his brother, and how Ike is rocking back and forth with no care. Turning to the Farmer, he expresses gratitude for bringing it to his attention. He feels back for not seeing it himself, he was just hoping to catch up a little on work before he went home. He closes his laptop, putting it to the side, and stands up. Farmer jumps up with them and offers to play with him and his brother!

"Then I hope you're ready for the longest game of hide-n-seek of your life. You didn't have anything planned for the rest of the day right?"

Heart Event @ 4:

Kyle visits the Farmer early in the morning, greeting them while they're walking to the shipping bin. He apologizes for showing up unannounced. He would have called but he didn't think the Farmer would be able to hear the phone from the fields. Farmer doesn't seem to mind which makes him feel better, physically relaxing. Looking past them, he compliments their hard work on turning the fields into an actual farm. Afterwards he goes on to tell them that their crops have made things better even if they don't realize it. Tells them that the fresh food is better for the townsfolk than Jojo's food. >> I don't actually do that much farming. I'm more into fishing or mining. (/) >> Thanks Kyle! It's nice to get a little appreciation! (/) >> I didn't think of it that way...you really think of everything huh? (/) If First Option: Kyle goes quiet, the longer the silence the more his face turns red. Embarrassment dusting his cheeks. Under his breath he says something about the farm at least looking clean.

"At least your farm looks cleaner then Mr. Marsh's. Smells better too."

If Second Option: Kyle chuckles and tells them there's no reason to thank them! He's in the same boat sometimes and that even now he's here's to do his job. He wonders if anyone else has been out this way yet?

"I just realized you haven't had a checkup with me yet. Swing by the clinic okay? I don't want you to get sick."

If Third Option: Farmer turns the table on them, Kyle gets flustered over the small praise. At least he takes it as praise. He scoffs, telling them to stop being so humble. Being a Farmer is hard work and they should realize the good they do.

"Please. Not just anyone can get Cartman to eat a vegetable. You're good at what you do!"

Heart Event @ 5:

Next time Farmer walks into the clinic they walk back into Kyle's office. He's surprised to actually see them, telling them that he is pleased that he didn't have to drag them in. When Farmer looks at him confused, Kyle tells them that sometimes he has to go and "collect" some of the townsfolk for their appointments. So, it's nice that there's someone else so willing to come in. After a moment he gets a little embarrassed that he started rambling again. Farmer is just easy to talk to, they listen. Before they can comment on the blush on his face, he gets down to business. Kyle opens his laptop and looks up at them, he begins to ask Farmer about themselves, wanting an insight on their medical history.

"Sorry, you didn't come here to listen to me complain. It's just easy to talk to you. A-anyway, before I keep making an ass of myself, lets get started on filling out your medical history!"

Heart Event @ 6:

Farmer is walking from town to the mountains, they can hear faint shouting. Walking closer, they see Kyle and Ike standing next to the mountain lake away from Kenny's house. Ike is sitting on the wooden bridge with his face in his hands, looking more and more upset. When Farmer gets close enough to hear what they're saying clearly, they overhear what the argument is about. Kyle is upset that Ike's grades are slipping, telling him that he needs to put in a little more effort in school. Apparently, he's been blowing off his homework and Heidi is having a hard time getting him to pay attention in class. Ike complains that all Kyle ever talks to him about is how he's doing in school and his stupid job, that he doesn't care to ask Ike about anything else. He asks him when was the last time they did anything fun that didn't require the Farmer having to all but pull him away from work. Ike cuts Kyle off before he can rebuttal. Shouting something about how he's acting just like their mother and he's supposed to be his brother, not his parent! Kyle gets upset and snaps back at him, telling him that he won't apologize for caring about Ike's well being and he wouldn't have to act like their mother if Ike just grew up a little. This makes Ike tear up, he stands up and shouts that he should just go back to the city then. Kyle stands there watching his brother storm off, leaving him alone next to the lake, he looks destroyed. Farmer walks out from where they were hiding, and when Kyle doesn't get upset that Farmer was listening in they know he's really torn up. It takes him some time but he eventually address them, telling them that he never meant to fill the role of a parent. He knows he's hard on Ike, he just wants to see his little brother grow into the best version of himself. The Valley is good to him, better then the city was. He knows it's good for Ike too.

"Am I being that overbearing? I mean...I'm in charge of him. I promised Ma that I'd look after him! I'm not asking for much right? Just for him to apply himself more!"

>> Maybe you're not as right as you think you are. (-) >> Does he know that? Have you told him how you feel? (+) >> I don't think you're really listening to your brother. (+) >> Lighten up Kyle, he's just throwing a tantrum. He'll get over it. (-) If First Option: Kyle looks up with a flash of anger in his eyes, he can't believe what he's hearing. How could Farmer say something like that? He thought they were friends! As Kyle storms off he glares at them.

"Jesus Christ, if you talk to your friends like this then I'd hate to hear how you talk to people you hate!"

If Second Option: Kyle thinks on both Farmer and Ike's words. Like he's replaying the whole thing in his head again. When was the last time he talked to Ike about how he feels? About anything that wasn't him being a hard ass.

"No...I guess I haven't. Ugh I'm an asshole, he deserves to be a kid. I really do sound like our mom. Thanks for listening again Farmer."

If Third Option: Kyle's brows furrow, he wants to be upset but Farmer's right. He makes his frustration known and somehow in the same breath is grateful that Farmer said it. He tells Farmer that this isn't the first time their stubborn attitudes have clashed. Something they both get from their Mother.

"I think if you were anyone else I would be furious but...you're right. It does make me feel a little better to know I'm not the only one who's stubborn. I'll apologize to him in the morning. Goodnight and thank you Farmer."

If Fourth Option: Kyle snaps as that comment strikes a nerve. He goes to yell again but he just stops, closes his eyes, and takes a deep breath. When he opens his eyes he looks past them and wishes them a good night. Leaving them alone because just the thought of responding to that is exhausting.

Heart Event @ 8:

It's late, later than Farmer realized. As they go to leave the mines, a group of Shadow beasts corner them. It cuts to them limping out of the mines. Beaten down and exhausted, they collapse against the side of the mountain. The last thing they see is Kyle running over to them and the dim light of a flashlight. When they wake up again, they're laying in one of the beds of Kyle's clinic. Their wounds are bandaged and cleaned. Looking over in a daze, Kyle's eyes meet theirs and there's a look of relief. He closes the first aid kid sitting next to them, picks up the medical tools and puts them away. Farmer can hear him breathing deeply, like this is the first time he's able to. Eventually he breaks the silence, speaking as softly as he can. He scolds them for being reckless, and that they're lucky that Ned was nearby to hear that fight. Kyle stops in the middle of his lecture, catching himself doing it again. Lectures are the last thing Farmer needs right now, they need sleep. Farmer just smiles and shakes their head at him and it almost makes Kyle laugh. He can't believe the energy they have, how they're even awake right now. He promises to keep them company, that he'll be right here for them when they wake up. Time passes again as Farmer drifts back to sleep, when they wake up again they see Kyle asleep in the chair next to them.

"Do you have any idea how worried I was?! Seeing you bleeding out in the dirt like that! I know you can be more responsible then that, what were you-.... no I'm doing it again. I'm sorry. Look just get some sleep, you need to rest." - "What? I'm not going anywhere, someone has to look over you and make sure you actually get rest. I swear I'll turn my back and you'll try and get out of that bed."

When given the bouquet:

"!! Y-You're not fucking with me right? This isn't just some cruel prank? ...Then of course I will- be your partner that is!"

Heart Event @ 10:

Farmer walks outside of their house to Kyle sitting on their porch. A picnic basket sitting next to him, a bottle of wine sticking out of the basket, and a red-checkered blanket tucked neatly inside. When he hears the doo open he perks up and stands up quickly. With a grin on his face, he greets them with an energetic good morning. He holds up the basket telling them that he wants to take them out. The day is beautiful and he intends to spend as much of it with them. Farmer agrees, leaving the farm going south past Tegridy Farms. Kyle takes them near the cliffs overlooking the ocean. The two sit there enjoying the picnic that Kyle's put together. When he sees how happy Farmer is with the food, he goes on to tell them that he learned how to cook from his Mother. The conversation leads him to ramble about how he was the only one who could cook in the friend group for a while. That Stan used to beg him to make dinner so he didn't have to eat with his family. Farmer continues to just look happy with everything. Good food and getting to listen to him talk about his best friend, watching as he lights up! Then they feel a rain drop hit their forehead. Looking up, the two se as the sky starts to darken and rain clouds begin to roll in. Immediately Kyle throws his jacket over the Farmer and urgently moves them towards the trees. As the rain starts to come down harder, Kyle looks so disappointed. Farmer takes their hand giving it a little squeeze, breaking down that wall of anxiety. He lets out a sigh, expressing his frustration. He tells them that he wanted today to be perfect, now it's ruined because of the rain. Farmer laughs and pulls them down, planting a kiss on their cheek. Kyle's face turns red from the sweet action. He goes to kiss them back, to return the kiss, but as he does water drops down from the top of the trees. They're both soaked now, water clinging to their clothes. Kyle looks down and just laughs. He wraps an arm around them and pulls them in for a kiss. Pulling away, he brushes his fingers across their face and whispers.

"You always find a way to make things better. I don't feel like I have to be perfect all the time, that it's okay to mess up because I know you'll still love me. My worries just seem to melt away. I love you so much."

Heart Event @ 14:

Ever since Kyle moved in he's slowed down, taking better care of himself. No longer piling too much on his plate, so it surprises the Farmer to se him falling back into old habits. Kyle is pacing around the house in a huff. Ike tells the Farmer that their parents called and that they're making a surprise visit soon. Kyle stops his frantic cleaning for just a moment to stress how much he hates this. He's worried that they're going to be mad because he didn't invite them to the wedding, even when they already reassured him that they're not. Farmer questions why they're coming, which Kyle just sighs and tells them that they want to meet his partner. Farmer reassures Kyle that everything will be fine, that they can't wait to meet his parents. He just grumbles and tells them to hold off on that excitement. Once again Farmer calms the man down, Kyle takes a deep breath and watches his beloved partner get to work. Between the two of them and Ike, they're able to get everything together. Just as dinner is finished, Kyle's parents arrive. Kyle introduces the Farmer to his parents who immediately start gushing over them. The dinner table is set and soon the entire family is sitting around the, making small talk. Sheila starts asking Farmer a list of questions, trying to get to know them. Why did they become a Farmer? What drew them to the Valley? >> Honestly? I needed to start over. Grandpa gave me a second chance and I guess I just fell in love with this little town. >> The city life was too loud. I needed something quiet and easy. >> The Valley needed help! I couldn't just ignore it! If First Option: Sheila smiles and puts her hand on her chest. She tells the Farmer that it's incredibly sweet of their grandfather to look after them. She thinks it's great that they love the town that Kyle grew up in! If Second Option: Sheila doesn't agree that the city is that bad, but she goes on to tell the Farmer she grew up a city girl. She does agree that city life can sweep you away if you're not careful, she's glad the Farmer taught Kyle to slow down. If Third Option: Sheila isn't quite sure she understands what Farmer is trying to get at, but if it's what drives them then who is she to argue? She's just happy that Ike's grades have improved and that Kyle is happy. Either way dinner is lively, once they're finished they thank the Farmer for everything. For taking care of their sons and welcoming them into their lovely home. Sheila admits that she was skeptical at first but after seeing how Kyle looks at the Farmer, she's wholeheartedly approves of their marriage. They leave with a quick hug, letting Kyle know that they'll be staying at the tavern for a few days before going home. As they make the trip back to town, Kyle wraps his arm around the Farmer and smiles softly.

"They really like you, not that I had any doubts they wouldn't. You're amazing. I always knew you were, ever since you moved to this town. I'm just glad they love you almost as much as I do."

Random Marriage Quotes!!

"Good morning my love. Yeah... that still feels weird to say but...I kind of like it. Waking up next to you is everything." "Please make sure you're being careful when you go out. I'm not going to stop you, just come home to me. Please." "Look I love you, but please if you have to go to the mines...shower before you come to bed. Shower with you? That-...isn't a bad idea." "Read up on how to take care of crops on my lunch break! I hope you don't mind that I already watered the plants for you!" "Ike really likes all the animals, he actually woke up before to feed them all!" "Do...do you think my hair is stupid? Cartman said something about it today and I know I shouldn't put merit in what he says but...You like my hair? And my nose? But I didn't- God you're too good to me." "I always had this fear of getting married, I was afraid that I'd end up like my parents. They're not bad just...never mind. Just thank you for being my partner." "Hey, take this medicine with you. If you get into trouble it will help. I don't care if it tastes bad! I don't want to find you passed out again!" "I'm taking Ike over to Kenny's today, he wants to hang out with Karen. Feel free to swing by when you're done doing what you need to do! The guys would love to see you." "You know I love you right? And I'll tell you it as many times as you need. You make it so easy to love you that I'm worried I'm not enough."

Tag List: @hunnysnoops

[raayllum]

Anyway Runaan-Callum parallels slap so let's talk about 'em (semi requested by the lovely @hoothalcyon)

Although Runaan and Callum are about as different presentation wise as they could possibly be, especially in Arc 1 - one a stoic, serious Moonshadow elf sworn to duty over family, who believes wholeheartedly in a dastardly human enemy, and the other a goofy heart-on-his-sleeve prince who always believes elves may be worth reasoning with - they do have, at their steely cores, have a fair few similarities. This is largely in their respective relationships with Ezran and Rayla.

For starters, in spite of Callum's idealism, he does have a more skeptical core (just like Runaan) both in regards to potentially listening to / trusting 'former enemies' and in trusting the people they love with possibilities they've already deemed impossible.

Runaan: No. Humans are liars. This is a trick and a trap. You're a fool, Rayla.

Rayla: Just... trust me. Callum: Right, right. That makes sense. Since we go way back. Like that one time, ten minutes ago, when you chased me through the castle trying to stab me. Haha, good times!

You have Callum and Runaan both being terse/angry at Ezran ("Ezran, you don't get it, do you? Why do you think they're sending us away? Because they're coming to kill him!") and Rayla ("Of course he was afraid, but you had a job to do! You let him live but you killed us all") for not seemingly getting the severity of the situation they've found themselves in, even though Callum told Ez that everything was okay when the younger boy expressed doubts earlier, and even though Runaan didn't listen to Ethari's cautioning that Rayla wasn't ready for this sort of mission.

Runaan and Callum are both also lied to / betrayed by people they trusted, leading ultimately to disaster once the illusion has been revealed; for Runaan, it is his adoptive daughter, and for Callum, it is his childhood friend(s) in Claudia and Soren. And both turn away from each girl in the end, leaving them staring off sadly as Runaan and Callum devote themselves to the missions they believe have to be done that Rayla and Claudia were attempting to derail.

Callum and Runaan also believe that Rayla can be better than how she's presenting herself ("Why? You know this is wrong" / "You're better than this") even if they have opposite ideas of what 'better' is. For Callum, it's Rayla embracing her compassion ("You have a big heart") and for Runaan, it's largely shutting it off ("Your heart isn't hard enough to do whatever it takes"). Which is why I think it's nice that they are both the ones who label Rayla's said compassion, initially in Callum's case, as hesitation.

And of course, in Chasing Shadows, they are the two voices inside Rayla's head, helping her retain her identity (to a degree with Runaan, who is also paralleled with RedFeather in spite of the distance and/or fraught dynamic between them, as well as being the two people to pull her out of the water from near drowning.

“An island is land,” said a voice in her head, so playful and cheeky she could almost see his smile. [...] “A hidden dagger,” Rayla understood. It was something Runaan had told her time and time again: “a defenseless enemy may keep their daggers hidden.”

I love you. I wish I could say that we will see each other again, but I don’t know if we will. I hope so. 

Callum can also be determined bordering on stubborn, like Runaan (a trait many of the main cast share, given the adversity of their circumstances; "We have to keep going, no matter what" from 1x08; "Justice will not be denied" from 1x03) but he is ultimately more willing to change. He can be stoic (in S4) if not very well, and has his own self sacrificial tendencies, particularly if that means protecting his loved ones: "We'll be stronger as five" now that Runaan knows the mission will likely require sacrifice and "I need you to kill me" now that Callum knows Aaravos has turned him into a threat. Given the trouble that magic has recently brought Callum, I wonder if we will start to see him have similar doubts as Runaan in Bloodmoon Huntress over being an assassin, of "I wonder if perhaps I shouldn't have become..."

However, as Ethari lays out in BH: "Souls like that feel called to protect everyone as fiercely as those they hold close. I've known since we met that this is Runaan's calling, that nothing will deter him from his duty." When Runaan is offered freedom and a chance to go home to Ethari - to free himself and return to his loved ones, to ease their suffering - he doesn't take it. It is the end of his episode in which he states, "I will never help you," allowed to hold fast. (Even though, if he had been freed, he possibly could've taken the coins holding Lain and Tiadrin with him as well, if through force.)

But Callum has his "I will never help you" at the beginning of his episode, so it's unsurprising from a structural standpoint that Callum's vow doesn't hold (and doubly unsurprising from a characterization standpoint) since as we all know, Callum "values those close to him more than anyone or anything."

Now, we don't know what Runaan would've done if one of his loved ones' lives had been on the line, as opposed to Viren just further threatening his own safety, but he was willing to sacrifice the lives of all of his assassins (granted that they were equally willing of the risk), so there's a little grey room. We also know that Finnegrin had to meet a challenge similar to Viren's: Callum didn't fear his own lack of freedom, torture couldn't break him, and he wasn't scare either when it seemed he was assuming he was the one going to be fed to the giant sea serpent. So Finnegrin had to find something that Callum, likewise, would "fear more / find worse than death" and he did:

Magic is very important to Callum and it's what he absolutely wants to pursue, but he's not willing to risk his life or heavily bend his morals just for his calling (2x04, 2x02, 2x08); he is willing to do those things for his loved ones, time and time again (1x01, 1x02, 2x07, 3x09, 5x08).

The fun thing is that we see this sort of language (Finnegrin's whole thing about fair prices) reflected in BH with Runaan as well, specifically with Kim'Dael holding an innocent Skywing boy hostage and using him as leverage for Runaan to sacrifice himself (which, given Callum's subsequent dark magic use, is also a level in 5x08, because he's also willing to sacrifice/risk corrupting himself further to save Rayla):

Which we could see Callum consider if there's something that requires him to do dark/dangerous magic again in S6, since in his mind, he's already 'tainted' and stained by dark magic, just as Kim'Dael taunts Runaan over it (and those sweet assassin-dark mage parallels continue to persist):

I know you're brave. The kind of brave that would sacrifice your life to save the ones you love. Let's make it simple. Give me your blood, assassin, and those two you came with walk away free. You've killed, but they haven't. They can still have long full lives.

(I do still lean towards this ultimately coming back around for Rayla first and foremost because BH basically exists to hold up a sign like "Runaan and Rayla are similar" / her paying the price motif and sacrifice, but I do think ultimately both Callum and Rayla will end up in a situation similar to Runaan's above whether in structure or in how they process it.)

Where are all these parallels going, besides Callum being the one to free Runaan and co. in S6, and Runaan possibly encouraging the "You need to kill me" idea at first? No clue! But they're fun either way.

Other fun misc. parallels:

Guiding moon (Ethari and Rayla to Runaan and Callum respectively, parallel, maybe)

And last but not least, the parallel that gave me the tag for their foils / dynamic in the first place

[sasusakucoded]

tw: suicidal thoughts

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Sarada: I wish I'm mentally strong like you and Papa.. *frowns*

Sakura: *pats her back* I'd say your Papa's mental fortitude is the toughest..

Sarada: Really? I think so too.

Sakura: Don't get me wrong though.. Mental toughness doesn't mean he didn't have suicidal thoughts—

Sarada: Wait, he had? I mean I would too if I experienced everything he went through.. But he's.. He's Papa.. He's Uchiha Sasuke..

Sakura: I think everyone thought the same.. Even me, to be honest. He's an Uchiha. He must be strong in all aspects.. *smiles sadly* But then, he was also just a boy. An orphan.. He felt alone so many times..

Sarada: Whenever I think of how Papa suffered when he was a kid, I feel like my issues are too trivial.

Sakura: No, don't think that way. Everything you feel is valid. It doesn't need to be something grand to feel overwhelmed.. You know what, why don't you talk to your Papa instead? He's well versed to talk about these things.

Sarada: I'm shy.. And like what I said, my problems are nothing compared to Papa's.

---

Sarada: *hears knocking*

Sasuke: May I come in, Sarada?

Sarada: Yes, Papa!

Sasuke: *hugs her tight*

Sarada: Pa—pa! You're squishing me.

Sasuke: *not letting go* You are my child after all.

Sarada: Papa? Wait, did Mama—

Sasuke: *looks at her face; nods* Whatever you're feeling, just know that it's normal.. If you're willing to share it with me or Sakura, please do so.

Sarada: Papa.. Mama said y-you had— You had—

Sasuke: Suicidal thoughts?

Sarada: *nods*

Sasuke: Yes. I think the first time I had it was when I was 8. How was I supposed to live when the very reason for living was gone?

Sarada: Papa..

Sasuke: It's weird because sometimes I felt okay.. But if I saw an opportunity to end my life, I was having second thoughts. It was the easiest way out, you know.

Sarada: B-But you're strong, Papa. You were able to fight those thoughts off.

Sasuke: Because I was blinded by revenge too.. It's funny because both are negative, but the latter kept me going.

Sarada: Are you still— Nevermind.

Sasuke: I told you, you can ask me anything, Sarada. Were you asking if I'm still having those thoughts now?

Sarada: Yes.. Sorry Papa..

Sasuke: I haven't.. After my fight against Naruto in the Valley of the End, never again.

Sarada: Lord Seventh?

Sasuke: *nods* I lost that fight.

Sarada: You were both beaten up, right? Wasn't it a tie?

Sasuke: Yeah. But, I lost to Naruto in the sense that I finally accepted that we had bonds.. And that I didn't want to cut them at all.

Sarada: *smiles*

Sasuke: I really wanted to die at that moment. I had nothing to lose, but had everything to gain. For one, I'd be with my family finally. I'd be with the people— the only people who truly cared about me, or so I thought.. I didn't have to think about how the others would react if I return.. I didn't have to explain myself. But..

Sarada: But?

Sasuke: But Naruto made me realize that there are still people who care about me. Him. Sakura. Kakashi. Even the others. They're not my blood relatives but they're my family.

Sarada: That pushed you forward?

Sasuke: That was enough to make me live and try again..

Sarada: ...

Sasuke: But believe me, Sarada. I had many suicidal thoughts before that. I didn't care if I was being reckless because whatever happened, I was ready. If I succeeded, good. If I get killed, good..

Sarada: Who do you talk to during that time, Papa?

Sasuke: No one. I never told anyone. Actually, I only told your mom when we're already adults.. It was hard.. But once you have a person who will listen without judgment, it will be a lot easier. Sakura is my person.

Sarada: *smiles and nods*

Sasuke: And of course when you were born, I had more reason to live. I'd do anything to keep myself alive. I promised myself that I'll be with my family, whatever it takes.

Sarada: Thank you, Papa.. *smiles*

Sasuke: It doesn't have to be us, Sarada. But know that your mom and I are always here for you.

Sarada: *smiles widely*

Sasuke: That smile.. I hope that's a happy smile. Sometimes the smiliest people have the worst problems.

Sarada: This is a happy smile, Papa! I promise!

Sasuke: *pokes her forehead* You're young and you're allowed to be sad, anxious, scared.. But remember, you don't need to carry the burden all by yourself. *gets a small notebook from his vest; and gives it to Sarada*

Sarada: W-What's this?

Sasuke: It will be our communication notebook since we're not good at verbally expressing our feelings. You write down anything in your mind. Your mom and I will do the same.

Sarada: *opens the notebook* Oh, you've written something already.

How's my dear Sarada? Everything will be alright. I'll cook your favorite food in the coming days to boost your morale. I love you, dear! —Mama

Sarada, I'll be here until you feel better. It doesn't matter if I need to decline a number of missions. Always remember that you're an Uchiha (the best so far) and this is nothing. —Papa

Sarada: *starts crying; gets her pen and writes down*

Mama, Papa, you have always been my rock. You don't know how much your words mean to me. I promise to be more open with you. I will keep fighting like a true Uchiha. I love you both so much. Thank you!

Sarada: *gives it to Sasuke; hugs him*

Sasuke: Let's show it to your Mama?

Sarada: Yes!

[nanabansama]

Spoilers for Chapter 110

Did you notice that Mitsuba, School Mystery No. 3 whose name literally contains the kanji character "3", died 2 times and is now dying a third time!?!?! WELL, I DID!!!!

Sorry, I've just seen others theorizing about this for a while and always thought it was such a sadistic idea and I can't believe it actually happened... AIDAIRO!! AIDAIROOOOOOO!!!!!!!! *wordless wail*

If that wasn't bad enough, AidaIro had him meet Mitsuba Sousuke's mother and, unbeknownst to her, her son is dying all over again RIGHT NEXT TO HER...!!!! Keep in mind that she doesn't even know he's here, either. And now she may never even get to know this new version of him!!! NGYAAAHHH!!! Yet another example of the sadistic torture AidaIro enjoys putting us through...

Anyway, a moment of respite before I start yelling again: I enjoyed comparing my prediction posts to this chapter! I was right that Tsukasa would win, but...well, I think I got everything else wrong? HAHA. But seriously, I never could have fathomed the plot twist that Mitsuba has no yorishiro, effectively meaning that Tsukasa is literally STEPS away from completing his goal and destroying himself, yet here we are. I'm beginning to think the end of the series is closer than any of us could have anticipated... (it's almost sad to think about!)

But sadly, even though Hanako is trying his best to get through to Tsukasa, Hanako is still shackled and effectively powerless to stop him if he gets to Nene. Maybe there's some sort of schoolmystery-yorishiro power dynamic going on where Tsukasa is always weaker than Hanako, but with the state he's in now, I think Tsukasa should be safe to just shove him off...

That said, this move was so well-played! Hanako, stripped of power, could not stop Tsukasa with force alone, so he instead had to use the force of gravity to force Tsukasa on the ground and pin him with his knife and body. I still don't think this is enough to stop Tsukasa entirely, but it is enough to give Hanako time to plead with him. It also restores my faith in the fact that Hanako is a good fighter.

Anyway...I feel like everyone's already wibbled and wobbled about the ending of this chapter by now, but I just want to say I am SO GLAD Amane communicated his feelings to Tsukasa. That he said "i love you" in every single word he said, even if Tsukasa didn't hear it. It was so heartwarming, since Amane almost never does this. He always either bottles things up or shoves his feelings to the side until they're suddenly wrenched out of him and he's forced to care again. And while he was only able to do this because he was literally seconds away from losing Tsukasa, I am SO HAPPY that he could even do it all.

But unfortunately, he still couldn't say "I love you". He had to settle for the tsundere version. (Siiigh...)

Yet even if he did I'm not sure if Tsukasa would be convinced...That boy is soooo traumatized by the time Amane pushed him as a child, it's actually concerning. (._.`)

All I'm hoping for is that something happens to stop Tsukasa. I'm not emotionally prepared for him to go yet!!! But even if he does go within the next chapter or the next few after it, I just hope he goes out knowing he was loved. Like Sumire did. 💔

It feels like each new chapter has been more exciting than the last...if we get a Yugi backstory chapter next month I think I might actually die of happiness. Goodbye everyone...I'm going to a better place... 👼

I hope everyone enjoyed the chapter as much as I did!! This was such a good one I'm sure I'll be back later to tack on more thoughts. Thanks for reading!!

[tulipsforvin]

‧₊˚✧RIDE TO STRANGERS✧˚₊‧

William J. Moriarty X F!Reader

Summary; William & you are riding a train after spending a vacation with each other in a faraway place. The two of you have decided to part from each other after a relationship of six years. The following entails the conversation (name) & William had before going your seperate ways:

The skies above are scowling, rumbling and gray, thunder ready to strike as the rain hails down below against the roof of the train violently. The dimly orange lit cabins inside the train tremble faintly while the train moves gingerly over it's tracks at a slow, languid pace.

You look down at your palms which are set atop your lap while William has his head ever-so-slightly tilted to the side, gazing over your facial features with a sad, thoughtful expression; eyebrows furrowed & expression pinched.

“Must we truly go through with this?” William speaks first, gazing at you sadly yet with eyes that still hold adoration and love for you.

“Yes.” You reply curtly, blinking rapidly in hopes to push the tears back in which now happen to be stinging your (eye colour) eyes.

“(Name), I don't understand. Was it something I did or said? Is it me, darling? I promise, I'll change, so if you just—” William attempts to speak, voice breaking at the end; soft and tender before he cuts himself off.

You look up at his sudden interruption of himself and find William's lips pressed into a thin line, eyelids shut tightly.

Your gaze falls to his neck from where you see his adam's apple work up and down his throat - presumably to swallow the lump that had grown in it.

When he speaks again, his voice is quieter, barely comprehensible & not very audible. “Please.” He whispers rather quietly.

You don't notice the wetness against your cheeks until William reaches over to brush his thumb lightly against your cheekbones. You slap his hand away & he looks at you with an expression of hurt.

“Please, heart of mine. We can work this out we can. I promise. Please reconsider, darling. Everything was fine at the hotel, wasn't it? Even at the beach, too. (Name), plea-”

It's not him who cuts himself off this time. It's you, looking at him with a bitter expression.

“Everything was fine, William.” You scoff, shaking your head at his words. “Until that noble assassination happened. It was you, wasn't it? You can't even spend time with me, even while we're supposed to be at vacation. Your mind always travels back to that- that horrendous mission of yours! There's no place for me in your heart & mind, that is evident.”

William's eyes turns away from you shamefully, looking around the cabin.

“I'm sorry..” He whispers quietly. “This won't happen again, so please-”

“It's a done decision, William. I'm breaking up with you.”

“Please, (Name).” William's jaw tightens, gaze downcast. You shake your head at him.

“I know of your suicide plans. I overheard your conversation with your brothers. Did it never cross your mind, William, that when we first entered a relationship, it would hurt me deeply when you were going to kill yourself at the end of your mission? Did you never think how absolutely selfish that would be? Leaving me all alone? I've promised my life to you, you haven't.”

You're practically yelling at him now, voice growing louder in volume. Tears flood you, dripping down your cheeks little by little.

William flinches sharply at your words, biting the inner side of his cheek. "Love.."

“..Why haven't you? Why haven't you promised yourself to me? Was I not enough?” You sob out, the sleeve of your dress working furiously to wipe away at your tears. You didn't want to seem vulnerable. Not now. Not infront of him.

“No! I mean—” He leans forwards, horrified at the aspect of you implying you weren't enough for him. He inhales sharply.

“What I mean is..” His voice becomes softer, quieter, filled with warmth & devotion. “I.. I understand if my hesitation made you doubt yourself, but please believe me when I say that it was never about you not being enough, my love. You are more than enough. You are perfect. Perfect for me, as I am for you.”

You look at him, unbelieving of his words when the train comes to a halt. The train had finally reached it's destination. You'd already made up your mind, after all.

You gather your belongings, letting it drape loosely over your arm and standing up from your seat, looking down at him - only a table to seperate the both of you.

“Goodbye, William.” You tell him, turning your heel.

William's eyes widen, jumping to his feet he follows after you - cabin after cabin; his desperation & panic reaching an all-time high. He shoves people out of his way, trying to reach you, ignoring their hurls of insults at him. Finally, the two of you are out in the open space of the train-station.

“(Name)! Please don't do this to me. Don't do this to yourself. You can't leave me.” He grabs you by the wrist, borderline pleading.

You hurl around, turning to look down at your wrist that he now has in his grip between the two of you. In a flash of anger, you slap him across his face — hard and painfully.

William staggers a step backward in shock but still doesn't let go of your wrist. One hand of his reaches up to rub the area over his stinging cheek, jaw clenching. He exhales shakily before opening his mouth to speak.

“If there is anything left of me, I do not want to lose it. And I do not want to lose you.” He begs you desperately. Pleadingly, Needily.

“Let go, William.”

“I can't. I can't let you go. How can you ask me to let go of you when you're already too well tangled with my soul? Please don't leave.”

“I said let go.” Your stern, firm voice is a stark contrast from his soft one.

You withdraw your wrist from his tight grip harshly and look down at the redness, his fingermarks having left their imprints on your wrist.

“(Name)..” He murmurs softly. “I love you.”

Your bottom lip quivers and William takes notice of this - just like every other small detail he seems to notice about you.

He takes you into his arms, hand softly placed on the small of your back - your own hands curl into fists against his chest when you attempt to push him away.

“I love you.” He says again.

You've broken down into tears; a sobbing, whimpering mess into his arms when he kisses you softly and tenderly, first on your lips, then on your nose, your forehead, your chin - everywhere. Once you've finally calmed down enough, he detaches his face away from yours ever so slightly and pants for air softly.

“I..love you, too.” You murmur. You swear you see his eyes light up for the tiniest of moments before you speak again.

“But there is no future for us, you must understand that. Not if you're going to proceed with your suicidal mission.” You say.

William nods his head somberly, keeping quiet as he listens to you speak.

“You're always harming yourself.” You tell him.

“I am.”

“You're always putting yourself in danger.”

“I am.” He concedes.

“You've lost yourself.”

“I have.” He sucks in a breath, knowing the words that you've spoken to him are true.

“Therefore..” You begin by pushing him away by the chest. He steps back willingly, the same soft, sad frown plastered on his face.

“I will part with you until then.” You turn away, gripping your belongings close to your chest.

William's eyebrows raise in confusion, looking down at his polished Oxford shoes. “What?” He mumbles thoughtfully to himself. When he looks back up at your general direction to watch you walking away from him and the train station, he calls out more loudly to you.

“What- what do you mean? Until when, love?”

You stop waking, not turning to him when you part open your lips to speak to him:

“Find me, when you've finally found yourself.”

And just like that, William regards you & your words with utmost sadness and grief as he watches you dissapear among the crowd in the train station - a lonely tear falling down his cheek.

[theflowerofthecommonwealth]

Power Armor Punch Part Sixty Six

Gardio: I thought I heard some movement on the roof. *tinkering with the pin from his tie. Making it into a tiny knife he can use in self defense*

Lucille: Either that or she ran off again. This is a very common thing with her.

Ma: (Heavy sigh as she leans on the wall) “Yeah, there really was nothing anyone could do when she decided to run off back in the day. She was too fast for her friends and any adult who could spare the time to chase her down, even if they had a car. So we just… let her do her thing and hoped she’d return before dark.” (Small scoff) “Sounds irresponsible of us, I know…”

Teshteal: *shakes his head sadly*

Joyce: (Studies her boyfriends face, returning that somber look as she clutches both of his hands)

Teshteal: Don't worry... The moment I sense she wants to kill me, I'll run as fast as I can. *shrugs with a sheepish but almost forced grin* Not that it'll help much- at least it's something.

Jasmine: (Knows that her biological rapid healing abilities get stronger when she’s in direct sunlight, kinda like she’s a human solar panel. And she heard a doctor in the vault bitching one time about another expensive procedure that was given to her that requires her to recharge under the sun. The doctor was going on how it wasn’t that necessary as she already has other healing factors, but he was ignored and she was pumped with more sedatives and whatnot)

Nick: *checked out into a book he has on file since she's calm. He's keeping an eye on her, though. It can't be all Jas all the time in his head or he'll go mad. Even parents need a break from their kids*

Jasmine: (Curls up against Nick like a kitten who just found a warm and cozy spot under the sun with her back to the light, partly closing her eyes as she does the little kneading motion she always does when she’s content. Her position is inefficient for healing as her most severe wounds are on her front side, but she wants to snuggle right now)

Gardio: *frowns* They didn't at least scold her for running off?

Lucille: *rolls her eyes* I don't think she has enough respect for others to actually LISTEN. I'm almost twice her age and she thinks it's okay to tell me off, swearing included.

Ma: (To Gardio) “Believe me, we tried to get it through her spunky little head that it was dangerous stunt to pull off, but she was convinced that she was fine on her own so it bounced right off her. And as for disciplinary measures, well there wasn’t much they could do when she was already doing all the chores and taking care of her siblings like a mini parent. What more could they add to that?” (To Lucille) “The swearing is new, I’ve never heard her do that before. But telling off other adults she definitely did, especially when she deemed something unfair.”

Lucille: I would say she's rebellious but honestly there comes a time when it's outright disrespect.

Gardio: I'd have to agree... *frowning still at the fact she was left to take care of her siblings despite literally being 9* I shouldn't judge because of what she's been through but so far she seems pretty rude when she's not hiding or running off. *clucks and shakes his head in disappointment*

Joyce: (Still looks so worried for him, a million “what if” running through her head)

Teshteal: *keeps smiling. It looks more and more forced by the second. He wishes she'd stop worrying about him. He's nothing after all...*

Donovan: (Yawns and stretches out on his bed, rubbing both of his eyes out of habit despite having an eyepatch. He blinks, frowning when he remembers the previous nights disturbing events, how he had to try and talk down Rosie…)

Ma: (Nods her head sadly) “Yes, that’s what’s worrying me. She’s not acting like herself at all. Little Rosalinda used to be somewhat reasonable and respectful, even when she had a good reason to rebel or haughtily toss her hair back.” (Rubs her hands together) “Once her mother passed, she got more defiant and distant with us. Instead of at least hearing us adults out, she’d just walk away even if we were just trying to help her process the tragic loss. And God forbid we try to separate her from her siblings for even an hour to give her a rest when they didn’t want to, she preferred to distance herself on her own terms.”

Joyce: (Heavy sigh as she looks to the bed, quickly rushing over to scoop up Gilbert to rescue him)

Gilbert: (Makes several squealing noises in complaint because he was smothered by the two puppies)

Joyce: (Walks back to Teshteal as she pets her little ferret, debating with herself if she should press further or just let it go)

Teshteal: *still forcing that smile even though the voices are rising up again, reminding him of how pointless he is compared to Jasmine. The only reason he was kept alive in the vault was for their sick pleasure. No one should have to worry about someone as pathetic as him... but he won't say it to her. She's already worrying about him.*

Gardio: *furrows his brow with concern at how she changed after her mother's death* That's where it started... *sighs and pinches his nose*

Ma: “Yes... It was terribly unfortunate. Poor kids already had to navigate without their father, they lost him before Rosie was even three....” (Sighs to herself again) "You know, I think it was their somber origin story that gave them extra points to get away with things they shouldn't have. They were good kids with kind hearts in a bad and unfair situation..."

Donovan: (Rises from his bed, gathering his clothes so he can freshen up for the day and go see Jas)

Joyce: (Blinks sadly, putting away all pressing questions despite her fears) “...Should we head down for breakfast now?”

Teshteal: *nods* Yes. Breakfast would be nice. *heads to the door. Feels terrible for making her worry. Feels like he's troubled her too much*

Gardio: That's unfortunately commonplace now a days... *solemn nod*

Lucille: The settlements see a lot of orphans come through... kids and adults a like. You'd think it would be easier before the war to get help for that sort of thing but even then... *sarcastic but pitying scoff* Good luck if you were poor or looked a specific way.

Ma: (Points to her ghoul complexion) “Some things never change with people I suppose.” (Small laugh when several memories come to mind) “Rosie never had a tolerance to that, she’d get right into people’s faces if they dared try to bully her friends or family for their looks or their lack of wealth. And she was the one who passed as something more than just another street urchin.”

Joyce: (Decides to set Gilbert down as she follows him out)

Donovan: (Was just exiting the bathroom when he sees his little sister come out of her room and he smiles warmly at her) “Mornin’ JoJo!” (Nods at Teshteal) “Mornin’ to ya too!”

Joyce: (Small smile at her brother as she walks over to wrap him in a hug) “Morning…”

Donovan: (Sways her side to side as he pats her back) “Did you sleep well?”

Joyce: (Nods into his shoulder) “Mhm, yes.”

Teshteal: *starts to walk down to the kitchen without her to dish them up. He should at least make himself useful*

Jasmine: (Nuzzles under her Dads neck as she breathes evenly, her loose curls partly hiding her face)

Lucille: *quietly nods. Still doesn't like she got away with things so easily to the point she has next to no respect or consideration for others.*

Gardio: *to Ma, reminding her of why she's here* Shouldn't you be looking for Jasmine...?

Ma: (Smiles and nods) “Yes, I should be. But do any of you two need anything before I go?”

Joyce: (Hugs her brother a little tighter, opening her mouth to say something but then she quickly shuts it)

Donovan: (Looks down at her) “Hm? What’s wrong?”

Joyce: (Softly, not wanting to worry him further) “Nothing…”

Teshteal: *warms the food up in the oven... while his thoughts beat him over the head that he's only a burden on Joyce*

Lucille: I'm fine.

Gardio: Nothing at all, thank you. *shakes his head*

Ma: (Nods) “Alright then, I’ll be off.” (Walks back down the stairs, giving her two children a quick nod before she makes her way outside. On the side of the house is a newly installed set of stairs that she climbs to reach the platform on the roof where she finds Nick and Jas)

Jasmine: (Hears Ma coming and she whines in fear, hiding away in Nicks shirt while tightening her grip)

Donovan: (Pats the bottom of her chin) “Are you sure…?”

Joyce: (Quickly nods, but there is still a question lingering in her eyes)

Teshteal: *quietly to himself* I have to eat... it'll help... *just wants the voices to stop*

Nick: *looks up and sees it's Ma then back down to Jas* It's okay, kiddo. It's only Mama Evie... *gently brushes away her hair from her face with his good hand. He looks up at the motherly ghoul* Come to check up on us?

Jasmine: (Relaxes her tight grip when her dad reassures her, peeking up from Nick to blink at Ma with wide eyes)

Ma: (Nods, smiling warmly at the teen girl and her father) “Yes, I realized you were both missing and Detective Chapel directed me to the roof as he heard movement.” (Gestures around the little platform) “You two are catching some sun? It’s a beautiful day out here. One of our first since winter came to a close.”

Donovan: (Knows something is up so he keeps staring at his little sister worriedly)

Joyce: (Smiles up at him) “…Have you eaten yet? We can go eat breakfast together!”

Donovan: (Worried blink but he nods and takes her hand, starting down the stairs with her in tow)

Teshteal: *dawns a new forced smile when he hears footsteps coming down the stairs. He pulls the food out of the oven for Joyce and him* I've already prepared your portion, Joyce! *sets hers on the table. It's a pretty ballanced portion size. His is most of the food he couldn't eat from yesterday plus just a little more to make it a complete breakfast* Hope you don't mind!

Nick: Yeah figured I could use a tan. This face is a bit pale from being cooped to all day. *wry chuckle at is own ironic self jab* As for Jas the sun on her skin seems to help her heal better.

Ma: (Chuckles at his little joke as she approaches) “Shall I bring you some sunscreen then? Don’t want you to get burned.”

Jasmine: (Nuzzles her head back under Nicks chin with a small hum, closing her eyes as a gentle breeze blows by)

Ma: (Folds her hands) “I wanted to originally ask if it would be a good idea to give Rosie some bone broth after her milk? Or maybe she could try eating some toast or even some apple sauce?”

Jasmine: (Makes a noise of protest at the mention of food as she tightens her grip back on her Dad)

Joyce: (Comes bolting over to the table with a wide smile) “I don’t mind!” (Sits down in her spot)

Gilbert: (Circling under Joyce’s chair, trying to jump up so he can be with her)

Donovan: (Follows close behind to brew himself some coffee. He wants to wait until Joyce starts eating before he goes and checks on Jas)

Teshteal: *decides to sit across from her to give her some space. He quickly goes to eat before she can say anything about this.

Nick: We can start with some broth... I don't know if she's ready for solid food just yet. *rubs her back gently to reassure her*

Ma: “That’s perfectly fine. I’ll go prepare that now if there isn’t anything else you need.”

Jasmine: (Puts her thumb in her mouth to help soothe herself without scratching. She still doesn’t like the idea of drinking anything either)

Donovan: (Serves Joyce a glass of milk to drink along with her breakfast, still so concerned about her)

Joyce: (Doesn't want to worry him as he has already had a hell of a night dealing with Jasmine up in the lighthouse. She picks up her fork and looks up at Teshteal from across the table, wanting to ask why he didn’t sit besides her but she keeps quiet about that)

Teshteal: *thinks he's intruded on her enough. Doesn't want her to feel like he's smothering her*

Nick: *just shakes his head in response*

Ma: (Gives a small wave and heads off back down to the kitchen, entering through the side door)

Joyce: (Perks up when Ma walks in, smiling brightly as she sets down her fork) “Hello Mama! Good morning!”

Ma: (Walks over to give her a gentle kiss on the head) “Morning love. Did you sleep well?”

Joyce: (As she picks up Gilbert and sets him in her lap) “Yup!”

Ma: (Turns to Donny) “And you?”

Donovan: (Gives a thumbs up) “Slept fine.”

Ma: (Turns to Teshteal next) “How about you, dear?”

Jasmine: (Nuzzles against her Dad, planning on alerting him if her feelings get too strong. If Nick looks closely to the oldest wounds on her sides, he can probably see that they are starting to fade with the sunlight)

Nick: *is none the less surprised by this but doesn't say anything to disturb her. Instead he rubs small circles on her back to soothe the teen*

Jasmine: (Grips onto his shirt collar to keep her hands busy, focusing on breathing along with the circles he’s rubbing on her back. It’ll be awhile before her newest and worst wounds start healing)

Teshteal: *forces a smile again and looks up at her. It's hard to tell he's faking it* I slept wonderfully! Thank you! *goes back to eating*

Ma: (Bright smile) “That’s good to hear!”

Donovan: (Takes his coffee mug and starts waking to the stairs)

Ma: (Opens the freezer to get some premade bone broth out that she had froze) “Rosalinda and her father are up on the roof, Donny.”

Donovan: “Oh? Alright then.” (Starts heading for the door)

Ma: (Tilts her head, worried that Jas might get upset if she sees Donny and remembers the previous night) “You should eat first before you go up to see her…”

Donovan: (Shakes his head, pausing to turn to his mother) “No, I’ll be alright-…”

Ma: (Gives him a look) “Donovan…”

Teshteal: *keeps his head low as he eats. Doesn't want to bring attention to himself. Telling himself it's none of his business and that he's just going to get in the way. He always does*

Donovan: (Blinks, scratching his head with a heavy sigh when he realizes what she means) “Perhaps you are right…”

Ma: (Continues prepping the broth) “I believe I am. Just at least until she eats something, okay?”

Donovan: (Silent nod as he takes a seat by his sister, sipping his coffee) “I suppose I do have to clear the area of any Mirelurks that may have nested after the storm… Maybe check the bog for berries.”

Joyce: (Perks up from her breakfast at the mention of the bog) “Oh! Can I come?!”

Ma: (Doesn’t want Donny to go out alone, especially after the previous night) “I may tag along as well if you’re gonna go out.”

Donovan: (Shakes his head at his family’s offer) “No, you both don’t have to. I don’t know what’ll be lurking out there so it’s best you stay here where it’s safe.”

Teshteal: *softly* I can help with the mirelurks... *bitterly at himself* It's what I'm made for after all.

Ma: (Missed that last remark as she heads off to gather a diary and pencil for Jasmine while the broth boils) “You’re our guests here, so don’t worry too much about that and just focus on your healing.”

Donovan: (Sets down his coffee mug, remembering what Gardio had pointed out earlier when they were heading out after the trappers) “…Is it even safe for you to leave?” (Takes in a deep breath) “Or for Rosie? We ought to have a talk about that as your group’s situation is still unclear to us.”

Joyce: (Looks between her boyfriend and brother worriedly, the maple syrup bottle held midair so it’s slowly dribbling onto her plate)

Ma: (Goes upstairs to collect some items to bring to Nick and Jas on the roof, gathering everything in a little basket before she walks back outside and up the stairs)

Jasmine: (Was starting to relax again with the warmth of the sun and Nicks soothing rubs when she hears the approaching footsteps, making her shriek with alarm and cling to her Dad like a baby koala and try to hide under the collar of his shirt)

Ma: (Frowns at the girls reaction, assuming she’s still jumpy from her nightmares) “She’s still nervy from her night terrors, poor sweet child…” (Hold up the pretty pink diary after she sets down the bottle with formula on the little table) “I brought this for her to use as a way of coping. Journaling her nightmares can help her process them in a… “healthier manner”. And perhaps aid you in understanding your daughters situation better so you can better guide her.”

Nick: *smiles at the journal then at Ma* That's actually a wonderful idea. I'm surprised I hadn't thought of it sooner. *to Jas* What do you think, kiddo? Want to give journaling another go? *not reaching for the bottle yet. She needs to calm down first*

Teshteal: *matter of factly but only because he can get through the details quicker like that* Jasmine is the one in danger most outside, especially in the state she's in. Plus, her programming has a stronger hold on her than mine. They had a lot more time to break her down. Don't worry. If we're outside, I'll be able to smell the chems miles before they get to us.

Donovan: (A little confused) “You can do what now? Smell them from far away?” (Has way more questions but he figures that he shouldn’t overload Teshteal as the poor guy had a breakdown yesterday)

Joyce: (Starts eating her food again, not minding that she once again drenched it in syrup)

Gilbert: (Sticking up his wiggly little nose in the air, trying to smell the food on his Joyce’s plate)

Jasmine: (Raises her head to peep up at the two adults, still sucking on her thumb. She looks at the pretty diary thats so much more appealing than her bloodied book, her big magical doe eyes sparking at the color and the fact that there’s prints of roses on it. She glances up at Ma, then at her Dad, nodding her head at him)

Ma: (Smiles brightly down at the teen, taking out a small pencil case with colored pens inside in case Jazzy wants to use those as well. She that and the diary besides the two on the chair) “I hope this and the beautiful day out can help her settle down enough to get some proper sleep.” (Looks up at Nick) “And with her wonderful and caring father watching over her.”

Teshteal: *taps his nose* I have enhanced olfactory senses. It's pretty easy for me to sniff out people. It's how I found Jasmine earlier. Everyone's got a distinct scent profile. Kind of like a fingerprint... *wonders if this is weirding them out* It's kind of a disgusting ability... I'd understand if you think I'm some sort of freak.

Donovan: (Shakes his head) “I’ve been around long enough to have seen more freakish things, this ain't one of them.”

Joyce: (Looks at her boyfriend with a small smile) “I think its pretty neat! But I suppose it would be a bother with strong scents.” (Wrinkles her nose)

Nick: *smiles at the compliment, taking the case and the book from the table* Don't forget to rest, yourself. You're welcome to join us out here if you want. *to Jas* Do you want to go ahead and write something now, doll?

Jasmine: (Nods and sits up as she takes the stationary, scooting off Nicks lap so she’s sitting besides him on the double lounger with her head leaning on his shoulder. She props up her knees to use as a table and starts to write about her previous nightmares starting off with describing the shadows looming over her, the coding helping her see and focus despite her splitting headache and pain)

Ma: (Shakes her head with a wave of her hand) “Don’t you start fretting ‘bout me too, you have enough as it is. I have some things to take care of but I might come back up later as this day is just too lovely to ignore.” (Puts Nicks coat and a thin robe she brought for Jas on the table just in case they get cold)

Nick: *looks at her pointedly* A good guest ought to be mindful of their host. *not looking at what Jas writes right now in case she wants to keep it private*

Teshteal: *scrunches his nose, too* Yeah. For instance the barn yesterday. This also means I have a strong sense of taste, too. *shakes his head, remembering the original subject* That's besides the point. I can get away a lot quicker than they can spot me. Besides I'm sure Joyce can fight, too. *smiles at his girlfriend* I'll do my best to protect her.

Joyce: (Looks to her older brother with puppy eyes, tugging on his arm) “Pleeeeeeaasse???”

Donovan: (Rubs the temple of his brow) “Oh good lord, now there’s two girls who can do puppy eyes at me…”

Joyce: “I wanna pick some berries!”

Donovan: “And I want to keep you safe from Mirelurks and whatever else might’ve made it’s way here after the storm. We haven’t had time to practice your shooting in awhile. Plus, the smell of rotting corpses would draw in more creatures. I wouldn’t be surprise if there was a Fog Crawler or two.”

Joyce: (Eyes widen slightly)

Donovan: (Heavy sigh as he starts to tap his fingers on the table) “That and the Trappers in the quarry...” (Starts mumbling to himself) “God... that's gonna take awhile, there's so much I gotta fix.”

Joyce: (Gets a concerned look on her face for her workoholic brother)

Ma: (Opens her mouth to say something, then looks at Jas and quickly closes it. She silently gestures up to the lighthouse that still has blood and glass covering the floor, something she had to get rid of in case they get more guests)

Jasmine: (Trying to document even the littlest details, doing her best to express the jumbled up feelings that she felt in the moment. The helpless desperation and fear as the large shadows towered over her small frame, the twisting in her heart when they all kept shouting the same degrading insults. Her eyes stay glued onto the diary and her hand never stops moving, the programming taking ahold and putting her into complete focus mode)

Ma: “Donny is also thinking of going out to clear some potential Mirelurks then head to the tarberry bog, I may go with him as there can possibly be more than just that out there.” (Turns and looks out over her newly established farm on this unfamiliar Island, sighing sadly to herself as she folds her hands)

Nick: If that's the case, might be wise to take either Teshteal or Gardio with you. *frowns* I'd suggest Lucille but she's currently out of commission until her leg heals.

Ma: (Stares out longingly at her farm for a long moment, sighing heavily as she shakes her head and turns back to Nick) “Mhm, maybe we will….” (Gets another thought at the mention of Lucille, pursing her lips together)

Jasmine: (Still writing like mad, her hand shaking with how tight she’s gripping the pencil)

Nick: Something on your mind? *looks up curiously at her*

Ma: “Hm?” (Realizes that she’s delayed her response and gives a half smile) “Oh nothing at all- it’s just this old gal getting held up by the past.”

Teshteal: Don't know what a fog crawler is but if it's anything like a Mirelurk Queen, I can take it out easily. *interlaces his fingers and stretches them by pushing them away from his face while grinning with carefree confidence*

Donovan: “Ah…. It’s almost like a giant shrimp- praying mantis type mutated monster. They’re waaaaaay faster than they look and can be a pain to take down.” (Shudders just thinking about it)

Joyce: (Puts her head in her hands, looking at her brother in deep thought) “Still… can we at least try? If there’s anything dangerous we can come right back home.”

Donovan: (Rubs his chin) “I suppose so… but we have to be extra cautious and take the longer rout to avoid going best the water.”

Teshteal: *intrigued by the Fog Crawler and wants to go even more, now. More to himself* I wonder if they taste like shrimp, too...

Donovan: (Sips his coffee) “We’ll go later, maybe right before lunch or after.”

Joyce: (Beams with delight, but then sags a little) “Erm…. Before we go or do anything else- can we talk about something? Just me and you?” (Shyly tucks some hair behind her ear)

Donovan: (Remembers what happened at breakfast yesterday and nods) “Sure, Jo-Jo… You wanna go up to my room to talk right now?”

Joyce: (Quickly nods, turning to her boyfriend) “We’ll just be a minute, okay?”

Teshteal: Okay. *sheepishly waves*

Joyce: (Stands from the table with her brother and Gilbert in her arms, giving Teshteal a quick kiss on the head before she follows Donny up the stairs to his room)

Teshteal: *blinks and blushes at the kiss. As soon as they're gone he gets to work cleaning up his food and clearing the table to keep his thoughts clear*

Nick: *shakes his head* I know the past can be a bit of a slog, believe me, but that expression of yours shifted just as I mentioned Lucille. *raises an eyebrow*

Ma: (Brightens up) “Ah- I was just thinking about asking Lucille if she’d like me to draw her a bath so she can wash up.” (Thinks that the poor young woman needs a good soak after the previous nights events)

Jasmine: (Starts to tremble when she gets around to writing about the Guard Leader, writing faster in order to keep up with her racing mind. Tears form on her eyes as she remembers every word he spat at her, still believing it all. She goes through on how he just appeared in front of her and how he mocked her shivering frame on the floor, stopping when she describes how big he is compared to her after he called her babydoll and yanked her to the floor)

Nick: *rubs Jas's shoulders slightly when he senses she's paused- probably because of something terrible. He only turns his attention to her briefly. With a reassuring tone* You don't have to write it if you don't want to, Rosie... Take a moment to breathe. *to Ma* Good idea- She probably could use a good long soak. She doesn't get to do that often, I'm sure. *nods, as if confirming it for himself*

Ma: (Waves her hand) “I’ll go do that right now.” (Turns and heads back down the stairs and into the house, going straight up to the attic to ask Lucille if having a warm bath sounds like lovely idea)

Jasmine: (Doesn’t stop writing because if she does she won’t be able to start again and she needs to document these things. Hell, she needs to update that damned bloodied book as it’s part of her programming)

Nick: *only nods after her then leans his head back and shuts his eyes, keeping an ear out for any other pauses of Jasmine's pen*

Jasmine: (Lips quiver as she writes, describing being tossed to the floor followed the the growing fear because she knows what he was going to do with her next. Then she recounts that she called out for Nick to save her but was asked by the Guard Leader why he would ever help her. She writes on how she shakily said it was because she was Nicks daughter, but the Guard Leader smacked her with the other reasons on why Nick is bothering to care about her- which made her angry enough to try and hit him)

Lucille: *doing some programming practice on her pipboy*

Gardio: *reading a book he borrowed from the guest room. Because of last night, he feels the need to stay by his little girl's side right now*

Ma: (Comes up the stairs to the attic and knocks on the wall) “Yoo-hoo?” (Smiles warmly at the two) “Lucille? I wanted to ask if you’d like me to run a bath downstairs for you?”

Lucille: *confused* I'm not that dirty, am I...?

Gardio: *looks over at her* Remember, you can take baths for other reasons, Lucille.

Lucille: *raises an eyebrow*

Ma: (Approaches with a gentle smile, stopping at the side of the bed) “It’s good for your mental health as much as your physical health to stay clean, love. And soaking in a nice warm bath with epsom salt can do wonders with relaxing your muscles to help relieve pent up tension.” (Tenderly strokes Lucille’s hair, still so frightfully worried about her as if the young woman was her own daughter)

Lucille: *freezes at the tender touch, glancing up at the older woman. Slightly tears up at the kindness she's being shown. Quietly as she looks back down at her pipboy* Okay.…

Ma: (Smiles even brighter down at Lucille, smoothing out her hair as she leans down to kiss her forehead) “You deserve to pamper yourself every once in awhile. I’ll go run the water for you and gather some soothing supplies. We have some crutches for you to use to keep you off your ankle or your father can help you down the stairs.” (Nods at Gardio) “Also my dear, you think you’ll need assistance in the bathroom? I can wash your hair for you, give ya a little salon scalp treatment and wash.” (Not bringing up the fact that leaving Lucille alone wouldn’t be a good idea considering last night)

@lucilleandherrobots