#sam’s grandmother is amazing

[tanglepelt]

dc x dp snippet? idea? not too sure....

Essentially amity park is a front. The whole town was designed to recruit member for an evil group. The end game to destroy the justice league. My brain took the idea and ran with it. I may continue this. I may not.

Amity Park had always been a strange place. For as log as anyone could remember. A gimmick, a spooky town. It played its role perfectly. No one really looked into it. No one saw the mad scientist or weapons facility as odd. Who would ever think to investigate a tourist trap. The showier they were the more believable. The Fenton’s were assets at keeping tourist gullible, their driving, and obsession sold the show. Keeping the tourist distracted and money coming in. Who would notice the laser watches, they just looked normal. Any ghost attack was just a show. Any damage done and its fixed the next day as if It was planned. The town had was obviously committed to there “haunted” town.

Ghost hunters in amity just made sense. Walking around with weapons was a normal and not suspicious. Locals didn’t care and anyone else thought it was part of the gig. The bigger the dramatics the more they could get away with. With all the chaos and attacks the tourist would be distracted.

It let them track anyone who came into town. They would check in visitors with the guise of making sure they stayed in the living world. Waivers had to be signed or there was no entry permitted.

No one to see how all the kids were more observant, no one to see the the gym coach or classes, no one to see the experiments, and no one to notice the secret town meetings while the children slumbered.

The meetings discussing the children and how they’ve advanced. Who needed to be terminated, who was improving and who would soon be integrated into the loop. Every year they discussed the first-year students. It was there last chance to become incorporated or “move” after high school. They couldn’t risk any of them leaving the town unless they were in the loop. 

After all of if the kids thought their schooling was normal, they’d never question it. The president challenge was harder then most. Why would an average school require flips off the bars or the ability to scale a rope to the roof if a building. The last two years of high school centered around obstacle courses, agility and parkour in gym.

An amity child leaving without being in the fold could be catastrophic. It would only take one to alert authorities for a slight inconvenience. Authorities could be paid to look the other way or easily put down. A hero however would be a headache to deal with. This town was the center of there recruiting. It was do or die.

Now the organization will admit the ghost were a welcomed surprise. A front row sear to watch the progress the kids had. They expected the jocks or even geeks to manage it the best. The seniors to take arms and manage the threat at the very least. The oddball trio was not what they had wanted or expected.

Those three were the problem students after-all. One so into technology it would be hard to keep him in line. The network was heavily blocked a monitored but using him was an issue. He had nearly bi-passed there security on accident. Imagine if he knew what was going on. Then the goth, the activist. She was too much an individual, free thought and radical views. They’d have to break her spirit. Then there was Danny Fenton.

He had promise in the beginning. Well rounded. Wasn’t so caught up in improving others as his sister. Held good grades through elementary and through middle school and was the golden candidate until the previous summer. No longer set to focus on study’s but off with his friends.

As Sam had grown falling away from their potential, she dragged Danny and Tucker with her. Both now had more individual thoughts and opinions straying from his parents. His grades had dropped even before the ghost. Just to A- or so. Attempts to steer them away from her only brought them closer.

If they couldn’t get sam in line they’d have to cut there loses. They’d lose a good potential hacker, the masons would need a new heir someone they could actually mold to gain more funds and business, and they’d lose a potential leader or scientist.

Cutting just Sam would have led to problems. They had tried. Sam was abruptly moved for a week to see what would happen. The guise a business trip. Danny and tucker given no notice. The two took matters in their hands and hunted for her. They nearly discovered the truth of the town. Only once the Fentons explained she was on a trip did they calm down. The trio were deemed lost causes. They were set to bet terminated.

Two weeks before the plan was set to eliminate them the ghost appeared, and it was them who took charge. Now the ghost was always planned, the Fenton’s had been close to opening the portal. So close to new weapons and infinite power supply. Nothing they had done activated the portal. But the problem trio when left alone somehow got it working. The power from the portal shorted the cameras in the lab and they were unable to see how.

 Sam and tucker were out on the field. They were learning at a rapid pace. With them constantly fighting and winning. The three were considered candidates again. They’d still have to break the girl, it was worth the effort now. Add the fact they had a viable solution now.

The newest hero of amity park. Phantom.

Phantom himself would simple a ghost to take care of. Allowing the Fenton to play around for now. What fun was a hunt to them if they couldn’t play with there prey. Once it was time to rid themselves of the pest the Fenton’s could truly hunt.

For now, phantom was getting Sam and Tucker more suited for future missions. He could keep “his” team for now. Danny was obviously the one with the plan. He was never with them but had to be the main contact with phantom. Whenever Danny was around phantom would show to clear his messes.

The surprise reunion with Vlad confirmed their suspicion. Not to mention the Youngblood incident. Danny led his schoolmates to board the ship and free their parents. Only once the ghost shield was down did he go and contact phantom to come handle the rest.

An accident would be in order. It was only a matter of time until the trio grew stagnant and needed more focused teaching. The masons were still an asset they just would not be allowed to be a caretaker again. Jeremy and Pamela mason still were the main source of income. The two were good the schmoozing. Sam would just have to manage field work with her business persona as her “grandmother” had. The Fenton’s were non-negotiable and a necessity to the group. If the need arises, they be allowed to raise another.

The foleys would work. They were good caretakers but served no other purpose to the group. Framing phantom for there deaths should be enough to ignite a need for revenge and break the group apart. Introduce a new fourth to them after the shock wore off.

Valerie had grown as well. She would be brought into the loop soon. The red huntress would be an asset. Her original purpose no longer mattered. Valerie would be easy to recruit. All it seemed to take was some money and a reason to dislike a group. All it took for her to despise ghost was her father losing his job, one of the groups smartest moves yet.

Good thing that reason was already in motion. The anti-ecto acts were set to be announced tomorrow. The justice league would publicly denounce the acts within an hour. They had no reason to condemn an entire species that had shown no sign of aggression. Most ghost weren’t even visible to the public.

With Amitys gimmick who would believe the reports of supposed ghost destruction. Viral videos of it just to be explained through special effects. Keep the rest of the world believing the gimmick and the young in amity only seeing the disbelief.

The justice league would be the key to their own demise. Events have been ruined, the children had been infected by the ghost flu, Sam had been kidnapped by a ghost, and the constant attacks on the school. This was the wedge they needed to keep them in line. To bring them into the fold. The towns caretakers would make sure any opinions of the hero’s would be bad. The only mentions of the hero’s permitted of the hero’s online would be failures and misunderstandings.

Citizens of the infinite realm and ghost were two very different species. Not that the children would ever be allowed to know.

Soon the justice league would fall.

[nobrashfestivity]

24 Hour Red Sauce

Since I am making this right now as I type, I thought I would share one of my sauce recipes. The long cooking time may seem daunting but that's also what makes it difficult to mess up. There are probably typos and I never before have written this down but here it is.

24 hour red sauce

People ask me sometimes “How did you make this sauce?” and I usually say something like, “Well, I cook it a really long time.” But now I will share, roughly, how I do make that sauce.

In spite of my part-Italian family, This is my recipe not a family one. My mother and Italian grandmother showed me how to make sauce but frankly, theirs was not that great. Okay, serviceable, not amazing. Perhaps, like many people I learned to cook at an early age because I didn’t like other people’s food. I went to one of those terrible schools where they would make you eat what they gave you. I’m stubborn and refused their overtures, and as I went forth in life I said no to many things. and thus never developed a taste for them. I’m basically the opposite of Anthony Bourdain.

Because I am a vegetarian, I would bring Lasagna or the like to holiday meals for friends and family and over time I endeavored to make a sauce that would stand up in lasagna, stuffed shells or other sauce killers. I make other sauces but this is the favorite of my friends because, I think, the long cooking time makes for a complex flavor.

I’m not the New York times, so this is a little rough in terms of measurements but the beauty of red sauce is that you taste as you go.

-7 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (I use Tuscan olive oil such as Vetrice for critical stuff but it can be waste of money in long cooking sauce. Any good olive oil with a little bite will work)

-2 28 oz cans of Bianco DiNapoli crushed tomatoes. (you can also use Sam merican, Mutti or what have you, but I like these best)

- 14 ounce Bianco DiNapoli whole tomatoes (opinions differ on crushed vs whole, I use a mix)

-25-35 cloves fresh garlic, finely chopped

-½ to 3/4 oz fresh basil leaves, chopped (this depends on how many stems you get and how pungent the basil is)

-Vegetable broth (this will add salt, if you want less salt use low sodium broth. If you’re not a vegetarian, you can use beef or chicken broth too).

-Full bodied red wine, like Cabernet, Merlot or Rojas. Don’t break the bank but don’t use something disgusting, you’re eating this.

-1 dried bay leaf (yes you have to)

-¾ teaspoon crushed red pepper (I use a whole teaspoon actually)

-½ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper

-1 medium to large sweet onion

Get a big sauce pan because red sauce will splatter as cook it and it's easier if that doesn’t end up on your stove.

Chop the whole tomatoes (I do this by hand but you can use a food processor) set aside in a bowl.

Under low heat, put the olive oil in and add the garlic and the red pepper, saute a little until the garlic becomes a little glassy.

Add the crushed and chopped whole tomatoes, increase the heat to medium. Set aside the cans.

Peel your onion (you can use two if they are small) and chop it in half. Now look where the sauce comes up to in your cooking pot. Make a little mark (obviously on the outside) of your pot or just wing it.

Fill one empty can half way (14 oz) with vegetable broth and slosh it around to get the remaining tomatoes out of it. Add the black pepper and bay leaf and pour into the sauce.

Fill the other empty can half way with red wine (also 14 oz), a Cabernet is good here, slosh it around and add to the sauce. Now you have wasted nothing except your life cooking this sauce.

Add the two halves of your onion to the sauce. Stir in about half the chopped basil.

Cover the sauce with a lid with a hole in it or half cover it allowing some steam out and turn the stove way down below a simmer. You should even being seeing regular bubbles I the sauce at first and they shouldn’t be appearing rapidly ever.

Every hour tell Michael to stir the sauce (or do it yourself)

Pour a glass of wine and drink it.

Cook it half covered for 4-6 hours on as low heat as possible. You should see occasional bubbles. If the cooked sauce falls below the line you made on your cooking pot, you’re cooking it too fast, but no matter, if that happens, add a cup of 1/3 wine, 1/3 water and 1/3 broth and stir it in. Taste the sauce, it should be pretty good.

Go to bed and out the sauce in the ice box (My grandmother said Ice Box, refrigerator is what it means).

When you get back up in the afternoon (if you get up early, who even are you) uncover the sauce and put it back on low heat simmering or below. Add another two cups of the wine-broth-water mixture and cook for another 5-8 hours. Remember to stir.

When the sauce tastes amazing and you can’t stop tasting it, remove the onions and bay leaf and throw them away. Turn the stove off. Add the rest of your fresh basil and stir it in. You don’t have to use all the basil but basil is not a bad thing. Let the sauce cool for at least an hour. Serve or store. Drink the remaining wine.

It’s actually difficult to ruin this sauce if you follow these guiding principles-

1- You want roughly the same amount of sauce you started with before you added the liquids (wine, water and broth). So you want to see about 50-65 oz of finished sauce depending on how thick you like it.

2- Cooking the onions provides the sweetness to take the acidity out of the sauce, if it’s not sweet enough to can add another onion but it should all even out with more cooking. More sugar will be released from the onions over time. The sauce should be spicy and somewhat strong and acidic but also smooth and flavorful. Add more of your liquids if the sauce is too thick, cook more if it’s too thin. Don’t use sugar.

3- The red wine is a big flavor in this, the alcohol will cook off but flavor is part of the dynamic. Sicilians will tell you to use paste, but that’s a different sauce.

4- I cook this sauce for as long as 24 hours but you don’t have to to make it good. It depends a lot on how high your heat is, how much liquid you use etc. but I would recommend no less than 7 hours of cooking. Otherwise the magic doesn’t happen.

5- Make this often, tweak to your taste, you will return to it each time affirming its power to sustain you in a harsh and unkind world.

[crappymixtape]

laugh like lovers, kiss like friends

you're getting married – steve’s in town for the ceremony and it dredges up old memories, ones you thought you'd forgotten, but you have to decide, will you say ‘i do’ or will your heart realize what you really want has been there all along?  | (  9.1k, angst, fluff, friends to lovers, steve x you, steve x reader )

L A U G H L I K E L O V E R S, K I S S L I K E F R I E N D S 🎶 cold water swimming, quiet houses

“How about these, dear? Eucalyptus pairs lovely with peonies. Besides, wildflowers for a wedding? In all my years as a planner I’ve never seen it. No one does it. It's just tacky, hon.”

Twirling the stem of a daisy between your fingers you bit the inside of your cheek, only half hearing the woman standing next to you among all the buckets and vases of flowers in the greenhouse.

Wildflowers for a wedding? No one does it.

Pulling your eyes off the daisy you forced a smile, “Of course, I’m sorry. Peonies sound great.”

“Wonderful, I’ll add it to the day-of agenda and make sure the florist knows you’ve made up your mind. It’s an excellent choice, one your fiance will be happy with I’m sure.”

Your fiance.

Sam proposed less than a month ago in the kitchen of your little downtown Indianapolis apartment with his grandmother’s ring. A huge, gaudy diamond that made your hands look even smaller than they already were and after you’d called your mom the news had spread like wildfire.

Sam didn’t want to wait, he probably would’ve dragged you down to the courthouse if it hadn’t been for his parents and your mom, but it meant things were moving at the speed of light and you were running to catch up.

When he’d looked up at you, ring box outstretched, you knew what your first thought should’ve been. Tears and overwhelming joy and a resounding Yes! but none of it came. Instead your first thought had been long stalks of grass. The glittering turquoise water of the quarry. Skunky weed and wildflowers and hot, sticky Indiana summers.

Steve.

“Babe, you gotta call the bakery back, the lady doesn’t get it. Idiot,” Sam’s voice cut through into your thoughts and you blinked them away.

“What?”

“The cake? She’s not getting it. I told her we wanted vanilla, like actual vanilla not that imitation shit.”

“Julie’s not an idiot,” your tone grew clipped, short, brow furrowing as you folded your arms across your chest. Julie had lived in Hawkins since before your family moved in across the street from her. The only, and best, bakery in town with the sweetest baker known to man. Julie was a saint.

“Okay, well then you try and explain it to her. I’m done,” Sam huffed, pinching his nose between his fingers and shaking his head. “I’m gonna go get food with my mom. Can’t wait until this is all over,” he grumbled under his breath. “I’ll see you back at the house," and with that he hastily pressed a kiss to your forehead before stalking out of the greenhouse.

“Not really a man’s arena is it,” the planner said giving you an overly sweet smile, “Better to let us take care of it, hm?”

“I guess,” you couldn’t bear to force another smile, “Thanks for your help, but I need to go get ready for tonight. Call me if anything else comes up.”

“On it and don’t you worry, only a few more days. Just think! The happiest day of your life!”

The happiest day of your life.

It sure as hell didn’t didn’t it feel like it.

The high vaulted ceilings in your parents’ living room looked the same as they had when you lived there. Same ugly, bumpy texture and yellowed color, now with a few too-high cobwebs just out of reach hanging in the corners.

The buzz of conversation filling the air around you was incessant, blending and blurring together and making you feel like you were far away. Like you were a spectator and not the bride-to-be and your chest squeezed with nerves. There were so many people packed into the house and as guests hurled their questions at you, your anxiety only grew.

“Oh, sweetie you look amazing! You’ll be a beautiful bride!” “Tell me again, where are you going for your honeymoon?” “Sam is such a catch, does he have any available friends? Just kidding! But seriously?” “Oh my god, look at that ring! He must really love you.”

One of Sam’s cousins had been hammering you with question after question, barely giving you any room to reply and you felt like you were drowning in it. The walls of the living room suddenly felt like they were closing in on you, making you feel claustrophobic and you needed air. Outside. Anything other than this. “Is-is it warm in here?” you stuttered, pulling at the collar of your dress.

“No? What d’you mean–”

“I’m sorry, excuse me,” you didn’t wait for her to finish and instead moved as quickly as you could through the crowd, trying not to project your panic with a fake smile plastered on your lips until you reached the slider door.

“Honey!” your stomach sank. Your mom. “Your aunt and uncle just got here, you need to say hello!”

Looking over your shoulder she was standing with her hands on her hips, brow furrowed in frustration, watching as your fingers gripped the handle of the patio door.

“I know,” your voice was edged with irritation and you bit your tongue. “Please? I just need some air for a minute. I’ll be right back,” and you could tell she didn’t like your answer, but she didn’t fight you on it as you slipped outside, all the noise and voices and music blunted and sliced in half as you shut the door behind you.

Leaning back against the glass, eyes closed, you pulled in a breath of air and let it out slowly. Trying, telling, yourself you had to keep it together. Just a minute out here and you’d feel right as rain. Ready to dive back in.

The happiest day of your life.

“Shouldn’t you be inside?”

Your eyes flew open, an all-too-familiar voice making your heart leap into your throat.

He was sitting on the edge of one of the pool loungers like it was nothing, a few locks of stray hair falling into his eyes, all warm honey and burnt caramel and the boyish grin he was giving you made you feel dizzy. Like it always did.

“I’ve been inside for like two hours,” you shot back, but you couldn’t ever bring yourself to really sound mad at him.

At Steve.

“Well don't sound like you’re having too much fun. Not like you’re getting married in three days or anything,” he teased, scooting over on the lounger, a silent invitation for you to sit next to him and you took it.

“Don’t remind me–” fell out, “–what I mean is–it's just–just planning everything has been...a lot.”

Steve caught your slip up, but didn’t call it out, only humming in reply as he threaded a hand through his hair, watching as you settled down next to him. “I’m about a month late, but congrats,” he offered with a small smile before taking a drink from his beer.

“Oh, yeah. Thanks,” you replied lamely, cheeks flushing when he looked over at you. You were entirely too sober for this. “Here, gimme that,” reaching over you took the beer from his hand, chugging half of it in one go and pulling a laugh out of Steve.

“Jesus,” Steve laughed, amused at you, a sound you’d missed so very much. “Take it easy,” he chided gently, but it was all warm and sticky sweet like popsicles on a hot day and when you gave it back he shook his head.

Silence lingered between you for a moment, the static sound of the pool filter trickling in the background, and your thoughts drifted back to a moment a few years ago. Up in your room while summer spun by outside. The last time he'd been over here. Steve.

Bobbing along to the music coming from your stereo, you crammed the last of your photos into one of the empty supply boxes Steve had brought over from Family Video.

“I wanted to be with you alone and talk about the weather, but traditions I can trace against the child in your face won't escape my attention,” you sang a little off key, giving your shoulders a little shimmy as you turned to grab the pile of books on your bed.

“You keep your distance via the system of touch and gentle persuasion. I'm lost in admiration, could I need you this much?” Steve sang back, browed knitted together in dedication to the bit, hips swaying as he wiped down your dresser. Turning with the roll of paper towels in his hand he held it out to you as the chorus neared, both of you singing horribly.

“Oh, you're wasting my time, you're just, just, just wasting time!”

“God, who’s gonna sing shitty with me when you’re not around?” Steve tossed the roll onto your bed, leaning back against the drawers behind him.

“Robin sucks more than I do,” you shot back, and Steve mumbled in agreement.

“Yeah, but she hates Tears for Fears,” there was a slight whine in his voice that made you look up at him over your box and grin.

“Well then save it for me when I’m back on Christmas break.”

Steve gave you a pout and folded his arms over his chest, “That’s like, a fucking eon from now.”

“It’s not that long,” you moved around the other side of your bed to sit in front of him, a small pause swallowing you both into silence.

Clearing your throat you dropped your gaze down your shoes, kicking them in time with the song still playing in the background. You glanced over at Steve’s dirty, beat up Blazers and smiled. “I guess I’ll miss you,” you teased, looking back up at him and he gave you a smile, but it softened the longer he looked at you.

“I know I’ll miss you,” he said, and you knew he meant it, and your heart fluttered in your chest like a bird caught in a cage as the air around you grew thick with words unsaid, but implied. Steve took a step away from the dresser, standing in the V of your legs, hand moving to lift your chin up with his thumb and forefinger.

You bit your bottom lip between your teeth, meeting his gaze, and everything felt hazy. “Miss you too, Stevie,” you murmured and he leaned down slowly. Tilting your chin ever so gently he hesitated for just a second before pressing his lips against yours. Your room and half-packed boxes and everything fell away in the warm, glittering feeling of Steve and summer and the last of the light falling through your window washed you both in gold like it wanted to hold you in that moment forever.

“How long are you in town for?” your voice broke the silence between you and Steve took another drink of his beer.

“Just til the day after the wedding, need to get back to things,” he said softly, stealing a look at you out of the corner of his eye, smiling at the way your nose scrunched up when you were thinking, “You look really pretty by the way.”

Your cheeks warmed and you stole a look at him too, “You have to say that.”

“No I don’t. I do on your wedding day, but this is a freebie,” he teased, trying to make it seem lighter than it was, but you both knew the weight it carried.

“Babe, c’mon. You gotta get back inside. It’s rude. People are looking for you,” the sudden sound of Sam’s voice sliced your moment in two and Steve sat up straight, leaning away from you as he rubbed the back of his neck.

“Alright, I just needed some air,” your voice sounded tired and Steve caught the look in your eyes as you roughed your hands over your face, “I’m coming.”

“Harrington,” Sam sniped, and Steve gave him a big smile, knowing just how much the other man hated finding the two of you sitting together.

“Sammy,” Steve teased and you had to bite back a laugh, hiding it in a cough, but Sam knew.

“I fuckin’ hate that,” Sam gave Steve a look and he just smiled.

“I think it’s cute,” you chimed in, but knew you should’ve kept it to yourself when Sam glared daggers at you.

“Inside,” he said, patience short, and you felt your own run out as you glared right back, but moved toward the slider door anyway.

“I’ll see you,” you told Steve and just before you slipped back into the chaos, he gave you a look. The same one you remembered from that hot summer evening in your room as you packed your life into boxes. A look that put fire to the embers lying dormant in your chest and something you thought had been extinguished flickered back to life.

“Sam, hurry up, we’re going to be late!”

“I’m trying. You know how much I hate being outside. These stupid boots are too tight and–” Sam grunted, leaning over to tug at his socks, “–these are itchy as hell.”

“You don’t have to wear them, but your legs are gonna get bit up and scratched on the trail,” you shook your head, yanking your own worn-in boots onto your feet.

“Bit? Are you kidding me?”

“What? It’s summer, there are a ton of bugs out right now.”

Sam sucked in a breath and put his face in his hands, standing on the other side of the bed from you. He’d agreed to it at first, thought maybe it might be a quaint little jaunt through a park, but when he realized it was an actual hike up the bluff just outside Hawkins – in nature – he’d thrown a fit.

It was one of your favorite places, a special piece of home, and you were going to go with or without him.

“Just stay home, Sam. It’s fine,” you huffed, kicking your suitcase shut, tugging your ponytail through the back of your baseball cap.

“You know what? Maybe I will. This whole place is too much. Jason’ll get beers with me,” he growled under his breath, yanking his boots off to get to his socks, “Enjoy your hike.”

“Great, thanks, will do,” you almost left the room without saying goodbye, but something made you hesitate and you paused for a second at the door, eyes squeezed shut. Why was everything so damn hard? This was supposed to be easy.

The happiest day of your life.

Resigned, you turned around and retraced the few steps over to Sam. “I’ll see you when we’re back,” you muttered, bending down and brushing a hasty kiss to his cheek.

“See you,” he didn’t meet your gaze, instead scowling at the ground and it was the push you needed to leave, the weight on your shoulders lifting as you hurried down the stairs and out the door.

The sun was just coming up, painting the sky cotton candy pinks and blurred warm tangerines. You could feel the heat already and as you got out of your car at the bluff the feeling of the sun on your bare legs pulled a heavy sigh from your lungs. Breathing out the stress and pressure of the last few days and you closed your eyes for a minute, leaning against the warmth of your car.

It would be okay. Today was for you. This was for you.

Opening them again you heard another car rumbling up the dirt road behind you and when you turned around you grinned so big your cheeks started to hurt.

“OH MY GOD,” Robin squealed. She practically leapt out of the backseat of Steve’s BMW and ran over to you, gathering you up in her arms and squeezing tight. “What the hell! You look amazing! Shit. Is this like, pre-wedding glow or did you stop eating meat or something? I hear it’s like, totally bad for your skin.”

“Robin,” Steve shook his head as he shut his car door before walking around to get Robin’s too.

“What? All legitimate questions! Right, Eds?” she shot back.

“I mean, not the first thing I’d ask,” Eddie replied with a grin, but you could hear the softness of him behind it.

“Alright, well I wouldn’t expect you to know anyway. Weddings are like a foreign language to you plebs,” Robin said simply, clicking her fanny pack around her waist.

“Hey, that’s not fair, I know enough,” Steve chimed in, propping a hand on his hip and giving Robin a look.

“Children, not about us today!” Eddie chided, following after Robin and gathering you up into one of his bear hugs. “Hi, sweetheart,” he held you out at arm’s length and gave you a warm Eddie smile.

“Hi,” you grinned back, the happiest you’d been in days just listening to the comforting sound of your friends bickering, “Missed you.”

“Mmm, you too,” Eddie hummed, shooting a quick glance over at Steve. “Some of us more than others,” he said a bit quieter, bringing his eyes back to you and you felt your cheeks flush.

“Okay, hike?” you deflected, then accusingly looked back at Eddie, “You’re not still smoking are you?”

“Only on Wednesdays,” he flipped back casually, but you knew he was full of shit.

“Munson, you’re a horrible liar,” Steve drawled, rolling his eyes, starting the walk to the edge of the bluff. “Nance and Jonathan are already at the top,” he said over his shoulder, “Jonathan wanted to get a time lapse of the sunrise.”

“Oh, sick,” Eddie clapped his hands, “I gotta see it. C’mon, Buckley get with it.” He waved an arm forward, pulling Robin into a jog and you shook your head with a soft laugh as you caught up with Steve. Starting up the bluff two by two.

The sounds of everything coming to life swirled around the four of you as you walked. The buzz of the insects, birds chirping their morning songs and tractors rumbling to life in the fields alongside the bluff.

Home.

“God, the last time we were up here was so Dustin could talk to Suzie,” Steve half-laughed, Eddie and Robin walking just ahead of you. You grinned at the memory.

“Oh no,” you shook your head, “They might be worse than we are at singing.”

“Didn’t think it was possible to be honest,” he teased gently, smiling over at you, looking for a long moment before dropping his gaze back down to his feet.

You could feel his eyes on you and the warmth of it filled you up and spilled over at the edges, making you happier than you’d been in a long time and a tiny pinch of guilt squeezed in your chest.

“Thanks for getting up so early,” you exhaled, breaths getting heavier as the incline of the bluff steepened, Steve pulling in a breath next to you.

“Oh, I don’t think I’ve slept in since high school,” he waved you off, “Managing a store’s got me up ass early every day. Besides, wouldn’t miss it.” Arms swinging at your sides, his fingers brushed against yours as you walked and the embers in your chest glowed bright.

“Yeah,” you sighed, wishing that for once Sam had come along. That he’d put even a little bit of effort into your interests. That he’d care even a fraction of what Steve cared and the embers flickered again with your frustration.

“You two are slow as hell!” Eddie teased and when you looked up you saw he and Robin had been moving much faster than you and Steve. “I’m smoking a victory cigarette at the top!” he yelled and Robin smacked him, both of them dissolving into laughter.

“C’mon, that asshole doesn’t need another cigarette,” Steve’s brow furrowed in frustration and he picked up the pace, pulling you along with him as he lengthened his stride.

Jonathan and Nancy were waiting for the four of you at the top and, much to Eddie’s dismay, Robin beat him by a couple of feet, stealing his cigarettes and jamming them into her fanny pack as punishment.

Jonathan had asked Nancy to marry him two years ago now, Christmas eve under the tree at the farm and they’d eloped that spring there on top of the bluff. It had been a small, but sweet ceremony, with only family and close friends. Perfectly Nance and Jonathan and as you thought back on it your stomach twisted with a longing feeling.

As you sat scattered among the long grass in pairs – Eddie and Robin, Nancy and Jonathan, you and Steve – a breeze picked up and blew through the wildflowers around you, taking then with it and you watched as the buttercups danced in the wind.

You wanted wildflowers. Not peonies and eucalyptus.

“Hey, where’d you go?” Steve’s voice pulled you out of your thoughts and you looked over at him, sat close enough to you in the grass that you could see all the little moles and freckles that dotted down the line of his jaw, his neck, the exposed skin along the top of his shirt.

“Flowers,” fell out and you didn’t shy away from him, meeting his gaze.

“Flowers?” he asked, brow knitting together in confusion.

“Stupid flowers. And cake. And nature and socks and–”

“Whoa, whoa, whoa. Slow down. What are you talking about?” Steve scooted closer to you, your legs pressing together as you sat facing each other and he put a hand on your knee.

Your throat tightened and you felt tears pricking at the corners of your eyes, but you willed them away. Not here. You didn’t mean it.

“Hey,” he said softer, hand lifting from your knee to press into yours and you blinked hastily, pulling in a breath to steady yourself.

“I don’t know,” you started, closing your eyes for a minute, trying to ground yourself. “I just–I thought this would be easier. We’re supposed to be in love and planning this should be fun, but it sucks and he–” catching yourself you looked back up at Steve and felt him squeeze your hand. “I’m sorry, it’s just stress. I shouldn’t–”

“You don’t have to apologize,” Steve said, thumb brushing over the bump of your knuckles, soft and warm and reassuring.

He was looking at you again like he had at the welcome party, like you were the only thing that existed in that moment and you felt yourself moving closer, your legs hovering over his with the lack of space.

“I wish Sam would look at me like that,” you whispered and Steve’s lips parted in surprise, anticipation grabbing hold of both of you as the wind picked up again.

“He’s an idiot if he doesn’t,” Steve whispered back, leaning closer still and you could feel his breath as it warmed over your cheek. The scent of his shampoo and spearmint gum and cedar and wildflowers flooding your brain and making everything feel hazy. His eyes all bright amber and flecks of gold in the sun. Closer and closer and closer and–

“Harrington! You left the food in the car!”

Leaning back from each other you felt the tension shatter with the bark of Eddie’s voice and you leapt to your feet.

“God, what a dingus,” Robin grumbled, “Now we gotta go back down.”

“Hey,” Steve scrambled to his feet ignoring them, grabbing your hand in his, “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, yeah I’m fine. I just–I forgot I have to meet with the baker today about the cake this morning.”

“Oh,” Steve’s expression was edged with concern and he let your hand drop as the others started moving to the top of the trail.

“Rehearsal dinner is tonight right?” Robin asked offhandedly, grabbing a piece of licorice from her fanny pack.

“You have licorice in there and didn’t offer me any?” Eddie accused.

“Yeah, tonight at seven at Hop and Joyce’s farm,” you said, trying to sound casual, but the warm feeling of Steve was still holding you tightly.

“Open bar?” Eddie grinned.

“Oh my god, Munson. Shut up,” Robin chided, shoving him as they all wandered down the path in a line, you and Steve bringing up the rear.

“Course it’s open bar,” you tried to laugh, but it fell short, everything feeling like it was crumbling now.

The breeze picked up, swirling around your feet, carrying spearmint and Steve’s shampoo and boy with it and as you watched the bachelor buttons sway with the wind you felt a thought gnawing at the back of your mind.

What if.

There was still time.

Nothing’s permanent.

People change their minds all the time and…

Come over here. All you've got is this moment, twenty-first century's yesterday. You can care all you want, everybody does, yeah, that's okay.

“Chug, chug, chug!” “Don’t be a pussy, Jason!” “No way, he’s too old!”

It felt like you were back in high school throwing a rager over at Tina Rochester’s house not having drinks after your rehearsal dinner, but after most of the ‘adults’ had all gone home things got carried away.

Hop and Joyce’s farm was far enough outside of town that the noise wouldn’t bother anyone and thank god because it was loud. Maybe open bar hadn’t been the best idea, but Sam was having a great time, smiling and laughing for once and you didn’t fight it. You were having fun too.

“Ohhh! He did it!!” “Get that man a medal!”

Jason Carver, Sam’s best man, crushed his empty beer can under his foot to whoops and hollers. You weren’t sure who started it, but someone had told someone else they could shotgun a beer faster and it spiraled from there. Sam was in his element, partying alongside the other ex-basketball players, and for a minute you felt like maybe things would be okay.

Gathering you up in his arms, Sam spun you in a circle, pressing his lips messy and drunk against your cheek. “God, babe. Should be illegal to look that good,” he slurred into your ear, arms still holding you tight as he lowered you slowly back to the ground.

A grin tugged at the corners of your lips. “Gonna write me a ticket?” you teased and he reached a hand around to grab at your ass.

“Maybe I will,” he breathed and you felt a shiver run down your spine, but then a voice pulled him away.

“Sam? Oh my god!”

Carol and Tommy. Great.

“Carol?? I didn’t think y’all were getting here til tomorrow! Tommy, you look like shit,” Sam barked a laugh and lunged at his old friend, grabbing him around the waist and pushing him across the patio.

“Fuck off, you’re one to talk,” Tommy growled back, digging his hands into Sam’s ribs and both of them fell back into their old selves. Talking about a couple of friends that had gone pro, work, what married life was like for Tommy and Carol.

“Babe, go get me another beer, huh?” Sam said over his shoulder and you rolled your eyes, but giving Carol a quick hug you made your way over to the keg.

Priming the tap you started to pour beer into a cup, but it sputtered and choked before spilling foam and you frowned. “Piece of shit,” kicking the keg you shook the garbage can it was sitting in and tried again, but this time nothing came out.

“Need a hand?”

Eyes still on the keg you sighed, a smile pulling at the corners of your lips as you dumped the foam in your cup onto the ground. “Tapped already,” you grumbled, turning around to see Steve grinning at you, hands jammed in his pockets, tie loose and hanging around his neck and you swore he was the most handsome human being you’d ever laid eyes on.

“Hmm, I don’t think so,” he took the last few steps toward you and primed the tap again, giving the keg one firm shake, and grabbed the cup from you. Foam started coming out and you jammed your tongue into your cheek.

“Ha! Told you–”

But then the foam turned into cold, amber beer, and you clamped your mouth shut.

“You were saying?” Steve teased and you shoved him, spilling some of the beer that he’d just poured into your cup on the ground. “Hey! You’re a menace,” he chided softly, shouldering you back, but grabbing the spout again he filled the cup once more and handed it back to you.

“Thanks,” you muttered, glancing over at him as you took a sip.

“Sam seems to be having a good time,” he commented, finding a cup of his own and filling it.

“Yeah, right back to high school.” You watched as your fiance, Tommy, and Jason all snickered and laughed at each other, talking about ‘the good old’ days, and your smile fell.

You couldn’t remember the last time he laughed like that with you. When he was drinking he got more handsy, liked to keep you close to his side and brag about how you were about to get married, but nothing about how hard you worked or the fact that you were saving up to buy a place.

“I dunno,” Steve sighed, taking a drink of his beer, “I don’t miss it.”

“Me either,” you agreed, glancing up at him, and your heart stopped.

God he was pretty. The string of lights that wound around the property washed him in a warm glow. Hair falling out of place as the night spun on, the line of his jaw cast in half light, dark and strong, the long sweep of his lashes as he blinked and looked down at you, the way his lips pulled up into that smile.

“What?” Steve asked, tone amused and playful and your eyes grew wide.

“What?” you echoed stupidly.

Steve laughed and gave you a lopsided smile. “You tell me, you’re the one zoning out,” he teased and your cheeks flushed.

“Oh, n-nothing,” you stumbled over your words and quickly filled the silence with another gulp of beer.

“Okay, well when it comes back to you lemme know.” His eyes lingered on yours for just a moment longer and then a look came over him. Like he remembered something. “Oh, hey. C’mere a minute,” and then he was grabbing your hand and pulling you around the side of the barn.

As he pulled you into motion you felt just how buzzed you were and a giggle pushed itself through your lips. “What the hell are we doing?” you asked, Steve loosing a laugh of his own as he yanked you both to a stop a few yards away from the party out in the long grass of Hop’s field.

“There,” he said pointing up and you followed the line of his arm into the sky until your eyes landed on it.

“Oh,” you breathed, pulling your gaze back to Steve as he looked up into the inky black expanse of the Indiana night. He was just how you remembered him. Hair messed, all boyish and eyes full of wonder and curiosity, just like he’d been those years ago that night in his backyard while you floated in his pool.

“Yeah, that one. Right there,” Steve swam closer to you, grabbing your arm, fingers folding yours in to make a point and tugging it up over your head.

Your breath hitched in your throat as his legs brushed against yours under the water and it took everything you had in you to pull your eyes from him to look up.

“See it?”

“That one?” you asked, pointing on your own, and he nodded as your eyes trailed up the line of your arm to land on an especially bright star.

“Mmhm,” Steve murmured and all you wanted was to look at him again, so you did. “While you’re gone you can just look up at that at night and think of me,” he said matter-of-fact, giving you one of his lopsided grins.

“What if we’re not looking at the same time?”

“I’ll always be looking,” Steve’s voice was barely above a whisper and the way he looked at you made you feel like you might melt. Blinking water from your lashes you lifted a hand to his cheek and at your touch his hands slipped along the bare skin of your waist, sliding down to your hips as he slowly pulled you into him.

The pool filter was humming heavy between the all crickets and frogs and lightning bugs, but you knew the thudding of your heartbeat was louder than all of it.

Wrapping your legs around Steve’s torso, you laced your fingers at the back of his neck, wanting him closer and tighter. Hair messed and flat against his forehead, his lips were parted as he breathed you in, water dripping off the end of his nose and eyes glittering in the pool lights, burnt caramel and honey and if he hadn’t been holding onto you, you would’ve floated away.

His fingers pressed into the soft skin at your hips and you sucked in a small gasp.

“Sorry,” he whispered, and you shook your head in reply. It’s okay. And then he gently pressed his thumb to the corner of your lips, swallowing against his nerves, and asked, “Can I kiss you?”

Heart racing, fingers still tangled at the back of his neck you whispered, “Yes.”

“Remember when we found it?”

Steve’s question brought you hurtling back to the present and you shook your head, heart racing in your chest like it had that night in his pool. “Of course I remember,” you murmured, and you knew you were crossing a line, knew you shouldn’t have done it, knew Sam was just around the other side of the barn, but something in you snapped. Shifted. Decided it didn’t care and you took Steve’s hand in yours.

His eyes flicked down to where they were joined and then back up to you, “But–”

“We’re friends,” you reasoned softly, “Friends hold hands.”

“Are we?” he asked and you swore you felt your heart crack as your fingers scrambled to tangle up with his.

“Yeah. Yes. We are,” your words came spilling out, the beer spidering warm and hazy through your body as you tried to justify your action and Steve’s brows furrowed as he dropped his gaze.

“I should go,” he said and regret gripped you like a vice.

“Don’t, please don’t,” your tone was almost pleading, watching as Steve’s eyes fluttered shut for a moment, working through his own decision and you thought for a minute he would cave like he always did for you, but then his hand was untangling from yours and the ache in your chest was almost enough to pull tears from your eyes.

“You’re getting married tomorrow,” he said, voice thick and low, and when he opened his eyes finally to look at you, you saw a thousand I’m sorrys, all the regret and lingering kisses on hot summer nights and promises whispered in the dark and you shook your head.

“But it’s not–we can’t–please stay,” nothing you said made sense and Steve ran a hand through his hair, pulling his lip between his teeth.

“Get some sleep. I’ll see you at the church.”

And as you watched his figure walk away, silhouetted and dark against the indigo sky, your star blinking bright above you, you felt tears finally well up and spill down your cheeks.

Sucking in a breath you turned back to the the wide open expanse of field behind you and buried your face in your hands, trying to calm down, willing the tears to stop, telling yourself that you loved Sam. You were getting married. The ring on your finger a constant reminder of what was supposed to happen tomorrow and when you finally lifted your head from your hands your eyes fell on a bright patch there in the field at your feet.

Wildflowers.

Walking back to the party felt like a blur, Steve’s words playing over and over in your mind, and when you came back into the glow of the strung up lights your eyes searched frantically for Sam. If you could just hold his hand, pull him in close you’d know you loved him. Would know you wanted to marry him, but he wasn’t there and everything felt like it was unraveling.

“Hey, are you okay?” Robin’s hand was at your elbow and when you looked up at her, her brow furrowed with worry. “Whoa, what happened?”

“I just need to find Sam, have you seen him?”

“Yeah, yeah I think he was just over here, c’mon. Are you sure you’re okay?”

“I just need Sam,” you choked out, Robin’s hand grabbing yours and pulling you along.

“Okay, we’ll find him, it’ll be okay.”

And as you rounded the corner into the quiet of the barn you heard hushed voices. Robin flicked on the overhead lighting to reveal Carol and Sam talking, huddled close to one another and your heart stopped in your chest.

“Wha–Sam? Carol?”

Carol’s eyes went wide and she took a couple steps back, giving you one of her smiles, all flimsy and saccharine sweet. “Oh my god, we thought you left!” she exclaimed, trying a laugh and you heard Robin mumble something under her breath next to you.

“Well, I didn’t. It’s my rehearsal dinner.”

“Babe, we were just trying to plan a surprise for you. For tomorrow, that’s all,” Sam said, taking the few steps toward you, taking your hand in his, but you felt sick to your stomach. You knew that look in his eye, his tone of voice overcompensating for something, lying.

“Yeah! Totally,” Carol said a little too enthusiastically and Robin had had enough.

“Oh my god, totally great!” she mocked, throwing one of Carol’s empty smiles back at her before taking your hand. “It’s super late, Carol. Time to go,” this time Robin’s voice was void of all joking and the look she gave the other girl was enough to push her to leave.

“Absolutely, sure thing. See you tomorrow! Can’t wait,” she purred, but her smile faltered as she met your gaze, walking quickly back out into the night.

“Babe, we really were planning a surprise, I–I just want tomorrow to be perfect,” Sam took your hand from Robin, shouldering her out of the way and she scoffed, still lingering in case you needed her.

“In here? In the dark?” your voice wobbled a bit as you realized what you were implying and Sam squeezed your hand, but it felt suffocating not warm or safe like Steve and you pulled it away. “I’m gonna go home, get some sleep.”

“Of course, baby. Whatever you need,” Sam crowded around you, rubbing your shoulders and pressing a kiss to the nape of your neck, but you didn’t want any of it and shrugged him off.

“Can you give me a ride, Robs?” you asked, pulling away from Sam, your feet not moving you fast enough.

“Yeah, yeah I can give you a ride,” Robin took your hand again, Sam finding himself alone in the wide expanse of the barn on the eve of your wedding.

The happiest day of your life.

“Listen, can I tell you something?” Robin said shifting into park as she turned down the radio and idled in your parents’ driveway.

“Sure,” your voice was small, timid, not you as your thoughts still lingered on what Steve had said. What Sam and Carol had looked like huddled close together in Hop’s barn. Asking yourself why. Asking yourself what you really wanted.

“I don’t think you should get married.”

Your head whipped up from your lap, brows knitted together. “What?”

“I don’t think you should get married,” Robin said again voice softer this time, knowing the weight it carried as she let it settle in the car between you.

“It’s literally happening tomorrow. What d’you mean don’t get married,” you were scrambling now, afraid of what would happen if you let her woods take root, the doubt that had been hovering deep down now pushing itself front and center.

“People do it all the time–”

“No, they don’t!” tears were welling up against your lashes, your face growing hot, willing yourself not to fall apart.

“Okay! Okay, I’m sorry. Of course I’m gonna support you no matter what you decide,” Robin quickly recovered, grabbing your hands in hers as her expression softened. “Just–” a small sigh escaped her and she squeezed your hand, “–I want you to be happy. That’s all. Are you happy?”

Are you happy?

Robin looked at you, eyes wide, hands still holding onto yours and you felt yourself wrestling with the three simple words she’d thrown at you. Swallowing thickly, you couldn’t meet her gaze and pulled your hands away, grabbing at the door handle.

“I’m happy, I am,” and even you knew how flimsy it sounded, but your friend didn’t push you on it.

“Okay, okay. See you in the morning,” Robin said softly and all you could do was nod in reply before shutting the door and hurrying up the walk and into your parents’ house.

You didn’t bother showering as you moved quickly up the stairs to your room, not wanting to face your parents, not like this. Quietly shutting your door you felt the sob in your chest clawing its way up your throat and you tried to swallow it down as you threw back your covers and hid in the deep pile of blankets. You thought for a split second to call Sam over at Jason’s, ask him if he really loved you, if he still wanted to go through with this, but you buried your face into your pillow and tried to push your thoughts away.

Doubt had started blooming in the pit of your stomach from the moment you’d said yes, but it had just felt like the next right thing. Felt like you were supposed to. Date your boyfriend for a couple of years, move in together, get married. Right? But the things you tried hard to ignore kept bubbling up.

Your hesitation when Sam first asked you out. Your trips home on breaks and seeing Steve. The feelings you wrestled with when you saw him. When he talked to you and listened, really listened and looked at you. How it felt like a giant weight being lifted from your shoulders without Sam there.

Your first fight with Sam over money. How he spent so much of it going out with his friends. How you knew they stayed out late and talked to other girls. The high he got from it too much to stop him from doing it. The smell of the other girls on his clothes.

The first time he cheated on you and begged you to take him back. How the first person you wanted to call was Steve, but you called Robin instead.

And now the planning. All the disagreements and arguing and fighting and you were exhausted and he couldn’t even keep away from other women, from Carol, still after all that time.

Are you happy?

Robin’s question looped in your head and you knew the real answer.

No. But then…

Tap. Tap, tap tap.

Peeking your head out from under your covers your ears strained, trying to decide what it was you’d heard. Then it happened again.

Tap, tap. Tap.

There was only one thing that could make that sound, an all too familiar one that pulled forth a flood of precious, happy memories.

Rocks on your window.

Steve.

Crawling out of your bed you hurried to your window and yarded it open, sticking your head out and looking down like you’d done hundreds of times before. “Steve?” you hissed into the dark, and as the wind blew the clouds away from the moon, it shone down on the lawn below you washing Steve in soft light.

“Can I come up?”

You bit your bottom lip between your teeth, but knew there was no debate. “Yeah, hurry up,” and you moved out of the way as he started climbing the gutter before you’d even said yes.

Stumbling in through the open window Steve straightened up and dusted off his old, faded Hawkins High Athletics shirt, a pair of grey sweatpants hanging on his hips, the same pair of dirty, beat up Blazers on his feet.

“Hi,” he said awkwardly, tongue jammed into his cheek as he rubbed the back of his neck.

“Hi?” it came out expectantly, a question, but you couldn’t hide the relief in your voice at the sight of him standing there in your room.

“Listen, I just wanted to say sorry. For earlier,” he said, walking to your bed and plopping down on the messed up covers.

“Oh, that’s okay, I shouldn’t have–”

“Just let me apologize,” he said shaking his head with a half laugh, expression mismatched as it twisted with something between regret and care.

So you listened and kept your mouth shut, instead deciding to settle down next to him on your bed, thighs pressed together on the small twin sized mattress. Silence lingered for a minute, but the air was heavy, loaded, like how it felt right before a thunderstorm. The sky holding its breath before opening up and pouring rain, cracking the sky in half with bright streaks of light.

You both stole a look at the same time and it pulled a smile from each of you, tiny breathy laughs falling from your lips, but when it quieted again the tension flooded back in.

“Do you love him?” Steve broke the quiet and you felt your chest tighten. When you hesitated he grabbed your hand in his. “Do you?”

Your pulse fluttered against your neck, your mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water and stumbling and choking on your words, but you knew the answer. You both did. You’d just admitted it to yourself before Steve had fallen through your window and the familiar feeling of panic started to creep in around you, flinging you back to right before you’d left home again. Before you met Sam.

“Steve! Wait!”

You were practically running after him as he stalked back to his car, the sky on fire with the sunset and streaked in cherry reds, sunflower yellows, and bright tangerine.

He fumbled with his keys and dropped them into the grass at his feet, “Shit.”

“Please, just wait,” you were out of breath as you finally reached him and you saw his frame crumple as he loosed a sigh.

“Jesus, what?” his tone was short, clipped as he stared through his car window, your reflection playing against the glass.

“It’s only for another year, it’s not like I’m gonna be gone for–”

“Yeah! Another year!” Steve spun around to face you, cheeks red and lips pulled down into a frown, a muddied mixture of sadness and anger swimming in his eyes. “Just admit it, you don’t wanna come back here, and that’s fine! But don’t make me wait. Please don’t make me wait anymore. It–” Steve choked on his words and dropped his eyes to his feet, biting on the inside of his cheek to blunt the feelings swelling his chest. “It hurts. To sit and wait here for you. Please,” his voice edged on pleading and you felt tears prick at the corners of your eyes.

“It’ll work! It’s just a little longer–”

Steve took a step into you, crowding over you, and you felt your heart stutter in your chest at the closeness of him. He lifted a hand to your cheek, his brows pulling together as he looked down at you, eyes searching yours. “Then be with me. If it’s not that long then be with me. Long distance for a little while until you’re done with school,” he said, voice barely above a whisper.

“Steve. I can’t–” your throat tightened around what you were about to say, scared of what that commitment looked like, scared to fuck it up between you, scared to lose your best friend, but your hesitation broke it anyway.

He dropped his hand away from your cheek, tongue flicking out to run along his lips as he held back his anger. His sadness. Frustration. Snatching his keys from the grass he unlocked the driver side door and flung it open rough.

“No! Wait! I just mean–”

“No!” he shouted into his car and then lowered his voice, tears streaming silently down his cheeks, “No. No more. Good luck with…everything.” And he piled into his car, slamming the door shut and ignoring your cries as you crowded against his window, asking him to stay. To talk about it. To figure things out, but he shifted it in drive and took off down your driveway and into the night.

You weren’t going to fuck it up. Not again.

“No,” and as your admission left your lips the heavy weight that had settled on your shoulders over the last two years started to melt away. “No. I don’t love him.”

Steve’s hold on you tightened, pressing your fingers into his palm and he lifted his free hand to your cheek, eyes searching yours, “Don’t marry him.”

Don’t marry him.

Your breath quickened and you pulled your bottom lip between your teeth, trying to reason out what you’d just decided and you felt anxious, but Steve was there. And your room was warm and safe. Just like it was when you were younger. When you both laughed and traded secrets and made promises to each other in the dark.

“But. The wedding. The flowers, the cake, the guests–”

“Fuck ‘em,” Steve said, still holding onto your hand, and his words swirled around in your head. “It’s only a wedding. This is your life,” brushing the rough pad of his thumb across your cheek you closed your eyes and leaned into his touch, “You’re not happy.”

And you weren’t. You’d had moments with Sam, moments in time where things felt right and like maybe it could be forever, but they were just that. Moments. It shouldn’t be this hard. You’d sacrificed, compromised, bent and twisted yourself to be what Sam wanted, what he needed, not what you wanted and when you finally looked up at Steve you felt tears welling up against your lashes.

“What will my mom say,” your voice wobbled as you tangled your fingers with Steve’s and he gave you a small, reassuring smile.

“She wants you to be happy too. She’ll be okay.”

You were dizzy, hazy with thoughts of not being engaged anymore, buzzing with the anticipation of what this decision meant. Of what it held. What the future could be and you looked back up at Steve, tears started to quietly spill down your cheeks and his hand was quick to gently wipe them away. You shook your head, holding your breath, and when you let it go everything came tumbling out.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry for making you wait. For hurting you. For everything–”

“Shh, it’s okay,” Steve softly chided, but you pressed on.

“No, no it’s my turn,” you said, voice thick through your tears, and then you turned to cup Steve’s face in your hands. A small smile pulled up at the corners of your mouth even through your crying and you pulled in a breath, “I love you, Stevie. I always have.”

The look on his face then was one of pure adoration, of relief, and he gave you a smile back, “I know. I love you too.”

I love you too.

Pulling him into you, you felt the soft warmth of his breath across your cheek, the smell of his shampoo and fresh laundry flooding your senses. Hesitating, waiting for him to tell you it was okay and he silently answered you by leaning in and closing the gap between your lips, pressing his softly into yours.

It was slow and languid, a thousand I love yous. Years of want and aching set free into the dark of your room as you breathed each other in like air. The feeling of Steve scattering you out into the stars to live with the one you’d deemed as yours, falling between all the glittering constellations and floating in each other.

I love you too.

Reluctantly Steve pulled away from you, eyes fluttering open to look into yours and he took hold of your waist. “Run away with me,” he whispered.

Your brows pulled together, “Run away?”

“Yeah. Right now. Throw your suitcase in my car and we’ll just drive. Get away from everything, just for a little while until you’re ready.”

Mind racing, working through the logistics of what he was suggesting, you almost protested, but something in you fought back. Told you to listen to your heart, not your head. What did you want? What would make you happy?

“Okay.”

“Really?” Steve’s face lit up at your response, like he hadn’t expected it, and you felt your lips pull up into a smile, tears drying on your cheeks as you let the feeling swallow you up in its warmth. The embers in your chest crackling and flickering with life, with a fire that burned only for him.

“Yeah, yeah I don’t care. I just want to be with you,” you felt yourself grow more and more confident, more decided and Steve pulled you in again to press another kiss to your lips. This time it was hotter, bolder, a confession of passion and you grinned into him.

“C’mon, if we go now we can get coffee at that shitty diner just off the highway outside of town,” he was grinning now too.

“They make the best pancakes,” you laughed softly and Steve’s smile melted as he looked at you.

Finally.

He helped you gather your things, carrying your suitcase out to his car, and you felt like you could fly. Lighter than you’d been in years and the thought of just driving down the road with him filled you with warmth. Like watching the sun set at the end of a hot summer day. Like dipping your feet in the pool after sitting in the heat. Sweet like the taste that followed after a tart drink of lemonade.

You left your engagement ring on your dresser, a small folded note under it for Sam telling him sorry. Telling him you hoped he would find what he wanted. That you knew he’d be okay. And as you closed the door to your parents’ house you felt like you were closing that chapter. Ready to start new. To free fall into this open-ended story with Steve and as you settled into his car your eyes caught a small patch of lawn on the side of your house. Bright and soft in the moonlight and full of color.

Wildflowers.

crappymixtape™ • steve harrington masterlist // stranger things masterlist

[deliciousangelfestival]

Love Lesson || Bucky Barnes (One-Shot)

Character : College!Bucky x College!Reader

Words Count: 2,265

Summary: Y/N's academic challenges lead to an unexpected romance, changing her life and future in surprising ways.

Theme: Fluff

Main Masterlist || support: Ko-fi

Thank you to anyone who gave a like, reblog, and left a comment. It motivated me to write more. 

Y/N and her friends were gathered at their favorite campus cafe, sipping on their lattes and chatting about the usual topics. Y/N was known among her friends for her beauty, and it wasn't uncommon for her to receive love confessions from various admirers.

Today was no exception. A fellow student approached her with a bashful smile and a heartfelt confession of admiration.

The admirer said, "Y/N, you're so amazing. I've had feelings for you for a long time. Will you be my girlfriend?"

Y/N, known for her kind and polite nature, smiled and thanked the admirer for their confession before asking a rather unconventional question, "What's your grade score in this semester's exams?"

Taken aback by the unexpected question, the admirer stammered, "Well, I'm not really into academics, but I'm great at other things."

Y/N's smile remained, but her response was clear, "I appreciate your feelings, but I'm looking for someone who's serious about their studies. I've had my share of handsome bad boys, and now I want someone smart and dedicated."

Her friends, who had witnessed this scene many times before, chuckled at Y/N's criteria for a potential partner. Y/N had outgrown the allure of handsome troublemakers and was seeking a different kind of connection, one that revolved around intelligence and academic ambition.

They couldn't help but playfully tease Y/N about the idea of her being with Bucky the famous campus nerd.

Emily: "Hey, Y/N, have you seen Bucky Barnes? He's like the campus nerd. Imagine dating him!"

Y/N, not thrilled with the idea, shrugged off the suggestion, "Come on, Bucky's way too quiet for me. I prefer someone more outgoing."

Steve and Sam, friends of Bucky, overheard the teasing from Y/N's friends about the possibility of Y/N being with Bucky. They couldn't resist sharing the humorous comments with Bucky.

Steve, with a grin: "Hey, Bucky, you won't believe what we heard. Y/N's friends were joking about her dating you, the campus nerd."

Bucky, who had always been reserved, smiled at the jesting comments. He didn't take them too seriously but was curious about this Y/N whom he had only heard of in passing.

Bucky Barnes was well-known on campus, primarily for his remarkable intellect and dedication to his studies. He was often referred to as the "campus nerd" by his peers, particularly in his computer science class.

Despite his nerdy reputation, Bucky was a kind and genuine individual. Whenever his classmates ask for help, Bucky will help them.

**********

Y/N was in her dorm room, trying to enjoy a rare moment of relaxation when her phone rang. She saw her grandmother's name on the caller ID and answered with trepidation.

Y/N: "Hello, Grandma."

Mrs. Johnson, her voice dripping with frustration, responded, "Y/N, I just saw your latest report card, and I am absolutely furious! Your grades are abysmal, and I won't stand for this any longer!"

Y/N, attempting to lighten the mood, quipped, "Well, Grandma, at least I'm not the one making the family fortune disappear in the stock market, right?"

Mrs. Johnson, not one to back down, retorted, "Touché, my dear. But we're talking about your future here! If your grade getting worse I will cut your allowance!"

Y/N, now feeling the pressure, replied, "I understand, Grandma. I'll make studying my top priority from now on, and I promise not to invest in any more 'get-rich-quick' schemes."

The call from her angry grandmother served as a wake-up call for Y/N. Y/N's grandmother, the famous CEO, had always been a beacon of intelligence and success.

Johnson Corporation is a well-established and highly successful conglomerate that operates in various sectors, including technology, finance, and real estate. Under the leadership of Mrs. Johnson, the company has grown to become a major player in the global business landscape. Known for its innovative solutions and strategic investments, the corporation is renowned for its commitment to excellence and its dedication to pushing the boundaries of industry standards. It stands as a testament to the Johnson family's legacy of business acumen and leadership.

However, it seemed that this remarkable intelligence had skipped a generation or two. Y/N's father had chosen a carefree lifestyle of constant travel with her mother, making every day feel like a honeymoon. They prioritized adventure and leisure over academia.

On the other hand, Y/N, despite her family's legacy, found herself grappling with math and her academic performance. Her struggles with the subject only added to her frustration, as she tried to live up to her grandmother's expectations and overcome the academic challenges she faced.

Mrs. Johnson hopes that Y/N will embrace her family's legacy and take on the responsibility of continuing the hard work and success that she has built. She desires to see a positive change in Y/N to ensure the family's bloodline carries on the business legacy.

As Y/N pondered how to resolve her academic issues, she found herself in a conversation with her lecturer one day. Little did she know that this conversation would introduce her to someone who would change her life.

Lecturer: "Y/N, I've noticed you're struggling with your grades. I'd like to introduce you to someone who might be able to help. This is Bucky Barnes, one of our top students. He's known for his dedication to academics."

Y/N, taken aback by the introduction, looked at Bucky, who was standing there with his kind but studious expression. She couldn't help but feel a spark of curiosity.

Bucky, shifting nervously, managed a small smile and said, "Hi there, I'm Bucky Barnes. I'm not as interesting as my physics textbooks, but I promise I'm helpful with those."

Y/N, charmed by Bucky's humility and humor, couldn't help but chuckle, "Well, Bucky, I'm Y/N, and I promise not to make you as bored as a physics lecture."

Their lighthearted exchange during their first meeting set the stage for their unique connection, blending Y/N's outgoing nature with Bucky's shy, endearing personality.

Y/N and Bucky had started their regular study sessions in the campus library, with books and laptops spread across the table. Y/N, dressed in her stylish, confident manner, was determined to improve her grades, while Bucky, the campus nerd, was there to assist her.

Y/N would occasionally struggle with the material, but Bucky's patient explanations and tutoring skills made it easier for her to grasp complex concepts.

Bucky's friends, Steve and Sam, sat with him in the campus courtyard, discussing his recent interactions with Y/N.

Steve: "So, Bucky, we heard you've been spending a lot of time with Y/N lately. What's going on there?"

Bucky: "Well, I'm tutoring her, you know, helping her with her grades."

Sam, with a teasing grin, chimed in, "Tutoring? Is that what they call it these days?"

Bucky: "No, really, it's just tutoring. She was struggling, and I offered to help."

Steve: "Come on, Bucky, we know you're a brainiac, but hanging out with Y/N? It's hard to believe."

Bucky, feeling a bit defensive, said, "She's actually really cool once you get to know her. We're just friends."

Sam, raising an eyebrow, added, "Friends, huh? Well, if you say so."

Bucky chuckled seeing his friend's reaction. Y/N actually were cool. But he has to admit her understanding of mathematics needs help.

Bucky encourages Y/N to work on an exercise without directly revealing that it's challenging, with the intention of helping her improve her grades and spend more time with her.

Bucky: "Y/N, I've come across an exercise that I think could be really beneficial for your studies. Working on this will help you make great progress."

Y/N, eager to improve her academic performance, took Bucky's suggestion seriously and worked diligently on the exercise.

***********

Y/N and Bucky were sitting in the campus library, their study materials spread out in front of them. The atmosphere was relaxed as they exchanged notes and discussed their coursework. Suddenly, Y/N dropped the bombshell:

Y/N: "Oh, by the way, Bucky, my grandmother wants to meet you."

Bucky's eyes widened in shock, almost dropping his pen.

Bucky: "Wait, what? Your grandmother? You mean, like, your incredibly successful and impressive grandmother wants to meet me?"

Y/N couldn't help but giggle at Bucky's flustered reaction.

Y/N: "Yep, that's exactly it. She's quite impressed with how you've been helping me improve my grades, and she's curious to meet you."

Bucky, still slightly overwhelmed, stammered, "I...I don't know what to say. I mean, that's...that's quite a surprise."

Y/N reassured him with a warm smile, "You don't have to worry, Bucky. Just be yourself.

Bucky felt nervous but excited since he had always regarded Y/N's grandmother as an accomplished and inspiring figure. The prospect of meeting his idol made him understandably nervous.

On the night of the dinner, Bucky arrived at Mrs. Johnson's elegant residence with Y/N, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. He knew this was a significant moment and hoped to make a good impression on the successful businesswoman who had also become Y/N's role model.

During a family dinner, Y/N's grandmother, Mrs. Johnson, couldn't help but notice the bond between Y/N and Bucky.

Mrs. Johnson: "You know, Y/N, Bucky here is quite the intelligent young man. It would be nice to have a smart son-in-law, don't you think?"

Y/N turned beet red with embarrassment, stuttering, "Grandma, it's not like that!"

Bucky, who had taken the comment seriously, smiled and said, "Well, Mrs. Johnson, I'll do my best to live up to your expectations."

******

As Y/N and Bucky's friendship blossomed, an unexpected turn of events shook their world. Y/N received news that her grandmother, the successful CEO of Johnson Corporation, had suddenly fallen seriously ill. Mrs. Johnson, aware of her condition, appointed Y/N as the temporary director of the company. This decision was based not only on family ties but also on Y/N's substantial ownership of the company's shares.

Y/N was faced with the daunting responsibility of managing the family business during her grandmother's illness.

Y/N had been thrust into the role of temporary director of her family's company, and the pressure was beginning to weigh on her. She felt overwhelmed and scared by the responsibilities that came with the position.

Y/N, her voice trembling with anxiety, turned to Bucky:

Y/N: "Bucky, I'm really scared. I don't know if I can handle all of this. My grandmother has put so much trust in me, and I don't want to let her down."

Bucky, ever the supportive friend, reached out and gently placed his hand on Y/N's.

Bucky: "Y/N, I know this is a lot to take on, but you're stronger than you realize. You've got an incredible work ethic and a smart mind. You can do this. And I'll be right here beside you, helping you every step of the way."

Y/N looked into Bucky's eyes, finding solace in his words and his unwavering support. His reassurance gave her the confidence to face the challenges ahead.

As Y/N and Bucky navigated the challenges of managing the family business and excelling in their studies, they found themselves drawn closer together. Their shared experiences, their support for each other, and the time they spent working side by side had forged a deep and unbreakable connection.

One evening, as they wrapped up another long day of work, they found themselves sitting in the office, a comfortable silence enveloping them. Y/N was the first to break it, her voice soft and full of emotion.

Y/N: "Bucky, I don't know what I would have done without you. You've been my anchor, my support through all of this. I've come to realize that you mean the world to me."

Bucky, his heart racing, couldn't hold back his feelings any longer. His eyes filled with affection, replied, "Y/N, from the moment we met, my life has been filled with light and joy because of you. You're everything I've ever dreamed of, and I'm deeply in love with you."

Y/N's heart swelled with emotion, and she leaned in to press a soft, romantic kiss to Bucky's lips. Their affectionate gesture gradually deepened, the passion of their newfound love igniting as they kissed passionately and shared their hearts in this intimate moment, cementing their bond even further.

Epilogue:

In a surprising turn of events, it was revealed that Y/N's grandmother, Mrs. Johnson, had not been sick as initially thought. Instead, she had embarked on a long-planned vacation, taking a well-deserved break from her busy life as the CEO of Johnson Corporation.

Mrs. Johnson's phone chimed with an incoming text, and she couldn't help but smile when she read the message:

"Y/N and Bucky have confessed their love for each other."

Mrs. Johnson, with a sly grin, simply muttered to herself: "Well, isn't that a delightful turn of events! My matchmaking skills are impeccable, even from a beach."

-End-

Forever Taglist:

@magnificentsaladllama, @esotericgalaxy, @xcaptain-winterx, @buckysteveloki-me, @cherrybubblebullet, @bagoffeelings, @darkofimagination, @starsofcloud @shamrockqueen, @shinytreefire, @thezombieprostitute

[michaellangdonswhore]

Hi, I just saw you poste so here I am? maybe an ethan landry x reader who is smiliar to stu (Personality wise?) you can choos reader gender. like the act 3 there it reaveld that ethan is one of the ghostface and reader is quite sad/grumpy cause they like him and know he is a killer. "Man, I really wanna date you ):, but i cant cause rules of friendship, like you wanna kill my friends.... " I am sorry if this is not very specific but do what you wanna with it :)

warnings: like none this is just a blurb. prob bad I wrote this so quick and I don't feel like proofreading because I want to write something else. xoxo

word count: 1.6k

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

There's three of them and there's three of you. You stand with your friends, Tara and Sam, severally injured. Detective Bailey was standing with a gun pointed towards you with two masked killers standing next to him.

"You?" Tara scoffs.

"Yeah, of course me," Bailey shrugs. "Frankly I expected more from you after what you did to us."

"Us?" You repeat.

The person next to him begins to take off his mask, revealing a smily familiar figure beneath.

You scoff, because out of all of your friends, you genuinely didn't believe it was him. Sure, everyone joked about it, but he was... he just seemed to innocent. Ethan seemed so vanilla.

Also, you liked him, so you were a firm Ethan defender. No matter how many times you were told to trust no one; especially Ethan after Anika was murdered, you did.

You just couldn't believe it. Ethan- who you had confided in, cried to, almost made out with had pretty much, quite literally, stabbed you in the back.

"Mindy was right. It was easy to juke the roommate lottery," He spoke, so confidently, which was so unlike him.

This really hurt- in many different ways. You actually thought you knew him and understood him. You had never seen this person before.

"I mean all I had to do to meet you was room with a conceited, condensing alpha literally named Chad. Fuck, it felt good to kill him!"

He presents his mask.

"This was your grandmothers, Sam. Nancy Loomis? Really runs in your fucking family, doesn't it? Speaking of family..."

"Wait for it..."

"My name's not Ethan Landry!" He says excitedly. "Is it, dad?"

Well, isn't he just full of surprises.

"Dad?" Tara scoffs.

"Well then that just leaves..." Sam looks at the only one unmasked. "Mindy?"

Luckily, it's not.

"Hey, roomie," Quinn says. "You didn't see that one coming, did you?"

"Well, yeah, we all thought you were dead," You scoff. You turn to Tara and Sam. "That's one way to get off the suspect list. Creative, I must say."

"Yeah, you'd be amazed what a grieving father could get away with." Bailey says.

Ethan's staring you down with a hungry look in his eyes. It was all a game to him.

You can't help but actually roll your eyes in the situation. The audacity you have. This ends with all out hell breaking loose-

Quinn slices deep into your arm with her knife and Bailey starts laughing.

"You stay the fuck away from her!" Tara yells as you stumble back, beginning to look for an exit plan.

This was not how it was supposed to go.

Why couldn't it have been someone else? Anyone but him? You just felt so stupid.

"What is this?" You ask them all, specifically Ethan. "You did this as a family?"

"She should know better than anyone," Ethan shoots a dagger at Sam.

"I don't know what you believe, but I didn't commit the murders at Woodsboro!" Sam groans, sick of explaining the same thing over and over again.

"We know that. What do you think this is? You think this is based on some bullshit conspiracy theory? Bailey scoffs. He gives Sam a pitiful look. "Come on. Who do you think started those rumors in the first place?"

Quinn raises her hand and laughs, "Do you know how easy it was to turn Sam from the hero of Woodsboro into the villain? How easy it was to convince the world to believe the worst in people rather than the best?"

"It's not enough to just kill someone these days," Ethan adds, "You have to assassinate their character first. So when dad here discovers your horribly mutilated bodies, posed with Sam wearing her father's mask, he'll say some poor dumb bastard read on the internet that you're the real ghost face and took matters into their own deluded hands."

"It's the perfect alibi!" Bailey chuckles. "And all the best lies are based on truth."

He points to Sam, "You're a killer. Just like your father."

"No, I'm not!" She yells back.

"Yes you are, motherfucker, you killed our brother!" Quinn screams.

"What are you talking about?"

Great. Another surprise.

So, Ethan's a killer. Quinn's not dead. And their brother was the last ghost face. Great.

"You told us your brother died in a car accident," You shoot daggers at Ethan.

"No, you sweet dumb thing. He died at Woodsboro."

He's pointing his knife up, using it to make a point.

"You're Richie's family?" Sam looks distraught.

"Yeah," Bailey nods.

There's an awkward moment of silence, interrupted by Ethan stabbing Sam in the chest and filling the room with laughter.

"She's finally starting to get it!" He exclaims.

"Have I been a perfect dad? No. Have I maybe over indulged in Richie's interests in these movies? Yeah. He even made a few of his own. There's a very special bond between a father and his first son."

"Ouch." You look over at Ethan, impulsively. "That's gotta sting."

You take another small cut to the shoulder from Quinn. You couldn't tell why she wouldn't just kill you right then and there; it would certainly get the point across.

"What?" You look offended- almost as if you weren't meaning to be offensive. You look back up at Bailey. "And just because you sucked at raising your kid doesn't mean you get to take it out on... literally children."

"Yeah, well I think we're a little past that point now," Bailey sighs.

You open up your mouth, gaining your voice back before Quinn nips at you again, causing nothing but a wince to escape your throat. She's warning you for interrupting.

"I built a tribute to my son," Bailey continues. "This is where you have to die, Sam. Because everyone dies, Sam!"

He's beginning to rile up, pointing his gun at her now.

"Everyone that had to do with the death of my son has to die." He says. "Put on the mask."

"He was a man baby." Sam smirks. "He made his girlfriend do all the killing for him."

Quinn begins to charge at her, but Tara manages to knock her away, and that's when Kirby decides to wake up and shoot Bailey to the ground. Ethan then tackles her, stabbing her harshly in the abdomen in the process.

You act swiftly, taking a nearby brick on the floor at charge at him, slamming the brick into his head and knocking him off of Kirby.

The knife is still in her stomach, you and Ethan fighting each other on the floor in the corner while everyone else does their thing. You notice Sam and Tara climbing somewhere out of the corner of your eye. You want to get to them, but this might be the last time you can ever have your hands on him again.

It's almost if he's not fighting back, though; and it's like you're not fighting hard enough. It's like you're scolding him, like a wife hitting her husband with a dish towel for not liking the food. Except it's with a brick in your hands.

And he's laughing at you while you're doing this, knows that you couldn't possibly hurt him.

"Stop."

"Stop what?" He smirks. "You're the one hitting me with a brick."

"Stop laughing!" You groan. "This isn't funny."

You hit him a little harder.

"Ow!" He grabs his arm. He rolls his eyes and walks back to Kirby. "Where's my knife?"

As he retrieves it, you hear a gunshot and then see Tara swinging off the balcony, being held up by Sam. Ethan has his knife now, and he's swinging at Tara.

This is your moment to act again; you charge at him once more, bringing him to the ground. Not to your surprise, he overpowers you and is now holding you tight, knife pointed at your neck to ensure that you don't move. Bailey's gun is aimed at Tara, but now switching between the both of you.

"Take care of her, Ethan," Bailey says, aggravated that this is taking so long.

He nods, dragging you into the corner of the room; and then into a separate room. You're trying to fight back, kicking and digging your nails into his skin.

You know he won't kill you. He would've already.

Once you're alone, completely alone, he loses his grips. However, he's still holding tight enough to prevent you from moving anywhere.

It's silent for a moment. Neither one of you are talking.

"If I wasn't like this..." He begins. "If I didn't do this-"

"What?" You ask. "Would I have considered being with you?"

He awkwardly blushes. What a time to blush.

"You always did read me so well."

"Clearly not well enough." You groan and roll you eyes, escaping his grasp and pushing him off of you. You're not fighting him, and he's not trying to fight you, but you are keeping your guard up in case he decides to attack.

But he won't.

"So?"

"How can you expect me to answer that?" You question. "Like yeah, I would've loved to date you, but you're kind of trying to kill my friends and me. So, I don't really think the whole relationship thing would work out."

He sighs.

"I should've asked you out sooner," He says after a moment of silence.

"Yeah, you really should've." You snap back.

It's weird. This is the Ethan you knew. It's like he's back. Ghostface or not, your dynamic hasn't changed.

Your brief moment of peace was interrupted quickly though with another gunshot. This freed you of your delusion- that he was this normal guy.

Freed from his grasp, you ran back to the main room to find your friends perfectly fine. Both Quinn and Bailey basically looked dead, and Sam was in the Ghostface robes. You figured some sort of poetic justice had occurred.

But now it's three against one, and there's nothing you could do to save him.

[marmorafarms]

Some DILF Sebastian HCs!

For @lavendel081 hehe because she draws the best daddy Seb. And I mean that literally, he looks so cute with his children!!!

Wasn't 100% sure he wanted to be a dad. Sam wanted to be a dad since he was like, 7, so it was a given that that man would have kids. But Seb was always like...eh.

The kids were planned. Robin built the nursery when you wanted your house renovated and he got embarrassed. But then he thought about it, brought it up, and you guys decided to start trying.

Robin is very pleased her idea worked, and is an amazing grandmother.

Sebastian decides to get to know Maru and Demetrius more after the first baby. He wants his kid to have a good relationship with them. Turns out, he and Maru have a lot in common, and they start hanging out more.

He and Demetrius are both socially awkward, but that's all they have in common. Well, other than the fact that they love the new baby! They bond over their love for their family.

One of the babies is named after Sebastian's dad. The middle name though, not the first.

Sebastian wants a big family after having the first baby, but you guys realize two kids is a lot to handle, how will you do more?

He is very protective of his daughter, but not in a creepy way. He doesn't have those "I'm gonna shoot you if you date my daughter" outfits for his daughter or anything. He's just very aware of how society is towards women and is protective.

He makes his son chug Respect Women Juice every morning.

His favorite age was 2, his least favorite age was 16.

Teenagers are a PAIN. He started buying his mom flowers once he realized the shit he put her through in his teen years.

Wait he has to do teen years TWICE??? Damn, maybe sticking with two kids was a good idea.

That's what I have for now!

[sebstan2020]

Red Ties

Chapter 15

Mary, a sweet Christian girl living in the city of Brooklyn as a nurse had a simple life. She loved her work, her friends and attending church every Sunday and helping Reverend McCarthy. Her life was nothing out of the ordinary. However, it all changed one day when she bumps into the intriguing and intimidating James Barnes, Brooklyn’s notorious mafia boss and is introduced to a world of guns, lust and dominance.

Warnings: BDSM, Dom/Sub, Mafia, Violence, Gang, SMUT, Sex, Possessive Bucky, Overprotectiveness, Bondage, Sexual Themes, Dark Themes, Guns, Drugs, Gang Violence

“Thank you,” Mary said softly as she took the glass of lemonade from James. She was sat at one of the high stools at the bar, sitting ever so straight. All those years of being forced to sit up straight in lessons at school were paying off for her posture and back. Bucky had poured himself a glass of whiskey, gulping it down, the taste barely burning his throat. He was used to the strong alcohol, having started it at the young age of 17. His father was a big drinker, not to the point where he lost control but working in this life, a whiskey calmed his nerves as did it for James. 

“I like your friend, Steve,” she said and James chuckled. He was plating up their dinner. A tender piece of beef in a rich sauce with roasted vegetables and sautéed potatoes. Normally Sam did the cooking around here but tonight James wanted to cook for Mary. His grandmother taught him well as did his mother and if he had the time to cook he’d do it more often. But tonight was a special occasion. 

“He’s a loud mouth at times, doesn’t know when to shut up,” he said and Mary giggled. 

“But I trust him the most” he smiled and took the plates. The food smelled delicious and Mary’s mouth watered, her stomach rumbling. He placed the plates at the grand table and nodded over for Mary to come. She slipped off the table, padding over and James pulled out her chair for her. 

“Thanks” she smiled as he pushed her in, his hands just grazing her shoulders sending a tingle through her body and he sat beside her at the head of the table. 

“This looks amazing, do you cook often?” She said as James slipped into his seat. 

“Not as much as I’d like to. I’m a busy man. Sam normally does the cooking though, he’s amazing. Was born in Louisiana so he has a thing for spices” he smirked. 

“Is he another friend of yours”.

“Yes, he works for me as well,” he said as he draped the napkin over his knee. 

“Does he live here with you?” She asked and he nodded. She imagined he didn't live on his own in this humongous house. You’d get pretty lonely if you did. 

James was about to tuck into his dinner when he peaked over at Mary and stopped. Silently she pressed her hands together and spoke to herself softly, a few words being coherent and he realised she was saying grace. It warmed him inside, watching her be thankful for the food he cooked. He’d never seen such a thing with his own eyes. Like he said before his family was never religious and he doubted they could even step foot in a church with the sins they’ve committed. Perhaps selfishly though he enjoyed watching her say thanks just like his submissives would when he was dominating them, punishing them, fucking them until they came over and over again. Although saying grace and thanking him for an orgasm wasn’t even the slightest bit similar, he enjoyed watching it. 

He smiled softly as she finished and looked over at him. To break the silence, he picked his glass up and cheered with hers, sipping and returning to his dinner.

“Do you always say grace?” He asked and she nodded. 

“Pretty much, it’s different when it's just me on my own and if I’ve made the food but I try to in the company of others and if someone else has made it” She dug Into the tender beef, the meat just falling apart and melting in her mouth. 

“Sometimes though I feel I should ask, otherwise it looks a bit weird” She laughed nervously. 

“No… I like it” he murmured. It only showed how innocent she was, her kind and sweet nature and how thankful she was for everything. Dinner was delicious and didn’t take long to eat.

“That was amazing James,” James smirked. Standing and gathering the plates. He was a sucker for a compliment here and there and her saying his food was amazing was just what he wanted to hear. 

“Thank you, my grandmother and mother taught me how to cook so I owe it all to them,” he shrugged, placing the plates in the sink. He’d wash them up later or get one of the guys to do it. Right now he had his girl to attend to and was going to give her every bit of his attention. He brought over another lemonade for her and a whiskey for him, slumping down in the chair. 

“I wish I could cook like that, I’m useless when it comes to food” she admitted. 

“Well maybe I can teach you one day, I can tell you all the little tricks and secrets my grandmother passed down to me,” he said. 

“I’d probably end up ruining the food, knowing me I’ll set the smoke alarm off” James laughed. He couldn’t imagine her being bad at anything. 

“I’m sure you’re not that bad” he twiddled the glass with his fingers, his rings clinking on the glass and the light catching them. 

“I’m always so busy though so I never have time to cook. I usually end up throwing something in the oven or ordering in”.

“I imagined you to be a really good cook”. Mary slightly blushed at that thought and James bit the inside of his lip. Why did the colour of her cheeks changing make him want to grab her and fuck her on this table?

“My mom was an amazing cook and when she died, my dad and I just lived off simple dinners or ready meals so I never really learned”.

“Next time I teach you,” he said softly, as if it was an order and a tingle went through Mary’s body. James chugged down his whiskey and stood, the chair scraping from the floor and held his hand out. 

“Come on, I’ll show you the rest of the house” he said and she slipped her hand in his, following him up. He didn’t let go of her hand as he pulled her through the living room, passing Steve who was intensely watching the game. He didn’t even acknowledge them walking past and when they left, the annoyed groan of the missed goalie made James roll his eyes. Not only was the living room and kitchen a beauty of the house but so was every other room. 

“This is my office” he opened the door and Mary poked her head in. It was huge, with a great big desk and a large leather chair behind. There was a sofa and two comfy chairs around a large coffee table in the middle. The room was dark with warm lights. It suited his image perfectly. Dominant and intimidating. 

“Do you work here all the time?” she asked. James was about to chuckle but realised Mary only thought he was an accountant and weapons supplier, a job that most people would think worked from a desk all day. But not James. Oh no, he was far from the average office worker. You might even ask why did he need an office. 

“Yes, but sometimes I have to attend meetings outside,” he said. It was an easy answer. Mary wandered around the office, taking it all in. James was sure to put away anything that might look suspicious to her. He wasn’t looking forward to the time he had to tell her what he does, who he is, a cold-hearted killer who deals illegally every day. But right now he was just enjoying the moment with her. 

He led Mary up the stairs, bringing her down to his bedroom, the last room of the house. Mary felt her heart beating faster as he stepped in, revealing the gigantic room. 

“And this is my room,” he said and let her walk in further, leaning against the frame of the door. the bedroom was huge, with a king-sized bed with four posters and a frame. The carpet was a beautiful cream and the furniture a light beige. the contrast from the bright bedroom to the dark office was polar opposite and she wasn’t expecting the room to look like this. There were two doors on the left-hand side, one that led to a bathroom and one to a walk-in wardrobe. A flat-screen TV was mounted to the wall and there was a large chest of draws underneath, covering most of that wall. The window was big with opaque curtains. The room smelt of his rich cologne, fresh and intoxicating. The bedroom was almost the size of her whole apartment. 

Her bag was placed on a comfy chair in the corner of the room and she was amazed at the whole thing. 

“Wow, this is almost the size of my whole apartment” she laughed softly. It was intimidating. James bit his bottom lip, swallowing the lump in the back of his throat and shut the door behind him softly. The click of the door made her turn around and he pushed himself off the frame, slowly walking towards her. He wasn’t going to wait any longer… he couldn’t wait any longer. James reached for her face, cupping her cheek with his large hand, warm and comforting. Mary stared up at him with bright green eyes, her lips slightly parted and a small breath leaving.

James took a deep breath, pressing his lips to hers in a deep kiss, his lips moving slowly to hers. Mary craned her neck backwards as he towered over her, his other hand reaching for her waist to support her. She found herself lifting her hands to his shoulders, leaning into the kiss, her eyes fluttering close as she fell into heaven. James slowly pushed her backwards until her knees hit the bed and she fell on the mattress with surprise. He leaned over her, supporting his weight with his hand on the bed as he continued to kiss her, moaning softly. Mary’s heart began to pound in her chest, her mind racing with thoughts. 

This is it… it’s going to happen.

But I’m not ready

What should I do… should I stop

Fear took over her and she slightly pulled away. She wasn’t ready for sex… not just yet. She wanted to wait until her wedding. James was so confident and she didn’t want to look like a frigid girl. But she couldn’t help the fear coming over her. Mary pulled back with a gasp and James looked at her with concern, his bright blue eyes wide and lips slightly parted. 

“Um… I’m not ready” she quickly said and red immediately hit her cheeks. James stared at her, his lips slowly smirking. He never intended to have sex with her but he understood her confusion. 

"I know… we’re not doing that” he whispered and Mary blinked. Before she could answer, James kissed her deeply again, feeling her relax into his touch as he reached and slipped off the shoulders of her dress. Her bare shoulders were exposed and he reached for the hem of it. Yanking it over her head, she was left in her panties and no bra. He wasn’t expecting that but was equally happy. James quickly ripped his suit off, leaving no time for Mary to overthink this. When he was left in just his underwear, he pushed her up the bed, climbing on top of her and taking her back into his mouth. 

He was a god underneath all that glamour. A chest toned with no hair, strong arms and long legs Mary couldn’t help but stare at the bulge underneath his boxers. His hair dropped down his face, ticking Mary as he kissed her. His hands roamed her body, touching every inch of her and slipped down to her panties, pushing past them and cupping her mound. Mary gasped into his mouth, shocked at the sensation of his hand touching her, how warm it felt. He shushed her softly, soothing her and pressed his lips to her again. Then he dragged them down her neck, teeth grazing her skin and soft moans escaping. 

Mary’s mind was completely fuzzy with sensations and tingles and she pushed her head into the pillow. James pressed a kiss between her boobs, looking up with dark eyes as she squirmed underneath him. He enjoyed watching her writhe with pleasure underneath him and he smirked, taking a chunk of skin into his teeth and biting, leaving a mark that made her yelp. If she was going to be with him, he was going to have to ease her into his lifestyle, his way with women. 

James crawled back up her body, pressing kisses and left one final one on her lips as his hand began to rub her pussy. She wrapped her arms around his neck for support and comfort and she closed her eyes, moaning and groaning as he pressed his forehead to hers. 

“That’s it” he whispered and Mary could feel something brewing down here. Something tingling and growing. The urge for her pussy to pulse and release the climax. Her leg rose so he could rub harder and she moaned at the top of her lungs. It was so exhilarating and new that her first orgasm was exhausting to the point she felt she was going to pass out. And then she reached it, her pussy exploding and dripping at this point onto his hand as he took control and made her cum. Her body was hot and James grunted as he felt his cock harden through his boxers. Just watching her reach her orgasm was enough for him to cum himself. 

James reached down and took his hard member into his hand, thrusting as he kissed her, reaching his orgasm quickly and coming. He grunted as he released those endorphins and everything he had kept under control the moment he met her. Mary was breathing hard, her eyes glassy and her skin clammy. James smiled softly, pressing a tender kiss to her lips as he relaxed on top of her, holding her close to him. 

“Let's get you cleaned up” he whispered, dragging himself away from her body and padding into the bathroom. Mary lay there, staring at the ceiling, her body crashed from the pleasure. Her first time doing anything but a kiss and it was the most exhilarating thing she had ever felt. Mary let the exhaustion take over and closed her eyes, listening to the background noises of James. She was going to have to talk to Anya about this. 

Chapter 16

Hey I hope you like this chapter, let me know what you think in the comments

@pattiemac1

@sebastiansluts

@charmed-asylum

@blackwood-bodecker-housewife

@abaker32

@samjuarezzz

@sebastians-lover-blog

@buckysgirl85

@captainsarahscratches

@dhoruwolfie

@silvaren-ladybird

@hazomi

[copperbadge]

Sam! Have you heard the latest Big Wooden Boat News? Earlier this week the Götheborg rescued a modern sailboat, and the photos/testimonials about it are delightful. You can find them on the Götheborg's website (in English). It made me smile, not just for the nice story but for thinking about the extra layer of "wtf" that could have occurred if it was sailed by a bunch of teenagers.

I have to admit I couldn't find out anything about the rescue -- not that I don't believe you, but there's no news stories on it and I can't find it on the website FOUND thank you @elladoraevans! The page is here. And what an amazing story! Even better than I imagined.

The funniest part of the story I'm working on about the Dychev rescuing the ferry, which I haven't really lampshaded within the story yet, is that it's not just that the Dychev is manned entirely by teenagers. It's that as part of the learning experience of being crew on the Dychev, you're participating in historical recreation as well.

So the ferry is being rescued by a tall ship, crewed entirely by teenagers, dressed in period British maritime clothing, so they all look like this:

[ID: A color plate illustration of two 18th century English sailors; one is standing, wearing loose trousers, a jacket and neckerchief, a straw hat, and with a queue of hair down his back. The other has a bicorn naval hat, a striped neckerchief, a loose light-blue shirt with baggy sleeves, and an apron over breeches and hose, with buckled shoes. A tall ship is visible in the background.]

Imagine you're just taking a ferry from mainland Italy to Corsica to visit your grandmother for the weekend or whatever, and your ship founders. You're in a lifeboat probably pretty freaked out (or worse, in a life jacket in the water) watching the ferry sink nearby, when a fucking three-masted sailing ship shows up out of nowhere and a bunch of engine-driven longboats manned by what appear to be highly-skilled teenage LARPers arrive to pull you to safety.

I haven't written Caleb into the story, but given he enjoyed going out on the ship with the students, there is a non-zero chance that when they pull you aboard the mysterious, potentially time-traveling tall ship, one of the people bringing you a blanket and some tea is a guy you last saw playing the ukulele in the 2022 Eurovision Grand Final.

God these books are fun to write.

[fandomnerd9602]

Kids and How Many

A-Force Headcanons

Toni Stark (Katie McGrath)

One. For now. Toni gave birth to the apple of your eye: Morgan. You and Toni dote on that little girl more than any other parent. Toni’s recently been giving you hints that she may want another.

Stephanie Rogers (Margot Robbie)

It’s still up in the air. Stephanie loves kids and she’s down to have one or three some day but for now, you try to take care of all the world’s kids by being the co leaders of the Avengers.

Thora (Katheryn Winnick)

Two. You and Thora had your first during the five year gap after the Snap. You named your daughter Frigga after her grandmother. Your second was adopted after one weird cosmic adventure. You both adopted Gorr’s daughter Love. She fits in perfectly with your family, like she was always meant to be a part of it.

Bree Banner (Rachel Weiz)

One. You and Bree decide to adopt, a little boy you rescued from Ultron during the Sokovia battle. His name’s Sam. Despite all her fears, Bree is a natural mother.

Clara Barton (Melissa Benoist)

Three. What can you say? The woman drives a hard bargain. She gave birth to Cooper and then Lila. Clara’s quite the wonderful mom and home renovator. She recently approached you about building a new addition together.

“I’m thinking we should build another room for Natasha” she smiles

“Who’s Natasha?”

She holds up two little pink booties with a smile.

Petra Parker (Millie Bobby Brown)

Two. After college, one happy marriage and a positive pregnancy test later, Petra would give birth to a little girl who she named May. A little later, Petra gave birth to a little boy who you named Ben.

Becca Barnes (Alexandra Daddario)

Becca’s still wary of having kids. Still a little worried that the Winter Soldier programming isn’t completely gone. So for now, you and her adopted a golden retriever, Lucky.

Penni Quill (Dakota Johnson)

One. Penni thought long and hard before bringing it up but you two decide to a baby. A little girl that you both name Meredith, after Quill’s amazing mother. Penni’s already begun putting together her own awesome mix tape for your baby.

[chibifox2002]

I'm bored so here's my list of the top ten plus sized characters that I want to hug/believe would get awesome hugs.

This will contain ramblings for each character, so everything is gonna be under the cut!

#10: Sam from Sam & Max

He seems like he'd LOVE hugs. Plus since he's a dog he'd probably let you pet him if he's in the mood. His hugs would be soft as fuck and nobody can tell me otherwise.

#9: Leatherhead from TMNT (2003)

This guy NEEDS a hug and will absolutely accept one with zero hesitation. Will probably even lift you up while hugging.

#8: Doctor Vargas from Knack

HAH, Y'ALL THOUGHT I WAS GONNA SAY KNACK HUH?! You wouldn't be wrong. Dr. Vargas is very dad coded to me and is a very kind man who loves his family. Plus this science family canonically hugs each other so yeah. Hug the scientist.

#7: Raphael from ROTTMNT

Fucking look at him. Need I say more? Precious baby boy who's doing his best to protect his family. Hug him. Hug him you sick bastard. His hugs are immaculate and safe. FUCKIN' HUG HIM-

#6: Hollyberry Cookie from Cookie Run

She's a grandmother, you are legally not allowed to say she gives bad hugs. Jail. Right to jail if you say that. Her hugs are warm and loving. Best granny.

#5: Kratos from God of War

Now this is probably VERY random, but whenever I think about this man's backstory and what he's gone through I think "this man is VERY OVERDUE for a hug." Even though he's probably not that much of a hugger, only hugging those close to him. His hugs feel earned and validating.

#4: Barnaby from Welcome Home

HE'S BASICALLY A GIANT SENTIENT PLUSH DOLL WHY WOULD YOU NOT HUG HIM?! HIS HUGS WOULD BE SO SOFT AND FUN, SINCE YOU KNOW HE'D SPIN YOU AROUND LIKE THE GOOF HE IS.

#3: DBK from Lego Monkie Kid

He may not be one of my favorites, but I still wish to hug him! He's yet another man who loves his family and would probably give his own life to protect them. Started off as a bastard, still kinda is, but has grown into an amazing father. Is hugs would absolutely be warm! But that's mostly because of the fact that he lives in a lava castle.

#2: King Dedede from Kirby

Of course this dude was gonna be on here. We all knew. But, again, LOOK AT HIM. How could you not wanna hug this cool dude! He'd pat you on the back and everything. Safest hug you'll ever be in. Also he loves his Waddle Dees so of course that's a plus!

#1: Scarlet from Sackboy: A Big Adventure

She's Sackboy's mentor in this game, and, as me and my sister screamed out every time she was on screen, gives off vibes of a grandma who's a veteran and who adventured all over the world and tells her kids all sorts of stories from her 'ventures! Her hugs would be soft, safe, and warm.

[marsenatsu]

Okay sorry. I know I said the last one was the last ask I was gonna send in but then I saw this:

https://www.tumblr.com/inbarfink/708698731505156096/much-like-many-what-remain-of-edith-finch-fans

“And I wasn't alone. I started seeing things. The bed I shared with my sister. The chair my grandmother died in. The clock I used to hide inside of.”

EDITH SR HAD A SISTER.

During Edith’s flashback of her last day in the house, you can see some of Edie’s post-it notes about ‘the History of the Finches’, full of names neither Edith nor the player can recognize. 

There were these names. I can't read them but it looks like the curse might not have started with Johann 's death.

I'm more attached than I was before.

I gotta expand the family tree more than I did in my 'what if verse' and wanted to share my excitement.

OH THIS IS SO EXICTING I HAD KNOW THAT WE HAD SOME NAMES (That i believe tie into myths that have to do with gods and goddesses that are associated with water? Does anyone know anything about this...is this anything at all) BUT I HAD NO IDEA ABOUT HER SISTER? This....actually makes sam and calvin more grim if you think about it. I'n sure if relatives previous to Edie went as godwild as her when it came to preserving family history but if they did...this is not great news for her childhood.

You sent in amazing asks I've been dying to talk about this game actually!!!

[cowgurrrl]

Requesting and begging for an OFTM uni where actress!reader is heavily pregnant and there’s a cute little family pool day (Joel being overprotective of reader in the pool bonus scene plsssssssss) happening at home with Joel taking care of dessert and he burns the pie or something and it’s actress!reader, Tommy and Joel in the kitchen trynna salvage whatever with Joel trying to get her to move away from the smoke and Tommy just takes the pie and the actress!reader in, looks at Joel and goes “you really can’t pull out anything in time huh???”

Stop this made me laugh so hard I love this

Daylight

Pairing: rockstar!joel miller x actress!reader

Author’s note: now what the fuck do y’all know about a Texas Trash Pie

Summary: An almost perfect Texas day with the Millers [2.3k]

Warnings: pregnancy, talks of body image, Hank Miller being the original Shit Stirrer, June your Texas is showing

You love your husband. You really do. However, sometimes you question his choices, like taking the entire family down to Texas before the twins are born. Hank and Lucia are more than happy to see their grandkids, but you're twenty weeks pregnant with the girls and absolutely exhausted. Ethan, Sarah, Ellie, and Dina try to get you out of the house to go to H-E-B with them, one of their favorite things to do when they're in Texas, but you're so sick, you can't even stomach the thought of a car ride. Tommy and Maria, who's also pregnant, are there too, so they can help with Sam. Lucia is also a great help, practically bossing her oldest son around to help you. Not that he needs it, he's always been so supportive, but it's fun to watch their dynamic.

It also doesn't help that Texas is experiencing a record-breaking heatwave while you're there. You can normally withstand heat after so many years in California, but Texas heat is just different, and the extra weight pulling you down makes it ten times worse. The joys of pregnancy, right? Thankfully, the Miller men (and Ellie) help clean and set up the in-ground pool Hank put in a few years ago so you guys can have a family pool day. 

Sam gets slathered in sunscreen, a big floppy hat, a sun shirt, and floaties before Tommy throws him in the pool, the little boy screeching with joy the whole way in. Sarah sits poolside with a book, cheering her husband on while he, Ellie, and Dina throw a football around in the water. Hank grills while Lucia fusses over you and Maria, making sure each of you is comfortable and drinking enough water. And Joel, dear, sweet Joel, is baking for you. 

When you guys got married, Lucia made you what is affectionately known as a Texas Trash Pie. It has chocolate chips, coconut shavings, pecans, pretzels, graham crackers, and probably an ungodly amount of butter in it. Hank's grandmother passed down the recipe when they got married, so she wanted to make it for you guys. It was amazing, perfect, and so Texas that it fit right into your little wedding. With two grown kids and a toddler, you almost forgot about the gooey monstrosity until you returned to Austin. In the few days you've been here, you've been craving it nonstop, and Joel finally decided to make it for you. Lucia tried to help him, but he pushed her out of the kitchen, ordering her to relax so he could make something for his wife. 

So, that's how you end up watching Joel through the windows of his parent's house, making sure he doesn't burn anything down. The girls kick at you and each other incessantly, and you have to push a hand into the side where Baby B lives to get her to calm down. "Would you leave your sister alone, you psycho?" You say, looking down. The big hat Joel forced on your head casts a shadow over your bump, but you're still able to make out a little foot pressing against your skin in protest. Maria catches the movement, too, and makes a shocked noise from next to you, and you laugh. 

"Oh, my God, do they always do that?" 

"Yes! I swear, they're always kicking at each other like they're trying to find more room." You say as Lucia walks over and pulls up a chair to sit between you and Maria.

"How're my two lovelies doing?" She asks, resting a hand on each of your bellies. "Or, I guess, there's five of you if we're counting these lovelies." One of the babies kicks at Lucia's hand, and she laughs. "Well, aren't you just a little troublemaker?"

"You have no idea. This one," you say, moving her hand to where Baby B likes to hang out. "Is only awake when this one," you move her hand again to where A is. "Is asleep. It feels like they only both fall asleep when I'm working or we're driving." 

"That's what she's doing too! She gets antsy if I'm sitting for too long." Maria chimes in, and Lucia shakes her head. 

"The boys were like that too. Now, Joel," she says, looking at you. "Joel was quiet a lot of the time, but if he heard music, forget about it. He'd be up for hours. And Tommy," she looks at Maria. "Tommy would only fall asleep if he was listening to music. Nearly drove Hank crazy."

"He still can't sleep without something playing in the room," Maria says, and you laugh. 

"Miller men are resistant to change. I'm convinced they've got stubbornness in their blood at this point. I barely got Hank to change his soap after he'd been usin' the same one for thirty-five years. Turns out, it was irritating his skin, but he thought it was exfoliating." Lucia says.

"You talkin' bout me?!" Hank calls from his place at the grill, and Lucia shakes her head. 

"You're hearin' things!" She yells, and he points his spatula at you and Maria.

"You girls see how she treats me? Y'all are gonna have to call Elder Protective Services on her." 

"I thought you were forty-five, Grandpa," Ellie says mischievously from the pool, and Hank laughs loudly.

"Shit, that's why you're my favorite!"

"Hey!" Sarah shouts, suddenly looking up from her book, and Hank throws his arms up in defeat.

"Oh, now you're listenin'?"

"When you're talkin' shit, I am!" She says, a twang peeking through her words. Hank and Lucia laugh, but Joel steps out of the house as the words leave her mouth, and he gives her a look.

"Sarah Beth Miller, I know I didn't just hear you talkin' to your grandfather like that." 

"Grandpa started it!"

"Would ya leave the girl alone, Joel?" Hank teases from the grill, and Joel's jaw drops, making you laugh.

"I'm a grown man, and if I curse in front of you or Mama, I still get read the riot act."

"Me too!" Tommy argues from the pool.

"Well, you two ain't our grandkids."

"That's right," Lucia says, and Joel shakes his head, smiling, as he walks over to you. He leans over your chair and kisses you, bumping your hat in the process, and you smile. 

"Ew!" Ellie yells, and Joel flips her off, still kissing you. He scoots to sit next to you, grabbing your hand as he stares at you. Lucia and Maria start talking about something else, giving you two some semblance of privacy, and you send her mental gratitude for it.

"My pie in the oven?" You ask, and he laughs as he kisses your knuckles.

"Yes, ma'am. Should be ready soon."

"Good because the girls are getting impatient."

"Are they now?" He asks, and you nod. He presses the back of his hand to your cheek and furrows his brows. "You're burnin' up, babe. Why don't you get in the pool?"

"Well, here's the problem with that," you start, and his eyes twinkle with amusement. You blame the pregnancy hormones, but you just want to squish his face. He's so goddamn cute. "There are two babies in here, making me huge, and if I get in the pool, I won't be able to get out." 

"You ain't huge."

"Well, I feel like I've got a basketball attached to my body at all times, and that's not small." You say. You are about to launch into a tirade about it, but he kisses you before you can continue. He tastes sweet and a little bit salty, the Texas heat making him sweat, and you can't stop the smile from spreading across your face.

"If I get in the pool with you, will you get in?" He asks quietly, and you take a deep breath.

"Pie's almost ready?"

"Nearly there."

"And you'll help me get out if I get stuck?"

"Always."

"And you'll still think I look good in a bikini even though I'm five months pregnant with twins?"

"I think you look good all the time." He charms you, and you roll your eyes. Finally, he helps you stand from your pool chair, and you pull his purple Red Hot Chili Peppers shirt off, revealing the black swimsuit underneath. Joel wolf whistles when you turn around to hang the shirt on the back of your chair, and you slap his arm. Still, he holds your hand and helps you step down into the pool's cool water. The water helps take some pressure off your hips, and you have to try hard to avoid thinking that you're pretty much a human submarine for your twins. Still, you sigh in relief as you stand in the pool, a satisfied smirk on Joel's face. "Feel better?"

"A little bit." 

"Mama!" Sam yells from the other side of the pool, and you and Joel both turn to look. "Watch what Ethan and I can do!" Ethan hauls Sam onto his broad shoulders without any further warning, and Ellie ducks underwater so Dina can sit on her shoulders. Then, the four of them get into the most dramatic, over-the-top game of chicken you've ever seen in your life. Ellie and Ethan splash at each other blindly while Sam giggles as he holds Dina's hands. Eventually, Ellie tips back and takes Dina down so Sam and Ethan can win. Everyone cheers on Sam and Ethan, including Ellie and Dina, who are good sports about losing. Sam stays on Ethan's shoulders and starts pretending to be a pirate, and you turn back to Joel with a big smile.

"Our kids are pretty cool." You say, and he nods as you wrap your arms around his shoulders.

"Yeah," he puts his hand on your bump. "You think these two will be just as cool?"

"I think these two are gonna give us a run for our money." 

"Yeah?" 

"Oh, yeah. They've been battling it out with each other all day." You say, and he makes a face as he pauses, waiting to feel movement.

"Seem pretty quiet to me. Maybe they just like me better." He snarks, and you give him a look. He laughs and pulls you close, kissing your forehead, but you try to push him away. 

"Oh, Joel Miller knows everything about this pregnancy! Excuse me, Mister Professor!" You exaggerate as you try to swim away from Joel, but he catches you and pulls you back. You smile when he pouts and ducks his head to kiss your jaw.

"I was just kiddin'. I'm sorry." He mumbles, and you laugh, shaking your head.

"You're fine, Miller." You say. He wraps his arms around your waist, and you turn in his arms, his chest to your back, so you can watch the kids splash around together. The sun is high in the cloudless blue sky, and from here, you can see the acres of the Miller ranch, the stables not too far from the house. Barbeque and chlorine hang in the air as a perfect ode to summer, and you smile as you watch Sam jump in the water to the cheers of his adult siblings and their partners. Joel hums as he rests his chin on your shoulder and traces patterns into your skin.

"D'you ever think we'd be here? Married with five kids?" He asks, and you shake your head, giggling to yourself.

"No," you admit, and he laughs. "But, now that it's here..." You try to come up with the words to explain what your family means to you. How they've changed your life, your career, everything. Except, you can't. You'll spend the rest of your sunshine, kid-filled days trying to describe what this means to you. You could cover every mile of the earth, see every wonder the world has to offer you, meet people from different walks of life, and still never be able to explain why watching Ellie carry Sam through the water tugs at your soul the way it does. Or why seeing Sarah and Ethan relax into each other by the pool makes you want to cry. Or why you look at Hank and Lucia, almost fifty years into their marriage, and see hope and unconditional love and a glimmer of you and Joel. He seems to understand, nodding against your shoulder.

"Yeah," he says as he kisses your cheek. "Me too." You turn to kiss him again, but Hank emerges from the house with a blaring phone, pulling your attention.

"Joel, your phone won't stop goin' off. Now, you know I'm not good with all that tech stuff, so here ya go." Hank says as he hands the phone to Joel. He stares at it, confused like he can't figure out why his alarm is going off before his eyes widen, and he pulls himself out of the water.

"The pie!" He yells as Tommy steps out of the house with a beer. He seems to realize what's happening at the same time Lucia does and quickly turns on his heels to go back into the house. Seconds later, you hear the smoke alarm go off. You laugh and, with Ethan's help, get out of the pool and pad inside. You follow Joel's wet footprints through the house and into the kitchen, where Tommy stands with the burnt pie in his oven-mitt-clad hand. He looks at you, down at the pie, back at you, before looking at Joel, and you can almost hear the thought before he says it.

"Can you just not pull anything out on time or..." He says, and Lucia smacks the back of his head before he can even finish the sentence.

"¡No digas mierda así!"

"¡Pero Mama es verdad! Mira, mira, mira-"

"¡Ay, no! Help your brother!" She yells as she leaves the kitchen. "And help him make a new pie!"

[rotijalas]

Skyler & Sam Chen for @sims4thehoes Caliente Whore's Ranch

Being identical twins never bothered Sky and Sam when they were growing up. Built in best friends and all that, yeah? But it was very quickly evident how different they were as people. Sky's contagious energy went unmatched, while Sam enjoyed keeping to themselves. They were both extreme overachievers in school (thanks to their old money grandmother, of course), and they excelled in basically everything. Recitals, sports, arts. There wasn't a person in their prep school that didn't know the Chen name. But of course, that never lasts.

While it took Sky another year before she crashed and burned like Sam, by sixteen, they were both struggling and experiencing horrible burnout. They had each other, of course, but the wrath from Grandma Alicia Kowalksi was unending so when the both of them had their chances, they moved out.

Skyler (she/her) has always been a flighty one. She liked doing everything and anything, and never really settled on one thing that was truly her thing. After high school and a failed stint at university, she spent most of her days partying and mixing in with an... interesting crowd. So with many, many people around her, she naturally took to hosting. Which then grew, and then developed further into developing her cooking skills and taking courses. At the height of her partying life in San Myshuno, she was having dinner parties every night, serving up meals that became quickly sought after. Too bad her naivete made her easy prey for people who didn't have her best in mind.

Sam (they/them) naturally took to the creative life, burrowing themselves in their work and blocking out the rest of the world. They tried university too, but dropped out after a year and just took to writing by themselves. Their first novel was an unpolished smut novel about orcs and elves - and unsuccessful as they self-published it, but from there began the spark that was a following. They published a few more niche smut novels and eventually caught the attention of a small publishing house that specialized in erotic content. They have written a number of novels since then. Their relationship was even more strained with their grandma compared to Sky due to their acceptance of their non-binary gender, and as such lived in a tiny apartment in Evergreen Harbour without much help.

Sky was the first one to move to Chestnut Ridge. She craved a simpler life, one that didn't require anything from her except to take care of unasking creatures and to share her joy at her own choice after an incident with her ex and "friends" that left her jaded. She was a bit out of place at first, but after a year, found a comfortable palace within the community after several potluck attempts and sending food to her neighbors. She's horrible with horses, but does wonderfully with goats, sheep, and gardening - recently, she's begun trying to make her own nectar. If anything, the town knows her best for her amazing food and tendency to host brunches out the backyard of her sizeable ranch (because grandma never really stopped sponsoring them).

Sam only moved in with Sky after their grandma's death. They agreed to sell their childhood home, finding nothing but contempt for it, and so after a few years apart the Chen twins were finally together again! Sky is helping Sam get used to life in Chestnut Ridge, and for the most part, it's been a blast for the past six months (not to mention the treasure trove of inspiration they were getting for their new cowboy-themed novel).

They had always been close even when apart, but now that they were living together, it meant they had each other to lean on.

[cartoonicle]

Ready for Bippity Bop!

Mariana’s costume is ‘The Amazing Tiny Queen’ (curtesy of the Great Little Queen) from her favorite childhood story about a little princess who lost her parents at age ten and became Queen. Because of her looks everyone expected her to go a classic fairytale beautiful princess, but she hates she wants to be extraordinary and prove to everyone that their ideas of her is wrong; plus Egyptian Princesses seem very rare.

Brandon’s costume is his own made up Character ‘The Possum Warlock’ inspired by his mom and grandma. Actually his idea to go as the Possum Warlock is to prove to everyone that there is no such thing as a possum witch and to practically spit in people’s faces for calling his grandmother and mother the possum witches. Don’t worry he’s not actually a secret evil witch, Brandon is actually a very nice a sweet boy.

How everyone else sees vs what family and friends see

Brandon may be sweet and loving and doesn’t want to hurt people like his mom and dad but there is a deep rooted anger inside him for people like his Grandfather, the Polygon King, Blaine’s fan club, and his great Grandparents. He thinks that dressing up like an evil Warlock it would make people react and uses it as an example a teaching moment on how not to judge a book by its cover revealing that the girl he is “Kidnapping” is his sister.

Everyone always applauds those two for their teaching moments through acts soaking in the knowledge Brandon has in store for them, but in case his performance doesn’t always work he can always have his Sister who is naturally angry and strict give them a harsh scolding.

No matter what they will always have good times at parties, singing and dancing together enjoying a party better than anyone else. There is no other person in the world they would rather spend time with them each other.

Since Cursed Princess Club is coming to a close soon I want to make as much fanart of it as I could.

Sketch Base Help Links

[themagnusbane]

GAP The Series Episode 9 Thoughts

After the way we left things off at the end of episode 8, I really really need us to get an apology (or rather Mon should get the apology) in the first half of this episode, and for the truth about Kirk to be revealed. I'm tired of his ass and the drama his secrets bring, and I just want the sapphics kissing and fucking dammit!

So yeah, let's kick things off.

Aaaaand of course we're starting with my baby girl Mon crying her eyes out, with Sam's words ringing in her head. As someone who still remembers the horrible things my lovers have said in a fit of anger, this totally tracks. Words can't be taken back. It's why they haunt us, coloring our interactions with others, sinking their claws into the essence of who we are, and erasing our self-esteem with every trickle of their poison. Now, I know Sam is the way she is because of her witch of a grandmother, and Mon not telling her the truth about Kirk (which I still lay at the feet of Kirk because that piece of shit basically took advantage of his position and Mon's sweet nature to push her into keeping a secret she shouldn't have had to keep in the first place!!! He's just as terrible a boss as Sam!!), triggered those feelings of suspicious and distrust, causing her to lash out, but personally, I want to see her acknowledge that her words do hurt. Both truths can exist. Sam is the way she is because of the abuse she's suffered at the hands of her grandmother. But also, Sam's treatment of, and words to Mon, (not just what happened with Kirk, but since she started working for her), is horrible, and I really hope that this show has someone call her out on it, at the very least, cuz if I was the one in this universe and watching this mess, she won't like my words.

2. Y'all know how much I love this show, and these two women. They've been serving me EVERYTHING I wanted, since the very first episode. But I swear, I need to have a conversation with the writer. I find it very troubling that Mon's only upset right now, seems to be her worry that Sam doesn't love her anymore. There's a prioritization of Sam's feelings over Mon's pain in the start of this episode that just has me screaming at my screen at this point, because the writers in the room, made certain choices that I don't agree with.

3. But honestly, this is one of the most beautiful shot shows!!! That visual of Mon lying down on her bed, being surrounded by her mix of pink and white teddies and pillow, with her pale skin and pink lips and the black hair is GIVING!!!!!!!!

4. The way I hissed at Kirk's annoying voice and his talking about telling Sam the truth about his Facebook identity. Like DUDE, THAT IS NOT THE SECRET WE WANT YOU TO SHARE! Tell Sam about your backstabbing, traitorous ways!!! I swear, I can't believe I went from thinking of him as a good egg, to wanting to enter the screen so I can strangle his ass!!!

5. The audacity of him saying he's told Sam the whole truth when WE KNOW there's still more he's hiding from her. Trash! Trash! Also, Sam isn't jealous at your supposed affair with Mon because she wants you. She's jealous because her girlfriend keeps getting caught in compromising positions with your no-personal-space-respecting ass!

6. Kirk, don't try and be charming, it doesn't suit you. Don't try and flirt. Sam doesn't want you. Don't try and be complimentary, Sam doesn't need you to boost her ego. Just sit there and be the useless, lying fucker you are. Don't try and pretend to be someone you're not. We see you!!

7. I love how Sam thinks she can just show up, and Mon would jump to see her. Hell to the nah! Not after all the vile VILE things you said. Fuck that shit! Good on Mon for insisting on not seeing Sam. Make her work for it my darling. Make her WORK FOR IT!!

8. Shout out to Sam for recognizing just how amazing Mon's mum is, and that she's a core part of the reason why Mon grew up to be so gracious and lovable. Teacher Pohn, you deserve all the applause and all the flowers!! Take you for your generous spirit and your kind heart. Best mum award goes to you!! To think that both you and that witch of a grandmother exist in the same timeline. Smh. Honestly, whenever we get a glimpse into Mon's family and just the love she was raised with, I feel even sorrier for Sam. I imagine just how restrictive it must have been for child Sam to live with a grandmother like that, who's more focused on prestige and her bringing "honour" to their house, rather than Sam's own happiness.

9. Sam's heartbroken expression at Mon ignoring her and walking past, is breaking my own heart. Urgh!! See, this is why you have to be careful what you say, and realize just how much you can hurt the girl you love. You need to apologize Sam. Really apologize. Not the apology where you spin things around, and avoid stating exactly how you fucked up. You need to be honest, and own up to that shit, cuz you really really hurt your girl.

10. Mon's stepdad is awesome and he gives great advice. But I also resent the fact that what he's saying is from a position where he holds incomplete facts. He thinks that Sam and Mon's relationship is purely professional, and I can see why he believes that Mon's boss coming all the way to their house and patiently waiting to see Mon, after they had a "fight" is rare and commendable. But we the audience know that that isn't the case, and as much as I love his advise of speaking out and clearing the air by talking about the fight, I hope the writers find a way to work it into the conversation that Mon has every right to be upset, and that Sam is aware of that. But knowing the writers and how society has a way of villainizing anger as an emotion, I'm not holding my breath.

11. This is so unfair!! Khun Sam!! You know acting adorably is our weakness. How can you split between playacting like the little ghost baby and a dog in one scene??? How is Mon meant to hold onto her anger when you act so cute??? How am I????? Urgh!!! This is so unfair!!!!!

12. My baby Sam. Look at that honest, sincere apology!!! There was a bit of worry for a moment that she was going to gloss over it (girl, no one buys that when you basically called Mon a two-timer, you meant that in a "she's beautiful and clever" way. Don't try and play us.), but she powered through, and apologized sincerely and honestly. Sure she might have centered herself a little in the apology (would it really be Sam if she doesn't? Not like y'all should do that though. If you are apologizing and suddenly start talking about how the rift caused you to lose sleep, and how you don't feel too good, dial it back several notches. The apology is meant to center the aggrieved party's pain, not yours), but that was soon left behind as she was honest with her jealousy and was sincere with wanting to do right by Mon. You know what we call that????

13. Sam's pleased nod, at Mon loving the dinner set up has me grinning like a fool. Sam my beloved! Why are you so increasingly adorable???? Falling in love suits you so much my beloved!!!

14. And the gift giving!!! Her going to the same accessories stand that she had initially criticized for being "cheap", and purchasing matching bracelets for her and Mon??? Sam! My heart! Sweetheart!!! You are redeeming yourself at such a quick pace!!!

15. Hehehehehe. I love how drinking a scotch whiskey for them, is part of their foreplay for having sex. Rofl! You go my queens. Get it on!! Let loose! Get it on!!!

16. Gghjghjghjghjghjghjg. That little squeal of Sam when Mon pushes her into the pool. So fucking cute and adorable. Hehehehe.

17. I couldn't have been the only one who moaned at that shot of Mon looking down at Sam while the latter was in the pool right. Cuz fuuuuuuuck.

18. Aaaaaaand they are following it up with them making out in the pool. My mouth is dry. Fuck. This show is killing me. Sam's head being tossed back. The way she's licking her lips. The deep breaths. The fingers to her mouth. The camera panning to where we don't see Mon but we know she's there, tossing Sam's salad, and eating her out. Their two hands around Sam's throat? This fucking show! This fucking show. I'm too horny for this. RIP to my ass. This show has fucking killed me!!!

19. The fact that my eyes which have just been blessed by my lesbians, lesbianing, are now being tainted by Kirk and his heterosexual red roses, and entitled pushing of Sam to go on a date with him, is homophobic and should be classified as a hate crime!

20. Nita in that red jumpsuit though, is giving Scooby Doo-Monster unleashed!!!!

21. Aaaaand of course Nita noticed the couple bracelets. That sharp-eyed look, and the smirk after she makes the connection?? I WANT THIS WOMAN TO RUIN ME!! Just one night. That's all I ask!!!

22. Kirk strikes me as one of those pretty boys who get buy on their looks and have never had to really use their brains, which now that I think about is, an insult to those pretty boys because at least they have brains. Kirk doesn't even have an iota of a braincell cuz if he did, and if he use that singular braincell to think, he would have known that NEVER IN A MILLION LIFETIMES would Sam want to enter a joint-venture with Nita. Like how can you claim to be her fiancée and not realize this singular, basic fact?

23. I'm sorry, why... WHY would the writers think it is in ANY way okay for Sam to out Mon to Kirk? Her conversation with Kirk can easily stop at "I have a lover". That's it. That's all that she needed to say. But to bring Mon into this, to name her, to her soon to be ex-fiancee, in their workplace, when she is very much aware that her employees are nosy and they might even be eavesdropping on this conversation, and even if they aren't, WHY WOULD YOU OUT MON TO KIRK??? What the fuck!

24. Aaaaaaand she stalks off, after outing Mon, leaving her alone with her now ex-fiancee, a man who probably feels that he's been made a fool of... I have a migraine. With the way the writers keep writing Sam and the choices she makes, it's like one step forward and two steps back for me.

25. Nita taking the opportunity to hit on Sam is doing things to me because fuuuuuck, they look so good together, and you know shit would be smoking hot between them both!!

26. I love that Sam immediately shuts her down, but seriously Sam. This is twice in two scenes, back-to-back that you have outed your girlfriend, without confirming that she is okay with coming out. What the fuck are the writers thinking??? Why do they think this is in any way okay???

27. Sam's delusions in thinking that Kirk will "understand" has me shaking my head so hard. Girl, you give that man way too much credit. When will it occur to you that that man likes to make decisions on your behalf, without considering whether or not that's what you actually want???? You seemingly "broke his heart", admitted that you have been having an affair with the girl he's seemingly been bearing his heart to, and you think he's a-okay???

28. Ha!!! I totally called Yha and Chin having an affair!!! Sam's reaction to catching them is peak hilarity though!!! But, please tell me why I didn't clock that Chin has a wife?? Why didn't I know this? Was it mentioned, but I didn't remember it? Cuz I'm going through my memories of his character being introduced but I can't remember them mentioning his wife.

29. Sam's "I only come to work to look at your face" statement is so valid. I feel you on it girlfriend. Capitalism fucking sucks. Why work when you can be gay????

30. Yo! Are they about to have sex in the office????? Which no complaints, but is that door locked???? If there's anything we learned from the History that Shall not be Named, Also known as History: Salt is the ultimate villain, it is that ALWAYS LOCK THE DOOR!! ALWAYS!!!

31. Sam's hand on Yah's head as she pushes her out of the office is sending me!!!!

32. GAP is giving me the workplace romance I didn't know I NEEDED!!! That sex scene in the office? Jesus!!! This show's making up for edging us for so many episodes !!! GAP is like "they took forever to kiss", and now that they have, there shall fuck on every single available surface, and I am utterly grateful to them for doing that!!! Hehehehe.

33. I'm sorry, how the hell is Mon standing in front of the mirror, and can't notice that her lipstick is smudged, and she looks well and truly debauched.

34. Yha's "ooooooh. Haaaaaaa. Ooooooooh". I AM DEAD!!! DEAD!!!!!

35. Too many people are learning about Mon and Sam's relationship. I suspect their relationship won't stay a secret for long, at this rate.

36. Cher is so hot! Fuck!!! All the women in this show are fucking hot. It's the hair, plus the shirt and the teasing. They just do it for me. The amount of sapphic representation we are getting in this show, is making me so goddam happy. This is what I want! THIS!!!!!!

37. The honeymoon vibes of this getaway is making me so happy. Add Risa and Cher's openly showing their love. The conversation about same-sex marriage in Thailand. This is perfect. I'm squealing so hard!!!

38. Aaaaaand of course they can't let us be happy for too long. Like I get why Mon is hesitating. She's idolized Sam for so long, and feels like she can't measure up to her. But sweetheart... SAM LOVES YOU!! Urgh! I thought the only opposition to them marrying would be Sam's grandmother. I totally didn't factor in Mon's hang-ups into the equation.

Looks like next week's episode has the honorable grandmother making an appearance and URGH!! WHY??????????? I've been thinking of who might have put her on Sam and Mon's trail, and I'm thinking it's either Kirk or Nita, cuz I only trust those two as far as I can throw them, which isn't very far!!!

Next week's definitely going to be a doozy. Brace yourselves everyone!!!

[soullessjack]

The cw walks up to you personally and tells you that they ARE going to be making supernatural season 16. Its going to be a complete retcon of season 15 and they want to give YOU complete creative control over Jack's arc including crucial plot moments and relationships with other characters. What would you change?

i wanted to save this for a Right Time when i could be super organized and detailed and big-wordy but fuck it . we’ll do it weird.

Crucial Plot Moments

I have so many posts on all of the loose ends in Jack’s storylines this’ll be an easy one. also, so much of this would realistically bank on a total rewrite of S15’s pacing but we don’t have time for all that.

for starters, there would be way more to show of the aftermath of soulless jack. all of his actions were in public, primarily on people of a high status (college professors, religious leaders), and even televised on the news. unless the assumption is that chuck erased everyone’s memory after undoing jack’s global mind control, he should be recognized all around from what he did. he does still canonically have an active FBI file marking him as armed and dangerous, too, so there should be more police/federal presence in the ongoing investigation, and it should also attract a whole slew of hunters (think the fanatics from Black Rock), especially the crew Bobby says is put together to hunt jack but never shows up.

this could also fall under relationships, but we absolutely need closure for Jack’s grandparents, Hellen and Jack Kline Sr. the first time we/Jack meets them, he lies and says he’s a coworker of hers, but vaguely confirms that she had a baby who loves her very much and that she was an amazing mom. he’s very visibly holding back tears to see his family—his grandfather is also his namesake, remember—and to know that he “coincidentally” looks like his mother. he ultimately went to see them to give them closure and so he could connect more with Kelly after her death. the second and last time we see them, jack is visiting to find familial connection again after Sam and Dean “rejected” him. he’s forcing himself to look normal and calm, but is still extremely unstable and psychotic, and it shows when his irritation at Hellen’s causes his powers to ‘activate’ more easily—which unfortunately winds up revealing his nature to them and terrifying them.

although the cutoff is literally meant to make us wonder DID JACK KILL HIS GRANDPARENTS!?, it’s eventually shown that he just left, and that he was also accused of killing Kelly, his own mother, by his own grandmother. The Klines never show up again afterwards and there isn’t even a suggestion that he sees them again or tells them the truth at some point offscreen. I don’t know exactly how it would go if he did, though; i think there’s too many directions to narrow down to The Right One, like.. if he did tell them the truth, would they accept him? would they still blame him for Kelly’s death if they knew the actual circumstances of it?

as a side note, almost all of Jack’s major plot points revolve around his relationship to someone else lol.

Rowena; he literally kidnaps her, she’s aware that he’s psychotic but trying to fix what he did / that it was an accident, and she has her own experience of grief making her violent when she tried to bring Crowley back. she’s never seen again until after jack dies and only ever has a silent sad reaction to learning about his death in the beginning S15. then she dies, becomes the Queen of Hell, and they never interact again. I am 100% giving them closure.

DEAN AND JACK. Holy shit. MY GUYS. MY SLIMES. Their relationship is literally so complicated and insane and real and it’s constantly done so shittily in the show and in the fandom bc nobody understands them the right way. I cannot stress enough how much I hate that people’s idea of them resolving their conflict post-Mary is to just infantilize Jack so Dean can’t be mad at him anymore WHEN HE’S WELL WITHIN REASON TO BE ANGRY. HE IS RELIVING HIS ROOT TRAUMA. It’s so painfully one sided and, as all babyjack does, only serves to make Dean look better without any consideration for Jack as a person or any of his actions.

There were also just generally a LOT of plot holes/loose ends surround Jack bc the writers can never fucking commit to anything when it comes to his character:

Harper (14x06) and Sylvia (15x14(?)) are both characters that Jack is written to either have emotional connections with or relate with them. Sylvia is last seen running off with a demon, I think, and Harper is never seen again after the last shot of her in her car writing a letter to Jack about how in love with him she is, still with the intent to kill him, bc as Yockey put it she’s a “psycho stalker” that Jack is entirely unaware of

(I also personally think there are some small parallels between Sylvia and Jack, like Sylvia being a ‘righteous punisher’ as Jack was under Heaven & both of them dealing with loss and disappointment).

The letter Jack writes in 14x04(?) to all three of his fathers before he plans to run away, before stopping altogether to help the enchanted girl, never gets opened or even acknowledged again.

“making it loud” in the empty after detonating. we literally never get an explanation or a follow-up as to what this means and why its bad and what will happen. presumably it means he woke up every dead angel and demon that’s in the Empty, but we can only presume.

Almost every traumatic experience he has ever endured. We almost never get his actual point of view or a clear focus on it in the show: Apocalypse World, Michael, losing his soul, the security guard in Tombstone, killing Mary and becoming psychotic, being literally suicidal with guilt and estrangement and feeling as if he’s “constantly letting his fathers down.” being struck down and murdered horrifically by his own grandfather, being in the Empty for months to even being Billie’s compliant weapon — all overlooked !!!

I need to finish this post soon because I know it’s been forever since you sent it to me, but as of right now I have a headache so I will wrap it on a sillier note !! For the final touches, I would ensure that

Jack is way more unhinged and spiraling, like 13x02 and 13x06. There are lasting effects of his trauma and everything that has been implied of his character but never fully fleshed out, like his soulless psychosis over Mary and the entire guilt-disappointment-anger arc from S15. See also, every traumatic event he ever experienced.

Jack would also be way more reactive to things, especially the sheer amount of unfairness given to him because of his heritage. AU Bobby quite literally said that the only reason he hadn’t killed Jack on the spot was his humanness, and then did an entire heel turn on it in 14x18.

I don’t think a real solid love interest would be a good addition to SPN but I do think he should kiss a boy or at least have something implied; it just means a lot to me that one of his desired “normal human” experiences was falling in love lmao

More gay little jackets 100%

Have bloodier kills and actually be bloody and fucked up