#she needs to get her hands on shane's blue chickens

[fizzytoo]

the prettiest spot on her farm is reserved for the chickens <3

[stardewremixed]

Justice for Stardewies

Because people need jobs and purpose...

Jodi

has been a single mom for so long, even though Kent returns in Year 2. She was a Registered Nurse, and replaces Maru at the clinic when Maru decides to go back to school. Jodi starts to feel her confidence grow as she works outside her home. And Harvey is a good boss, letting her work around Vincent's school schedule.

Maru

Inspired by Harvey, Maru wants to pursue and advanced degree in medical technology. With her poor eyesight, her dreams of becoming an astronaut faded. But she still gets to tinker and play with technology, which is something she loves.

Marnie / Marlon

deserves better than a "secret" relationship with Lewis. His family has wealth and historically held positions of power. The Governor is his cousin after all. Still Marnie deserves real "out in the open" love. Marlon asks her out one day after she visits the Adventurer's Guild with the weekly dairy delivery. Their first official date is the Flower Dance. And they dance together for the whole town to see. Lewis is jealous but... he had his chance. #sorrynotsorry

Shane

is sober and working at the movie theater during the evenings. He attends vet school during the day. Shane wants to open an animal clinic, with an emphasis on chickens... 🐔 er... farm animals. And he makes his famous pepper poppers for all town events.

Pam

Pam went to rehab. She is now reemployed at Pierre's. She really enjoys helping customers find what they are looking for, and she joined Caroline's class to get fit. She has already dropped almost 20lbs.

Robin

Robin does so much for the town. She is convinced by the people to run against Lewis. And then she actually wins. Since she finally has help from Alex, Robin's business is booming. She is able to hire on another employee so she can focus on her new important duties as Mayor of Pelican Town.

Linus

Is anyone surprised he actually has money? And lots of it? Linus gets involved with other veterans like himself with much encouragement from Gus. Now with properly flowing taxpayers' dollars, Linus is able to build a tiny Veterans Village for former military men and women to "get off grid," find healing, and a fresh start. Kent gets involved too after he starts counseling for his PTSD.

Alex

Robin hired Alex as a handyman. Alex is surprisingly good with his hands and figuring things out, especially electrical. With no formal training, he can rewire televisions and stereos. At first, he just tinkers in Robin's workshop. But then he starts doing bigger projects. After getting an electricians license, Alex helps wire houses and rewire faulty electrical in other homes and businesses around the Valley. It's blue collar work but it pays really well, and his skills are sorely needed. And he can work as he wants. So he still has plenty of time to toss the gridball around with friends, and take Dusty to the dog park, and even help Granny in the kitchen.

Evelyn / George

Ev still helps out at the community garden. She starts growing spices and herbs to bake in her breads and cookies. Once the Community Center is repaired, Evelyn hosts a bake sale to help with the upkeep. And Haley joins her in organizing a cake walk. George gets motivated, with encouragement from Jodi (since she is a vet's wife), to do the Valley's own version of Special Olympics. Alex helps his grandpa train.

Abigail

finally graduates after six years. She knows what she wants. She is going to pursue a master's in folklore and mythology. While it isn't business like her dad wanted, Pierre is still proud of his little girl. Abi leaves for Zuzu City (on the repaired bus line). She also has an internship lined up, translating manuscripts (since she learned ancient Dwarven).

Sebastian

takes coding to the next level. He finds a partner in Zuzu. They start a tech company together. Seb still comes home on weekends to spend time with his family (he and Demetrius patched things up ever since his stepdad got his official diagnosis as autistic). Seb always brings rice pudding for Demetrius, from the Asian Market he lives above. Seb is also working on releasing his first video game, inspired by his experiences in the mines.

Sam

After the band breaks up, Sam decides to go solo. He leaves for Zuzu City for some gigs. The first weekend he is there, he makes a connection with a talent scout who thinks Sam is really good. Sam starts landing bigger and bigger shows. Next thing he knows, he's traveling the world, opening for big name bands. It is a dream come true. He never stays in one place too long, but that's just what he loves about his "work."

Elliott

publishes his romance novel. And then his editor suggests a series. It is super successful. With his new steady income, Elliott upgrades his cabin to a proper beach cottage. He teams up with Penny to write a children's book.

Penny / the children

returns to school and obtains a proper teaching license. With help from Robin, she opens an after school enrichment program for Vincent, Jas, Leo, and a few other children. And she partners with Professor Snail to offer summer camps on Ginger Island. Penny also organizes a beach clean-up day.

Vincent starts an entomology club with the Prof, much to his delight.

Jas works with Emily to create costumes for a play. The story of the Winter Star is the first show they put on for the town. And this seriously helps Jas' confidence.

Leo repairs the treehouse with the help of Alex. And Pam, who attended cosmetology school, gives him a proper "big kid" haircut.

[lolahauri]

It's 3:29 am I can't sleep, all I can think about is Shane getting sick of Little Miss Braty Haley, skipping the Saloon, and hate fucking her in her bed before Emily comes home...

I thought you could run with this maybe

omg 5:30 am as im posting this and i can't sleep either babe 😭 love this idea though... brat tamer shane and bratty haley 😏!? hehe

side note: i listened to "i'm yours" by isabel larosa on repeat while i wrote this, i recommend doing that HEAVYILY. it fits the vibe perfectly!!!!

-> 1.1k Words, F/M, Sexting, Teasing, Angry Sex, Light Brat Taming, Dirty Talk, Age Gap, 20's/35, FWB <- (MDNI)

it was supposed to be a one time thing, him and haley. just a quick fuck that somehow happened when he went to bring emily some cloth, only to find it was just haley home.

but as much as he tried to resist her, one time turned into 2. then 4. then 8 times. then... he lost count at that point. but he felt weird about it all. she was just so young, so beautiful, so much better than him.

not to mention he was friends with her older sister. the sister he saw every night at the saloon, the sister he was paired with every flower dance. it was awkward to say the least.

but after months of dragging it on, he finally cut her loose. he did what he thought was best for everyone. he didn't want to corrupt this bright, young woman with his issues. he wanted to be able to look emily in the eyes again without feeling embarrassed.

~

it'd been a month since he cut her off. he was honestly surprised with his will power. he ignored every call, every dirty message, every suggestive photo.

but one night, he just couldn't fucking resist anymore. he was used to haley being a needy, bratty, little bitch. but that night she really upped her game.

he was at the saloon like usual, not long after emily had clocked in, when his phone started dinging like crazy.

he grunted to himself before taking it out of his pocket, "buh... who the hell is bothering me at this time of night?"

he nearly choked on his beer when he clicked the newest notification before looking closely. it was haley, in all her nude glory. his eyes were wide as dinner plates as he scrolled up to the first message of the night.

heyy shaneypoo - 9:50 pm

need you tonight xo - 9:56 pm

pleasee??? getting desperate here - 10:14 pm

you can't ignore me forever! - 10:23 pm

fine. maybe this will change your mind - 10:36 pm

what followed were a wide range of nudes and videos. starting with her in some sky-blue lingerie, and ending with a muted video of her rubbing her clit with spit-covered fingers.

the look on shane's face would've made a bystander think he just got news of his beloved chickens dying. eyes wide, red face, sweat beginning to collect. he had enough. he had to see her now, there was no point in trying to resist it anymore. he needed her just as much as she needed him, and he hated to admit that to himself.

so he slammed down his tab and left with his head down, leaving an extra 500 gold to be tipped to emily...

it was pouring down rain as he jogged to haley's house, leaving him soaked by the time he entered the front door. but he didn't care right now, the clothes wouldn't be staying on long anyways.

as he walked into her room, she was ready for him. hand still between her legs, skin glistening with sweat, panting and whining. she's so pretty it hurts.

his heart thumped in his chest at the sight. shit, he really missed this. but he wasn't going to be soft right now, she needs to be punished and fucked like the slut she is.

"shane..." her eyes were half-lidded as she spoke. her voice weak and needy.

"don't- say another word. get on all fours." he demanded, undoing his belt as fast as possible and walking to the edge of her bed.

once they were in position, he wasted absolutely no time. one of his large hands planted itself on haley's heart-shaped ass, as the other grabbed a fistful of her golden hair.

he slipped his thick cock inside her easily, her wetness completely eliminating any resistance. they both gasped at the intrusion. he really hated how much he missed this, how much he missed her.

he started fucking her at a ruthless pace, being completely selfish and focusing on his own pleasure the most. the room was now being filled to the brim with their lewd noises. all the moans, screams, headboard slamming, and sounds of skin slapping together was already bringing him dangerously close to the edge. he was going to try and hold out as long as possible, though.

he yanked her head back by her hair and knelt down to her ear, whispering dirty phrases that he knew would go straight to her core.

"god damn, you feel so fuckin' good." his free hand slapped her ass cheek, before kneading it roughly. "you know how hard it is to not pump my fucking load into you right now? you're like a fucking demon."

her cunt clenched hard around him after hearing his obscene words, squeezing so tight it was like she wanted to keep him trapped inside. shane groaned at the feeling of her pretty little hole fluttering around him.

he soon picked up the pace dramatically, giving fast, shallow thrusts. the bed was creaking in sync with the slamming of the headboard against the wall. he gave her plump ass a few more slaps, leaving a big red handprint that would surely be sore tomorrow. he knew she'd like that though. she loved being able to see and feel the aftermath of their late-night visits the next day.

shane removed his hand from her hair and pressed it between her shoulder blades, pining her chest and face to the mattress. he could feel his climax building quickly. he couldn't hold back any more, as much as he'd like to. it was all too much. he needed to fill her, claim her.

he grunted out his words, needing to hear her answer before allowing himself his release. "tell me who owns this fucking cunt."

"you- you, shane!" she was sobbing as she felt herself unravel around him. "you own me!"

"fuck!" he threw his head back as his came inside her, both of them moaning and cursing at the feeling. he fucked into her a few more times before pulling out completely, watching as his fluids poured from her pretty pussy and onto the sheets of her bed.

they both were breathing heavily as he got off the bed, letting her finally roll over and collapse onto her back. once he was finally dressed and leaving her room, he turned back and spoke to her one more time.

"i'll be back tomorrow, but this time, don't take the lingerie off. got it?" she just smiled and giggled in return, leaving him with butterflies.

what has he gotten himself into?

[barkspawn]

could you maybe write a oneshot or hc about amelia/the farmer standing up for shane after hearing people talk sh!t about him and his struggles? and he thinks like woah maybe i can tolerate them... maybe. <3

Can you tell who makes me the saltiest? I like this one a lot, though they kind of are already friends.

Amelia stood with Shane, laughing about something silly his blue chickens were trying to do. He had just come back from Zuzu after his episode on the cliff. Something clicked in him then and he cut drinking immediately. 

He wasn’t feeling great, of course, his hands shaking and headaches pulsing constantly. More than anything, it was the constant shift between cold and hot. 

He sometimes thought about saying fuck it and just giving in. But, as his therapist told him, these were intrusive thoughts. He had little affirmations that he told himself each time, which felt stupid at first, but then he realized how it actually worked. Harvey had given him medication that was meant to help with the symptoms of his withdrawal. It seemed to be working well enough, his symptoms being much less severe than they were at first. 

Though all of that aside, Amelia was the most helpful. She was by his side whenever he needed her. She hired him on as a farm hand, though his workload was light, often just helping her out. 

He wasn’t sure he could do it without her. 

Even now, as they stood by the fire in the saloon, sipping their Joja colas, he found himself smiling, which often still surprised him. 

He had this big elaborate plan to ask her out when he stabilized a bit. He still didn’t think he was worth a second glance to someone like her, but, again, his therapist told him he’ll never know unless he asks. 

The thought twisted knots in his stomach in fear of losing her. He watched as she exchanged pleasantries with Emily, noting the way the corners of her lips would rise only slightly if she told a joke, or how her hair, which she loathed, was always a little unkempt. But she wore it perfectly. The faded teal color is darker at the roots and vibrant at the tips. Her hair was riding the thin line between wavy and curly, half tied back in a messy bun, small strands of hair framing her face. 

She had a nervous habit of biting on her lower lip or sometimes picking at her fingernails. 

He could watch her for hours if he allowed himself, but while he was many things, he was not a creep. 

He straightened up a bit as she turned back to him, Emily leaning over the counter, a bright smile playing at her lips, “you guys want the usual? Beer and cider?” 

Amelia frowned, about to speak up, but Shane offered a smile to her and then Emily, who looked curious, “I’m actually not drinking anymore.”

Emily beamed, starting to congratulate him before they heard Abigail scoff, leaning on the counter as she waited for her drink, “right. That’ll last all of ten minutes.”

Amelia clenched her jaw, looking at Shane, who frowned. Amelia turned, giving Abigail a fake smile, “why don’t you keep your incredibly insensitive thoughts to yourself?”

Shane reached out and touched her arm, though she didn’t relent. 

“I’m just saying. Once you start something that bad for you, you just don’t stop,” Abigail shrugged and grabbed her drink before turning toward the arcade area. 

Pissed, Amelia called after her, “what, like shamelessly flirting with Sebastian when he made it clear he’s not into you?” She ignored the shocked stares from everyone, including Abigail, “at least Shane has the self-respect to own his issues instead of projecting–” she was cut off as Shane took her arm and pulled her toward the door. It wasn't rude or malicious, he just wanted to stop her from getting too angry. Once outside, he kept walking and she finally pulled free at the bridge to the beach, “what, are you planning to throw me in or something?”

She was joking, though some frustration bled through her tone. Shane just sighed and gestured for her to follow him. They wound up on the bench beside Willy’s shack. They sat in silence for a long time, watching the reflection of the moon on the water as millions of stars glowed in the sky. It was gorgeous, and honestly, it helped her calm down. 

After a few minutes, Shane spoke, his voice soft, “thank you. For what you did back there.”

She looked him over, scanning his profile before nudging his leg with hers, “for embarrassing someone much younger than me for being rude?”

“No, but that was pretty awesome,” he laughed, looking at her briefly with a crooked smile before leaning back and resting both of his arms along the back of the bench. He sighed, his gaze turned back out to the water, “for standing up for me. You didn't have to do that, but you did.”

She smiled, touching his leg gently, “Shane, I wanted to do that. You mean a lot to me and I'm so proud of you. I'm not going to let some girl whose biggest problem is a boy–” she stopped, giving his knee a gentle squeeze before pulling her hand back, “sorry. She just really got under my skin.”

“Because of me,” he added, not really asking so much as stating. He was looking over at her now, her bottom lip between her teeth. He tapped her shoulder with the hand that rest along the back of the bench, “hey, none of that,” he teased before signing, “my point is that… No one has ever stood up for me like that before.”

She watched his face for a long moment before nestling into his side in a makeshift hug. He laughed and let his arm fall around her, keeping her close for a long moment before easing his arm. He didn't want to force the hug for too long and be awkward… But she didn't move away. Her head rests on his chest, slowly rising and falling with his breath. 

After a long moment, she spoke up, “am I hurting you? Or is this weird? You're just super fucking warm,” she explained. 

“Nah, Oatmeal. Not hurting me. And trust me, I'm okay with this.”

He took a moment and let his words linger for her to take as they were. He liked this: holding her while watching the stars and sea. His hand gently rubbed her back. 

She pulled herself up a little and looked at him with almost apologetic eyes. 

Great, so here comes the ‘i just don't see you like that.’

She looked down though, as if she were embarrassed, “I want to say something but you can't laugh or hold it against me because it is a compliment.”

He blinked, nodding slowly. 

“You used to just smell like beer, which I'm not trying to insult the old you, but the point is that you smell really nice now. Like… Well, obviously is a bit of hay, whatever you use to wash either yourself or your clothes… I… Am dragging this out.”

His cheeks felt warm, and he knew it wasn't from the withdrawal. They both laughed as she covered her face with her hands, “hey, don't hide your face,” he chuckled, his hands moving to pull her hands from her eyes, their hands never quite pulling apart.

“Uh, thank you, for what it's worth,” he sighed loudly as his head fell backward, “you're forcing me to sound creepy now, but I've always loved the way you smell.”

She laughed, giving in and just letting herself fall against his side. His arm took its place around her, the whole situation feeling somehow right. 

“Hey, Shane?” she hummed after a long few minutes. 

“Yeah, Oatmeal?”

She shifted to take his free hand, looking over his palm, “is… This weird? For me to make myself comfortable in your space uninvited?”

He gave a small laugh, cursing the thought that she could hear his heart racing, “for one, I'll never turn you down… Uh, for these things,” he corrected before going on, “and sure, people might talk shit, but if you and I are okay with it, then I couldn't give a fuck about the opinions of those guys.”

They sat in silence for a long time before she pulled back up, looking him over one more time. 

“So.. You're fine if people think we're a thing?” she mumbled. 

He signed and shifted to face her and lean on the back of the bench, “people will think what they want. I understand if what people think would bug you-- I mean look at me,” he gestured to himself, “I'm a fuckin’ mess while you’re,” he gestured to her settling on, “so far out of my league that it’s laughab ---” he jumped as she smacked his chest, looking surprised and rather mad, “damn, what was that for?”

“There is no such thing as leagues. I happen to find you to be more attractive than a lot of people in this town,” she huffed as she plopped back down against him, hand resting on his chest. 

After a long moment, he chuckled, “attractive, huh?” he teased, his smile growing wider.

“Ugghhhhh,” she groaned, rolling her eyes, “oh I'm going to regret telling you that.”

He laughed aloud, a sound she didn't think she'd ever grow tired of. It was another few minutes as they sit there, his hand idly playing with her hair. She spoke up after a long second, pulling back to look at his face, “will you go to that tunnelers game with me?” he spoke, cutting off whatever thought she had been about to share. 

She laughed and nodded, “of course. I want to see you in your element,” she teased, looking over his face for a moment. 

“You do know that Abigail was wrong, right? You can get better and you're already doing an amazing job.”

He didn't know what to say, and it seemed she understood. They sat there for what felt like at the very least an hour, just huddled together and watching the sea. 

She started to doze before she muddled him, humming that they should go home. Despite his place coming up first, he insisted on walking her home. They made it to her door a little after 1 am. Her eyes were heavy as she rubbed them. 

“Will you be alright heading back?” she started, looking up at him. He gave her a small smile before pulling her into a hug goodnight. She hugged him right for a few moments before he pulled back. 

“I'll be fine. I'll see you tomorrow around 4 at the bus stop, right? For the game?”

She smiled warmly before pressing a small, almost imperceptibly short kiss to his cheek before heading up the stairs to the cabin, pausing at the door, “I'll see you tomorrow at 4 then.”

He gave her a small wave goodbye as she disappeared inside of the cabin. His cheek burned from the peck, not having expected it. 

Yeah, the game tomorrow would be huge. 

[tranzfalgar]

okay it’s time for some stardew valley headcanons for the bachelor/ette(s) so let’s GOOOO

Alex:

- he always awakes before his grandparents, and on warmer days he’ll go down to the beach to watch the sunrise.

- friends with elliot! the two of them sit on the side of the dock sometimes and just chat about life.

- knows how to make cookies, as evelyn taught him when he was a bit younger

- wary of the saloon, as he doesn’t really like the smell of alcohol and only goes into it if he’s forced to!

- if you marry him, he can and will pick you up randomly to surprise you while you’re working!

- if married, he will “bench press” your kids once they become toddlers, and it always makes them giggle

- hates the winter and gets cold really easily. on the first day of fall he’s already bundled up wanting it to be summer again.

Elliot:

- willy is like a father to him. the two of them sit on the docks and watch the fish swim by together

- sometimes he’ll braid his hair, and leah will bring flowers from the forest and weave them into his hair.

- has a rlly pretty singing voice, and likes to record piano covers in his spare time

- if you marry him and the two of u have kids, he’ll always braid their hair in the morning and tuck flowers behind their ears.

- he brings home fresh fish he caught and makes himself dinner every night. that’s why he’s an excellent cook.

- has actually caught a legendary fish before!

- his eyes change color, they can go from blue to green to brown in the same day. people call them the “prismatic shard of eyes”

Harvey:

- he’s so clumsy that sometimes he’ll even trip over air. due to this, he has little bruises all over his knees and elbows.

- his favorite animals are birds. sometimes he’ll go outside and just give them some bird seed. he loves watching them fly around.

- not only is he fascinated with planes, but he’s also fascinated with the weather. as a kid he used to watch the weather channel, and he dreamed of becoming a weatherman.

- when he needs to focus really hard, he’ll pull his hair back with a headband

- him and his mother were and still are very close, and he writes letters to her at least once a week

- he cannot cook to save his life, but he’s an incredible baker! will make you little treats if you’re friends or married

- he always wears a wristwatch, but the time is always 6 minutes behind. he likes it because it has a plane engraved into the side against his wrist.

Sam:

- he had adhd, and his stims include flapping his hands, tapping his foot and strumming his guitar

- he has a beautiful singing voice, think like wilbur soot but a bit more high pitched?

- the reason he likes cactus fruit so much is because he just plants them and lets them grow. he loves succulents because they don’t give him an allergic reaction!

- cannot play video games for shit. sebastian and abigail have banned him from multi-player games because he just sucks so bad.

- love language is acts of service, simply because he likes singing for people he cares about and doing little things for them!

- if you marry him, he will bring his guitar into the coop and/or barn and sing to the animals. they have learned to run over a greet him, since they love his singing.

- his hair is actually curly, but you’re unable to tell due to how much he gels and straightens his hair.

- has mastered the art of the puppy dog eyes

Sebastian:

- loves the hell out of halloween, but is scared of literally everything. he nearly cried watching a horror movie with sam and abigail.

- really good with a slingshot! so if he were to go into the mines, he would wreck some monsters shit with his slingshot skills

- he had glow in the dark stars on his ceiling, but removed them. he used to love the stars and space, but came to resent them because it was his sisters thing.

- he like…irl blushes. like an anime character. when he’s embarrassed, upset, flustered, his face will go all pink. everyone picks on him for it.

- has/had a crush on most of the towns singles. he is a bisexual disaster and secretly a romantic so….take from that what you will.

- a natural born ginger, but dyes his hair. he also has freckles on his nose! and he has an eyebrow slit because of a scar!!

- for some stupid reason, he takes really good care of his hands? like he always makes sure they don’t get calloused, and his nails are always painted black, despite using his hands all the time for work.

Shane:

- he cannot cook. he burned pasta noodles because he didn’t know you had to put water in the pan.

- he still has a chicken plushie from when he was a baby, and it still sits on his bed. and if he cuddles with it at night? no one needs to know.

- has a huge birthmark on his side shaped like a heart

- really good at mixology, so i think that when joja gets shut down, shane works at the saloon and makes the drinks while gus cooks. he adds a whole new section on the menu!

- friends with sebastian. they paint each other’s nails from time to time, or sit in the rain together and just talk.

- kinda strong as hell? he lifts boxes in joja for work, as well as carrying around jas, so i’m assuming he could just….pick the farmer and his friends up?

- he has the most contagious laugh, it used to be a rare sound, but now that it’s a pretty common occurrence, shane makes people laugh all the time with his own laugh.

Abigail:

- buff. she is buff as hell. her and alex work out together sometimes, since she expressed a desire for adventure. she has picked up sam and sebastian with no warning and thrown them into the ocean

- can talk to animals due to her being the daughter of the wizard! so sometimes she’ll go to marnies farm and just chat with the cows or something

- if she sees a tree, she WILL climb it. she loves it so much, it’s just so adrenaline inducing for her.

- her and sebastian tried to go into the mines before but sam stopped them because it wouldn’t have been very safe. they were all 14.

- trying to learn to play the ukulele with a little help from sam. it’s frustrating, but she really likes the sound of it, and she’s determined as hell.

- absolutely cracked at any and all video games he plays. mario kart? she will kick your ass. animal crossing? her island has 5 stars. pokémon? she always wins. you can’t stop her, she’s too powerful.

- she has glasses, but prefers contacts, since glasses would get in the way of her adventuring.

Emily:

- not only can she sew, but she also makes her own soaps and candles! any form of creation she adores.

- loves flowers, and has a lot of little potted ones in her room. she raises them, gives them little names and personalities, and then brings them to sandy and tells her all about each flower

- she can roller skate, and it’s her preferred method of transportation. she can do a bunch of fun tricks as well!

- has an eyebrow slit

- making cute little baskets of homemade gifts is her favorite thing to do for her friends. sometimes she’ll just leave them on their doorsteps for no reason other than she wants to!

- can SPRINT in heels. like even 6 inch heels she can just RUN and it scares everyone who sees it.

- she loves the sounds of birds chirping in the morning, and she’s able to identify the name of the bird by its chirping and calls

Haley:

- is able to perfectly crack and drink from coconuts. that’s why she loves them so much.

- has the worst sense of direction. she’s lucky she lives in a small town, or she’d get lost all the time

- the spring is her favorite time of year, simply because she loves to capture life coming back in those spring months. baby animals, blooming flowers, her friends on the beach or just chilling in the sun, all of it

- her most prized possession is the very first picture her and emily took as kids on their parents polaroid. it’s taped to her mirror

- has a little beauty mark under her lip, but it normally isn’t visible due to being covered with makeup!

- she’s able to do her own nails! this is because she is ambidextrous, yet she doesn’t know, because it’s never been brought up

- she fucking LOVES learning about and identifying plants, trees and flowers. she knows so many it’s crazy. she has a great memory.

Leah:

- resident true crime enthusiast and ghost hunter. she drags elliot with her around town to go hunting for ghosts. they also watch documentaries together!

- has a bunch of little scars on her hands from her artwork

- to get inspiration for works, she’ll go on walks at different times of the day, different seasons, different routes, and she’ll turn each walk into a work of art. depending on all the environment and those who she runs into, each piece is vastly different.

- animals love her, and will sometimes just follow her around for no reason. she doesn’t mind at all, she kinda loves it.

- friends with emily. they are currently teaching each other their own forms of art, since they love learning from each other!

- really good at dancing, she’ll dance while she’s working on projects and she’ll hum a song to herself

- her favorite statue was created after she went on a walk, ran into abigail, and the two of them went swimming in the ocean and stayed there as the sun set and the stars came out. she has a little crush on abigail.

Maru:

- her hair is ALWAYS tied up, it’s impossible for her to work if her hair is in her eyes

- when she was a kid she wanted to be an astronaut, because she loves the stars, but she found she prefers the science and math behind it all

- she pierced her own ears, she has little star earrings!

- watches cartoons and geeks out about them with penny when they meet up in town!

- for some odd reason, she is terrified of butterflies. no one who knows her, or even maru herself have ANY idea why, but she will run away if she sees one.

- her favorite memory was the one night her and sebastian stayed up really late as kids and snuck outside to look at the stars (back when sebastian still loved them) and they ended up seeing a meteor shower

- she presses flowers as a hobby, and just keeps them in a little notebook alongside her ideas for projects and gadgets.

Penny:

- while she’s cleaning her and pam’s home, she finds herself singing to herself. she has yet to be caught by anyone

- each day, her hair is done ever-so-slightly different. each morning, she likes to change it up, and sometimes jas or vincent will give her something to put in her hair

- also interested in ghosts, will occasionally join elliot and leah on their adventures

- she is naturally really warm, so she doesn’t have to bundle up as much during the winter. the kids cling to her because she’s like a human space heater

- has a bit of a geeky side, and she loves to watch cartoons a lot. when she can find the time, she always watches them. they being her lots of comfort.

- has a small scar on her side from when she tripped over as a child onto something sharp. she likes it because with two freckles, it makes a little smiley face

- loves the water and the feeling of sea wind in her hair. she secretly wants to learn to drive a boat, so she can feel that wind in her hair whenever she wants.

[beachy--head]

Jackson really can't resist April's green dress at the wedding. And April can't lie to herself anymore. It hurts to see him with someone else, a lot. And she really really misses him. Christina may be psychic lol

Strapless. And tight.

Okay, to be fair, she did warn him, but what she had failed to mention was that she was born to wear this dress. She's gorgeous in scrubs, in casual clothes, even in just a tank top and shorts, but this dress, that showcases her neck, her skin, her legs? It looks amazing on her. Would also look amazing on the floor of his bedroom.

Next to him, Cristina snorts.

"When you're done eye fucking Kepner, can you pass me the chicken?"

He takes the plate, still staring at April, a vision in green, and gives it to Cristina. "I'm not-"

"Oh, if that helps, she totally does it too, don't worry. Just try not to go at it in the middle of the dance floor, there are children here. Also, I don't want to see that."

He clenches his jaw. He absolutely hates it, but Cristina is right. He has been staring at her for the past hour, dying to get his hands on her, hell, even to just be talking to her. Why did he agree to her idea of bringing dates again? It doesn't make any sense. Nothing hasn't made any sense between them ever since San Francisco, and he feels it's time he put a stop to that.

___

Why did she suggest they bring dates again? She's miserable, she's uncomfortable, and he looks great as always in his tuxedo. More than great, actually.

Next to her, Shane is fidgeting, like a kid that just wants to go play. With a sigh, she releases him, telling him to go have fun, and watches him as he joins Jo and Stephanie at the bar. Stephanie, the intern she threw at Jackson, because she knows she gets emotional at weddings and was afraid of the lethal combination of celebrating love and losing herself into him.

Her eyes find their way back to the table, because lately they never stray too far from him. She watches Jackson frown at something Cristina said, and she can't help picturing her fingers soothing the lines between his eyebrows, then tracing a line towards his cheek and then his jaw, bringing it closer to- no.

What is going on with her? She's at a wedding, in a very public place, surrounded by her co-workers, and she's just thinking about her mouth on his jaw, and his on her neck, and is she blushing? She doesn't recognize herself, and she feels it's time she put a stop to that.

___

"Hey, I... Would you like to dance?"

He looks nervous, like he's afraid she would say no. As if she could ever say no.

He puts one hand on her back and they sway to the music. Her fingers find his chest, feel his heartbeat, and she finally gathers the courage to look at him. His eyes are already on her, an ocean of blue and green, of questions unasked and feelings repressed.

"We need to talk."

His "We do." sounds a lot like his "I'm in. All the way" from a few weeks ago. And she would panic and try to analyze what it means, but she's decided instead to stop assuming, the way she's been assuming everything that was going in his head the past months, and start asking, start listening.

"We'll talk. But later."

Because now, he's holding her, she's nuzzling against him, and neither of them ever wants to move.

[stellawella97]

Atelephobia: The Fear of Never Being Good Enough (Shane/Gender Neutral Farmer) - Chapter 1/3

Just posted 1/3 of my first Stardew Valley fanfic!

Read it below or over @ AO3

Summary:

Shane has got 99 problems but never did he think the entire world losing its colour would be one of them.

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

It started off as just any other normal day in Shane’s life.

The chickens clucked noisily outside, the cows joining in their song occasionally with their loud chorus of moo’s. None of these sounds woke Shane up in the slightest - he heard them every day and he’d grown so accustomed to the noise, he figured he’d still be able to continue sleeping even if his bedroom floor caved in beneath his bed.

The slightly battered alarm clock sitting on Shane’s bedside table began its shrill ringing at 6:30am sharp. Shane tended to run by a strict ‘5 more minutes’ rule when it came to waking up in the morning however. Refusing to open his eyes till he absolutely had to, Shane managed to turn off the alarm clock by swatting aimlessly with his hand till it met with cold metal and the ringing stopped.

He tried to fall back asleep for those precious extra 5 minutes of peace before he had to leave for his soul-sucking job at JojaMart. However, memories of the night before began to flood back into his mind. Shane had been up in the mountains late at night, drinking again. He faintly remembered seeing the hermit (Linus, was it?) entering his tent, a plastic bag that was stuffed to the brim with what looked like half-eaten food grasped tightly in his hands.

Shane had drunk a couple cans of beer before he decided to enter the mines nearby. It had been dark and full of strange noises neither human nor animal could make but Shane had managed to make it down several floors with a pickaxe he’d found at the mine entrance in his drunken state. As to why he’d chosen to do this, Shane had no idea whatsoever.

He didn’t remember much else except for the sound of a creature speaking in a garbled ancient language, a warm tingling sensation that filled his entire body, and finally the sharp pain that shot through his head as he finally keeled over from the amount of alcohol in his system, smashing his head against the rocky terrain. Oddly enough, his head didn’t hurt at all this morning. Doctor Harvey must’ve patched him up real good this time. Or maybe Marnie had. Who’d even brought him back to the house?

Just as he was beginning to wonder if he was actually found with trousers on this time, Shane heard the sound of the front door slamming shut. Marnie must have gone out to feed the animals. Shane was just about to roll over onto his side to continue his reminiscing when it began to dawn on him that he’d probably been in bed for more than just 5 minutes.

Shane quickly sat up in bed and grabbed the alarm clock. It was now 7:10am! He couldn’t risk Morris docking his pay again this month - he had to get to JojaMart quick. He jumped out of bed and had just put his leg through a pair of jeans when he noticed that it’d turned from blue to gray. When had that happened? He remembered wearing this exact pair of jeans just two days ago and he certainly hadn’t ever bought gray ones before.

It was then that he realized - everything had turned gray from his walls, to the cushion placed in front of the television set, to the alarm clock, and even his own skin.

I’ve finally done it, haven’t I? I died in those fucking mines last night and now, I’m in some kind of Hell?

The thought ran through Shane’s mind as he spun around, inspecting everything in his room for any sign of colour. This was to no avail. Even his favourite pair of boxers was gray with slightly darker gray hearts dotting it. In a moment of pure desperation, Shane decided to pinch himself as hard as he could on his arm in an attempt to find out if he was in fact still alive. He was.

Rubbing the sore patch of skin on his arm, Shane decided that he didn’t have time to waste standing here and waiting to see if the world around him would get its colour back. If he was still alive, he needed to get to work pronto. He quickly pulled on his ratty, old JojaMart jacket that still did its job and ran out of the house, only just remembering to shut his bedroom door behind him because he just didn’t think he could deal with Marnie yelling at him again about the mess of empty beer cans and pizza boxes in there.

Shane ran through town, almost knocking over Abigail who had just left Pierre’s General Store with a flute in her hands. It worried him to no end that even her usually bright purple of her hair (She must dye it, right?) was now a dull gray, but Shane had no time to be stressing about that now. He’d just have to wait till during his break or after work.

Once he’d arrived at JojaMart, Shane immediately went to the employees office to clock in and change into the uniform. He took a moment to glance at his reflection in the mirror and sighed as he noted that the usually bright blue uniform was just as unflattering as always in a gray shade. He walked out onto the shop floor and began stocking the shelves, determined to just get through the day now.

However, he must’ve done something to offend Yoba because Shane’s shift did not go well at all. He’d first managed to trip over his own feet and crashed straight into the display of limited edition shrimp-flavoured Joja Cola that he’d been hard at work stacking up for over an hour. As Shane was stomping angrily back onto the shop floor with a bucket of soapy water and a mop in his hands, he’d then bumped into Pam who’d screamed in rage when she discovered her brand-new jumpsuit was now soaked. Even though he’d apologized profusely to Pam, Shane still had to sit through an hour and a half of Morris’s lectures as well as had his paycheck docked for the day to reimburse Pam for the damages.

Just as he thought his day couldn’t get any worse however, Shane was just about to clock out for his lunch break when Morris asked him to help Sam unload the delivery trucks that had just arrived with a new shipment of powdered butter, gluten pucks and Carbo Cones. This meant he had to endure almost an hour’s worth of listening to Sam go on and on about how awesome some indie band in Grampleton was - which on some days, was fine. Just not today, for Yoba’s sake. Instead of putting up a fuss however (Morris wouldn’t care anyway), Shane simply gritted his teeth and headed out to the back of JojaMart.

It wasn’t till 2pm that Shane finally managed to clock out for his break. He flopped down onto a seat at a small round metal table in the employee’s break room and stared at the silently humming vending machine in the corner of the room. The vending machine sold only JojaMart products, all of them disgusting and overly sweet - Shane had tried each one. At first, he wondered to himself ‘Wasn’t that vending machine blue before?” before it dawned on him for the second time that day that he hadn’t been able to see colours all day. As crazy as it sounded, he’d just been so distracted with work that he hadn’t had time to notice.

Shane leaned back in his seat and crossed his arms, biting his lower lip in concentration. How had this happened? Had something happened to him in the mines? Maybe he should pay Doctor Harvey a visit after work, he would know what to do.

“Knock knock!,” a familiar voice suddenly came from the direction of the door. Shane, who had been staring blankly at a spot on the table, looked up to see who had managed to sneak into the break room in surprise but flinched almost immediately, bringing a hand up to shield his eyes from the sudden burst of colour amongst the gray. Once his eyes had adjusted, Shane saw that the voice belonged to the new farmer that had recently moved into the farm out of the town. They were now standing by the door, their hands clasped behind their back.

He must’ve been staring at the farmer for just a moment too long because they’d then asked “Shane? Are you okay? with an eyebrow raised questioningly. Shane cleared his throat and stood up from his chair, moving to stand in front of the vending machine. It was hard to tell what he was looking at when all the cans were the same gray colour, but he pretended to be deciding which drink he was going to buy to buy himself some time. His heart was beating so fast in his chest, Shane began to wonder if he was about to pass out.

Why’s the farmer the only one who’s in colour? Why of all people has it got to be them?!

Just as he thought of something smart to say, Shane heard the sound of the break room door opening again. He spun around to find the farmer already halfway out the door. However, the farmer noticed at the last moment that Shane had finally turned around and was now looking at them. They hesitated for a moment before saying with a shy smile tracing their lips “I’ve gotta go now but...I’ll be stopping by the Stardrop Saloon tomorrow night, I hope I’ll see you there there?”

“I-I’ll see you there!,” Shane blurted out, feeling his cheeks begin to heat up. The farmer flashed him a warm smile before shutting the door behind them. Shane fell back into his seat and buried his face in his hands, mentally screaming at himself for two main reasons. One, he had sounded way too excited at the prospect of seeing the farmer again. Two, had the farmer just subtly invited him on a date? And did he just...agree to it? What was going on today?!

Not once did he stop to wonder why the farmer hadn’t turned gray like everything else, himself included.

Shane managed to breeze through the second half of his shift at JojaMart without any further mishaps, and had made it all the way back home with his head high up in the clouds. He popped a frozen pizza he’d stolen from JojaMart’s freezers into the oven and entered his bedroom, kicking his shoes off at the door.

He was just wondering if people still brought their date flowers in these modern days when he noticed a small slip of paper that was being held in place beneath a small stone that was smooth to the touch. Written on the paper in a barely legible script were the words ‘Lost your ability to see colour, huh? If you want it back, meet me at the mines tonight at 11pm’.

Shane looked around his room and decided to check the windows. They were locked. Whoever had delivered this note must’ve come in from the front door but Marnie who had been home all day would have said something to him if someone had come looking for him. She hadn’t though, so they must have snuck in without her seeing. Now he knew how they got in, there was still one question left unanswered:

Who sent me this note?

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

Author Notes:

Part 2 will be up sometime later this week so stay tuned for that.

If you'd like my work and would like to support me, please consider donating to my Ko-fi @ https://ko-fi.com/stellawella97 where I am offering custom fanfic commissions for a cup of coffee! It'd really help me out. Thank you <3

[plunnies-n-shit]

Starfall

so anyways when the war is over and the girls are going off to college and Isshin has fucked off back to the Soul Society, Ichigo is going through his mom's old stuff while he's getting ready to sell the clinic.

most of it can be sold or donated, some of it the girls or ichigo is keeping.

But he also finds some documents from the Kurosaki family.

it turns out his grandfather on his mom's side owned some property. A lot of property actually. It'd been a really successful farm at one point. Ownership had passed to Masaki, and she had everything set up so that, in the event of her death, it would pass to Ichigo.

The property alone would be worth an actual fortune, but the mansion is old enough to be considered historic and would be worth a lot if it were fixed up, not to mention all of the equipment on the property. Or the honest-to-god vault and the contents therein. selling it would set him and the girls up for life.

But.

It's not like they're bad off. Kisuke has promised to pay for the girls' college and anything they need beyond that, and with Isshin's savings and the recompensation Seireitei gave Ichigo for fighting three wars for him...

and

farming sounds.... nice..........

Ichigo closes the box he was digging through, and, deed in hand, looks up tickets to Stardew Valley.

The place is an actual shithole when he gets there. one of the locals has fixed up a room and the kitchen for him, but the house is falling apart. The fields are so overgrown that Ichigo can barely tell where they used to be. It'll probably be easier and cheaper to demolish most of the buildings on the farm and rebuild them entirely. Ichigo doesn't even want to think about how much it's going to cost to repair the greenhouse. Or to get rid of the mold in the cellar.

It's slow going, learning how to grow his garden to a field to a farm, earning enough to repair the mansion.

The first thing he does is rebuild the coop because chickens. chickens are easy right? and Ichigo likes eggs.

Chickens are difficult actually.

But Marnie's nephew, Shane, raises these fluffy bright blue chickens

and Ichigo takes one look at them and they remind him so viscerally of Grimmjow that he gets two of them right on the spot.

And he catches himself all the time thinking "Grimmjow might like this" or "would Grimmjow enjoy this?"

And at some point the mansion is repaired and the farm is rebuilt and the Kurosaki Farm is restored to its former glory and Ichigo realizes that he loves this place, he loves this life, he loves Stardew Valley, he wouldn't give it up for the world, but he's also...

kinda lonely.

It's the fifth day of spring, and it's the first time Ichigo's actually gotten to go to the tavern since spring started, he's been so busy planting, but Pam is talking about a visitor she drove in from out of town who's "all the way from Karakura, how about that?" and who's been staying in hostel that's been built where the jojomart used to be

and Ichigo's heart leaps into his throat

(It's Grimmjow of course it's Grimmjow who else would it be except Grimmjow.)

(Grimmjow who's been run around for 5 days because the townspeople know that Ichigo is stressed out with the planting season and Grimmjow clearly is....)

(A Lot)

(But Grimmjow was promised a fight and he'll travel as far as it takes to cash that in.)

[stardew-vxlley]

are you going to kiss me or not?

summary: winter is a tough time for the farmer. when shane finds her worrying about her animals refusing to eat, he decides to lend a helping hand. 

pairing: shane x fem!farmer

word count: 1.9k

“Good morning my precious children!” the farmer sang aloud, ducking her head as she entered into the small coop to make sure her chickens were fed. They huddled together in the far corner, watching her wearily. 

Her eyes flickered to the untouched hay that sat in the feed trough. Frowning, she knelt down in front of the little mob of animals, reaching out a tentative hand. 

“Why aren’t you guys eating?” she cooed at them, trying to pet at least one of them. They shied away from her hand, clucking angrily. The farmer sat back on her heels with a frustrated sigh and scratched her chin. Her chickens bobbed and pecked at the wooden floor, but refused to touch their hay. 

She got to her feet and inspected the hay, suspicious. Maybe it was tainted. After finding nothing immediately wrong with it, the farmer sighed again and looked back at her chickens. 

“I’m going to go talk to Marnie,” she told them, exiting the coop. 

The farmer trudged through the fresh snow that had fallen overnight. It was midday, and already there were large, grey clouds looming ominously in the distance that promised another storm later this evening. She shivered as she reached Marnie’s ranch, stomping the snow off her boots before entering the shop. 

Warmth greeted her happily as she closed the heavy wooden door behind her. However, Marnie wasn’t at the counter; the whole house was empty and quiet. 

The farmer approached the counter with uncertainty, pulling her woolen scarf from her neck. “Hello?” she called out. No one answered except the steady ticking of the clock on the wall. 

Her shoulders slumped in disappointment. What was she going to do about her chickens? Nobody else knew animals as well as Marnie. With a heavy heart, she wrapped her scarf around her neck again and started towards the door, but her feet faltered once she heard footsteps on the wooden floorboards down the hall. Turning around, she was surprised to see Shane standing in the doorway with disheveled hair and dark circles underneath his eyes. 

“Oh--I didn’t think anyone was home,” the farmer said, suppressing a blush and fidgeting with the hem of her scarf. “I was looking for Marnie.”               

He blinked, as if finally registering that she was standing there in front of him. He awkwardly cleared his throat and tried--and failed--to casually lean against the doorframe. “She’s--uh, she’s not here. At pilates. With Caroline.” 

The farmer slapped a hand to her forehead as realization dawned on her. “It’s Tuesday, isn’t it?” she groaned.      

“All day,” Shane replied, picking at his nails. 

“Damn,” the farmer cursed, and crossed her arms. “Oh well...thank you for telling me.” She turned towards the door, preparing for the cold. 

“Did you need supplies or something?” he suddenly blurted out. “I can still ring you up for whatever you need.” 

She glanced at him over her shoulder. He looked like a lost puppy--eyes wide and open, despite the dark circles beneath them. 

“I, uh--I just needed some advice about chickens,” the farmer sheepishly admitted. “They haven’t been eating.” 

Shane perked up at the word “chicken”. “Not eating? That’s not good.” 

“No,” the farmer sadly agreed. “I can’t seem to figure out why. I leave fresh hay for them every morning...they just refuse to touch it. At first I thought maybe there was something wrong with the hay, but I didn’t find anything.” 

Shane scratched his chin. “Maybe I could come visit them and see if something else is wrong.” 

The farmer’s eyes lit up. “Oh, that would be amazing! Are you busy right now? I really could use your help.” 

His cheeks turned a shade of crimson at her words. “Uh--yeah, yeah--let me just, uh, get dressed. Be right back.” With that, he rapidly turned on his heel and disappeared down the hall, his heavy footsteps moving quickly across the wooden floorboards. 

The farmer stifled a giggle. She always had a soft spot for the awkward ones. 

He suddenly appeared again, dressed in a thick winter coat. “Okay,” he said breathlessly, “let’s go.” 

―

“I think I know what the problem is,” Shane remarked as the two of them crouched together inside the cramped chicken coop. He had been watching the flock of birds intently for what seemed like ages, eyes following their every move. “You need a heater in here.” 

“A heater,” the farmer said as she pinched the bridge of her nose. “I should have known!” 

“It’s alright,” Shane reassured her and patted her shoulder. “It’s your first winter. At least now you know.” 

“All thanks to you,” she looked over and smiled at him. “I really appreciate you coming over and helping me. It means a lot.” 

His ears turned pink. “Y-yeah, no problem.” 

“You really like chickens, don’t you?” 

“I do,” he replied, reaching out to one of them. It clucked lovingly and pushed its feathered head right into his palm, earning an impressed laugh from the farmer. 

“Chino doesn’t like a lot of people,” she told him as she watched him pet it carefully. “I think you’re his favorite.” At the sound of her voice, Chino bobbed away from Shane and bumped into her knee with a soft cluck. 

Shane chuckled, lifting his gaze to meet hers. “I think you’re his favorite.” 

The farmer’s heart suddenly began pounding in her ears. He was so close to her, she could feel his breath on her face and smell the faint cologne still sticking to the blue sweatshirt he wore underneath his coat. She blinked, eyes darting to his full lips--parted and soft. So close…

She hadn’t even realized she began to lean in towards him until she registered the shock on his face. 

“Oh--God, I’m so sorry--that wasn’t--I don’t know what I was doing--” she tripped and stumbled over her words as she fell away from him. 

Shane abruptly tried to get to his feet, resulting in his head slamming into the the top of the chicken coop. He swore and rubbed his head, trying to scramble away from her. “No--no, it’s alright--” 

“Shane, wait!” she called after him as he managed to finally escape the coop. He was already making a beeline towards the woods once she freed herself, boots stomping heavily in the snow. “I can explain!” 

“Don’t worry about it!” he threw over his shoulder as he grew smaller and smaller. “I’ll have the heater delivered later today!” 

“Shane!” 

And just like that, he disappeared through the treeline at the edge of the farm. With a frustrated groan, the farmer knocked the heel of her hand against her forehead. “Stupid--so stupid.”

―

True to his word, Marnie showed up a few hours later with not one, but two heaters. 

“One for the coop and one for the barn,” Marnie told her with a wink. “And don’t worry about paying me back right now. Just get it to me when you can.” 

“I can’t thank you enough,” the farmer said. “Did--did Shane say anything else to you when you saw him? Besides the heaters.” 

“Does he have something else to tell me?” 

The farmer bit her lip and turned her focus to the floor of her farmhouse. “No.” 

“He’s a tough one to crack,” Marnie said, forcing the farmer to look back up at her. “And you’ve made a lot of progress already...just give it time.” 

The farmer nodded. With a cheerful farewell, Marnie left the house, leaving her alone with only her thoughts and the sound of the cold winter wind outside. 

After a while, she got up and installed the heaters in the barn and the coop. Almost immediately, the animals’ attitudes changed as warmth spread through the wood. Her chickens began to eat their hay with gusto, earning a relieved sigh from the farmer. 

“I was worried about you guys,” she spoke aloud to them amidst the clucking. “You guys are lucky Shane loves chickens so much.” 

The farmer dusted her palms on her pants and left the coop. Through the dark clouds of the evening, the moon cast its light over the quiet, snow-covered farm as she began walking back towards the house so she could get some rest. As she climbed the steps tiredly, teeth chattering, she heard the unmistakable sound of boots crunching in the snow. 

Looking over her shoulder, her eyes went wide with surprise. Shane was trudging through the snow towards her house, looking downright miserable. 

“What are you doing out here so late?” she called to him as she hurried to his side. “It’s freezing!” 

“You’re out here,” he said pointedly, arching an eyebrow. 

The farmer scoffed. “I was putting in my new heaters, thank you very much. C’mon--I’ll make some hot cocoa and start a fire.” 

They reached her porch when he put out a hand to stop her. “Wait--I have something to say. I owe you an apology.” 

“No, it was my fault,” the farmer said as she shook her head. “I don’t know what I was thinking.” 

“I shouldn’t have ran away.” 

“Can’t we talk about this inside?” she pleaded, pulling on his arm. “You know, where it’s warm?” 

Shane didn’t budge. He looked down at her, searching her eyes. She suddenly felt very small underneath his gaze, shrinking away from him. 

“You’re constantly in my head,” he said, raking a hand through his unruly hair. “All the time. At work, at the bar, at home--I can’t get you out of my mind.” 

“Shane…” the farmer sighed, but he held up a hand to stop her. 

“I’m not perfect,” he went on, closing his eyes. “I’ve been angry, sad, and confused for most of my life--but whenever I’m with you, I’m calm, happy, and everything just feels right.” He opened his eyes and stared at her, transfixed on her beautiful features.                  

“Well?” the farmer asked, crossing her arms. 

“Well what?” 

“Are you going to kiss me or not?” 

That was all he needed to hear. His lips were just as warm and soft as she had imagined as they pressed against her own, his arms snaking around her waist to pull her closer while her fingers reached up to tangle in his hair. There was something about the intimacy of the kiss that excited her, as if this was something that had been waiting for a long time to happen. 

All too soon, Shane pulled away, his hot breath fanning over the farmer’s face. She leaned back breathlessly, sweet, swollen lips parted slightly. He regarded her with such admiration that it made her blush. 

“Wow,” she finally murmured, reaching up to touch her lips. “That was--” 

“Incredible,” he finished for her, and he pressed his forehead against hers. “You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to do that.” 

The farmer smiled and sighed in content. She inhaled his earthy scent mixed with cologne, never wanting to leave his embrace. But all good things must come to an end, and he gently pulled away from her. 

“I’ve gotta get back,” he said, reaching up and tucking an errant strand of hair behind her ear. “I just wanted to tell you how I felt.” 

“I feel the same way,” she replied softly. 

“I’ll see you soon, okay?” he told her as his thumb grazed her cheek. “I can’t stay away from you for too long.” 

With another, more tender, goodbye kiss, Shane left her on the porch, disappearing again through the trees. The farmer stood there staring after him, left with only the sound of the winter wind whispering through the branches.

[hibiscustea9]

10,000 views on “Fire Walk with Me”!

YOU GUYS. Late last night, “Fire Walk with Me” hit 10,000 views. I am beyond blown away by this. Nothing I have ever written has come anywhere close to the reception this story has gotten. To celebrate, I’m going to make the sort of post I don’t usually make and share one of my headcanons for each of the Stardew Valley villagers (excepting the few who don’t have any real impact on the story, like Gil and the Ginger Island villagers). Read on below the jump to see these (some of which have been shared already in “Fire Walk with Me”) and thank you, thank you for all of your support and reading this story. It’s made me so very happy.

Abigail secretly loves disco music. She hates the aesthetic and clothing of the era, but she will rock out to any of the great disco bands or divas when in her room and with her earbuds in. She would sooner die than have Sam and Sebastian find out about this.

Alex had offers to attend several universities on a full ride scholarship to play gridball, but turned them down out of fear of failing out of school. After high school, he was diagnosed as dyslexic. His teachers were encouraged to just pass him through without making him complete the work, which left him deeply insecure. He now has plans to go to trade school, which he feels might be his ticket out of Pelican Town.

Caroline is the wizard’s daughter, and a lay green witch. Her father was a sailor who was lost at sea and Rasmodius comforted her mother (which is the regret Rasmodius has that broke up his marriage). Caroline’s hair is naturally green. She is not aware of her magic, which manifests mostly as being able to grow any plants she wishes.

Clint left Pelican Town to go to college, only to have to come back when his father died to take care of his mother. He was a voice major and has a lovely singing voice, though he’s often too shy to show it off these days.

Demetrius is a skilled teacher and used to adjunct biology classes at Grampleton Community College to help support his family when Robin was getting her carpentry business off the ground. While he enjoyed teaching, the commute and long hours burnt him out after a year and he hasn’t felt the urge to teach since.

The Dwarf is a huge movie buff, but even more than the films, she enjoys turning around while sitting in the front row to look at the faces of the people watching the films.

Elliott is not a citizen of Ferngill but a foreign national. His posh accent and vocabulary rubbed some townsfolk the wrong way when he moved to Pelican Town. He managed to get on the good side of those same townsfolk when he accidentally knocked his bait bucket all over himself at his first Festival of Ice but continued fishing through it, coming in a respectable second to Willy that year.

Emily genuinely believes in the healing power of crystals and positive thinking, though she also has great respect for traditional medicine. She often asks Harvey medical questions when he’s at the bar. For his part, Harvey truly enjoys being able to talk about his discipline with anyone else, even a crunchy granola type like Emily.

Evelyn stopped believing in Yoba after her daughter was diagnosed with cancer and died young, leaving Alex in her care. She has never let on, given how George makes a point of attending weekly services. Seeing how much Clara suffered, first in an abusive marriage and then going through the failed treatment for her cancer, left Evelyn unable to believe in an all-powerful deity. Instead, she aims to spread as much kindness as she can, seeking salvation in other people instead of worship of Yoba.

George started watching so much television when Alex came to live with him and Evelyn. He didn’t like TV much before then, but got in the habit of letting Alex stay up late and watch reruns with him. While he claims to enjoy westerns the most, he has a not-so-secret love for classic game show reruns. The way the women dress reminds him of Evelyn when she was young, though he thinks none of them are quite as pretty as Evelyn.

Gus used to run a successful restaurant in the Zuzu City suburbs and is a classically-trained chef. The stress of running the restaurant and being in charge of both the front and back of the house took a toll on his health and his doctors recommended he step back and find something less strenuous to do. With his proceeds from selling the restaurant, he built the Stardrop Saloon and now is much happier with his life.

Gunther is a local son of Pelican Town who moved away to attend grad school in library science. He had a job in Zuzu City but moved back when he learned of the theft of the collection. He secretly resents returning to Pelican Town, which he was eager to leave, but feels it is his duty to stay and ensure the library is taken care of.

Haley’s ringtone on her phone is the National Geographic theme. When she was young, her parents took her and Emily all over the world and she grew fascinated with other cultures and other places. She has planned all the trips she wants to take. As much as she and Emily bicker, Emily is her favorite travel companion.

Harvey and his family were very poor when he was growing up. When he was fourteen, his sister contracted scarlet fever and they were unable to afford a doctor’s visit. A local doctor from a clinic came by and left medicine at her own expense. This led Harvey to pursue medicine as a career; he could make much more money in Grampleton or Zuzu City, but he stays on in Pelican Town because they really need a doctor. 

Jas helped Shane with his experiments in breeding the chickens. She has a natural head for science and once she got hold of Shane’s books, she plotted out how to look for recessive genes that would allow for chickens to be bred and emerge with blue feathers. She and Shane have a gentlemen’s agreement to not tell Marnie.

Jodi worked as a travel agent before she married Kent. She always envisioned the trips they would take as soon as they had the money, and then when Sam was grown, and then when Vincent was grown. She sometimes stays up late on the computer, looking at flight plans and planning the most affordable trips that would allow her to travel and see the places she most wants to see in the world.

Kent found comfort in another soldier when they were in the Gotoro prison camp. Though it became physical, it was more about finding something to hold onto than about the sex. His guilt over this relationship kept him distant from Jodi and his sons when he first returned. After confessing his indiscretion to Jodi, they attended relationship counseling. She has forgiven him, but he has yet to forgive himself.

Krobus is technically a liquid.

Leah earned an M.F.A. from Zuzu State, where she met and became friends with Elliott. Prior to attending her program, she interned as an apprentice carpenter in Grampleton. It was these same contacts who told her about Pelican Town and Robin, who let Leah stay at her home while she looked for a house to rent in town. Leah not so secretly has a crush of admiration on Robin.

Lewis, before becoming mayor of Pelican Town, owned a leatherworking business. He misses working with his hands, which is one of the reasons why he always visits the shopkeepers and is insistent on there being booths at the Stardew Valley Fair for the artisans in town to show off their wares.

Linus used to live in Pelican Town. He has a living relative in town. [REMAINDER REDACTED: SPOILERS FOR UPCOMING CHAPTERS OF “FIRE WALK WITH ME”]

Marlon saved George’s life the day of the mine cave-in. He was the only one willing to enter the caves and seek out the last missing miner. It was in the process of doing so that a falling rock blinded him in one eye. Despite his injury, Marlon managed to pull George to safety up through the mine shafts. Though his lost eye made him unable to be an active member of the Adventurer’s Guild, Marlon does not regret anything and would absolutely do it again.

Marnie wanted to be a veterinarian. She did very well in college, earning a degree in animal sciences from Zuzu State, and was on the verge of leaving Pelican Town permanently to pursue vet school when she interned at a vet’s office in Grampleton for a summer. She was so distraught the first time she had to assist with putting a dog to sleep that she gave up on the career and decided to open her ranch. She makes it a point to be present any time an animal has to be put to sleep to give it comfort, even though it wrecks her emotionally.

Maru got into science after Sebastian was completely uninterested in a chemistry set he got one year for the Feast of the Winter Star. She is still passionate about chemistry, despite her other interests in biology and robotics. She was briefly the most popular kid in town, despite being younger than most of the other young adults, when she learned how to make ice cream using ingredients found in any kitchen.

Morris was a child actor who had a small role in Junimo Forest, a nearly-forgotten children’s movie from more than forty years ago. He owns six of the known twenty surviving copies of the film.

Mr. Qi took Sandy on as his ward after her parents, who worked for him, died suddenly. He considers Sandy to be his own daughter and always looks out for her. It’s why the Oasis is still in business despite barely getting any customers.

Pam and Penny used to live above the library. Pam’s husband and Penny’s father was the former curator, who made off with the entire collection on a day when Pam took Penny to an academic competition her senior year of high school. The trailer was the only thing they could afford to move into. This was when Pam started drinking so heavily and Penny started longing so much to live in a house of her own.

Pierre holds a degree in economics that he wanted to use to help boost his family’s business. His secret stash is stock options that he has been investing in since taking over Pierre’s General Store from his father. Neither Caroline nor Abigail knows about this money that Pierre is sitting on.

(I am not the biggest fan of Pierre, in case you can’t guess.)

Rasmodius only built his tower after his daughter, Caroline, was born. He has looked over Caroline and her family ever since. Though his lifespan will last far beyond Caroline’s, he plans to watch over Abigail after she is gone, as well as any children Abigail has, or their descendants. His greatest regret is not being present in Caroline’s life as she was growing up.

Robin wanted to be a ballroom dancer, but at 5′11 was far too tall to actually enter the ballroom circuit. She met Demetrius at amateur ballroom dancing lessons and still knows how to perform any ballroom or Latin dances she learned. Her favorite dance is the tango because of the crisp precision required. After she retires, she and Demetrius have a plan to travel and dance the tango in all of the countries where it is taught.

Sam, despite a love of pranks, only ever really got in trouble once while in high school. He and Sebastian cut class and went to a local park, where Sam skateboarded and Sebastian smoked. A missed trick made Sam get so scraped up he had road rash for a month. After he got home, Jodi read him the riot act for once and grounded him from skateboarding until school was out. That was when Sam got into guitar and started thinking seriously about a career in music.

Sandy met Emily at a holistic retreat. She used to work for Mr. Qi, selling snake oil (literally - his iridium milk sells for a huge amount to those in the know), but was so energized by her encounter and conversation with Emily that she decided to go into running her own store.

Sebastian’s favorite adult in town (other than his mom) is Marnie, who recognizes in him a kindred spirit. Marnie taught Sebastian how to catch frogs when he was young and he still occasionally seeks her out to talk to and ask advice from. He vehemently dislikes Lewis because of his refusal to acknowledge his relationship with Marnie, and wants to see Marnie in a relationship with someone who will treat her right.

Shane was on track to be a major gridball star, and was the hope of Stardew Valley High, before getting in a car accident senior year. He almost lost a leg and had to spend six months relearning how to walk. He began drinking heavily afterward to cope with the constant physical pain. Marnie reached out to friends of his in Zuzu City, who had him come live with them and dry out. He remained sober until three months after he moved back to Pelican Town with Jas, his goddaughter. He started drinking again after working at JojaMart, much to Marnie’s dismay.

Vincent changes what he wants to be when he grows up on a weekly basis. Past desired jobs have included soldier (like his dad), musician (like his brother), teacher (like Miss Penny, but something fun like art, not yucky like spelling), game show host, Flower Queen, surfer, and astronaut. Jodi amuses herself by imagining what her son will wear to work on the weeks where he insists he’s going to be some combination of the above.

Willy is a veteran of the Ferngill Coast Guard. He is from the Fern Islands but vowed never to return after some of his siblings disputed his father’s will and caused a massive feud. He joined the Coast Guard as a way to stay on the water and get away from the islands. He was honorably discharged after suffering an injury on a rescue mission and decided to settle in the most peaceful seaside town in Ferngill that he could find, which led him to Pelican Town.

Once again, thank you all so, so, so much for reading “Fire Walk with Me”! I hope you enjoyed these headcanons and that they give you some insight into some of the way I’ve written characters in the story.

[sugarbooger513]

Stardew Valley fic Ch. 1

What if Stardew was about triplets rather than just a single farmer? 

I got this idea out of the blue and, since I have this obsession with Stardew and the amazing characters, I just had to write about my very unappreciated baby. 

Jamie belongs to @savonline​ and Maia belongs to @katgalle​

"Ellie... Earth to Ellie!" Ellie snaps her head up from the letter she was reading. One of her sisters, Maia, is standing at the front door of the small cabin. Maia lets out the smallest sigh possible. "You okay?" "Yeah, I am. I just got distracted by a letter dad sent me. What's up?" Maia tilts her head, allowing her very long red hair to fall to one side. "What did dad send you?" "Just a letter. He doesn't say much to me. Don't worry about that, sis. What did you need?"

"Oh, I just wanted to check on you. Usually you're with Marlon this time of day, but neither me or Jamie saw you leave your house." Ellie glances at the clock hanging above her bed with a groan. It's already eight in the morning? Where did the morning even go? "Yeah, Marlon has a doctor's appointment today, so we're going farther down the mines tomorrow. I can come help with the farm, if you want." "I would love that, actually. The chickens are in some sort of mood today, and I have my hands full with some fish for Willy. Just.. do me a favor?" "Anything for you, dear." Maia grins, but glances at a pair of dirty boots in the corner of the room. "Don't wear those in the barn. You'll track even more slime and I'll be stuck scraping it." Maia walks out, leaving Ellie to laugh by herself. It seems like just yesterday the the triplets moved to Stardew Valley, following their grandfather's note. He even had two extra cabins on the plot ready for his three granddaughters. He just knew that they did all of their life changing things together. It's hard to think that, in just a few weeks, fall will be here. The air, even though summer is in full swing, has started getting chillier by the passing day. Ellie finally stands from her seat at the small table to find her extra pair of work boots. As she searches, her front door opens once again. This time, the third triplet, Jamie, steps inside with a big smile on her face. She has the same grey eyes that Maia has, but her hair is dyed a bright aqua color. She also sports it in braided pigtails at almost all times. "Did Maia already come check on you?" "Of course she did. She worries about me too much." "Hey," Jamie crosses her arms over her chest with a playful pout, "I worry, too." Ellie pulls her boots on before she starts working on her hair. As usual, she pulls just enough of her brown waves to make two cute space buns on the top of her head. "I know you do, Jamie, but you don't voice it as often as Maia does." Jamie leans on the door frame, watching as Ellie pulls on her signature jean jacket. "Hmm, I guess you have a point. You got any big plans for today?" "No, not since Marlon has a doctor's appointment. Why? What are you up to?" "Oh," her cheeks dust a light pink, which makes Ellie think of cotton candy, "I found an amethyst yesterday, so I was going to give it to Abigail." When Ellie smirks, Jamie reaches out to smack her sister's arm. "Ouch, Jamie." "Well, learn to shut up." "I didn't say anything." Jamie scrunches her nose at the smirk Ellie still sends her way. "I read your mind, obviously." "Hmm? Then what am I thinking about right now?" Now it's Jamie's turn to smirk. "Shane, obviously." "I'll give you a C for effort, but the correct answer is 'how many blueberries can I nab before Maia notices and kicks my ass'." Ellie ignores the look that Jamie is still sending her. Truth be told, she is thinking of Shane, but not for the reason that Jamie seems to be wanting. She ended up promising a drink with Shane at the Saloon tonight since she hasn't had the chance to hang out with him for a few days. "So, no Shane?" "No Shane. Sorry, but I'm not crushing on him. Why does everyone think I am?" "You two talk all the time, that's all." Ellie sighs softly and finally shoves Jamie out of her cabin so she can go outside. "I didn't understand that talking to a friend meant you were up to smash. Thanks for informing me. Now, if you don't mind, I have chickens to take care of." Jamie giggles, but finally allows her sister to walk towards the coop. Ellie sighs once she's away from earshot of Jamie. She loves both of her sisters more than anything, but being away from them is sometimes the best thing for her. The three of them really went from being dressed alike, to becoming three completely different people. Maia is shy and pretty reserved, Jamie is the jokester of the group who wants nothing more than a good mystery, and Ellie is the 'big sister' figuratively and literally. She takes the role of 'oldest triplet' very seriously, and has always fought for her sisters. This also means she doesn't let people step over her, and that seems to have made her relationship with their dad very.. rocky. When dad sends the girls letters and gifts, the other two tend to get money or some supplies that are needed around the farm, but Ellie gets a letter wondering if she'll ever 'grow up' or 'if the farm has straightened her out'.  She ignores the letters usually, but lately Marlon has been telling her that it's a good idea to repair the bond they once had. She would like to, if for no other reason.. it would make Marlon happy. He's done a lot for her in the short time they've known each other. He acts like the dad she never felt she was attached to, and he knows that. She never lets him go unappreciated, and he's always invited to hang out with the triplets during events the town has. He rarely takes the offer, opting to stick around Linus most of the time (Who the triplets are also very fond of). The summer sun makes Ellie groan and tie her jacket around her waist. She refuses to ever leave it behind, but she isn't opposed to wearing it around her waist. Maia smiles when she sees Ellie walking to the coop door. "I left a basket in there for you. Thank you, Ellie. I know you don't like doing much of the actual farm work." "I go where I'm needed, Maia, so you won't hear me complaining." As soon as she goes into the coop, both of the chickens and the one duck turn to look at her. "What are you three doing in here? It's a nice day outside, stinkies." She scoops the duck into her arms, who buries her beak into Ellie's armpit. Ellie sits on the floor slowly, just in case one of the chickens makes a wrong step under her, and allows the two of them to jump into her lap. "You aren't in a mood, are you? Maia just has her hands full today and needed a little help." She takes a good five minutes just sitting there, petting the chickens and duck until the three of them seemed sick of her and waddle out of their little door. Once she brushes dust from her jeans, she opens the feeder to place more hay into their feeding trough. The duck didn't seem to lay any eggs, so she places the chicken eggs gently into the small whicker basket before she leaves the coop.   Maia smiles at the sight of Ellie carrying the basket. "Yo, the duck didn't lay anything." "Yeah, she doesn't lay as often as the chickens, but the two of them seemed to give some good eggs!" Ellie shrugs, taking one of the large things of milk from her sister. "Thank you." "I'm completely useless at the actual taking of product, so I'm more comfortable just being the person to carry everything." Maia giggles, patting her sister's arm. "What a kind pack mule." "Sure, I guess. Where do you want these?" "Oh," she points over at the small truck near her own cabin, "just in the bed of the truck. I'll go into town in just a little while to sell it. Maybe Pierre will actually be open today." Ellie chuckles to herself as she walks the milk and eggs over to the truck. The moment she gets them places in the bed, her cell phone dings. She checks it to see an unfamiliar number. She was going to assume it was a wrong number, or even a bot of some scam back in the city, but then they text again. 'Hello, is this Ellie? It's Doctor Harvey, and I have some news about Marlon. I asked if he had family I could contact, and you were the only number he gave. I understand you have work on a farm to handle, but if you could come into the clinic at your earliest convenience it would be most appreciated.' Ellie's blood turns to ice reading the text. What could be wrong with Marlon that she has to be called into his appointment? Not only that, but Marlon gave Doctor Harvey her contact information. Shouldn't he think of someone else to come to it instead? 'No problem, Doctor! I'm about to head into town with my sister, so I should be there in ten or fifteen minutes.' "Yo, Maia, are you almost done?" Maia pokes her head around a fence, obviously struggling with a goat. "Uh- I have to finish milking her, empty the mayonaisse and cheese makers, then load it all up. Why?" "For some reason Doctor Harvey wants to see me." She raises a red eyebrow. Ellie walks to the machines, quickly opening them up. "I have no idea, but he said it's about Marlon. Are these jars for this mayo?" "Yeah, they are. Hurry up and I'll get us into town. Where is Jamie?" "Wooing Abigail, I assume. She got her an amethyst from the mines." Maia snorts at that, finally managing to finish milking the upset goat. Ellie quickly loads everything for Maia as she goes to grab the truck keys. Maia, honestly, is the most responsible of the triplets, so they just leave the truck keys at her place so no one loses them. The two of them get into the truck, and Ellie suddenly realizes that her anxiety is rising at an alarming rate. "Ellie, he's okay. I'm sure he got a bad bruise and Harvey is worried for nothing." "You know the Doctor well?" Maia makes a sort of strangled noise. "Not.. well, but we've talked a handful of times. He's kind, but kind of intimidating." "Intimidating?" Maia sighs softly. "He's super smart. I mean that." "Awwwe, what happened to your crush on loudmouth?" "Are you trying to hint that I have a crush on Harvey?" "You're blushing, dear." Maia groans, her cheeks turning an even darker shade of red. "I'm blushing cause Sam was brought up, dumbass. Harvey isn't my type." "Why not? Too smart?" "Too much older. The smart thing I would be able to learn from." Ellie chuckles softly. "You totally like Sam cause he makes you seem like a genius." "No," Maia glares at her teasing sister, "he's super sweet to me, and I enjoy listening to his music." Maia has always been the one who had a thing for musicians. Considering how little she actually likes to interact with people, it comes as a shock to Ellie. When it comes to Jamie, she's all about women. Since they moved to Stardew, she has gotten super flustered around Abigail. Ellie hasn't really found anyone that has caught her eye around Pelican Town. However, when she let it slip that their friend Sebastian was a handsome guy, she thought her sisters were going to combust. Then Ellie became close friends with Shane, and it seems like the entirety of Pelican Town is interested in some "budding relationship" of theirs that really isn't there. It isn't just Ellie catching the heat for it, either. Just the other day Shane was texting her about his Aunt Marnie asking when he was going to take Ellie on 'a proper date'. Even his god daughter, Jas, has taken to hugging Ellie tightly anytime she visits their farm. It isn't that there's anything wrong with Shane, she loves him dearly and would do anything for their friendship, but that's as far as they go. Even Shane says that Ellie is a lot like a sister to him. "We're here. You know where the clinic is, right?" "Of course. The man has had to fix a few issues I had from some slime sneaking up on me." Maia smiles softly. "Just come find me when you're ready to head back. I'll just be around, probably at Sam's." Ellie hops out of the truck and walks to the clinic while staring at her feet. There's no way it can be a life or death situation. He just slipped on a slime trail and hurt his hip. Sure, he's an old man, but the guy is tough as nails. He wouldn't let something like that force him into retirement. She opens the door slowly, and sighs from the smell of.. doctor's office. If there's one thing that bothers her, it's doctor's offices. Ever since she was little, she has hated getting annual checkups. Her father would call her a baby over her getting nervous, and it never seemed to actually help her get over her fear. Shocker. "Hey, Ellie!" Ellie meets kind brown eyes and smiles at Maru. "Hey, Maru. I was-" "Just go on back and to the right. Doctor Harvey has Marlon lying down." Ellie rushes into the back of the clinic without wasting anymore time. As soon as she turns to the right, she sees Marlon lying down with his eyes closed. However, before she can rush into the room, a gentle hand is placed on her shoulder. She turns, meeting very kind green eyes behind thin rimmed glasses. "Ellie?" "Y-yeah. Is he-" "We can talk in the other room. He's resting right now, so I think we should allow him that." Ellie nods, still glancing over her shoulder at Marlon's sleeping form. He does seem rather comfortable. "Of course." Harvey leads her to what she can only assume is his office. He opens the door and smiles, beckoning her in ahead of him. "Please," he shuts his office door with a sigh, "take a seat and make yourself comfortable." Ellie nods without speaking. The chair on the opposite side of his desk has plush on it that forms around the shape of her rather comfortably. Harvey sits in the office chair across the desk with a soft smile. "Don't look so spooked, Marlon is going to live." That makes her finally let out a breath she never realized she had been holding. "I apologize for sending you a text rather than calling you. Marlon mentioned that you were possibly spending the morning helping your sisters out on the farm, and I was rather worried that either he or you would get angry about my interruption." Ellie can't help but giggle at the worry in the man's voice. He raises an eyebrow, waiting for her to actually speak. "It's not an issue, Doctor. I'll never be one to get mad over you doing your job. I just, uhh, don't understand why I was the one contacted." "I wish I could answer that for you, I truly do, but Marlon insisted that you be the one I get in touch with." Ellie rolls her eyes, but her face has a large smile on it. "The old man has issues beyond what you're treating him for, I swear." "Speaking of.. Marlon has a pretty bad hip fracture from his fall." Ellie winces. "Ouch. I had a bad feeling, but he insisted that he was fine. It took a lot of convincing to get him to see you today, actually." He nods understandingly. "I could tell from how he disregarded my worries. Onto the slightly.. easier to treat issue.." "There's more?" Harvey sighs. "Unfortunately he has a rather.. nasty infection in his leg. I assume a bat bit him and he didn't clean it out." Ellie actually facepalms. "Your assumption is correct, Doc. We both got bit by a few, but I could have sworn I cleaned all of his out. That's my fault.." "No," Harvey hold his hand up, "he knows how to clean and bandage his wounds. Anyways, he wasn't happy about the antibiotics and bed rest I talked about prescribing.." "Doc, you have my word that he will take his medicine and rest. I don't want to lose him yet to something as dumb as a bat bite." Harvey laughs, and Ellie finds herself joining in the laughter. "I'm happy to hear that, Ellie. I'm glad that his stubborn nature hasn't rubbed off on you." Ellie snorts softly. "Oh, it totally has, but I understand that he isn't exactly a spring chicken. I can convince him with the offer of some homemade wine or something." Harvey takes a second to think about what she said. "As a doctor, I ask that you watch how much alcohol he has at his age.. however, as a man who drinks red wine regularly.. I can't say you have a bad idea." "I'll certainly have to get you a bottle for all you've done for Marlon then, won't I?" "It isn't necessary, Ellie." "Ah, Doc, you can't just deny a gift like that." He tries not to smile, but the twitch of his mustache gives it away. "Hmm, it would be rather rude, I guess." His kind eyes search hers for a second. The lopsided grin she sends his way makes him realize that his cheeks have gone rather warm. What was it he was supposed to be telling her? "Ey, doc, I think my pain meds have worn off!" Ellie laughs softly at the sound of her mentor's call. "Well," Harvey stands and rubs his sweaty hands over his white coat, "it seems Marlon is awake. Lets go see how he is." "Right behind ya, doc." She follows Harvey as quickly as she can. In all fairness, one of his strides takes two or three of hers. When he notices, he slows down just enough that she notices. Marlon opens his eye that isn't covered by an eyepatch with a groan when the curtain is pulled back. "How was your nap, boss?" "Ellie, I will smack you." She snorts, reaching over to ruffle his grey hair. "Not with that hip, you won't. Why didn't you take care of your bat bites?" He groans at her worry. "Ellie, I'm fine." "Umm, try again." He sends a glare at her. "I will break you in training if you keep the attitude up." "I think you're more likely to completely break your hip, boss. I'm just worried about you." The glare that hardened his blue eye suddenly goes away. "I know, Ellie, I know. I promise I'm fine." Ellie jumps when Harvey taps her shoulders. "My apologies, but I have a chair for you to sit beside him." Ellie smiles, suddenly placing her hand gently on Harvey's bicep. "Thank you, doc. You're too kind." She doesn't miss the slight pink that covers his cheekbones now. Even the tip of his nose turns a slight pink shade this time. "I-I'm just doing my job. You two talk while I go get his antibiotics." When Harvey leaves the room, Ellie takes a seat beside Marlon's bed. He groans softly, and she notices that his legs aren't propped how he tends to keep them. "Here," she takes on of the pillows from beside him and slides it carefully under his legs, "is that better?" He smiles kindly at his apprentice. "Lots. Thank you, Ellie. I'm sorry to worry you." She sighs softly, not exactly meeting his kind gaze. "Marlon, you have to take better care of yourself." "I'm trying, but I can't just pass your training off to anyone else." Ellie smiles knowingly. "Yeah, but you can allow me to be the one to take the lead in the mines. I tend to notice trails of slime on the ground." He rolls his eye. "I can't believe I was that clumsy. Old age sucks." "Sadly, you won't be getting any younger, Marlon." Ellie smiles at Harvey as he walks back inside, a syringe in one hand. "Doc," Marlon grunts, "with all due respect.. shut the fuck up." Harvey glances at Ellie, amusement shining in his spring green eyes. "Of course, Marlon. I have a shot to start your antibiotics." "You need me to hold your hand, boss? Needles suck." Marlon sends Ellie another glare before rolling his sleeve up. "No, I've dealt with worse than- Shit!" Harvey chuckles softly when Marlon jumps slightly. "You were saying, boss?" Marlon glares now at Harvey, who throws away the used needle. "A warning would have been nice, doc!" "Sorry, I thought that would be nothing compared to the 'worse' you've dealt with." "Doc, when I can walk, you're going to need this bed." "Thankfully, I have confidence that I can outrun you. Now, if you send Ellie after me, I might have some issues." Ellie holds her hands up with a smile. "Nope, I'm on your side, doc." "Traitor." "I have a walker for you to take back to your place until your hip heals, Marlon." "Great, make me feel as old as I am." Harvey seems to get a little worried from that comment. "I'm truly sorry, Marlon. I just-" "Doc," Marlon interrupts him, "I get it. Don't apologize for doing your damn job. Can I head home now to rest?" Harvey nods, handing him a bottle. "Take that twice a day starting before bed tonight. Make sure you take all of them or the infection could come back. Oh, and eat with them. You'll get an upset stomach if you don't." "You want me to walk with you, boss?" "No. You go have fun for a while, but keep up with your exercises, okay?" "Yes sir. Be careful and call me if you need anything." Ellie and Harvey both watch, slightly worried, as Marlon gets the walker and leaves the clinic. Once the door shuts, Harvey breathes out a sigh of relief. "He seemed more reasonable once you showed up, that's for sure." "I hope he didn't offend you in anyway, doc. He.. tends to speak without thinking about the consequences." Harvey shakes his head. "I get it. He's just set in his ways, and he certainly isn't the worst about it." Ellie chuckles softly, which makes Harvey smile. "Hey, doc, I have a question." "Oh?" "Are you busy tonight?" His eyes widen slightly from the random question. He does have that model plane to finish back at his apartment.. and it's a good idea to finish organizing his medical reports, but something about the way she's so sweetly smiling at him makes him shake his head. "No, actually. I think I'm free. Why?" "I'm hanging out at the Saloon with Shane tonight. Wanna come hang out with us?" He lifts his large hand to rub the back of his neck awkwardly. When was the last time someone around here invited him to actually hang out with them? "I.. yeah. I just have to.. close up and change out of my work stuff, but.. that sounds lovely." She grins and pats his arm. "Awesome! Drinks are on me tonight." "I-I can't let you-" "Shhh, doc. Let me do you a favor." He was about to deny it again, but Ellie gives him what he denotes as the pouty lip. He pinches the bridge of his nose with a soft groan. "Okay, fine. Stop pouting, you win." "I always do, doc. I'll see you in a few, handsome!" His eyes shoot open wide as she practically skips out of the door. "O..okay?" Maru, who was straightening the desk, hears the last bit of that and grabs Ellie's arm as she walks by her. "Did.. did you just ask Doctor Harvey on a date?" "Huh?" Ellie raises an eyebrow. "Answer the question, Ells!" "Geez, no, I didn't. I just asked him to hang out with me and Shane." Maru seems to frown at that. "But.. you flirted?" "Look," Ellie sighs, "calling a man handsome, or a woman beautiful, does not instantly mean I would get in their pants." "Sorry. I know that, but.. I was just curious." With that, Ellie walks out of the clinic. She hadn't realized just how much time had passed, but it seems about time for his clinic to close anyways. "Hey," Ellie turns at the sound of Jamie's voice, "how is Marlon doing?" "He'll be fine. Harvey did amazing taking care of him." Ellie smiles when she notices Abigail standing right next to Jamie, staring intently at the amethyst in her hand. "How are you, Abigail?" Abigail's bright blue eyes turn up to Ellie's hazel ones happily. "I'm great! We were just going to play video games at my place." "Really? Sounds fun. Jamie, I'll be at the saloon if you need me for anything." "Drinking alone, I assume?" "No, I'm hanging out with Shane and Harvey." That makes Abigail and Jamie look at each other with wide eyes. "Waaaait," Jamie holds a hand up, "Harvey.. as in the doctor?" "Why is everyone getting their undies in a twist over this? Yes, I invited Harvey to chill with me and Shane." Abigail smirks slightly, nudging Jamie's arm. "I changed my mind. The arcade machines in the saloon are calling my name." "I agree, Abigail. Race you there!" The two girls take off towards the Saloon, leaving Ellie rubbing her temples. Is Harvey the new hot topic of the town or something? First she can't seem to get everyone off of her back about Shane, but now because she invited Harvey for a drink, everyone is waiting for them to date or something? With a soft sigh, she starts to walk to the Saloon. "Hey, what a coincidence." "Shane!" She turns to meet her dear friend's dark brown eyes. He smiles and gladly accepts a tight hug from her. "Sorry I've been so busy, Shane." "No, don't sweat it. I'm glad we could make time today to just sit together for a little while." She smiles when he holds open the door for her, like he has since they actually started forming a bond. "Awwe, what a gentleman." To make a point, he lets out a loud belch. Ellie notices that Demetrius sends him a disgusted look. "Hardly. I just enjoy your company." Once they take their usual seat at the bar, Shane groans softly. "You okay, Shaney-poo?" "Don't call me that. I'm just tired from work today. Gus, can I get a beer?" Gus smiles and turns to pour Shane's drink. "Shane.." "Yes?" "Take it easy? For me?" Last season Shane would have told everyone to mind their business over how much he drank. He does make his own money, after all. However, he can't stand seeing the worry in Ellie's eyes when he's drunk off his ass. "And a water, please Gus." "No problem, Shane. What can I get for you, Ellie?" She smiles at the super kind bartender. "Just two glasses of red wine." "Two? And you're worried about me?" Ellie playfully shoves Shane. "One of them is for Doctor Harvey. I invited him out tonight, so I hope you don't mind." Shane almost chokes on his beer in shock. "Woooah, Harvey? He agreed to go out for a drink?" Ellie tilts her head in confusion while Gus places the drinks in front of her. "Christ, Shane, don't you start this with me." "It isn't like that, I promise. Still, how the hell did you convince the man to take a break?" "He.. didn't really need convincing to come here. I just had to convince him to let me pay for the drink." "He must like you more than he does the other people around here, then. Work is always first on his mind, then he worries about literally everything else." That makes Ellie frown. It can't be easy being the only doctor in Pelican Town, but Harvey owes it to himself to put time away from work. It seems to click between her and Shane that now it's a goal of hers to make sure Harvey spends time with himself. Shane smirks before speaking. "You have some wicked idea going on in your mind, Ellie." "Not wicked. It's like how I became friends with you." "Then it goes beyond wicked, you damn witch." Ellie feels someone move beside her and practically leaps into Shane's lap. Harvey's eyes go wide from his own shock. "E-Ellie? Are you alright?" "Shit, doc, you snuck up on me." His cheeks dust pink from his own embarrassment. "I-I see that. You don't have to call me doc, Ellie. Everyone just calls me Harvey." She opens her mouth to apologize to him, but Shane interrupts her. "Yo, I'm not in the mood for a lap dance right now. Let me get a few drinks in my system before we do anything like that." Ellie rolls her eyes before she actually scoots a bit farther in his lap. Shane knows this game all too well, and he lets out a slightly amused grunt. "Shane, I'm the closest to getting any you'll ever get. Enjoy it while you can." Shane finally breaks into a fit of laughter and shoves Ellie back to her chair. "You're such a damn mess, Ellie." "Hmm.. I've been told that a number of times." She glances at Harvey, whose face is now burning crimson, and his hand mostly covering it. "A-are you sure I won't be interrupting anything?" "Harvey," Ellie giggles and places a soft hand on his shoulder, "we just play like that. I'm sorry, I didn't even think of it making you uncomfortable." "Harvey, if the two of you become good friends, she'll pull these type of jokes with you. Prepare yourself." Ellie finally smacks Shane's arm, making him wince. "You bitch." "I won't make Harvey uncomfortable. I might give the poor thing a heart attack." "Yeah," Harvey agrees with a laugh, "I'm too old for those jokes." Shane stands with a groan. "I have to piss. I'll be back." When he leaves, Ellie rolls her eyes. "I genuinely am sorry. I hope you aren't uncomfortable." "Don't worry about me, Ellie. I get it that every friendship is different. However, I see why everyone expects you two to date." "Yeah, that isn't happening. Believe it or not, I do see him like a really lame older brother. Hey, I did buy that glass of wine for you." Harvey smiles and takes it slowly. "Thank you, Ellie." She smiles, suddenly recalling the statement he made just a minute ago. "Harvey, there's no way you're much older than me." "Well," he sips at his wine slowly, "that depends on how old you are." "Twenty-three." He seems to chuckle when she says the number. "What?" "How old do you think I am, Ellie." "Oh come on, I'm going to get it way wrong and offend you." Harvey holds up a hand. "I promise to take absolutely no offense." Ellie bites her lip, suddenly analyzing Harvey's feature's closer than she has before. He has slight dark circles under his eyes, which tells her that he works late nights regularly. Besides his mustache, which seems to be his signature feature, Harvey has a small shadow along his jawline. Despite how tired he must be from working in the clinic all day, his green eyes are still bright and alert behind his glasses. His brown hair is messy.. in a neat way? It doesn't have any product in it, but it isn't in a rats nest on the top of his head. "Well?" "Okay.. twenty... six?" His eyes widen slightly, and she smirks. "Nailed it, right?" "Well, I'll give you this.. you're very generous." Her smile falters as he laughs. "I'm thirty, actually." "No way. Say sike right now, Harvey." He takes a long drink from his wine. "No, I can't. I am indeed thirty. Do you not believe me?" Ellie leans on her hand to smile at him. "I guess I just was expecting younger, but thirty isn't old, Harvey." "Can you convince my back of that?" Ellie giggles sweetly at his poor attempt at a joke. Little does she know.. he meant it. "Seriously, Harvey, you look younger than thirty." "Oh," he blushes, "come on. You're trying to make me blush now." "I'm being honest." "Are you two hitting it off?" Ellie narrows her eyes and sends a glare at Jamie, who is now sitting in Shane's seat. "You know Shane is sitting there, Jamie." "He can have it back. I just had to check and make sure Doctor Harvey is minding his manners with my dear sister." Harvey chuckles lightly at that. "Always, Jamie. No need to worry about me." "Besides, I'm more likely to misbehave, and only when Shane is around." Jamie rolls her eyes at that. "Are you ready to head home?" "Not quite. I can walk back later." "By yourself?" Jamie raises an eyebrow as Ellie facepalms. "I am more than capable of-" "I can walk her back, Jamie." Jamie smirks at Harvey, who gives her a realy confused look for it. "Perfect! Just know that if she gets hurt, it's your head under the axe!" Jamie skips out of the Saloon after that comment, leaving Harvey in slight shock. "Uh.. all three of you certainly have.. different personalities." Ellie snorts, smiling as Shane comes back to reclaim his seat. "We do, but that part of us is the same. You mess with one.. you get three." Shane nods in agreement before tkaing a long drink of the ice water in front of him. "Just.. try not to be around when all three of them are on their period at the same time. I made that mistake and still have a scar." "Oh, shut up. You probably have a scar from randomly picking up one of our chickens, you ass." Harvey smiles as the two friends playfully pester each other. They really do look like they would be a nice couple. From what Harvey has seen in his few years living in Pelican Town, Shane is hard to get along with for most people. Ellie has certainly taking any negative things she may have heard and pushed them aside to get him to laugh so wholeheartedly. As far as he can tell, Ellie has a gift for bringing out something good in the people she meets. Shane looks at the watch on his wrist with a sigh. "Sorry to dip out like this, but I got scheduled ass early tomorrow and Jas has a movie she wants me to watch with her." "Shane, you're a grown ass man. Don't explain yourself." He smiles softly as she leans over to give him a tight hug. However, it fades into a grumble when she gives him a soft kiss on his cheek. "Be careful getting home. Love you." He rolls his eyes as he stands, still not quite used to someone being open with their affections towards him. "Mhm. You too, Ellie. See ya Harvey." "Goodnight, Shane." Once he leaves, Harvey can't help but smile at Ellie, who finally starts drinking her own drink. "You're a good friend to him, Ellie." This time, it's her who blushes from Harvey's comment. "Ah, I try to be. He needs someone to convince him he isn't a waste of oxygen." "I can't think of anyone better to do it." Ellie actually ends up hiding her face from him now. She was going to manage a few words, but her phone ringing interrupts her. "Yes, Maia?" "Hey, are you wanting me to take you back to the farm? Jamie mentioned you were on a date with-" "Of course she used the word date. I'm just hanging out with Harvey now, but Shane was here." Maia giggles softly. "Of course, Ellie. My question still stands." Ellie glances at Harvey, who tilts his head curiously to the side. "Umm.. no, actually. Harvey mentioned he would walk back with me, and I can't refuse such a kind offer." Maia stays quiet for a second, obviously thinking. "No, it would be rude. Alright, I'll be late getting home tonight." "Oh?" "Sam asked me to meet him outside of his house at eight tonight." Ellie can't help but snort. "Ooooh, Maia, that's scandalous." "S-Scandalous?! You're going to be walking alone with Harvey, who you just now started hanging out with, and I'M the scandalous one?" Ellie smirks, nudging Harvey with her elbow. He chuckles softly from the playful action, immediately returning it. "Uh huh, since I have a doctor beside me, I find it very important that I remind you that condoms are a thing and that you should heavily question everything if Sam claims to have a latex allergy." Harvey snorts. "He has never had a reaction to my gloves." "Harvey wanted me to tell you that-" "I fucking heard him. I hate you sometimes." Ellie smirks. "Love you more, Maia. I'll see you at home, and I want all of the details." When she pockets her phone, Harvey raises an eyebrow. "Did she say goodbye?" "Oh," Ellie laughs, "She hung up after I said that I love her." The two of them quickly finish their drinks, and Ellie places some money on the counter for Gus, with a tip for him and Emily. "I think I should head home." "Allow me to walk you back." It wasn't a question so much as a 'your sister will kill me if I don't' statement. Once they get outside, Ellie takes her jean jacket from her waist and slide it on. "Harvey, I promise Jamie won't actually harm you if you don't want to walk me back." Harvey shakes his head. "I want to, Ellie. Do you not want me to?" "I mean, I enjoy your company, so I really don't mind. I just.. get it that you work hard." He chuckles lightly before turning his head up slightly to gaze at the stars. "During the day, yes, but it isn't the day right now." "Harvey, you can not convince me that your work doesn't bleed past operation hours... pun intended." He rolls his eyes before grinning at her. "That pun was awful." "Don't avoid the conversation, mister." "Okay," he sighs softly in defeat, "I work a lot. Still, I knew what I was getting into when I started going to med school." Ellie frowns, which makes his eyes widen. "No matter what occupation you choose, you still have to take time for yourself and friends. Hell, family too, if you want." "Family is on the backburner for you?" "Well," Ellie gently bites the inside of her cheek, "no, my sisters come before anything. However, my parents fall on the backburner. I don't know much about how the other two view them, but I just.. don't get along with them." She sends Harvey a bright smile, and he can't help but let it influence his own. "Hey, this conversation isn't about me, you know. It's about me trying to figure out how I can convince you to take more time for yourself." He groans softly. "Helping people is my job, Ellie. It gives me joy." "Well, that's great! Help me help you get out of the office more often, then." "I feel like you're turning that statement around to bite me in the rear." She rolls her eyes. "Of course I am, Harvey. What if I consistently come bother you during work to do something like.. I don't know, get lunch together. Something, anything." He can't help but blush at the offer. Why is she so concerned over him? "I mean.. I certainly wouldn't mind the company. It can get a little lonely." "Alright! It's progress, I guess." She, thankfully, drops the subject after that. When she stops, Harvey notices the gates to the farm she shares with her sisters. "This is my stop, I assume?" "Yeah. Hey, thanks, Harvey." "For?" She smiles sweetly before placing a gentle hand on his arm. "You really didn't need to walk me back, but I'm happy you did." "Y-you are?" "Yeah," she nods, "you're a really sweet person. I'm glad we're becoming friends." His cheeks slightly warm, and he really hopes she can't see it in the night. "I-I am, too. Well, I guess I should head home for the night." He holds his hand out, which makes her laugh. She gives him a confused look as he slowly lowers his hand. "Are you completely sure you're thirty and not sixteen? Because I've never met a thirty year old who gets this flustered so easily." "I-I wouldn't lie about something as stupid as-" He cuts off when Ellie walks closer and wraps her arms around his torso. She's quite a bit shorter than him, so her head rests perfectly on his collarbone. "I'm very physical when I care about someone, so I apologize." "N-no," he finally wraps his arms around her, "I.. I don't mind it." The two of them stand there for a minute or two, slightly swaying their bodies as they squeeze each other. Harvey is the first to back off, which makes the wind seem colder than it was earlier. "So, am I expecting you at the clinic tomorrow?" "Yeah, I'm thinking I'll make lunch for the two of us." He pats her head softly, making her groan. "You're too kind. I guess I'll see you tomorrow, Ellie." "Uh huh, goodnight Harvey." He turns his back to her, walking away with a single hand in his pants pocket. He holds the other one up in the air in a sort of farewell. "Sweet dreams, beautiful." He hopes to Yoba and everything holy in the world that Ellie didn't catch on to the slight tremble in his voice when he said those words. Even though she can't see his deep crimson cheeks, he sort of covers his face with his hand he had in the air. 'Harvey, you freaking idiot. You aren't supposed to embarrass yourself like that. How are you going to look her in the eyes tomorrow?' Ellie feels her own cheeks flush from the sudden word. She shakes her head before hurriedly walking through the gates to her shared farm. 'Ellie, you said it yourself, just because someone calls someone else handsome or beautiful doesn't mean they're interested.' Still, she can't help but smile as she recalls the sound of his voice saying those words to her. Maybe she can get her hopes up a little bit.. just this one time.

[rae-g]

Dire Need of a Change: Spring 6 - Curiouser and Curiouser

I’m never going to get used to waking up this early, am I? You spent the first part of the morning as you normally do; rinsing off in the shower, finding something easy to eat, getting dressed. As you begin lacing up your boots, you hear a knock at your door. You quickly glance over to your door, wondering who would dare to have the audacity to knock on your door at any point during the day, much less at 6am. You wait a few moments, hoping it was just your imagination, but another round of -knock- -knock- -knock- ruined that fantasy.

Standing up, you make your way to the door and open it to find a short, portly woman standing before you. She wore a large cinnamon-colored braid in her hair, and an outfit of red and green.

“Uh… Hi?” You look at the woman, confused.

“Hello!” She smiled, and her eyes bright.

MEW

You looked down, spotting a small orange cat in her arms. You looked back up at the woman and raised an eyebrow.

“You’re the new farmer, right? I’m Marnie. I live at the ranch just south of your farm.”

“Uh, yeah. Hi, nice to meet you.” You continue to stand in the doorway, each moment becoming more and more bizarre.

Marine nervously chuckled, a soft and warm laugh coming from someone. “Well, I was out foraging in the clearing next to my ranch, and I found this,” she looked down at the cat, then back up at you, “sitting outside the entrance to your farm! I think it’s a stray… poor thing.”

“Oh.” You look back down at the cat, and carefully put out your hand, allowing it to sniff you. The cat sniffed your fingers for a few moments, then headbutted your hand. You smiled and started scratching it’s head.

“Well, if it isn’t too much to ask… Don’t you think this farm could use a good barn cat? I know we don’t really know each other, but it does seem to like you, and I’d hate for this little friend to be all alone.”

You look down at the little furry friend who has already begun purring. You gave a small smile and nodded. “Well… I don’t currently have a barn… But, it would be nice to have someone to watch TV with.”

Marnie’s face beamed as she carefully set down the cat. “How wonderful! I’m sure it’ll be so happy here.” She smiled softly, “You know about the upcoming Egg Festival, right?”

You kneeled and continued petting your small new friend. You looked up at Marine, “I don’t, actually.”

Marine grinned. “Well, it’s something we do every spring. I’m not sure if you currently have any chickens, but even if you don’t, we’d love for you to come. The whole town joins in and we have so many different dishes that people make. My nephew works hard all year prepping the chickens for the festival, and it’s always so much fun.”

You stand back up and brush your knees off. “Well, I think that could be fun. I’ll have to think about it. I’m not much of a cook, but it’s hard to say no to free food.”

Marnie beamed once more. “Well, I have to get back to the ranch before the shop opens. If you’re ever looking for animal care, please feel free to swing by!”

The two of you shook hands, and Marnie made her way towards the town. You looked down at your new responsibility and smirked. “Well… guess I’ll have to pick up some cat food for you later.”

----------

You spent most of the day continuing the monumental task of de-weeding your farm. There were still boulders, trees, rocks, and branches littered everywhere, but at least you were able to clear out a little more land. You began to think about what Marine had said. Chickens… Hmmm…You hadn’t even thought about having animals on your farm. The only buildings that seemed to stand the test of time at all were the main cabin, and the green house, but even those were in extremely rough shape.

You crossed your arms as you looked at everything. It was all going to be such a project. You shoulders slumped as every glance just added a new project to the list. I need to repair the green house. Clear out more trees and boulders. Get the oven working, and probably expand the house. Plus, if I want any buildings put up...You sighed. It was like a never-ending list.

Letting out an exasperated sigh, you picked up your watering can and filled it up. You made your way over to your plants. The potatoes and beans were growing nicely, but it was the flash of yellow that truly caught your eyes. You bent down and moved some dirt, and gently tugged on the stem of the parsnip. It came up easily. Your eyes lit up as you stared at the little vegetable. A little on the small side, but it was definitely a parsnip. After dunking it in the watering can, you took a small bite.

“Oh! It’s sweet!” You took a few more bites, and before you knew it the entire vegetable was gone. You savored the taste of the fresh vegetable in your mouth. It was as if someone had sprinkled a carrot with sugar. You looked at the rest of the row and saw more flashes of yellow. “I… I have my first harvest.”

You smiled and began pulling up the small vegetables, inspecting each carefully before moving on. At the end, you had about nine. After watering the rest of your crops, you brought the parsnips inside and began rinsing them off. You picked out the best of the batch and looked around for a small basket or box. Grabbing one of the cardboard Joja boxes from your move, you placed them carefully inside and made your way towards Pierre’s.

----------

*ding*

The little shop bell alerted Pierre to your presence. He turned around and looked at you, “Ah! My favorite farmer. How can I help you out today?”

You walked up to the counter and smiled. “Yeah. I. Uh. Have some crops to sell?”

Pierre grinned, “Wonderful! Show me what you have!”

You placed the box on the ground and pulled out five freshly washed Parsnips. “It’s not much…”

“It’s fantastic! I mean, they are a little on the small side, but they look and smell delicious. Let me do some calculations and see what I can offer.”

After taking a few moments to talk shop, the two of you decided to swap your small harvest for some more seeds, but only after Pierre assured that you would be able to get at least a few more parsnip harvests this season. You placed the seeds in the box and smiled. It’s really happening. I grew vegetables and sold them. I’m really a farmer. The two of you eventually said your good-byes, but not before he told you all about the new rucksacks he would have arriving in the next few days.

----------

You spent the rest of the day getting your new seeds neatly sowed in two little rows, and finishing up some smaller tasks, before eventually making your way back into the house. Today would be game 4 of the Gridball season. The Tunnelers weren’t playing, but that didn’t mean you couldn’t enjoy the game. You washed up and changed, then made your way over to the bar.

----------

As you made your way to your seat, you spotted a familiar looking blue jacket. You sat down and flagged over the bartender.

“Hey.”

“Hey back,” you said, giving a small smile.

“Didn’t see you yesterday.” Shane took a swig of his beer, keeping his eyes on the TV screen.

“Didn’t realize you’d miss me.” The waitress came over, and you ordered a hard cider.

Shane coughed slightly, and turned away. After a moment, he turned back to the screen, his body facing you slightly more than it was a moment ago. “I don’t know, missed is a very strong word.” He smirked, and continued sipping on his drink.

You raised your eyebrow and grinned. You turned your attention back to the Gridball game, sipping on your drink. “I sold my first batch of crops today.” You said, continuing to stare at the screen.

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. Not much. Just a few parsnips.”

“Ah.” He took another sip of his drink, also watching the screen. “Joja has me on overtime this week. The other stocker called out sick, so it’s just me.”

“Laaaaaaame.”

“Yeah. But it’s fine. I’m not going to complain about more beer money.”

You raise your drink towards him, “I can drink to that. That is one of the rough parts about being self-employed. No days off. I don’t work my ass off, I don’t get any money.”

The two of you continued to banter back and forth for the rest of the night, only half paying attention to the game. Mostly the conversion centered around work, Joja, and favorite drinks. Eventually the barkeep called for the last round of drinks. The two of you finished off one more round of beers before heading outside of the saloon.

Taking a few steps out of the door way, you stretched and looked up at the sky. Your eyes widened, and you took a shallow breath. Shane walked over to you, a nervous look on his face, “Everything okay?”

You continued to look up into the night sky, “Its.. its just been awhile since I’ve actually seen stars.”

Shane looked up, “Ah. I get it. I remember when I first moved out here. Hard to see the stars with all the light in the city.” You nodded, then looked over at him. You couldn’t help but feel your cheeks warm as you watched him gaze at the stars. Eventually he glanced over at you, then coughed into his hand. “Anyway. I shouldn’t keep you.” He glanced around for a moment, “you’ll… you planning on swinging by the saloon tomorrow night?”

You nodded. “Probably. Once I get done with all my chores.”

Shane nodded. “Well.. Until then, I suppose.” But instead of leaving, he seemed to linger for a few moments.

“I look forward to it.” You smiled.

Shane reached up and rubbed the back of his head, looking away. “Uh. Yeah. See ya.”

You watched as he walked off.

“Hmm.. Curious,” you mused to yourself, before heading back home.

[chain-unchained]

December 5th Pt. 1

Once again, featuring dialogue from the lovely @jojaqualityheadcanons Immersive Characters - Shane mod! <3 Download it for extra chicken husband goodness.

December 5th marked the first snowfall, and the first official day of winter in the Ferngill Republic. Several inches fell overnight, blanketing the entirety of the valley in a pristine white. A rough night meant Shane was up at 4, and he just stood out on the porch for a time, watching the snow fall in thick, fat flakes. Listened to the sound of them hitting the ground. It was… nice. Peaceful.

“We got, what, a foot?” He said to Marnie as they waited for the coffee to be ready. “Foot and a half?”

“Sure seems like it.” His aunt set two coffee mugs on the counter and got out the creamer. “You remembered to turn the heater on in the barn, right?”

“Yeah.” He paused halfway to picking up the pot. “… I’m pretty sure I did.”

“… Maybe go and double check to be sure.”

“Yeah, I’m on it.”

The barn was nice and toasty warm when he stepped into it, and he breathed a sigh of relief. “Sorry girls,” he knelt down to pick Charlie up and give her a cuddle, “can’t let you out today. You’d get lost in the snow.”

He patted the flank of Marnie’s cow with a faint smile. “… Shit, I hope Ashe didn’t forget the heaters…”

Jas poked her head into the barn. “Ms. Penny says that talking to yourself is a sign of loneliness,” she announced, and her uncle jumped a full inch off of the hay-strewn floor. “Why not go and ask him?”

“Kiddo, we need to have a serious talk about sneaking up on me.” He set Charlie down and walked over to his niece, planting a hand on her shoulder, “How about we don’t do that anymore? I’m getting old, I might end up having a heart attack.”

“You’re not that old, Uncle Shane.”

“I’m 35. That’s practically ancient.”

“If 35 is ancient, what does that make me?” Marnie called from the kitchen.

Shane started to sweat. “Young at heart?”

“Uh huh. That makes me feel so much better. You’d better come and get your coffee before it gets cold.”

“Right—” Shane gave his goddaughter a very serious look. “Jas, Aunt Marnie might kill me in my sleep tonight. If I die, I want you to look after the blue chickens in my place.”

The little girl’s pom-tails bobbed up and down with her head. “… You could stay over with Ashe tonight?” She whispered. “Aunt Marnie can’t get you there.”

“Honestly? I’m tempted.” His back cracked and popped as he stood. “Let me get my coffee and I’ll walk you to meet Ms. Penny.”

 ###

 There was something incredibly satisfying about the sound of snow crunching beneath his boots as they carried him up the road towards Ashe’s farm. The downside was that the trek there was made all the more arduous by its height; by the time he made it to the first line of fencing, he was thoroughly winded. He needed to suck it up and drag himself up to the sauna to use the gym again…

He caught sight of Ashe just as the farmer stepped out of the chicken coop, covered in feathers. “The girls not too happy about being cooped up?”

“Oh--!” The sight of Shane made Ashe’s face light up, and he hurriedly trudged through the snow to meet him. “C-cold, need warm please.”

“Pfft--” Shane had to stifle a laugh as he folded Ashe into a hug. “Good morning to you too, bugaboo. I was gonna ask if you were staying warm, but I think I already got my answer.”

“I-I was warm when I first came out here.” Ashe’s teeth were audibly chattering as Shane blew on his frozen fingers to warm them. “H-How about you?”

“Bud, with how much insulation I’m carrying, I don’t get cold. If anything, I get too warm.”

“B-But you’ve lost a lot of it?”

The farmer lightly poked at Shane’s shrinking stomach to prove his point.

“Oh, uh—shit, you noticed huh?”

“O-Of course I have! How could I not?” He buried his face in Shane’s chest. “You look good.”

Shane’s face went hot. “Thanks, bud. I disagree, but thanks all the same.”

“Then I’m just going to have to keep saying it until you agree.”

“We’ll see about that.” After a minute, Ashe went to pull away. “Hang on, don’t go running off just yet. Now that you don’t have any crops to worry about, could you slow down a bit?”

“But—but lucky day! The mines, Shane!”

“I don’t care about fortunes or the mines, I care about you.” Shane cupped Ashe’s face with both hands. “Yoba, you kept working yourself to the bone last season. I get that taking care of an entire farm by yourself is a lot of work, but you need to take care of yourself too. All right?”

Ashe puffed his cheeks out into a pout. “Fine… I’ll try. No promises.”

“Why are you so much like me?” Shane sighed. “What’s in the mines that’s so damn important, anyway?”

“Oh, I can show you!”

He took hold of Shane’s hands and pulled him along, towards the road into town.

[thewalkingdead-fan101]

In This Hell Daryl Dixon x Reader part 8/??

Hey guys!  I’m so excited to post part 8!  I’m sorry about such a large gap in between parts, I'm currently trying to figure out a schedule for posting parts. I hope you're all safe and well. Thank you for being patient and so lovely!

Warnings- Slow burn, Light smut?, General Walking Dead stuff, Blood, Gore, Swearing, Shane being sus.

The drive home seemed shorter than the drive there, passing the familiar mailboxes and other run down buildings.

The minute we arrived back, Shane left to speak with Rick, furthering their search for Sophia.

I started grabbing the Medical supplies that we had found scattered throughout the houses and took them into the farm house.

I knocked on the wooden doorframe, waiting for someone to answer, Patricia’s head popping around the corner.

“Good morning (Y/n).” “Morning, I just thought that since we’re all low on supplies that I would bring you some stuff. Shane and I went out this morning and came across all of this medical stuff, even found a full first aid kit.” I chuckled as she opened the door, stepping aside for me.

“Oh thank you, just sit it all on the dining table.” She smiled, grabbing one of the bags from me, leading the way through the house into the dining room.

“Did you guys find much?” “We found some things, a bunch of medical stuff as you can see, some food, which is in that green bad, and some gardening stuff that ill take out to the barn now.” I smiled.

“No!” She paused, my head turning to look at her. She cleared her throat before continuing. 

“Don’t take them to the barn.”

I opened my mouth to speak, but not before she cut me off again.

“It’s too far from the house, not to mention the barn needs some repairs. I’d feel absolutely horrible if I let you go up there and get hurt. We have a little garden shed out back I can put them in.” She stated, walking with me to the car, grabbing the equipment out, briefly making eye contact and sharing a soft smile. 

“Are you sure? I honestly don’t mind.”

“I’m sure, now it’s best if you go sit down for a bit.”

“Pat-“

“Go on, get away.” She swatted softly.

 I shook my head as I backed away.

“It’s hardly fair that you guys do everything around here.” I try to argue.

“If you doing nothing around here protects gods little miracle, I do not mind. Now, go sit down and relax for a couple of hours.” She gave me a warning glare that had reminded me of my 5th grade teacher Ms. Gabel.

“Yes Ma’am.” I nodded, turning away from her and made my way towards the RV.

As the majority of the group were discussing the upcoming gun practice at the rear of the RV, I noticed Carl and Shane talking.

Shane looked Carl up and down, as if questioning him, and nodded his head.

I noticed the small movement and my breath stopped.

He had slightly raised his shirt, Shane’s eyes doubling in size. 

And that’s when it hit me.

This is a new world we live in.

A world in which to survive we have to fight.

Fight for yourself, your friends, your family, your people.

Shane barely even blinked. 

I picked up speed, my legs carrying me as fast as they could to the RV.

“Give me that now.” Shane firmly stated.

Once the gun was handed to Shane, he stormed off to the others, no doubt taking it to Rick.

Carl stood, staring at the ground.

“Hey, Carl..” I spoke softly, placing my hand on his shoulder.

“Let’s sit down, you can talk to me.” 

He nodded his head as he walked with me to where the camping chairs were set out.

I took the seat next to him, slightly turning to face him. “What was that about?” “What?” “Carl.. why did you have a gun.” “I just wanted to help..” “I understand, but guns are dangerous.. You shouldn’t have had it.” “I know.” “You do know that your parents are going to flip?.”

He nodded his head and resumed staring at the dirt beneath his feet.

I looked up to see Shane, Dale and Rick staring at Carl, making their way to the boy.

“(Y/n), can you get Lori for me? We need to speak to Carl.” Rick asked, nodding in my direction.

“Yeah.. of course.” I nodded, turning and starting the search for Lori.

The first place I had checked, the fire pit where she and Glenn were earlier showed no results.

I made my way to where the chicken coop was, to be met with the clucking of the hens, but again no Lori.

I checked her tent, to see her sitting on the mattress, head in her hands.

“Hey.” I spoke, moving the door to the side.

“Oh, Hey Honey.” She smiled. “Are you okay?” “Yeah, Im fine, just a little tired. Whats up?” 

“It’s Carl.”

She stood quickly, worry present in her eyes.

“What? What’s wrong? Where is my boy?”

“He is okay, he isn’t hurt.. Rick asked me to come get you..” “What? Rick asked you to get me? Whats going on?” “Carl had a gun.”

Her eyes widened, her left hand going to her mouth.

“Oh God… im going to be sick.” She shook her head

She paused briefly. 

“Where are they?” 

“”They’re at the RV.” 

“Let’s go.” She stated, grabbing my wrist and dragging me behind her.

She cleared the distance between the tents and the RV in no time.

Letting my wrist go when she got within earshot of everyone, walking straight over to Carl, taking the gun from Shane and showing it to Carl.

“Where did you get this?” She asked sternly as she kneeled in front of the boy.

She waited for an answer.

“Carl Grimes. You answer me.” 

She stood up, turning to us.

“How the hell did this happen?” She asked, tucking the gun into the back of her jeans.

“Well, It's my fault.” Dale began, slightly pausing as Lori’s attention snapped to the older man. 

“I let him into the RV. He said he wanted a walkie, that you sent him for one.” Dale continued.

“So on top of everything else, he lied.” She began. 

“What was he thinking?”

“He wants to learn how to shoot. He asked me to teach him.” Shane started, earning an ice filled glare from Lori.

“Now It's none of my business, but I'm happy to do it. It's your call.” He nodded, sensing the tension.

“I'm not comfortable with it.” Lori looked towards Rick, who tried to avert his gaze.

“Oh, don't make me out to be the unreasonable one here. Rick?”

“I know. I have my concerns too, but-“

“There's no but. He was just shot. He's just back on his feet and he wants a gun?”

“Better than him being afraid of 'em. There are guns in camp for a reason. He should learn to handle them safely.” Rick responded to his wife’s worries.

“I don't want my kid walking around with a gun.” She shook her head.

“But how can you defend that? You can't let him go around without protection.” 

“He is as safe as he'll ever be right now.” She started.

“Look, everything you're saying makes perfect sense. It feels wrong. I mean I didn't feel good about him following you out into the woods. And I wish I'd said something. I should've gone with my gut.” She argued.

“He's growing up, thank god. We've got to start treating him more like an adult.” Rick tried to reason. 

“Then he needs to act like one. He's not mature enough to handle a gun.”

“I'm not gonna play with it, mom. It's not a toy. I'm sorry I disappointed you, but I want to look for Sophia and I want to defend our camp. I can't do that without a gun.” Carl stood and walked toward us.

“Shane's the best instructor I know. I've seen him teach kids younger than Carl.” 

“He will be with Shane. He loves that boy and wouldn’t let him get hurt.” 

Lori looked at me and I could tell that even though the thought of Carl having this gun terrifies her, but him not having one in this world terrifies her even more.

She waited a few moments and walked to Carl, resting her hand under his chin, making him look up at her.

“You will take this seriously and you will behave responsibly. And if I hear from anyone in this camp that you're not living up to our expectations-“

“He won't let you down.” Rick stated clearly behind her.

Carl nodded at Rick and answered with a “yeah.”

The sound of the old blue truck pulled up next to us, Beth, Patricia and Jimmy all inside.

“Now if you're gonna do this, you listen to Shane.”

“Okay, dad.” 

“All right? You two be careful.” Rick pointed at Shane and Carl.

“You coming?” Shane asked Glenn.

Glenn shook his head.

“I gotta help Dale clean the spark plugs on the RV. He said he's gonna teach me mechanics. I should probably go look for him.”

“You found me.” Dale called out from two metres behind him, startling Glenn. 

Shane nodded and got in the car, starting it.

“He's a good learner.” Dale called out.

I moved towards the car, getting in with Shane, watching as Lori, Rick, Carol, Carl and Andrea piled into the Cherokee. 

T-dog jumping in wi†h Shane and I, as we made our way to a neighbouring farm’s paddock, distancing the gunshots from the Greene farm.

The sound of breaking glass, and the metallic ricochet of bullets hitting the tins and bottles that were sitting in a perfect row on the boundary fence line.

The loud echoes of the gunshots leaving my ears ringing, the slight scent of gunpowder present in the air.

Rick and Shane pacing behind us all, ensuring that we were all practicing gun safety.

T-dog, partnered with Jimmy, who needs as much help as he can get.

Jimmy was holding his gun as if he had just come from a bad adaption of a 90’s gangsta movie.

“Hey, come on, man. Don't give me that gangsta shit.” T-dog stated.

Jimmy, stood up, straightening his posture, moving his free hand to help support the gun, shooting and finally hitting his target.

His face lighting up as if he had just won an award, a participation award, but an award none the less.

 Shane gave him a pat on the back as he passed him.

“Did you see that? I hit it!” He exclaimed turning to T.

I watched as my brother zoned in on Andrea, stopping next to her and looking to where she was shooting, through his binoculars.

Helping her change her posture before letting her shoot again, which she hit the target perfectly.

Shane and Rick shared a laugh, and some small talk before continuing the pacing.

Lori was planted a metre behind Carl, watching him shoot, hitting the tin off the fence.

“Got it.” Carl smiled widely.

“That's a great shot!” Rick smiled back at him.

I look over to where Beth was aiming at her target, slightly missing it.

“Hey.” “Oh hey.” “Would you like some help?” “Um, I think im not doing it right.” “Oh, no, it’s fine, here.”

I moved to where she was and helped position her arms.

“Dont be scared, of the gun. You’re in control.” I paused.

“Just breathe, take your time. There’s nothing to be nervous about.”

She visibly relaxed and pulled the trigger, the glass bottle exploding.

I looked over to see her eyes closed.

“Beth. You did it. You hit the bottle.” “What? I did?” She asked opening her eyes and looking to where the bottle once sat.

“I hit it! I actually hit it!” She beamed.

“Thank you!” She jumped on me, hugging me tightly.

“You’re welcome.” I laughed.

“What about you (Y/n)? You a good shot?” Rick asked.

“I was once.” I nodded.

“She had the best teacher.” Shane smiled.

“Yeah. Grandma.” I jeered.

“Oh really? Mind showing us?” Lori laughed. “No-“ “She wasn’t the strongest shooter, she probably forgot.” Shane shook his head laughing.

I grabbed the gun from Shane’s holster and shot three targets in a row, the sound of shattering glass echoing beyond the gun.

“Where’d that come from?” Shane asked as I handed him the gun back. “I told you. Grandma.” I smiled as Lori held in a small chuckle.

“Yeah, Yeah. Let’s go then.” Shane shook his head.

“Sure showed him.” Lori chuckled.

“Shane needs to be put in his place. I never had a strong shooting arm when I was a kid. Shane never tried to teach me after he realised. Grandma took it upon herself to teach me. Always said that a woman should always know how to defend herself.” “Well, your grandma was a smart woman.” Rick smiled, leading his wife and son to the car. 

Everyone following in pursuit, getting into the same vehicles that had transported them from the Greene farm.

I got in the car, and looked at Shane.

“Is there any other things that Grandma showed you?”

“The secret recipe of her butternut squash pie.”

“Is that all?” He laughed.

“Yeah.. yeah I think thats pretty much it.”

“That pie sounds good right about now.” T-dog chuckled.

“Maybe Hershel might let me commandeer the kitchen.”

Shane had pulled the car over.

T-dog, jumping straight out in search for Dale and Glenn.

“Get out.” “What?” “Get out. Andrea and I are going for some more target practice.” “Oh is that what we’re calling it now? Target practice?” “Shut it. Now get out.”

“Alright. But please please please make sure that you wrap it before you tap it.” “(Y/n)-“

“No glove, no love.” “Seriously-“

“Plug your funnel then enter the tunnel.” “What does that one even mean?”

“If im being honest I don’t even know. But It’s on the same line as the others.”

“Seriously get out now.”

“Alright, alright. Calm down.” I raised my hands and opened the door, sliding out and closing it, putting my head through the open window. “Shane.” “What?”

“Love is cleaner with a packaged Weiner.” I laughed.

“Goodbye.” He muttered through his teeth.

I took a step back from the car, watching as he moved to where Andrea was waiting, letting her hop in and then taking off down the dirt road towards the gate again.

I laughed to myself as I made my way towards the RV and the others.

“Whats so funny?” Carol asked smiling.

“Nothing, just thought of a joke. Do you need a hand?” I chuckled.

“Sure, sit down and I’ll show you how.” She smiled.

I knelt next to her, watching as she continued patching holes in clothes for us.

Her work perfect.

“How did you get it to look so good?” “Years of practice. Ed used to come home after going to the bar in a mess, clothes torn and bloody from fighting earlier in the night.”

She paused, taking a breath.

“He used to say that it was my job to fix the mess and clean it.”

“Carol-“ “Oh no honey, im fine.” She smiled once more.

I nodded.

Carol and I sat for an hour and a half, her teaching me different stitches and when the best use for each one.

“Alright guys, foods ready.” Dale called out.

I stood up, and walked over to Dale, who had two plates set aside, handing them to me.

“I figured that you’d be hungry, Daryl would be too.” “Thank you Dale.” “Go on, go eat. Make sure He eats too or we will all be insufferable.”

I nodded my head and chuckled, turning around and heading towards the farm house.

“Hey (Y/n).” Maggie smiled as she walked down the front steps.

“Hey.” “Glenn and I are going for a supply run, im going to keep an eye out for any pre-natal vitamins for you. Is there anything you’re after?” “Oh thank you, not that I can think of.” “Okay, well, Daryls upstairs, I think he might be asleep, but head on up.” She smiled.

“Thank you.” I smiled as she continued past me.

I made my way up and into the Greene family home, and up those familiar steps that lead me to Daryls room.

I softly pushed the door open and walked in, smiling as I see Daryl sit himself up.

“Where have ya’ been all day?” He asked

“I, have been everywhere today it seems, Shane and I went on a supply run this morning.”

“Ya’ did what?”

“Daryl-“ “I don’t want ya’ out there. Why would he take ya’ out?” “He didn’t take me, I took him. Technically. But it was smooth, no near death experiences to report.” I smiled softly.

“Dale cooked whatever, this is for us. It smells good though.” I chuckled handing him a plate.

He took the plate and picked up the food, biting away at it.

“Quit ya’ starin’.” He spoke through a mouthful.

“Or what?” I challenged, taking a bite from the food.

He shook his head as a light pink blush rose on his cheeks.

“Are you blushing?” I grinned, watching as he finished eating.

He grabbed his plate and moved it to the side, grabbing mine from my hand and placing it on his own.

“Hey! I wasn’t finished- “ 

“C’mere.” He muttered, reaching over, pulling me onto his lap.

“Daryl.. what are you trying to do?” “I’m tryin’ to finish what ya’ started.” “Oh, what I started?” I grinned, my hands resting on his shoulders.

“Mhmm” he nodded.

“If I remember correctly, it was you, that initiated this.” “Was it?” He smirked.

I nodded my head.

“Guess im gonna finish it too.” He stated, bringing his hand to the back of my neck, pulling me in for a kiss.

I smiled into the kiss, both of my hands made their way to the sides of his face, cupping his stubbled cheeks.

His hands moving down to my thighs, picking me up and laying me back.

I pulled away from his lips and smiled up at him.

“What?” He muttered.

“Nothing.” I shook my head softly, bringing his face back down to mine.

Daryl’s hands roamed freely over my body, sending shivers coursing down my spine.

I shivered against Daryl, earning a low chuckle from him.

Once Daryl had fallen asleep, I got dressed and took the plates downstairs for cleaning.

I left the farm house, making my way to our little camp.

Washing up the two plates in the tub we had set aside I left the two to air dry.

“I was wondering where you’d run off to.” Lori spoke up as she exited her tent.

“I just gave Daryl his lunch.” I smiled, getting off the ground.

“Thats not all you gave him.” I could hear the smirk in her voice without even turning to look at her.

I smiled and turned to face her.

“I don’t know what it is you’re implying Lori.” 

“Sure you don’t.” She grinned.

“How else would your shirt be inside out.” 

I looked down and laughed, quickly stripping my shirt off and flipping it the right way in.

“Lucky it was only me.” She laughed, patting my back.

“Ill give you a hand.” I smiled motioning to the laundry that needed folding.

We laughed and joked for about 15 minutes as we folded, the clothes.

The creak of the side paddock gate gained the attention of both Lori and I.

We looked up to see Maggie storming through, Glenn hot on her heels.

“Hey! We got your stuff.” Maggie called out.

“Maggie, hang on, please.” Glenn called after her.

Lori looked around, seeing who else was out.

Then she looked at me.

“Come on in here.” Lori tried softly, gesturing to her tent.

“Why? Nothing to hide. We got your special delivery right here.” Maggie started.

“We got your lotion, got your conditioner, your soap opera digest.” She named each item before throwing it to the floor.

“Maggie..” Lori tried.

“Hey, Maggie, calm down. What-“ I tried to reason.

“Next time you want something, get it your damn self. We're not your errand boys.” 

“Honey, I-“

“And here's your abortion pills.” She threw a small blue box at Lori, storming off, Glenn and Lori sharing a look before he followed Maggie.

“Lori?” I asked softly as she stood there in silence.

“Honey, I can explain.” “You don’t need to explain anything to me.” I stated bringing her in for a hug.

“I just wish you’d have told me.. we could’ve talked about it.” I rubbed her back. 

“I just don’t know what to do. I haven’t told Rick yet. I’m not going to until I know what I’m going to do.” She paused.

“Does that make me a bad wife?” She asked.

“No. It makes you a cautious one, and thats not a bad thing considering what’s happened in the last few months.”

“You have no idea how good it feels now that you know.” She softly laughed.

“I’d say it’d be a whole lot less stressful.” I laughed with her as we sat on the small stools near the table in the tent. 

The little blue box holding the attention of both Lori and myself.

“Whatever you decide to, I’m here to support you.” I whispered placing my hand on her own.

She grabbed my hand and looked over to me, a thankful smile on her face.

A slight movement from the corner of my eye caught my attention, to see Glenn appear at the tents doorway.

“I’ll leave you guys to it.. just come get me if you need anything.” 

“Thank you honey.” She hugged me.

“I’ll see you later Glenn.” I smiled, softly patting him on the back.

“Yeah, see you.” He nodded as I made my way through the tents door.

The familiar green car came into view and pulled up by the RV.

I couldn’t help but chuckle as I noticed the light flush on Andrea’s face as she climbed out of the car.

I made eye contact with Shane, him rolling his eyes as he noticed the small smirk on my face, continuing his walk to Carol and Dale.

“Anything?” Carol was the first to speak.

“Not today.” Shane shook his head.

“I’m so sorry. We'll cover more ground tomorrow.” Andrea sympathised with her at least.

Andrea was covered in more grime and dirt than what she had left in, signalling that they’d run into some sort of trouble whilst out.

“What happened out there?” Dale asked looking her up and down.

“Um, I-“ Andrea was cut off before she could even finish her sentence.

“The place was overrun.” Shane said far too quickly.

“Yeah.” Andrea agreed, sharing a look with my brother.

“Let's go get you clean up.” Carol motioned towards Andrea, pulling me along with them.

“(Y/n), you coming?” “Yeah, i’ll catch up, just got to grab Andrea a towel.” I smiled running into the small share tent, grabbing one of the towels.

I turned to leave, but overheard Dale call out to Shane.

“Shane.” “Shane, I was thinking, you've got that nice new ride of yours, plenty of fuel, more than enough for you to get far from here.” Dale began.

I furrowed my brows, not understanding where Dale is coming from.

“What, you telling me to leave?” Shane asked, annoyance clear in his voice.

“I know you've been planning to. Maybe now is a good time.” Dale responded.

Shane scoffed before laughing.

“Is this about Andrea?” He asked.

“I’m looking out for the group.”

“You think the group would be better off without me, Dale? My sister would be better off? Why don't you tell that to Rick or Lori? Their boy would be dead if I hadn't put my ass on the line.” Shane argued.

“And Otis's. You've been vague about that night, about what happened.”

“Otis died a hero.” Shane stated smugly.

“So you've said.”

“A little boy lived because of what went down that night. I think you ought to show some gratitude.” Shane sneered

“I wasn't there.” Dale responded.

“No, man, you weren’t.” Shane agreed, clearly angry.

“But I was the time that you raised your gun on Rick.” My hand instantly covered my mouth as I had heard what Dale had said.

“Come on. Jesus.”

“You had him in your sights and you held him there. I know what kind of man you are.” Dale continued.

I heard a sigh, the same one that I’ve heard my entire life, the one that Shane used to use when he was caught in something.

Shane stayed silent for a moment before speaking once more.

“You think I'd shoot Rick? That is my best friend. That's the man that I love. I love him like he's my brother. You think that's the kind of man I am?”

“That's right.” Dale answered.

“Well, maybe we ought to just think that through. Say I'm the kind of man who'd gun down his own best friend. What do you think I'd do to some guy that I don't even like when he starts throwing accusations my way? What do you think?” Shane threatened before retreating.

My stomach was in knots, knowing that my brother isn’t the man I knew.

I heard the footsteps retreat and decided to give myself a moment.

I took a deep breath, and shook my head softly.

As I took a step out of the tent, gasping when someone spoke.

“How much of that did you hear?”

Series Masterlist Next Part

[sleepydew-valley]

Quanrantined Shane: Day 3

Day 1

Day 2

So I know I haven’t updated this story in forever, but why not try and continue it right before I started SDV artober and also while doing university. I mean how else am I supposed to feel too much responsibility and stress and make myself more miserable than necessary [insert nervous laughter]. 

Anyway, previous part of the stories can be read in the links above. Hope you enjoy. 

Also, @dragonindigo245 I didn’t see you reply until recently, but you asked to be tagged in case I updated it. So here you go if you’re still interested.

Day 3 

Nico opted for letting Jas join him in his farm routine. At first, he thought he had to change his entire schedule for Jas, but she seemed excited about joining him. At least she wanted to feed all the animals and luckily for him it was still a sunny day, so they could be let outside while Jas played around with them which made it easy to keep an eye on her while he plowed the field for his future crops. He had already sowed some of the first seeds as soon as the ground was ready for it. Winter had been hard and next time he would try to prepare for it better.

Eventually Jas also became interested in what Nico was doing, and seeing as she loved flowers, he gave her the Blue spangle seeds he had left over from last spring. They made a tiny field for Jas to take care of on her own, and Nico promised she was welcome back to water it even after she went back to the ranch.

Once it was noon and time for lunch, Shane called them, and Jas had to tell him about all the fun they had had on the farm. She immediately wanted to show the field of seeds she had just planted and ran out with the phone, so Nico had to run after her and coach her back inside, but it was too late she had already soiled her hands in the dirt.

“Nico said these are my flowers.” She said excitedly. ”Soon I will have grown beautiful flowers, just like Nico does.”

“They’ll probably be the most beautiful flowers in the valley.” Shane said. “You have to remember to listen to Nico when you’re taking care of them, okay?”

Jas nodded enthusiastically and finally Nico was able to bring her inside again. He had to admit he loved Jas and Shane’s interactions together.

He sent Jas out to wash her hands again so she could help with preparing for lunch. She handed the phone over to him and Nico propped it up against the wall of the kitchen counter, so Shane could still see what they were doing.

“It’s only the first day and she already loves it.” Shane said with a smile.

Nick felt embarrassed but somehow happy at the same time. He was only happy to hear Jas was enjoying her time here, but to see Shane’s reaction to it was even better.

"You have to remind her about her homework. She usually finishes it quickly, but when she's excited she tends to forget it." Shane said.

"Got it." Nico said. "Anything else?"

"Do you mind walking her to the library tomorrow?"

"Of course not." Nico said. "I expected that much for when I send her to school tomorrow."

"Great. Normally she can walk alone but seeing as she would be walking from your farm, I just want to make sure everything is okay and she gets a feel of how long it takes from there."

Nico nodded.

"Also, Marnie will be stopping by later."

"What?"

He stopped his movement and that's when Jas entered the kitchen.

"I'm ready now." She said.

Nico strained a smile as he found a small stool for her to stand on for her to reach the counter.

"Hey, sweetie!" Shane said. "Aunt Marnie told me she would stop by later to check on you."

Jas was excited by the news. Much more than Nico. It made sense Marnie would stop by and Jas probably also preferred her Aunt to come. She probably wanted to share her day with her Aunt since it was the first day at Nico’s farm.

Nico wasn't sure why it freaked him out. He was on good terms with Marnie. He also knew Jas meant a lot to both Shane and Marnie and of course they weren't going to let her be taken care by some random villager without at least checking to see if she was doing okay.

"Did she by any chance mention when she would stop by?" Nico said, trying to hide his panic.

Shane merely shrugged his shoulder as an answer, which wasn’t really helpful.

Could he take deep calming breaths without anyone noticing? Did anyone notice he was panicking? He wasn't sure why he was panicking. It felt like a test. It felt like Marnie thought he wasn't capable. Maybe he wasn't good enough to take care of Jas. Maybe they were just waiting for the right moment to take Jas away from him again. Did Nico have to prepare anything for Marnie? Was she going to join them for dinner? Would she be angry if the farm was a mess? It was now Nico realized he wasn’t all that close with this family and Jas was his responsibility now, and if Marnie took her away today it meant he had failed. It meant he probably wouldn’t be able to talk to them again – he needed to calm down. He shouldn’t spiral like this.

“Jas, can you set the table?” Nico asked.

He pointed her to the directions of the plates and she happily hopped down the stool and went to fulfill her given task.

“hey, are you okay?” Shane asked.

Nico simply nodded.

“you sure?”

This time Nico put on a smile. “Yes. I’m fine, it’s nothing really.”

It was nothing. It was a stupid thing to worry about. He took a deep breath and then tried to be more convincing when he told Shane again he was fine. He was fine. He could handle Marnie coming over and checking up on Jas. He also wanted the best for her and if he wasn’t good enough at taking care of her, then there was no reason for her to stay here. Instead of worrying about the outcome of her visit, he just had to focus on having a good time with Jas and Marnie once she came over.

****

Marnie decided to stop by right before dinner. She hadn’t planned on staying to eat, but Nico felt it was would rude to send her away without eating anything. Also, he had sort of planned for her eat with them, so he had made too much spaghetti for him and Jas to eat alone, which was a convincing enough argument for her to stay.

During the dinner he had called Shane, so he could feel like he was also a part of the dinner.

Jas talked about everything they had done on the farm, mostly how she was allowed to feed the chickens and she got to see how the cow was milked. All things she also did on the ranch, but maybe it felt different for her because it was someplace else. Although Nico hadn’t let her work with the tools, she took part in sowing the crops. At least a few them and that she took pride in, when she watered them. She said she would water them every day until they had finished growing.

Although Marnie had never explicitly said it, the only reason she had come by was because she needed to check on Jas. She almost seemed a bit disappointed when Jas was enjoying her time on the farm. Marnie had looked around the house, but Nico had already cleaned it to the best of his abilities and tidied the few places that were too messy. Jas was sleeping on his bed, where he had changed the sheets to clean ones, and he had taken out the madras he had in the beginning to sleep on himself for the time being. There was also space for the Jas to play with the toys she had brought, which she took out after they had eaten dinner. She had done her homework after they ate lunch. There was nothing for Marnie to complain about and for some reason she seemed to not like that fact.

At least she left in a good mood though. She cheerfully said goodbye to Jas and thank Nico again for taking on this responsibility.

When it was time for Jas to sleep, they called Shane again or rather they turned their attention back to Shane again as they had never hung up since dinner. Jas asked for a bedtime story which seemed to have surprised Shane. It probably wasn’t something she asked for a lot if ever. But Shane still said yes to her request and he managed to come up with something. It was clear he was improvising the whole thing, but Jas still loved it. Eventually she fell asleep.

Nico had barely noticed Jas was sleeping, it wasn’t until Shane stopped telling his story and he looked over at Jas to see she was fast asleep.

“It usually takes a lot more to get her to sleep.” Shane said. “She must have used a lot of energy today.”

“Yeah.” Nico said. “She has been running around all day and it’s a new place. I’m sure she’s exhausted.”

Shane smiled, but then his face turned serious.

“Hey, so I’ve meant to ask you something.” He said. “But something seemed kind of off with you today?”

Nico crawled out of the bed and went over to his own madras.

“What do you mean?” Nico said. “Everything is fine.”

“It just seemed you were a little bothered with Marnie’s visit, that’s all.” Shane said.

Nico shook his head and tried to put on a sincere smile. Except it was a lie. He was bothered. But he knew it was stupid he was bothered, and he wasn’t about to tell Shane that he was person who freaked out over stupid small things.

“Anyway, I just wanted to say if that was the case then Marnie probably didn’t mean anything with it. She just misses Jas, so any excuse to see her girl.” Shane said. “Actually, I’m sure she’s disappointed she doesn’t have a good enough reason to take Jas with her. She seemed almost annoyed with how well you were taking care of Jas.”

Shane chuckled at his own comment and Nico couldn’t help but smile. Shane was trying to calm him down and comfort him.

“Seriously, you are taking good care of her, Marnie and I are grateful for it.”

“It’s no problem, she makes the job very easy.” Nico said.

Shane looked at him with such warm eyes. Nico suddenly felt warm. He tried to suppress his smile. It wasn’t a big deal that Shane had just reassured him in the sweetest way possible. He realized he was being embarrassingly giddy.

He cleared his throat. “Uh, I think it’s time to sleep now. We’ll talk tomorrow. Goodnight.”

Shane barely got a chance to say goodbye before Nico hung up the phone. He put a hand over his heart as he felt it beating too fast in his chest. He shook his head, feeling the smile come on again when he thought about Shane’s words and how he had looked him. He tried to get rid of the smile, but it seemed impossible. This was pride. Pride of being able to take good care of Jas. Nothing more than that.

[sdvharveybby]

Hello!! I absolutely love your work. Do you think you can do prompt #50 (“Every time I think I’m close to finally figuring you out you end up surprising me.”) with Shane and a female farmer please? Thank you!

*sniffles* thank you so much, bby! I do try my hardest when it comes to these. I’ve always wanted to provide content that people enjoyed. I appreciate you saying this.

Anyways! Inspiration for this was rewatching one of my very first anime’s, Fruits Basket. The show is just stupid adorable and I recommend giving it a watch!

HERE YOU GO THEN! HOPE YOU ENJOYED IT.

Word Count: 1345

The farmer woke up one beautiful Spring morning. The sunlight cast through the curtains creating shadows and creating a warm glow amongst her furniture. It was day 20 and she specifically planned to give Shane something homemade for his birthday! Between the farmer and Shane, it was a rocky relationship- he constantly struggled with his doubts and self-worth, but she was determined to help him through it and be there whenever he needed it. And boy did he need it. Finding him on the cliffside completely wasted shook her to her core, but it was an impactful moment when she realized she adored him. Even through all his faults, anxiety, and depression- she wanted nothing more than to bring a smile to his face and see this through to the end. Shane warmed up to her day by day; less grouchy and he always got excited when he’d see her. She was helping to change his life for the better and he’s unbelievably grateful for it.

The farmer stretched that morning with a smile on her face, I want to completely blow his mind! He’ll be like, “This is the best thing I’ve ever tasted!”, she thought to herself, absolutely giddy at the thought. She bounded towards the fridge and began gathering ingredients, “Okay, he likes pizza… Mm, pepper poppers… Yeah! That, I’ll make pepper poppers. He’ll be so happy!” With a determined smile she began her work. It didn’t take long as the peppers she had frozen from last summer stayed fresh and spicy. “I want to make him so happy he’ll never stop smiling.” The farmer’s eyes were sparkling- it was a drive to make him focus on all the good in his life. Instead of the doom and gloom before, she wanted to show him that there was so much good in life to look forward too! In her head, she tried to plan out every interaction they would have together this day. She wanted nothing to go unchecked, and she wanted this to be a great birthday! He deserves this, she thought before placing the peppers pots into a container.

The sun shown bright in the sky when she stepped outside. Not a cloud in the sky and the faint smell of flowers and growing plant life filled her nostrils, making her even more giddy to see him. It was beautiful outside- the wind calm and the noises of wildlife filling any silence that winter had had last season. She started down the path towards town, hoping to see him walking around. Currently 1:30pm she figured she would try at Stardrop Saloon as Gus quickly became a bit of a counselor to Shane whenever he felt like he wanted to drink. It was a request from Marnie and the farmer herself to get Gus to stop serving him alcohol. She walked in, the sound of music, that equally made her excited and calm at the same time, filled her ears. “Hey there farmer! What could I grab you?” She smiled and shook her head, “Nothing for me today. Have you seen Shane? It’s his birthday and I made him some food.” Gus smiled from ear to ear and gave a small chuckle, “Haven’t seen him, but Marnie came in just a bit ago to drop off some product. She said that Shane’s been at the barn all day, but he won’t show anyone what he’s doing.” He laughed again and began cleaning off one of his glasses. The farmer gave him a puzzled look, but turned to walk out the door, “Thanks, Gus!”

The farmer admitted that she didn’t expect him to still be at the barn, but she was curious to see what he had been working on. She remembered him saying that he wanted to pick up better habits and hobbies now that he was recovering- something to keep his mind off alcohol. The farmer was perplexed, but she made her way towards Marnie’s place.

Before she even knocked on the door, it opened to reveal Shane. He seemed excited and a bit sweaty, but he gave her a big smile, “I was hoping you’d arrive! There’s something that I want to show you…”  She followed him through the house into the kitchen and came upon a door. Was that door always there? I don’t remember seeing it… What’s he on about...? She didn’t know what to expect. Shane was a man that kept people on their toes, and it made her a bit nervous at times, but he seemed so happy that she didn’t want to overthink anything.

Inside was actually a coop with several chickens running about. On the wall was a sign freshly painted red that said, ‘Fresh Eggs’ “I’ve been working on this for a while now.” It was pretty spacious, and it smelled of hay and paint. She was surprised to say the least- it was as if question marks appeared over her very head. “Shane… this is incredible. I knew you liked chickens, but wow!” He beamed at her; his big smile made her heart skip a beat. “I thought you’d like it. I’m sorry I kept it from you, but I didn’t know how this, and the chickens would turn out.” He admitted as he walked in, petting some chickens nearby. What caught her eye was that there were sky blue chickens running around. Their colors were vibrant and beautiful- unlike anything she had ever seen. Her eyes were wide as she bent down to pet one, “Oh, yeah! Those are my special blue chickens. I’ve been specially breeding them to be mild tempered and with blue feathers.” The farmer opened her mouth to speak but nothing came out. The feathers were soft and she couldn’t keep her eyes off of them. “Hey, we should sit. I made this up just a bit ago.” She turned to see a blanket, decorated with chickens on it, and a picnic basket. It had plates, a few glasses, joja cola, and some sandwiches in it. He sheepishly looked at her, blushing a bit, “I- uh, I know it’s not like a picnic outside or anything, but you know… Maybe we could spend some time together… If you- If you want to that is.” Shane didn’t give her eye contact as he said this- he was flustered and blushing madly. He was nervous of her reaction, but as the farmer had been so helpful to his recovery, he wanted to do something special. She smiled so warmly to him that it made him blush even more, “Every time I think I’m close to finally figuring you out you end up surprising me.” She laughed as she said, blushing herself, but it was true. The farmer didn’t know what to expect whenever she saw him- his dates were never “normal” but they were always thoughtful and sweet.

She handed him the container of the pepper poppers, “Happy birthday, Shane. Although you surprised me more than I did you- I hope your birthday today made you smile.” His eyes were wide and mouth agape when he realized what was in the container. She snapped him out of his own excitement when she pressed her lips against his cheek, kissing him before she sat down on the blanket. Shane was certainly stunned at this; his whole face was red and he looked off into the distance.

“Thank you for that,” He choked out before trying to collect himself and sitting down.

The rest of the evening was fantastic! They spent time together eating food and being in each other’s company. Before they wanted to retire, he introduced to her to all the chickens in his coop. Giving special attention to his favorite, Charlie. It was a great day to spend together, something the farmer wouldn’t ever forget.

His excited smile and hopeful eyes made it all worth it.