#so anyways I was thinking of putting a cup over it then a plastic plate to let it go

[osakunt]

A new era has begun. Please meet osakunt.

I’m still going by as Yess. I’m still a girl, I’m still a she/her/ that bitch 🫣

The layout is staying the same but the theme is here lmao.

yesamu was the soft side but osakunt is here to show our nasty side…..even more (?)

[luveline]

kisses before dinner — steve comes home to his girls after a long day. 2k, mom!reader

Steve has a back ache twinging between his shoulders that takes his breath away as he treks the last step up to the front door. The door gets caught on the latch when he pushes it open, which is awesome, Steve’s so glad you’re being safe late at night, but deplorable in that he has wood grain etched into his jaw and no way inside. 

“Girls?” He knocks the glass pane. “Anybody home?” 

Everyone should be home. Your car is in the driveway, the girls’ shoes are by the wall. He pushes the door open as far as he can (not far) and weasels his face into the gap to look for you. It’s dark besides the upstairs bathroom light. 

Steve calls your name a few times, but eventually comes to the realisation that you’re all asleep and he’s locked out. He closes the door and heads back to his car to scrounge the spare back door key from under his seat. 

He fights through the garden gate covered in brambles to the backyard. It hasn’t been touched since summer, forgotten things left to the elements. Avery’s bike flakes with copper coloured rust against the wall. The trampoline net is tangled and fallen off of one side. There are plastic cups in the stinging nettles growing back beneath it and gummy bears swollen with water along the paving stones like some poor retelling of Hansel and Gretel. He unlocks the back door and promptly knocks over the trash can he’d left in front of it. His back whines as he cleans it away, but at least it’s warm inside. 

It’s good to be home. 

He shoves the toppled garbage back into the can, washes tomato sauce off of his hands in the sink, and lets himself bask in his own poorly lit company for a moment, rubbing his tired eyes. He was hoping for a welcome party. It took longer to help Robin move than they’d anticipated. 

“I won’t be back for a while,” he’d said apologetically down the phone. 

“Okie dokie,” you’d crooned. He didn’t need to see you to know there was a baby in your lap. “Just come home when you can, babe. And lift with your knees! I’ll put your plate in the fridge, yes? Love you.” Your voice turned to sugar. “Love you, love you, love you, honey.” You definitely weren’t talking to him at that point. Mother of my kids, he’d thought reverently, the strength of a thousand men restored for an hour or two before the fatigue truly set in and he and Robin considered leaving the rest of her furniture on her new front lawn.

He scratches his hair from his eyes with both hands. Mother of my kids, he thinks again. You’ve actually managed to keep the kitchen tidy, the only evidence of a day of play being the grape juice rings on the dining table placemats. How the fuck you’ve done it is a miracle worth marvelling. Three children, one (admittedly smaller) baby bump, and a full eighteen hours by yourself. You’re very impressive. 

He decides to tell you emphatically with his face in your neck. He should shower, and he will apologise to you for subjecting you to his sweaty hair in the morning. You’ll shrug off his apology, say something sweet about for better or worse or maybe wrinkle your nose and kiss him anyways. 

Steve honestly can’t find any shame about how much he likes you. Like and love can begin to diverge in a marriage, especially after kids when your duty as parents is more important than it is as partners, but you’ve yet to let him pull away, and he won’t give you a reason to. He’ll keep trying as hard as possible to be a husband you can adore. And you don’t have to do much, really. Realistically you give the majority of yourself every day to Steve and your kids, but he would cling to you if you got sick of it. He knows he would. You could turn hermit and live under the bed, and Steve would spend half his life on his stomach just looking at you.

Half trying to pull you out again. The other half getting the girls ready for school. He’s so tired he doesn’t realise that this is too many halves. 

When he gets to the top of the stairs he feels like a lifetime has passed since he left that morning, bright and early at 5AM. There’d been driving, car swaps, booing at people from behind the wheel, a hundred boxes, a million trips up and down the stairs, and a suspicious washing machine recalibration. This was without the cold coke drinking, peanuts, popcorn, mistimed movie references, and the obligatory insulting of Robin’s girlfriend’s mauve chaise, of which Robin refused to participate. 

Between all that, there’d been worrying, and a want for more phone calls. Promise me you’ll call me if you need anything at all, he’d said that morning, giving your face a fond caress. There’s a confidence that comes with this much love. Steve can pour every inch of his affection for you into one touch and knows you’ll soak it up like a sponge. Really. Any problems, any stress, any tantrums. Just call me. I’m ten minutes away. 

You were grateful if amused, telling him he didn’t need to worry so much, and then offering him another slice of toast. 

Is it weird how much I love my wife? he wonders, pushing open the bedroom door gently. 

You’re actually awake! He’s shocked and a little betrayed to find you looking at him, but the betrayal fades when he notices the swelling around your eyes and your trembling arm as you hoist yourself up under Avery’s weight. He’s woken you up coming in. 

“Sorry,” he mouths, frowning at your shakiness. 

You manage a smile and beckon him forward. The problem is the little ladies strewn about in the way. Avery drools on your chest while Dove takes up the entirety of Steve’s side, spread into a star shape, and Bethie snores loudly by your knees. An especially aggressive one makes him laugh as he rounds the bed to your side. 

“Hello,” he whispers, taking your face into a loving hand, “sorry I’m back so late.” 

You smile into his palm but don’t say anything. 

“You okay? Had a good day?” he asks.

You hum something nonsensical. He wipes at your cheek in the rough way you enjoy, your face bumped with every stroke of his thumb.

“Did you…”  Your eyelashes flutter closed. “Did you eat?” 

“Loads. Sorry. I’ll eat my dinner tomorrow.”

You wrinkle your nose. He’s been dying to see it. “Don’t bother, it wasn’t my best.”

“All dinners are your best.” 

You cover his hand with yours, and then you steal it away from your cheek and kiss it all over. Steve bends down to hug you.

“Missed you,” you say at the same time. Steve laughs. “Was it a long day?” you ask. 

“I could ask you the same thing.” 

“It was aeons,” you say. “The girls were good, mostly. Baby not so much.” 

“Aw, no,” he croons softly, “what’s she been doing?” 

“She won’t let me eat.” 

Steve rubs the top of your arm. “I’m sorry, honey. You should’ve called me.” 

“What are you gonna do, H?”

He breathes out into the side of your face. “You’re right, like always. What can I do?” 

He can’t do a thing to ease your morning sickness, so… Steve ends up taking a knee on the bed beside you to hold you for a while, no rush to lay down even though he aches in strings and shouts. “I’m glad I can’t get pregnant. I’d have hundreds of your babies if I could and it would be torture.” 

You laugh at his absurdity in the giggly startled way he’d been hoping for. 

“Did you throw up?” he asks, pulling away enough to see your face while his hand starts the soft journey down your front to your bump. You’re about three months along and the bump came quickly. It’s cute and Steve loves it and he tries not to be weird about it but he’s weird about you. 

“No, just kept churning. I made eggs for breakfast and we can’t eat them anymore.” 

Steve kisses your cheek, the corner of your eye, knowing it’ll make you happy. Your smile follows swiftly after, and he kisses that with gusto. “I don’t even like eggs,” he mumbles.

“You love eggs.” 

“What was it like being the stay at home mom today?” he asks. 

“Hard. But fun. Avery was being really nice to me all day, did you have something to do with that?” 

“Avery’s always nice.” 

Your smile widens impossibly, “Yeah, but she was asking me if I wanted to sit down and if I needed a glass of water all day.” 

Steve shrugs. “Doesn’t sound like something I’d do.” 

“Well don’t do it again, H. She’s just a baby. She doesn’t need to worry about me.” 

Steve strokes your forehead, totally in your orbit. “She’s not worrying. Are you worrying about her when you take care of her? And sometimes you need a reminder.” 

You chew it over. “Okay… you’re right. You win that one, Harrington. Mostly ‘cos I’m too tired.”

Steve always wins when he gets to slide into bed next to you. You push yourself over and bunch the kids up tighter. There’s not quite enough room for him. He feels as though he’s one little legged kick from falling back out, but he doesn’t mind, wrapping an arm around you and Avery where she’s sliding off of you and onto the mattress between you both. The poor girl is in a deep sleep, dribbling from the corner of her mouth. Steve wipes it away. 

“You comfortable enough?” he asks. 

“I’m fine. Thank you for asking.” 

He rests his head against yours on the pillows. “Missed you.” 

“But you had fun, right?” 

“It was great. I feel like I ran a marathon.” 

“Exhausted?” you ask. 

“And accomplished… You sure you’re okay? It was a long day by yourself. That stunt you pulled in the kitchen? Incredible.” 

“I thought you’d like that. I told the girls you’d buy them a pony.” 

“You did not.” 

You laugh into his cheek. “No, I didn't, you caught me… I’m fine, really. I did miss you. It’s not nice, not seeing you. I’m used to a couple of hours, but it started feeling wrong when it was dark out, I… it’s silly but I was thinking about how horrible it would be if you never came back–”

Your pitch lifts up as Steve gasps and slaps a hand over your mouth (doesn’t slap, but covers, big hand on your lips and pressing them shut without sympathy). 

“Don’t be ridiculous.” He meets your eyes, smiling hard despite the fatigue clinging to you both, and doesn’t buckle, even as you kiss his palm again. “Pregnancy brain is a scary thing.” 

Your eyes turn to melting. He’s putty immediately, pulling your hand away to caress your cheek. 

“Wanna be crazy in love in the morning?” he asks gently. You put your arm behind Avery’s back and smile as she snuggles into your ribs. Steve kisses your nose. “Go to sleep, honey. I can feel how tired you are. Back to normal in the morning.” 

“Love you, Steve.” 

“Love you, too.”

[kitchenwitchtingss]

50 KITCHEN WITCH TIPS TO MAKE YOU FEEL MORE WITCHY

(And other useful things I've learned over the years)

Hi! This is a list of dos, don'ts, tips, tricks, and other fun things that I've learned over the years. I always love finding more effective and efficient ways of doing things so if you have any cool things you'd like to add, leave them in the comments or reblog. I'd love to read it.

Anyways... On with the list ^_^

Light candles around your kitchen space (just make sure nothing flammable is near you)

Annotate your cookbooks with the correspondence of the ingredients.

Mediating is really good to calm the mind before cooking.

Cut oranges and lemons thinly, dry them, and hang them with twine around your kitchen

Need a cleansing tip? Open all your windows near your kitchen. Let some fresh air in.

Cutting sigils into apples, pie crusts, and carved potatoes.

Save lemon and orange rinds, freeze them, and then use them to clean the garbage disposal.

Make infused oils and honey: Things like garlic honey, lavender honey, herb oil, sun oil, moon oil, dandelion oil, and other different edible oils are very fun and useful to make.

Hid sigils in pages of your cookbooks and kitchen witch journals.

Add some plants! Snake plants and spider plants don't need too much light, and growing your own herbs in your kitchen is awesome too. Basil, lavender, thyme, aloe vera, rosemary, etc. are good fits. You could also add some plants that require more sunlight on the kitchen window sill. Like cacti and succulents.

Bring crystals into your kitchen space such as rose quartz, clear quartz, amethyst, or whatever you want the space's intentions to be.

I keep a small money tree on the sill, along with cacti for luck and protection.

Make a simmer Pot! Mostly because it makes the whole house smell good, easy, and fun.

Stir clockwise for best results!

Learning how to pickle things is actually pretty witchy. Plus, anyone could do it as it requires absolutely no kitchen experience. You could pickle any vegetable, even if you don't like pickles. I originally learned this after having to take shelter from a natural disaster. A person brought a bunch of stuff and taught us how to pickle things with different spices and herbs. Very fun!

Decorate your kitchen with your favorite stuff. Crystals, decor, heat mits, that cool mushroom cake stand you've been eyeing at the World Market for the past 2 weeks, cool looking curtains, sun catchers. Why stop there? Paint the walls, hang shelves full of marked-up cookbooks that are a little too well-loved and thumbed through.

Wanna be the person that has the amazing-smelling house every time people come over? Syrups take some time to simmer down, it's actually a pretty good time to leave it on the stove to simmer. Since syrups have a lot of aromatic ingredients, it acts as a really good-smelling simmer pot.

Hang up herbs to dry with twine from cabinets that are rarely used.

Invest in that new set of plates and cups.

Homemade jams, butter, sauces, and syrups are your best friend.

Crochet or knit your own dish rags, pot holders, etc.

Don't pour extremely hot things into a glass that's not Pyrex, it will break, and you will be very sad about it.

Don't cook anything while extremely upset or emotional (For safety reasons)

Make recipes you want to make, not just because you'll like the effect. Make it because you think it's tasty.

Chinese Five Spice works in place of herbs for protection and luck spells a lot of the time! It's cheaper to buy 1 spice than 4 different spices that total up to 15 dollars when you could just spend 3-4 dollars.

Take a shower before cooking (I don't know how to explain this one other than it makes you feel better)

Don't use microfiber/plastic material clothes on hot burners, it will fuse to the burner and melt. It is VERY hard to get off.

I don't know if I need to put this one but I did see someone do it so nonstick pan = wooden utensils and plastic utensils, metal pan = metal utensils. Do not use a metal spoon in a nonstick pan, please. It can make you very sick.

Keep your pets away from hot oil, open ovens, and hot pans.

You can proof bread dough in the fridge overnight if you don't have the time to bake, or want to eat fresh bread right in the morning.

Need a quick witchy meal for dinner in 12 minutes? Use premade tomato pasta sauce and doctor it up with thyme, rosemary, and garlic, for protection and distilling stagnant energies. Serve with pasta of your liking.

You can substitute Butter for Crisco/shortening, buttermilk for 1 cup of milk + 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, and heavy cream for 1 cup of half and half plus 2 tbsp of butter.

Use leftover animal bones to make bone broth

Teach yourself the art of bread scoring (It's fun, and you can show it off to your loved ones!)

Collect and hoard your own and others' family recipes.

Sometimes the food doesn't have to be a spell, sometimes it just makes you feel good and you don't know why.

Listen to your favorite music in the kitchen, it makes the monotonous things like chopping veggies move faster.

Invest in a vegetable chopper if you don't like chopping vegetables.

Find a really good hot cocoa recipe and make it once a week. Master it. Just for your own happiness because hot cocoa is really good. You could also be the friend/family member that makes the best hot cocoa ever.

Focaccia Bread Lasts a very long time, and it's very easy to make!

Keep a first aid kit near where the oven is, in case of burns, cuts, or serious injuries where time is everything.

Quick Bread and no-rise loaves are simple for beginners, tasty, and take little time. They also feel very witchy to make.

Study a bit of Herbalism! It's fun and really helps better understand the herbs you're putting into your food.

While something is boiling, put your wooden spoon over the pot to minimize the chance of something boiling over.

Try a bit of coffee magick, it's simple to get into, and gives you a boost of energy to take on the day!

If you're over 21, wine-making is a very interesting way to celebrate the sabbats. Just with that, make sure you KNOW what you're doing. With anything fermented, there's always a risk if you don't store things correctly. Apple wines, strawberry wines, dandelion wines, etc. all very cool to experiment with. If you're not over 21, vinegar is a similar way to experiment.

Hang up some witchy things, sigils, photos, cool magnets, and other things that give you joy on your fridge. (Sometimes if you are lucky they have some fun magnets at five below)

If you live in the US, for some reason, there are a lot of books in the book section dedicated to witchcraft and spirituality. At least where I live. And they are all under 5 dollars!

Teas are the cheapest and easiest things you can practice being a kitchen witch.

[joeys-babe]

Joey B Blurbs: Angel Eyes

————————————————————————-

Summary: You attempt to prank Joe, but his angel-like eyes and all-convincing pout have your prank backfiring.

Warnings: Fluff, pranks!

Pairing: Joe Burrow x reader

Imagine Universe: Into the Mystic

A/N: Part 5 of blurb night!

————————————————————————-

No particular date for this blurb!

“Dinner time!” - you

Grinning as I paused the music playing over my speaker, I couldn't help but feel nothing but happiness watching my three boys run into the kitchen from the living room.

“Looks great, baby.” - Joe smiled

“Thanks, but I'm sure it won't look too good when you're cleaning it off plates later.” - you

“I don't care, that's our rule. If someone fixes it, the other cleans it. If we both cook, we both clean.” - Joe

I stood on my tiptoes and gave him a big kiss.

“Crap, I forgot drinks.” - you mumble, sighing

“You sit down, I’ll get ‘em.” - Joe

Before doing as Joe said, I got the twins into their booster seats and then sat down myself.

Joe walked back into the dining room just a moment later, his big hands allowing him to hold all four cups.

“Thanks.” - you

“Of course.” - Joe

Joe then put food onto all our plates, taking one of my hands in his when we started eating.

“Love you.” - Joe

“Love you too.” - you

——

After dinner, it was bath time for Tyson and Miles.

“We seriously need to order wet suits.” - Joe

“Why?” - you laughed

“They splash!” - Joe

“Oh, suck it up. Let's go.” - you

The tub was filled moments later, and Tyson and Miles climbed in. They were still young enough to bathe together - not like they would agree to do it separately anyway.

“Look!” - Tyson

Ty held up one of the plastic bath toys in Joe’s face, showing off his little tiger toy.

“That’s cool buddy. It’s like the mascot for the Bengals.” - Joe

“Yup!” - Tyson

Joe grabbed their mini basketball hoop out of the bath toy drawer and suction-cupped it to the shower wall.

“Can you make a basket, bubs?” - you

I handed Miles a mini-basketball, and he nodded and launched the ball across the shower.

Somehow making it in, Joe looked at me shocked.

“Gah-lee! Draft him to the league.” - Joe

“He’s got a cannon of an arm like his daddy does.” - you winked

Joe smiled and playfully rolled his eyes, handing Tyson a ball in the process.

“Let's start actually washing.” - you laughed

——

After getting the twins completely washed off and dried Joe and I headed to their room to get them dressed and ready for bed.

They wore matching pajamas, of course.

Miles and Tyson climbed into Tyson’s bed like they did every night for Joe to tell them a story. I laid down next to them and buckled up for the story Joe was about to tell.

“What kind of story do you guys want to hear tonight?” - Joe

“Lo- ve.” - Tyson

“A love story?” - you

Tyson nodded, so Joe continued.

“Okay. I’ll tell you my favorite one.” - Joe

He grinned, and not only did I know his devious smile was directed towards me, but I knew it meant he was up to something.

“One day, this boy, we’ll name him Joe, went to school.” - Joe

“That's your name!” - Miles

I immediately knew where this was headed, and I felt butterflies swarm my stomach.

“Yup. It was the first day of his senior year of high school. Not thinking much, he went to his first-period class. His teacher always made a boy and a girl sit together, and Joe thought he’d hate it, but it ended up being the best thing to ever happen to him.” - Joe

Both of the boys gasped, making Joe chuckle before he continued.

“Joe found his seat and saw that a girl he'd never seen before was sitting there. He thought she was beautiful, but Joe was focusing on football. Joe would soon find out that her name was y/n.” - Joe

“Like Mommy!” - Miles

“Yup, like Mommy. Joe and y/n talked the entire class, and they did that every day. They quickly realized that they had a lot in common and became best friends. Fast forward a bit, y/n wins homecoming queen, and Joe escorts her on the field. There, y/n called Joe her best friend… and told him that he was cute.” - Joe

There was another gasp from the twins, and I rolled my eyes with a smile on my face.

“Woah!” - Tyson

“I know, right? Not too long before that, Joe realized that he had a crush on her, but he just didn't know how to drop hints. After a little brainstorming, Joe asked y/n to the dance at school, but she already had a date.” - Joe

“Oh no!” - Tyson

“That's what Joe thought too, but the dance ended up being the best day of Joe’s life. The guy y/n went to the dance with ditched her, and Joe went alone. Y/n found Joe walking around in the hallways by himself, and she asked if he wanted to go see which teachers left their classroom doors open. Joe said yes, and y/n held his hand as they walked through the hallways. The chemistry door was open, which was the class they met in. They sat down at their table, and Joe realized it would be the perfect time to tell her how he felt. Joe told y/n he liked her, and y/n liked Joe too.” - Joe

Another gasp from Miles and Tyson, and I giggled at the look on their faces as Joe told the story of him and I getting together.

“Joe then asked y/n to be his girlfriend, and she said yes. Guess what happened next.” - Joe

“What?” - Miles

“They kissed.” - Joe

“Ew!!” - Miles

“Aww!” - Tyson

I laughed at their differing opinions, which were stated at the same time, and Joe did too, before giving me a wink.

“They live happily ever after?” - Tyson

“Yup. They got married and are still together to this day. They love each other very much. They're parents too, to twin boys.” - Joe

“Like me and Ty?” - Miles

“Mhm, and y/n is pregnant with a baby girl.” - Joe

“Like Mommy!” - Tyson

“Wait… is it about you and Mommy?” - Miles

Joe looked at me with a tiny smile on his face, the bling in his eyes making my heart flutter.

“Yes. That's how we met. The best day of my life.” - Joe grinned

——

“That was super sweet, Joey.” - you

“The story?” - Joe smiled

We had just walked into our bedroom from putting the twins to sleep, and my mind was stuck on Joe retelling the story of how we met.

“Yeah. I'm glad I got it right the first time.” - you

“Get what right?” - Joe

“Picking a boyfriend. We really said one and done.” - you laughed

“For real, but I’m glad too. Thank god for boy-girl seating chart teachers.” - Joe

Joe plopped onto the bed onto his stomach after pulling his shirt off, asking without words for me to lay down and scratch his back.

I walked over and leaned down, pressing a kiss between his shoulder blades before waking over to the bathroom.

In our usual routine, Joe and I would shower together. We took the time to share some non-sexual intimacy while spending our uncommon alone time exclusively together.

But today, Joe’s getting pranked.

Walking into the bathroom, I shut the door and locked it behind me.

I rushed to set my phone up to start videoing, then turned the shower on.

Almost instantaneously, Joe was knocking on the bathroom door.

Looking at the camera and laughing, I let him knock a couple of times before opening the door.

“Baby? Are you showering without me?” - Joe

He had his bottom lip stuck out in a pout, giving me his classic pleading angel eyes. Joe knew that combo got him anything.

“I just felt like having some alone time.” - you

Joe’s mouth fell open as he stared at me, honestly looking offended.

“What?” - Joe

“I wanted some alone time.” - you chuckle

“You seriously don't want me to shower with you?” - Joe

I stepped up on my tiptoes and pecked Joe’s lips, patting his chest when I pulled away.

“Maybe next time, babe.” - you

Making sure I was off-camera, I started undressing and the look on Joe’s face made me feel sad.

Once I was fully undressed, I hopped in the glass shower and shut the door behind me.

I looked over at Joe only to find him staring right at me with the same pout on his face.

“Aww, c’mere. I was just joking. You can shower with me, baby.” - you

“That's what I thought.” - Joe mumbled

When Joe undressed and hopped into the shower, I pulled him into my arms and pressed kisses all over his neck and face.

“You were videoing that entire thing weren't you?” - Joe

“Of course.” - you grinned

“You’re going to be the death of me.” - Joe

“Good way to go out though, right?” - you

“The best.” - Joe smiled

————————————————————————-

Authors note: Next fic at 9:25!!!

Requests for this fic;

[athenadione]

'overcoming the fear of you and something more'

(What started out as a tiny drabble turned into THIS monstrosity of a fic, and nope I couldn't leave it without adding a little bit of *angst*. I hope you all enjoy, and find that opening yourself up to love isn't always a bad thing ;)

Read on ao3 HERE

Words: 9286

Rated: M

Fear is a fickle thing. 

It’s usually something Raven can never quite grasp. On the rare occasion that she does, by then it evolves into something different, something more. 

Something that she doesn’t want to name. 

And as much as she knows that it has a tendency to manifest in a way she never anticipates, she shoves down that feeling at the dinner table in favor of ignoring it. The less attention she can bring to herself the better. 

Especially since the root of it all is sitting across from her. 

If she could she would be able to rationalize that her conglomeration of emotions are natural — a testament to her humanity rather. It’s good that she’s able to feel things so freely for once, but she can’t think straight right now. 

Not when Damian is helping Mar’i settle back into her high chair, taking extra care to buckle her in and wiping the corner of her mouth with his thumb. 

Her heart pounds in a way that unsettles her deeply at the sight, and she can’t help when her power takes hold of a dish on the counter and slams it back down.  

It’s a good thing it’s plastic. And that Mar’i is used to loud sounds.

Emerald eyes flash to her with immediate concern, along with similar looks from everyone else at the table. 

“Raven, is everything alright?” Richard asks her as Kori takes advantage of a distracted Mar’i with a spoonful of mushy peas in one hand. 

“Ah, yes. I’m sorry,” the scrape of Raven’s chair makes her wince even more apologetically when she scoots back, “let me go set that in the dishwasher.” 

“Oh, just put it in the sink and we’ll get to it later,” Kori says without looking at her, “I have to wash some of Mar’i’s bottles anyway.” 

“You’ve been having more slip ups lately, is something bothering you?” Richard presses further, ever the nosy older brother. 

Knowing that Damian’s eyes are still on her, even as she lowers to her knees to grab the plate off the floor, she takes great care to keep her voice even. 

“I’m fine, don’t worry about me. It’s probably just a cold or something, you know I’ve been sneezing more lately.” That much was true. The turn of the season to Spring left something to be desired — which was clear sinuses. Raven was as surprised as everyone else to find out that a half-demon could get allergies. So lame.  With the attention focused solely on her, Raven feels her desperation rising to change the subject. She clears her throat after placing the plate into an already full sink, 

“So have you both figured out if you’re able to make Gar’s wedding?” 

Richard chews the side of his lip, casting a glance to Kori before answering, “We think we can make it, but we’re not completely sure. I heard Jamie is going with his new fiancée.” 

Raven raises a brow, “I didn’t know he had one.” 

“We just found out this week,” Kori tells her, still battling Mar’i over the peas, “she seems nice, but we haven’t met her yet. She’s from his hometown.” 

“Hmm.” Raven slides back into her seat, both hands going straight for her cup of tea. The conversation continues with Richard and Kori talking back and forth about Gar’s wedding plans with Terra. Apparently they finally decided on a venue out on the Grand Canyon. Raven thinks it’s fitting. 

By the time her nerves settle enough to pick up her fork to continue with her chicken alfredo, she sees that Mar’i’s attention is back on Damian. Her little fingers reach for the necklace around his shirt, grasping the chain she knows has two dog tags on them — both with written words in Arabic. Raven hadn’t gotten close enough to try to read them. Not that she’s fluent anyway. 

The slight burrow of Damian’s brows is the only sign of his hesitancy towards the little girl. Raven watches as he drops his own fork, then attempts to gently pry Mar’i’s fingers from them. Instead of letting go completely, Mar’i decides to grab one of his fingers in all of her tiny ones. 

There’s that funny feeling again, working its way up into a lump in the back of her throat as Damian looks down at their hands in a quiet wonder. Kori smothers a laugh while Richard watches, looking strangely proud. 

“She loves her Uncle Dami,” Richard says, chuckling when Damian sends a bewildered look his way. He motions back down to Mar’i’s fingers. 

“They’re so… small,” he says, looking back to their joined hands. 

“I know right? It’s crazy. I still can’t believe that we have her sometimes, it’s so unreal. Being a parent is…” 

“Unlike anything I could have ever imagined,” Kori finishes, a faraway smile on her face. Mar’i swings her head back over to her mother, babbling in confirmation. Richard chuckles at the noise.

“One-hundred percent.” 

Raven swallows hard. 

The rest of dinner goes as smoothly as she can expect with the growing storm of emotions threatening to spill over with every stolen glance to the pair across from her. She forces herself to eat, if just to stop anyone else from asking too many questions. 

Her mind drifts as the conversation takes another turn. To her friends. To everyone that had scattered with the winds over the years. Gar to adventure with Terra wherever they wanted — and about to be married. Kori and Richard, now settled in Blüdhaven with Mar’i. Even Jamie, apparently finding love in his hometown. 

Damian had stayed with her in Jump. As much as she wanted to ask why back then when the Titans officially disbanded years ago, she still hasn’t.

Mostly because she’s not sure she’s ready to hear his answer. 

Dinner is over when Mar’i begins to fuss, and it heightens to the point that she can’t be consoled. She doesn’t want to listen to the Tameranean lullabies of her mother, or the soft rocking of her father. She doesn’t want the warm milk Richard heats up for her, or even the pacifier that Kori tries to stick in her mouth. As time goes on and her parents run out of options, nothing seems to quiet her down. 

Raven’s eyes soften in understanding that sometimes you don’t know what you want or need. 

Raven takes the time to clean up after everyone while the screaming ensues, waving Kori off when she thanks her profusely and apologizes all in the same breath. Richard walks away further into the house, most likely in search of something to help calm Mar’i down. 

“No worries at all, truly. Thank you for inviting us over,” Raven responds in earnest. 

The invites had started to climb since Mar’i was born. It’s easier to invite them because of her ability to create portals. And the boom tube of course, with one now built inside of their home for easy travel. Still, Raven figures that both Kori and Richard haven’t had a night out in months. It’s probably also easier to have Mar’i at home, and Raven doesn’t mind in the slightest. 

Except for the little moments that throw her off balance until she’s teetering off the edge into something she doesn’t understand. 

Which has inadvertently caused her current predicament. 

So focused on her own thoughts and rinsing off plates, Raven nearly jumps out of her skin when she feels a hand at her lower back. She doesn’t have to look behind her to know it’s Damian. 

His touch burns her through the silk shirt of her blouse. 

“Let me help,” he says, rolling up the sleeves of his button-up and his arm brushes against hers. The grip on her sponge slackens as a familiar heat runs through her. She takes a step to the side. 

“I’m okay, you can—”

“Take her, please. I don’t know what else to do.” Kori unceremoniously pushes Mar’i up against Damian’s chest, and he’s forced to put his arms around her to keep her from falling. 

“Just hold her for a minute while I run her a bath, that usually helps calm her down.” Kori runs away just as fast as she came, yelling across her shoulder, “Thank you!” 

Mar’i’s face is an angry red as hot tears roll down her face. Damian wraps a hand around the back of her head to keep her secure against his chest while the other settles against her bottom. For a minute or two all either of them can hear is her high-pitched screaming. Raven holds back a grimace. 

Then Damian starts to hum a low, foreign tune, while patting her bottom gently. 

Raven chokes back on a suggestion, enamored by the way Damian seems to immediately calm her. 

Mar’i hiccups, tears still falling but not as frequent as Damian continues his hum in her ear. It’s some kind of lullaby, that much she can tell. Mar’i moves her head to stare up at him with big eyes, just as bright as her mother’s. 

Damian gently nudges her to settle her back against his chest in a move that makes her sigh with another hiccup. As Raven continues to clean up the kitchen by finding the tupperware and putting up the leftovers, Damian continues to hum and pat in a rhythm that quickly puts Mar’i to sleep. 

The room falls silent while Raven sets the dishwasher to start. She glances back over in time to watch Damian place the smallest of kisses against Mari’i’s head. 

It’s such a small and intimate gesture that takes Raven by surprise. It’s genuine, and raw, and the open look on his face nearly undoes her. Seeing this side of Damian with Mar’i only further threatens the hold over her power. She yanks back on the transparent black that encases a cup she missed, hoping that Damian doesn’t notice. 

One look behind her shoulder tells her that he does. 

“Grayson’s right. You have been on edge lately, any reason why? And don’t tell me it’s allergies because we both know that you were lying earlier.” 

Raven just barely holds back her wince. She doesn't know why she ever thought she’d get something past him. For all the years they’ve spent together at the tower, she knows he can now read her like a book. 

In fact, he knows exactly how she takes her tea, what time she likes to meditate in the afternoons. He even knows when she’s starting to get a migraine by the extra gel ice pack she finds in the freezer. 

A frown tugs at the corners of her mouth. 

He knows her. 

So why does that terrify her so much?

“Honestly there’s just been a lot on my mind…” her voice falters, not able to meet his eyes because she knows he’ll see the half-truth in that statement. 

“Raven…” 

The sounds of her name from his lips brings her eyes right back up to his. 

She knows he won’t push her — that he’ll always defer to her choice when to speak her mind. She also knows that he allows her to hear the concern in his voice just as he can hear the uncertainty is hers. 

She starts to chew the inside of her cheek, a habit she had picked up after gaining the freedom to express her emotions more. A nervous one that Damian knows from the way his brows knit further together. She sighs, opting to ignore the question altogether and focus the attention back on Mar’i. 

“I’m impressed, and a little jealous that you’re so good with her,” she admits jokingly.  

Damian sees through her blatant attempt at avoiding him, but thankfully he allows it. 

“I’m not sure why all it took was me holding her,” he admits.

“Maybe because of your energy. You’re always calm and so sure of yourself.” It’s just a theory but Raven has a hunch Mar’i might already be stepping into some of her power.  

“I imagine Mar’i might be able to sense that.” 

Damian looks at her, his face now unreadable, and Raven can tell that he’s analyzing her words  — trying to figure out what exactly they mean.

No doubt from years of back-handed compliments from not only the press but also the socialites of high society as a Wayne. She briefly remembers an encounter with a Calloway that left with the blonde man on the floor of the Wayne Manor ballroom clutching his nose and loudly cursing. If Raven was correct, Damian had simply rolled his sleeve back down and walked promptly outside to the balcony, ignoring the stares that followed. 

But there was no ill intent to her words now. 

“I’m serious. Mar’i seems to be a bit of an empath in my opinion.” 

“Hmm, maybe.” Damian says, although still unconvinced. Raven shrugs, then resists the urge to bite her lip, looking for a reason to cut their conversation short. She doesn’t want them to circle back to talking about her just yet. 

“I’ll go look for Kori, maybe since Mar’i is asleep they’ll want to put her down.” 

Damian nods, still patting the little girl in his arms in fear that she may wake again. Raven tears her gaze from him, if a bit reluctantly, and goes in search of her friend. 

Raven had always felt close with Kori, even as a younger teen when trust didn’t come easy. Kori tore down her walls just as quickly as Raven had tried to build them back up. She paved the bridge of friendship between them and after a while Raven stopped running from it. 

Now, with a little care and communication, they had grown together in a way that Raven thinks fondly of. 

Yet with the closeness that Raven feels with Kori now, she can’t quite bring herself to talk about what’s been bothering her. Not that she’s figured it out herself. To be fair she hasn’t really tried, and has been avoiding thinking about it more than anything. But dinner has suddenly brought it to the forefront, and the only thing that she now knows for certain is that Damian is at its centerfold. 

Raven finds Kori in the guest bathroom, kneeling over the tub on her knees as it’s filling with water. She gives her back a soft smile, feeling the exhaustion in her aura weighing on her. 

“Hey Kori,” Raven says gently to not startle her, “Mar’i fell asleep on Damian’s chest. I came to see if you wanted him to help you put her down in her crib.”

Kori’s relief from her words is immediate, “Oh yes that would be perfect. I’ll go get them, thank you Raven — and don’t think I didn’t hear you cleaning up in the kitchen. I hope you know we didn’t invite you over just to clean. Not that I’m not grateful of course, but you’re our guests.” 

Raven waves off her concern, “You know I didn’t feel obligated in the slightest, now go ahead and get Mar’i. I’m sure you and Dick are ready to settle down for the night.” 

“I’ve only slept five hours in the past three days. I. Am. Dying.” 

The graying circles under her eyes are more prominent now that Raven gives a closer look, although with her tangerine colored skin it looks more purple than anything. Still, she can’t help but feel a little bad for her.  

“Maybe you can get a night’s rest tonight.” Raven tells her with a hand on her shoulder in sympathy. It’s a fool’s hope really with a one-year old, but Raven still thinks it’s worth saying. 

“A woman can dream,” Kori snorts, then covers Raven’s hand with her own. “Thank you.” 

“Of course.” 

As Kori leaves Raven cuts off the water and pulls the plug. She has a feeling Mar’i will be skipping bath night as long as she sleeps soundly — and if Damian has anything to do with putting her down for the night, she will. 

The thought of him again disquiets her. With a quick flick of the bathroom light, she strays back towards the living room and decides to take a seat on the couch to wait for them. At this point she knows it’s better to just stay out the way. Cleaning was the best way she could think of to help. 

After a moment Damian walks back in alone while running a hand through the dark curls in his hair. 

“She’s down. Kori and Richard are already in bed too. I think it’s okay to leave now.” 

Raven nods and stands. Wordlessly she creates a portal back to their home at Titan’s tower. Even though they did disband years ago, it’s the only place that feels welcoming enough to stay. 

Slipping through a wormhole of her own power always raises gooseflesh on her arms. It pulses through her veins when they both step in and back out in the common room. 

Tonight it’s empty, but in a few days all of their friends will be in to visit just before the wedding. Somehow Raven had been roped into teleporting them all to the Grand Canyon the day of. She has a sneaking suspicion it’s more of an excuse for them to all be together in one place again — not that she minds. 

She admits that she misses it all. Wait —

“I thought Jason and Rose were supposed to be coming in early before everyone else, shouldn’t they be here by now?” Raven asks. 

The thud against a wall in a room further down the hallway is her answer. Damian scowls while Raven suppresses a smirk. “Well it’s a good thing there’s a guest masterbath in the bedroom I think they're in. We won’t have any awkward run-ins with each other.” 

Damian snorts, “I’m glad that you’re able to see the positive in this, because I can’t.” 

Raven hums in amusement, “There’s no other way to look at it now that they’re here.” She steps into the kitchen, “Tea?” 

“Sure, I could use some before I go out on patrol.” 

Starting the kettle is easy work, and the habitual movements help to ease her mind. Setting it on the stove, she reaches for two cups and grabs a packet of black tea and chamomile. Damian doesn’t have to tell her that black is his favorite, she just knows. 

Sometimes it surprises her by how easy it is to talk to Damian, and the irony of that thought is not lost on her when dinner was so… unexpected. 

“I’m thinking about inviting Kori and Rose to a girl’s night before the wedding. I think Kori needs a night out, and since Rose is here now I don’t want to leave her out.”

“Oh?” Damian raises his brow when he takes a seat on the stool in front of the island. “That could be… interesting.” 

The corners of her mouth quirk together as she turns the dial to turn the heat to high on the stovetop. 

“I just want her to be able to relax for a bit, and maybe talk with her about a few things…” her voice trails as she traces the marble in the countertop. “After tonight, do you think you could offer to watch Mar’i? Or even just go over to the house with Richard to keep him company. I’m sure —”

"Yes I can do that, just let me know what day.” 

  His quick response to her surprises her, and she thinks of calling him out on it but decides not to in the end. She’s sure he has his own reasons for helping too. 

“Thank you, hopefully Kori will be up for it. I’ll check in with her tomorrow after she’s had more sleep.”

“Good idea.” 

After that she brews in silence as Damian reviews the routes on his communicator for the night. They tend to alternate a couple of different pattern types, and have had to make some changes to include the docks for the next couple of weeks. Receiving an anonymous tip that a ‘deal’ was about to go down in the next week or so kept them extra alert. The details of that deal? Well neither of them have a clue, which is just a little worrisome. 

Raven pours Damian’s tea into a to-go tumblr when it’s finished, knowing that he’ll want to take it with him. 

She meets his eyes at the hand off, the brush of his fingers against hers sending a sharp tingle up her arm. 

“Thank you,” he says, already making his way to the boom tube off in the corner of the common room that had just been recently installed. 

Raven hesitates for a moment, the thought of the docks heavy on her mind, before she calls after him. 

“Damian.” she waits until he twists back to her. His domino mask is already covering his eyes. 

“... be careful.” 

He actually smirks. “No promises.” 

The flash of the boom tube declares his departure before she can respond. She rolls her eyes at his absence anyway. 

There goes the root of all my troubles, off to make even more trouble. 

Her hands cup her tea, taking a small comfort in the warmth it provides her. 

What am I going to do with you?

.

It turns out Kori had been itching for a night without Mar’i. 

Making plans had been easy enough. 

Rose had wanted to go bar-hopping, and Kori wanted to bring over her new crochet projects. Raven decided on a compromise — a night in the common room. With lots of alcohol. And pizza. 

It had taken both Rose and Kori awhile to warm up to each other and find some common ground, but after an hour or two everyone’s now laughing at one another in good fun. Raven’s sure the alcohol has more to do with it than anything else. 

“Okay, so maybe a night in isn’t so bad.” Rose says, bending forward for another slice. The three of them had ended up on the floor of the common room, pizza boxes and wine bottles alike spread out. The heated flush of Raven’s cheeks is the only indication of her intoxication. Well, that and the wobble walk back from the bathroom. She plops down next to Rose with a chuckle from her lack of grace, waving at Kori with encouragement to go for another glass. 

“I’m so glad we have Mar’i on formula now,” Kori tells them when she takes a sip straight from the bottle of sangria, “I’ve missed wine.” 

Rose makes a face, “What I’m hearing is don’t have babies.” She barks out a laugh when Kori reaches across the pizza boxes to smack her arm. 

“Mar’i is the best thing that’s ever happened to me. We’re just struggling with getting her on a sleep schedule. Once we do that I swear babies aren’t difficult at all. It was really nice of Damian to babysit with Dick tonight so that I could come over.”

Rose gives Raven a knowing look, “Yes it was, wasn’t it? I heard about dinner the other night. Mar’i seems to love Wayne.” 

“Yes definitely, he’s —” 

“Speaking of Wayne!” Rose cuts Kori off in favor of turning directly to Raven, “What is this weird thing-not-thing going on between the two of you? It’s driving me crazy staying with you in this damn tower.” 

In hindsight, Raven should have known that Rose would pick up on her sensitivity. At least some of it anyway. The interactions between her and Damian a few days after dinner had been amicable of course, but Damian had known she'd been acting strange here and there for a while. Raven responded in kind, retreating to what she knew best and avoiding him when she could. Solitude in the face of internal conflict will always be her greatest ally. 

Raven frowns into her glass, deciding to take another gulp of her own wine. “What do you mean? Nothing’s going on between us. We’re just —”

“Don’t even say ‘we’re just friends’. That’s bullshit. Have you seen the way he looks at you Raven? He makes you tea in the morning. Tea! And it’s your favorite too, I noticed.” 

“Oh that?” Kori says flippantly, “They’ve been doing that for years. I thought that finally they’d end up together when everyone else left the tower. Dick thinks it’ll be another year before Raven finally realizes that Damian’s completely in love with her.” 

Even through the haze of her growing intoxication, Raven gives them a glare. “That’s not true. As close as you’re implying we are, wouldn't he have said something to me? And besides, I like our friendship. A lot. I don’t want to jeopardize that.” 

“Damian’s been keeping it to himself for a reason Raven. Everyone knows how skittish you can be about feelings .” Kori bumps her shoulder with a laugh, then takes another swig from her bottle.

“It took us years for you to finally be comfortable even talking to me about things outside of Hero work or me and Dick.”

Raven knocks back the rest of her wine and decides that she needs another glass. “That’s different, you wrangled me into your friendship.” 

Kori looks affronted, mouth poised to argue when Rose cuts her off again, “Yeah I can definitely see that happening. I can picture it now, Kori cornering a young teenage and timid Raven to try and convince her to be best friends.” 

“It didn’t happen like that.” 

Both Raven and Rose stare at her in disbelief at the same time. Kori holds up her hands in surrender. “Okay, okay, it kind of happened like that but look how it turned out? Better than what I thought.” 

“Hmm, true.”

“So are you into him?” Rose directs the question to her. 

Raven rolls her eyes. “If I tell you I think he’s hot will you stop asking more questions?”

“No, so you do think he’s hot.” 

“I’m not blind Wilson.” 

Hot is more of an understatement in her opinion, and the new suit that Damian had opted to start wearing out on patrol was doing him many favors. Not that she would ever admit that to either of them. That would just be adding more fuel to the fire. 

“So have you fucked him yet?” 

“Rose!” Kori yells at her. 

“What? I’m just curious. Don’t tell me you guys have been living together, alone , for years and haven’t fucked.” 

“No actually, we haven’t.” Raven’s brows knit together as her stomach tightens from something she’s not sure. Annoyance from Rose asking deeply personal questions so casually? Or jealousy at the sudden intrusive thought that maybe Damian has, but with someone else? If so, did he bring her to the tower? 

“So you two haven’t even tried to just have a little fun. You know, do something casual? Like friends with benefits?” Rose asks her. 

“Do you know me? I don’t do casual.” 

“And neither does Damian,” Kori points out. 

“So maybe he’s dating someone.” 

Raven looks back at Rose with a dangerous look. The wine in her system doesn’t help hide her sudden disgust. She ignores the flip of her stomach that feels like nausea at the probability of Rose’s theory. 

“I’m done talking about this.” She says, tone final. “Why don’t we talk about how you and Todd broke in the guest bedroom last night. We could hear you two from the common room.” 

“Damn right, that shit was good too. We haven’t seen each other in months . Some of the best sex I’ve ever had.”  Raven smirks while Kori chokes on her bottle.

Jason and Rose are like fire and air. Mix them together and they become a fire whirlwind, burning everything in its path. It’s passionate, sure, but unpredictable and something that would always keep Raven on edge. 

“Dick and I have barely had sex since Mar’i’s been born,” Kori sighs, “It sucks.” 

“No alcohol or sex? Yeah, I’m never having kids.” 

Kori laughs, “Never say Never Rose, someone might come along and make you eat those words one day.” 

“Gods I hope not.” 

“Who knows, Jason might be working on that right now.” 

The room erupts in laughter, and the conversation only further derails after that. 

.

Raven wakes with a gentle hand on her shoulder. 

With a groan, she blinks groggily as her head spins from the alcohol still thrumming in her body. Somehow she had made it to the couch with Rose at the other end, passed out. 

Scattered pizza boxes litter the floor, one open and empty with the other with a couple pieces remaining. She doesn’t count but she does see a handful of empty wine bottles grouped together in the middle.

She doesn’t see Kori as she scans the room, but her eyes do land on the person that shook her awake. 

Damian. 

His quiet demeanor is a contrast from the clear amusement swimming in his eyes. 

“Where’s Kori?” Raven asks, the sleepiness still evident in her voice. 

“I helped her back home, Grayson has her.” Ah. That explains the fading light of the boom tube in the corner. 

“Oh okay, how’d it go with Mar’i?” she asks, accepting his hand to help her sit up. A wave of vertigo hits her, and she leans heavily on the arm of the couch. 

“It went well,” he takes another glance around the room, “how much did you drink?” he asks, taking note of the way she curls back into herself on the couch. 

“Too much.”

Another voice speaks up behind Damian. “Yeah that checks out, by the wine bottles on the floor I’m sure you’re all still plastered.” 

Jason. 

She turns her attention to the end of the couch where he scoops up Rose effortlessly. She doesn’t even move in the slightest. 

“You’re heavy as shit.” Jason talks down to her, but Raven can see the fondness in his eyes that betrays the truth. Rose isn’t heavy at all, and Jason’s enjoying having her around. 

“See ya Wayne, Raven. Gonna take this one to bed.” 

Damian spares him another glance, “Night.” 

“Don’t you want to sleep in your bed too?” he asks her, leaning over a little closer that makes her heart jump. 

The thought of getting up right now and walking anywhere is so unappealing that Raven burrows back further into the couch. 

“It’s okay, just leave me here. I’m sure I’ll be fine in the morning.” Intoxication didn’t last as long for a half-demon. 

She closes her eyes with a small yawn, sleep threatening to take back over, which is perfectly fine with her. That way she doesn’t have to dissect the way Damian is looking at her right now, another unreadable expression on his face. Reading him had never been easy, but now with her own emotions at war with themselves, they’ve gotten in the way of being able to determine his. 

There’s another moment of silence between them when Raven realizes that Damian is actually weighing the pros and cons of a decision. She opens her mouth, is about to ask him what’s wrong, when he stoops down closer to her. 

One of his arms weaves its way around her waist while the other settles under the back of her knees. 

A small squeak of surprise escapes her when he lifts her, cuddling her body close to his chest. Her arms wrap around his neck instinctually to help stay balanced in his own. 

“You’ll get a cramp in your neck if you sleep here,” he says simply, explaining away the question in her eyes. 

“I can walk to my bedroom if I wanted to Damian,” she reasons with him, though not exactly resisting as he continues to carry her down the hallway. 

“I know,” his breath is warm on her neck, “but you didn’t want to.” 

Raven holds her tongue, only because she knows he’s right — and he does too from the small smirk on his face. Thankfully he doesn’t say anything else when they get to her bedroom, and the door scans her for entry. 

It slides open and Damian steps inside. Raven suddenly feels uncomfortable with him seeing her room. It’s not like he hasn't seen it before. 

But he hasn’t, at least not now that she doesn’t even know what to think of him anymore. Not when she feels so… vulnerable. 

It’s cozy, and packed full of things but not messy. The shelves need dusting, and the books need to be re-stacked. It’s a show of her true nature — organized chaos. Damian doesn’t seem to mind. He only takes a short glance, probably out of her respect for privacy, and walks straight to her bed. 

He helps her slide under the covers, and is careful not to touch her more than necessary. It makes her heart squeeze. This barrier that seems to be growing between them since dinner is unwanted, but she feels helpless to fix. 

Damian hesitates as he leans over her, the closeness between them oddly intimate. She notices his dog tags have slipped out of his shirt, and she impulsively reaches for them. He watches quizzically as her fingers glide over the indentations. 

She doesn’t know if it’s the alcohol, or the sudden change in tension between them, but she finally decides to indulge in her curiosity. 

“What do they say?” she asks him. 

“laā yuhimmu kam ʾanta baṭīʾ ṭaalamā ʾannaka lan tatawaqqaf. It means ‘It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.’” 

The air feels heavy when Raven takes a breath, “and the other one?” 

Damian gives her a look, one that holds too many emotions for her to understand. 

“I’ll tell you what that one means another time.” 

.

For the first time in a long time Titan’s Tower is full of heroes. 

There’s an excited energy all around as the rooms fill with chatter as more and more people begin to show, dressed up for the wedding. Some people hadn’t seen each other in years. 

Raven’s content to keep to herself in one corner of the common room, exchanging pleasantries with the people who approach her. Damian is somewhere in the chaos, but she doesn’t try to look for him yet. Not when just thinking about him is causing her stomach to tie into knots. 

“Hey Raven, it’s good to see you!” 

Raven turns with a smile. “It’s good to see you too Donna, you look great.” Her black dress covered in sequins accentuated her curves in a way that made many heads turn at her arrival. That and her charming personality can make anyone she wants to fall to their knees in front of her. 

“Me? You look breathtaking, girl. Blue is such a good color on you.” 

Raven accepts the compliment with grace, something she’s been working more on doing. She slides a hand over her satin dress. The ends of it reach her toes, with a long slit up one side that gives everyone a slight tease of a long leg. Her black heels only emphasize the swell of her calf, the ankle strap a final touch. 

“Thank you. How are you?”

“Oh fantastic, work has been going well and crime is starting to slow down. Maybe because we’re finally getting some good weather and people want to enjoy it for a change. Who knows. How’s patrol in Jump going? I spoke with Wayne earlier and heard that there might be some kind of trade deal at the docks?” 

“Yeah,” Raven sighs, walking Donna to the kitchen in search of something to drink, “Last night there was some movement, but not much else going on. I’m starting to think it’s all a hoax but I don't know. I guess we’ll find out soon.” 

“Hmm, well there’s no need to worry about it right now. Wayne doesn’t seem too worried about it either so I’m sure it’ll be fine.” 

Raven holds back the retort that she isn’t worried, and that Donna’s the one who brought it up in the first place. 

“Yeah, punch?” Raven asks her, gesturing to the island in the middle of their kitchen. An assortment of light snacks filled the table, along with punch, tea, and water. Raven’s grateful that Kori came over earlier to help her and Damian put it all together. 

“Oh nice, thanks. So…” Donna trails, smiling sheepishly when she accepts the glass Raven hands her, “is Damian seeing anyone by chance?” 

Raven’s hold tightens on her own glass of water she poured for herself. “Not that I’m aware of.” 

“Oh good, I was thinking about asking him out later after the wedding. It’d be nice to catch up in Jump again — see what all’s changed.” 

“Go for it.” Raven clears her throat when Donna gives her an odd look at her curt tone, “I just mean I’m sure he’d… appreciate the company.” 

“Are you sure? Because if you’re —”

Raven’s not exactly sure what Donna is about to say but she doesn’t let her say it at all. “I’m not. You should ask him.” 

Donna blinks, then laughs, “It looks like some things haven’t changed after all. Don’t worry, I won’t.” She throws her a wink, “I’ll see if Roy is free tonight. I’ve always had a thing for red-heads anyway.” 

Raven deigns not to answer, instead taking a long drink of her water. Not because she really needs it but to keep her from revealing anything that might give her away. That and she doesn’t need to explain anything to anyone, not even Donna. 

A quick glance at the microwave tells her that it’s nearly time. She takes a breath, preparing to create a portal that will last long enough for everyone to get through. It will be tenuous at best, but it should work. Should. 

The sound of an announcement in the common room distracts her from her thoughts, especially when a small group starts making their way over to the boom tube.  

“They’re probably lining up for the boom tube since the wedding’s about to begin.” Donna says. 

“Boom tube? I thought that everyone was going through my portal?” 

“I’m not sure,” Donna looks as confused as she feels, “Damian’s been going around the room and assigning a specific time for everyone to go through. A lot of people are already gone.” 

Raven’s eyes dart to the common room that now looks a lot emptier than it had been about five minutes ago. 

“Looks like my time is in another minute,” Donna gives her a wave, “I’ll see you there.” 

Raven tells her bye, and stands there as the rest begin to file out, one by one until there’s only her and Damian. Her eyes meet him across the room before he whips his head in a signal to come join him. She does just that, taking the time to appreciate his suit. 

It’s Armani, of course, black and sleek, and it’s fitted to him perfectly. The pant legs do nothing to hide what’s beneath, and she feels her neck heat at the sight. One hand is tucked into his pocket while the other is holding the boom tube open for the both of them. As she walks closer she realizes that he’s wearing a darker navy blue tie — nearly identical to the color of her dress. 

Only when she reaches him does she ask him why they weren’t going by portal. 

“I didn’t want you to overexert yourself so I had a boom tube placed at the site of the wedding temporarily.” 

His gesture hits her hard, and she doesn’t know what to think when he reaches out his hand for hers. She places it in his delicately as he helps her step up inside. 

“I probably would’ve been fine, you know. I’m sure there wouldn’t have been much to worry about.” 

Damian steps in after her, his chest brushing up against her back as the door slides shut behind them. 

“Well now neither of us have to worry at all.” 

She turns to face him and smiles. 

“Thank you.” 

“Anything for you Raven.” 

Her eyes widen at his words and the blatant truth in his voice. Suddenly the air around them feels hot, and she leans back up against the wall, trying to put as much space in between them as possible. The proximity of him, the small space of the boom tube, his words — it all feels like too much. She feels the familiar tug of her body as they teleport — something that lasts only milliseconds. 

By the time they’re on the other side she’s breathing hard, not feeling like she’s getting enough air. The boom tube isn’t opening fast enough and it’s still too hot. She’s getting lightheaded and the pounding beat of her heart is only getting faster. The door begins to slide open, but before she can slip away Damian has a hand on her wrist. 

He pulls her back inside, shuts the door, and presses the button with the AC. The cool air helps a little, but there’s still a rising panic in her that she can’t tame. Raven has half a mind to slide down the wall to hug her knees but Damian grasps her shoulders, forcing her to face him. 

“Hey Raven, look at me. Look at me.” Emerald eyes search hers imploringly and she chokes back a sob. 

“I-I can’t do this, Damian, I don’t know what’s wrong with —”

“It’s okay. You’re okay,” he says. His words are gentle and soothing as his hands begin to rub her bare arms. Up and down, forcing her to stay tethered to the present. Not allowing her to retreat into her mind. 

“Just breathe, Raven. We’re not going anywhere until you breathe.” 

It takes a few minutes. He starts whispering to her in Arabic, much like the way he took care of Mar’i, and that thought puts a heavy weight on her chest. She breathes through it anyway knowing that the wedding will start at any moment, and she doesn’t want them to be late. When her breaths become more even Damian pulls her into his chest, wrapping her into a hug. 

“Whatever is going on is okay. I’m not going anywhere and neither are any of our friends. You’re okay, and it’s okay that you don’t know what you’re feeling.” 

Raven inhales a shuddering breath. 

She doesn’t know that she needs to hear him say all of those things so desperately until they’re already spoken. She takes a moment to cling to him, to thank him, before pulling back. Whatever Damian sees in her face must be enough for him to deem her capable enough to go back outside because he opens the door. Then he takes her hand again. 

“Watch your step,” he murmurs to her, helping her across the rocks to the venue. The sight of it is breathtaking. An archway is just a couple of feet away from a ledge that overlooks the entire Northern rim, and Raven sees that most of the chairs are already full of their friends. Garfield is already at the front, fidgeting with the cuff of his sleeve and trying not to bite a hole with his canines from worrying his lip in a nervous tic. 

Raven smiles, because even though it’s clear that he’s nervous, she can also tell that he’s happy. It’s all she’s ever wanted for him, and he deserves it. 

They find a seat in the back just before the ceremony begins. Damian puts his hand on the back of her chair, steadying her. For once she decides to lean into it, finding it to be a comfort. 

Terra’s dress suits her perfectly. It’s whimsical with long sleeves that hang off of her shoulder, with the length of her dress flaring out with floral and vine lace covering the bodice. Her hair is braided down her back with a string of hair pulled out and curled around her face. She’s gorgeous, and she can tell that Gar thinks so too. The love and excitement is pure in both of their eyes solely focused on each other. 

The ceremony doesn’t last long, but it is beautiful and genuine, and Raven stands and claps with everyone else as the newly weds are announced. Terra and Garfield practically race back down the aisle. 

It’s a welcoming sight. Raven smiles softly the entirety of the reception, even when meeting Jamie’s fiancée. From the moment she sees them she knows it’s a good match. 

“They look good together,” Damian says from beside her with two glasses of water in each hand. He gives one to her. 

“Yes, they do. I’m sure we’ll be getting another invitation soon.” 

“How are you feeling?” he asks her. 

“I’m okay actually. Thank you… for earlier.” She runs a nervous hand down the length of her dress to smooth it out. 

“You don’t ever have to thank me Raven.” 

He stays with her the rest of the night, which more than a few people notice, Donna included. When she smirks in Raven’s direction she doesn’t even scowl back. 

For some reason her mind is more at ease than it has been in weeks. 

.

The trade at the docks happens the next night. 

It’s around 3 o’clock in the morning whenever a small fishing boat slips up with the mooring line. Three people, dressed head to toe in black, get out with multiple coolers that look dubious. Mostly likely drugs . Then from the right, five more meet them on the dock, dressed the same. 

Damian signals to her from the other side of the building, and she nods her understanding. She presses the button on her cloak silently, alerting the JCPD of their location. 

They take them by surprise, but they recover quickly. A few of them barricade behind barrels while Damian starts to fight off the three that are scrambling back inside the boat. 

It’s not until Raven hears the first gunshot when she realizes they all have weapons. 

It takes her another moment to realize the gun had been aimed at her whenever the sharp pain flares at her side, and her hand presses it. When she brings it back up to her face shakily it’s covered in blood. 

Then more start to ring out, and Raven drops to her knees. She remembers that Damian is on the other side of the group of thugs still fighting on the boat. He hadn’t seen her get shot, still hasn’t had the time to even look in her direction. She tosses up a quick shield just before bullets rain down in his direction. They bounce off her shields uselessly and Raven releases a breath she doesn’t realize she’s holding. 

Another wave of her power throws everyone in the crossfire back. Some hit the water with a loud splash while others scrape up against concrete away from the docks. Damian takes advantage of the momentary distraction, apprehending everyone still on the ground with quick, practiced motions. 

Raven attempts to stand, but stumbles back to her knees. She feels around the wound, her finger prodding for the bullet that’s still lodged inside. She bites back a cry at the pain, her teeth gritting. It will need to come out before she can heal herself, but she’s starting to lose more blood than she’s comfortable with. She takes off her cloak. The material is too strong to tear so she wraps the entire thing around her waist anyway. It will have to do. 

As Damian pulls the last one out of water and throws him on the ground, black spots are beginning to dance in her vision. 

She can hold on until he finishes the job. They’ve been looking into this lead for weeks, she won’t ruin it all by letting him know that she’s bleeding out. I can make it. 

Squatting is no longer an option. Raven finds herself forced to lay down on the concrete, her hand tucked into her side to staunch as much of the blood as she can. The pain heightens to a point that makes the rest of her body feel numb. 

She clings to consciousness as long as she can, until she’s sure that Damian has arrested them all. The police will be here at any moment and can take over. 

By the time Damian finally looks up and is searching for her the adrenaline wears off. All she feels is pain, so whenever unconsciousness calls back out to her she answers. 

He finds her as she’s losing the battle. 

“Shit, shit. Raven!” 

She’s fading rapidly when he reaches her. One hand cradles the back of her head while the other presses into her wound. She hisses weakly. 

His voice sounds like it’s underwater. 

“Hold on Raven, not yet,” he presses on her wound more insistently, the pain causing her to stay conscious. Then he’s pulling out gauze and hydrogen peroxide and medical scissors from his belt. 

His words are rushed and thick with emotion, “I need you to stay awake, you’re losing too much blood. You have to portal us to the med-bay now. You won’t make it if you don’t.” 

It sounds like too much, every breath is more agonizing and tiresome than the last. 

“ Please habibti, you have to try.” 

Her eyes open at the pleading in his voice.

With her remaining strength she does her best to meet his request, and portals them back to the tower. 

The look in his eyes is the last thing that she sees before she drowns in a sea of darkness. 

Fear.

.

There’s no noise when she wakes. 

She’s in her healing trance, hovering above the hospital bed. By the familiarity of the metal walls she knows that they made it to the med-bay. A sweep of the room also tells her that she almost didn’t make it. Blood covered just about every instrument. The bullet lays in a tray beside her. She looks down at herself, noticing for the first time that she’s not wearing anything except for a pair of sweatpants. Her entire upper body is covered in gauze. Specks of blood dot where she had been shot. She won’t need to change it again fortunately, her healing trance had made sure of that. 

Her eyes continue to scan the room until she sees Damian, hunched over in a chair right beside her. His head is in his hands, not yet knowing that she’s awake. His hair is askew. She imagines that he probably ran his hands through it over and over. He’s still wearing his uniform, covered in her blood. Guilt sweeps through her, knowing that she’s the cause of so much worry. 

“Damian,” she whispers. 

He jolts upright so fast that the metal chair falls backwards. He doesn’t care, his eyes are on hers as he grasps her hand. 

“Raven, you made it,” he chokes on his words. “Do you need me to change your dressing?” 

“No I don’t think so.” she tells him softly, then lowers herself on the bed to lay down. He helps her adjust. “I think I’ll be sore for a while, but I’m okay. Thank you for saving me.” 

He sighs deeply, “You scared me Raven. Never do that again. Never wait to tell me if you’ve been hurt. You could have died. You almost did .” 

“I know,” she whispers, squeezing his hand, “I’m sorry.” 

They’re silent for a few minutes, with Damian stroking her hand with his fingers. She lets him, figuring that he needs the touch to remind himself that it was just a close call, nothing more. 

“Did the JCPD get all the arrests?” she asks, breaking the silence. 

“Yeah,” Damian says, pinching the bridge of his nose with his other hand, “They found fentanyl in the coolers. Enough to OD the entire city. Interrogations are going on right now. They think they’re just pawns in a much bigger drug deal.” 

“That makes sense,” she says, chewing on his words, “Looks like almost dying was worth it.” She jokes darkly. 

“No,” He shoots her a sharp glare, “Almost losing you was not worth it Raven. It will never be worth it. When will you realize that?” 

The veracity in his words is like a slap in the face. She recoils at them. “I’m sorry Damian, I was just trying to do the right thing.” 

He breathes deep, seemingly at war with himself on how to respond. He settles for acceptance. “I know you did, I’m not going to say that it was okay, because it wasn’t. But it happened, and at least you’re here. Just don’t do that again.” 

She swallows the lump in the back of her throat. “Okay.” 

“Get some rest, I’m glad you’re okay.” 

“Thank you Damian, I am too.” 

.

Damian isn’t there when she wakes, but this time she’s in her own bed. She smiles softly, knowing that Damian probably wanted her to be more comfortable, but also didn’t want to intrude in her space. 

A familiar feeling blossoms in her chest that Raven wants to pull back down, but she doesn’t. She lets it stay, and the longer it does, the more she realizes it’s not as scary as she thinks it is. 

It grows with each thought of the past few weeks. All the little moments that Raven had ignored, now resurfacing with a renewed vigor. It pumps through her veins, filling her completely. 

It all hits her at once. 

She doesn’t know how she could have been so oblivious to it all. 

Maybe she did see it, but favored ignorance so that things wouldn’t have to change. 

But change happens whether I like it or not. 

She gets up, pushing past the aching muscles in her side to get dressed. Confronting her feelings is long overdue, and she can’t afford to put it off any longer. Not with the thought of dying without telling Damian about how she feels. 

She finds him outside, looking out across the bay. Laps of water splash gently against the rocks. The wind whips her hair as she draws closer. If Damian notices her presence he doesn’t acknowledge it. She can see that he’s deep in thought with the far away look on his face, brows knitted together. 

She sits down beside him. 

He meets her stare when she looks at him. She takes a breath, it’s now or never. 

“You love me,” she states, looking into his eyes for confirmation. His expression doesn’t change, he’s not surprised. He just stares right back. 

“Yes,” he says simply. 

Raven sucks in a breath, “Why didn’t you tell me?” 

“You weren’t ready for me to tell you,” he says as his eyes soften, “It would have scared you.” 

“That’s — true,” she admits with a frown, “I’m still scared, but, I love you too.” 

He smiles, “I know.” 

“You do?” 

“Yes, but that’s okay. I didn't mind waiting for you to figure it out.”  

She laughs then, bewildered by him. The wind reveals the dog tags underneath his shirt, and Raven decides to ask again. 

“Will you tell me what the other one means now?” 

He recites to her first in Arabic. A poem. 

“في أيّام الصيف.. أَتمدّد على رمال الشاطئ وأمارس هوايةَ التفكير بكِ.. لو أنّني أقول للبحر.. ما أشعر به نحوكِ لترك شواطئَه.. وأصدافَه.. وأسماكَه.. وتبعني”

Then he holds her stare when he translates, “ In the summer I stretch out on the shore And think of you. Had I told the sea What I felt for you, It would have left its shores, Its shells, Its fish, And followed me.”

With tears in her eyes she reaches for him so that she can rest her forehead against his. 

“I love you.” 

He responds to her in kind, his mouth whispering against her lips for the first time. 

“I love you too.”

[enjoy-the-butterf1ies]

Everywhere, Everything-

CL16 (Chapter 4/?)

Pairing: Charles Leclerc × female!reader

Series Summary: In which a rising singer gets her biggest break yet; opening at the Austin Grand Prix. All record companies would have their eyes on her- along with a certain monegasque driver.

Trope: Slow burn with a mix of other tropes in there (He fell first, one bed, roommates, all the good ones!)

Chapter Summary: Plane rides and conversations spark new and confused feelings inside you.

Warnings: Cussing, reader is clueless, extremely quick and rushed chapter 🫣

“Oh my god, Charles,” You said, stuffing your mouth with a rich chocolate cheesecake. “This is delicious. I take back everything I said about private jets. Screw the environment. I literally want to marry this dessert.” Charles couldn’t help but laugh at you. You were only halfway joking anyways.

You two had boarded a private plane to go to Mexico earlier that morning. After a lot of struggling, he finally pulled you out of the hotel bed to make it to the plane on time. You were a force to be reckoned with when your sleep schedule was fucked. He quite literally had to drag you at one point, but that’s long forgotten. All you could focus on now was the plane food.

“Is this what being rich is like? Sign me up.” You licked your lips and rubbed your stomach happily. You leaned back in the cozy chair and curled your feet up close. Okay. As nice as it was to be in this position, you were petrified. You could put on a brave face in front of Charles but in truth, you had no idea what you were getting yourself into. Private gets, trip to Mexico, fancy food, expensive hotels… Not to mention you still had to perform at the rest of the Grand Prix this season.

You silently kicked yourself for agreeing to it.

Nonetheless you still smiled and thanked Charles once again for everything. After all, he’s the reason your dreams may come true.

But to him, it seemed like no big deal.

You watched him shake his head and shrug. “No, no. No more thanking me.” He chuckled. You scoffed. And he dramatically put a hand over his heart and gasped. “Sassy today, are we?”

“I have to thank you,” You protested. “How can I not? I promise I’m gonna pay you back someday, for everything. This is so much bigger than you realize.”

Charles grinned, dimples prominent on his cheeks. “Non, non,” He ticked his finger back and forth. “It’s just a favor for a friend.” Friend. The word echoed in your brain more times than you’d like to admit.

“Whatever you say frenchie,”

“You do realize that term is incredibly offensive? I’m not french.” He huffed like a child. “I’m monegasque.”

You laughed and tossed a straw wrapper you had balled up previously at him. He chuckled and fought back, tossing plastic cup which you easily dodged. The more time you spent with Charles, the more comfortable you two had grown, which is saying a lot because it had only been a few days. The universe is funny in that way, you think. It puts two people together and sometimes they just click. It seemed to be the same with you and Charles.

Soon after the first (and probably last) straw paper war, a flight attendant came to take your plate. She smiled kindly at you, her gaze drifting to Charles as she lifted the silverware. “Is there anything else I can get for you guys?” She asked, her tone sweet. You weren’t keen on the way her eyes wandered over Charles more than once. Especially when her hands wandered dangerously close to his as she grabbed his wine glass. Taking a deep breath to think clearly, you realized you were just protective of your friend. Nothing wrong with that.

“No, thank you, I am good,” He responded, and she nodded her head and flashed an award winning smile. He looked over at you. “Do you want anything else Y/N?”

You froze for a second when he caught your gaze, but quickly regained composure. “No, thank you,” You smiled at the flight attendant, breaking away from Charles’ intense stare. She nodded, glancing at Charles one last time, but his focus was hardened on you. The attendant walked away, her heels clacking against the ground. It thankfully filled the awkward silence you felt. “So, looks like someone’s got a secret admirer?” You wiggled your eyebrows at Charles.

He blinked, confused. “Who?”

Your eyebrows raised in shock. He must be oblivious. “The flight attendant,” You gave him a crooked smile, shock and confusion filled his features. “She was checking you out completely. And she’s cute, maybe you should get her name?”

He smiled but it was clearly forced. “I didn’t even notice.” He said honestly.

You two sat in silence for a minute or so, Charles scrolling through his phone. He seemed completely unbothered by the flight attendant’s advances. Then again, he probably got a lot of attention from women. He’s probably immune to it by now. If that’s even possible.

You looked out the window. The plane soared through the clouds, creating a scene out of a painting. The sun peaked through just enough to create an orange glow among the sky. You took a deep breath, imagining the upcoming days. It didn’t feel real. You were set to play Saturday after qualifying. Mexico was a beautiful track, not quite your favorite, but you knew the energy would be incredible. That is, if you could make it to Saturday. You were sure you were going to pass of a heart attack soon enough.

“Are you going to watch the race?” Charles voice broke you out of your thoughts.

“What?”

“This race weekend,” He suddenly got shy. “I know you’re going to be focused on your music and everything, but are you going to watch the race this weekend?”

You smiled widely. What an odd question. “Of course I am Charles, everything from free practice to race day I’m gonna be there.” You assured him. His smile grew. “It’s my first real Grand Prix weekend. Wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

His shoulders slumped slightly and you wondered what you could’ve said to change his demeanor. His smile remained unwavering though, and he stretched. You had to stop yourself from looking at his biceps as he laid his hands behind his head. “You’ll be watching from the Ferrari paddock, yes?”

“I was actually thinking of the Redbull paddock,” You joked. Charles though, didn’t seem to understand, and you could see his eyebrows furrow. His eyes widened in fear and you nearly fell back in your chair from laughing. “Oh my god Charles no, I was joking. Of course I’ll be cheering for Ferrari. I’ll be cheering for you.” That last sentence slipped out faster than you could stop it.

You couldn’t help but notice the way his cheeks reddened at that, and you slapped yourself inside your mind. How could you possibly say that? You definitely made him uncomfortable. You cleared your throat, sweating. “Are you nervous for the race?” You asked, hoping he would forget all about this conversation by this time tomorrow.

Charles bit his lip in thought. Your eyes focused on his mouth, the way his teeth rolled over his bottom lip almost made you crazy. You forced yourself to look away, ashamed. This had been about the 5th time today you had to break your gaze away from him and you had no idea why. “Truly I’m worried about the team’s strategies, this season the pit stops have been awful and team communication has completely gone out the window.” He had to chuckle at the absurdity. You assumed if he didn’t laugh he would cry. “Nevertheless I have high hopes, as long as I go into it determined then I’m bound to come out feeling good yeah?”

You smiled at him, seeing the way his body physically relaxed at the sight. “I’m sure you’ll do great Charles, you’re really talented despite the cards you’ve been given,” You said. He nodded. “Whatever you do though, never let racing change you.”

He raised an eyebrow, lost. “Racing is who I am. It’ll never change me.” Is all he said to that. You pursed your lips together and sucked in a light breath. You wondered if you were overstepping by saying any of this. “Besides,” He grinned widely at you. “I’ll have a lucky charm there this time, and an awesome hype up playlist.”

Your heart swelled. The corners of your mouth twitched upward. “Oh yeah?”

“Yeah, absolutely,”

⊱ ────── {.⋅ ✯ ⋅.} ────── ⊰

“Dude how do you afford the nicest hotels in the history of the world?” You asked Charles, gaping eyes around the hotel lobby. You probably stuck out like a sore thumb, the way your mouth was wide at the sight of the shining chandelier or the way you stuttered when the doorman welcomed you.

The plane ride had been long but you enjoyed every second, you couldn’t deny that. Charles company was incredible. Not only were the conversations special, but you kicked his butt in Mario-Kart and forced him to watch a horror movie. He screamed like a little girl and made you swear to never tell anyone. You agreed, but you were never let him forget about it.

Charles chuckled at you. “Close your mouth, a fly is gonna land in there,” He teased and you flushed with embarrassment.

“Yeah, yeah, let’s just get to our hotel room Frenchie. My arms are tired from holding this suitcase.”

“I’m not french!”

A kind young lady eventually showed the two of you to the hotel room. You guys had agreed to share another room for easy accommodation, plus you were very unsure of staying in a hotel room by yourself in a country you had never visited. Charles was more than okay with that, eager even. He was a very kind friend, always looking out for you.

“Enjoy your love weekend!” The sweet lady said to the two of you, handing Charles the room key. “A beautiful couple, you are.”

“WHAT?” The two of you cried in unison, laughing awkwardly at her words. You wondered what could’ve possibly made her assume the two of you were a couple. On a romantic weekend, at that. Charles shook his head and placed a hand over his heart. “Thank you but we are just friends,” He chuckled, eyebrows furrowed together in embarrassment. He refused to meet your eye, instead fidgeting uncomfortably.

Friend. There was that word again, bouncing back and forth in your mind like an annoying ear worm.

The lady’s mouth opened in a small ‘o’ shape, clearly confused. Flustered, she apologized and the three of you laughed it off. Charles made sure to deeply thank her, tipping her a decent amount for showing the way to the room. Once again, you were amazed by his kindness.

Charles slid the key card into the door, and opened the hotel room. “Oh, shit,” He muttered, pausing at the door. You ran directly into his back.

“Charles, what the hell-“ You grumbled, about to give him a piece of your mind.

“I guess I know why she assumed we were a couple now,” He said, carefully stepping out of the way to let you into the room.

Your eyes widened at the sight.

There was only one bed.

[recurring-polynya]

@fluffnflightillustrations is always asking me for pie crust tips and I never know what to do say because I just..do it. I am there and the food processor is there, and then it is pie crust. Anyway, I was making a pie today and I decided to document the process for posterity.

This recipe is based on J. Kenji Lopez-Alt's food processor piecrust recipe. (he was the same guy who invented the vodka pie crust method but doesn't own the copyright to it, so he can't ever talk about it. Anyway, this one is fine). I've made it a couple of times a year for, I don't know, over a decade.

Here are some facts about pie crust to keep in mind:

Flakiness is caused by pockets of butter surrounded by flour. That's the goal here.

Every pie crust recipe in existence includes dire warnings about how it will turn into particle board if you put in too much water. In one sense, yes, the goal is to use as little water as possible. On the other hand, if you're having trouble getting it to come together, just add some damn water. Every homemade pie crust I have ever made was a million times better than a store-bought pie crust, even if I did add 2T.

If your pie crust comes out bad or you don't notice a difference between store bought and homemade, there is no shame in store bought pie crusts! Life is about figuring out what is worth it to do from scratch and what isn't and that varies from person to person.

I am not a baking expert, I am just a girl who tries stuff s

HERE'S MY METHOD:

Ingredients:

2 1/2 cups (12.5 ounces; 350 grams) all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons (25 grams) sugar

1 teaspoon (5 grams) kosher salt

2 1/2 sticks (10 ounces; 280 grams) unsalted butter (kept in fridge), cut into 1/4-inch pats

6 tablespoons (3 ounces; 85 milliliters) cold water

tl; dr version: 1. Combine two thirds of flour with sugar and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse twice to incorporate. Spread butter chunks evenly over surface. Pulse until no dry flour remains and dough just begins to collect in clumps, about 25 short pulses. Use a rubber spatula to spread the dough evenly around the bowl of the food processor. Sprinkle with remaining flour and pulse until dough is just barely broken up, about 5 short pulses. Transfer dough to a large bowl. 2. Sprinkle with water then using a rubber spatula, fold and press dough until it comes together into a ball. Divide ball in half. Form each half into a 4-inch disk. Wrap tightly in plastic and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before rolling and baking.

✨Verbose Version✨:

Getting Ready to Get Ready The first thing I do is measure out the water in a glass measuring cup and stick it in the freezer.

Next, I cut my butter my butter into pats and spread them out on a plate and stick those in the freezer, too.\

You're just trying to get everything cold, not freeze it. This should probably take about 10 minutes? I take this opportunity to clean up my work area and get out my food processor.

Okay, Let's Do It Here's my food processor. It is big and beautiful and I got it for free because a friend of mine who liked to buy himself things moved across the country and didn't want to take it. I think fondly of him whenever I use it.

Combine two thirds of flour (I did 9.5 oz) with sugar and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse a few times to mix it all up. Did I mention that I always bake by weight? You should always bake by weight.

Spread butter chunks evenly over surface, and pulse. I do this in a 3-4 rounds because I want the butter to get evenly covered in flour and not stick to other butter chunks. I toss a few in, pulse a few times, toss a few more, until they're all in there.

At this point, the recipe says "Pulse until no dry flour remains and dough just begins to collect in clumps, about 25 short pulses." First off, it takes a lot more than 25 for me. Second, it never really begins to collect in clumps, it just gets kinda sandy. It doesn't matter, just move on.

Use a rubber spatula to spread the dough evenly around the bowl of the food processor. Sprinkle with remaining flour and pulse until dough is just barely broken up, about 5 short pulses. Transfer dough to a large bowl.

Sprinkle with water then using a rubber spatula, fold and press dough until it comes together into a ball. I drip in some water, fold and press for a bit, drip in some more, fold and press again, etc. At first, I try to use the spatula (and not my hands) as much as possible. Towards the end I switch over to using your hands. It takes a while to start sticking together, but it will! Just keep pushing on it!

According to Kenji, you should not need to add any more water. I almost always need to add more water. You can put additional water in the freezer, if you want, but I just use room-temp. Today, it took 1 extra T. To be honest, I probably didn't need to, but ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Divide ball into two. If I am making a double pie crust, I split them unevenly, because the bottom crust needs to be bigger than the top. Today, I'm making a pecan pie, which just needs a single crust, so I'm dividing it into half and saving one of the halves for later.

Form it into a rough circle and flatten. I wrap it loosely in plastic, and then roll it on the edge like a wheel, and flatten it further so I get a nice disk.

Refrigerate at least 2 hrs and up to 3 days. (or you can freeze for up to 3 months) That's the end of part one, part two will continue after the chilling.

[stitchkiss]

tell me a story about u

bestie you know more of my stories than anyone and you still want more?? i can’t believe you aren’t sick of them yet lmaoo. i’ll tell you a few from that liam-esque list i sent you a while back.

GATHER ROUND KIDS!! STORYTIME!!

story 1: idek when this was probably when i was like 13 but anyway we were gardening n shit and i was by all the tools takin a break bc i planted like 20 zucchini seeds (bad idea in hindsight all we ate that summer was zucchini) and i was tired. so i look down and there’s a garden hoe next to me and i’m getting flashbacks to my childhood when i watched tom and jerry obsessively and i think “huh. i wonder what would happen if i stepped on it” guess what happened. smacked me right in the face the second i stepped on it. blood went everywhere. face, clothes, tools, soil. brother is laughing. sister rushing for towels. mom making sure my nose wasn’t broken. dad wishing i was never born. my face messy with tears n blood n sweat. i consider this a win bc not only did i get to live out a childhood fantasy but i didn’t have to garden for the rest of the day!

story 2: i am. dumb. and impulsive. and i think movie magic applies to me. all this, but i’m 9 years old. we had just moved and a perk was that a golf cart came w the house. so when, for reasons i can’t remember, there was a dirt hill in my backyard i knew EXACTLY what to do with it bc i had just watched wreck it ralph AND played a mario kart tournament the night before so i know a ramp when i see one. see where im going w this? when i saw the dirt hill i got on the golf cart and fuckin floored it. the thing is, i didn’t know that the dirt wasn’t packed in, so it was too soft for the tires. i did not make it over. the cart tipped over and i fell out. it almost crushed me. the funniest part ab this is when my mom came over to check on me she was like “i saw you speed off and i KNEW what you were doing” i wasn’t allowed to try it again.

3. i had a goldfish named herbert. i won him at a festival when i was like 12 and he came in a plastic baggie like from finding nemo. so i brought him home and i quickly realized i had no place to put him bc he was my first (and only) fish. so i threw out these flowers my mom had in this really big vase and i put him in it instead. during this time i didnt have a phone bc i accidentally broke it a few days before when i was jump roping and had it in my pocket and it flew out. SO i didn’t know what to feed herbert bc no google and neither did anyone else and they didn’t want to help me raise my new son so i had to figure this out by myself. do you know what i fed him instead of fish food? ritz crackers. how tf was i supposed to know the salt from the crackers would kill him. the concept of “freshwater fish” eluded me at the time. i woke up the next day and he was floating at the top of the vase. but the worst part of this story? i was preparing a small, intimate funeral for herbert bc he deserved nothing less and i took him out of the vase and put him on a plate. then i left for like 5 minutes to make sure my brother and sister were going to be in attendance and to throw some rose petals in the toilet bc if i was gonna flush him it might as well be beautiful. but. when i went back to the kitchen to get herbert, my cat was eating him.

4. last story! my cousins and i are really close and we do this thing when all of us are available and we call it a version of guy’s grocery games based on who the judge is that night (we replace the g with our initial) where we each make food but change it up in a creative way. this time was pizza. i teamed up w one of my cousins and we decided to make a pizza based off the fast food chain raising canes. so we go to canes and order a bunch of chicken and fries and bread and we even got a cup full of canes sauce for $5 and we also bought a premade pizza dough. the pizza was DIVINE and i’d eat it again but be warned you need pepto bismal on hand if you eat it bc it’ll rly fuck up ur insides. but, even tho it was the best invention ever, we didn’t fucking win. what did we lose to, you ask? a ramen pizza. my brother and his gf made it w the recipe I SENT HIM!! but the thing is, this recipe called for soy sauce and my cousin is allergic to soy. my brother asked me for his allergy list in preparation and i forgot to put it on there. so my cousin was ab to take a bite when my brain connected the very very important dots and i smacked it out of his hand.

hope u enjoyed all that!!

[doctorguilty]

Ugh

My grandma unloaded the whole dishwasher while coughing open mouth nonstop like she sounds sick, I pray it's just like allergies though, but it's not like this is a one off thing either both of my grandparents are like this like they don't cover their mouths for any reason ever, also yesterday my grandma was making some meal with raw chicken and it was like Texas chainsaw massacre on the counter and in the sink there was raw chicken pieces and juice everywhere including the "clean" dishes, my sister tried to clean everything the best she could, but it's just so stressful like I try really hard to keep my things separate, I like to think if they go through the dishwasher they're sanitary but that's not always guaranteed because, gestures to the above words, sometimes behind my back my grandpa will not put my cutlery (blatantly mine, is bright colored plastic for children) in the dishwasher at all and just rinse it and put it back and i don't even know why like forks don't take up so much space in the dishwasher, he does it with the regular silverware too sometimes which is gross but I keep begging him to stop "hand washing" anything of mine PLEASE just put it in the dishwasher, if I can't trust anything I use paper plates and plastic cutlery and solo cups, but it's exhausting, to keep up, and keep buying those things, and even then there's no guarantee I'm safe cause again like what can you even do when cough/sneeze shrapnel is all over the counters and fridge and everything, and it's still crazy to me that when I had strep everyone was suddenly more careful than ever to not get sick from me, when I'm the one most vulnerable, it feels like just days after I was done with the antibiotics I feel congested and shitty again like that's really just my default state, while I was taking them I felt pretty great, which I'm gonna mention to my doctor I think like uhhh that seems kinda weird to me

Anyway I just wish I could move cause like i barely get to leave the house yet I'm still not even getting the At Least I'm less exposed to pathogens, it's the opposite of having your cake and eating it too, but! I can't afford it and I'm not mentally willing to do any roommates anymore my ptsd from a million things is too strong and it doesn't help that when I visited my partner their sister triggered all of that and CONTINUES to be insane like lying to her family making up stories about things I allegedly did while my partner was at work like I'm so scary and the adults just believe it and I'm like,,, I was asleep, but that's very reminiscent of insane shit in the past like one of the people I lived it in real time messaging a mutual (their now ex) friend that I was yelling and throwing a fit and being crazy when I was actually in the living room with my headphones on watching tuca and bertie,, I just want to live alone or with my partner (and we're working on that but it's rough between their lease stuff and immigration things) but if I could just afford to live alone in a shitty apartment I'd be fine but these days even the cockroach and bedbug infested studios are like $900+ /mo no utilities included no washer dryer MUST make >2.5x rent to be approved

[syddsatyrn]

Piece of your Action (Eddiexfemreader)

☆Pairing: - Eddie Munson x Fem Reader

☆Song: Piece of your action by Mötley Crüe

☆Warnings: Fluff, swearing, drug use, cigarettes, bullying, Characters are all 18+

Minors DNI, scram!

☆Words: 2k

Chapter 2: Looks that Kill (EddiexFemreader)

☆Summary: Moving to Hawkins wasn't easy. What do you even do for fun in this little down? So boring. Until you meet a long haired misfit in front of the video store. Maybe this place isn't so boring after all.

☆Notes: I'm baaaack. Didja miss me? I now present to you my Eddie Munson hyperfixation. I finished Strangers things and I was HOOKED. This is a series so check back for the next chapter.

“Honey, can you grab the boxes for the kitchen?” Julie shouted. Your mother is definitely putting you to work. You groan and grab the first box you see in the truck labeled “Kitchen”. The box made a loud thud as you dropped it on the floor. “Be careful! You’ll break your grandmother’s dishes!” She scolded.

“Whatever…” You scoffed. It’s not like you wanted to move here anyways. Your dad got a new job and your Aunt convinced your mom to move to Hawkins. Which is 6 hours away from your hometown. You grab another box and head back inside.

“If you want to take a break you can.” Julie says while putting away cups and plates. Before you could finish your sentence, you're already out the door with a cigarette in your mouth. “I really wish you’d quit those!” She shouts as you leave.

You take a seat on the curb and inhale the smoke, and exhale the stress. “What even is there to do in this little town?” You wondered. You pick at some of the fraying patches on your jeans absentmindedly. Taking another drag every couple of minutes. “This is totally bogus.” You say under your breath and put the cigarette out on the curb. You might as well go to your room and get situated.

You had already put up a bunch of posters. Iron Maiden, Dead Kennedy’s, Slayer, the Misfits, all your favorite bands. You take off your patched up denim jacket and toss it on the floor haphazardly. The day is almost over, you fall backwards and flop onto your bed to stare at the ceiling. “I hope this town isn't filled to the brim with country bumkin hillbillies.” You think to yourself. The grumbling noise of your stomach is enough to wake you from your thoughts.

“I brought home Chinese!” Bill says as he walks through the door carrying a couple of plastic bags with to-go containers. You spring from your bed and head downstairs, you can already smell it.

“I knew that would get you to come out of your lair.” Dad says with a grin.

“I’m hungry.” You retort and stick your tongue out. “You’re always hungry.” He jokes and bumps your shoulder. After the table was cleared, your mother handed you a plate filled with delicious take out. In a matter of seconds you're wolfing down your food like you haven't eaten in days.

“Slow down!” Your mom says with a slightly disgusted look on her face. After chugging the glass of water on the table, you apologize under your breath. “Soooo….” Julie starts and you're already rolling your eyes. “...I was thinking we could go tour some campuses next week? Maybe start putting in an application or two?” She asks with a smile.

Your parents have been hounding you to get into college. It's only been a year since you graduated high school, why rush? School was always a huge pain. Everyone makes fun of you for the way you dress or they are afraid of you. The bullying got so bad you had to change schools, and how could we forget the time you beat up the schools quarterback in the lunchroom. Somehow, you always manage to have decent grades, you just don't play nice with others.

“Mom, you know I’m taking a break from school.” You remind her before shoving more noodles into your mouth. “We’ve already had this conversation.” You say with your mouth full.

“You know your mother just wants to make sure you get a proper education.” Bill chimes in, attempting to keep this conversation a peaceful one.

“I already told you guys I’m taking a couple years before I dive back into that hell.” You retort and Bill snorts before taking another bite.

“Please don't swear at the dinner table…” Julie sighs with disappointment.

Your eyes roll so far back in your head you swear you could see your brain twitch. Your plate is finished and you stand up abruptly. “Mom, this is the third time this week you’ve brought up college, quit while you're ahead. I'm tired, I'm going to bed.” You say with what your mother calls “a tone”. You rinse your plate, set it in the sink and begin to head back upstairs.

“Y/N we are not done with this conversation…” Mom shouts

“Yes we are.” You shout back and shut your door. Julie and Bill just give each other concerned looks.

Your jeans drop to the floor and you change into some cotton shorts and a worn out Slayer band tee. Then begin digging in your backpack for a tin that used to contain mints. When you find it, you let out a sigh of relief and pop the top open. A pre-rolled joint you’ve been saving is calling your name.

After retrieving the lighter from your jeans, you slide the window open carefully, you don't want your parents to hear. You take a seat on the roof and look up at the night sky. “The stars are brighter here…” You think to yourself. The breeze was cool and the neighborhood was quiet, not a single peep. So you carefully light the joint and take a few heavy puffs.

Here you are, daydreaming again. You lay back and stare at the sky while you enjoy your reward. You were almost finished with the joint when you heard loud music in the distance. It shakes you from your thoughts and you sit up. A dark colored van speeds through your neighborhood blaring some pretty sick metal tunes.

You watch as it drives off, maybe this place isn't completely full of country folk. Suddenly, a few of the neighbors porch lights flicker on, it looks like the van woke a few people up. You quickly put the joint out and crawl back in through your window. What if someone sees you? They would most definitely tell your mom, and she hates when you hang out on the roof.

You turn off your lamp and crawl under the covers. It's time to put this day behind you and get some rest. You fall asleep wondering if you’ll see the van again. One could only hope.

Day Two in Hawkins

You wake up to the sound of knocking on your bedroom door. “Y/N, it’s time to get up! I don't want you wasting the day away in bed.” Julie is always a morning person. You groan and pull the covers over your head. Mom opens the door and greets you with a bright smile. “C’mon, you can't hibernate like a bear in the woods.”

She opened the blinds and the sun came pouring in like a wave. You let out another groan and lift the blanket just enough to see your alarm clock, it reads 12:32 PM. You throw the covers off of you irritably and get dressed. 

You pick out a pair of patched up denim shorts and pair it with another band tee. You slip on your rings and add a chain to your shorts. After you pack up your backpack, you head downstairs to put your boots on.

“Where are you going in such a hurry?” Mom asks from the kitchen. “I’m going into town to see what kind of ‘attractions’ Hawkins has to offer me.” you answer sarcastically. 

“Stay out of trouble, please!” She calls, but before she knew it, you were already out the door with a skateboard in hand.

You drop the skateboard on the sidewalk and effortlessly push off into the street. The wind in your face is freshening and the concrete is a nice smooth ride. You swore to yourself you’d never skate again after you biffed it on a pothole that sent you flying. “Why do you always ride that dangerous thing!” You mom always asks. You always tell her it's a cheap thrill.

You see a cluster of stores in the distance and as you get closer you realize it’s a video store, a record shop, and a small café lined up next door to each other. You step off your board and pick it up. The signs in the window are advertising a vast horror movie collection, right up your alley.

The bell chimes as you push the door open. The cashiers seem to be arguing about something.

“No, Robin, you're not listening to me.” The male cashier starts to rub his temples.

“I am listening and that movie sucks, I'm not going to sit through “Maximum Overdrive”. Don't you dare play it on the display TV.” The woman scoffs and her coworker sighs.

“Hey.” You said softly and they both gave you a startled look.

“Uh Hey! Welcome to Family Video.” He says, his name tag says “Steve”.

“You guys got horror flicks, right?” You ask with a half smile.

“Yeah! Back corner on your right!” The woman says while pointing to the other side of the store.

“Thanks…uhhh…Robin.” You reply as you look down at her name tag.

“Am I losing my mind or is she new?” Steve leans in and asks Robin. “No, you're right, I've never seen her before.” Robin whispers back.

“I dig her style though.” Steve remarks and Robin sneers. “I bet that girl could eat you alive, Harrington.” She teases, Steve rolls his eyes and returns to his task.

You pick out a few movies, Nightmare on Elm Street, Invaders from Mars, and a movie you haven't seen advertised called “Creepshow”. Satisfied with your choices, you make your way back to the front counter.

“Shhhh here she comes.” Robin whispers and elbows Steve. “Did you find what you're looking for?” She asks and you nod.

You place the videos on the counter and retrieve your wallet inside your backpack. “I’ve never seen you around here before.” Robin asks and Steve looks kind of shocked at how forward she can be.

“I moved here yesterday. I’m just getting to know the place.” You reply as Robin totals up your purchase.

“They are going to have a field day over this one.” The male employee says with a smirk.

Robin turns her head and tells him to shut up under her breath. “That’s 6 dollars even.”

You pay her in exact change and take the videos, placing them in your backpack. “I guess I’ll see you guys around then.” You say with a half smile while making your way to the exit. Robin and Steve are speechless and Robin tries to hold on to her customer service smile. But when the door shuts they bust out laughing.

“You are SO rude!” She shouts.

You place a cigarette between your lips and notice a dark van parked next to the cirb. It looks like the one you heard last night. It's old and has seen some miles, that's for sure. You attempt to light your cigarette but it seems your lighter is finally out of fluid.

“God Dammit…” You swear under your breath.

Suddenly a man outstretches his arm, lighter in hand.

“Need a light?” The mystery man asks. You turn to face him and you're taken aback by his clothes. He looks…well, he looks just like you. Black jeans, Leather jacket, patched denim vest. His long curly hair was gorgeous. Your face flushed as he lit your cigarette. You inhale and manage to say “thank you”. 

“Never seen anyone like you in Hawkins. You must be new.” He remarks.

“That's what everyone keeps telling me.” You say with a quiet giggle.

“So, what's a girl like you doing in a town like this?”

“I’m on vacation, duh.” You say sarcastically and take a drag of your cigarette. The misfit extends his arm and you shake his hand.

“I'm Eddie….Munson. Eddie Munson, at your service.” He grins and you can’t help but submit to his charm, he's pretty cute after all. You shake his hand in return, noticing the chunky, silver, rings on his fingers. 

“Y/N, It’s nice to meet you, Eddie.” You return the smile and put out your cigarette on the curb.

You both lean against the back of his van and chat a bit. You tell him about your mom pressuring you to go to college and how boring this town is.

“So tell me, what do you do for fun around here? Besides speed through neighborhoods blaring loud music at ten o’clock at night.” You tease, all you want to do is make him smile again.

“That was your street? Well, in that case, I’m not sorry.” Eddie says playfully. “I’m glad I got your attention.”

A loud car abruptly interrupted your conversation. A group of teenage boys all wearing letterman jackets in a convertible pull up next to Eddie's van.

“Hey freak! This is for yesterday!” The jock yells and tosses something at Eddie, but suddenly a cold substance smacks you in the mouth. It was a milkshake and it’s now dribbling down your face and shirt. Before you could protest or get revenge, they sped off hysterically laughing like a bunch of dumb hyenas.

“Shit, dude! I am so sorry, that was meant for me.” He says opening the back door to his van. He grabs some napkins he had laying around and hands them to you. As you are wiping off the milkshake bomb, Eddie swipes his finger across your cheek and puts it in his mouth.

“Hmm…It's chocolate this time. Last week was vanilla.” That signature smirk grows back and your face turns several shades of red. 

“Can I give you a ride home?” He asks sweetly and all you can do is nod. 

[skribblz]

A Trick for a Trick (Collab!!!)

@intheticklecloset​ and I got together for another collab <3 <3 <3 it was super fun working with her as always and I’m glad she gave me the motivation to actually draw and color some things!!! hope everyone is having a great halloween!!!!

word count: 2448

“HALLOWEEEEEEN!” Hinata yelled at the top of his lungs, barreling through the doors of the spookily decorated gym dressed as a blue crayon of all things. Just a pace behind him came Kageyama, huffing and puffing and looking very much like he needed a drink, though Yachi thought to herself upon observing his vampire costume that she hoped he didn’t want blood.

“The chaos has arrived,” Kiyoko murmured pleasantly as she finished putting out the paper cups and plates and plastic utensils on the snacks table, all of which were various shades of orange, purple, black, and white to fit the theme of the evening.

Yachi smiled first at the two boys, then at her upperclassman, for whom she’d be taking over as team manager soon. “Things are sure to get pretty lively now that they’re here.”

“Honestly, I’m more surprised that Noya and Tanaka haven’t been hovering around us at all so far. It’s a little suspicious, really.” The taller girl surveyed the table, frowned, and then snapped her fingers. “Oh! We need napkins, especially for a group of teenage boys. There should be a few rolls of paper towels in the supply closet; could you get them, Yachi?”

“Of course,” the blonde replied, happy to be of use. She hurried toward the back of the gym where the supplies were kept, sliding open the door. The light from outside was enough to illuminate the interior while she searched, though for some reason the paper towels seemed to be the only thing she couldn’t find.

Just as her eyes landed on them – on the top shelf, of course – a shadow fell across her from behind and someone grabbed her shoulders, yelling right into her ear.

Yachi screamed and dropped to the ground, whirling around to see Noya standing over her in his samurai costume, looking surprised and amused and even a little guilty all at the same time.

“Sorry, Yachi,” he said with a tiny giggle, offering her a hand. “I just wanted to startle you; I didn’t think I’d scare you so bad.”

“W-Why would you do that?” she asked in a trembling voice, taking his hand and allowing him to pull her back to her feet. “That was so loud!”

Noya rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to really scare you. But I mean…you look kinda cute when you’re freaked out, you know?”

Yachi pressed her lips together and punched him before she could even think about it, surprising the both of them. “You’re the worst.”

“I’m sorry!” Noya laughed, rubbing his chest where she’d hit him. “What’re you doing in here, anyway? The party’s outside.”

“Kiyoko and I are still finishing setting up. I came in here for paper towels, but…” She looked up at the top shelf where they sat.

Noya followed her gaze. “You need help reaching them?”

She gave him an odd look. “No offense, Noya, but…you’re not much taller than me.”

“So? I’m a volleyball player. I can jump.” As if to prove his point, the libero leapt into the air, grabbed onto the top shelf, and grunted, “How many do you need?”

“Ah…four?” Yachi replied, then scrambled to catch them as he began to slide them off the shelf at her. When she had four in her arms, Noya landed back on the ground, flushed from exertion but beaming all the same. “T-Thank you, Noya.”

“Anytime. Now come on! Finish setting up so you can join the fun, Yachi!”

~

“I think that about does it,” Kiyoko said twenty minutes later, nodding in satisfaction at the hard work they’d done. The table looked great – very colorful and decorative for Halloween, with cobwebs and little plastic bats and spiders completing the look. There was everything from healthy snack foods to the typical candy one would usually have at this time of year, as well as a few different types of punch bowls.

“I’m surprised the boys haven’t tried getting into anything yet,” Yachi commented, glancing over her shoulder at the Karasuno volleyball club, who were deep in some kind of competition from the looks of things.

Kiyoko watched them, too, a fond gaze settling over her features. “For all of their antics, they do genuinely want to be helpful when they can, even if that means staying away for a while when I ask them to. You’d be surprised to learn how much they respect you already, let alone how much more when I’m gone next year.”

Yachi pressed her lips together. She didn’t want to think about next year, when she’d be all on her own.

All of a sudden she felt a light tickle along her neck, and Tanaka cried, “Look out, Yachi! There’s a spider on you!”

For the second time that night Yachi screamed, flailing and swatting at her neck to rid herself of the aforementioned creature. It took her a moment to realize Tanaka was bent over at the waist laughing.

“Ahahaha! Your face!” he teased, standing upright and holding one of the little spider decorations from the table up for her to see. “I was joking; it was just one of these. You’re good.”

“Tanaka,” Kiyoko scolded. “That was uncalled for. Yachi and I worked hard to get this party set up for you all, and this is how you thank her?”

Tanaka suddenly looked genuinely apologetic. Yachi scanned his costume. She vaguely recognized it as being a Marvel character of some kind, but she didn’t know which one exactly. She wasn’t into superheroes.

“I’m sorry,” he said now, drawing her attention back to him. “I was just trying to be funny.”

“What is it with you guys?” Yachi exclaimed, unable to help how her voice wavered a little. “First Noya, then you? I know this is a Halloween party, but I didn’t want to be scared to be here.”

Before anyone else could open his or her mouth, Hinata came barreling toward them, looking ridiculous but also super cute in his crayon costume. “Hey guys! Can we eat yet? Whoa, Yachi, why do you look like you’re about to cry? What’s wrong?”

Kiyoko sighed, adjusting her glasses. “Apparently Tanaka and Noya got it in their heads that it would be fun to scare Yachi. She’s a little shaken up.”

“Hey! That’s mean!” Hinata cried, whirling around to point an accusing finger at Tanaka. “Yachi’s a sensitive soul! You can’t do that to her! Remember how bad Kageyama and I freaked her out when we got into that big fight before?”

Tanaka was looking more and more chagrined as time went on. “I know, I know. I thought it would be funny, but it wasn’t. I’m really sorry, Yachi.”

Yachi hated all of this attention. She wanted it off of her as quickly as possible. So she nodded and said, “It’s okay. I’m fine.”

Kiyoko stepped forward and put an arm around her shoulders, giving the second-year boy a hard stare. “The food is ready for you guys to get into whenever you’d like. I’m going to take Yachi out for a little air. Do not make a mess of this gym.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Tanaka replied quietly while Hinata whooped and hollered, “FOOD’S READY!!”

Before the rest of the Karasuno volleyball club could invade their space, Kiyoko steered Yachi away.

~

“I’m fine, really,” Yachi told her once they were safely sitting on the steps leading into the gym, the loud noises coming from within a comfort now that she wasn’t directly in the middle of it. “I just wasn’t expecting to be a target tonight. Maybe I should have known better.”

“They’d never dare do that to me. They shouldn’t have dared with you, either,” Kiyoko replied, frowning. “And after I’d just gotten done saying they respected you.”

“It’s because I’m not as tough as you are. They probably see me as fresh meat.”

“That’s not it.” The older girl gave her arm a reassuring squeeze. “They like you, and that’s what boys do when they like you. They pick on you. If you want to make sure it doesn’t become a regular thing, you’ll have to put your foot down. But once you do, they’ll back off. They’re good about that – well, most of them are.” She rolled her eyes, thinking of the two boys who had come after her mentee tonight. “But they mean well.”

Yachi worried her bottom lip between her teeth, mind racing. She wasn’t going to be able to put her foot down with these guys – there was no way. She wasn’t strong enough for that, and next year she’d have to do it all by herself, and—

“What do you want to do about it?” Kiyoko asked her.

Yachi blinked back to reality. “Huh?”

“Since the coaches aren’t here, we’re allowed to punish them for acting out if we feel it’s necessary.”

“Oh, no! I don’t want to do that – they’re just having fun, and I just don’t like being scared. I know they didn’t mean it—”

“Punishment doesn’t have to be harsh, you know.” Kiyoko’s smile had become a little playful. “You know how the boys go after each other for stuff, don’t you?”

Yachi’s eyes widened. She blushed. “Y-Yeah, but…I don’t think I can do that, either.”

“It’s whatever you want to do, if you want to do anything at all. Personally I think they deserve a good scolding, but you’re their new manager. You’ll have to decide how you want to handle these situations going forward. There will be plenty of them, trust me.”

The blonde considered this. She knew it was true, and though it only made her worry more, it also lit a fire in her knowing that she’d be the one in charge next year. She’d have to make decisions like this, and she might as well start now, while she still had a little guidance.

“What if…what if we asked the third-years to teach them a lesson?”

Kiyoko smiled. “You know Noya and Tanaka will be third-years next year.”

“Oh, right.” Yachi reconsidered. The more she thought about it, the more she realized maybe she did want to do something hands-on herself after all. “Then…what if we ask them to just…hold them for us?”

“While we dole out punishment?”

“Y-Yeah.”

Kiyoko looked both proud of her and eager to get started. “I think that can be arranged.”

“Would you…do it with me?”

“Absolutely I would.”

Yachi beamed. “Which one do you want?”

~

The night went on uninterrupted. The boys played games and had a costume contest and ate nearly everything on the table, which made cleanup a lot easier on the girls, so they weren’t complaining. They even put everything in the trash where it belonged. The gym looked as good as could be expected after ten teenage boys had torn through it for four hours.

But as the night wound down to a close and before anyone could go home, Kiyoko got their attention.

“This is the third-years’ last Halloween party,” she said, plowing forward before anyone could start to think too much about it, “which means next year at this time, Yachi will be the one in charge of making sure everything is put together for you. She worked hard tonight, but a couple of you decided to be jerks to her.” Here she made hard eye contact with Tanaka and Noya, who flinched. “We won’t tell the coaches and are willing to let it slide, on one condition that Yachi herself has decided.”

Everyone looked at the younger girl, who flushed under their attention. “I-If a couple of you wouldn’t mind holding them for us, Kiyoko and I would like to, uh…get a little revenge.” She hesitated a moment, then wiggled her fingers to get her point across.

For a moment there was total silence.

Then everyone was rushing to be the ones to grab Tanaka and Noya before they could make a break for it. Yachi was startled by their enthusiasm but also relieved and encouraged by it, and she and Kiyoko shared smiles with each other as the boys fought it out. In the end, Asahi had Noya easily restrained with his much bigger stature, and Kageyama and Daichi held Tanaka.

“W-We’re sorry, Yachi,” Noya said quickly, blushing furiously just knowing he was about to be at either her or Kiyoko’s mercy within seconds. “At least, I am. I wasn’t trying to scare you; I just wanted to make you jump a little.”

Yachi smiled at him as she approached. “I know. That’s why I’m letting Kiyoko have Tanaka. She’ll be meaner than I will.”

Tanaka sputtered apologies as well, but all of it was useless. Soon both he and Noya were laughing and struggling against their captors as the girls took out their tickly revenge on them, sharing secret smiles with each other as they did so.

“Remember,” Kiyoko said over the roar of their hysterics, “this was Yachi’s idea. She’s your manager now, not me. Treat her well and maybe you won’t suffer the same fate!”

“Yes, ma’am!” the rest of the boys chorused, all of them grinning at the scene before them and at the girls.

Yachi – for her part – felt a wave of affection crash over her, both from the boys to her and from her to them. Her fingers danced along Noya’s torso, drawing out screechy giggles from the libero while Tanaka laughed and pleaded for Kiyoko to stop beside her. The blonde let her victim go first, then hugged him when Asahi unhanded him.

“You know we got your back, right?” Noya said through residual giggles, flashing her a genuine smile. “We really like you, Yachi. I hope you know that.”

“I do,” she replied, reaching out to squeeze Kiyoko’s arm as a way to let her know she should probably let Tanaka free as well. She looked back at him and returned his smile. “I like you guys, too.”

Kiyoko stepped up beside her and gave her a little nudge. “Well done handling the situation, team manager.”

Yachi blushed and brushed her hair behind her ear, grinning first at her then at all of the boys. “Well, uh…Happy Halloween, everyone. Make sure you have everything you need before you go home.”

The boys chorused a combination of “yes ma’am” and “Happy Halloween!” back at her, and Yachi felt a rare moment of confidence that maybe she could do this. Maybe she could manage these boys once Kiyoko was gone.

Yes, she decided as she watched them all double-check that they’d cleaned up properly and had their coats and other items as she’d suggested before calling goodnight to her. I’ve got this.

[intheticklecloset]

A Trick For a Trick (A Haikyuu!! Halloween Special)

Written by me / Art by @skribblz

A/N: TADA!! We've done it again, but this time for Halloween! My good buddy skribblz and I thought it would be fun to collab again over the summer, but life kept happening (on my end at least), so we postponed it to be a Halloween thing instead. We wanted to focus on the girls for this one, and this is the result! LOOK HOW CUTE HER ART IS!! We hope you enjoy! Happy Halloween! ^^

Word Count: 2,448

~~~

“HALLOWEEEEEEN!” Hinata yelled at the top of his lungs, barreling through the doors of the spookily decorated gym dressed as a blue crayon of all things. Just a pace behind him came Kageyama, huffing and puffing and looking very much like he needed a drink, though Yachi thought to herself upon observing his vampire costume that she hoped he didn’t want blood.

“The chaos has arrived,” Kiyoko murmured pleasantly as she finished putting out the paper cups and plates and plastic utensils on the snacks table, all of which were various shades of orange, purple, black, and white to fit the theme of the evening.

Yachi smiled first at the two boys, then at her upperclassman, for whom she’d be taking over as team manager soon. “Things are sure to get pretty lively now that they’re here.”

“Honestly, I’m more surprised that Noya and Tanaka haven’t been hovering around us at all so far. It’s a little suspicious, really.” The taller girl surveyed the table, frowned, and then snapped her fingers. “Oh! We need napkins, especially for a group of teenage boys. There should be a few rolls of paper towels in the supply closet; could you get them, Yachi?”

“Of course,” the blonde replied, happy to be of use. She hurried toward the back of the gym where the supplies were kept, sliding open the door. The light from outside was enough to illuminate the interior while she searched, though for some reason the paper towels seemed to be the only thing she couldn’t find.

Just as her eyes landed on them – on the top shelf, of course – a shadow fell across her from behind and someone grabbed her shoulders, yelling right into her ear.

Yachi screamed and dropped to the ground, whirling around to see Noya standing over her in his samurai costume, looking surprised and amused and even a little guilty all at the same time.

“Sorry, Yachi,” he said with a tiny giggle, offering her a hand. “I just wanted to startle you; I didn’t think I’d scare you so bad.”

“W-Why would you do that?” she asked in a trembling voice, taking his hand and allowing him to pull her back to her feet. “That was so loud!”

Noya rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to really scare you. But I mean…you look kinda cute when you’re freaked out, you know?”

Yachi pressed her lips together and punched him before she could even think about it, surprising the both of them. “You’re the worst.”

“I’m sorry!” Noya laughed, rubbing his chest where she’d hit him. “What’re you doing in here, anyway? The party’s outside.”

“Kiyoko and I are still finishing setting up. I came in here for paper towels, but…” She looked up at the top shelf where they sat.

Noya followed her gaze. “You need help reaching them?”

She gave him an odd look. “No offense, Noya, but…you’re not much taller than me.”

“So? I’m a volleyball player. I can jump.” As if to prove his point, the libero leapt into the air, grabbed onto the top shelf, and grunted, “How many do you need?”

“Ah…four?” Yachi replied, then scrambled to catch them as he began to slide them off the shelf at her. When she had four in her arms, Noya landed back on the ground, flushed from exertion but beaming all the same. “T-Thank you, Noya.”

“Anytime. Now come on! Finish setting up so you can join the fun, Yachi!”

~

“I think that about does it,” Kiyoko said twenty minutes later, nodding in satisfaction at the hard work they’d done. The table looked great – very colorful and decorative for Halloween, with cobwebs and little plastic bats and spiders completing the look. There was everything from healthy snack foods to the typical candy one would usually have at this time of year, as well as a few different types of punch bowls.

“I’m surprised the boys haven’t tried getting into anything yet,” Yachi commented, glancing over her shoulder at the Karasuno volleyball club, who were deep in some kind of competition from the looks of things.

Kiyoko watched them, too, a fond gaze settling over her features. “For all of their antics, they do genuinely want to be helpful when they can, even if that means staying away for a while when I ask them to. You’d be surprised to learn how much they respect you already, let alone how much more when I’m gone next year.”

Yachi pressed her lips together. She didn’t want to think about next year, when she’d be all on her own.

All of a sudden she felt a light tickle along her neck, and Tanaka cried, “Look out, Yachi! There’s a spider on you!”

For the second time that night Yachi screamed, flailing and swatting at her neck to rid herself of the aforementioned creature. It took her a moment to realize Tanaka was bent over at the waist laughing.

“Ahahaha! Your face!” he teased, standing upright and holding one of the little spider decorations from the table up for her to see. “I was joking; it was just one of these. You’re good.”

“Tanaka,” Kiyoko scolded. “That was uncalled for. Yachi and I worked hard to get this party set up for you all, and this is how you thank her?”

Tanaka suddenly looked genuinely apologetic. Yachi scanned his costume. She vaguely recognized it as being a Marvel character of some kind, but she didn’t know which one exactly. She wasn’t into superheroes.

“I’m sorry,” he said now, drawing her attention back to him. “I was just trying to be funny.”

“What is it with you guys?” Yachi exclaimed, unable to help how her voice wavered a little. “First Noya, then you? I know this is a Halloween party, but I didn’t want to be scared to be here.”

Before anyone else could open his or her mouth, Hinata came barreling toward them, looking ridiculous but also super cute in his crayon costume. “Hey guys! Can we eat yet? Whoa, Yachi, why do you look like you’re about to cry? What’s wrong?”

Kiyoko sighed, adjusting her glasses. “Apparently Tanaka and Noya got it in their heads that it would be fun to scare Yachi. She’s a little shaken up.”

“Hey! That’s mean!” Hinata cried, whirling around to point an accusing finger at Tanaka. “Yachi’s a sensitive soul! You can’t do that to her! Remember how bad Kageyama and I freaked her out when we got into that big fight before?”

Tanaka was looking more and more chagrined as time went on. “I know, I know. I thought it would be funny, but it wasn’t. I’m really sorry, Yachi.”

Yachi hated all of this attention. She wanted it off of her as quickly as possible. So she nodded and said, “It’s okay. I’m fine.”

Kiyoko stepped forward and put an arm around her shoulders, giving the second-year boy a hard stare. “The food is ready for you guys to get into whenever you’d like. I’m going to take Yachi out for a little air. Do not make a mess of this gym.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Tanaka replied quietly while Hinata whooped and hollered, “FOOD’S READY!!”

Before the rest of the Karasuno volleyball club could invade their space, Kiyoko steered Yachi away.

~

“I’m fine, really,” Yachi told her once they were safely sitting on the steps leading into the gym, the loud noises coming from within a comfort now that she wasn’t directly in the middle of it. “I just wasn’t expecting to be a target tonight. Maybe I should have known better.”

“They’d never dare do that to me. They shouldn’t have dared with you, either,” Kiyoko replied, frowning. “And after I’d just gotten done saying they respected you.”

“It’s because I’m not as tough as you are. They probably see me as fresh meat.”

“That’s not it.” The older girl gave her arm a reassuring squeeze. “They like you, and that’s what boys do when they like you. They pick on you. If you want to make sure it doesn’t become a regular thing, you’ll have to put your foot down. But once you do, they’ll back off. They’re good about that – well, most of them are.” She rolled her eyes, thinking of the two boys who had come after her mentee tonight. “But they mean well.”

Yachi worried her bottom lip between her teeth, mind racing. She wasn’t going to be able to put her foot down with these guys – there was no way. She wasn’t strong enough for that, and next year she’d have to do it all by herself, and—

“What do you want to do about it?” Kiyoko asked her.

Yachi blinked back to reality. “Huh?”

“Since the coaches aren’t here, we’re allowed to punish them for acting out if we feel it’s necessary.”

“Oh, no! I don’t want to do that – they’re just having fun, and I just don’t like being scared. I know they didn’t mean it—”

“Punishment doesn’t have to be harsh, you know.” Kiyoko’s smile had become a little playful. “You know how the boys go after each other for stuff, don’t you?”

Yachi’s eyes widened. She blushed. “Y-Yeah, but…I don’t think I can do that, either.”

“It’s whatever you want to do, if you want to do anything at all. Personally I think they deserve a good scolding, but you’re their new manager. You’ll have to decide how you want to handle these situations going forward. There will be plenty of them, trust me.”

The blonde considered this. She knew it was true, and though it only made her worry more, it also lit a fire in her knowing that she’d be the one in charge next year. She’d have to make decisions like this, and she might as well start now, while she still had a little guidance.

“What if…what if we asked the third-years to teach them a lesson?”

Kiyoko smiled. “You know Noya and Tanaka will be third-years next year.”

“Oh, right.” Yachi reconsidered. The more she thought about it, the more she realized maybe she did want to do something hands-on herself after all. “Then…what if we ask them to just…hold them for us?”

“While we dole out punishment?”

“Y-Yeah.”

Kiyoko looked both proud of her and eager to get started. “I think that can be arranged.”

“Would you…do it with me?”

“Absolutely I would.”

Yachi beamed. “Which one do you want?”

~

The night went on uninterrupted. The boys played games and had a costume contest and ate nearly everything on the table, which made cleanup a lot easier on the girls, so they weren’t complaining. They even put everything in the trash where it belonged. The gym looked as good as could be expected after ten teenage boys had torn through it for four hours.

But as the night wound down to a close and before anyone could go home, Kiyoko got their attention.

“This is the third-years’ last Halloween party,” she said, plowing forward before anyone could start to think too much about it, “which means next year at this time, Yachi will be the one in charge of making sure everything is put together for you. She worked hard tonight, but a couple of you decided to be jerks to her.” Here she made hard eye contact with Tanaka and Noya, who flinched. “We won’t tell the coaches and are willing to let it slide, on one condition that Yachi herself has decided.”

Everyone looked at the younger girl, who flushed under their attention. “I-If a couple of you wouldn’t mind holding them for us, Kiyoko and I would like to, uh…get a little revenge.” She hesitated a moment, then wiggled her fingers to get her point across.

For a moment there was total silence.

Then everyone was rushing to be the ones to grab Tanaka and Noya before they could make a break for it. Yachi was startled by their enthusiasm but also relieved and encouraged by it, and she and Kiyoko shared smiles with each other as the boys fought it out. In the end, Asahi had Noya easily restrained with his much bigger stature, and Kageyama and Daichi held Tanaka.

“W-We’re sorry, Yachi,” Noya said quickly, blushing furiously just knowing he was about to be at either her or Kiyoko’s mercy within seconds. “At least, I am. I wasn’t trying to scare you; I just wanted to make you jump a little.”

Yachi smiled at him as she approached. “I know. That’s why I’m letting Kiyoko have Tanaka. She’ll be meaner than I will.”

Tanaka sputtered apologies as well, but all of it was useless. Soon both he and Noya were laughing and struggling against their captors as the girls took out their tickly revenge on them, sharing secret smiles with each other as they did so.

“Remember,” Kiyoko said over the roar of their hysterics, “this was Yachi’s idea. She’s your manager now, not me. Treat her well and maybe you won’t suffer the same fate!”

“Yes, ma’am!” the rest of the boys chorused, all of them grinning at the scene before them and at the girls.

Yachi – for her part – felt a wave of affection crash over her, both from the boys to her and from her to them. Her fingers danced along Noya’s torso, drawing out screechy giggles from the libero while Tanaka laughed and pleaded for Kiyoko to stop beside her. The blonde let her victim go first, then hugged him when Asahi unhanded him.

“You know we got your back, right?” Noya said through residual giggles, flashing her a genuine smile. “We really like you, Yachi. I hope you know that.”

“I do,” she replied, reaching out to squeeze Kiyoko’s arm as a way to let her know she should probably let Tanaka free as well. She looked back at him and returned his smile. “I like you guys, too.”

Kiyoko stepped up beside her and gave her a little nudge. “Well done handling the situation, team manager.”

Yachi blushed and brushed her hair behind her ear, grinning first at her then at all of the boys. “Well, uh…Happy Halloween, everyone. Make sure you have everything you need before you go home.”

The boys chorused a combination of “yes ma’am” and “Happy Halloween!” back at her, and Yachi felt a rare moment of confidence that maybe she could do this. Maybe she could manage these boys once Kiyoko was gone.

Yes, she decided as she watched them all double-check that they’d cleaned up properly and had their coats and other items as she’d suggested before calling goodnight to her. I’ve got this.

[crystalninjaphoenix]

Celebrations & Confrontations

A JSE Fanfic

Second to last fic chapter is here! Man, I can’t believe we’re so close to the end. After what a wild ride this AU has been, it’s only fitting that the climax is just as wild. Everyone gets together to celebrate everyone being out of the hospital! Or at least allowed out of the hospital with supervision. Unfortunately, an unexpected guest decides to crash their party. I think this part might deserve a warning. So, warning for guns and also a bomb threat. I mean what? Hahaha enjoy! =)

You can find the other stories under the pw timeline tag!

Knock, knock, knock. The sound seemed unusually loud in the empty neighborhood. Chase stepped back, glancing at JJ standing beside him, who gave him a small smile in return. The two of them waited for a few minutes on the doorstep. “Do you think I should knock again, or...?” Chase asked.

At that moment, the door opened, revealing Marvin. “Sorry!” he said. “Luna was at the door, had to get her away.” In his arms he held his other cat, Ragamuffin, who was not nearly as excited about the door opening as Luna usually was. “Anyway, hey! Come on in!” He stepped to the side.

“Hi, Marv,” Chase said, waving a bit as he walked inside. “Good to see you again.”

JJ, following Chase, glanced around the living room. Ah, you’ve finally put away all the boxes. Good job. It’s only been several months.

“Haha, you’re very funny.” Marvin closed the door behind them. “You know what they say: nothing like having several people over at your house to get you to tidy things.”

JJ laughed. Hey, did you get a haircut? It looks shorter.

“No, that’s just ‘cause of the style.” Marvin’s hair was in a braid instead of its usual ponytail. “Where’s Jackie? I thought you were picking him up.”

“I did too,” Chase said. “But right before we got to his place he called and said he was going to be late. Something about a sudden meeting with his landlord.”

“Ugh.” Marvin shook his head. “I’m so glad I was able to buy my own house.”

Chase shrugged. “Jackie’s building isn’t too bad, yknow. I mean, they kept his apartment open even though he was missing for like a year. Not many places would do that.”

“True, true.” Marvin nodded. “Anyway, you guys can make yourselves at home. I got drinks and food in the kitchen, and if you guys want to set up a movie or game go ahead. I’m going to put this guy—” He scratched behind Ragamuffin’s ears. “—in my room with Luna so the two of them don’t get underfoot. I moved the terrarium there, too, which took forever.” He groaned. “Be right back.” With that, he disappeared down the hallway.

Chase walked over to the television, setting down the bag he’d brought. “Hey, Jay, did you want to do anything in particular first?” He rummaged through the bag’s contents. “Stacy let me borrow the family Switch for the weekend, so I can hook it up here.”

JJ shook his head. I don’t have anything in mind. But I think we should wait for everyone else to arrive first. He turned around and opened the front door again. I’m going to go get the cookies from the car.

“Ohhh right, you go ahead and do that.”

Jameson made an OK sign with his hands and left. He returned only a minute later with a plate of store bought sugar cookies. Heading down the hall, he arrived in the kitchen and put the plate down next to all the other food Marvin had bought for that evening. Snack foods, mostly: chips, pretzels, bowls of fun-sized candy bars, some 2-liter bottles of soda with accompanying red plastic cups. Marvin had offered to provide alcohol as well, but Chase requested that they leave that off the plan.

Marvin, walking by the kitchen doorway, stopped and leaned in. “Oh sweet, cookies!” He grinned. “You know you guys didn’t have to bring anything.”

I know, I know, JJ signed. But it’s the least I could do after you offered to do basically everything.

“Still.” Marvin’s grin faded a bit. Now he looked a bit anxious. “You, um...you think this is going to go well? I mean, Schneep is going to have doctors with him and everything, they’re not gonna shut this down or anything, are they?”

If they had any objections, I’m sure they would have brought them up when you and Chase asked if he could come, JJ said.

“Right, right.” Marvin took a deep breath, in and out. “And...Jack won’t have any problems with it, will he?”

“It’ll be fine, Marvin.” Chase, walking down the hall to join the two others, had just barely caught Marvin’s concerns. “I cleared everything with both hospitals, there’s no problem with anything. The only thing we have to worry about is that Jackie’s allergic to peanuts, and I can tell you’ve got everything there sorted out.” He gestured to the counter of snacks. Most of them were nut-free and the ones that weren’t had been carefully separated from the rest.

“Right,” Marvin said again, nervously playing with the hem of his shirt.

Chase checked the time on his phone. “Okay, it’s just about time to pick up Jack. Maybe Jackie will be done with his thing by then and I can swing by his place, too. I’ll be back in like twenty minutes.”

See you later, Chase, JJ said, smiling. Thanks again for the ride. You didn’t have to.

“Heh. No problem, really.” Chase made a finger gun, which he then slowly lowered in slight embarrassment. “See you guys later.”

—————— 

Only five minutes after Chase left, there was another knock at the front door. Marvin, who had been sitting on the sofa with JJ and talking, stood up and quickly walked over to open it.

“Marvin!” Instantly, Marvin was enveloped in a tight hug. “Oh!” The hug disappeared. “I should have asked first, sorry.”

“Hey, Schneep!” Marvin laughed. “No, it’s fine. Bring it in.”

Schneep smiled wide, and the two friends embraced. In just the two weeks since Marvin had last seen him, he’d already changed a lot. He looked almost like his old self again. Sure his hair was a bit longer, and the medical bracelet on his wrist wasn’t going away anytime soon, but he was wearing one of his old favorite sweaters and wasn’t nearly as pale as he used to be. “How’s it feel to be out of there for a little bit?” Marvin asked.

“Well, I now understand what they mean when they say something is a breath of fresh air.” Schneep took a step back. “Because it is literal for me.” He looked around the living room. “Your house has not changed that much.”

“Nope. Which is weird, considering I left it for a few months there.”

He only recently unpacked everything again, JJ signed from the sofa.

“Hey, I saw that!” Marvin said.

“Um...” A voice coughed awkwardly. “Is it alright if we come inside?”

“Oh!” Marvin had been so concerned with Schneep that he hadn’t noticed the two others with him. “Yeah, of course. Uh, hi, by the way! Mina, Dr. Laurens.”

“Hello again,” Mina said, stepping inside. “I hope you do not mind, but I brought a drink.” She held up a two-liter bottle of pink lemonade. “I have to drive home so I did not want anything—you know.”

“Oh, don’t worry, we don’t have any here,” Marvin assured her. “Did you guys all...drive together?”

Laurens smiled faintly. “No, Mina just happened to pull up to your house at the same time we did.” She indicated Schneep and herself.

“Oh, okay.” Marvin closed the door once everyone was inside, then turned to Mina. “Well, you can put that in the kitchen with all the rest of the drinks. It’s down the hall, there.”

“Got it.” Mina nodded, heading off in the direction he pointed.

“Jamie! Hello!” Schneep headed over to the sofa. JJ stood up, and the two of them hugged quickly. “I feel as though it has been forever. You do not visit that often, is everything okay?”

It’s all fine, don’t worry, JJ hurried to say. Nothing to do with you. It’s just I’ve been busy with personal stuff lately. You know...considering everything.

“Ah.” For a moment, Schneep’s expression fell. He glanced back at Laurens, who gave him an encouraging thumbs up. “Well, yes, I was busy with that sort of stuff, too.” He sighed. “But...let us not talk about that here. This is a celebration, yes?”

Jameson nodded, straightening and putting on a smile. You’re right. Your friend Jack has worked very hard to get out of the hospital, it deserves celebrating!

“‘Your’ friend? Ha, do not tell me Jack has not taken you into his friend fold yet, I know what that man is like.” Schneep chuckled.

JJ laughed a bit as well. No, you’re right. We’ve only met a few times, but he’s very insistent.

While the two of them talked, Marvin leaned over to Laurens and asked, “So is it just you?”

“As supervision? Yes.” Laurens nodded. “Normally it would have been an orderly, but I asked for special permission from Dr. Fells. Just this once. I thought it would, um...‘kill the vibe’ if there was one random stranger in this group of friends. At least you guys know me.”

“Y’know, I think we can be considered friendly by now,” Marvin said, smiling.

“Oh.” Laurens didn’t hide her surprise. “Really? I mean, we only got together a few times. And isn’t it a little weird? With my job and anything.”

“I don’t think it’s weird. And a few times is enough for some people. I’m sure Chase would go out of his way to assure you more, but uh, I’m not all that good at that sort of stuff.” Marvin shrugged. “But you’re cool with me.”

“Well...thank you,” Laurens said. Her voice was soft, but full of feeling.

At that moment, Mina returned from the kitchen, carrying a stack of red plastic cups and a permanent marker. “Alright everyone!” she announced. “I am establishing a rule now! If you grab a cup, you must write your name on it so there is no confusing! Alright?”

JJ frowned. I don’t think there’s enough of us to cause confusion.

“Well, we do it to be sure, then,” Mina insisted. “Just in case there are germs and such.”

Schneep nudged Jameson. “Yes, germs and such. I agree. As a doctor.”

JJ raised an eyebrow. Are you sure you’re not just taking your girlfriend’s side?

“What? Noooo. No, girlfriend? I—what do you mean?” Schneep stammered. “We are still being just friends.”

“Um, yes! Exactly!” Mina added. “That’s all.” Her face was turning a bit red.

Jameson nodded. Right. Just friends. He looked across the room, briefly locking eyes with Laurens and Marvin. They all exchanged identical expressions. Well, should we bring the drinks out here, then?

—————— 

About fifteen minutes later, Jackie finally arrived, knocking on the door like the others before him. “Sorry I’m late,” he said, walking in as soon as Marvin opened the door. “It was totally the bus’s fault, I swear, they were totally behind schedule—”

“It’s fine, Jackie,” Marvin said. “You’re not even the last to arrive.”

“Really?” Jackie scanned the room. “Oh, you’re right. Well, I feel a bit better now.”

“Jackie!” Schneep waved at him from across the room. “It is good to see you!”

“Schneep!” Jackie hurried over to him. As soon as he was within range, Schneep threw his arms around him. “Whoa! Little tight there.”

“Ah, sorry.” Schneep backed up, still smiling. “It just feels like so long. You got a haircut!”

“Yeah, I did.” Jackie ran a hand along his new, short length of hair. “I thought it was time, you know?”

I think it looks good on you, JJ said, appearing at Jackie’s other side.

“Oh hey JJ!” Jackie leaned over and gave Jameson a quick, tight hug. “How have you been?”

Pretty good, actually. I’ll be honest, I’m still on edge. Jameson’s signs were a bit smaller as he said that. But I’m being optimistic. Not going to let any of this keep me down.

“That’s the spirit!” Jackie grinned.

“Oh hey, Jackie,” Marvin called from over by the front door. “Are you gonna put your backpack down?”

“Nah, I think I’ll hold onto it for a bit,” Jackie said.

Marvin narrowed his eyes. “Did you pack it full of superhero movies? All the Spider-Mans again?”

“Mmmm I’m not telling.” Jackie tried to smother his smile.

“Godamnit Jackie, if I have to spend another two hours with you gushing over Andrew Garfield I am kicking you out of my house!” Marvin shook his head. “Anyway, there’s food in the kitchen, drinks on the coffee table. Make sure to write your name on your cup so it doesn’t get confused with anyone else’s. Laurens and Mina are in the kitchen, too, if you want to say hi.”

“Got it.” Jackie nodded, then headed over to the coffee table, grabbing a red plastic cup and the marker.

Knock, knock, knock. Someone was at the front door for the fourth time that night. Marvin brightened up. “Guys, it’s them!” he said, hurrying over to open the door.

“I’m back!” Chase announced, stepping into the house as soon as the door was open. “And guess who’s with me?” He then stepped to the side, revealing—

“Hey guys.” Jack smiled, a bit shyly, and waved.

“Jack!” everyone shouted in joyful unison.

Immediately, Jack was surrounded by friends, chattering and buzzing over each other for a solid thirty seconds. That came to an end when Marvin shouted, “Alright, alright! He needs space! You all back the fuck up!”

“Ah, sorry, Jack.” Jackie gave a little laugh. “It’s just so surprising to see you out, you know?”

“It’s surprising to be out, I can say that much.” For the first time in months, Jack was wearing normal street clothes—a black hoodie and jeans—and not hospital garb. That alone made him look much more lively, but he still wasn’t quite as lively as he might have been. The cane he was holding tight to was a clear enough indication. “Man, Marv, your house really hasn’t changed at all, has it?”

“Why are you the second person to say that?” Marvin groaned.

Is everything okay, Jack? JJ asked. How’s it gone so far?

“Been alright. I’m still gonna need some physical therapy, but I can walk, and they said that’s an important step forward. Literally.” Jack laughed at his own joke. Then, he spotted someone lingering at the edge of the group. “Schneep?” he said. “Is that you?”

“I...yes, it’s me,” Schneep said, shifting awkwardly on his feet.

“Wow. I almost didn’t recognize you—which is amazing, considering how we’re all clones,” Jack joked. “It’s like forgetting my own face.”

Schneep chuckled a bit, but still looked on edge. He hesitated, then stepped forward. “I—Jack, I—I know this is all my fault, but—but it is very good to see you.”

Jack tilted his head. “Hey. It’s alright.”

“But I am the one who—”

“Yeah, you are.” Jack reached out and grabbed Schneep’s hand, squeezing it tightly. “And I won’t lie, that...wasn’t good,” he said delicately. “And I do think we need to talk about that some time. But not right now. It’s really alright, Schneep. I promise.”

Schneep stared at him for a moment more. Then he let out a deep breath, blinking back sudden tears in his eyes. “Are we...still friends?” he asked, almost too quiet to be heard.

“I...I think we are, yeah,” Jack said.

“I...good. Good.” Schneep put on a smile. “I am glad you are okay.”

“Me too.” Jack returned the smile. “Now.” He looked around at everyone else, standing awkwardly nearby and trying to seem like they weren’t listening. “This is supposed to be a party, right? Let’s get it started!”

—————— 

Soon, everyone relaxed into the friendly atmosphere. Chase quickly asserted control over the TV and game systems, which led to a couple arguments with Marvin as he insisted on telling Chase how to set everything up. Mina and Laurens reappeared from the kitchen, greeting the others who had shown up in their absence. Jack sat down in one of the armchairs and, surprisingly, struck up a conversation with Jameson, the two of them getting to know each other a bit more.

After a while, Laurens left Mina talking with Schneep and looked around the room. She wasn’t usually the sociable type at parties, but then again, she didn’t really consider this a party. It was just a bunch of friends getting together, celebrating the fact that ‘getting together’ was possible for the first time in a long while. She couldn’t help but smile to herself.

By now, Chase, Marvin, Jack, and Jameson were all busy debating whether they should put on a movie or play a video game. The sides were evenly split into two vs. two, and Laurens didn’t really feel like becoming a tiebreaker for that matter. Mina and Schneep were talking in German, with Mina showing Schneep several pictures on her phone—probably of their daughter Elise. Jackie was the only person on his own, leaning against a wall and swirling a drink in a red plastic cup. Laurens made her way over to him. “Are you daydreaming again?” she asked.

“Hmm?” Jackie looked over at her, a bit startled. “Oh, uh, hi. Sorry. Was it that obvious?”

Laurens shrugged. “Not unless you’re looking for it. How have things been?”

Now it was Jackie’s turn to shrug. “Fine, I guess. Things are different now, and it’s just...even though a lot of bad stuff happened, it’s hard to get used to a difference, you know?”

“Well that’s completely normal,” Laurens reassured him. “Our brains tend to establish baselines, and when all we’re used to is terribleness, the lack of terribleness seems strange, simply because it’s not the baseline anymore.”

Jackie laughed. “You really are a psychiatrist, aren’t you, Laurens?”

“I—um, what did you call me?” Laurens asked, confused.

“What?” Jackie grinned. “Did I have your name wrong all this time?”

“No, it’s just...you’ve never called me by my last name,” Laurens said slowly. Even though everyone else here tended to use her surname, Jackie was the one exception, the one who had called her Rya from the start.

“Oh. Sorry. I thought it would be like—a funny thing. Um. Anyway.” Jackie quickly drained the remaining drink in his cup. “I’m gonna...go to the bathroom. Be right back.” He pushed away from the wall, heading to the hallway. As he passed the coffee table, he put his cup down. Not too carefully, as it tipped over the moment he let go. But he didn’t care to right it, disappearing down the hall. Laurens watched him, puzzled.

“Whoa.” Jack, sitting in his chair by the coffee table, leaned forward and picked up Jackie’s cup. “Hey, Jackie, be more careful, man!” he called after him. “That could’ve spilled!” He sighed, and happened to look down at the cup in his hands. It was a quick glance, but something seemed off, and he looked at the cup more closely.

Knock, knock.

The conversation lulled a bit. Marvin, sitting at the sofa, stood up. “It’s probably a solicitor,” he said to the room at large. “I’ll make sure they leave.” And he hurried to the front door.

“Hey Chase?” Jack said, leaning closer to where Chase was crouching on the floor, looking through the movies and games they’d all brought.

“Yeah?” Chase turned towards Jack. “What’s up?”

“This is going to sound weird, but...” Jack paused. “Did...Jackie’s handwriting get...messier? While I was in the hospital?” He held out the cup for Chase to look at, with Jackie’s name written in black on the red plastic.

Marvin opened the front door. “Hi, sorry, I can’t listen to some sales pitch right...now...” His voice trailed off, and he took a step backwards, his eyes wide in confused surprise.

Chase grabbed the cup from Jack’s hand to get a better look. “What the—” He shook his head. “That’s not Jackie’s handwriting.”

“Hey guys, sorry I’m late.”

Everyone looked up at the sound of the voice. Jackie was stepping past Marvin and into the house. “That whole thing took way longer than it should have,” he said, rolling his eyes and closing the front door behind him. “Did you know there’s construction on Center Street? I didn’t, because they apparently decided to let the bus routes run right through it.” He stopped, noticing the stares and dead silence he’d walked into. “What? Why are you all looking at me like that?”

“...Jackie,” Schneep said slowly. “Did you...change your clothes? And...your hair?”

“What?” Jackie’s brows drew together. “I mean, I got a haircut, but what do you mean by changing my clothes?”

Most everyone glanced around at each other, too confused to move. But Jameson gasped, eyes widening in realization. He immediately shot to his feet and—

Click. “Please don’t do anything stupid, Jamie.”

There was a man standing in the hallway entrance. A man wearing the same kind of clothes Jackie wore, a man who looked quite a lot like Jackie, but whose stiff posture and cold expression told everyone he was not Jackie. One hand held a black handgun, loaded and pointed forward. The other hand reached up and used the sleeve of his jacket to wipe away the makeup covering half his face, revealing the scars underneath.

For a split second, everything was frozen.

Then there was a scream, and everyone burst into motion. Chase scrambled to his feet, stepping in front of Jack—who tried to stand but couldn’t get up. Jackie gasped and spun back towards the door, and Marvin did the same. Mina grabbed Schneep, who was still in shock, and shoved him behind her. Laurens dropped the cup she was holding and ran to duck behind the nearest chair. The only one who stayed still was Jameson.

“Everyone freeze!” Anti pointed the gun towards the front door. “You two step away from the door. Don’t think I won’t shoot you.”

Marvin, his hand on the front door’s handle, instinctively stopped. Jackie tried to discreetly gesture for him to keep going, but Marvin’s eyes were locked on the gun.

“Oh come on, Jackie, you’re smarter than that,” Anti said, grinning. “How far will you get with a bullet in your leg? Not to mention all the rest of these lovely people who weren’t lucky enough to be standing by an entrance. Do you want them to feel the consequences of your actions?”

Jackie hesitated. Then, slowly, he backed away from the front door, grabbing Marvin and pulling him back as well. He turned to the others in the room with an apologetic expression on his face.

“Good. Now.” Anti then pointed the gun towards Schneep and Mina. “Drop that phone, Ms. Pfieffer.”

Mina gasped, her phone falling from her hands. The number pad was visible on the screen, with a single 9 dialed.

Anti’s eyes darted around the room, landing on each person. “In fact, all of you. Take your phones out. Take them out and kick them away from you.”

“You—you can’t shoot all of us,” Chase said weakly.

“I can,” Anti replied calmly. “Do you think there’s too many of you? Well, I’m sorry, but you’re mistaken. My trigger finger is faster than any of you can run. Drop your phones. No sudden movements.”

Not everyone moved at once, but they all did as he said. First Mina, then Jackie, Chase, Jack, Laurens, Jameson, and finally Marvin. Anti glanced down at the pile of smartphones in the center of the living room floor, counting them. “Seven,” he muttered, and looked back up and counted the people in the room. “Eight.”

“I-I-I’m sorry, I—” Schneep stammered. “I do not have—I was not—”

Anti laughed. “Oh, don’t worry, Henrik, I know. I’m not stupid.”

Schneep relaxed, but only slightly. He was shaking visibly. Mina reached back and grabbed his hand, squeezing tightly.

“What do you—” Laurens swallowed the sudden lump in her throat. “What do you want, Anti?”

“Oh, not much,” Anti said casually. “Just for one of you to come with me. Can you guess who?”

Silence. Anti noticed the eyes darting about, almost everyone looking back and forth between two people. With some exceptions. Schneep inhaled sharply, but then blinked. His eyes locked on Jameson. And Jameson...he didn’t look at anyone. His eyes were locked on Anti, his posture stiff with his hands behind his back. Anti laughed. “You were always smart, Jamie.”

“Jamie?” Marvin repeated, confused for a moment before realizing what the nickname was short for. His head snapped towards Jameson. “JJ, no, you can’t—”

“He certainly can,” Anti interrupted. “Especially with the alternative.”

Jameson said nothing. His expression was unreadable.

“...why?” Jack whispered. “Why...Jameson?”

“Hmm.” Anti glanced at him. “I forget, you’re out of the loop. Though apparently not as out of the loop as you should be. That’s my fault, really. I didn’t expect you to remember what I said while you were a vegetable.”

Jack paled, shrinking back into the chair as he attempted to make himself as small as possible.

“But it’s quite simple, actually,” Anti continued, now pointing the gun towards the center of the room, where it could easily aim at anyone. “I have to leave this city. Fucking sucks, really, giving up everything I built, but what can you do when the coppers are onto you? And, well, now that I know my brother is alive...” He laughed. “I’m not letting him leave again.”

You really shouldn’t care this much, Anti, Jameson finally spoke, taking his hand out from behind his back to sign. We haven’t seen each other in years.

“And whose fault is that?!” Anti suddenly screamed, and Jameson’s carefully guarded expression broke into instinctive fear as he flinched. “Who made me think you’d killed yourself?!”

I never intended to— Jameson started.

“Oh, so—so the note wasn’t meant to sound like that, was it?” Anti growled. “It was—The goodbye wasn’t supposed to sound so final, was it?” He shifted, pointing the gun directly at Jameson. “And your jacket in the river—th-that was just an accident, wasn’t it? Wasn't it? Not meant to look like you’d jumped? You weren’t expecting—weren’t planning on me running all through town, trying to find you, being so, so afraid of what you were planning, only to find that—that bit of cloth in th-the water, the rapid water, caught on a t-tr-tree? You didn’t think about what I’d assume?”

Jameson took a slow step back. The others in the room were silent, statues holding their breaths afraid to interrupt this outburst.

“You didn’t think—” Anti laughed hysterically. The gun trembled in his shaking hands. “You didn’t think about how I’d be—how I’d sit by the river crying for an hour? You didn’t t-think about what it would mean, when my o-only family left me like that? The only thing that kept me g-going, growing up in those shit towns with those motherfuckers who w-wanted the—who pocketed the foster money and left the k-kids to kill each other in gangs—the only thing that kept me going in those hells, kn-knowing that when I was old enough, I had real family that I h-had to look after. You were the only fucking thing I had! And you fucking left me alone! You let me bleed, you let me die! You made me try to follow you! And now...” He stopped, breathing heavily for a moment. “Now...you pretend like none of it mattered. The least you could do...is come with me.”

Jameson couldn’t say anything, left completely speechless by Anti’s rant. He stared at him, gaping, for a solid few seconds. Then, slowly, his expression became stone again, and he put his hands behind his back once more.

“Refusing to say anything?” Anti laughed. “You never...would have done that...before.” Suddenly, his spun and pointed the gun in a different direction. “You don’t f-f-fucking move.”

Laurens, who was slowly standing back up after crouching behind a chair, stopped mid-movement, awkwardly bent over. “Anti,” she said slowly. “I’m sorry you went through all that. But you can’t...you can’t make one person into this beacon of everything you need. That’s not...fair. To him. O-or to yourself. You’re making yourself dependent on something that doesn’t exist.”

“If I wanted a shrink, I would have—I-I-I would have—” Anti stopped, panting. “Just fuck off. I didn’t ask you.”

Then, Schneep, whose eyes had remained locked on Jameson, finally looked at Anti and spoke. “If there is anything—a-anything we can do, in exchange for you—leaving Jameson alone—”

“Henrik, no,” Chase said softly, looking back at him. “You’ve been through enough.”

“I appreciate the o-offer, Schneep,” Anti said, grinning mockingly. “But as fun as you were, i-it’s too much trouble to t-take more than one person with me.”

“H-how are you expecting this to work?” Schneep asked, his voice shaking yet refusing to look away from Anti. Mina inched further in front of him, but he leaned around her. “If Jameson leaves with you, you must know it will not be long before the police are after you. Or—or what if we try to follow you?”

“So d-desparate,” Anti sighed. “But I should expe-ect as much from you. Did you think I wouldn’t h-have a plan...for that?” He reached up and took off the backpack he was wearing—the one he had refused to take off while he’d pretended to be Jackie. While still pointing the gun at the room, he clumsily unzipped it, then unceremoniously dropped it on the floor. With a swift kick, he pushed the backpack into the center of the room, right near the pile of phones. The inside of the backpack was filled with wires and electronic parts. An LED screen poked out from the mess, reading “ARMED” in big red letters.

Jackie inhaled sharply. “Is that a fucking bomb?!”

“C-can’t tell you how long it...it took to put it together,” Anti laughed. “But I-I’ll say it’s not nearly as long as you—as you think.”

“What the fuck were you thinking?!” Marvin cried. “What if it went off while you were still here?!”

“Idiot,” Anti snapped. “I-I’m not stupid enough to mess with ex-explo-explos—with bombs that I don’t u-understand. Now listen up. This is how i-it’s going to w-work. Jamie and I are going to leave here. All of y-you are going to stay. If I see a-any of you come out of the house after us, I’ll t-trigger the bomb. Look at it closer for a moment. S-see the lens?” He gestured at the bomb, indicating a round glass lens amidst the wires. “Th-that’s a camera, it’s linked up to my phone. Even after I l-leave, I’ll be watching you. If any of you move from where y-you’re standing within the next...hour, then I’ll trigger i-it. Understa-and?”

Nobody said anything, but their expressions and tense posture was answer enough.

“Good.” Anti nodded. His hands were shaking, but his aim held steady. “Now. Jamie? The ch-choice is yours.”

Jameson stared at Anti. His stone expression had given way to pure fear, but he didn’t move.

“Leave him alone.” Schneep stepped forward. Anti immediately aimed the gun at him. He stopped, but didn’t back up. “You—you say the choice is his, but it is not really a choice, is it? You do not give people choices, you just pretend you do. When the alternative is to stand by and let people you care about be hurt, there is no real choice to be made.”

“You shut your—” Anti snarled.

“Nnno.”

Several gasps went around the room as Jameson spoke. Even Anti was surprised, looking back at Jameson with wide eyes.

Henrik is right, Jameson said. There was never a choice with you. There were only threats and lies. Your only desire is control, Aneirin. Control through any means possible. And I can understand why you want that, but you took it way too far too many years ago, and now you can’t stand when even the smallest thing refuses to go according to your desires.

“Jamie,” Anti said softly. “I—”

You can’t justify it, Jameson continued. You can’t say you just want to protect me. That went out of the window when you fucking kidnapped me all those months ago. In fact, it was out of the question from the moment you asked me to help hide a body. From the moment you said I had to stay, or else the police would catch me. Though, would you have minded if they did? It seems like a prison is just protection to you.

“I’m sorry—” Anti started.

No you’re not. Jameson shook his head. If you were, you wouldn’t continue to do it. You wouldn’t BE here if you were sorry, let alone bring a bomb with you. You’ve never given me any choice, Aneirin. And that’s why I had to leave. That’s why I had to be dead to you. I didn’t want it to look like a suicide. I thought it would seem like I fell into the river while running away. But the only way I could escape you is if you thought I couldn’t be reached. And the only way I couldn’t be reached—in your eyes, at least—was in death. Jameson stared directly at Anti, two pairs of blue eyes locked across a room. I’d ask you if you understand, but I don’t think you can anymore. It’s not an option for you. And because of that, we are no longer family. We haven’t been for years.

Anti’s chest rose and fell with heavy breaths. His hand was shaking significantly now, the muzzle of the gun pointing at anyone and everyone. “J-Ja-Jameson.” His voice was strangled. “You—you—y-you c-c-can’t—” Then his eyes shot wide open. He gasped. And like a puppet with its strings cut, he suddenly collapsed.

It was so sudden that most of the room remained where they were, confused and shocked. But two people burst into action. Jameson ran across the room, kneeling at Anti’s side. Quickly, he took the gun from his shaking hand, tossing it across the room and almost hitting Laurens, who instinctively ducked. Meanwhile, Schneep darted to the center of the room and gingerly grabbed the straps of the backpack with the bomb in it. He looked at Jameson. “Are you sure?” he asked.

Jameson gestured towards the front door. Schneep nodded, and broke into a run. He threw open the front door and dashed out to the street, carefully but swiftly dropping the backpack on the sidewalk before running back to the house. By the time he returned, some of the others had recovered. Jackie grabbed his phone from the pile and immediately dialed the  police. Mina ran around Jameson and Anti and blocked off the hallway with her body, preventing Anti from escaping down that way. Chase walked over to where the gun had fallen and picked it up. He turned it over in his hands, eyes widening as he recognized it.

“What—what just happened?” Marvin asked.

Jameson glanced back at him. Seizure, he signed, fast enough for the sign to be almost unrecognizable. Then he turned back to Anti, who was noticeably shaking, his arms and legs jerking. Jameson hesitated, assessing the situation, then looked at Chase. Give me your jacket, he said.

“Uh—what?—I mean, yeah.” Chase stammered, confused, but took his jacket off and handed it to him.

Jameson didn’t say thank you, merely balling up the jacket and putting it underneath Anti’s head.

“Wh...why is he seizing?” Laurens asked, inching closer.

He has them sometimes, Jameson explained. We were in a car accident as children, it did damage to both of us. The seizures used to be a lot more common, though. He stared down at Anti and sighed. Unlucky.

“I’d argue it’s extremely lucky,” Marvin muttered. “For us, I mean. I-I don’t know how we were...” He trailed off.

“You should not wish a seizing on someone,” Schneep said. “Shame on you.” Though his words rang a bit hollow, as he stared down at Anti and didn’t move.

This is a bad one, but it should be over in a minute or two, Jameson said. He glanced back at everyone else. So...what should we do?

Silence. Until Jack cleared his throat. “I mean, we shouldn’t—shouldn’t ignore it, but...we need to make sure he can’t...do anything. Maybe—maybe we can lock him in the closet?”

“Closet doesn’t have a lock,” Marvin said. “But we can move a chair in front.”

Meanwhile, Jackie was still on the phone. “I-I don’t know, we moved it outside,” he was saying. “Now the guy is having a seizure. I don’t—No, he seems alright. So far. What should we do?” He paused. Then he looked at the others. “Do we have handcuffs or something?”

“Jackie, really, this is my house,” Marvin said. “But—I can grab a scarf from my room or something. Oh, Mina, actually, you’re closer. It’s the last door down the hall, can you—?”

“On it,” Mina said, and turned to run down the hall.

“Yeah, we can do that,” Jackie said, returning to the phone conversation. “How close are you?” He paused. “Okay. Okay. Should I stay on the line?” Another pause. “Okay, I will, then.”

Anti had stopped shaking. Now the only movement was the rise and fall of his chest. Jameson reached over and rolled him onto his side. Anti still didn’t move. His eyes—one real, one glass—drifted upwards, landing on Jameson’s face. Jameson didn’t say anything. But he didn’t look away.

——————

It was a while before everything calmed down. As soon as Jameson said it was okay to move him, Mina and Marvin grabbed Anti and put him in the closet, tying his wrists behind his back with a scarf and shoving a chair in front of the door. They also took away his phone, recalling what he said about it linking up to the bomb.

The police arrived soon after that, with the bomb squad in tow. They quickly escorted Anti to a squad car and instructed everyone else to stay in the house, far away from the bomb. The whole group watched from the front windows, on edge and waiting for the sudden explosion. Luckily, a few minutes later, the police officer working on the bomb stepped back, it having been properly defused. They then took the bomb away, and a couple officers approached the house to ask what happened. It was a long story, but ended with the group telling the police to contact Detective Nix for more information, as this was related to a case he was working on.

After it all, everyone found themselves alone, sprawled on the floor and furniture of the living room. Nobody said anything for a long, long time.

Until someone started laughing.

“Who the fuck...?” Chase lifted his head, looking around. “Marvin?”

“Why d’you go to me?” Marvin grumbled.

“Because it’s a guy, but Jackie and Schneep are out of it and that’s not Jack’s laugh,” Chase said. “Oh...that really only...leaves one other, though.”

Everyone looked towards the corner. Sure enough, Jameson was laughing. Sitting on the floor, laughing hard enough that tears were coming from his eyes. Then those tears increased. The laughter turned uneven, and soon he was crying.

Schneep shook his head, returning to reality. He stood up from the chair he was sitting in, only to drop down to the floor next to Jameson. “Is everything okay?” he asked quietly.

Jameson nodded, wiping his eyes with his sleeve.

“Do you...need anything?” Schneep asked.

Jameson didn’t know how to answer that, so he just shrugged.

“Hmm.” Schneep scooted closer. After a moment, Jameson leaned against him, drained but still crying softly. “We will just be quiet then, yes? Unless you want to listen to voices speaking.”

I’m fine, thank you, Jameson signed shakily. He closed his eyes, utterly exhausted. One word echoed in his mind.

‘Finally.’

[judgedreddthelaw]

Black Female Warlock Guardian x Shiro-4 (18+)

Part 3 A

You- purple

Shrio- orange

Amanda- green

Taking breaths, as you look at Shiro beckoning with your finger to hither your way, you try to sway your figure to give him a little show as you walk to show him you want him to follow. Taking the hint, he follows you into down the stairs towards the Hangar and you get to the corner of where you enter the area, you turn to him kissing his “cheek” and whispering, “Let me check on the progress of my sparrow real quick and you should say hi to Amanda too, after that we can go to my ship.”……… “ Yeah, I like that.” He presses his mouth plate on your lips, he is desperately wishing he had real lips and a tongue at this moment so he could enjoy the feeling of really kissing you, that didn’t matter to you because you still enjoyed it either way, because its Shiro and you love him. As yo two go into the hangar you noticed there was nobody but Amanda and one other person. You guys figured that everyone had time off to enjoy the festivities.“Hey Amanda!”…….. “Hey girl!……………Oh, my god is that Shiro-4?!!!!!……….get over here and give me a hug you asshole!” ………. They hug and your heart warms at the sight because everyone missed him and if he ever thought that nobody cared you could remind him of this day, when other guardians who new him talked to him when we were on the way to the party. After they hug Amanda put a nice but not hard punch into his arm. “Dude why haven’t you called anybody to let us know how you are?”……. “Yeah sorry Amy……things happen and you know scouts honor can’t tell you, if i told you id have to kill ya.” …….. “Ha ha ha very funny, anyways Y/n complains about you constantly.”…….You gasp and make a click noise with your tongue. “(You blush)No I don’t!”……… She gives you a smug look “Do to.”……….. You put your tongue out to her like a little kid would do if they couldn’t win their argument. “So what can I do for you folks, this fine evening?”……. “Just wondering what the status is on my sparrow, plus wanted to say hi.”……… “Well, unfortunately your sparrow is going to take a few days luck for you, you have the next week off, and since you never brought it in for any repairs for about 4 months now?! That’s very dangerous I don’t need to remind you girl.”………. “(You rolled your eyes) It was fine I didn’t think it was a big deal, sorry.”……… “You’re lucky you’re my best bud.”…………you go behind Amanda for a hug on her shoulders and she accepts “Aright now, don’t get all mushy on me.”……….. “Your the best!”…….. “Yeah I know.(winking at you)” …….. “Well, we won’t keep you from working….we will be in my ship if you need me.” Amanda gives you a salute signaling she understands.You and Shiro walk forward until you forgot something, you tell shiro to stay there for a sec, going back to Amanda “Oh, hey if you do swing by could you, you know warn me first?” She looks at you her eyes start to go wide and forming in what’s looks like a shit eating grin on her face and her cheeks blushing at the indication you gave her. “Don’t give me “THE face”.”………… “Whaaaaaaat face?”………she smiles at like the Cheshire Cat in Alice in Wonderland…. “THAT face!” Wiggling her brow at you, “Oh don’t worry about my face, it’s your face you gotta worry about when he(she is making humping motions with her hips)pounding that ass.” You look at her in horror and madly blushing like a red plastic party cup. “Stop that…… (you shush her)….He’ll hear you stop that!”(you laugh) Giving her a fake mad look because you thought of telling her that wasn’t going to happen but it totally was. “It was nice seeing you again shiro!!!!”shouting back at him ……….. “You too!”…….…… Completely embarrassed you look at her somewhat sternly. “Just let me know.”……. “Don’t worry girl I won’t interrupt I am curious though don’t leave any details out.”

You smile at her patting her shoulder “Okay, perv.” She chuckles at you as you turn back walking to Shiro. “All good?” You nod your head and intertwining your hands, you lead him in the direction of your ship. You had Rose messaged him 3 weeks ago you traded your “Bird of Peace” in for a “Ossified Skycarver”. He whistles at the sight of the ship “Wow, it looks awesome and it’s big, it’s the Skycarver you messaged me about recently yeah?.”………. “Yeah there it is.”……….You are staring at it in awe and still impressed by this ship and you’ve had it for 3 weeks now. Shiro interrupted your train of thought with him going behind you with his arms wrapped around your waist pushing his slightly chilled mouth plate into your neck that gives you a chill in your bones, but feels nice since it’s him. You hum into the embrace enjoying yourself. He whispered in your ear “I want you to only think of me tonight, no thinking about anyone not even that guy Erin.”…….. “You mean Eric?” You look up at his face and he moves his plates to your lips again. “I wasn’t thinking about anyone since you…..(you reach behind you running your hand down palming his package)…..basically dry humped against me on the dance floor in front of everyone.”…………he speaks into your neck again………“Babe, I guarantee nobody was paying attention.”

[viviennevermillion]

Eating instant ramen at 2am

notes: starting to write on my own whim for a while and this is the first idea I had, idk what this says about me but I have dated before and I can confirm that this is definitely a bonding experience

characters included: riddle rosehearts, leona kingscholar, idia shroud, malleus draconia

contains: character x gn!reader

warnings: none

Riddle is....not amused with this idea. Absolutely not on board with this.

His mum didn't even allow him to eat strawberry tarts, there's no way he ever even got close to instant ramen. He was told fast food and instant food was the devil's invention

He's so sceptical. Literally looks at you like "We shouldn't even be in the kitchen at this time, we should be fucking asleep what are you doing to my poor schedule?!"

The reason he is in this predicament is that you couldn't sleep and had him resting in your lap but at some point became too hungry to even try and fall asleep comfortably so you wanted to get up and grab a snack, unfortunately waking your slumbering boyfriend in the process.

So he decided to accompany you to the kitchen because you could never remember which foods were needed for following the rules of the Queen of Hearts accordingly and which were fine to just snack.

He sat down at the table and his eyes wandered to the fruit plate. But you had other plans, opening the cupboard and pulling out two plastic cups with instant ramen.

"I didn't even plan to eat anything. Also is this your idea of a midnight snack??", Riddle looked at you with a shocked expression. "Not midnight, 2am", you argued, ripping the lid off the cup noodles and turning on the water boiler. "That doesn't make it better, you know", Riddle buried his face in his hands, "actually that only makes it worse."

You chuckled and poured water onto the noodles. Riddle is like "what are you doing why are you making two 🤦🏻‍♀️" and you just grin at him.

He's very conflicted because on one hand he grew up being told he shouldn't eat food like this but it was also a rule not to throw away food. According to your opinion that made it a loophole. Not that you encouraged him to keep sticking to his mother's rules anyway but Riddle had to take small steps.

He eventually begrudgingly eats them and noticed they don't actually taste as badly as he's been told. Still not healthy but he wasn't planning to eat them again anytime soon.

"This would get me into so much trouble at home", he stated. "So would dating me and you still decided to do it", you shrugged. Mrs. Rosehearts had no idea her son had fallen in love. Or overblotted. Or broken several of her rules. "You know that's different", Riddle pouted. "It's not", you argued and gave him fingerguns. He just shook his head in disappointment but kept eating, hoping no one would come into the kitchen who he'd have to explain this to. Then again he was the dorm leader. No one remembered all the rules anyway he could just make up a new one to justify this.... NO. What was he thinking? Lying about the rules was against the rules, why was he even considering making up rules?!

"You're a bad influence", he sighed, still wearing a pouting expression on his face but grabbed your hand across the table and held it in his own. "And yet you love me", you winked at him and he chuckled. "That I do", Riddle affirmed and pressed a kiss to your hand.

"We should add 'You shouldn't have an existential crisis over cup noodles on a Saturday' to the rules", you mused and Riddle just rolled his eyes at you but had to admit that this was exactly the type of thing that the Queen of Hearts would put into her rules.

He enjoyed the instant ramen but he would never admit that over his dead body

Leona eats instant ramen regularly. He's kinda torn because yes, they barely have any vegetables but they also barely have any meat. But they're the fastest warm meal he can easily make, so they'll work well with his unmotivated and depressed mood.

This is a habit he definitely started after coming to NRC because at the palace the food was prepared for him by the staff. He was sceptical too at first because how could you prepare noodles like this in just 5 minutes but his lack of motivation eventually got the better of him and he tried them and found them acceptable.

Leona is very protective of you so sometimes when you remove his arms around you and get up he actually wakes up. "Where are you going herbivore?", he mumbles, half-asleep. When you tell him you're going to make yourself some instant ramen he just asks you to bring some for him too. You just hoped he'd still be awake by the time it was done.

Leona usually has no problem preparing easy things like this for you and bringing you food but nothing gets this man out of bed at 2am that isn't necessarily a catastrophe or you suffering in any way so you'll have to be the one to go to the kitchen this time.

Leona generally sleeps shirtless because Savanaclaw dorm is so warm and also he likes having you snuggle against his chest and feeling your warm skin against his, so you raise your eyebrows at him when he only sits up halfway and eats the noodles with a spoon. "This looks like a disaster waiting to happen." "Only if you're stupid enough to spill the fucking water", he replies with a grumpy tone. You chuckle and affectionately scratch his ears before eating your own cup of ramen.

Even though it's 2am and you're eating instant ramen he asks you "How are you enjoying your meal?", like you're in a 5 star restaurant and gives you a smirk.

If he's done earlier than you he'll stick his spoon into your ramen and eat part of yours as well and you just look at him like "seriously?!"

"First you steal my heart and now you steal my instant noodles, what do I even get out of this relationship?", you tease him and he presses a kiss to your neck and his tail flicks from side to side. "You get my love and affection", he says and wraps his arms around you while letting you finish the rest of your cup.

You're about to get up to throw the empty cups into the trash can under Leona's desk as he holds you back and places them on the nightstand and pulls you back into his arms to snuggle. "Ruggie will clean these up in the morning." "You're so questionable sometimes", you sigh but Leona just chuckles and decides to shut you up with kisses.

His kisses become more and more lazy until he's asleep holding you in his embrace again.

Another one who eats instant noodles regularly. Probably even more often than Leona. If you like eating them, chances are this is already a ritual.

When Idia plays video games or watching streams until late at night, he often eats instant noodles when he needs a snack because it's very quickly prepared.

He keeps the cup noodles in his room and Ortho has a built-in water boiling function so you don't even need to go to a kitchen for this.

At some point you actually convince him to try and cook dinner with you but the only things Idia knows about cooking are from anime cooking ASMR's so he kinda fucks the soup up.

So you decide to just make instant noodles again later.

Idia has favorite instant ramen brands and flavors and sometimes you convince him to go to Sam's shop with you and he goes through the shelves and is like "this one is my favorite" and "oh they brought back the limited edition one"

He's literally excited to eat them

When he plays games or streams as well as when you eat cup noodles he lets you sit on his lap of course. While you wait for the noodles to get ready he places kisses onto your neck and wraps his arms around your waist and affectionately draws circles onto your stomach or thighs with his fingertips. Or lets you bury your face in his oversized shirts

These are usually the moments where you share some of your inside jokes.

Idia loves to stay up with you late and just joke around and share his passions with you. Man's thriving.

Excessively comments on the taste of the noodles like he's a famous food critic and you just watch him amused. "This one doesn't taste like it used to" or "As always this brand brings me a lot of joy when I play games".

He lets you try from his cup too if you've never tried that kind before

Usually finishes his instant noodles before you so he'll be clinging to you and placing kisses onto your neck and shoulders. Sometimes he'll nibble on your skin.

"Idia I'm eating." "This is eating with heightened difficulty level."

Idia is just super affectionate at 2am. He's used to your warmth and affection, he's not letting go of you just for eating, that'd be colder and less comfortable and he'd probably complain until you give him a kiss and let him snuggle up to you again

Also one who doesn't throw away the cups until the next morning. Or Ortho throws them into the trash. One of those two options.

Malleus doesn't even know what instant noodles are.

Baffled. Perplexed. Fascinated. His mind is blown.

Malleus barely even sleeps so when he notices you waking up in his arms he'll press his lips to yours to wake you with a soft kiss.

You two hadn't eaten much for dinner because it was Lilias cooking. You explain to him that you're hungry and feel like eating a cup of instant ramen and he's like

"What is instant ramen?"

Congratulations, you just opened an entirely new can of worms

You tell him it'd be easier to just show him and lead him to the kitchen. Malleus holds your hand all the way and he's curious what you're going to show him.

He watches you silently as you take the cups from the shelves, boil water, pour the boiling water onto the noodles and stir. He's so intrigued. It's like that time he first took a car at Scalding Sands, he's just silent and looks at you with his surprised Malleus face™.

Convinced this is similar to witchcraft and potion-making and you don't have the heart to tell him that it's cheap, questionable industrial production.

He will go on and on about how incredible it is that you can prepare a meal like this and can't wait to try it out

Genuinely loves the cup noodles and comments on how tasty they are

When he learns there are different kinds he definitely wants to try them. Also wants a second cup of noodles right then and there because there wasn't much in his compared to how much Malleus usually eats. And how could you say no to his cute surprised face?

You can't help but chuckle at how confused and fascinated he is by this

He also asks you whether you're enjoying your meal like you're at a 5 star restaurant but unlike Leona he actually says this completely unironically.

He also treasures if you just talk to him about whatever crosses your mind while eating the noodles. He appreciates the casual atmosphere and holds your hand.

Instant noodles actually become one of his favorite foods and Sebek has half a heart attack when he finds out you made instant ramen of all things for the great Prince Malleus of Briar Valley.

Meanwhile Malleus is just pouting when he's told how unhealthy they are. He's an overpowered immortal dragon fae, this isn't gonna hurt him. Sebek doesn't comment on this afterwards. He respects Wakasamas decision.

Lilia is very amused by this. He's pleased that Malleus is discovering something so simple and human for himself.

Malleus wonders whether Lilia would be able to make instant ramen or whether it would just taste like his usual food

He also mails them to his grandma at some point

Definitely buys them more often now

[szallejhscorner]

Hi!!!! How are you doing? I hope everything is going well!

I have a request and if you cloud write it, it would be amazing!… we know Chishiya doesn’t cook, so I guess that he buys bentos everyday to go to work. Imagine that after him and the reader moved together, she, everyday gets up earlier than him to make him bentos… how do you think he would react? After all I don’t think he ever had someone to do that to him, like home cooked meals after he became an adult.

If you can’t write it, it’s totally fine! Love you!! 🥰

Hello Nonny (:

So sorry that you had to wait so long for this to be finished! 

I started this request already before the break, but I couldn’t finish it then, so this is the first thing I did after coming back. Hope you like it (:

The Bento Box

Chishiya’s inability to cook has never been a secret to you. He doesn’t really care for the kind of food landing on his plate as long as it’s edible and quick to make, and it had been frustrating at first when you spent hours in the kitchen to prepare a fantastic multi-course meal for him and he’d appreciate it as much as cup ramen. 

By now you have accepted that this is just one of Chishiya’s traits that he’ll probably never get rid off, and it’s fine. What’s not fine however is that he still keeps buying those horrible premade bento-boxes for work, and while most cup ramen dishes taste okay, those bentos definitely don’t. They are worse than chewing on plastic, and you have no idea how Chishiya has managed to eat those daily over several years now. This man might be a culinary nitwit, but you won’t allow him to stick to this crime for any longer.

You decide that it has to stop when you find a wonderful bento-box in the small store around the corner, made out of bamboo and painted with cute little strawberries, although decent enough not to look girlish. Strawberries are one of Chishiya’s greatest loves, and he has wasted enough one-way packages that have been made without any love.

With the bento-box in your backpack, you stop at the grocery to grab the essentials for your plan, sushi rice, vegetables and fish, careful not to choose those things that you know Chishiya dislikes.

And since Chishiya isn’t home when you arrive at your apartment, you have plenty of time to make preparations: cook the sushi rice, make the tuna maki he likes to eat, and cook and cut the vegetables before you stow them in the fridge. He won’t throw a look inside anyway because you have already prepared dinner for today, and all he does when he gets back from work is ask why you’re grinning all the time.

Getting up early isn’t always easy, even more since you decided to get up earlier than Chishiya. He’s a light sleeper, so you’re extra-cautious to leave bed without waking him up and carefully close the door behind you before you allow the huge yawn to come out. The plan is to go back to bed once you’re done here and sleep for a couple of hours more before you have to prepare for your own work.

Thanks to your preparations on the day before, the bento doesn’t take too long to make. You place the maki next to little cucumber hearts and use little pieces of nori to turn the onigiri into grinning panda bears relaxing in a pool of fried chicken with chives covering it all like tiny leaves on a pond. Because you have been told that one of the most important parts with making a bento is the love you arrange it with, and you definitely put all the love you feel for Chishiya into this tiny little box. It might look childish to him, pathetic even, but that’s fine. You make sure to place it on the counter and put his keys on top of it so he will know immediately it’s for him.

Chishiya definitely won’t have to buy a cheap and nasty bento today.

When you scramble back into the warm bed, the man next to you has just begun to shift and is close to waking up. With a smile on your face, you snuggle up next to him and soon fall back to sleep.

-

The bento box is the first thing you notice when you come home from work. It is carefully placed next to the sink, and what surprises you the most - it has already been cleaned. Chishiya doesn’t do the dishes. Never.

And he doesn’t talk about the bento, no ‘thank you’ or other words of appreciation. Not that you’d have expected any; the fact that he cleaned the box is more than enough for you. And despite the shift being stressful like usual, Chishiya seems more relaxed today. It could be a coincidence, but you like to think it has something to do with the bento you did for him.

You continue this for several days, always getting up early in the morning or staying up late in the evenings to prepare something for Chishiya, which is easier to do when he has to work late shift but still hard enough since he doesn’t sleep long in any case. Sometimes you switch the tuna maki with salmon or beef, sometimes it’s cat onigiri instead of pandas. The love you put into making the bento always stays the same, and you’d always find it next to the sink and already cleaned afterwards.

One morning, after you went to bed before Chishiya returned from his shift, you find the bento box not only cleaned but with a chocolate muffin placed on top, and what’s even more surprising: the coffee brewer has already been put on and is almost ready now that you’re awake. You turn around to the kitchen table, where Chishiya already sits and sips his tea while reading the newspapers. This is one of the rare days where he doesn’t have to work, which also means that you don’t have to prepare a bento.

“I assume you didn’t bake this one yourself?” you ask with a grin, and the man in question answers with a similar smirk. 

“You assumed right.” He flips a page, and you are about to ask further when he gives you the information himself. “It was a co-worker’s birthday. She brought them and said she didn’t want to take home a single one, so I took one for you too.”

That makes much more sense, of course. The muffin really looks delicious, with a soft chocolate core and white chips covering the top, and you sit down opposite to Chishiya as soon as your coffee is ready. Biting into the small cakelet, you hum in delight since it tastes even better than it looks. 

“Chishiya, this is wonderful!”

He shrugs, mostly unimpressed by the noises you make. “Told you it’s not from me.”

“But you thought about me when you took this home, and I appreciate that. And the coffee is great as well.” You reach for his hand and squeeze it, finally causing Chishiya to look you in the eye. 

His eyes are on top of the list of things you love the most when it comes to Chishiya. They’re not just a simple brown; you always find a profundity in them, and even after years of being in a relationship with this man, they are still able to hold mysteries sometimes. Although this morning, the words he speaks are an even greater surprise to you. 

“It’s little compared to... you know.”

The indirect mention of the bento-boxes makes your heart skip a beat. Is he actually thanking you for the daily effort? You know he loves them without a word from his side, thus it means so much more when he addresses it. “You mean the bentos?”

Chishiya nods and sips on his tea, but his eyes still rest on yours. 

“I’m glad you like them. Couldn’t let you eat those carton-flavored bentos all the time!” This makes both of you chuckle, and you focus on your phone to scroll through the most recent social media news. This has been more conversation than you usually have until high noon, since Chishiya really needs some silence in the morning and you appreciate it too now and then. All you hear for a couple of minutes is the sound of pages being flipped and you sipping the coffee. 

“I have never had something that good.”

Your head jolts up and for a moment you’re sure that it has been a sound coming from your phone, even more since Chishiya seems to be focused on the newspapers. But it definitely didn’t come from your phone, and you blink a few times until you can accept that Chishiya has actually said this. 

Once more you place your hand above his, and his fingers close around yours immediately. You will probably never hear it again, and Chishiya won’t repeat himself. But you have heard it, and that’s all what counts. 

He likes the bento-boxes you make for him. 

This alone is enough for you to keep doing it for the person you love the most.