#sorry if this isn't bright enough i had to hold myself back with that light gray

[calware]

@halsaph this was such a trust the process moment for me but i like how fun it ended up coming out

[spncvr]

worries | s. reid

summary: you worry for spencer, it's human

pairing: spencer reid x reader

warnings: TENDING WOUNDS TROPE HELLO, hurt/comfort, mentions of death, blood (in a metaphorical way ???) ENGLISH ISN'T MY FIRST LANGUAGE PLS BEAR WITH ME, lowkey kinda sappy, reader kinda cries, like, alot, lmk if i missed anytihg !

a/n: tryying desperately to force myself out of my writers block so here's a WIP i forcedmyself to finish (its 1 am rn bye). send me requests??for??ideas?? i beg.

THE SMALL LIGHT BULB that dangles from the ceiling casts a soft glow on everything it touches. The light, never quite bright enough for your liking (you never got around to changing it) bathes the room in a gentle hue, softening the edges of the couch, carpet and shelves. That akin to the way it bleeds against his skin, with this kind of grace that seems to make scars on his face look kind and soft. 

“Hold still,” you chide, trying to clean the wound on his eyebrow; a harsh reminder of the day’s chaos. And when he does you mumble, “You’re such an idiot.”

His response is a small smile that sits against his lips, warm and understanding. His hands gently find their place on your thighs, grounding you as you straddle him “Yeah, I know,” he says.

“You shouldn’t’ve just … lunged at him like that.” It’s a plea wrapped in a scold. 

You duck your head down to avoid his careful eyes. You think, if he can’t see you, he can’t properly read you; a futile attempt, really. But still,  you think, if he can’t see the worry within your eyes he’d just let it go; that he wouldn’t know that you couldn’t help but think, what if, the unsub had gotten the upper hand, and what if it was much worse than just a measly cut on his eyebrow. These thoughts, the feelings, seem to constantly plague your mind in your darkest moments; ones that would make you feel like your heart is pouring out your chest, like rose thorns poking at your ribcage, that’ll bleed you dry with worry.

“What’s wrong?”His voice is soft, laced with concern, and it breaks through your defenses. The fingers that were on your thigh are now under your chin, coaxing you to look up at him, a silent entreaty for your honesty. His gaze is now on yours, stagnant and unwavering—and your lips start to quiver, and tears threaten to spill. Quickly, you hide your face into his shoulder.

“I’m scared,” you admit, your words are barely a whisper.

“Of what?” 

“I’m terrified for you.” your words are muffled in his shirt “What if—” you say, helpless, “What if it was more than just a cut on your eyebrow Spence, what if I— when—” you can’t finish your sentence. Not when he’s rubbing your back and kissing your head so softly and so kindly it makes the tears from your eyes spill and paint soft patches on his shirt. 

“You won’t,” he tells you with a conviction, that he wears so effortlessly like his own skin, “I won’t. I’m not leaving you.”

“You can’t say that,” you protest weakly, “you can’t know that. Look at Stephen he— God, Spence. You of all people know that you can’t possibly know that—”

“Hey, no,” he scolds quietly. 

But you're already looking at him, your face off from his shoulder. “Don’t tell me not to worry. Don’t tell me I can’t talk like that. You’re my boyfriend. It’s apart of caring. I should worry for you, so let me worry. It wouldn’t be human not to.”

“I know,” he says, soothingly, then, “I’m sorry.”

You wipe your tears frantically with your arm before continuing to tend his cut. “I wish the FBI had force fields around their agents.” you say, through a small smile, “Wish they could wrap you up with thick blankets.” It’s a childish thought.

His laughter is kind and genuine, it fills the space between the two of you, “Yeah?”

“Yeah.” you nod with a smile that finds its way through your tears.

“You take such good care of me,” he says, eyes never leaving yours.

Maybe it was his words or the way it had slipped from his tongue; maybe it was how his fingers, rough and calloused,  had grazed against your delicate ones. But here, as he sits with a smile on his lips, (a lopsided lazy thing), all scarred and bruised, did you know that you love him. But love was a concept you had cared for and attended to. You loved your mother, your friends. You loved books and their characters. You loved the darkness, the night. You loved your job, and its challenges. You loved music and movies. You loved home, and it's all too familiar feeling against your skin. And suddenly this concept —love— seems too small, too narrow to encompass what you feel for him. There isn’t a word or phrase made —nor did you think there ever would be— to describe just how much you had felt for him.

But in short, you do love him, very much.

[thisfrailheart]

prompt: time | august 14 | rosekiller au | M - language/swearing | word count: 666 | @rosekillermicrofic

***

They had just watched Anna find her dying brother in the forest when Evan feels it. A small tremor under his fingertips. Evan turns to Barty next to him. He seems relaxed; head tilted back against the couch, eyes closed. The light from the TV flickers across his face and there's a tiny smile.

Evan glances down. At some point during the movie, their simple handholding had progressed. He'd pulled Barty's hand into his lap and was now softly caressing his boyfriend's skin. Touching his palm, his wrist, stroking the inside of his arm. But something's happening.

Evan's fingers still on Barty's arm. "Are you cold?"

Barty opens his eyes and looks over and even though it's dark in the living room, Evan can tell that he's confused. "No?"

"You're shivering. And you've got goosebumps," Evan says. Points at Barty's arm.

"Oh, uh…" Barty hesitates.

"B?"

"Feels nice. When you touch me."

"Oh." Evan's stomach drops. Feels nice. When you touch me. So that's why Barty...he likes it. His heart starts pounding. Just a few months in and here it is. It always happens eventually, this conversation. The question for more. Evan's throat feels tight. Feels nice. When you touch me. Because he doesn't do that a lot. And when he does, it's not enough, it's never enough and he's—

"I'm sorry," he says. Pulls his hands away.

"I— what?" Barty sits up, tries to reach for him. "Why are you apologizing?"

Evan shakes his head, moves out of the way.

"Evan, what's going on? Fuck, where's the bloody remote, I—"

Barty pauses the movie, then goes to turn the lights back on. Evan blinks against the brightness, it stings. His heart hurts. This is the breakup that might just break him. He's never felt like this before. Safe.

"Hey. Talk to me?"

Barty's back on the couch with him, his knee bouncing. Evan's fingertips are tingling. Warning him about a panic attack. He swallows, tries to keep his heartbeat from skyrocketing.

"I'm sorry that I don't— That I don't do that— I know it's not enough, that you want more. You deserve more and I'd understand if you—"

"Hold on—"

"—want to break up because it's not enough. I'm so sorry."

The silence is loud. The tingling has moved up Evan's forearms.

"You want to break up?" Barty asks, face ashen.

Evan's throat burns. "No! No, I—"

"Why say that then?" Barty's knee bounces faster.

"I thought you'd want— Because I—"

Barty's knee stops bouncing. Evan can tell he's getting upset. "Because you don't touch my dick? I've got two hands, I can do that myself—"

"Yeah, but—"

"No. Listen to me. Are you listening?" Barty says.

Evan nods.

"When I say that I like it when you touch me, it's because I do. Because I like you. Because I like spending time with you. Sitting here, watching movies and holding hands. I like it when we kiss. When you hold me at night. Yes, I like it when you touch me but not because I want more. It's because it's you. Nobody touches me the way you do. Nobody makes me feel safe the way you do."

Oh. Evan isn't sure what to say. All this time he'd been looking for someone who'd make him feel safe. Wouldn't pressure him or leave as soon as they realize that they can't talk him into anything. He'd never thought that he might be that safe person for someone else. Never considered that someone else could be searching for the same thing he was looking for.

Evan opens his mouth. Closes it again. Still isn't sure what to say. He grabs Barty's hand instead. Pulls it back into his lap. Sighs, relieved. Barty does, too.

"So... Since we're not breaking up... Wanna finish the movie?" Barty asks, tension leaving his body as Evan holds his hand.

Evan smiles. Begins stroking the back of Barty's hand and finally finds his voice again. "Yeah. Let's finish the movie."

[confused-gender]

Monsters PT2

Summary: You survived for so long. The yautja came to clear out the xenomorphs and to find you.

Warnings: slight swearing.

It's been six months since Du'sa saved me from death and brought me to his home planet only to figure out that his mission to save me was supposed to fail all because Jeanette wanted me dead and not alive. Still can't believe she tried to kill me after me being here for only an hour. I sigh as I look out of my huts window. Du'sa thought it would be best if I lived in my own hut. Guess he doesn't like having guests stay with him long. I shake my head and walk away from the window. Okay, what are my plans for today. Du'sa gave me the day off from training since we just got back from a hunt a few days ago. It went incredibly well. I've been on multiple hunts in these past few months, but that wasn't until after my training with Du'sa was deemed good enough. Although I was human, I was still regarded as one of the best hunters this planet has seen. They respected me, and I respected them. I was pulled away from thoughts when a knock was heard. I look over and see the elder at my door. I bow in respect to him and kindly greet him. "Hello, Vi-Zata. What brings you here today?" I asked him. He smiles at me, and I motion for him to come in. "Came to see my favorite kv'var-de." He spoke. I gave him another look and let out a chuckle. "You know me too well, Oomani-di. I've noticed how no one has tried to court you." He said with a small smile. I look at him confused. Court me? What does that mean? Like try to date me? "I don't understand Vi-Zata. Court me? Why would someone want to do that?" I asked him.

He tilts his head out of curiosity and lets out a chuckle. "Oomani-di, you make me laugh. So many of my yeyin sain'jas are hulij-bpe about you." He spoke. My face immediately became bright red from what he had told me. "How many brave warriors are we talking about here? Why would they be crazy about me?" I ask in a shy tone. He just shrugs and goes to leave. "Wait, Vi-Zata, you can't just drop all of this on me and expect me to be okay with this." I said to him angrily. He ignored me and waved goodbye as he walked out of my hut. I shook my head and quickly followed after him. "Vi-Zata please hold on a minute!" I yell to him, but he disappeared in the busy street. Son of a bitch. I should have known he was only coming to visit to leave me confused or angry. That man loves bothering me. I groaned and looked around. Maybe I can talk to Du'sa about this? I'm hoping he's home and can spread some light on what Vi-Zata was talking to me about. I begin to walk towards his hut where only to walk into someone. "Sorry." I say quickly. I went to walk around but a hand on my arm stopped me. I looked to see one of the trackers from my previous hunt. "Oomani-di, do you have a moment?" He asked me. I tilted my head and looked at him. "I have something to give you." He told me. Before I could say anything, I felt myself getting pulled away from him. "She doesn't want that gift." I hear a familiar voice say to him.

I turn my attention quickly to Du'sa. "How do you know she doesn't want my gift?!" I hear the other yautja ask angrily. "I'm right here! I don't need anyone speaking on my behalf!" I said loudly. They both stop looking at each other and then at me. I ripped my arm free of Du'sa's grip. "Oomani-di you don't understand what he means by giving you something." Du'sa said to me. I let out an annoyed sigh. I turn my attention to the yautja that had stopped me originally. "A-Bho'tath right now isn't the right time for a gift. Maybe come another time." I told him sweetly. He stared at me and then looked at Du'sa. "Is it because he's already started the process?" He asked me and tilted his head slightly. This in turn made me tilt my head in confusion. "What process? Look I don't know what's going on or why you're giving me something." I told him truthfully. A-Bho'tath clicks something to Du'sa before letting out a small laugh. He turned to me and presented a skull to me. What the fuck! I turn to Du'sa, who looks pissed at what was happening in front of him. His body rigid and his mandibles flaring. I turn my attention back to A-Bho'tath. "Uhm what is happening?" I asked genuinely confused. "He's trying to start the courting process." Du'sa said angrily. I looked at A-Bho'tath and give him a kind smile. "I do appreciate this but no thank you. You seem like a nice guy and all, but I don't know you well enough to give you the same feelings back." I told him. A-Bho'tath looked at me shocked that I rejected him. He got up in a huff and bumped roughly into Du'sa as he walked by. 

I quickly put my head down and walked out of the public's eye when I noticed some yautja staring at what was happening. I have never been more embarrassed and guilty than this before. My huts cloth door fluttered behind me from how fast I walked through it. I sat down on the couch and covered my face with my hands. Should I have just accepted the skull he presented to me? A soft knock came from the door of my hut. "Come in." I said quietly. "Can I get your help with something?" I hear Du'sa say softly. I uncovered my face and looked at Du'sa. My eyes widened with worry. I see a very beaten up Du'sa standing at my door. "Du'sa what happened?" I asked while rushing over to him. He lets out a soft chuckle and pats my head. "Do not worry too much about me, Oomani-di. I'll be fine." He said to me softly. I helped him to my couch and then quickly went to grab my first aid stuff. "Du'sa please tell me what happened!" I yelled from the bathroom. I quickly came back with the first aid kit in hand. I kneeled in front of him and opened the kit up. "It was a minor fight that's all. I wasn't going to let A-Bho'tath bump into me without putting him in his place." Du'sa spoke so nonchalant as if this was an everyday occasion. I mean I have seen yautja fight all the time but never have I seen anyone challenge Du'sa. I know they push each other as a challenge to fight and that means... "Please don't tell me it was over me." I said just above a whisper. I was afraid that my thought was true. "Oomani-di I think we both know the answer to that." He told me softly. Oh... so I'm the reason why he's hurt. I felt my eyes water. I started to clean the small cuts he had on his body and tried to distract my mind with the task at hand. I tried my best to not cry, but a few tears slipped out. Once I was satisfied with my work and patching him up, I quickly packed the first aid kit up. 

When I went to get up, I felt Du'sa place a hand gently on my shoulder. I didn't dare to look at him as more tears escaped from my eyes. I didn't want him to think I was upset with him or anything when, in reality, I was upset that I was the one who caused him harm. I should have just accepted the gift, and none of this would have happened. "(Y/n)... Look at me." I hear Du'sa say softly. I refused to look at him. I don't want him to see me crying over him like this. "(Y/n) look at me." Du'sa said sternly. I shook my head. I couldn't look at him, and even if I wanted to, I wouldn't look him in the eyes. I feel his hand gently grab my chin so he could turn me to look at him. Once our eyes met, I felt the tears freely fall down my cheeks. "Come here." He speaks. He pulls me off my knees and on to his lap. He held me tightly to him while he was purring to calm me. "(Y/n)... I'm fine I came to my favorite doctor to patch me up. It was a minor fight for me. If anything, A-Bho'tath looks worse." He tells me with a small chuckle. "Du'sa but you still had a fight with him over me. I'm not worth fighting over." I told him seriously. I gave him a serious look, and he matched. "My mate is worth fighting over, actually. I'm not going to let anyone try and steal you from me. You said it from day one that I'm your protector." He spoke. Wait, what? 

Did he just call me his mate? I didn't mean mate when I called him my protector. "I... huh?" I couldn't even figure out what to say to him. The words jumbling up from the anxiety that is now coursing through my body. He chose me over the many females who have thrown themselves at him. "Why me?" Was the only thing I could think of to ask him. He tilts his head a bit confused on what I had asked. "Why me? Why not one of the many female yautja that are all over you? I'm not as strong or even as powerful as those ladies are. I probably wouldn't be able to carry your pups. I-." He cuts me off by putting his hand up. "Oomani-di I do not care about those other females. I knew from the moments my eyes landed on you for the first time that I had to make you mate. You survived for years with those xenomorphs and somehow outsmarted them. Even after I told you to stay put you still left and tried to survive out in the woods. You somehow avoided three of us. You literally put your scent in a different direction to put us off your trail for a bit. The females here don't have my attention like you do. I don't care if you can give me a pup or not. You're the only thing that matters to me. You accepted the skull I gave you in a heartbeat which means you have accepted me as your mate." He tells you. I looked at him confused for a moment as I racked my brain for a skull, he gave me. "Wait are you talking about that bird like skull you gave me?" I asked him. He nods his head. I felt more confused because to me I thought it was just a cute little trinket to put out for show or something. "I'm lost here. How does that skull mean I choose you?" I asked confused. He lets out a small chuckle. "Maybe I should have taught you about our culture a little bit more instead of training you so much." He mumbled to himself. "Wait is this what A-Bho'tath was trying to do? In your culture you give gifts in order to court someone?" I ask trying to make sense of everything. He nods his head. "A skull is usually the gift to start the courting process. So, if the person we are trying to court takes it then they have accepted us a mate." He explains to me. I nod my head. "Wait so you're one of yeyin sain'jas that the elder was telling me about." I said with a smile.

 He nods his head. "The number one contender for your heart actually." He said proudly. I blushed and smiled brightly at him. "Number one huh?" I asked. He nods again. "Well, I guess if you were number one then you deserve a prize don't you." I said in a matter-of-fact tone. He tilts his head confused. "(Y/n)-." He began to say before I straddled him. His body went from a bit tense to more relaxed. His hands immediately fell to my hips. I leaned in and began to pepper kisses all over his face. The sound of happy clicking filled the air as I continued kissing his face. I pulled away from him after a few minutes. "I'm glad you choose me." I told him. He happily clicked something to me that I kind of understood but it was still hard to get some things. "You're always going to be my first choice." He told me softly.

Tag list: @sophiaj650 @h0n3y-l3m0n05

[wavesrollin]

His Real Home

Tails has an unhappy encounter with Amadeus of all people.

Tails barely remembered waking up. He barely remembered even walking out the door when he was grabbed by him.

The tall dark man had him by the elbow, fist holding on so tight his arm had fallen asleep.

He must also be asleep because the man holding his arm was taking him somewhere, and he wasn't fighting back. Why wasn't he fighting back? He didn't want to go with him. And he was gripping at his arm and it hurt so bad and- Why have they stopped?

The kit looked around at the dark forest surrounding them, the silhouettes of three dark figures in front of them.

"Tails?" A familiar female voice called out of one of them. "Tails what are you doing out here with- A light shone on the fox that had Tails in a tight grip. The familiar dark brown with black-tipped ears he'd remember anywhere.

"Amadeus?" He called up to him. Pulling at his arm as danger signs flashed in his mind. The grip on his elbow only grew tighter. "Amadeus, let me go." But the fox didn't, and now he was dragging him somewhere farther away from the silhouettes and he couldn't get free and he wasn't going to get free and oh my God where is he taking him? Can't be anywhere good, right? No not with Amadeus, he couldn't go anywhere good with his sperm donor. Was he going to die?

"Amadeus let me go." He said again firmly, dragging his feet to stop himself from going much farther. Maybe then his friends could catch up with him.

"Sonic!" He called to the shadows in the distance. "Sonic help me!"

Suddenly, an intrudingly bright light lit up around them, and Tails winced under the harsh glow.

"Tails?" Sonic called over to him, the bright cerulean glow of the familiar hedgehog coming closer and closer to him. "Tails what are you- "

"Help!" Tails managed to get out before a dark paw reached over his muzzle, effectively shutting him up.

"Hey!" A gruff voice shouted. The owner of which came closer to them. "Unhand the fox.

"This does not concern any of you."

"You taking our little buddy here in the middle of the night doesn't concern us?"

"I'm taking him back to his real home."

"We are his real home!"

Tails scratched at the paws holding his muzzle shut, the deep desire to finally bite the man overcoming his fear. But before he could he felt the earth tilt at his feet as a heavy force came after the man holding him.

Amy put her hammer away and helped Tails back to his feet. "As we were saying our kit friend here isn't going anywhere with you. Now leave."

"I-"

"Leave!" She held her hammer up to strike the fox again, but she didn't get far enough as Tails dusted himself up and collected himself in those ten seconds.

"Leave!" She held her hammer up, ready to strike, only to be stopped by her fox kit friend holding a paw up in front of her.

"What do you want Amadeus?" He asked looking back at Amadeus.

"Your mother needs a kidney." The fox huffed.

"Well, she's not getting it from me."

"How dare you. That vixen gave you life. The least you could do with your sorry existence is keep her alive. She's your mother."

"She is not my mother, you both made that very clear when you kicked me out."

"I'm getting that organ if I have to tear it out of you myself."

"Wow, onto threat now are we? Well, Amadeus, well, I think this conversation is over then, you should hit the road because you're not getting anything out of me. Bitch."

"What did you say?!" A mean look came over the fox's muzzle.

"Lose an eardrum in the war too? You- "Tails fell back on the ground, holding the left side of his face, blood leaking out from under his paw. There were more threats and yelling and more threats after that, but all Tails could hear was the sound of Amadeus' slap across his face.

Soon with a few more threats with Amy's hammer, Amadeus begrudgingly agreed to leave Tails be. And Tails was gently lifted into a ticked off Sonic's arms.

Then they sped home. His real home was miles away from either Amadeus or Rosemary. The house he shared with the best brother in the world. Far into the Mystic Ruins where no one could ever hurt him again.

[eddiebabygirldiaz]

So, my darling @spaceprincessem and I were losing our minds about the shooting conversation and future possibilities and then this happened. I am sorry. I blame Em 😉😘

"For fuck’s sake, I know what your blood tastes like, Eddie!"

Eddie stumbles back as if struck. The words split through him harder than any bullet ever could.

Buck’s chest heaves as he pants, his eyes glazed over as if completely lost in the memory. "I had your blood all over me. Searing into my skin. Settling along my tongue. And all I could think was 'No, this can't be the only taste of him I'll ever have' and 'I'll bear this taste for the rest of my life if you just let him live.'" He shakes his head as tears spill down his face. A laugh breaks free from him, broken and brittle and bitter. "Praying to a God I don't even believe in. All for you."

Eddie doesn't bother to fight against his own tears. They blaze hot trails down his face, burning like the fiery splash of blood that painted Buck’s face that day.

Eddie remembers. Of course he remembers.

How could he forget the moment everything changed? How could he forget the moment a piece of metal tore through his skin and forced all of his love to explode out of him in a flood of red?

"I prayed too," Eddie whispers. "I prayed that I'd live long enough to look in your eyes again. I prayed that somehow, you'd feel my love as it stained your face."

Buck’s expression shutters and a visible tremor runs through his body. "W-what?" Blue blue blue eyes bore into him, vast and bright, a shining beacon of light that sears into Eddie’s soul.

Eddie furiously wipes away his tears and even though this isn't how he wanted to do this, he is helpless to stop the confession from finally falling off his lips. "That was the moment I knew, Buck. That moment, as searing pain ricocheted throughout my body, I realized how in love with you I was. I am."

Buck gapes at him, his mouth opening and closing. Fear and awe and pain and hope all blaze across his face. A face Eddie knows better than his own. A face beautifully carved and wonderfully soft and bright. A face he has seen ravaged by devastation and grief, glowing with happiness and love, twisted in confusion and anger, peaceful in sleep and quiet moments spent at Eddie’s side.

It all makes it so incredibly easy for Eddie to keep going. He might as well tell Buck everything now. "I held it back for so long, because-" he grapples with the words, unsure of how to properly express it but more than willing to try for Buck. He deserves it. He deserves to hear how loved he is. "Because it's so overwhelming and powerful and fucking effervescent and I didn't know what to do with it. And things kept going wrong and I lost my fucking mind, but you were there. Always there, making me feel important and loved even when I was at my lowest. And then I thought maybe, maybe we could be ready. Then fucking lightning struck."

A sob threatens to tear out of his throat. He can feel it building and breaking, cutting at the flesh of his throat like glass, but he can't let it out. Not yet.

"You died, Buck." The first time he had said the words, they were hushed and gentle, meant for Buck and not himself, but now-now they tear through the air and splatter at their feet, harsh and rough and soaked in the still lingering despair that clutches tightly at his chest some nights.

"Eddie-" Buck steps forward, reaching out for Eddie but Eddie holds up a hand to stop him.

Not yet. Not yet.

"You died and so did I. Those minutes you were gone I was a ghost, hollow and incorporeal and drowning in grief. I vowed to myself that if we got you back then I'd tell you how I felt because every day that you go without knowing how deeply and irrevocably in love with you I am is torture."

"But you didn't," Buck says, voice cracking. "You didn't tell me."

Eddie huffs and looks away. "No. I-I got scared and then you admitted to me that you were struggling and I couldn't put all of that on you. It wouldn't have been fair."

Buck steps toward him, the bulk of him closing around Eddie and caging him against the counter, wrapping Eddie in softness and warmth and strength. "And now?"

A ragged sigh escapes Eddie's lips as he reached up a shaking hand and cups Buck’s cheek. "There’s so much we need to talk about, Buck. I couldn't bear to rush into anything with you and fuck this up. I need you in my life, okay? You're my best friend, my partner, my fucking co-parent, and I. Cannot. Lose. You."

Something between a whine and sob crawls out of Buck's chest and it vibrates in the air between them. Buck nuzzles into his hand and the wet, sticky residue of his tears smears across Eddie's palm.

"You're right," Buck says. "I-I need to get better. For the both of us."

Eddie brings up his other hand so he is cradling Buck’s face and waits until those blue eyes meet his. "I love you," Eddie declares. "I love all of you, every wonderful and horrible piece, and I can wait until you're ready."

Buck exhales shakily and nudges forward until he can rest his forehead against Eddie’s. "I love you, too."

They stay like that, pressed against each other, sharing sweet, sacred, life-giving breaths until the tears and tremors subside.

[writingsfromstarfleet]

[VOY] Chakotay - Everyone But You

♫ - Hands To Myself - Selena Gomez

"You two are the best officers I have, so I need you for this mission."

Captain Janeway's words were clear as day, and she was quick to tell you exactly what she thought. A diplomatic mission was at the hands of the USS Voyager, and she needed two people who were friendly and could be trusted to handle the assignment with care, whilst still gathering whatever information needed in a timely manner. 

"You're sure we're your best choice?" Chakotay's voice rang through the captain's ready room. With a curt nod, Chakotay nodded back. "Alright, looks like it's me and you."

"Looks like it's me and you. We won't let you down, Captain."

"I know."

Thinking as you left Janeway's ready room, a small part of you was excited, in a strange way, to be going off on this mission with Chakotay. Since you met him on the assignment, you had grown closer with him over time. From casual drinks in the evenings, or holodeck experiences together, you made the most of what downtime you had when things in space weren't trying to kill you all. Chakotay had even been kind enough to help you learn to meditate as he did when you had a bit of a down swing. Your bond was closer than you thought possible, and this was a blessing in a way; you could have been stuck with Tom. 

Geared up and ready to head to the planets surface, you met Chakotay at the shuttle bay ready to depart. 

"You remember the mission, right?" he joked, and you hit him softly on the arm.

"Mission?" you replied. "What's one of those?"

"We do need to wrap this up in a week, so we have a week to set forward Starfleet's plans for help and convince the people being a part of the Federation isn't such a bad thing."

"It'll be difficult, but I trust you two," the Captain's voice rang out, and you turned to see a smiling Janeway. "Good luck, and don't kill each other by the end of it, will you?"

With a wave, she left the shuttle bay and went about her day, as you boarded the shuttle and departed. 

The trip was short, and not too many words were exchanged, save for those referencing flight paths and landing procedure. The planet's surface was in full view, so many swirled variations of blue and white, cobalt and sapphire rings encasing the world within it. The cloud cover created a fine smoke from a distance, and the planet radiate light in a sphere that made it look almost magical. 

"Beautiful, no?" Chakotay asked, smiling at you. "Not all planet's are as boring as Earth."

You chuckled. "You can say that again."

After docking and landing had been cleared and your feet were on the surface, you marveled at how clean and fresh the air was, and how bright and happy the planet was on foot. It was just as beautiful as it was in the air. A man dressed in flowing robes greeted you with a smile, and began explaining everything to you as you walked to your accommodation.

In the middle of the walk, your eyes darted around you, and you saw nearly everyone passing by was, in some form, connected. Some held hands, some held each other by the arm, but everyone was touching. Feeling awkward as eyes fell upon you both, you were quick to grab Chakotay's hand, to which he shot his attention to you.

"Is everything alright?" he asked, concerned.

"It's fine, it's just everyone seems to be holding hands or what not, so I thought maybe we should do the same. I'm sorry if it stepped a line, Commander."

He shook his head and smiled. "Don't worry."

Chakotay's hand never left yours until you were behind closed doors, either. You were thankful for him, that could have been so much more awkward with anyone else. 

The week flew by, but not with the occasional tricky situation. From having to act like a couple over dinner, to a kiss on the cheek in front of other diplomats, it had been one week of strange feelings. It had, however, made you realise one thing; you wanted more than friendship with Chakotay. 

It made Chakotay realise something too; the exact same thing with you.

The last day had arrived, and you were departing in the evening, so you thought a drink might be in order, considering the successful negotiations with the planet's higher ups. The stress was gone, and it was both your time's to relax before heading back to Voyager. 

"It's been one hell of a week, Y/N," he chuckled, sitting forward and taking a sip of his drink.

"You can say that again," you laughed back. Chakotay raised an eyebrow,

"It's been one hell of a week, Y/N."

As you went to swat him, Chakotay laughed and caught your hand, pulling you closer to him. He kissed your cheek, and you felt a little different from the past times he had done it.

"Chakotay! You don't have to do that now, nobody is looking anymore, we don't have to pretend."

"Oh, I know," he smirked. "I'm not pretending, Y/N, don't worry."

"You meant that one?" Your voice was soft, confused slightly. But, more than anything, you were curious. Did he feel the same way?

"I meant them all, but that one especially. I've come to like you a lot, and if you'll agree, I would like to continue this after we leave."

You stared into his eyes, those eyes you fell for so long ago, and took his hand. Pressing a kiss to his lips, you all but confirmed that for him.

"As if I would say no."

Now back on the ship, you were greeted by Tom and Harry, who said the captain wished to see you once you were back. Making some haste, you arrived outside her ready room and rang. Janeway answered, and you were invited in.

"Commander, Lieutenant," Janeway nodded, and you both smiled at her. "I hear there was success, so thank you.  You have done us all a great favour. Thank you for being professional and handling this with the dignity and prowess Starfleet expects of you."

"It was our pleasure, Captain," Chakotay answered, and you agreed.

"That it most certainly was."

"That will be all, at least from you, Commander. I'm glad you're both safe. Y/N, a word?" Janeway let no clue with her tone as to what she was about to say, and you were a little nervous. Chakotay dismissed himself, but you stayed seated.

"Have I done something wrong, Captain?" your voice shook a little, nerves coming up.

She smiled, that comforting Janeway smile everyone got. "Not at all, Y/N. I was just checking everything was okay for you? The company and what not?"

"More than okay, Captain. Thank you for choosing the two of us to go, I feel honoured."

Janeway chuckled. "Oh, I wasn't going to send anyone else. I thought that was the perfect mission for you both."

"What do you-" you started, but stopped when she raised a brow and smirked at you. She knew exactly what she was doing when she sent you both down there. "You knew how I felt?"

"We all did. The only ones who didn't were you and Commander Chakotay himself," she was laughing wholeheartedly now, and you shook your head and joined in.

"Just be good to one another, you are both perfectly suited. Now go and get sorted and relax, I'll see you later. Dismissed."

"Thank you, Captain." You smiled.

"Don't thank me, it was more than worth it. And if this doesn't work, Y/N, I'll send you on the next one with Harry."

With that, Janeway winked and closed her door, leaving you laughing and thankful for such a wonderful Captain and crew as the ones on Voyager.

[hearts4golbach]

Light Shower. (Sal Fisher x Fem!Reader)

part 6

-

"I was cold, my past grew mold around my heart."

-

in New jersey, no one cared for valentines Day except for the 4th graders. exactly one week before Valentines, a Monday to be exact, I walked in from recess to see a wilted dandelion on my desk. I gingerly picked it up and looked around the class. I looked at sal, who just shrugged. what an amazing actor he was. I sat down, placing the bright yellow flower at the very top of my desk, and reached to get my math book. a piece of notebook paper fell out of my cubby hole. It was neatly folded and had a cute little cat with a messy heart drawn on it. I smiled and opened the note. the handwriting was messy but legible:

rozes are red, violets are blue. the sun shines bright, and so do u! :)

-secret admirer

the way the note was signed caught me off guard. I felt my stomach bubble with excitement. I couldn't wait to tell sal how I had a secret admirer, me! little did I know.

the short poems and silly little flowers kept coming all week without fail. with every gift, I became more anxious and excited to know who was responsible for this. cliche, I know.

I hid every note in my sock drawer, eventually collecting a small pile of 5 notes.

the next Monday, valentines Day, I walked into class to see the usual wilted flower in the middle of my desk. except, there was a tiny Hershey chocolate bar next to it. I dare say, that was my favorite valentines Day.

-

my heart yearned for sal, just like it had for so many years. except, it ached and screamed, making me want to sob. I wanted to run to sal and for him to kiss and hold me, just like he had. but I couldn't. everything changed. I was glued in my bed, once again. this never-ending cycle was exhausting, and I only knew one thing that'd help. I took the plastic baggie out of my shoe. everything was already crushed. I cried as I finished off the bag, feeling even worse for relapsing. I knew I'd forget eventually. I begged whatever God was out there to make it stop. yet, flashbacks and guilt kept hitting me, like they were in the same bed as I. I could feel Shawn's hands on my body. everything burned until it didn't. I stared up at the ceiling, my brain becoming TV static, and my body went numb. it was a choice between feeling everything or nothing, and I'd choose nothing over and over again.

when my parents had gone to work, I dragged myself out of the pool of sweat and tears that was my bed and grabbed a soda from the fridge. the cold fizz brought me a short-lived sense of relief, that maybe everything isn't so bad. but that was quickly interrupted by an eager knocking at the door. I rubbed my eyes, hoping I didn't look like I had just relapsed, fully knowing who was behind the door. I couldn't fave sal like this. i couldn't let him see me, not sober.

I held my breath, staring into his electric blue eyes, silently begging him to say something. "Y/n, I'm so sorry."

a feeling of actual relief washed over me. "sal, you have no reason to apologize for something like that." I mumbled.

"Y/n." his tone changed. "Can I come in?"

I nodded and stupidly enough led him to the room where all of the evidence was. my heart dropped when I saw the baggie and book still on my bed.

"Look, before you get mad..." Before I could finish my sentence, he pulled my in for a hug. I began to cry, and I felt a few of his tears seep through his mask, too. "I'm so sorry, I didn't have a choice."

"I know." I could hear the pain and sympathy in his voice. "I should've came sooner."

"Sal, it's not your fault." we laid in my bed. I nuzzled my head into his chest as he gently ran his fingers through my hair. he took off his mask and put it somewhere in my room.

"I really fucking like you." he whispered, breaking the silence. I looked up at him. I quickly pulled him in and connected our lips once more. I felt him smile, excitement and logning coursing through my views.

I pulled back. "I really fucking like you too." I mimicked. I watched his eyes light up.

"I was wondering if you'd wanna be my girlfriend. I'm sorry, I know you've been through some deep shit and-"

"sal," I cut him off, placing my hand on the side of his face. "I'd fucking love to. I want you more than anything. I trust you to be different, hell, I KNOW you're different." I sighed, the weight of the world finally off my chest.

-

sals POV:

Y/ns mom kicked me out, saying it was late and to go home. I laughed quietly as I walked out, like I hadn't stayed over for days at a time before. I went home and checked on dad, who was asleep in his work chair. i let out an exhausted sigh and made my way down to Larry and Lisa's apartment. I felt like I could smell his stench all the way from the 4th floor. I wandered down the hall to the apartment and walked in quietly, knowing Lisa was asleep. I walked into Larry's room and jumped onto his bed. "Hey, Lar Bear."

he groaned. "I was just about to sleep! and don't call me that, dude." he playfully punched my arm.

"me and Y/n are dating."

Larry looked at me, shocked. "finally! God damn."

"shhh! you're being loud."

he laughed. "my bad. its funny cuz I got a girlfriend today. some blonde bimbo, she's hot as fuuuck."

I rolled my eyes. "you really shouldn't talk about women like that."

he shrugged. "whatever."

[ajokeformur-ray]

with the sequel coming out, tell me again how you and arthur first fell in love! how did you meet! i wanna know your story!

I forgot the original story I had for us five years ago (I feel like it was that I saw Carnival dancing in the street, fell head over heels for this smiley clown, and approached him on a break to tell him I loved his dancing, but I could be wrong), so I have a new one which fits better the person I am now.🥺🙏 This is the SWEETEST ask and has me melting, I'm struggling so badly right now trying to balance everything going on and this ask is the perfect thing to give me five minutes to myself 🥺❤️❤️❤️❤️ I hope you enjoy the story!!

Arthur and I had a meet cute.

During the bus scene, we noticed that the lady never handed Arthur his card back even though she would have seen the text asking for the card to be returned (😡). So I can only assume she threw it on the floor or left it on the seat, I highly doubt she would have snatched the card and then taken it with her.

I was sat in the row directly behind Arthur so I saw and heard everything. His exchange with the child, the woman being rude (she was probably overworked, stressed and tired but there's no need to be rude to someone, especially if they've gone out of their way to try to cheer your baby up🥺), the sharp flick of laminated card as it hit the dirty bus floor.

I stared at that white card poking out from underneath her chair for the rest of the bus ride home, focusing on it to make sure I didn't forget to pick it up. I wanted to see what it said, and if it was indeed the man's in front of me then I'd return it to him.

(In real life I have run after people, total strangers, to give them back wallets, keys etc if they accidentally lose them on the bus, even if it isn't my stop; I can easily walk the rest of the way, that person needs their possession back way more.)

So when the bus stops and the man gets off, I remembered that Helm's Pharmacy carries my specific hair oil and I'm down to a third of a bottle so I need some more (my hair uses a lot of oil as it's a part of my daily routine and I will lose my shit if I don't have enough for the day's routine). I get up too, bending down to grab the small card on the way out.

It's nothing I haven't heard before as a psychology and counselling honours degree student, but the "please return this card" catches my attention and I'm so focused on reading the card that I almost walk right into Arthur's back as he stops to open the pharmacy door. I don't even remember getting off the bus; my body knows every part of my day because I live the same one over and over again without reprieve (but many complaints).

"Oh, shit! I'm so sorry, I was miles away." I am stammering, verbally tripping over myself as the man, his shoulders hunched up to his neck like he's expecting an attack, turns around. "I'm so sorry, really, it's just I realised you never got this card returned and I wanted to give it to you in case you need it, it looks well used and I'm so sorry I almost -"

My anxious rambling is cut off by a quiet high pitched giggle. Like recognises like as his ocean greens meet my hazel with green and gold flecks, and I fall instantly in love with the man whose name I don't know yet.

He waves a hand dismissively, and I hold his card out.

"Here, I'm so sorry again."

Arthur takes the card from me and stuffs into haphazardly into his pocket. I notice the colour of his jacket, his gorgeous eyes, those romantic dark curls, the nicotine stains on his fingers, the way he's wincing under the bright artificial lights of the pharmacy, and as I'm looking at Arthur, he's looking at me. I don't know what he's noticing about me, I've just finished work so I look an awful mess. Black bags under my eyes from weeks of sleep deprivation, messy hair falling out of its braid. A girl crumbling under the weight of the world and hoping she can keep it together long enough that no one will notice until she can get back to her bedroom and shatter. Only to pick herself up in the morning and do it all over again.

It's so similar to Arthur's mantra of step step step, but I don't know that, not yet.

"Th-thank you," Arthur stammers, sweeping a hand through his curls. I haven't realised we're both moving through the aisles to get what we need, and probably have been since I ran into him. I see my expensive hair oil and swipe two bottles, wincing at the price but willing to pay it for my favourite body part. I joke that it makes up for the rest of me... People always laugh but no one's realised yet that I'm being serious when I say it. In time, Arthur will, and he'll scold me for it. And I'll only smile, because he sees me and loves me all the same.

"You're welcome." I remember my manners and rush to introduce myself. "I'm sorry again to run into you, I'm Erika."

"Erika." Arthur repeats my name as he queues up for the prescription counter; I stand beside him. "My name's Arthur. Arthur Fleck."

And something inside me sighs in relief and whispers deep in the back of my mind, "oh, there you are."

[nabataprophet]

without hurting or being hurt

Whenever you lose track of your father, you always find him in the same place. You round the corner of the library and find him, as always, tucked into the back with a thick tome in hand.

You tug at his robes to get his attention. Whenever he's reading, no matter how much you try to raise your voice, you can never draw his attention unless you do this.

"Sophia?!" He yelps, nearly dropping the heavy tome. He catches it at the last moment, breathing a sigh of relief to not have beaned his young daughter right on the head. "Sorry, were you calling me?"

"...Is it... fun...?"

Your voice is shot from playing with Fae all afternoon, but your father knows you well enough to interpret your vague statement and the pointing of your finger.

Your father's face lights up. "Dark magic? Oh, there's so much to learn! I could study just the knowledge gathered in Arcadia alone and not make it through even half—no, not even a fourth—of it in my lifetime! Isn't that incredible? I consider myself pretty learned in the ancient language, too, so just imagine how much faster I could read if I were completely fluent! To be honest, I was also thinking about asking the village elder to help me translate a few sections."

Excitement colors his voice as he launches into an impassioned explanation. Recently, you've noticed him moving slower than usual, but seeing him so passionate soothes your anxieties somewhat.

"Can I... learn, too?"

The bright smile on your father's face fades, replaced by a more complicated expression. He takes the tome in his hand and returns it to its home on the shelf, far above where your tiny hands can reach.

"Honestly, you're my daughter, so you may have a talent in dark magic, but I hope there never comes a day you have to use it, Sophia."

"...Why?"

"Hmmm... let me put it this way. The people who live outside of this village aren't very nice people. They like to hurt other people, especially if they have dragon blood like you do. You're a very kindhearted girl, Sophia, so I hope you never have to hurt another person. Do you understand?"

You nod quietly. You don't want to hurt anyone, either. Sometimes when you close your eyes, you see flashes of visions of people attacking each other with weapons. It's all incomprehensible to a little girl who has only known the safety and peace of a true Utopia. You don't understand why a person would willingly hurt another person.

Your father scoops you up in his arms, holding you close.

"You really do resemble your mother more and more by the day." He strokes your head, affection in his eyes and regret in his voice. "...But I can't help but wish you resembled me as well. Ha ha, forgive your selfish father, Sophia."

It's many years later when you finally understand what he had meant when he told you those words on that day. He is long gone now, his lifespan mere days in comparison to yours. Sometimes you wonder if he had already known at that point that he was never going to be able to see you grow older.

It's not until after the war that you return to the library of your youth. You're tall enough now to pluck that tome off the shelf without even needing to stand on tiptoes. The well-loved pages of the book open easily under your fingers. When you were younger, you had wondered what kind of secrets the book your father had kept hidden from you had contained. By all means, it's just a normal dark tome just like the ones sold in the village's shop.

It's the particulars of the spell that stand out more than anything else. The tome details the usage of a spell that restores life force at the expense of another; the second level of dark magic. It's not particularly complicated magic and indeed, you've handled far more complex magic while traveling with Lord Roy's army.

Your father had been right, though. You still wish that you would never have to hurt another person, but you had no longer been afforded a choice in the matter. There's no way that your father could have known that in the future, your perfect untouchable paradise would be under threat of being invaded or that you would end up being taken prisoner.

He was only human, so how could he have known?

I hope you never have to hurt another person, your father had said. He had hoped you would stay nestled safely within paradise for your whole life.

But a life without hurting or being hurt is impossible, after all.

Class Mastered: Dark Bishop

[yoiashroom]

Can have a fic or something with Dom x Fem! Solider reader where they fall in love (Dom survives) after maria passes?

DOM SANTIAGO 

Being an outrider for COG had its difficulties, one of those downsides was no one takes you seriously your used as bait to see if grubs were nearby and you have a higher rate of dying during your missions, I'm part of the last situation.  

Right now, I'm hiding behind an old grocery store counter while grubs try and shoot me down, I called for backup almost 15 minutes ago and they should be here by now! But noooo they have other missions to attend then help their dear outrider. 

I reloaded my lancer and peeked out to see almost 10 whole grubs and on boomer if one of the grubs positioned behind a wall the boomer in front 3 grubs were blocking the exit so my master plan of throwing a flash and running out while their blind was short lived maybe if my team didn’t run off and split up like I said not to then we probably- BANG ... 

A shot wizzes past my head and I whip my head back to its hiding spot, I need to stop daydreaming and decide there's some cover to my left a half wall, and to my right was another counter I can alter my earlier plan of throwing the flash and running but instead of running I throw the flash and while their blinded shoot the ones by the door and go hid behind the half wall although that leaves me vulnerable to the grub behind the wall I'll have to melee him and possibly get shot I don’t have any meds on me so I would have to just deal with the pain. 

Though if I go with the counter, I can use my flash then when their blind I'll have just enough cover to crouch my way out to a different exit that hopefully doesn't have too many grubs. 

Seeing as how I have no meds and they have a boomer I'll take the second choice. I ready myself into a running position pull the pin on the flash and close my eyes 1...2...3 I throw the grenade as I see a bright light emit from behind the counter I move as quick as possible while the deformed ugly’s are blinded I run past the cover I was supposed to crouch to, and as a result bullets fly past my adrenalin induced body  I don’t really care anymore in done spending time in this rotten grocery store, I make a swift left and see a glass double door that opens to my path out forget my colleagues I'm leaving I push open the doors and run outside and breath fresh air . 

Slowing down I bend over putting my hands on my knees trying to catch my breath, but SUNDENLY! I hear the sounds of trucks pulling up a scowl coms=es across my face as I look up to see THE COG TRUCKS, I ASKED FOR 20 MINUTES AGO where was this when I needed it HMMM 

“Hey, we're here, what's the big fuss about” Anya looks puzzled she heard you yelling on the intercom while she was on a mission just for it to be empty outside. 

My sour face doesn't change as I explain to her what went down “and then I ran out here and you guys showed up 20 MINUTES LATE” Cole sheepishly scratched the back of his head “yeah were sorry about that commander kept us held up” I look down and shake my head “well search the place and see if we can find your teammates and you can sit in the truck with Dom” now it's my turn with the confused face ”isn't Dom coming with you?” Marcus looks back at the truck and shakes his head “no he hurt his arm on our mission and we haven't been able to patch up, could you fix him up for us?" my puzzled face turns into one of concern as I look back to the truck “of course I can it’s the least I can do since you guys are the only ones that came to my help” Marcus sighs of relief “thanks Y/N “ I say a quick your welcome and walk to the truck where my patient is. 

I open the back door to the truck where I see Dom without his top armor on looks like was going to sterilize his wound but kept wussing out at the first touch “do you need some help?” he looks at me surprised but quickly his expression turned into a pained one I get in the back seat and hold his hurt arm carefully to see the damage a long slash on his left arm starting at his shoulder down to the bottom of his bicep I scrunch up my face thinking how bad that must hurt I grab the cotton ball soaked in disinfectant and give him a look of sympathy “I'm sorry but this is going to hurt a lot” he gives a unsure look and I give him time to prepare for the pain he’ll be in we both take a deep breath and I quickly put the soaked cotton ball to the gash, 

A strangled groan of pain emits from Dom I try to get this over with as quickly as possible to stop his pain once I was done, I grabbed the bandages to my left and wrap his arm up not to tight but tight enough 

huff “thank you” I give him a small smile and mutter a small your welcome Dom slowly leans back trying to not move his freshly wrapped arm an awkward silence falls emits us as I look for a question to fill the void Dom finds one first “when the guys said there taking me somewhere special you were the first thig that came to mind” I playfully roll my eyes as Dom chuckles Dom slightly shifts over to me and gives me a weak smile ”sorry we couldn't get to you sooner commander was holing us up” I smile at him "I know the others told me this fine” I touch his arm softly not trying to hurt him “when we get back to the base I'll be able to patch you up properly but for now this will have to do” he looks down at my head now if you look closely and I mean really close you'll see the smallest red hue on my face as he touches my hand “thanks I really mean it” he pauses for a second and then makes eye contact with me and sighed I could feel my face getting warmer as I return the eye contact “ you know no one has really patched me up like this in forever I really do appreciate it and I was hoping that we could um” he broke the eye contact looking down and taking a deep breath and regaining eye contact Dom leans in close to my face I can feel my face on fire but just as he lean in we hear talking from outside and Dom pulls away leaving me a little sad at the loss of contact  

The door opens to reveal the rest of the crew, but none of my teammates ”where's my team?” I asked Marcus he holds up 5 cog tags as I make an I knew it face the rest of the crew hopped in the truck with me sitting beside Dom I daydream a the truck takes us back to base but before that, I feel a pair of lips on my cheek I whip my head to look at Dom with a newly red face all he does is smirk I start planning of a way to get back at him while Baird drives us back to the base  

[loosesodamarble]

What if Nacht (19 jears) old got realy drung and tell Morgan everything abaut his true fillings abaut him and him self the self dobe/hate and the devil pfing going on he tell Morgan all of this and this Morgan is his only light in the roten wold

Hoooo boooooy! This was a long time coming. These asks just sit in my inbox forever and I'm so sorry about that. 😓

If you'd be so kind as to accept these headcanons as apology, Marune? 💖/lh

Also, Merry Christmas, I suppose? 😅

..........

Nacht's Drunken Confessional

It happens the evening of May 1st. Nacht invites Morgen home to celebrate Morgen's 19th birthday with a little hang out, just the two brothers. They hadn't had one-on-one time in years and despite Nacht's fear of hurting Morgen, he was really missing his brother and gave in to the urge to let him close.

They kick back with some nice alcohol (classy wine for Morgen and beer for Nacht) and some snacks to pair with the drinks. The time flies as Nacht and Morgen chat the night away.

Eventually, Nacht is completely drunk and not in total control of himself.

Morgen, a bit tipsy himself, smiles at Nacht and thanks him for helping him celebrate at least in a small way. He's missed spending time with Nacht and is glad that they haven't irreversibly drifted apart yet.

Morgen's straightforward gratitude and how cute he looks when he's happy gets to Nacht. Morgen is just so bright and pure and innocent...

Nacht drops his empty beer bottle on the floor and slams Morgen with a hug.

"Moooorgeeeen!" Nacht sobs while squeezing Morgen as tight as he physically can. "Morgen, I'm so sorry! Your big brother is the worst!"

(When Nacht talks, his speech is very slurred but I didn't want to take the time to type that out.)

"I'm such an awful brother! I ignore you all the time and walk away when you only want to spend time with me! And it's not that I hate you! I love you so much! But I just-! I just could never show it! Gods, I'm the worst!"

To say Morgen is shocked at what's happening is an understatement. He's staring at Nacht and being completely still. Not like he can move much with how Nacht is holding him.

Nacht loosens his hold on Morgen and then holds Morgen's shoulders, as if to stabilize himself.

Nacht is actively crying at this point and it's like a floodgate broke open. The tears are big and fall fast and Nacht isn't even trying to hide them. He's focused on Morgen and baring his soul.

"You're so good, Morgen. Kind and accepting to everyone. Generous, brave, caring, selfless, peaceful. You're perfect. So goddamn perfect in every way. And then I look at myself and I see this shitty, selfish, cowardly bastard that only ever screws up. I was so scared to be around you. That'd I'd hurt you or make you as bad as me."

Nacht hugs Morgen again, combing his hand through Morgen's hair. It's a tender action that he never really did for Morgen before but it comes naturally to Nacht in the moment.

"I'm not good or kind. All I ever do is make things worse for everyone. I'm everything you're not. I'm hopeless and worthless. I'm evil, plain and simple as that. At least..."

Nacht gives Morgen a squeeze. His tears are falling on Morgen's shoulder, soaking through his clothes.

"At least I have you. No matter what, you've been the best part of my life. You smile everyday because you have so much hope. Always so kind. Because that's how you are. You shine like your magic. You have no idea how much you mean to me. You make me want to believe in the good in others, to be happy for the sake of it. You're so much better than me, you know? And I love you for that. Thank the gods that you're you, for being my light in this rotten world."

"I really don't deserve to love you. I don't deserve to be your brother. I don't deserve to even know you, Morgen. And yet here I am. Close enough that if I did one thing wrong, I might lose you. I'm the worst there could ever be."

While Nacht is rambling on and on, Morgen starts to tear up and cry himself. Because 1) Nacht is admitting that he cares for Morgen and Morgen is relieved out of his mind to know that, and 2) Nacht is saying awful things about himself which concerns Morgen because he knows Nacht isn't evil, just troubled.

Morgen squirms to hug Nacht back. He tries to say "Nacht, you're not evil. Don't say that. It's not true."

But Morgen is cut off by Nacht reeling back, tears still pouring from his eyes. "You have no idea what you're talking about!" Nacht yells, in agony and accusation.

"You're a Magic Knight and here I am with these!" Nacht pulls something out from under his shirt: a necklace with four relics giving off a bit of magic. A dark and sinister magic. "While you're out protecting the kingdom, I'm-!" A pair of black horns grows from Nacht's forehead and his eyes turn red. Four devils emerge from the shadows to encircle the brothers. "I'm a devil host... I'm the enemy..."

Morgen is quiet. At this point, he had already found out his family's secret on his own. And he had been debating on when/how to confront them about it, especially Nacht. But now...

Nacht is still going on about the family's devil work. He's starting to pace. As he does, the devils fade back into the shadows.

"Morgen, you don't know the half of it. Mother and Father wanted you to know nothing. Ever. They were waiting for you to just move out entirely because your visits meant they had to kept hiding the devils. And not just because you're a Magic Knight but because you're you! Because you're good and pure and... and... You're nothing that they want.”

At last, Morgen finds his voice and speaks more resolutely. His voice is still gentle, for Nacht's sake, but he at least knows what he wants to say. "Why didn't you say anything sooner? You could've told me and then I could've-"

Nacht shakes his head and wipes his tears. "Because... I heard everything I wanted to hear, that I was bad and worlds apart from you. I thought... the distance would protect you."

Morgen finally stands up and hugs Nacht. "Brother. Please listen to me carefully. You're not a horrible person, misguided perhaps but not evil. If you really were so cruel, then you would've been using your devil powers on others, yes? But you never did."

Morgen pulls out of the hug to look Nacht in the eyes and smiles.

"Nacht, even if you do end up hurting me, it's okay. I'm not so fragile. And I trust you not you hurt me anyways. You're my brother and I love you more than anyone else in the world."

Morgen has more to say but Nacht, still very much drunk mind you, just breaks down bawling. He hugs Morgen tight and the brothers fall to the floor (avoiding the glass Nacht dropped earlier). Nacht cries Morgen's name over and over again while clinging to him, as if afraid his brother will fade away.

They stay on the floor for a long while, with Nacht crying and Morgen trying to comfort him. Nacht asks Morgen not to leave and Morgen promises that he's not going anywhere. Nacht apologizes and Morgen forgives him.

"Nacht, I'm not some perfect angel. I make mistakes and dislike myself at times too. Truth be told, I've worked so hard as a Knight because you were always the prodigy and I was trying to keep up with you. I even worried that you looked down on me which caused you to pull away from me. Sounds pretty stupid now, huh? The point is that I'm scared of losing you too, Nacht. Very scared."

Never in their nineteen years had Morgen seen Nacht look so weak. He'd suspected that something must've been bothering Nacht if he'd turned to Forbidden Magic but didn't think it'd result this way.

Eventually, the tears dry and Nacht gains a bit of composure. Nacht and Morgen sit up (again, away from the broken glass still on the floor), leaning their backs against the couch.

"So I was scared of hurting you. And You were worried about losing me," Nacht summarizes. "How stupid of us."

"Stupid to be a loving brother?" Morgen asks. "Or was our behavior stupid?"

"Yeah... Whatever..." Nacht throws an arm around Morgen's shoulders. "You really don't hate me?"

"No. You really love me?"

"Uh-huh."

Morgen at least cleans up the broken glass and tosses it so there are no accidents with that.

Then, Morgen hauls Nacht back onto the couch and throws a blanket over him. He sits himself on another couch and thinks to himself where the conversation will go in the morning, once they're both sober.

Okay the conversation is delayed another day because of Nacht's killer hangover but he is coherent enough to promise Morgen a full explanation once he's in good condition again.

[ilyuu-archive]

psspssspsspspspspspspspsps more stuff!!! for you!!! my lovely lovely future spouse <3 i've been kind of busy over the last week, so consider this an apology? also, brief warning for negative thoughts!! you don't really need to read or answer this if you don't feel well and up to it right now!

today, the universe is painted in shades of mundane blue and grey.

everything has felt off, and your mind has been bombarding you with nothing but hurtful thoughts. they stab your heart over and over, acting as daggers formed of mental energy.

why do people like me?

i don't like myself.

am i good enough?

i don't think so.

why am i being so weak?

because i can't do anything right these days.

it's a cycle. the same words echo through your head again and again and again, allowing you little to no respite amongst a chaotic pandemonium of negativity, and to your dismay, they're only amplified as time goes on.

you feel tears beginning to pool in your eyes, coating irises that once shone as bright as the most brilliant of stars in a layer of crystalized pain.

the beauty of life has vanished, and all that's left is hurt.

the voice inside your head is relentless. it won't stop anytime soon, and you know it, so in order to cope, you try and shut out the world around you. you just want everything to vanish for just a moment. you long for a singular flash of transient serenity amidst what feels like everlasting suffering.

and perhaps a shooting star was passing by as you made that wish because mere seconds go by before a familiar cadence pulls you from the tides of agony.

"yui?" scaramouche's tone is laced with an unfamiliar softness.

both of you know that you're vulnerable at the moment, and you hate that he had to walk in at a time like this. right now, you want nothing more than to hide away from the prying eyes of the world so that no one has to bear witness to your sorrow, so instead of allowing more tears to run down your cheeks, you smile.

"what is it?" you ask. no matter how much you will your voice to remain unwavering, it still shakes, shuddering like a fiery leaf adrift upon autumn wind. each break and crack shines light upon the imperfections in your façade.

scaramouche isn't stupid. you're sure he can see right through you. after all, you've been together for a while now, and although he usually isn't one to care for others, he's surprisingly good at memorizing every single one of your habits.

"you don't have to act all happy. we both know that something's wrong. i'm not a fool," scaramouche snaps. his gaze never leaves your form.

you tense and take a deep breath. the last thing you want is to burden your lover. he's already preoccupied with his own issues, and you don't want to be a bother.

"no, i'm fine," you say.

scaramouche glares at you.

"oh really? i don't believe you," he refutes. "i'm not blind, and the expression on your face isn't all that convincing."

you flinch. why did you even try to deceive him in the first place?

"i'm sorry. i — " you start, feeling tears well up once more. you're never given the opportunity to finish your sentence.

you feel a pair of arms wrap around you as you begin to cry again, enveloping you in an embrace that feels more comforting than the caress of a summer breeze on an overwhelmingly stifling day. his hold is like condensed sunshine — gradually causing the shivers that wrack your body to subside.

you bury your head in his shoulder, trying your best to hide from everything around you. scaramouche doesn't attempt to stop you. in fact, you just pulls you in closer and traces subtle patterns on your back. you focus on the sensation of your lover's touch.

it's gentle. he's gentle — uncharacteristically so.

scaramouche allows you to cry for as long as you need to. your tears stain his clothing, slowly drowning the fabric in a sea of your misery, but he doesn't protest.

throughout it all, you wonder why he cares enough about you to treat you with such kindness. your lover isn't the most pleasant person, but he always makes an effort for you.

"scara," you manage to whisper through shaky breaths, "why do you bother?"

there's a silence. your lover ponders your questions for a few seconds before asking, "what do you mean?"

strangely enough, he sounds almost nervous now. it seems like he's not enjoying this any more than you.

"i mean, you're always so... so kind and patient with me, and i don't understand. what makes me special? why do you care?"

this time, it's scaramouche's turn to freeze. you hear a sharp inhale before your lover's voice fills your senses once more.

"you want to know... why you mean so much to me?" he mutters.

you nod. scaramouche draws a few more odd shapes on your back before speaking.

"idiot, i thought it was obvious," he sighs.

another pause ensues before scaramouche gives you a proper answer.

"i'm not the best at expressing affection, but i want you to know that you're my everything," he whispers the words as though they're a secret between the two of you — a hushed conversation that not even the skies above are permitted to witness. "besides, i'm simply returning the favour. even i can admit that i'm not the most outwardly loving partner, but you've stuck with me through thick and thin. i would be a pathetic excuse of a lover if i couldn't do the same for you."

scaramouche's words instill a sense of calm within you. your heart feels more at ease now, and you feel the tension within you alleviate, the threads of a complicated web of emotions beginning to unravel.

"i love you. you make me want to love again. i wonder if you can even begin to fathom how much that means to me, my dearest yui."

his breath is a fading zephyr, just barely brushing against your ear. but nonetheless, it helps you calm down.

because even amidst tumultuous moments full of agonizing uncertainty, you feel comforted knowing that the one that you love is holding you close as though both of your lives depend on it.

ughfahdifuh i'm sorry if this wasn't amazing or parts of it don't make sense! for one, i probably shouldn't be awake right now, and i've been kind of tired these past few days. i got bored though, so i wrote something for you!!! if you did read this, then i hope it managed to make you feel a bit better <3 i can't pretend i know exactly what you're going through, but no matter what it is, i'll always be here for you!! ily very much yui <3 /p

this.

rei. YOU COULD BE WRITING ALL OF THIS FOR A DRABBLE INSTEAD OF SENDING IT OVER FOR ME YOU’RE SO SWEET PLEASEKANSISJSJDJ I HAVEN’T TOLD YOU THAT ENOUGH. but i’ll say it again, you’re literally so sweet like THANK YOU

i’m feeling a lot better now!! all it took was an eight hour nap skjsjdjd feel like i can deal with anything!! that and i’m on my break from my shifts so i technically can deal with anything if you think about it teehee

anyways

THIS WAS SO NICE TO WAKE UP TO EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS AND SCARA IS SO SOFT AND COMFORTING AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA 💞💞 your writing is just so ✨👌 the amount of imagery and detail that goes into it is something i will always admire

ilyt rei and thank you so so much for this <3

[axels-corner]

The pond where our story started (can we continue?)

Notes: This is my longest work to date, it’s also my 2000th post!! I had a lot of fun writing this, I had an idea of Kenric and Oralie both feeding ducks at a pond in September, and wanted to do a drawing for it when I got an idea to write this instead. I really wanted to focus on putting more descriptors, as well as not scaring myself with writing long fics like I usually do, and I think I succeeded, also I spell checked it but I might've missed a few since the majority of this fic was written before I went to bed because that's when I got ideas for it, I hope you enjoy reading it!

Characters: Kenric, Oralie, (Oralie’s mom is in a couple of scenes)

Words: 6338 words

“C'mon dear it's time to go home!” Oralie heard her mother call

“Coming just give me one second!” Oralie responds back throwing one last handful of birdseed to the ducks but in her haste to stand up she knocked her bag into the water. Her mother appeared behind her and placed a hand on her shoulder

“We'll get a new one this Atlantis and I'll help you re-do you're homework,” she wrapped an arm around Oralie's shoulder holding her pathfinder to the sky, so bright Oralie had to squint when looking into it, “now c'mon it's getting late we should get home.” Oralie nodded and glittered into the light with her mother.

It was Monday morning at Foxfire, she shut her locker holding all her books. Elwin had chosen the flavor for the lockers and she did not want to taste that again

“Ahh!” She tripped over her feet, behind her locker was a boy with vivid red hair, Kenric Fathdon, her academic rival.

“Oh, sorry, I didn't mean to startle you.” He said helping her up. The two weren't exactly friends so she asked the question that was on her mind

“What are you doing behind my locker?” He held out a bag

“I was at a pond this weekend with my family and my cousin fished it out of the water when he and my brother where playing tag. I recognized your families crest.” He pointed to where it was on her bag.

“Oh, thank you I appreciate it.”

“No problem, it's what I would want somebody to do for me if I lost my bag and they found it.” Just then the bell rang, Oralie nodded at him slinging her bag over her shoulder

“Well, I guess I'll see you around Kenric.” He waved as she walked away

“See you Ora!”

She didn't see Kenric for a while after that, well she saw him in the hallway, but they didn't have a conversation beyond a friendly greeting. Though she did see him at the pond and they would silently feed the ducks birdseed together, though no words were exchanged. That was until the summer before the elite levels.

They had both been out and where enjoying the quite silence, Oralie studying, and Kenric reading that they didn't realize that there was a storm until Oralie saw a drop land on the lake out of the corners of her eye. She looked up and saw the sky was a deep, dark, gray. It looked like what she imagined the void where conjurers stored things looked like. She turned to look at Kenric and just as they locked eyes rain started pouring out of the clouds. In an instant she and Kenric where on their feet as they ran for the forest, where they hoped that the trees would at least provide some cover. It didn't. The leaves were just thin enough that the water could still race through the leaves to the ground, like droplets on car windows. At least this time Oralie didn't drop her bag into the pond, not that it made a difference it was just as if not more soaked than it had been all those years ago. Kenric moved to go deeper into the forest

“C'mon the leaves are thicker deeper in the woods.”

“Why don't we just leap away?” Kenric didn't respond he just held his pathfinder up to the light, and it casted no path.

“The light isn't strong enough, we'll have to wait till this storm clears up. Trust me I've grown up in these woods, my parents taught me what to do in case there was a storm.” Oralie nodded following him.

After what felt like hours, though that probably had to do with her high heels that kept sinking into to the ground making every step feel like ten, Kenric stopped and waved his arms around like a magician.

“Welcome to my family's cabin,” He turned and smiled at her before continuing “we can bunk here for tonight and leap in the morning.” Oralie nodded, she had already texted her parents and told them what had happened so that they wouldn't be worried about her.

“So what do we do know?” she asked, noticing how he was looking around the area like he was searching for something.

“There's some food inside that we can heat up, but all the firewood would be soaked by now.” Oralie nodded looking around before her gaze found a tree that was so huge around the base, and stretched high in the sky looking like it could give the clouds a high-five with its leaves if it wished. And its leaves-the leaves where the most beautiful she had ever seen with a myriad of colors blending into a majestic ombré. The best part was that leaves where so thick with how age and since leaves hadn't started to fall yet that little to no water got onto the sticks lying below. Oralie turned to Kenric

“I have a plan,” she waited for him to look at her “you go inside and find a match or something of the like to light a fire, and the food, while I find some dry wood.” He nodded looking up at the sky, which could barley be seen, and yet the rain persisted through the gaps except on the thickest trees, he nodded

“Good luck Ora, I don't think anything could not get soaked in this weather,” he turned to go to the cabin but stopped and turned “Wait, I'll take you're bag inside so that it doesn't get more soaked, and maybe dry off a little bit, also,” he unbuttoned his cloak and held it out to her “I noticed you didn't have yours and you're going to be the one out in this rain so here you go.” She took the cloak from him, and handed him her bag, the same one he saved from the pond all those years ago.

“Thank you,” she told him fumbling with the clasp, she always had trouble with them it's why she preferred not to wear them, he pinned the cloak for her. They locked eyes for a minute, and it was like something straight out of a fantasy novel, the sun even seemed to brighten, until Kenric stepped back avoiding her gaze, clearing his throat, cheeks flushed pink

“No problem.” She swore that when she felt his emotions she could almost sens- nope shutting that thought down. She pointed over her shoulder ignoring how good he looked, how did she not notice before

“Well I better,” he nodded

“Oh, yeah and I better try to find the matches, and food, and stuff, it's been a while since we've stayed here so need to make sure the animals didn't get in.” She nodded, and they both turned and went to their job. As Oralie collected the dry firewood she could still feel how pink her cheeks where, did she like Kenric? That's ridiculous they were rivals, they were always trying to one up each other in class scores, but then what was that. It was like one of Kenric's novels he wrote where the two love interests kiss. She shook her head, how was she supposed to get the dry firewood to the cabin without it getting soaked? An idea suddenly popped into her head she took off the cape wrapping the fire wood in it so that the inside was against it and the already soaked outside was still facing out. Here goes nothing, she thought, time to test the water proofness of capes. She should've used that for her science project that they had to do for the science fair. She held her hand over her head like it would stop the rain, now would've been an awesome time to be a hydrokinetic. She ran to the cabin, as curious as she was on the waterproofness of capes it could wait until it wasn't protecting the only dry firewood she had seen. By the time she got to the cabin and inside she was shivering like she'd been frozen, she hadn't realized how much warmth the cape had provided until it was gone.

Kenric looked up from a small drawer with a box of matches in hand and the gnomish vegetables on the counter as she slammed the door open. She held out the bundle

“I found firewood, and it's dry.” Kenric smiled

“And I have the matches and food all we need now is to light the wood stove and we'll be good.” She nodded and moved to put the wood in the other room but Kenric shook his head and gestured for her to give him the wood, she raised an eyebrow but did. He took the cape off the wood and wrapped it around her shoulders again. “Let me handle dinner you look like you're about to become an ice cube, there are some blankets in the next room.” That sounded good to her, even with Kenric's cape she was still freezing, she went to the next room and quickly found the blankets he had been talking about, and wrapped them around her. They were warm like a hug, and soft like an animals fur. She went back into the next room and told Kenric about where she found the wood, and he talked shared stories about his cousins, younger brothers and his baby sister who had been born on the last day of Foxfire.

“She'll celebrate both graduating a level, and her birthday.” Oralie remarked, in return Oralie told him about her older sister, and brother. Talking about everything and nothing all night. As they lay with their heads next to each other at eye level Kenric asked

“Why do you get so serious about grades?” probably remembering when they really did act like rivals, and were not nice to each other, and Oralie yelled at him for destroying their partnered universe homework model, and he yelled at her for making them loose in physical education. She took a deep breath

“I want to be a councilor, I want to change our world for the better,” she turned her head and found Kenric staring at her, “That's why I don't date, and why I haven't even registered,” she watched him nod and as he started to look away she found the courage to say the words she'd been thinking all day “but,” his eyes snapped back to hers “I don't won't to loose what we have, I've never felt this way before.” He nodded

“Me too,” placing a hand on her cheek as they both where sitting facing each other now he asked “may I?” she nodded and they both closed their eyes as they where about to kiss the door slammed open and they both pushed each other away.

When Oralie looked up she saw that it was her older brother Aldwinn with Kenric's older cousin Aldwynn, they were roommates, yes it got confusing, and yes they took advantage of it in every way possible. Aldwinn's eyebrows were high on his face

“Are we interrupting something?” Aldwynn asked with a glance at his cousin. Both Kenric and Oralie shook their heads, protesting, pushing themselves off the floor, Kenric's face flushed bright red, and Oralie knew that hers matched. Aldwinn clapped his hands

“Well Oralie, mom and dad want you home, same with you Kenric.” He added onto the end turning to look at him. Oralie handed Kenric his cape back as they where leaving

“Here you go, thank you for letting me borrow it.” Aldwinn's eyebrows jumped even higher, and then even higher that she was afraid they were going to fly off his scalp if they went any higher when Kenric said waving his hand,

“Keep it, it looks better on you.” As they walked out Aldwinn leans in to whisper

“What was that about? Are you two finally dating took you long enough.” She shoved him playfully

“Shut up, and it's not like I can't say the same thing about you and Aldwynn.” Her brother's face turned a bright red, like he was a cartoon character. He shoved her back

“Whatever, I'll see you at home.” and with that he leaped away, Oralie gave one last wave over her shoulder before she did the same.

She was having a winnowing gala, she and Kenric didn't acknowledge or talk about what had happened that night in the cabin except for making a passing joke about it in rare occasion. Like when Oralie brought up that she was going to have a winnowing gale.

“I'm going to have a winnowing gala.” Oralie declared setting her tray at the table. Kenric didn't look up

“good morning to you too, wait I thought you wanted to be a councilor?” she nodded taking a bite of her food

“I do, but I want to see what's out there first, you know.” He nodded

“That makes sense.”

“I was also wondering if you were free Saturday to help me decorate?” He laughed before realizing she was serious

“I thought you hated my taste.”

“No I hate you're fashion and decorating sense, but I thought it would be more fun if I had a friend there.”

“You're parents pushed you into this didn't they?” Kenric asked, she sighed

“They just want to make sure I'm sure, they want me to get all five match packets.” She looked away, and Kenric took her hand from across the table, running his thumb along her knuckles, he smiled when she looked at him

“Of course I'll be there Ora.” He said using the years old nickname he had for her. Then the bell rang, and Kenric took one last bite of his apple shaped fruit, and threw it away. Oralie sat there realizing she was feeling they same thing she felt when they were in the cabin.

It was Saturday now and just as promised Kenric arrived to help her decorate the banquet hall for the winnowing gala. Currently he was hanging the streamers, while Oralie set up the snack tables. She looked up to see him leaning way beyond the ladder to pin another streamer on a beam

“You're going to fall.”

“No I'm not and even if I did you would catch me.” He shot her a wink, and right on cue confirming her prediction the ladder wobbled before falling sending Kenric with it. Without thinking Oralie caught him with the help of telekinesis, the force knocking them both to the floor. Though she was still holding him bridal style. Kenric's eyes opened slowly, and met hers

“Thanks, I thought I was going to hit the floor for a minute.”

“I'd never let you hit the ground.”

It felt like the night in the cabin, the world faded away leaving only the two of them, Kenric cleared his throat pushing himself away from her, and off the floor, before offering a hand to her

“We should probably keep decorating as much as I would like to keep staring into your eyes.” He turned away and picked the ladder back up and they decorated in silence. Oralie was dissapointed, but he was right, he wasn't on any of her match lists since he had decided not to register. They would be a bad match, but the more she thought about it, she didn't mind that. Her parents would have a fit if they heard her say it, but it was true. She took a deep breath pushing all thoughts of the bright red hair boy out of her mind. It was for the best.

It was night time. Oralie was standing outside greeting the guys from her match list. Some she recognized, some she didn't, none of them were the boy she wanted to see, though she knew it was impossible for Kenric to be here. She couldn't imagine dancing with all of the people on her list when she wasn't interested in any of them. She sighed as she greeted the last person before putting on a bright smile

“Hi! Welcome I hope you enjoy the gala!” The boy laughed

“You know in another life you would've made a great actress, not that you can fool me.” As his words processed Oralie did a double take. She hadn't even recognized Kenric, his hair was done with what looked like tons of hair gel, and the nicest tunic she had seen him wear, though it still clashed with the rest of his outfit, her mouth was still hanging open as he closed it “not excited to see me?” She snapped out of it

“No! It's great to see you its just, how are you here.” He winked at her like he did that afternoon

“Well there's no laws for winnowing galas, just rules, and those are made to be broken,” He rubbed the back of his neck holding out flowers, and in a quieter voice said “and I thought it might be nicer to have a friend,” then as if regaining his confidence the red faded from his cheeks “plus are you going to deny me the opportunity for an Oralie makeover?” She took the flowers from him “That would be nice, and I would never deny the opportunity to give you a makeover.” With that she grabbed his hand and they snuck upstairs, carefully avoiding everyone else. She helped him redo his hair, she was right, he had used the entire tub of gel

“Why would you do that?” she asked, he shrugged

“My brother said too.” She raised an eyebrow and turned so that he was staring at her “which I'm now beginning to think was a prank.” She laughed

“Well I guess we'll have to prank them back.”

“I suppose we will.” forty-five minutes and a makeover later, Kenric helped her do her hair, which she had pulled into a simple pointy tail

“How do you know how to do my hair but not your own?” Oralie asked looking into the mirror

“I help my little sister with her hair, I'm better at longer hair than short hair.”

“Than why don't you grow you're hair out?” He looked at the mirror meeting her gaze

“I never thought about that, I think I will,” he finished the braid “and we're done! What do you think?” Oralie touched her hair

“I love it!”

“Well you have your specialty, and I have mine.” He said, and she laughed

“We should do this before every party, I'll do the outfits, and you do hair.” He nodded

“I'd like that, it's better than getting ready by ourselves.”

“I had a question,” Kenric made a hum “what was that earlier?” he sighed and turned to face her

“Remember when I went to the kitchen to get us lushberry juice?” She nodded and he continued “Well I saw you're mom and she told me that we both want to be councilors, and we shouldn't distract each other with romance, plus we would be a bad match.” Oralie couldn't believe it, well actually she could, but she didn't focus on it right now

“Wait do you like me?” He flushed

“I know you want too be a councilor so I didn't want to say anything.” She laughed taking his face in her hands

“I like you too Kenric, I have since the day in the woods.”

“Really?”

“Really.” He took a breath before asking the question that needed addressing

“What now?”

“Well Kenric Fathdon,” their were butterflies in her stomach and she willed her hands to be steady as she took his. They were larger than hers, which made sense since he was taller than her, his hands felt warm, and right, like a puzzle snapping together. Just as she was about to ask-

“There you are Oralie!” she heard her mother before she saw her, when she looked at her, Oralie's mother wasn't looking at her but rather glaring at Kenric “what are you doing here?”

“Just leaving m'am.” Kenric said before transmitting to Oralie

I'll see you later. When he walked out the door her mother motioned for Oralie to walk with her

“Everyone is waiting for you, you can't let that boy distract you. Plus it's not like you can date any way, you'll be a bad match, as well as you both want to be councilors,” they stopped at the top of the stairs, and her mother took her hands “I don't mean to be harsh Oralie but I just want what's best for you.” Oralie nodded

“and what if Kenric is right for me?” Her mother sighed

“I would prefer if you were a good match but I would support you if that's what you truly want. I just thought you wanted to be a councilor.” Oralie nodded

“I do it's just, he's handsome and funny, and even his arrogance isn't as infuriating as it once was.” Her mother nodded squeezing her hands

“I understand, just try for me won't you?” Oralie nodded

“Ok.”

“Ok,” her mother repeated “thank you Oralie, now go get them.” Oralie nodded and descended the staircase wishing Kenric was descending with her.

The party was over and just as Oralie predicted she didn't like any of her matches, they were nice, and she would want to be friends, but not romantically involved. Oralie's mom put an arm around her shoulders giving her a one arm squeeze,

“Thank you for trying,” she looked over her shoulder and smiled, kissing Oralie's forehead “it looks like you have a visitor, don't stay up to late you two.” and with that she swept up the stairs, Oralie turned around and saw Kenric

“Hey Ora.”

“Hey.” Kenric looked around

“We should probably clean up shouldn't we.” Oralie nodded tossing him a broom

“Help me sweep?”

“Person with the smallest pile looses!” He declares

“Oh you're so on!”

They sweep, until all the trash has been collected into two even piles

“I think I won.” Kenric declared playfully, Oralie shook her head

“I think it was a tie.” Kenric laughed

“Are you sure?” Oralie laughed with him but stopped after a few seconds looking sadly around the room that had been full of music, noise and dancing just a few hours ago. Kenric gave her a one armed hugged hesitantly

“Hey, I'm no empath, but what's wrong?”

“It's not important.” She said looking away, he placed a hand on her cheek and she could feel his emotions love, happiness, and concern

“It seems like it is, what's wrong?” She sighed

“I just wish I could’ve danced with you, I had to dance with all the people I didn't and not the one I did.” Kenric let go of her hand and took her hand

“Who says we can't dance now?”

“But there's no music?” He used telekinesis and put a CD in the radio, human music softly played throughout the room

“Trust me.” he said, starting to lead her through a slow dance, at first it was awkward, she stepped on his feet, they almost tripped over the piles of trash in the room, but soon they fell into a rhythm. Oralie had dance partners before, she danced with hundreds people that night, but Kenric was better than all of them, it was like another piece of the puzzle fell into place. They could have been dancing for three minutes or three hours it didn't matter, as the CD winded down, they still danced even when it stopped. Her arms were around his neck and his arms were around her waist, their foreheads were pressed together

“Thank you.” Oralie said softly, their was only the two of them in the universe

“For what?” he asked in the same soft tone

“For this dance, it's the most amazing I've had all night.”

“I'm glad, considering I've never danced before.”

“You haven't?” Oralie asked unable to keep the surprise out of her voice

“Nope, just made it up as I went.”

“Well it was still amazing.”

They stayed that way for the rest of the night just swaying around the room foreheads together talking softly about everything, not a care in the world, not even that they were going to be exhausted the next morning.

Oralie thought that things would be different this time from the cabin but they didn't talk about her winnowing gala either. By the time blinked she had gotten all five of her match packets and had all her winnowing galas. Kenric's name had not been on a single one of them. Once the elite levels started the two drifted apart, with all the homework, and internships they barley had time to themselves. When they did it was never at the same time. It was like the universe was trying to keep them apart. Speaking of which she had to get to the universe, she grabbed her bag and ran out the door.

After class was over she had her government class, when she arrived she was surprised to see Kenric standing there as well

“Ah, Miss Oralie it's a pleasure to see you. I trust you know Kenric Fathdon.” She nodded slowly, setting her bag in the corner. She was confused usually classes were one on one except for physical education. The professor clapped his hands, he was an older man his ears were starting to form points, he had silver hair with blond roots showing, and glasses. “As I was telling Mr. Fathdon over here, as you two are about to graduate and you both are in consideration for the opening in the council,” Oralie's eyebrows shot up at that news, this was the first she was hearing about it

“If you wish to sign up here is the packet that you will need to fill out.” Oralie and Kenric nodded

“Thank you sir.”

“Yes, thank you sir.”

“You're welcome.” the teacher said and Oralie and Kenric walked out of his office.

“Do you want to hang out while we fill out the packets?” Oralie asked as they walked up the stairs to the dorms. Kenric didn't say anything, and when she turned to look at him he had stopped walking and was staring at her

"What?" Oralie asks staring at his face, he laughs

"You're joking right." When she doesn't join in and just glares at him he stops "wait, you don't really think you have a shot right?"

"Why wouldn't I?"

"Well everyone knows that empaths are just lie detectors and they already have one on the council, so they'll obviously go for the telepath." He said with an arrogant air about him, she had forgotten how annoying it could be. She also didn't think that Kenric was someone who looked down on others for their abilities

"You just wait Kenric Fathdon, I'll be a better councilor than you could ever dream of being."

"Yeah right.” He told her and after a long moment added, “well I guess that's it than huh."

"Yeah I guess it is." And without hesitation she turned and stomped back up to her room so angry that even someone who wasn't an empath could feel it.

Back at home after she finished retelling the story she turned to her mother who was sitting at the counter sipping a cup of coffee. She threw her hands in the air

"I mean can you believe him I never would've thought that he would be someone who judges what others can do based off of ability. I've gotten top marks on all my tests and am top of the class." The anger slowly started to fade, disappointment replacing it as she sat down in one of the chairs at the counter "what am I supposed to do now mom?" She heard her mom set down her ceramic mug, and her take a deep breath

"Look at me Oralie," she waited until Oralie did to continue "I think that you should apply." Oralie was surprised her mother had always supported her dreams, but she wanted her to be an emissary like her.

"But, before you said," her voice fades out as her mom said

"I know but I see now you have the passion, and the fire to change our world for the better, and you shouldn't let anyone convince you otherwise. You are so much more than a lie detector, than just an empath. You are Oralie, and I know even if you don't get elected this time you will in the future." Oralie smiled making up her mind

"Thanks mom, I know what I'm going to do now."

She went to the pond. It was a risky move considering Kenric might be there but she wasn't going to let him drive her away from where she always went to think. She grabbed the packet from her satchel, then made sure it was secure. No one would fish her bag out of the pond this time. She opened up the packet and the first three pages where surprisingly familiar to when she filled out her matchmaking packet. Age, name, when her birthday was, what she wanted to do, what her values where. Although the packet didn't have any of the romantic stuff the matchmaking one had which made sense. When she got to the last question she saw what it was, what is your ability? Without hesitation she wrote in empath never being prouder, she could care less what people thought about her talent she would prove the wrong. The last page of the packet was the rules of the councilors

I swear that if I become a councilor I will not marry nor have children, to make sure I can rule unbiased. I swear to do everything I can to help my people, I will rule because it's right and not for the fame and above all I will do everything I can to make sure the lost cities will prosper.

She read it what must've been a hundred times to make sure she was hundred and ten percent certain of what she was agreeing to before she signed her name. The next Monday she turned the packet into the same teacher that had given it to her and Kenric. As she placed it in his hand before he took it he asked

"Are you sure?" And with no hesitation or tremble in her voice she said

"Yes." He nodded taking the thick packet, he needed two hands to hold it.

"I just wanted to be sure because once they're handed in theirs no turning back." She nodded once more

"I am completely certain." The teacher nodded

"I will send you and Mr. Fathdon's packets in right away." Oralie gave a slight curtsy

"Thank you sir." She had never felt more sure of anything in her life, this is what she had always wanted, she pushed down the small part of her that was still in love with Kenric and walked out of the room, her mind made up, she was going to do everything to help her world.

Oralie was reading a novel and drinking a glass of juice before retiring to bed when she heard a knock at the door. Putting the book down but keeping her glass in hand she opened the door

“Councilor Kenric, for what do I owe the pleasure?” He fidgeted with the edge of his shirt like he used to do when they were younger, she closed her eyes and shut down the thought

“Um, may I come in?” He asked, she opened up the door wider

“Come in.” He nodded, and followed her to her sitting room. She sat in her chair that she had been reading in before gesturing for him to take a seat and asked

“What do you need?” Oralie asked cutting straight to the chase

“I wanted to clear the air. I'm sure you're wondering what took so long for you to get elected,” She nodded she had always wondered, because as far as she knew she was the only empath up for consideration. He sat up taller in the chair before continuing, “I'm the reason.”

“Why?”

“I can't tell you that.” He said, and she scoffed

“and why's that.”

“Because it's classified.”

“Well isn't that convenient.” she said, as he went to say something she held up her hand “I don't want to here it just leave, you know where the door is.” He pushed himself up from the chair and with no other words walked out. Tears burned Oralie's eyes, she felt like she'd been betrayed she and Kenric argued often, but she never thought he would go that far. She wiped the tears from her eyes refusing to cry over him. It didn't matter what was done was done, she couldn't change the past, but she would change the future with or without Kenric's support. She drank the rest of her juice, and went to put her novel away when she noticed that the page it was open too was of the two lovers getting a happy ending after everything. It had been a finals gift from Kenric when they were in level three after he had noticed her looking over his shoulder in his families cabin as he read. It was crazy how a couple years could change people's perception.

Years later Oralie sat at the pond, she and Kenric had finally made up and talked things through about two years ago and had slowly becoming closer like they were when they were younger. Oralie was tossing birdseed to the ducks, it was a nice spring day, she could hear the birds chirping in the trees and the creaking of the boards on the dock as Kenric walked up and sat next to her. He put his head on her shoulder, and she reached one arm up to play with his hair.

“Long day?” She asked he nodded

“Troll, goblin, ogre negotiations are the worst, they all want to kill each other.” She nodded sympathetically and kissed him on the forehead,

“I love you.” she whispered her head on his

“I love you too.” He smiled up at her. Out here they could just be, the rest of the council turned a blind eye since no one knew about this spot but them. According to Bronte

“At least they aren't still squabbling like school children anymore.” Suddenly Kenric perks up

“I almost forgot I have a surprise for you!” she raised her eyebrows

“What is it?” He offered a hand up

“I can't tell you silly, otherwise it won't be a surprise anymore.”  he placed his hand in hers “just trust me, you'll love it.” She nodded and followed him as he led her deeper into the woods they didn't talk but she listened to the symphony called nature, the birds, the slight breeze whistling, the sound of the leaves and sticks under their feet. As she looked around she realized she was starting to recognize their surroundings like the tree she found the firewood under the summer before the elite levels. Just then Kenric stopped sweeping his arm across a bush, gently pushing away the branches to reveal a clearing with a rebuilt cottage. As she stepped into the clearing Kenric followed behind her. Her hands came up to cover her mouth and she pointed at the cottage

“Did you rebuild the cottage?” Kenric hugged her from behind resting his head on her shoulder

“Do you like it?” She spun around in the hug and hugged him back

“I love it!” The cottage was still a light blue but it had been fixed up, a reminder of their childhood when they would study together, and play base quest with the rest of their friends. Kenric nudged her arm

“I can't wait for you to see the inside.” She let go of the hug and walked to the door with him behind her. She looked inside and felt around for the light switch for a minute before finding it when she turned it on she saw the cabin had been redone. The counter, benches, and the rest of the furniture had been fixed up. There was a new bookshelf stocked with romance novels that both Oralie and Kenric loved to read. As well as soft blankets they had found when they went to the human world, she had wondered where they had gone. In the middle of the floor was a large red and white checkered with a picnic basket on top. Oralie turned to Kenric who was leaning against the door frame

“Is this your secret project?” He nodded hesitantly

“Do you like it?” She nodded

“I love it it's amazing!” He took her hand and led her to the blanket, and they both sat down. Oralie's dress flared out beneath her. He opened the picnic basket pulling out their favorite foods, mallowmelt, porcaroot pie, pudding puffs, and cinnacreme as the beverage. They were all perfect, she looked at him as she bit into the porcaroot pie, the sweet, smoky flavor mixing with the creamy texture for perfection.

“Did you make this?” she asked and he smiled

“Yeah, I wanted to do something special for you.”

“Any particular reason?”

“Today marks the ten year anniversary of you being a councilor.” She smiled

“You remembered.” He brushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear

“Of course I did.” His hand lingered on his face, and their eyes locked like they did all those years ago during the storm

“May I?” and with no one to interrupt the kiss this time she nodded they both leaned in and it was as magical as the stories had always described, and finally the puzzle of Oralie's life felt right, like a song settling in her heart. She wished that she could tell the little girl she used to be that everything would be okay, and she get a storybook ending like she'd read about. Even if it did involve minor treason. Everything was perfect.

Writing taglist (ask to be added or removed): @gay-otlc @fintan-pyren @almostfullnerd   @you-have-been-frizzled @agent-azrail-pyren @official-kenralie-fanbase

[little-corritrice]

Fred & George ~ Silencio

Running around the halls, I was with Fred and George, all of us running from the fuming Snape, who's hair was a bright pink. After a while, we ended up near the Great Hall, and we all leaned against the wall, me leaning against George, laughing our hearts out. "I don't think I've ever seen Snape so scared." I laughed, wiping the tears that fell. We all calmed down, walking to the Gryffindor common room. We turned the hall, and I was met with the sight of my boyfriend, now ex, kissing a Slytherin girl. I didn't say anything, too consumed with betrayal. Fred was fuming, and already walking up. However, I beat him to it, pushing the girl off him. "What the actual hell, Lugo?" I scoffed, pushing him into the wall. "y-y/n, it isn't wha-" He tried, but I slapped him.

I grabbed ahold of his ear, pulling him down. "I'm going to say this once, and one time only. If I ever see you in my line of vision again, I will hex you straight into a grave. Do you understand me?" I seethed, pulling his ear. He whimpered shortly. "Yes, yes! I'm sorry!" He exclaimed, holding his ear. I let go and he stood up, but I wasn't done with him. I kneed him as hard as I could, watching him fall to the floor. "Have a nice day." I smiled, walking off. The twins were by my side in seconds, and let me tell you I didn't hear the end of it about how hot I was, and that they were proud, and somewhat surprised, by how I stood up for myself.

~~~

The next morning, I was feeling like hell. Even though I may have stood up for myself, I was only blinded by anger. Now, the sadness hit me, and all the thoughts were coming into my head. Why did he cheat? Was I not good enough? Was I not pretty enough? Kind enough? I sat by the tree, holding my head as all these thoughts went through my head. I heard a pair of sighs, before I was lifted up over someone's shoulder, but I made no effort to move. I knew the only people who had the guts to touch me were most definitely the twins. I buried my head in Fred's shoulder, holding my hand out. George held it softly, and gave it a light kiss. He stroked my knuckles with his thumb as Fred carried me all the way to the quidditch pitch. I was set down on a chair that appeared, and the twins stood in front of me. 

Fred held my cheek, leaning down to give it a kiss. George still held my hand, and leaned down to leave a lingering kiss on my head. I closed my eyes, sighing out as he moved away. "Love..."Fred started, but I didn't look at them. My hands in my lap were far too fascinating. "Darling, what's got you upset?" George asked, both boys kneeling down now. "I-It's just...I was..." I started, but took a shaky breath. George squeezed my hand, encouraging me to go on. "Was I not enough? Not funny enough? O-or m-maybe I just wasn't pretty enough..." I whispered, pulling my hands to my face. "I can't get it out of my head." I mumbled, trying not to cry. Fred and George exchanged glances, both nodding. I heard their footsteps retreating, and held back a sob. They never were good at comforting people, maybe not George, but to leave?

I stayed there, softly sobbing. I felt a breeze of cold air swoosh by me, and I rubbed my teary eyes with my sleeve. I looked up, seeing the twins. Fred hopped off his broom, lowering his hand down to me. I stared at it, before staring at him. "Come on, darling." He said quietly, and I sighed, grabbing his hand. He pulled me up, and stroked my cheeks. "Say it with me." He started. "Silencio, Lugo!" He exclaimed. "Silencio Lugo?" I said, and he nodded, smiling brightly. "Silencio Lugo!" George yelled, still on his broom. "Silencio Lugo!" I yelled back, looking at Fred. "Can you still hear him?!" He yelled, and I shook my head. "Nope! Just you!" I exclaimed, and he got on his broom, getting me on also. "Good! Now hang on!" He yelled before we took off soaring into the air. I screamed out in shock and joy, clutching onto Fred as we soared into the sky, letting the twins joy fill my mind.

[lilicy-secrets]

Don’t Panic! Brendon meets you! Chapter 1

I entered the seemingly abandoned coffee shop.  It appeared quaint and cozy as I looked at the dim lighting hitting a red fluffy couch with two matching arm chairs in front of a table littered with magazines.  There were window seats with a few throw pillows, several regular tables with about three chairs per table, and even a couple of booths.

Inhaling threw my nose, the smell of fresh brewed coffee hit me.  I pulled out an ear bud that was blaring "Ballad of Mona Lisa" by Panic! At The Disco.  I timidly walked up to the counter where a woman with gray hair pulled back in a bun, showing her heart warming smile, bright hazel eyes filled with kindness, and the wrinkles of a long life. She just carried the aura of a sweet, caring grandmother. "What can I get you, Miss?"

I looked up at the menu through my (h/l), (h/c) bangs, keeping my head slightly hung, "May I have a vanilla frap with extra cream?"  I asked loud enough for her to hear.

"Sure thing, Sweet heart."  I moved to a booth at the back of the café, and set my bag on the table.  Suddenly, the woman appeared at the table holding a cup to me.

"Thank you," I said taking the cup never meeting her eyes.  At that moment the bell to the door rang.

"Hey, Marg, how are you today," a strangely familiar voice said.  'Shit, I didn't think the kids at school would come this far away from the high dollar shops.'  Trying to become invisible, I slid closer to the wall and started rolling into a ball.

"Brendon, I'm doing well, how are you?"  'Brendon... Brendon...."

"Eh, well, Sarah called off the wedding, but I think it's for the better.  We haven't been ourselves since I proposed."

"Brendon Urie!"  I exclaimed finally realizing why the voice was familiar along with the name.  Suddenly I felt all eyes on me, and I slowly realized what I had done.  I quickly covered my mouth,  ducked my burning red face down, and shoved my ear buds back into my ears.  I quietly hummed "But It's Better If I Do," by the said male's band.  I started trying to make myself busy by grabbing out my school books and attempted to appear busy doing homework.  I had reached for my cup as I looked at the first math problem and couldn't feel it.  I looked over to where I had set it to see it floating a foot above the spot.  A hand was holding it just out of my reach.  Removing my ear buds, yet again, I spoke in a soft tone, "I-I-I'm s-sorry for eavesdropping and for my sudden outburst."  I didn't look up to face him too ashamed, and because today's bullies were particularly cruel to my face this afternoon.

"My eyes are up here," he said jokingly as he raised his hand trying to lead me to look up.

"May I please have my coffee back?  I can leave if that's what you want," I really didn't want to be teased by the man I adored due to his music.

"Hey, are you okay?" he asked concerned and taking a seat across the table.  I could now see his wonderfully pale skin, deep melted chocolate eyes, black hair gelled back, and his kissable lips through the curtain my (h/l), (h/c), (h/s hair style) hair created.

"Um... yes, I'm what people would call... strange," that was putting it into sweet words.  "This is just how I act.  Sorry, for causing you to worry for a moment."

"Why do you keep apologizing, you can't tell me that's part of your personality."  His voice held annoyance.

"Uh, yeah, I-it kind of is, sorry," I remarked wanting to kill myself on the spot for having to act like a freak when I finally get to meet my celebrity crush.  I decided to forget about getting my deliciously cold, heavenly vanilla tasting coffee.  I looked back at the math problem.  I moved to put my ear buds back in when a hand stopped my movements.  I flinched by instinct.  'Fuck, now he knows something is wrong.'  I moved my hand away from his soft, warm one and placed it back on the table fiddling with my pencil.

"So, are you really just not going to talk now while trying to pretend that this isn't an act," he asked with some confidence that he had been right.

I let out a soft sigh before looking up for the first time since the beating.  My hair moved away from my (s/c) face revealing my black, swollen right eye along with the (e/c) iris of my left.  The bloody tissue in my nose, my (l/c lip color) lips swollen and cut, and a nice bruise on my left cheek.  "I'm used to the treatment, so I've grown to just live with it," I said trying my best to keep eye contact with him.  Also, I didn't feel like crying, or begin the whole, 'self-loathing' speech I had in my head, and I definitely didn't want pity to come from him because I want to seem like the exact opposite of who I act like now.

"Wow," his hand slowly came to caress my cheek and gently cupping it to examine my wounds closer.  "I bet the other girl looks ten times worse than you," he said smiling.

I let out a gentle giggle at the thought of me actually being able to take on five queen bees at once.  "Sadly, no, but they'll get what they deserve one of these days, " I said cringing at the pain that the giggle had caused in my abdomen and face.

"Oh, I believe this is your's," he slowly slid my prize for being brave towards me.  I snatched it up and took a big gulp before letting out a satisfied sigh.

"This is my coffee, so you can no longer take it from me.  Without it, I could go into a coma or worse die of coffee depletion."  The tone in my voice was a mock stern anger, and he laughed.

"I'm sorry, Miss..."

"(y/l/n), (y/f/n) (y/l/n) is my name."

"That's a unique, beautiful name.  Now, as I was saying, I'm sorry, Miss (y/l/n).  I would hate to be the one that caused you to go to the hospital, or worse," he said in a mock British voice and giving a shiver.

I burst out laughing, "ow, don't make me do that!"

"Sorry, sorry, I didn't mean to."

I smiled slightly and looked back down at the table.  "Ugh!  Not even coffee is enough of a bribe to get me to finish this," I said tossing my pencil into my math book.

"It can't be that hard," Brendon said reaching for the book before looking back at me.  "What the hell, that isn't math, that's a foreign language."

I smirked, "if it was a foreign language, it would be solvable."

"Well, it seems that would be true, truer than the shy, timid, weak girl act you were trying to play off just now."  He sounded as if he found the treasure he had lost three years before.

"Well, kind Sir, I hate to play the role of Captain Obvious, but you really don't know me.  This being the case, anything I do or say could just be an act," I said taking a sip of my drink before looking back at the problem once again.  "Ha, maybe you're right about it being a foreign language because I just solved it," I said scribbling out the work and answer before moving on to the next one.

"How the hell did you mange that?"

"I can be an amazing girl, sometimes."  I was now on the third question.

"It would appear so," he said growing quiet.

'I guess I bored him.  Oh well, it was nice while it lasted.'  I focused on the remaining questions, and finished in ten minutes.  I put up my books and looked up to see he was there watching me.  "I know that my face causes some concern, but I'd rather not be the new attraction for the circus freak show," I said feeling my face flush and my mind running through all the horrible thoughts that could possibly coursing behind those amazing eyes at this moment.  I felt a twinge of sadness as each got worse.

"Sorry, I was just thinking how cute you are even with all the bruises and cuts, and I'm trying to picture how beautiful you are with your face healed.  Oh, I'm also questioning how the fuck you managed to get all those problems solved."

"Maybe I'm a robot with realistic flesh covering my metal shell, but then you'd say that robots can't bruise or bleed.  The answer is simple, an artificial circulatory system."

"Wow, well, now I'm really wondering if you are human or an A.I."

"Human, with a mechanical brain is probably the best bet," I looked at the clock above his head on the wall.  "Shit, hey, Brendon, I hate to say this, but I have to get going.  I have to get home," I said dreading the thought of not only leaving his side and the possibility of never meeting again, but also what I would be leaving him for.

"Oh, okay, well, it was nice meeting you, (y/f/n)," he said standing while gesturing to hug him.  I gladly accepted it before taking off out the door.

                                ~Time skip brought to you by Brendon's tattoo artist~

I got home before my parents, and got to work on the house cleaning praying that their drug dealer would be late or that they were to out of it to make it back for the next hour.  Apparently, my luck had run out when I got to have a conversation with Brendon because they walked in ten minutes after I had.

"Worthless Bitch, why the fuck is this damn house still a mess," my mother's angry shrill voice yelled.

"I told you to abort that thing when you found out it was inside of you.  You stupid cunt answer your fucking mother before we come to get your ass ourselves."

I ran to them with dish soap on my arms.  "I'm sorry my professor held me back to discuss my slightly slipping grades.  We talked about how I just needed to study a little harder."

"Do you think we're fuck idiots?  Honestly, you dumb ass whore, who the hell found you attractive enough to fuck you while we were out working our asses off."  I felt the kick and fell to the ground.  Mom poured the rest of her beer over me before walking away just to chunk the bottle at me.

"Go to your fucking room!"

I ran up the stairs and into the drafty attic.  I climbed onto the air mattress and went to the opposite side to find my blade.  Just as I was about to press it against my wrist, I heard my phone buzzing.  "What the hell," I said through tears.  I looked at the unknown number before answering.

"Hello, is this (y/f/n) (y/l/n)?"

I recognized the voice and took a deep, quiet breath to calm myself.  "Y-ye-yes," I stuttered through hiccups.  'Way to go now he's going to think you are a completely useless, depressing, suicidal, dumb ass that he doesn't need to waste his time with.'

"(y/f/n), why the hell are you crying?  Where are you?  Do you need help?  Did you get attacked?"  He began to ramble worse and worse scenarios.

"I'm crying because my parents are mad at me.  I'm at home.  I want help, but I don't think it's necessary.  I'm a little bit more beaten up then when you saw me, but all wounds heal over time."  I had no idea why I didn't evade the last question like I normally would.

"It's okay parents get upset when they think something could have happened to their kid, I would be beyond upset if I were your dad.  I mean, if anything happened to my perfect little girl."

"If only he thought like you did," I mumbled almost completely silent.

"What was that, (y/f/n)?"

"I wish I had thought like that."

"Oh, okay... next, thankfully you made it home, but, if you want help I think you should talk to your parents first.  I don't want to barge into the picture and get you in worse trouble.  Lastly, who the hell managed to get a hold of you before reaching your house?"

"I can't ask my parents for help... look, Brendon, before you decide that I'm too weak, timid, useless for you to waste your time with, I figure I should tell you the whole truth.  I'm not just beaten up by one girl at school, there is always at least five, and it's not only at school that I get attacked."  I let a heavy hearted sigh escape my lips.

"Wait... are you trying to say that your parents also abuse you."

"To put it bluntly, give me a sec I hear them coming up," I tossed my phone under my thin blanket.

"You stupid Bitch, have you decided to tell us the truth about who the hell was in our house and how long you two were together."

"Mom, I swear, I wasn't home until ten minutes before you walked through the door.  I wouldn't embarrass you like that."

"Yeah fucking right, don't lie to your mother's face," I saw my dad's hand clutching a beer bottle so tight his knuckles were white.

"Daddy, please stop.  I swear no one has stepped foot I-Ah!"  The glass bottle met my wrist as I tried protecting my head.  He swung again and the glass shattered against my chest.  Then my mom's hands wrapped around my neck.  It didn't take long for me to go unconscious.  'Brendon, I'm sorry for being so weak,' I thought before the engulfing black hole sucked me in.