#they r both detectives i like to think they bond over that

[thwackk]

their friendship is extremely underrated

[writingsonsaturn]

fake dating with tim bradford?

r needs a date to a family members wedding and she wants to go with a friend and tim is more than willing. unrequited love and maybe a little smut??

dress - tim bradford

{ masterlist }

🪐: omg 2 fics in one day?? anyways this is nastyyy smut lmfao enjoy!

word count: 2.2k

content warning: minors DNI, smut, oral (fem rec), fingering, talk of emotionally abusive parents?? if i missed anything lmk!

⭒☆━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━☆⭒

Your head bobbed with stress, your sister's wedding was this weekend and you still hadn't been able to find a date willing to accompany you. You had thought it would be easy, the moment you mentioned there would be an open bar you imagined people would be more than willing, but alas you had been wrong.

“Hey, L/n! You almost finished with the case file?” your friend and coworker Tim Bradford asked, “yeah it's finished” you replied with a sigh. “Then what are you stressin’ over?” He sat in front of your desk with a comforting smile, “my sister's wedding is this Saturday and I need a date, but havent got one yet.” you let out an exasperated sigh. 

Your mother has been on your case lately about getting your life ‘in order’. Constantly being compared to your sister was exhausting, you were never fast enough to catch up to your sister's achievements, and none of your own were good enough. “I’ll go with you” Tim interrupted your self-deprecating thoughts, “oh god Tim, you don't have to.” you tried to deflect but Tim insisted “hey, come on it'll be fun! And your mom already knows me so it'll be more believable if i'm your date then some random dude you met on tinder.” You smiled at his kindness.

You packed up your stuff, dropping your case file onto Greys desk. “Alright, well you can’t back out now. Saturday, suit and tie, four o’ clock.” you stated, pointing your finger at him. He smiled “wouldn't miss seeing you in a fancy dress for the world!” he shouted at you with a laugh.

Tim had always been your secret little work crush, he was kind to you and always had been. You both had a similar upbringing, and you bonded over that aspect. You had transferred into the precinct after moving from Orange County, you had decided you needed a new start and the LAPD had an opening for a detective and you decided to take the opportunity.

Your mother was less than pleased that you would be moving an hour away, but you were desperate to get out of her grasp. 

When you left the station your cheeks were red, and flushed. A big smile was present on your face at the image of Tim being your date to your sister’s wedding. Besides the fact he was insanely good looking, he was also just a sweet and gentle guy. Which was the complete opposite of your sister’s soon-to-be husband, and you finally felt as if you were one step ahead of your sister for the first time in your life.

On Saturday morning, you got up earlier than usual to start getting ready. Your stomach had been twisted with butterflies all morning, your dress was a navy blue fitted dress with a slit that went to your mid thigh and had a square neck. The dress flattered every aspect of your body, your hair was done in a half up half down style with a slight wave, and your shoes were black heels with securing straps going up your calf and tying just under your knee.

The sound of your heartbeat quickened as the numbers on the clock counted up towards the time you had given Tim, as if the direct moment the clock struck four there was a knock on your front door. 

Walking to the front door felt like it was taking forever, every millisecond it took you to walk to the door made your body fill with that much more anxiety. You opened the door to see Tim standing in a nice black tuxedo and a bowtie, “Oh wow, you know i’ve never seen you in a tux before but i think i like it” you snorted, walking out and closing the door to lock it. “Y/n you look-” Tim seemed flabbergasted, looking you up and down “you look absolutely beautiful” he finished his compliment. 

You blushed at his comment whispering a silent “thank you” before you both walked to the car, Tim opened the passenger side door for you. He ran around the backside of the car to get into the driver's side, “are you ready?” he asked with a small hint of reassurement. “Yeah! Let’s get this party started.” your voice was flat and lacked enthusiasm causing Tim to let out a hushed laugh. 

The venue wasn’t far, but the high tension in the car made the journey feel like an eternity. Tim barely looked at you and his knuckles were bright white with the grip he had on the steering wheel, you weren’t sure what was wrong, and you were scared to find out. You wondered if it was possibly because of the current case he was working, you knew he was put on the task of finding the drug lord and breaking into his circle but he hadn’t told you much about it.

You had simply just let it be, not wanting anything to cause your sister’s night to be ruined. Looking to your right you watch the trees pass, you become further and further away from the city. 

The wedding had gone as good as expected, your sister was giddy and excited to finally solidify her man as her husband. Tim had to hand you a tissue after your sister said her vows, although the two of you had hardships she was still your big sister and you were more than happy for her.

“Fancy seeing you here Tim, I didn’t think y/n was going to show up with anyone. Let alone someone as handsome as you.” your mother remarked, causing your mood to dampen. Tim’s arm went around your waist, pulling you towards his body, “Actually, I wanted to be here. I'm surprised I got a chance with such a great woman” Tim’s stern face glared at your mother’s as he told her off, politely. 

You hid your small smile, as your mother left with an annoyed look.

“Your mom is just ridiculous,” Tim laughed.

“Oh god, I know! I'm so sorry” you said with embarrassment.

You and Tim talked on your way up to the reception hall, the conversation flowed naturally. 

For a second, and only just a second, you allowed yourself to imagine Tim as your lover, the ease that came with talking to him made him feel like a breath of fresh air. Your heart deflated when the false reality you had encapsulated yourself in for a second was interrupted by your sister coming up to you, “y/n your seats are over there next to mom’s table, please just try and be nice to her, don't ruin this night for me.” your sister spoke loudly, you just nodded and walked over to the table while Tim got you two drinks.

Sitting alone was awful, your mom had free reign to talk to you without another person around, and you had no way of defending yourself without her causing a scene. “I don’t know your game y/n, but Tim is too good for you. He deserves a nice, well rounded woman. Don’t force him into a relationship with you, because you and I know damn well you aren’t good enough for him. Don’t be selfish.” your mother finished, before going back to her table to fake kindness to the others. 

Tim had noticed your shift in mood and he knew why, as he waited for the drinks to be poured for the two of you he watched your mother come over. He saw the way you shrunk into yourself and your eyes glossed over, he never liked your mom, everytime she would come into the station he noticed how you immediately changed your demeanor. The way your smile would falter and your back would straighten, he hated it.

He brought the drinks over to your shared table, “Here's the drink, sorry it took so long, i'm starting to think people just came for the free alcohol” Tim tried to cheer you up with a shitty joke. You smiled only to appease him but he knew you better than you thought, “actually could you come with me to the bathroom? I don't want to get lost in this place, I think it's haunted." This time Tim’s joke landed and caused a giggle to come out of you, “Yeah, I'll protect you from the big scary ghosts'' you joked, getting up from your seat to accompany Tim on his travels.

“The men’s bathroom is just on the ri-” you were cut off by the sudden pressing of Tim’s lips to yours, you immediately kissed back with vigor. He pushed your back up against the wall, As much as you wanted this all you could hear were your mom’s word circle through your head “Tim.. I- we can’t” you tried catching your breath.

“Why y/n? Is this because you don’t want it or because your mom told you, you shouldn’t?” he questioned with a stoic face, eager to get his lips back on yours.

“You deserve someone better than me, Tim” 

“You are someone better, y/n” his desperate voice needed you to understand what he was telling you.

“Do you want this?” he asked, his eyes scanning your face, trying to determine your body language. “Yes” you said quietly, afraid that this was all some cruel joke. With that he continued to kiss you, pushing you into the bathroom. 

You felt his warm hands roaming your body, “do you know how long i've wanted this? How long i've wanted to feel your breathing against my skin?” Tim questioned, his lips traveling down your neck softly. You wondered if this had been some kind of sick mind trick that was being stowed upon you in your dreams, but the euphoric touches couldn't be made up. 

Your head lolled back against the door as Tim’s hot breath traveled further down your body, your dress preventing him seeing everything he wanted. 

You whined at the loss of contact before you noticed where he had gone, opening your eyes, you looking down to see Tim getting his knees in front of you. “Oh fuck me.” you breathed out, Tim laughed at your reaction “I would like to, but im not gonna fuck you for the first time in a venue bathroom.”

The feeling of his lip’s returned to your skin, kissing agonizingly slow up your legs. He became increasingly closer to where you needed him most, your soaked core was pulsing for him, his soft eyes looked up at you smiling, allowing his hand to travel up your dress.

“No panties? Dirty girl.” he taunted your lack of clothing, you on the other hand didn’t wear underwear because you didn't want a visible panty line, but you were fine with this too. More than fine actually. 

His fingers teased your wet slit, “where do you want me?” his crisp voice asks. Your breathing hitched at the feeling of his fingers still toying with your hole, “do you want me here?” he traced your throbbing clit, “or here?” he slid his finger towards your hole. 

You were finally able to pull yourself out of the feeling to talk, “I want your mouth and your fingers everywhere” you whined. He decided not to torture you any longer, finally putting his head between your thighs and having his long awaited feast. You nearly doubled over at the feeling of his tongue against your hot cunt, you had dreamed of this moment hundreds of time’s when you were alone in your bedroom. 

You gripped tightly at his gelled hair, “oh fuck, Tim” you moaned trying your best to keep your voice down, but you were failing, with how good Tim’s tongue felt against you, you wouldnt care if the whole world heard you moaning his name. 

He continued his abuse to your clit while simultaneously circling your dripping heat, “is all of this for me?” Tim pretended to not know the answer, he wanted to hear you say it. “All for you Tim, always all for you” you didn’t realize what you had just admitted but Tim hadn’t cared to mock you for it as it only inflated his ego. “You should’ve told me sooner, could have started taking care of you a lot sooner, pretty girl.” he spoke against you before returning to suck at you bundle of nerves.

When he determined you were ready enough, he sunk a digit into your tight cunt. You moaned louder than you had intended, “i- im gonna come” your shaking voice exclaimed. 

Tim only laughed, “Already, baby? Are you that deprived?” he said in a faux concern, groaning against you when you pulled on his hair again. He thrusted his fingers in and out of you, the coil in your stomach continuing to build and tighten before it finally bursted.

He slowed down his pumping, helping you ride through your orgasm. You were breathing heavily as he got up, he held you closely in his arms doing his best to keep you upright. 

“Woah, baby, relax, i've got you” he whispered in your ear and carried you over to the sink, cleaning your mess up. “I don't think I can walk.” you joked, Tim stood between your legs rubbing your thighs soothingly. “It’s okay, i'm in no rush to get back out there believe me” he laughed and tried bringing you back down from the high you were still caught in.

“You wanna ditch?” you smirked with droopy eyes, “they won't miss me”

“Yeah let’s go, need to get home so i can fuck you right”

[mrsmiagreer]

i wanna gtk

quinn🥰

SORRY

ahem

i wanna gtk your version of sweetheart

~💋

Hey boo🫶🏽

Alr let’s talk about Sweetheart🩷

Well for starters, Her name is Mia Carter (Huh…I wonder what inspired my user🤷🏽‍♀️)

Her pronouns are she/her.

She’s 5’9 so she’s kinda on the taller side

Her mom is mexiacn and her dad is black, but her dad’s genes are REALL strong

Therefore, her skin’s on the lighter side of black, but she’s still noticeably black

and her hair is thick but her curls loosen a lot when her hair is wet

Dark brown eyes

Slim waist and FAT ASS combo (Born with it but goes to the gym to keep it)

D cup. Not huge but not small either

Has a tramp stamp with a heart in the middle, but Half of the Heart is made of a dotted line to symbolize her ability to turn invisible

Belly piercing. Hates studs, usually gets the ones that dangle

She Became a detective because after her powers manifested, the kids at school would call her criminal, stalker, eavesdropper, creep, etc. She just wanted to prove she could use her powers for good

She also really takes pride in helping people

Is really good at running on a few hours of sleep

Can hide her emotions really well, Also really emotional (It’s a double edged sword)

In.De.Pen.Dent. Can do literally everything on her own (until she met Milo of course)

Favorite color is black. Plain and simple and it goes with everything. Loves an all black look.

Listens to all types of music but looooves R&B and Rap. Loves wordplay a lot

Such a city girl. Can go to sleep to the sound of cars honking and people yelling

Their favorite season is actually Winter (Solstice time😋)

Really likes Romance Novels. She loves love.

Anxiety gets the worst when she thinks she’s upsetting/disappointing the people she loves.

Even though she makes fun of him for it, she loves when Milo big spoons her

Can throw him over her shoulder

Gets SUPER just a little sad when she calls Aggro and he doesn’t come

Loves when Her, Milo, and Aggro can nap together. Loves her little Family

Was super nervous to meet the pack. Even MORE nervous to meet Marie.

Now they’re besties. Mia fucking LOVES MARIE

Can cook. Barely. Knows how to make it taste good, but wouldn’t prefer to cook if she didn’t have to

Called off of work for days after the inversion

Doesn’t like the Fourth of July anymore

David and Mia’s relationship is literally “Don’t enable him” “Got it boss :|”

Asher and Mia are actually not as close as most people think they would be. They get along just fine, they just don’t click like crazy

Mia and Sam = Milo and Darlin. Enough said.

Angel and Sweetheart are good friends. Angel thought it was LITERALLY unreal when they found out she could turn invisible and walk through walls. All of their conversations are like shower thoughts. “Have you ever thought about going intangible and putting your hand through a person and then turning back solid?” “Actually yeah I have it sounds dope as hell honestly”

Baaabe and Sweetheart are cool friends too. They’re around the same height and they’re both workaholics, so they bond over small things. “Hey girl! Since the boys have a late shift tonight, wanna get dinner with me?” “Hell yeah, what should I dress like?”

Funny enough, although Milo and Darlin are besties, Sweetheart and Darlin are BESTIES. Literally twin flames, they hang out the most out of all the pack members and mates. Always mocking their mans’ accents, loves thrill and horror, same sense of humor, impulsive, if one gets in a fight, the other will be there in less than 10 minutes. Darlin’ threatens to steal her from Milo all the time. “If Mia does it I’ll do it” “Fuck it let’s go right now”

Honorable mention…Mia and Christian actually get along. He thinks she’s funny, and he definitely knows how not to overstep because he’s actually smart and knows that she’s not to be fucked with. Especially not about Milo. She was pretty sad when she found out that him and Amanda broke up, she liked seeing him happy.

A/N: I’m SO SORRY this took forever honestly it’s been in my drafts for a good long while. But here it is, i’ve finished it😭 Its also really long so i hope it was at least enjoyable

[aylinaliens]

Top five angst-with-a-happy-ending K-dramas!

angst with a happy ending is my FAVORITE i love it when a drama emotionally breaks me and then give me cute fluff at the end 🥰

1. Come and Hug Me

this drama truly has one of the most messed up plots out there. the FLs parents/brother were murdered by the MLs parents. i know what you’re thinking: how could this ever be a happy ending? well, there is. these two characters who went through literal hell together gets their happy ending and it’s WELL deserved. the journey is long and difficult and angsty. despite all of that the bond between the leads is actually the the sweetest thing ever. na mu and na moo were dealt the worst cards out there but they remained kind, loving, sweet, and caring. watching come & hug me felt like being punched and hugged at the same time.

2. Flower of Evil

this d r a m a. it’s so angsty and painful and intense. the FL and ML are already married & parents so the angst it delivers hits way harder. the FL is a homicide detective who, unbeknownst to her, marries a man with a dark dark past. she starts to investigate a string of murders that took place 15 years ago and starts to think that maybe her husband was the killer. the ML acts like perfect husband and father (his relationship with his daughter is so wholesome) but…is it real? or is it all pretend? flower of evil is full of pain and betrayal but it still manages to have a happy ending.

3. When the Camellia Blooms

the angst that WTCB gave us was unreal and so bittersweet but the ending was *chefs kiss*. dongbaek is a single mother who honestly is just trying to survive in a small town. she has to deal with prejudice and judgement at every turn. she ends up meeting youngshik, a police officer, who immediately falls head over heels. he’s so enchanted and amazed by dongbaek & is willing to raise her son. youngshik is a literal golden retriever so when things get angsty it HURTS. be aware that this does have a big side plot about a serial killer. it takes a lot of fighting and work for these two (three if you count her son). some of the side characters were infuriating but these two were cuties.

4. Just Between Lovers

yet another drama that feels like a punch to the face and a hug at the same time. this drama deals heavily with trauma and grief and survivors guilt. the FL and ML were both there as teens when the accident happened and lost people they loved. years later they cross paths and have to learn to navigate their feelings and trauma together. it’s angsty and a tearjerker but it’s also so sweet.

5. Thirty but Seventeen

Miss Shin Hyesun is the queen of angst with a happy ending trope (for the most part idk what happened with mr. queen). 30 but 17 is criminally underrated. when the FL is 17 she gets into an accident and is in a coma. the ML feels responsible for it so he closes himself off emotionally. 13 years later, the FL wakes up and crosses paths with the ML. neither remember each other though which leads to ✨angst✨. this drama is so heartwarming but also sad. it’s not as painful as the others but it certainly hurts. not only is it angsty but it also uses the cohabitation trope. it’s so cute GO WATCH THIS DRAMA EVERYONE.

Ask me my TOP FIVE anything

[mearnsblog]

"Big Hero 6" (2014)

If “Frozen” is an ode to the bond between sisters, then that’s what “Big Hero 6” is to the bond between brothers. And it works! It really works well, and it’s one of the best non-musicals ever made by the Disney animated studio.

What’s most impressive to me is how quickly you accept and love the bond between Hiro and Tadashi. They don’t need to get into the specifics of how they lost their parents, how Tadashi pulled himself together to help support his younger brother, or how Tadashi got into robotics in the first place. There’s a reason why “Show, don’t tell” is such a time-tested formula for the best movies. Just like Hiro, the audience is sent reeling when Tadashi is suddenly killed in the explosion at the university. It’s not just through Hiro though; by smartly weaving in their aunt and all of Tadashi’s friends at school, you understand what he meant to them, too. None of these scenes are long! By making Hiro the audience surrogate in meeting the gang, they get to be both introductory and effective.

The same goes for Baymax. I entered this movie knowing essentially nothing about “Big Hero 6” aside from Baymax being the most memorable character. Like the friends at school, Tadashi introduces Hiro to Baymax early on, and it’s not until after Tadashi’s death that Baymax really enters the plot. He becomes a brother of sorts to Hiro, too, both a guardian through his medical skill, counseling, and ability, and a younger brother through Hiro teaching him about what we knows about the world. But Baymax saves Hiro from his worst, most angry tendencies by bringing Tadashi back into the story in his own way.

“You’re gonna help so many people, buddy. So many." - Tadashi to Baymax

All the voice actors are on top of their game, but there’s such a simple, funny, sweet tone that “30 Rock” legend Scott Adsit lends to Baymax. And just like Tadashi (a superb Daniel Henney), it’s gutting when the original Baymax has to goodbye. The cause in his sacrifice is at least worthy, and it’s a mark of Hiro growing up that he sadly accepts Baymax’s commitment to get both him and the professor’s lost daughter home. (By the way: San Fransokyo? A+, no notes.)

The animation’s amazing, the side characters do their job of providing heart and humor without taking over the overriding narrative, and even with villains, you sort of understand their frustrations. Well, not so much the idiot tech venture capitalist guy, but, well, there are plenty of those out there in the world, too. It’s not restricted to the fictional San Fransokyo, unfortunately.

I don’t really have a good reason for keeping “Big Hero 6” down at 10th because I honestly enjoyed it about as much as any Disney movie. It’s 5/5, 10/10, whatever you want to call it. I think deep down, I just love the musicals more, and “Wreck-It Ralph” just plunges right into the depths of my long-ago gaming soul. I would recommend this to anyone though. It somehow strikes the balance of not taking itself too seriously while also being sincere and touching.

I am satisfied with my care.

Updated ranking

1. “Beauty and the Beast” (review) 2. “The Lion King” (review) 3. “The Little Mermaid” (review) 4. “Cinderella” (review) 5. “Mulan” (review) 6. “Tangled” (review) 7.  “Wreck-It Ralph” (review) 8. “Frozen” (review) 9. “Sleeping Beauty” (review) 10. "Big Hero 6" 11. “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (review) 12. “Aladdin” (review) 13. “The Emperor’s New Groove” (review) 14. “One Hundred and One Dalmatians” (review) 15. “The Jungle Book” (review) 16. “Lilo & Stitch” (review) 17. “The Great Mouse Detective” (review) 18. “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” (review) 19. “Fantasia” (review) 20. “The Rescuers Down Under” (review) 21. “Tarzan” (review) 22. “The Princess and the Frog” (review) 23. “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” (review) 24. “Alice in Wonderland” (review) 25. “Lady and the Tramp” (review) 26. “Pinocchio” (review) 27. “Robin Hood” (review) 28. “Oliver & Company” (review) 29. “Hercules” (review) 30. “Pocahontas” (review) 31. “The Rescuers” (review) 32. “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad” (review) 33. “Bambi” (review) 34. “Peter Pan” (review) 35. “The Aristocats” (review) 36. “Fantasia 2000″ (review) 37. “Dumbo” (review) 38. “Bolt” (review) 39. “Meet the Robinsons” (review) 40. “Treasure Planet” (review) 41. “Chicken Little” (review) 42. “Fun and Fancy Free” (review) 43. “The Fox and the Hound” (review) 44. “The Sword in the Stone” (review) 45. “Atlantis: The Lost Empire” (review) 46. “The Three Caballeros” (review) 47. “Make Mine Music” (review) 48. “Brother Bear” (review) 49. “Winnie the Pooh” (review) 50. “Dinosaur” (review) 51. “The Black Cauldron” (review) 52. “Saludos Amigos” (review) 53. “Melody Time” (review) 54. “Home on the Range” (review)

[adventuresinqueue]

☄ — Some people say that Ezra Rillin Greenberg could be Ronen Rubinstein ’s doppelgänger, but is really a 28 year old Firefighter + Paramedic . They mainly identified as a Bi-Sexual Cis-Male , and described to be charming, intelligent, overachiever, & ambivert .

TAGS ➾

Wanted Plots  ||  Photographs  ||  Conversations  || Musing/Aesthetics  ||  Relationship Page

■ . B A C K G R O U N D . ■

TW: Mentions of Child Abandonment

Ezra and his three years younger brother grew up without their father in their lives. His mom raised them on her own, and as Ezra grew older, he saw the more she struggled with the two boys. When he was 13, he started to help out around the house more, even helping his baby brother with his homework, walking with him to and from school, and helping with making dinner. No, he was no gourmet chef, but he knew how to make a mean Mac n’ Cheese, Grilled Cheese, and heat soup their mom would buy. Whatever way Ezra could help his mother, he would do the very best he could because now he is the man of the house, and that is his actual duty.

When he was 16, Ezra finally got his driver’s license and got a job/volunteer job at the hospital with his mom. Well, in the hospital kitchen, but it was something to get him out of the house. Plus more ways he could help his mom. He did break loose and go to high school parties and hangouts with his friends every so often, but he was more of a homebody. Thus, he would only stay for a few hours before heading back home, in time to pick up lunch for his mom’s overnight shifts, and home to relieve his next-door neighbor from babysitting his sleeping brother.

Eventually, when he turned 17 and graduated high school, Ezra knew precisely what he wanted to do - follow in his mother’s footsteps, well, sort of - he wanted to help people. However, he wasn’t sure he could do what nurses and doctors do on a daily, exhausting basis.

Setting his sights on Salem, Massachusetts - Ezra went through a cardiopulmonary resuscitation program to get his certification and apply to the Paramedic position at Salem Fire Department. Which he didn’t realize would be slightly more complicated than he realized, but also fun and thrilling. However, Ezra couldn’t lie about the most challenging part of being away from his mom and 15-year-old brother. Don’t get him wrong, he realizes that it’s better for his mom that now she only has one son to focus on instead of two, but he still worries over her and his baby brother. So, every night when he got home from his shifts, he would call them and check up on them, wishing that they could follow him out to Salem, but he knew better than to push a big move on his mom.

Now being 27, he decided to pick up dual responsibilities within his career - he chose to be a paramedic and a firefighter. Still even having small thoughts about moving his small family in Myrtle Beach to a town he’s grown to adore.

■ . I M P O R T A N T . C O N N E C T I O N S. ■

♢ Little Brother — The Greenberg boys are the only sons of Elizabeth Greenberg & when they were both young, their father left them with no word nor warning. Thus, growing up, Ezra became a father figure and an older brother to his younger brother. The two are three years apart, and they are considerably close - more times than not, they seem as if they are best friends rather than brothers. There isn’t a day that goes by where Ezra doesn’t wish his mom and his brother would move to Salem with him. ♢ Ride -or- Die — Being a part of the Fire & Rescue team, there is an unspeakable bond. It’s a kind of bond with others that you didn’t have to say anything for the other person to know precisely what you are thinking. Well, Ezra had a bond like this with one person that was stronger over the others. The two are inseparable, and just about nothing could break them apart. ♢ Enemy to Frenemy — Like cats & dogs, detectives & lawyer - Ezra and the other despised one another. For a reason, at least he couldn’t remember; they just never typically got along since the moment he arrived in Salem. However, one day (through some “venue” or something), the two became friends. Not close nor necessarily good friends. Just friends - frenemies, more or less

[teawaffles]

The Fugitives from the Fire: Chapter 4

Note: Some language. Also, this is a long chapter!

Aside: The chapter numbering has been altered slightly — the previous chapter is now just Chapter 3, rather than Chapter 3 Part 1.

Lestrade seemed mortified that they hadn’t even managed to preserve the scene of the crime, for his shoulders quietly slumped.

“Have you managed to deduce anything so far?” he asked Sherlock.

The detective spoke languidly.

“First off, about the man in the room…… Let’s assume he was not only dead, but also murdered. Then if we take the straightforward explanation that it’d been blood on his back, he would’ve most likely been killed using a physical weapon; I’m thinking it could be either a stab or shot wound. As for potential suspects…… An obvious one would be the other fugitive. For motive, they could’ve had a simple falling-out, or maybe he wanted to silence his accomplice for fear of his own arrest.”

The inspector brooded over his analysis.

“A stab or shot wound, hmm. If it’s the former, the attacker would’ve needed to break into the room.”

“Yep, so the most promising candidate right now’s that ‘In the middle of the chaos from the fire, the man had been sniped through the window’.”

“If that’s the case, then does it mean the fire had been an act of arson?”

“It’s highly likely. Do we have a detailed description of the room’s furnishings?”

“For that, let’s ask the officer who witnessed the scene himself.”

Lestrade made a strangely grim expression, then looked in the distance, beckoning someone to come over. But when Sherlock saw him, his jaw dropped.

“……So it’s you.”

“Yeah. It’s me.”

It was Assistant Inspector Gregson. Sherlock was lost for words; before him, Gregson scowled and crossed his arms. He had been the officer who’d stood watch outside the room when the incident occurred, and the sole witness of the murder scene.

Now that he knew that, Sherlock finally understood why the man had been acting strange earlier.

“Ohh, I see. It’s no wonder you didn’t want to face us — the criminal you arrested had been killed before your very eyes.”

Sherlock smirked, and Gregson replied in frustration.

“I-I’m keenly aware of my responsibility in this. But at any rate, as a police officer, I have no reason to feel indebted to you.”

“I’m not accusing you of anything. But from what you said, that means you were the one who’d been in charge of the scene back then. Was there some reason why you chose to remain behind and stand watch?”

Gregson seemed to find it difficult to say aloud.

“……During the interrogation, a crowd had formed around the building; in order to calm them down, I’d wanted to mobilise all the officers at the scene with me. But we absolutely needed someone to keep watch over the fugitive, and I thought my personality wouldn’t be suited to placating the residents here, so I remained behind…… Though, now that I think about it, that had been a rather short-sighted judgement.”

Gregson narrowed his eyes, seemingly vexed at his own mistake, but Lestrade cut in.

“No, I think that was quite a logical decision. Moreover, to begin with, all of you were sent to such a difficult scene on my orders. So part of the blame rests with me as well.”

“N-No, you’re not at fault here, Inspector; it was all due to my carelessness.”

As Lestrade and his subordinate argued back and forth, Sherlock raised a hand to stop them.

“Sorry, but let’s talk about who’s to blame later. For now, our priority’s to share information, isn’t it?”

Annoyed at being spoken to like that by the detective he so detested, Gregson turned to face Lestrade.

“……Well then, what would you like to know, Inspector?”

“The furnishings in the room, please.”

Gregson’s gaze trailed upward as he recalled what he saw back then.

“About the interior, there wasn’t anything particularly unusual. The room was rectangular, with a small bed, a table and two chairs. As for entry points, there was a window on its north side, and the needlessly sturdy door opposite it. There wasn’t even a mirror nor a bathroom.”

Hearing that, Sherlock’s expression turned serious.

“So it was really just a place to sleep. Then, about the man who collapsed while handcuffed to the chair or something — what part of the room was he in?”

Gregson glared hatefully at him, and responded in a thorny tone.

“When I looked through the keyhole, he was on the floor right before my eyes. It was around one step away from the door. And his back — or more precisely, the area stretching from his back to somewhere around his waist — was stained the colour of blood.”

At this point, Sherlock asked a question.

“The victim’s hands were each cuffed to the chair’s armrests, right? If he’d still been in that state, I thought the chair would’ve been resting on his back.”

Furrowing his brows, Gregson crossed his arms.

“There was only so much I could see through the keyhole, so I didn’t manage to get a look at his entire body; but the chair was nowhere near his back. This is just my speculation, but I think he might’ve forcefully broken the armrests and escaped his bonds.”

“Was the chair really that shoddy?”

“……He didn’t put up much of a fight when we arrested him, so I got careless and used something close by to restrain him. On second thought, it was remiss of me to do so.”

Hearing Gregson’s reflection, Sherlock contemplated the fugitive’s exact movements.

“So that means he managed to get free of the chair, and move around the room with his hands still cuffed. In that case, wouldn’t he have made some noise? Though, the commotion from the residents back then might have drowned it out.”

“I don’t think so; even if there had been the sound of the chair breaking, I’m sure I would’ve noticed it. The problem is what happened after the fire began. Back then, I was in a panic, and both the inside and outside of the building were in such an uproar that I didn’t have the attention to notice any noises coming from the room.”

Mortified, Gregson lowered his gaze once again, but Sherlock continued in a calm voice.

“So the arrested fugitive didn’t make his move until the fire broke out. Was there anything in the room that could’ve been used as a weapon?”

“Of course, we thoroughly inspected the room before the interrogation began. From the start, that was the room the man himself had stayed in, so we searched it down to the very corners in case he had hidden anything inside. But we didn’t find anything that could’ve been used as a weapon.”

Gregson said so with certainty, but Sherlock was still not convinced.

“Obviously there were things that could’ve been used to kill or wound, now weren’t there? If he’d broken the wooden armrests, the pieces could have been fashioned into a stake. Even if he didn’t do that, he could’ve broken off wood from the floor or the wall, and created a weapon in the same way.”

“……It sounds like you’re saying he could’ve taken advantage of the commotion from the fire to commit suicide. But even if, as you suggested, he tried to kill himself with a sharp object, normally one would try to cut their neck — it’s hard to believe he would’ve stabbed himself with enough force for the weapon to pierce through his back.”

Gregson had made a reasonable argument; but even as he concurred, Sherlock put forward a different perspective.

“However, let’s say he did break off some wood from the floor or wall, and pared it into a sharp point: what if, when he was moving around, he accidentally fell onto it? It’s not clear whether it was deliberate or unintentional, but I’m thinking it was a fatal wound.”

Sherlock was still pursuing the idea that the criminal had died by his own hand. Hearing that, for a moment, Gregson forgot his animosity and pondered. Then, he shook his head in a gentle denial.

“I don’t think that’s the case either. If it were, there would’ve been some sharp object and bloodstains left in the room. But from what I saw through the keyhole, the walls and floor were clean, and there’d been nothing resembling bloodstains. There were some tiny splatters of something like blood around the body, as well as little puddles of the same substance; but in terms of noticeable bloodstains, that was all I saw.”

“——Only that? If he’d bled out enough for his back to be dyed red, there should’ve been an equivalent amount of blood splattered all around him.”

Sherlock tilted his head. Gregson also thought it strange, and knitted his brows.

“It gets stranger and stranger the more I think about it. It doesn’t seem to be the case that the weapon staunched the wound when he was stabbed…… Maybe he’s anaemic?”

“…………”

It wasn’t clear whether Gregson had been joking, or if that had been unintentional. With a thoughtful look, Sherlock kept his mouth shut.

Then Lestrade, who’d been listening attentively thus far, offered his own theory.

“From what I’ve heard, it seems this is neither a suicide nor an accident. Then what if he was just pretending to be dead? Perhaps the other fugitive had started the fire at some prearranged time. Then the man who’d been caught pretended to be dead, and waited for the officer outside to leave before escaping. Maybe he purposely collapsed in front of the door, in order to have Gregson witness it. As for the blood, he could’ve used some red paint to fake it.”

But Sherlock disputed that view.

“It’s not a bad theory, but then the question remains as to how he managed to splatter the paint in that way. Moreover, he probably wanted to escape the inn; but the other officers had secured the area around the building, right?”

Hearing that, Gregson scowled.

“I don’t like agreeing with you…… But certainly, I didn’t receive any reports that he’d left the room.”

Sherlock looked at the charred ruins of the inn.

“Then he hadn’t managed to escape, so it’s highly likely that he’s been burnt to a crisp in there. Just wondering, were there any secret passages in the room?”

Astonished, Gregson chuckled.

“No way; it’s not like this is a secret base. Besides, we checked the room thoroughly: even if there had been an escape route, we would’ve found it.”

“If we’re talking about escape routes, he could have also broken through the walls or the floor, couldn’t he?”

Gregson pondered over Lestrade’s question for a second, then shook his head gently.

“Certainly, the inn was old, and also not maintained very well: various parts of the walls and floor were decaying, and I even saw some tiny holes where they had rotted through. If we’d taken the time and effort, I think it would’ve been possible to break through them. Still, just like the chair, I’m sure I would’ve caught the sound of the walls or floorboards being stripped off — I was standing right in front of the room. Moreover, if he only started his work after I left, then he would’ve been caught in the blaze before he managed to complete his escape.”

“……I see. The fire seems to have spread pretty fast, and it would’ve been impossible for him to finish the passage right away, now wouldn’t it?” Lestrade agreed.

Then, Sherlock clapped his hands together.

“With that, we’ve eliminated the theory that he faked his death and escaped. We can’t be fully certain until the debris has been searched; but at present, by the process of elimination, there are no longer any obstacles to the theory that this is a locked-room murder, yes?”

Sherlock weaved together the various sources of information as he made that assertion, and Lestrade concurred.

“In that case, just as I’d thought, we’ll need to search for the other fugitive. But a long time has passed since the fire broke out: wouldn’t he have already escaped?”

“About that, Inspector: I have one piece of good news.”

With a proud expression, Gregson continued.

“We know that the other fugitive has burns on his face. Among the guests who evacuated the inn during the fire, there were three men with such injuries.”

“Really? ……But, couldn’t they just be regular people who got caught in the fire?”

Lestrade was doubtful. Immediately, Sherlock responded.

“Not necessarily; no one had entered or left the inn both before and after the fire, so naturally, the arsonist must’ve been inside the building……. Is that what you wanted to say, Mr Assistant Inspector?”

“……Yeah.”

Having had the role of explaining the situation stolen from him, Gregson responded blandly.

An assistant inspector who detested detectives, and the detective himself who enjoyed that antipathy. Hearing their usual exchange, Lestrade broke into a wry smile.

“In that case, we should meet the three and talk to them.”

“Of course; they’ve been gathered at a different location, so…… Hmm?”

Just as Gregson was about to show him the way, he suddenly frowned. Once again, the crowd that had amassed near the scene was starting to make a commotion.

“Oi, you shitty bobbies! There’s soot all over the place, and it’s a pain in the ass!”

“This must be all your doing, oi!”

“Don’t think you can just go home scot-free after all you’ve done here!”

Now that the fire had been put out, it seemed the locals’ anger towards the Yard had gradually been rekindled; all at once, the residents of the slums began to kick up a fuss. As foul-mouthed insults were launched from one group, a torrent of frustration exploded from another in a chain reaction — in a flash, Lestrade and the others were stranded in a storm of fury.

Their enmity had surged out of the blue, and Lestrade was clearly on edge.

“This isn’t good. We’ll have to calm them down and try to explain that we’ve been only pursuing the criminals.”

“That won't work: they were already annoyed when the Yard arrived, and then that fire broke out — it’s more than enough to make them furious.”

Sherlock calmly analysed the situation, but Gregson’s reply was steeped in frustration.

“Then what should we do? At this rate, we’ll have a real fight on our hands.”

Still, Sherlock was unruffled.

“The answer’s clear and simple: get on with it and find the real culprit. Once we reveal the actual cause of the fire, they should calm down. Our job hasn’t changed — it’s just that the time limit has morphed into something we can see.”

“……So we have until their anger reaches a boiling point?”

At once, Lestrade understood what needed to be done. He heaved one big sigh, and put on his game face once again.

“Gregson: show Holmes to the suspects. I’ll work with the others to appease the crowd. While we’re keeping a lid on the situation, I want you two to solve the case together.”

“‘Eh?’”

Both Gregson and Sherlock exclaimed in perfect harmony. Then they looked at one another; The detective lowered his gaze slightly as he thought it through, then let out a thin exhale.

“So it’s come to this.”

“Oi, I could see you giving up after thinking about a lot of things, you know.”

Gregson glared at him in disapproval. Meanwhile, Lestrade placed a hand on each of their shoulders.

“Alright: I’m counting on you both.”

Leaving just those reassuring words behind, he left gallantly towards the crowd. Eloquently, the inspector had entrusted the entire investigation to them, and Sherlock’s eyes were filled with resignation as he watched the man depart.

“Now this has gotten troublesome,” he mumbled.

“Hmm? Are you talking about the case? Or about the fact that we’re working together?”

“No, no, I’m talking about how this has become a rather odd ‘riddle’.”

Gregson’s ears had been sharp, but Sherlock parried his retort with diplomacy.

——“Hang in there, Sherlock!”

Having been paired up with a troublesome man, in a glum Sherlock’s mind, it felt as though John’s encouraging cheers were ringing out.

Translator’s notes

Mysteries and ‘riddles’

You might have noticed that Sherlock and Lestrade sometimes talk about ‘riddles’. The original text differentiates between 謎 and〝謎〟(notice the quotes) — the word itself means mystery/riddle, but the quoted version is used to refer to the mysteries that are (possibly) linked to the Lord of Crime. For instance, at the end of Forbidden Games (Book 2 Story 1), William also talks about the ‘riddles’ he sets for Sherlock.

I chose to translate the quoted version as ‘riddles’, since I think the word ‘mystery’ implies that the case might not have a solution; in contrast, I feel the word ’riddle’ suggests that the mystery has a solution, since it was intentionally created by William in the first place.

[actualbird]

Herb anon you're a genius xgjxgj but what if over time every single one of the boys gets entangled with shipping. Vyn and Luke are the first to know about it but they've been going on with Artem and Marius much longer.

I'm pretty sure some of the people in the law firm already ship Ingrid and Artem, it's probably been kind of a niche thing that's mostly overshadowed by other stuff but is still there if you know where to look. Artem does not know where to look because he doesn't look for it on the first place, almost no one dares to talk about it with him and those that do already know it's not true. He remains blissfully unaware until one day mc brings it up offhandedly and curses Artem with this knowledge.

Marius probably gets speculation on his love life from tabloids all the time so it doesn't affect him that much. Instead, much like Luke, he discovers real person fiction of him and the people the tabloids gossip about. Half of these people are business partners at most.

The support group for people being shipped slowly grows over time with everyone outside looking at them with mild concern until they experience it for themselves. All they do is confort one another for their shipping woes while pointedly avoiding talking about any specifics because no one wants to get into that and everyone can relate.

🌌

irt ppl misunderstanding and shipping vyn/giann n luke/sphynx

eyyo, milkyway and herb :DDD answering both of these in one go and jkbkKJBSKDJGKSDJG GOD

milkyway, u really said "ship all the nxx with ppl they dont wanna be shipped with, It's Equality" and for that, ur amazing.

also, if u want a good fic where ppl think artem and ingrid were a thing, BOY DO I GOT A FIC FOR YOU!!! look on the bright side (you have a best friend) by samandspam has that and SO MUCH MORE it's a great fic, i deffo recco it!!

agree that marius is like no longer bothered. every other week the tabloids think hes gotten together with just anyone high class he has to take to dinner for a business thing. marius be like "awww, you guys r ruffled cuz of relationship assumptions? thats a regular tuesday for me lol" but he does still offer comfort cuz the others r not used to it kjsdbfkdjs.

also, all of them eventually having this in common is hilarious to me (which, kinda sorry about @ nxx team!! comedy is sometimes absurdity a character NEVER WANTS TO BE IN. it's like how we laugh at the cabbage in avatar: the last airbender. terrible day for him but man is it funny). this is certainly Some Kind Of Team Building. but guys, thats what u get for being well known hot people.

and the funniest thing i want to happen in this scenario is that no matter how many times the team is seen with each other, nobody thinks to ship them with each other. totally goes over everybody's head.

and aaawwww, herb!!! im oddly emotional about vyn and luke bonding over this :'). which probably isnt the correct reaction to this but ive never had a correct reaction to anything in my life kfbksjf.

when vyn and luke start getting shipped, both of them let out a strange sigh of relief. cuz this is weirdly not as bad!!! maybe theyll even own it, a bit. luke coming over to a meeting and being like

luke: oh, where is my beloved dr. richter!!! i've brought you a croissant!!!!

vyn: ah, my beloved detective, you know how to make my heart sing with love :)

artem, whispering to mc: what is happening?

mc, whispering back to him: honestly, i dont know but they seem happy

marius, yelling: HEY, CAN I BE BELOVED TOO? I WANT A CROISSANT

[shirtlesssammy]

3x14: Long-Distance Call

Guys! We have a special surprise next week!! (Hint: We finally get to recap the gay angel episodes again!) Until then, enjoy our last episode for season 3...

Then:

Sam’s saving his brother no matter what

Now:

On a stormy night, a man drinks alone, contemplating life. His phone rings. It’s Linda. Ben tells her he can’t. “My wife.” He hangs up the phone. It rings again. Linda pleads with him. She loves him. He hangs up again. The phone rings AGAIN. He slams it down repeatedly and tears it from the wall. IT RINGS AGAIN! Damn, Linda, you are persistent. To stop the ringing, Ben pulls out a gun and shoots himself. 

Dean tells Sam they have a case. Sam tells Dean that they’re on a case --his. Dean balks at that because they’ve got nothing. Bela’s gone, the Colt’s gone, and Dean would rather work a case they can solve than wallow in his imminent death. 

They head to Milan, Ohio. They head right to the dead guy’s house and interview his widow. She’s a little belligerent but tells them that there was blood everywhere (Oh, that’s why she’s belligerent), favorite scotch was out, and the phone was ripped from the wall. 

Sam asks to look at the crime scene. He goes through the caller ID. Dean asks about strange phone calls. She admits that a couple weeks prior she picked up on a call that Ben was on. It was static. No one was there. 

Research time!

Dean finds out that “Linda” was Ben’s high school sweetheart --and she died in a car accident. On top of that, she was cremated. On top on top of that, Sam discovered that the caller ID on the phone traces back to a phone number used a century ago! (I presume Sam did all that research while he stared out the window.) 

They head to the bowels of the phone company to find fly infested, porn addicted Stewie. I’m going to skip over all this but will laugh at the ad that said “Order now & receive a bone-us gift!” Sam asks Stewie to trace the old-time number. (Natasha: flames on the side of my face at this damn offensive porn franchise.)

Dean pulls out the threat level 5 on the guy and the guy finds some results. There’s different houses that all received a call from that number. 

Sam heads to investigate one house. He poses as a phone company employee. He asks about strange phone activity. The man that answers the phone says that they haven’t had any issues. Sam notices the daughter looking concerned in the background. 

She pops outside to call his bluff. She wants to know why he was asking about the phones. He gives her a little give and she admits that she’s been talking on the phone with her mom --who’s dead. 

Dean checks in with similar stories. Then he gets a call. It’s the static-y voice of John Winchester. 

Later at the motel, Sam wants to know more about Dean’s call. Dean gets all nervous boy about it possibly really being their dad, and what they should do about it. What should Dean say? Sam, ever the pragmatist, suggests, “hello.” It’s funny, but I guess not really because Dean walks out on his brother. 

Dean comes back with a reason why things are happening here. It’s the birthplace of Thomas Edison, and there’s a museum with Edison’s spirit phone. 

They take a tour but the phone doesn’t have any EMF. They’re stumped as to what’s happening. 

Later that night, while Sam slumbers, Dean stays awake to answer his phone. John calls again. He asks Dean how he could sell his soul. “I was looking after Sammy like you told me to.” (Boris screams into the void) John tells Dean that the demon that holds Dean’s contract is in Ohio. 

Meanwhile, the daughter from earlier is IMing a friend when she gets a message from her dead mom. The mom says she wants to see her. The girl is scared but her mom reassures her that she’s with her. Then the girl’s computer flickers out and in the reflection of the monitor, we see the girl and her mom. 

The next morning, Sam returns from interviewing Lanie, the haunted daughter, to find Dean obsessing over demon omens. He shares his intel with Sam. 

Dean’s pretty sure the demon who owns his contract is following him. I pull a Dean voice to say, “Why are you so obsessed with me?” only Dean’s actual line in the show is “My ass is too sweet to let out of sight.” God. This show. Sam tries to tell him that the demon-killing exorcism that John gave Dean over the phone might not be as advertised. Dean’s a believer, though. He’s got faith in John! (Just gonna take a li’l writing break to tear at my hair.) 

Sam heads back to watch over Lanie, but before he goes the Winchesters hold an emotional shouting match. Dean’s ready to stop the demon from coming after him once and for all and thinks that Sam’s reticence is just more head-butting with their (now dead) dad. Sam accuses Dean of having “blind faith” towards his father and I weep. Sam leaves with one request: that Dean stay put until he returns from seeing Lanie. So. That’s going to go well. 

Lanie explains to Sam what’s been going on - that her mom’s requests have extended beyond the normal grieving cemetery visit. We cut to a young kid playing in his room. His toy phone rings. “Hi, mommy!” he chirps. 

Cut to Dean “Single Man Tear” Winchester sitting dramatically by his phone. It rings. 

Lanie reveals to Sam that her mother’s ghost told her to kill herself. When Sam hears the ghost’s catchphrase, “come to me,” he realizes that they’re dealing with something else entirely. 

While Sam experiences revelation, Dean heads off alone following his dad’s orders. f r o w n y f a c e. He ends up in a quiet, suburban home.

Meanwhile, Lanie’s brother Simon (of the toy phone fame) has gone missing. Sam saves him just in time from getting pancaked by a truck. As soon as the kids are buttoned up back home, Sam calls Dean. He tells him that a crocatta is after the people of the town. It’s a scavenger that lures grieving people and eats their souls. It tends to dwell in filth. Dean recalls the flies at the phone company, so Sam heads out on a hunt. (Meanwhile, YES, Dean’s off having his own questionable adventures, setting demon traps in a nearby house.)

Sam calls Dean for backup before assaulting Stewie, the phone guy. “I know what you are and I know how to kill you,” Sam says to the terrified guy. Someone looms behind Sam with a baseball bat. It’s Clark, the manager! He takes out poor soft-headed Sammy. Unfortunately, Clark takes out Stewie too. 

They both wake up tied to chairs inside the building. Clark kills Stewie and then fangs out. He unhinges his jaw and sucks out Stewie’s soul. Yummy? Clark then lays his hands on the phone console...because it’s time to kill Dean!

Elsewhere, in a police locker room, a man’s phone rings. It’s his daughter. “I know who killed me, daddy,” she says. The girl’s voice tells him that her killer is at their house right now. 

Clark explains to Sam that spoofing John Winchester was incredibly easy. All he had to do was find their phone numbers, then John’s old numbers. That let him listen to voicemails, read emails, and easily find the weak links that led him to target Dean. Oof. (Side note: a crocatta would make a seriously amazing private detective in an alternate Supernatural where monsters have better meal restraint.) 

Dean stands ready at the suburban house - ready to kill a demon. The grieving officer heads home, ready to kill his daughter’s murderer. 

Dean’s jug of holy water is met with an angry father with a shotgun, so things start out really well. They quickly devolve into a dirty fist fight. 

Meanwhile, the crocatta continues to villain-monologue at Sam.

Technology, Clark says, makes it so much easier to target people. They’re connected - yet isolated and easier to pick off. (I scoff at this overdone oversimplification of the role of “technology” in society. I hate when people try to pretend the past was trouble-free.) Sam finds his argument weak as well, and punctuates that by breaking free of his bonds and attacking Clark. 

At the house, Dean disarms the grieving cop and reveals the demon trap below the carpet. He starts reading out the exorcism. To his horror, the guy walks right out of the demon trap. When the guy accuses him of killing his daughter, the pieces click for Dean.

Sam kills Clark by jabbing his head into a retail hook suspended off the wall. OH I SEE, this show has always been obsessed with death by hook. >:| 

Dean and the officer avoid killing each other. Instead, they despair in beaten silence together, before we cut to Dean holding a compress to his forehead back at the motel.

Sam and Dean go over the case back in the motel, but talk quickly switches to EMOTIONS. Sam apologizes to Dean. Dean admits he was wrong. “I wanted to believe so badly,” he says. STORY OF HIS LIFE DAMN IT. He admits that he’s terrified of dying. Terrified of Hell. 

Sam gives him sad puppy eyes. “There’s nothing wrong with having hope.”

“Hope doesn’t get you jack squat,” Dean tells him.

For Sad Boys with Poor Coping Mechanisms Science:

Call Me By Your Quote:

I just talked to an 84 year old grandmother who's having phone sex with her husband, who died in Korea! It redefined my understanding of the word 'Necrophilia'

That’s what happens when you mess with the phone company, dillweed

 Want to read more? Check out our Recap Archive!

[kingandfireheart]

Mating Bonds: a mostly neutral analysis of the bonds in ACOTAR universe

I know everyone is like SECRET AZRIEL MATING BOND, but isn’t the whole point of the mating bond in non-Maeve situations supposed to be that once it snaps, the instincts takeover and it’s hard to ignore, or miss? In doing this analysis, I noticed some trends with mating bond, but mostly realized that I have a lot more questions than answers when it comes to how these bonds actually work in practice. My musings are below:

[Since TOG is a different universe and Rowaelin's mating bond is complicated because of Maeve's foul play, the coexistent Carranam bond, and the blood oath, this analysis does not include any discussion of their bond, and is limited to the bonds discussed in ACOTAR. ]

How the bond choses a couple?

The concept of the bond is a bit nebulous. Rhys hypothesizes that the mating bond is the result of guesswork, possibly related to power, offspring, or a soul-bond, but we don't really know how accurate that is.

The power theory makes sense with the bonds we know exist, if the Cauldron is able to predict the power the Archeron sisters have after being Made. While we have evidence that Nesta and Feyre are mated to Cassian and Rhys prior to being Made, they don't gain that power until they are Made. All of the mated pairs we know are incredibly powerful (either high lords, a high lord's heir, and Cassian, and three Archeron sisters, Rhys and Tamlin's moms, and Vivianne).

The offspring theory, makes significantly less sense, unless we assume that the Cauldron/Mother/whoever decides these things is all-knowing. Clearly, Rhys's parent's mating resulted in the most powerful high lord. However, with same-sex mates, this theory immediately fails. Even if the offspring theory for some reason didn't apply to same-sex couple, or couples that were otherwise unable to procreate, it still doesn't work for the Illyrian Male + High Fae Female bonds, which would likely lead to death, unless the Cauldron was able to predict the changes Nesta makes to herself and Feyre. Any offspring of the Made Archeron sisters would be incredibly powerful, if they were able to survive childbirth.

The soul-bonded theory has failed with Rhys and Tamlin's parents, has succeeded with Feysand, Nessian, and Kallias x Vivianne, but the jury is still out on Elain and Lucien.

Even though the rationale of the bond isn't necessarily important (I firmly reject all of the "Azriel's mate must be able the have his kids" theories), how the bond works is also portrayed inconsistently.

How the bond works?

Feyre and Rhys's bond seems to play more into their daemati powers, and is easily masked by their bargain. We don't know if or how Vivianne and Kallias, and Cassian and Nesta can communicate through their bond, since there are such few scenes with them together (post-bond acceptance).

It's also unclear what "snapping" and "rejection" mean in the context of the bond.

Cassian and Rhys fear the bond being "rejected" after their bonds are "locked into place permanently" and "became unbreakable". Rhys seems to imply that "rejection" doesn't actually alter the bond, it stays in place as a tether, and the males often go insane from the rejection. This seems to to imply that "rejection" is more of a concept of practice, a "breaking up" of the couple, rather than a breaking of the mental and soul connection that the bond creates.

Prior to ACOSF, I believed the mutual acceptance of the bond was the "snapping," because in ACOWAR, Rhys says that it's hard to detect whether Nesta and Cassian are mates until after the bond "snaps," but it's clear from ACOSF, that Cassian was aware of the bond well before this moment. However, in ACOSF, we see that Elain and Lucien's bond is something that Azriel can detect, even though their bond hasn't been accepted.

I've separated bond-related evidence into The Male Realization, the Female Realization, and Bond Acceptance, because those are the scenes that are most recognizable. [All of this is based on the idea that the male has the earlier realization of the bond and the more powerful instincts, because we haven't seen the process of recognizing and accepting the bond for the same-sex couples in SJMs works (Emrys and Malakai in TOG and Thesan and his suspected Peregryn mate mentioned in ACOWAR). I'd assume for these couples, one person had the realization before the other, but the mating instincts are all the same, but again, SJM's work is inconsistent when it refers to the gendered nature of bonds.]

The Male Realization

We've never seen a male's perspective when they recognize the mating bond for what it is, but Feyre observes the realization for both Rhysand and Lucien.

Even though Rhys had long suspected the bond, going as far as trying to kill Amarantha because of it, he literally stumbles in shock when the bond snaps for him, and his first words to Mor upon returning to the townhouse are “she’s my mate.” Rhys clearly feels protective of Feyre since he first met her. He describes the moment of realization, saying "I think transforming you into Fae made the bond lock into place permanently. I’d known it existed, but it hit me then—hit me so strong that I panicked." This "locking into place" seems to be a reference to the bond not being as strong, or being tenuous when Feyre was human, and then the bond gaining strength when she became fae, since Rhys still fears Feyre rejecting the bond in ACOMAF.

We see Lucien whisper it at the worst possible time in Hybern, when Elain comes out of the Cauldron. He is able to break free of Hybern's holds and defend Elain throughout the Hybern scene. We also see him struggle to control his instincts when around Elain, which shows us his realization and manifestation of instincts.Lucien’s perspective also shows us that the bond literally speaks. "Touch her. Smell her. Taste her. The instincts were a running river -" "But even as shame washed through him, the words, the sense chanted, Mine. You are mine, and I am yours. Mate." (ACOWAR) There are also two references to him snarling at males in Elain's presence, which is the manifestation of the territorial/protective instinct.

Meanwhile, the other two accepted bonds involve males who ignored the bond, Kallias (to keep Vivianne safe when he was UTM) and Cassian (likely to have a fighting chance with Nesta). (It is also suspected that Thesan ignored the potential bond with his lover while he was UTM). We know basically nothing about Kallias and Thesan, but we are given some more information from Cassian's perspective.

We see Cassian's experience with the bond is different than Rhys and Lucien. He describes the bond as, "what [he] guessed from the moment [they] met, what [he] knew from the first time he kissed [Nesta], what became unbreakable between [them] on Solstice night." He, like Rhys, "guessed it well before the Cauldron had turned her." It's possible that the bond may have been less strong when she was human, and then gained strength and "locked into place permanently" when Nesta came out of the Cauldron, like it did with Rhys and Feyre (and ostensibly, Elain and Lucien), but there is no textual reference to that being the case.

What we know is that Cassian is both instinctively and consciously protective of Nesta from the moment she walks into the room in Hybern. The first time Cassian kisses Nesta is either when he visits her in Wings and Ember and he kisses her neck, or when he is about to die during the war, after he has literally laid down his life defending Nesta. But when this happens, we see no "shock" of realization, like we did with the other two pairings. We just know that Cassian has this realization, prior to ACOSF and ACOFAS, because Cassian's perspective shows him ignoring the bond, “Some small, quiet part of his brain whispered otherwise. He ignored it. Had ignored it for a long time now.” (ACOSF). Even after "what became unbreakable between [them] on Solstice night," Cassian says, "the only thing that frightened him was that she might reject it. Hate him for it. Chafe against it."

So I think it's possible that if Azriel does have a mating bond, he hasn't had the realization yet, but may have started to see the signs with either of his love interests. If he does have a bond, it seems that it would have "spoken" to him, making him realize it, unless there's some magical or psychological reason he misses it completely.

The Female Realization

In the ACOTAR universe, it seems that the female doesn't usually "realize" the bond is there on her own, or at least Vivianne, Nesta, Feyre, and Elain haven't. (Aelin did in TOG, but we are ignoring that here for aforementioned reasons).

Feyre has no clue about the bond until the Suriel tells her. That is not to say that Feyre doesn't feel a tug toward Rhys, she just doesn't recognize that tug as the mating bond, and she's surprised that she is an apparent equal to the most powerful high lord in history.

Nesta seems to have guessed the bond is there, but is repressing that, because she fears what it will mean for her and Cassian. "At [Cassian's] utter silence, she knew what he'd say. Halted again, bracing for it" and when Cassian finally says it, "She let the truth, voiced at last, wash over her." However, Nesta's delayed realization doesn't stop the "golden thread" moment from occurring, which I am interpreting as the acceptance of the bond.

We haven't seen Elain's perspective yet, but we do see that Elain knows Lucien is her mate, and she feels him "tug" on the bond during ACOWAR. Elain also steps toward Lucien when he leaves to find Vassa. We have no clue what any of this means, but we do know that Elain knows the bond is present with Lucien, and she hasn't reacted to him in any way because of it.

It may be possible the Gwyn or Elain are able to detect a bond with Azriel prior to him recognizing (like Aelin in TOG), if there is some foul play, or some other psychological reason for Azriel to have missed the recognition and manifestation of instincts. But more likely than not, if Azriel does have a bond, it hasn't manifested or "snapped" yet, or at least, we didn't see that manifestation in the bonus chapter.

The Bond Acceptance

We know the males feel the bond before the females do, but it seemed the "golden thread" moment we see with Feysand and Nessian is the bond being accepted.

The offering of food seems to be the official ritual for acceptance, rather than a requirement or a trigger, since Nesta doesn't offer Cassian food until after ACOSF. Rather, it seems the bond acceptance is triggered by sex and a recognition of feelings. For Feyre, and Vivianne, the bond snaps the first time they have sex with their mates, but after feelings are clearly established, and for Nesta it manifests after the both admit to having feelings for one another on Solstice night.

Feyre and Nesta say the , "You're mine. I'm yours," refrain in these moments, which makes me think this is the bond's instincts manifesting for the females (although we see both sisters be jealous/ protective when other females are around their mates prior to the bond acceptance). This acceptance seems to be what strengthens the territorial instincts (Rhysand fighting Cassian in tensing around Azriel in ACOMAF) and what initiates the frenzy, which Cassian describes as, "I woke up the next morning and all I wanted to do was fuck [Nesta] for the a week straight. And I knew what that meant, what had happened, even though [Nesta] didn't".

So what does it mean for the bond to "snap"?

That's still really unclear! If the bond snapping means detection, it would be helpful to know when others detected Feysand and Nessian's bonds. We never see that happen, Amren "sniffs" Feyre, but she knows about the Bond prior to that moment, because she is the one who advises Rhys on using the bond as a way to free Feyre from Tamlin. No one reveals to Feyre or Nesta that a mating bond exists, but it is also possible that Nesta's glamour on Solstice was meant to hide more than just Cassian's scent on Nesta, and that Feyre and Rhys's mixed scents when Rhys is shot in ACOMAF is a result of the mating bond, not just the fact that the couples were sexually intimate, and physically close enough for their scents to transfer.

Meanwhile, Feyre and Tamlin (and Thesan and his lover) have sex and admit to having feelings for eachother, but are described as "waiting for the bond to snap". This would imply that the bond often "snaps" later, for established couples. Similarly, when Rhys and Feyre are discussing Mor and Azriel, Feyre asks, “Wouldn’t the mating bond have snapped into place for them if it exists?” Rhys responds: "I think that is a question Azriel has been asking himself every day since he met Mor.” With Moriel, we have neither recognition of feelings or sex, but Rhysand and Feyre seem to think the bond would "snap" regardless of Azriel's lack of love confession, and their lack of physical relationship.

So all of this leaves us with even more questions than we started with!

When does a mating bond "snap" and is this a different moment form when the bond is "accepted" or "realized?"

Has Elain and Lucien's bond "snapped?" And if so, what triggers "snapping?"

If it hasn't snapped, why can Azriel smell their bond? And why weren't Nesta or Feyre able to smell their own unaccepted bonds before they realized what was happening?

If Azriel is Elain's true mate or is Gwyn's mate, why hasn't he realized it yet? Would he be able to miss the bond completely absent foul play?

Is physical proximity what triggers the scent? or mental connection? or something else entirely?

Anyway, SJM hasn't given us any meaningful answers on these concepts, but there do seem to be some trends. It's Sarah's world, we're just reading it, but I really hope she clears up these concepts when she writes her next set of mates.

[cobaltusami]

Tropical Vacation pt 8

Well, this isn't the fic I was planning to release next, but oh well-- I was feeling It.

Hey hi hello dolls! It's been a long ass time since I've updated this series, and unfortunately there aren't many tickles in this part, but there Is a ton of fluff! either the next part or the part after will be chock full of tickles! (Or both)

I hope It's alright!

Characters In this part: All of DR1 girls excluding Junko and Mukuro, All of the DR2 girls. Lee!Chihiro

Word count: 3429

All previous parts, as well as my other fics, can be found here!: Masterlist

Hina kicked at the sand absentmindedly as she gazed longingly out at the water. “Man, I really missed seeing the ocean but…” She crossed her arms and made a face. “What good Is it If I can’t swim in it!? I’m like a fish, If I don’t swim In water I’ll die!!”

Sakura smiled amusedly at her best friend. She can be so dramatic sometimes… “Hina, they said It was safe to swim In…”

“Yeah but Monokuma didn’t give me any of my swimsuits…” She mumbled dejectedly, kicking a rock into the water.

Yeah, they didn’t exactly get the chance to pack their stuff or even ask Monokuma for specific things from their rooms. Aside from the morning announcements he hasn’t even shown up-- not that anyone besides Byakuya was complaining.

“Ugh!! That’s It!” Hina ripped off her red jacket and tossed it to Sakura. “Hold my jacket, I’m going In!”

The Martial artist fumbled the piece of clothing, caught off guard by the swimmers sudden outburst. She quickly grabbed the brunette’s arm to stop her. “W-Wait! Instead of doing that… Why don’t we just go find the store and see If it carries swimsuits?” She suggested.

As usual Sakura was the voice of reason amongst the chaotic gays.

Hina paused, thinking it over. “Okay… That sounds good In theory, But what if they don’t carry them?”

“Then I’m sure they’ll carry donuts… we’ll get some to cheer you up then ask Usami if she knows where the swimsuits are.”

Aoi giggled as she took her jacket back from the tall girl and tied it around her waist. “I like the way you think!” She grinned. “Let’s go!”

“Alright, Let’s just ask Nekomaru where the store Is.”

They both looked to Neko, who had stuck around to keep an eye on Mondo.

“No need! I can show you where it is if you want.” Mahiru volunteered, suddenly behind the two.

Hina squeaked as they both quickly turned to face the Photographer.

“Sorry! I didn’t mean to scare you both.” The red head apologized with a sympathetic smile.

“Geez Mahiru!” Hina giggled, placing her hand over her still racing heart. “You got me good!”

“Are you sure? We don’t want to trouble you.”

Mahiru nodded with a smile. “I’m sure. Actually, I was coming to find you two. Apparently Usami has something to tell us girls...”

The two tensed. It’s not a motive, Is it?

“What do you think It is?” Hina asked as she started walking with Sakura and Mahiru.

“I’m honestly not sure. Normally she gathers all of us, not just the girls.” Mahiru responded.

As they crossed over the bridge to the second island, the girls of both classes came into view. Even Toko, surprisingly.

“Hey Toko!” Hina waved her hand at the writer. “Glad to see you out of your room!” she smiled as she turned to face her.

“W-Where Ha-Have you two b-b-been?!”

“We were checking out the beach.” Aoi answered. “Sorry, did we worry you?”

“D-Don’t b-be ridiculous! Why w-w-would I worry a-about you m-m-meatheads?!” she blushed.

Hina smiled and wrapped her arms around the awkward girl’s shoulders in a hug. “Aww, You WERE worried about us!”

“S-Shut up!” Toko blushed even more, batting the brunette away.

Soon enough, Usami appeared out of nowhere. Much like they were used to Monokuma doing. “Love love! Hello everyone!” She greeted the group cheerfully. “I hope you are all getting along okay!”

“We’re doing fine, Usami.” Chiaki smiled, patting Chihiro on the shoulder. She had brought them along and wanted to include them In on whatever Usami had planned.

“I’m glad to hear that.” Usami replied. “As some of you may know, I no longer have my magic stick…”

“Magic stick?” Sakura repeated quietly, confused.

“It’s a long story.” Mahiru whispered back.

“But It appears that Monokuma must have one of his own. Because there’s some new buildings on this island!” Usami explained, surprised. “One of such buildings, Is a women’s clothing boutique. Which is why I asked you all here.”

Sonia’s face brightened. “Really?? Wow! That Is wonderful!”

“I thought I should tell you all first before I told the boys.” Usami giggled. “I thought It might be a nice chance to bond with the other class’s girls.”

“And enby.” Chiaki and Mahiru both said at the same time. Chihiro smiled at the two girls In response.

“Right! I’m sorry, I’ll remember that for next time!” Usami apologized. “Anyway! There’s also a spa on the Island! So enjoy yourselves!”

She disappeared from sight, leaving the group to talk amongst themselves.

“This has to be a trick of some kind.” Kyoko said thoughtfully. “A motive, Maybe?”

“Yeah, I am not trusting It either.” Peko agreed.

“It’s gotta be a motive, It’s been too peaceful!” Hina chimed in.

“What If Monokuma put ‘Saw’ movie level traps in the clothing?” Ibuki theorized. “And the moment we put on the clothes-- SQUISH! BLEH! Off with our heads!”

Mahiru cringed at the gory sounds Ibuki tried to make, sighing softly. “I doubt he would have time to do that. But It’s definitely suspicious…”

“And why only things for girls?” Akane thought aloud. “It seems like a trap.”

“I think we should check It out regardless.” Celeste smiled. “I think a spa trip sounds lovely, perhaps even worth the risk.”

“I GOT IT!” Hina yelled in realization, all attention now on her. “WHAT IF MONOKUMA PUT SHARKS IN THE SPA?!”

“This again…? H-Hina I doubt there Is enough water for sharks in the spa.” Sakura sighed. She loved this girl, but sometimes she could be a bit… out there.

“She might actually be onto something.” Kyoko surprisingly agreed with her wild theory after a moment of thinking.

“H-H-How wo-would that e-even be possible?” Toko stammered in disbelief.

“Maybe not specifically sharks, but that would be the least suspecting place to put something dangerous.” The detective calmly theorized. “It may be too dangerous to check out without more muscle power.”

“Why do we need more muscle power? Sakura, Peko an’ I can handle it!” Akane grinned.

“No offense to you three, but there is strength in numbers.” Kyoko responded, to which Sakura and Peko nodded in agreement. “But there are less places to hide dangerous traps In a boutique, So I think we should be okay to check that out.”

“And then we get the boys to go with us to the spa?” Peko asked for clarification.

“Yes. I think that would be wise.”

So with the group in agreement (except for Toko, who immediately went back to her room), the girls and enby headed to the boutique to investigate.

After some time looking around for clues or traps, they were shocked to find it was literally just a normal clothing store… or so It seemed.

“That’s strange.” Kyoko said, surprised as she inspected a piece of clothing.

“What? Did you find something?” Chiaki asked, yawning as she approached the detective.

“It’s… just clothes.”

“You mean, These are actually safe?” Sayaka asked curiously, poking her head around the corner to look at the two girls.

“It appears so… I’d still check before you try anything on but--”

She was already back around the corner with Ibuki. “Oh my gosh, Ibuki! With some leggings this would look so cute on you!”

Sonia giggled. “I agree!”

Ibuki looked at the frilly mini dress held up against her body in pure disgust. “Eugh! Ibuki doesn’t do this style anymore, It makes Ibuki feel restricted.”

“Okay, maybe not this dress then…” Sayaka put it back and looked around for another one. “We should match for our concert though.”

While the three looked through the costume dresses, Chihiro was on the other side of the store looking at all the cute casual dresses. They felt a little self conscious looking at them.

“Hi, Chihiro.” Mahiru greeted, approaching the small programmer with her girlfriend in tow. “Are you alright?”

Chihiro jumped in surprise, immediately letting go of the dress they were looking at. “O-Oh! Hi Mahiru… Hiyoko.” They greeted the two girls shyly.

“Sorry, didn’t mean to scare you!” Mahiru apologized with a small smile. “I was just coming over to look for a new sun dress.”

Chihiro nodded, absentmindedly going back to looking at the dress they found as Mahiru began shuffling the articles of clothing on the rack.

The red head stole a few glances over at Chihiro, noticing their hesitancy. “Are you okay?”

Hiyoko tilted her head curiously as she too looked up from the dresses.

“Y-Yeah, I’m fine! S-Sorry… am I distracting you?”

The two ultimates exchanged glances before looking back at the small enby. “Of course not… I’m just concerned about you.”

“O-Oh… there’s no reason to be concerned, I’m okay… really.” Chihiro put on the best smile they could, but Mahiru, who constantly photographed smiling people, immediately knew it was forced.

Hiyoko’s eyes scanned the clothing rack in front of Chihiro until she noticed a disturbed article of clothing, she walked over and plucked it from the rack. “This Is a cute dress.” She commented, drawing both Mahiru and Chihiro’s attention.

Hiyoko looked at the Programmer and smiled. “You should try It on.”

Mahiru had to do a double take, had someone replaced her fiery imp of a girlfriend with someone sweet???

Chihiro blushed brightly. “Um… I-I could never pull that off…”

“Sure you could.” Mahiru smiled, following Hiyoko’s lead.

“I-I don’t know…”

“Chihiro!” Sonia bounced over brightly. “You would look adorable in that!”

“Maybe If we found a sweater to go with it you’d feel better.” Chiaki smiled.

“Ooh! And some accessories!” Sayaka joined in.

Chihiro had a bad feeling about this…

“R-Really girls, I-Its okay! I was heading over to look at skirts anyways!” They tried backing away, but the girls weren’t letting them off the hook that easily.

Meanwhile, Hina found the swimsuits much to her excitement. They were pretty cute too! Some of them were plain, others had skirts to them, pretty patterns, bikinis, one pieces… you name it, they had it.

Hina picked up a red tropical flower patterned bikini with a skirt. “Check this out Sakura, It’s so cute! And It’s my size!” she squealed happily.

The martial artist stopped what she was doing and looked over at her best friend with an amused smile. “It looks nice.”

After another moment of searching she produced a similar bikini and showed It to Sakura again.

“That kind of looks like the last one.”

“Mhm! Except It’s white with red and pink flowers! What do you think?”

“It’s… pretty?”

“Good, Because It’s your size.” Hina grinned impishly.

Sakura paused. “Hina… I don’t do bikinis.”

“Why not?”

Sakura immediately got flashbacks. She recalled when she had first started gaining muscle and went to the beach with her friends, she had gotten stared at and made fun of. She was made so uncomfortable that she just went home.

“...Reasons.”

Hina pouted. She knew that was code for something serious. “Fine, I don’t want you to be uncomfortable… I’ll keep looking.”

“Thank you for respecting my--”

They were interrupted by Chihiro shrieking, they looked at each other in alarm and bolted in the direction of the sound. Upon rounding the corner they found Chihiro wrapped up in Sayaka’s arms while Chiaki and Mahiru tickled them.

Sakura sighed in relief upon seeing it was just something harmless.

Hina grinned. “You good Chihiro?” She couldn’t help but tease them.

“Hehehehelp mehehe!” They squealed as Chiaki squeezed their sides.

“Why are you all ganging up on Chihiro?” Sakura asked, feeling some pity for the smol programming bean.

“Why not?” Hina retorted. “Chihiro’s too cute not to tickle!”

“Hinahaha you’re not hehehelping!” They blushed even more.

“Oh sorry~ I’ll help you now.” Hina smiled innocently, approaching the trapped enby. The swimmer fluttered her fingers against their belly, drawing even more squeals of laughter. “There, do you feel helped now?” she giggled.

“Hahahahahaha! That’s nohohohot whahahat I meheheheant!” They whined.

“Chihiro started crying because they did not feel they could pull off this dress.” Sonia explained gently, holding the dress up. “So the others are trying to cheer them up.”

Sakura frowned. She understood where Chihiro was coming from, but literally Chihiro would look so fucking cute in that dress. It was a white ruffle sundress with a light yellow ribbon sash.

It was bewildering that Chihiro didn��t think they could pull it off…

Sakura scanned around until her eyes fell on a light yellow sweater with short sleeves, she picked it up and walked back over to the giggling programmer.

The girls stopped tickling and looked at the piece of clothing in the tall girl's hands. Chihiro slid to the floor in a heap of lingering giggles and soft gasps.

The white haired girl sat down next to them. “Chihiro, I understand how you feel. You feel like everyone Is going to be staring at you and judging you.”

They nodded meekly, staring at the floor.

“And maybe people have done that to you before…” She paused as Chihiro nodded again. “But you’re among your friends here, and we aren’t judging you In the slightest.”

“Yeah, Sakura’s right.” Chiaki agreed, sitting down too. The other girls followed suit. “We would never judge you.”

“We all have things we are self conscious about, Chihiro.” Sonia smiled kindly at the enby. “I am self conscious about my skin.”

“R-Really…? But you’re so pretty…” Chihiro looked at her.

“Thank you, but so are you.” Sonia pinched Chihiro’s cheek gently. “I burn in the sunlight, The kids I went to school with used to call me ‘Princess lobster’. So I try to avoid exposing myself to the sun.”

Chihiro blushed at the compliment and looked back down.

“I’m super self conscious about my weight.” Hina spoke up next. “I’m always weighing myself. I used to get teased for how many sweets I eat, my friends told me I was going to end up alone because no one would be able to look at me.”

“Hina, You’re gorgeous. You don’t have to worry about your weight!” Chihiro frowned.

“I used to get made fun of because I had braces when I was younger.” Sayaka shared. “They said I’d never be a singer because the metal in my braces would mess with the recording equipment.”

“Do I even need to say what I’m self conscious about?” Hiyoko sulked, folding her arms across her chest. “I’m short.”

Mahiru put her hand on Hiyoko’s shoulder. “You’ll hit a growth spurt someday.” She teased. “People called me a boy growing up.”

“I-I-I’ve al-always been s-s-s-super c-c-clumsy. People h-h-have always ma-made fun o-of me for It.” Mikan said softly.

“Of course they have, You’re a walking pile of pig barf!” Hiyoko snapped.

“Aah! I’m sorry!” Mikan cried.

Mahiru shoved her hand over Hiyoko’s mouth and pulled her into her lap to keep her contained. She sighed. Welp, so much for her being kind…

“People I went to school with used to accuse me of stuffing my bra, and constantly harassed me because of my home life.” Akane said quietly.

“I was feared, I was told I had monster eyes. Most kids avoided me.” Peko chimed In.

Kyoko looked down at her gloved hands then back up at Chihiro. “I think my insecurity should be obvious…”

“I got made fun of for loving video games. And I’ve got some pudge.” Chiaki poked her stomach.

After a moment of silence the girls looked at Sakura, who gave a hesitant sigh. “Do I need to say It?”

“Yes.” All except for Chihiro said in unison.

Sakura sighed again. “I get called ogre. People call me a freak or abomination. When I started bulking up, people told me that I looked better before and I lost a lot of friends because they were embarrassed to be seen with me.”

“Remind me to smack Hiro and Hifumi when I see them next.” Hina said quietly.

“Hiro doesn’t mean any harm by It.” she waved her off.

Hearing their friends being open about their insecurities made them feel a little better about opening up.

“Um…” Chihiro kept staring at the floor. “Kids I went to school with knew me when I Identified as a boy… and the first day I went to school in a dress, I got beat up and made fun of. Since then, I’ve been afraid to wear dresses… N-Not that skirts are much different… I’m just kind of traumatized by them.”

“Chihiro, You are adorable and beautiful.” Hina smiled warmly.

“Trust me, If anyone comes near you to beat you up or make fun of you… they’ll have a lot of people to get through first.” Chiaki added.

“You are one of a kind, don’t let people like that ruin something for you.” Sakura said gently.

Hina side eyed her, receiving a quiet; ‘shut up’ In response.

Chihiro sniffled, wiping their eyes. “Th-Thanks guys…”

“If you don’t want to try on the dress, We respect your comfort zone. You don’t have to if you don’t want to.” Mahiru put a hand on their shoulder reassuringly.

They looked at the dress In Sonia’s lap, then back up at the girls. “No… I… I want to try It on.”

“Are you sure?” Sonia asked.

They nodded, more sure this time. “You’re right. I need to learn not to take things to heart so much. Everyone has something they don’t like about themselves, even the people who picked on you.”

“That’s exactly right.” Kyoko nodded with a faint smile.

Chihiro took the dress from Sonia and stood up, they were about to head to the dressing room but they were stopped by Sakura, who handed them the matching sweater she found for the dress.

The enby gave her a smile before taking the article of clothing and retreating to the closed room with a new pep in their step.

A few minutes passed by, and something had occurred to Mahiru. “Wait a minute, Ibuki? You never said what you were made fun of for.”

Ibuki looked up at the red head, previously she had been drawing shapes on the floor with her finger waiting for Chihiro to come out. “Oh, Ibuki didn’t?”

“No, You didn’t.” Chiaki confirmed, eyeing the musician.

“Welllll…” Ibuki looked away sheepishly.

“Were you not bullied?” Sonia asked.

“N-No. Ibuki was bullied.” She sighed. “Ibuki was made fun of for the way she talks In the third person. Also the way she dressed.”

“I think It’s… endearing.” Sayaka smiled.

“Ibuki didn’t mention It because Ibuki didn’t want to be reassured or complimented.” She smiled shyly, tapping her index fingers together. “Ibuki doesn’t know how to take compliments…”

“I understand that.” Sakura responded.

Hina, again, side eyed her best friend. “I will hype you up and there’s nothing you can do to stop me.”

“Nothing huh?” She didn’t even bother looking at Hina, she blindly squeezed at the swimmer’s side, making her squeak and giggle as she twitched away.

“Come to think of it…” Kyoko hummed, glancing over at Celeste. “You didn’t say anything either.”

“That Is because there Is nothing I was made fun of for.” Celeste smiled, closing her eyes as she did.

Hmm… doubtful.

Chiaki looked at the wall clock. “Chihiro’s been In there a while… I think someone should go check on them.”

Before anyone else could volunteer, surprisingly, Hiyoko was on her feet. “I’ll do it.” with that she disappeared into the back room as well.

Mahiru blinked in surprise. “Should I go with her?”

No one got the chance to answer before Hiyoko came back out, Chihiro In tow.

The Traditional dancer stepped aside so the girls could see Chihiro, they were absolutely radiating happiness. “S-Sorry, I kind of froze up… How do I look?”

“Ohmigosh, Chi you look so cute!!” Hina squealed.

“That dress looks like It was made for you, You look so pretty!” Sonia beamed, stars practically in her eyes.

The Programmer giggled and twirled around in the dress happily.

The other girls quickly got over their surprise and flooded Chihiro with compliments. (even Kyoko and Celeste complimented them, shockingly.)

The rest of the boutique visit hit different for the group, they felt a lot lighter and closer than before.

Sayaka and Ibuki had decided to just coordinate colors, that way they could both wear something they wanted to wear.

Hina and Sakura found a few swimsuits they liked.

Chihiro got a bunch of different dresses and had a mini fashion show with Hiyoko, Mahiru, and Chiaki.

Right then.

Time to go find the boys and check out the spa...

[underoosweb]

5 more minutes ch.2

No warnings: Bold italics are thoughts/ Italics are dreams

BuckyxOC!

4.6k words

                                             3 months later

It had been 3 months since Serenity arrived in the Marvel Universe and she was getting more and more frustrated by the minute. 3 damn months of the same thing. She and Steve travel all over Europe and him performing the same act over and over again. She couldn’t help but roll her eyes as Steve got ready once more to punch “Hitler” in the face. She stared out into the crowd, soldiers nothing but soldiers out in the crowd. This wasn’t exactly Steve’s demographic. She felt his warmth against her back, she sighed.

“Are you ready to do this again?”

“Honestly… no.”

“Captain, it's your cue.” She turned and placed her hand on his shoulder and gave him a reassuring smile

“Good luck.” He sighed, giving her back the same smile

“Thanks.” 

 “How many of you are ready to help me sock old Adolf on the jaw?” Silence. Serenity winced.

 “Okay. Uh… I need a volunteer.” Steve tried to hide his embarrassment.

“I already volunteered! How do you think I got here?” The crowd of soldiers laughs

 “Bring back the girls!”  There’s a cheer from the soldiers. Serenity glared

“I think they only know the one song. But um…let me…I’ll…I’ll see what I can do.” She scoffed

“You do that, sweetheart.”

“Nice boots, Tinker Bell!” The crowd of soldiers laughs

“Come on, guys. We’re all on the same team here.” 

“Hey, Captain! Sign this!” A different soldier stands, turns and pulls his pants down and the crowd starts to throw things at Steve. Serenity had enough, rolling her eyes. She walked up the stage and the men quieted down. They heard rumors of the girl’s temper and how she can beat any of them to put them in the hospital. She smirked as the men sucked their breaths in.

“Come on, Steve let’s go.”

“Ladies.” She motioned for the girls to come back onto the stage. The women run on stage and the crowd cheers.

“Don’t worry, pal. They’ll warm up to you. Don’t worry.” The senator’s aide patted Steve’s back. Serenity had no idea why she was even here if the aide was following them around. He was managing both of them. Steve’s lips formed into a tight line. 

“Go get changed, Steve.” He looked over at Serenity and nodded. 10 minutes later the crowd dispersed and so did the girls. Hopping onto the stage, she plopped in the middle of the stage. Hearing the rain hit the roof of the stage, she smiled and closed her eyes. 

“Yeah. Uh… I had to improvise a little bit. Crowds I’m used to are usually more uh… twelve.”  Serenity’s brows furrowed when she heard Steve’s hushed voice 

“I understand you’re "America’s New Hope"?” 

Peggy?

“Bond sales take a ten percent bump in every state I visit,” Steve responded, Serenity rubbed her eyes but laid still not wanting to disturb their conversation

“Is that Senator Brandt I hear?” Peggy asked

 “At least he’s got me doin’ this. Phillips would have had to be stuck in the lab.”

 “And these are your only two options? A lab rat or a dancing monkey? You were meant for more than this, you know?”

“What?” Peggy asks after she sees him hesitate 

“You know for the longest time I dreamed about coming overseas and being on the front lines. Serving my country. I finally get everything I wanted, and I’m wearing tights. They look like they’ve been through hell.”

“These men more than most. Schmidt sent out a force to Azzano. Two hundred men went up against him and less than fifty returned. Your audience contained what was left of the one-oh-seventh. The rest were killed or captured.” Serenity shot up when she heard Peggy say Bucky’s regiment. 

 “The one-oh-seventh?” Steve asked

“Bucky.”  Steve and Peggy looked over at her.

“What?” Peggy asked, Serenity stood up and jumped off the stage.

“Come on!” The three of them ran towards the colonel’s tent

“Colonel Phillips.” 

“Well, if it isn’t the Star-Spangled Man With A Plan and his little assistant. And what is your plan today?”

“I need the casualty list from Azzano.”

“You don’t get to give me orders, son.”

“Colonel, we just need one name.” Serenity butted in

“I just need one name. Sergeant James Barnes from the hundred and seventh.”

“You and I are gonna have a conversation later that you won’t enjoy.” The colonel said pointing to Peggy

“Please tell me if he’s alive, sir. B-A-R…”

“I can spell. I have signed more of these condolence letters today than I would care to count. But the name does sound familiar. I’m sorry.” Serenity bit the inside of her cheek. She knew he was alive and they needed to find him quickly.

“What about the others? Are you planning a rescue mission?”

“Yeah! It’s called winning the war.”

“But if you know where they are, why not at least…?”

“They’re thirty miles behind the lines. Through the most heavily fortified territory in Europe. We’d lose more men than we’d save. But I don’t expect you to understand that, because you’re a chorus girl.”

Serenity tuned out the rest of their conversation. She came out of her trance when she saw Steve storm out of the tent.

Fuck.

She follows Steve to his tent where he starts to change and pack some things 

“What do you plan to do? Walk to Austria?” She asks Steve

“If that’s what it takes.”

“Steve, you can’t just walk there. I understand you have super serum now but by the time you get there you’re going to be exhausted and that’s not going to help Bucky or anyone.” Peggy walked in

“You heard the Colonel, your friend is most likely dead.”

“You don’t know that.” Serenity sneered at Peggy. Peggy rolled her eyes

“Even so, he’s devising a strategy. If he detects…”

“By the time he’s done that, it could be too late!” Steve tells Peggy

 The three walk out to a jeep.

“You told me you thought I was meant for more than this. Did you mean that?”

“Every word.”

“Then you gotta let me go.” He gets in the jeep.

“I can do more than that.” Peggy hops into the Jeep and Serenity follows

“What are you doing?” Steve asks

“Trust me when I say this right now, don’t piss me off. I’m coming with you whether you like it or not.” Steve sat back down in his seat. Serenity smiled. Peggy drove off. The three sat in silence, Steve kept sneaking glances at Peggy. She leaned forward and whispered into his ear

“It’s been 3 months and you still haven’t told her how you feel.” She noticed his ears turning red

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Steve cleared his throat

“Whatever you say, Rogers,” Serenity sat back down

“I’m going to take a bit of a nap, will you wake me when we get there please.”

“Sure,” Peggy responded

“Ah, before that,” She leaned forward one more time this time towards Peggy

“You two would be a cute couple.” Now it was Peggy’s turn to blush. Serenity smirked

“Good night, you two. Try not to have too much fun without me.” Serenity leaned back and closed her eyes. Darkness greeted her.

She could hear his screams, it sent chills down her spine. It was blood-curdling. She covered her ears, tears pricked her eyes. Walking down the dark hall, she saw him lying there on a cold metallic table. She felt hot tears start to stream down her cheeks. He looked drained. No. Broken. He couldn’t break now, Steve. Steve will come for him. Her eyes narrowed as two men in black came on each side of Bucky. They looked over to the Doctor, who nodded. The men covered her view and his screams filled the room. The scene in front of her started to fade, she screamed and cried for him for someone to help him.

“Serenity!” She gasped. Looking around she met Steve’s concerned eyes. Peggy had the same look on her face. Serenity’s hands went straight to her face, the tears would not stop.

“You had a nightmare.” the English accent sounded like velvet

“You yelled out his name.” Serenity met his eyes

“Bucks.”

“What was the nightmare about?” Peggy asked

“I-I… They were…” She swallowed the choked sob forming in her throat

“They were torturing him. He was laying there on a table… just screaming.”

“Who was torturing him?” Peggy asked

“I don’t know. Th-there were two men and a doctor.” She knew exactly who the doctor was. Arnim Zola. 

“Hello, love.” Her eyes flickered towards Howard. His face changed once he saw her tear-stained cheeks and puffy red eyes. She quickly wiped her face.

“Howard,” Peggy responded

“I hope you were talking to Peggy, Stark.” Serenity replied, her voice a bit hoarse

“I was actually talking to you, love.”

“I’m not your love.”  Howard rose his brow and smirked

“I brought a leash this time.” Steve choked 

“You can use it on Steve, he’s bound to get into trouble.” Steve blushed and Howard laughed.

“Come on,” He cocked his head to the side

Fuck.

“This should be fun.”

She hated heights.

She was clutching Steve’s hand for dear life. She looked over at Peggy, she apologized with her eyes. Peggy understood, the poor girl looked petrified. 

“The HYDRA camp is in Krausberg, tucked between these two mountain ranges. It’s a factory of some kind.” Peggy told Steve

“We should be able to drop you right on the doorstep.” Howard slightly yelled from the pilot’s seat

“Just get me as close as you can. You know, you two are gonna be in a lot of trouble at the lab.”

“And you won’t?” Peggy asked

“Where I’m goin’, if anybody yells at me I can just shoot ‘em.”

“They will undoubtedly shoot back.”

“Well, let’s hope it’s good for somethin’.” He knocks at his shield.

“The fact that the shield is holding up amazes me.” Serenity managed to choke out

“Agent Carter, if we’re not in too much of a hurry I thought we could stop off in Lucerne for a late-night fondue. Would you like to join us, Serenity?”

Peggy looks awkwardly at Steve who’s getting ready to parachute. Serenity simply couldn’t respond

Steve grabbed Serenity’s hand, her panicked eyes met his face.

“You’ll be okay,”

“You can come up here and hold my hand,”

“Are you insane? You want me to walk up there and look out that front window!”

“You can hold my hand and face your back towards the window.”

“You are insane.”

“I don’t think Agent Carter will hold your hand.” Serenity sighed and walked towards the front, her back facing the window and holding onto Stark’s pant leg.

“Don’t want my hand?”

“You need them to steer the plane. I would rather not die, I’ll hold your pant leg, thank you very much.”

“Stark is the best civilian pilot I’ve ever seen. He’s mad enough to brave this airspace, we’re lucky to have him.”

“So are you two…? Do you…? Fondue?” Steve stammered. Serenity snickered 

Peggy ignores Steve’s awkward and confused rambling.

“This is your transponder. Activate it when you’re ready and the signal will lead us straight to you.”

“Are you sure this thing works?” 

“It’s been tested more than you, pal,” Stark says as their plane is being attacked Steve goes towards the opened door of the plane to jump

“Get back here! We’re taking you all the way in.” Peggy yelled

“As soon as I’m free, you turn this thing around and get the hell outta here!”

“You can’t give me orders!” Serenity snorted at Peggy’s comment 

“The hell I can’t! I’m a Captain!” he looks at her and then jumps out of the plane.

“Don’t worry, he’ll be fine.”

“You say that as if you know for sure.”

That’s because she does

“Trust me.”

“Trust you?” Serenity nodded, resting her head against the bottom of the control panel. She zoned out of Howard and Peggy’s conversation and eventually fell asleep.

*************************************************************************************************************

It’s been 4 days since Steve left on his rescue mission, her and Peggy got an earful from the colonel. Serenity rested against one of the tent poles watching the colonel and Peggy argue.

“Senator Brandt, I regret to report that Captain Steven G. Rogers went missing behind enemy lines on the third. Aerial reconnaissance has proven unfruitful. As a result, I must declare Captain Rogers killed in action. Period.” The colonel said as a corporal started to type his words

“The last surveillance flight is back. No sign of activity.” Peggy said

“Go get a cup of coffee, Corporal.” The colonel sighed

“Yes, sir.” he leaves

“I can’t touch Stark. He’s rich and he’s the Army’s number one weapons contractor. You two are neither one.” He pointed back and forth between Peggy and Serenity

“With respect, sir, I don’t regret my actions. And I don’t think Captain Rogers did either.”

“I just simply do not care.”  Serenity shrugged

“What makes you think I give a damn about both your opinions. I took a chance with you, Agent Carter. And now America’s golden boy and a lot of other good men are dead, ‘cause you had a crush.”

“It wasn’t that. I had faith.”

“Well, I hope that’s a big comfort to you when they shut this division down.” Soldiers start running and talking excitedly around them.

“What the hell’s going on out there?” Serenity smiled.

“They’re back.”

They follow the crowd to the edge of the camp where Steve’s arriving with the freed prisoners.

“Look who it is!” Everyone cheers

“Some of these men need medical attention.”

“Medic, we got wounded.”

“Right over here.”

“I’d like to surrender myself for disciplinary action.”

“That won’t be necessary.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Faith, huh?”

“You’re late.”

Holding up the broken transponder “Couldn’t call my ride.”

Serenity smiled at Steve, she could feel someone staring at her. She met Bucky’s eyes. His eyes were the blue-green of the mountain lakes, hues that could tell tales of the sky and evergreen giants all the same. He stood there frozen, what was she doing here? Why wasn’t she back at his apartment? She slowly made her way to him. 

“Sergeant?” He blinked

“Doll?” 

“How many times do I have to tell you? I’m not your doll.” She laughed, her laugh sounded like music to his ears.

“I thought you didn’t like ma’am.” She looked up at him and nodded

“You’re right.”

“Doll, why are you here?”

“Well…”

“I wrote to you.” Her head snapped up

“What?”

“I wrote you letters, I thought you left or maybe you were ignoring me.” his gaze now on the floor

“Bucky…” Bucky blushed, she called him Bucky

“Every time the mail would come in, I hoped you would write back.”

Shouldn’t he have written to Connie?

“I’m sorry, I didn’t remember the way to the apartment and Steve ended up seeing me walking around. He and Peggy ended up taking me to Stark.” His eyes widened

“Luckily the senator sent me to follow Steve around and that’s how I ended up here.” Bucky met her eyes. Serenity stepped closer, Bucky’s breath hitched. They were practically chest to chest.

“I am curious though,” She met his eyes

“What did you write to me, Sergeant?”

“I wrote about everything.”

“Everything?” he nodded

“That’s very specific.” She rolled her eyes, Bucky smirked

“I’m glad you’re alright, doll,”

“Me? What about you? Are you alright?” Bucky let out a slight chuckle

“You know I was very honored to hear that you were so worried about me, but I’m fine.”

“Hear?” Bucky smirked and Serenity groaned

“Steve…” She murmured 

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” She said walking back towards the tent, Bucky smiled and ran behind her

“Really now?”

“Yup.”

“Where are you going?”

“Just want to talk to Steve.”

“Just talk?”

“Yup.”

“Then why do you have a murderous look in your eyes?”

“I do not.”

“Speaking of the devil.” She said as Steve jogged towards the two

“Hey Buck, let’s go get ready.”

“Ready for what?”

“The colonel is allowing us to go out and celebrate the rescue mission.”

“Serenity, Peggy wants to see you.”

“Why?”

“No idea.” 

“Before I head over,” Serenity grabbed Steve’s hand and dragged him away from Bucky

“Ah, you stay over there,” She said when she saw Bucky trying to follow them

“Yes, ma’am,” He rose his hands up in defeat and smirked

“I do hate when he calls me ma’am,” she said to herself, turning she placed her finger on Steve’s chest

“You told Bucky about my nightmare?” 

“No, I just told him you were very worried about him.” She narrowed her eyes

“I may or may not have told him you cried,” She groaned

“Steven Grant Rogers,” She playfully punched his chest

“He talked about you, you know” She rose her brow

“The whole way back, he was saying how he wrote letters to a dame and I asked if it was Connie and he shook his head. I think he likes you.”

“He’s just flirting,” Steve smiled and shook his head

“Captain.”

“Agent Carter,”

“I asked for her 10 minutes ago,”

“Ah, sorry. I just needed to ask him something. What’s up?”

“Come with me,”

“Oh no, am I going to be punished?” Peggy smiled

“No, everyone is getting together and I thought we should get ready together.”

“Are, are you suggesting giving me a makeover?”

“Slightly,” Serenity smiled, looping her arm through Peggy's

“This is going to be fun,”

************************************************

“Ummm, Peggy,” Serenity started to pick at the pins in her hair. Peggy smacked her hand away

“Leave them alone, you look gorgeous.” Serenity stared at her reflection through the store’s window. The emerald green dress hugged her chest and waist while the bottom slightly flared out. 

“You’re kidding me right,” She looked Peggy up and down

“If Cap doesn’t ask you out, I will.”

“If Sergeant Barnes doesn’t ask you, I will,”

“Why does everyone think he likes me?”

“Because, love, he does.”

“He can’t like me, he doesn’t even know me.”

“Captain rogers-”

“Ah, don’t say Steve doesn’t know you. He spent boot camp with you.” Peggy rolled her eyes.

“Do you think I can wear different shoes?”

“No,”

“Why? I hate wearing heels.”

“It holds the outfit together, so too bad.”

“There they are,” Serenity cocked her head to the side 

“What do you think they’re talking about?” 

“Probably complaining about the men singing,” Serenity smiled

***

“See? I told you. They’re all idiots.” Bucky smiled, placing his hand on Steve’s shoulder.

“How about you? Are you ready to follow Captain America into the jaws of death?” Steve asked, smiling back

“Hell, no. That little guy from Brooklyn who was too dumb not to run away from a fight. I’m following him. But you’re keeping the outfit, right?”

“You know what? It’s kind of growing on me.” The two of them smiled and laughed.

The singing in the bar stops as Peggy in a tight-fitting, deep-red dress walks in.

“Captain.” Peggy looks at Steve

“Agent Carter.”

“Ma’am.” Bucky smiled at Peggy

“Where’s Serenity?” Bucky asked

She turned to see Serenity still standing in the door entrance. Peggy smiled and grabbed her hand, cocking her head to the side to follow her.

Fuck, she hates social interactions

Bucky on the other hand was thanking the colonel for this, he was thanking the gods. She walked in and his breath hitched, he could feel the heat on his face. She looked absolutely stunning. 

“Howard has some equipment for you to try. Tomorrow morning?” Peggy continued her conversation, still holding Serenity’s hand. Bucky eyed their hands, Peggy smirked.

“Sounds good.”

“I see your top squad is prepping for duty.”

“You don’t like music?” Bucky asked

This is music? 

“I do, actually. I might even, when this is all over, go dancing.” Peggy smiled and looked over at Steve.

“Then what are we waiting for?” Bucky asked

“Steve.” Serenity coughed, Peggy narrowed her eyes and ignored her comment. Serenity shrugged

“The right partner. 0800, Captain.”

“Yes, ma’am. I’ll be there.”

“What about you, doll?” 

“What?” She jumped a bit and asked too quickly, Bucky chuckled

“Do you dance?”

“I-I don’t know how.”

“You don’t know how to dance?” Steve asked

“No, I wasn’t one for parties and I’ve never been asked.”

“Now that I don’t believe,” Bucky said with slight disbelief in his voice

“Why is that so hard to believe?” Serenity rose her brow

“A dame like you probably got asked to go out or dance all the time.” 

“Again, I wasn’t one for going out and I tend to ignore men. They tend to annoy me.”

“Do I annoy you, doll?”

“No, Steve does sometimes though.”

“Hey,” Serenity smiled

“You know I love you,” Bucky froze, she loves him? Peggy stood next to Bucky

“They have gotten close over the last 3 months, they bicker like siblings all the time.”

Serenity laughed at something Steve said, Bucky stared at her. She looked over at him and smiled. Her hands were placed behind her back.

“So Sergeant, are you going to teach me to dance, or are you just going to sit there?” Bucky smiled, standing and extending his hand towards her

“May I have this dance, doll?” She smiled and grasped his hand

“Just don’t get mad if I step on your toes.” She said as they moved to the middle of the floor

“Never.” He said softly, wrapping his arm around her waist. Serenity looked down at her feet as soon as Bucky started to move. He smiled, placing his finger under her chin. Her eyes met his, hers were full of worry while his were full of reassurance. 

“Keep your eyes locked on mine,”

“But if I step on-”

“You’ll be fine, trust me.” She nodded, staring into his eyes. She felt the heat rise to her cheeks. She hated eye contact, it made her nervous. She could feel her heart racing, hearing the beating pounding in her ears. Was she nervous from the eye contact or was he making her nervous, both? She froze when Bucky winced, he smiled at her and shook his head. 

“You’re doing great, doll.” He whispered

“You know Steve and Peggy are just staring, do you think he’ll ask her to dance?”

“Steve’s a bit..shy.” Serenity sighed and the song ended, she could feel the soldiers staring at them, she turned to look at them, the dream team smiled at them and rose their glasses while the others looked away from her gaze. She smiled back at the boys and laughed. Sliding out of Bucky’s grasp, he frowned as he watched her make her way towards the table of soldiers. Bucky turned, Peggy was gone and Steve smiled at him. He sat back down next to Steve.

“She had a hard time making friends.” Bucky looked at Steve

“We both did, they treated me as a joke, and her, well, they were intimidated of her.” Bucky glanced at Serenity sitting with the new group of men.

“Intimidated by her?” Steve nodded

“Peggy thought it would be good for her to get some training in and she ended up”

“Kicking their asses?” Bucky smirked and sipped his beer

“Language.” Bucky laughed, looking over at the table when he heard her laugh. 

“You really like her, Buck?”

“Huh?” Bucky turned his attention back to Steve

“You like her?”

“Yeah, don’t you?”

“You know that’s not what I mean, Buck.” Steve rolled his eyes, Bucky eyed his glass, beer almost completely gone. Serenity looked over to Steve and Bucky

“Would you like a beer?” Serenity turned her attention back to the men

“Oh, no. I don’t like beer”

“You don’t like beer?”

“Who doesn’t like beer?”

“It’s too bitter,” Serenity shrugged

“It seems that Sergeant Barnes can’t keep his eyes off you.”

“Maybe he’s just keeping his eye on Cap’s men, making sure they will be able to do their duties tomorrow.” Serenity smiled

“Maybe,” another replied

“Highly doubt it,” a voice to the right said

Serenity rolled her eyes but smiled. She shook her head and stood from the table.

“It was nice to meet and talk to you boys,”

“Nice to meet you as well,” They said, as she made her way towards Bucky and Steve.

“Peggy left?”

“Early day tomorrow,” Steve responded

“You should’ve asked her to dance,” Steve smiled against his glass and shook his head

“Chicken,” Serenity crossed her arms and pouted slightly

She sighed, “It’s getting late, I should head back.”

She started to make her way towards the door

“Wait, Doll!” She turned to see Bucky chugging the last of his beer and quickly grabbing his jacket

“What?” She asked when Bucky jogged next to her

“I’ll walk you back,” Serenity shook her head

“You should stay here. Catch up with Steve and have fun with your friends.”

“It’s fine,” She turned to look at Steve

“We can catch up later. Let him walk you.” Steve smiled

“Are you sure?” 

Steve nodded “Go,”

Serenity smiled and nodded “I’ll see you later Steve,”

He raised his glass towards her and Bucky and made his way towards his team. Serenity turned back to Bucky, he held the door open for her and they made their way down the street.

“You and Steve got close?”

“Following him all around Europe for 3 months can do that.”

“I’m glad the two of you got close,”

“Why’s that?”

“Cause Steve’s my best friend,”

Serenity faked gasped “Are you saying you wouldn’t be friends with me if I didn’t get along with Steve?” 

Bucky smirked and chuckled.

“Maybe,”

“I am offended,” She laughed

Serenity tried to run her fingers through her hair but groaned when the pins pulled on her hair, slowly she pulled out pin by pin

“I have no idea how girls can wear their hair like this, I think Peggy used at least 2 packs of pins on my hair,” She said irritated, Bucky watched her nose scrunch up in frustration. He smiled. She continued to pull pin after pin out of her hair. Bucky reached out and she froze. Serenity hated when people touched her hair, Peggy had to fight her on it. Bucky’s hand froze when he saw her glare at it, he smiled slightly and hesitantly pulled a pin out of her hair. He held it up

“You missed one,” 

“Thanks,” Her voice was shaky. She reached for the pin

“I should give these back to Peggy,”

“I don’t think she’ll mind if they went missing,” Serenity smiled, she flipped her hair in front of her face and shook her head, running her fingers through it. Flipping her hair back, she smiled brightly.

“That feels so much better.” She moaned slightly, massaging her scalp. She looked back at Bucky who had slight pink tint on his cheeks

“Are you ready to keep walking?” Bucky nodded

“Where are you staying, doll?”

“Hmm, well I’m staying with Peggy now.”

“Now? Who were you staying with before?

“By myself, Steve and the senator’s aide would stay together.” Bucky nodded

The two walked in comfortable silence, every once in a while she would hum a random melody, their hands brushed against one another. Bucky glanced over at their hands, he slowly reached over, but she turned sideways and pointed.

“We’re here,” Bucky looked over towards the little barrack. They made their way towards the door

“Thank you for walking me back, Bucky.”

“It was my pleasure, doll,” He smiled, Serenity opened the door. She turned back towards him.

“Buck,”

“Yeah?”

“Thanks for teaching me how to dance,” She kissed his cheek and walked into the barrack. Bucky stood there, face red and smiling like an idiot.

Tags:

@bluemoon-icecream​ @ginger-swag-rapunzel​

[barbasbodaciousbeard]

If You Love Someone, Let Them Go: Part 7

Summary: Since starting with SVU, Sonny hadn’t kept much terribly close to the chest. The squad knew about his family, growing up on Staten Island, the classes at Fordam. What was hidden was why he didn’t date. Sonny Carisi was also separated from his childhood sweetheart, a separation neither ever took to divorce. They had the same haunts. They’d grown up neighbors. Their paths crossed every few months, and divorce talks would turn into reminiscing would turn into a night spent together, sometimes sex sometimes just talking until the early morning. It always ended with one of them waking up alone however. How will that change when the squad finds out?

Pairings: Sonny Carisi x Original Character

1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6

May 2015

“Dominick, where’s the box with my shoes?” Victoria called, stepping over the piles in the apartment they’d consolidated into over the last month and a half. Both their leases were ending, so they decided to go ahead and overlap their leases with a new place for a month. They needed to start fresh, and neither of them wanted to do that in the solitary spaces they’d inhabited without the other. She was nervous now, however, because Olivia had extended Carisi’s invitation to celebrate Noah’s adoption to her as well. It struck her that she was the only SVU spouse, so it might just be the group that spent every day and lots of long nights together and her, someone suddenly thrust into their world. That meant she was exceptionally nervous as she got ready; meeting them on their turf felt more serious than being at Bella’s wedding. Everyone had dispersed within hours there.

“Kitchen counter. Got mixed up for the pots and pans in our room somehow,” he called, and she could tell he was brushing his teeth. She stepped over the not yet assembled shelves she’d gotten, digging each chunky heel from the cardboard box. The wedding heels had been hard on her because the brides wanted stilettos. These she could walk in all day, and she liked reaching Sonny’s shoulder. She went to the bathroom, leaning on the door frame as she watched him style his hair, the tip of his tongue between his front teeth. He caught her eye on the mirror, and his mouth shifted to a grin as he shot her a wink.

“Lookin’ hot, Mrs. Carisi.”

“Why thank you,” she grinned, striking a playful pose. “You look pretty hot yourself.”

“You just like these shirts on me.”

“And your ass in those khakis.” 

She felt triumphant as his cheeks turned pink, grabbing her purse and fixing her lipstick. Soon enough, they were knocking on Olivia’s door, and Sonny pressed a kiss by her ear. 

“You’ll be fine,” he whispered, straightening up as Olivia opened the door.

“Carisi, Victoria, come on in,” she smiled, and Victoria couldn’t help but grin at the sight of the little boy on her hip, putting the gift bag on the counter. 

“It’s so great to see you again. We brought a present for you two. Wine for mama and a toy for Noah.”

“You didn’t have to do that.”

“It’s a celebration,” she smiled, and Sonny watched fondly as Victoria made faces at Noah, who squealed with delight. 

“Carisi,” Barba nodded, scotch in hand as the detective opened a beer. “Things seem to be good?”

“Yeah. We’re unpacking the new place.”

“I’m sure it’s a delight.”

“Tor’s back home. Of course it is.”

“Can I give you one piece of advice, if you still want to be an attorney?”

“If you’re going to say ‘don’t’ again-”

“I’m feeling sentimental on this, the celebration of Noah’s adoption.”

“Go on then.”

“You’ve expressed an interest in the DA’s office. Prosecution. It’s all the pain from SVU, plus you have to be the bad guy and demand proof. You’ve hated my guts more than a few times, no?”

“Yeah?”

“Don’t fuck up again. You’ll need that anchor. I have had two opportunities. One ended up with the friend. The other I drove away trying to keep secrets and seem tough.”

“Liv rat me out?”

“On accident at the wedding. But only because she knew I’d understand. Being able to talk to her will be what keeps you sane during some of those trials.”

“You know, cousin Tony is a real good listener and seemed real into you.”

“He is quite the listener and is quite into me. Now, shut up before you ruin my good mood.”

“There’s the Barba I’m used to.” A roll of the attorney’s eyes told him whatever sentimentality he was going to be at the receiving end of was over, and Sonny felt confident that when he asked to shadow him later, Barba wouldn’t be as put out as he pretended. When he looked back to Olivia, Victoria was chatting happily with a glass of wine in hand. He was excited he still got to make an introduction between Fin and Victoria. It was nice to be able to say This is my wife, Victoria without having to eventually explain they didn’t live together. When he heard a knock, he moved to her side, anticipating his entrance. Once he’d greeted Olivia and Noah, Sonny was pleased with the look on his face. As the detective who’d been there the longest, Sonny found himself caring what Fin thought, and Fin seemed to be forming his opinion.

“Fin! I want ya t’meet my wife, Victoria,” he said happily, arm slung over her shoulder. She extended a hand, which Fin shook gladly.

“It’s nice to meet you! I’ve heard so much!”

“Nice to meet you too. Your husband ain’t shut up about you in weeks. Once he started-”

“He’s pretty sappy?”

“So you been putting up with him a decade?”

“I mean technically my whole life. We grew up next door to each other.”

“I hear I gotta come to a bakery in Brooklyn now.”

“Oh yeah. You got any favorites? Tell me, and I’ll send a preview with Dom next week.”

“I’m pretty traditional.”

“You want brownies, cookies, or cake?”

“Cookies.”

“Deal. Sonny’ll have you a batch Monday.”

“I like her, Carisi,” Fin said, clapping a hand on the younger detective’s shoulder before going to get his drink and greet Barba.

“It’s not fair. You can make cookies and everyone instantly likes you.”

“You seen your goofy grin? You don’t even have to talk to be likable.”

She was rewarded with a kiss to the temple and the aforementioned grin. Soon enough, Amaro and Rollins were there, and Barba poured the pricey champagne he’d brought to toast. Everyone finally got comfortable after that, Sonny settled on the arm of the couch beside Victoria, and Noah was teetering around the coffee table. Victoria was happy to babble to him, and he could see she felt proud when Noah decided to climb onto her lap. God, she was going to be a good mom if they ever stabilized. Couples therapy would start soon. They’d always said when he finished school, and that would actually be happening the next year. Maybe if they were doing well they could have their own baby. All of his sisters were pregnant or already had kids, and fatherhood had been Sonny’s dream.

 As Noah leaned into Victoria, he looked up at Sonny, who was happy to wave down at him. It seemed Lucy liked getting a break to talk to the adults, and he could see the look on Olivia’s face watching Noah. She liked seeing the boy bond with the family she’d made through work. He probably owed a lot of the growth that got him Victoria back to her. The squad was a family with Olivia as their matriarch, and he’d felt safe enough to verbalize his feelings in the first days with her team, when he still had the moustache Victoria had recently informed him really was awful when he tried to defend it. 

“I can take him if you need me to, Victoria. He’s out,” she said from her spot beside Barba. 

“It’s fine. He’s so cuddly.”

“You’re sure?”

“Yeah. Long as Sonny doesn’t mind getting me a glass of wine.”

“On it, doll,” he grinned, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. Victoria had always loved when their nieces fell asleep on her like this when they were babies. Mia had been the first one, and they took to each other quickly, even if Victoria had been the neighbor kid at the time. They hadn’t broached kids again, and frankly she was afraid of the prospect, but she’d wanted to have kids with Sonny since they got married. Logically, she knew they had to wait until the time was right. Originally, that was just when he finished school, but now they had to play it by ear again. Either way, she was going to savor the smell of baby as Noah slept with his cheek pressed against her shoulder. She wasn’t as good at the play as Sonny was; every child he encountered bonded with him easily, something that had to be helpful in his job. Victoria was good at cuddling and nurturing though. When the first members of the team trickled out, she settled Noah in his mother’s arms and gave her the best hug she could. 

“Thanks for including me. I’m so happy for you, Olivia.”

“Thanks for coming. Noah loves you. Mind being added to the babysitter list?”

“I am honored.” Sonny led her out, hand on the small of her back and a crooked smile plastered across his face. Everyone loved her, like he knew they would. How could someone not? It was near dinner, so without checking, he led the way to a sushi bar near Olivia’s. As he guided her in, she looked up at him with her brow furrowed.

“Dinner date?” He was proud to see her cheeks turn pink.

“I’d like that. You been spoiling me lately.”

“I just been acting like I should. You been pretty damn good to me too.”

“Wanna get saki?”

“Are trying to get me drunk?”

“You only have to go in tomorrow if there’s an emergency.”

“Saki it is.” 

“I was thinking I might plan us a trip in November.”

“Yeah? Could be fun.”

“Any place you wanna go? You’ll be who we’re celebrating.”

“Oh?” he asked, brow lifted as he smiled at her. 

“Dirty thirty.” 

“Dirty thirty? Really Tor?”

“It’ll be fun.”

“I was thinking about New Orleans next year. Could be fun near the holidays instead. Do something bigger for our anniversary.”

“I like the way you think. Plus, July is hot as hell. I’ll tell you the dates when I know.”

“I can’t wait. I’m glad we’ll be together over the holidays.”

“I’m glad we’ll be together on our anniversary. We missed two.”

“One,” he said, puzzled before he winced. “Wait no, you’re right. I was being a bad husband.”

“Nah, you weren’t doing well,” she assured him, hand on his thigh. 

“Ninth, we’re staying here. Tenth, we’re going big.”

“Deal. I love you, Tor.”

“And I love you.”

“You were real good with Noah.”

“He’s such a cuddly boy.”

“I told Lieu I gotta hang out with him sometimes. The girl gene runs real strong with the Carisis. Four nieces, no nephews? And then non Carisi niece on her way from Rollins.”

“Only two have been born. Mom thought I was going to be a boy.”

“True. Fingers crossed. Or maybe we’ll have a boy.”

“Dom-”

“I ain’t saying tomorrow. I’m just saying therapy is going good, we’re doing good, couples therapy is soon, and I bet we have a kid in before I’m forty.” She laughed, kissing him softly. “I think it’ll be sooner than that. Maybe in like three?”

“Even better. I can’t wait to feel our baby kick one day. Know they’re there. It’ll happen when we’re ready. Not a minute sooner. God’s got a plan.” 

“We just gotta be careful, okay? I want to try to not get pregnant for a while.”

“I know, Tor.”

“Don’t get testy. I wanna make sure we’re ready.”

“I know. Just- seeing you with Noah and Jessie? Set off the ‘I want kids’ bell stronger than last time.”

“Me too. Every time I see you hold the kids.”

“We gotta baby sit more to tide me over.”

“I got a feeling I’ll be getting calls from Liv. You make that clear to Amanda. Then soon enough? Gina’s almost due. Then Bella.”

“True,” he smiled softly. “If we wait they get to be the only Carisi baby that year. Even more attention.”

“You’ll spoil them rotten.”

“That’s my job.”

“We get the day tomorrow, unless somethin’ happens.”

“We do. I gotta go to the bakery for a couple hours at least to help train the newest hire. Margy picked good, but they’re taking weekends for me.”

“I’m really excited about that. I think it’ll be good now that it’s an option.”

“Me too. We both get to be in case of emergency for the most part.”

“Yeah. Liv will rotate all of us taking a Saturday.”

“I guess I’ll just have to find somebody’s baby to play with,” she teased, poking his side and he grinned. 

“Y’know, I think we ought to start practicin’ when we go home, doll.”

“Read my mind, Sonny.”

Tag List: @cycat4077​ @fear-less-write-more​

[darnianwayne]

It was raining. Below, the mobster Bruce had been tailing for the past fifteen minutes stopped in front of Mathew Sampson’s apartment complex and pulled out a gun.

Bruce reached for his grapple—

And then a smudge of gray dropped on top of the mobster.

Shots fired.

Bruce could not see distinct features, blurred in the rain. But he recognized those movements. Brutal. Effortless. Efficient. The gray smudge got close, tossed something black and hefty—the gun—aside, kicked in the mobster’s knees before he could fully rise, and knocked him on his back with two quick punches to the chest and temple.

Bruce pressed the comm in the cowl and tried to connect their frequencies.

Nothing.

Not surprising, all things considered.

The gray figure kicked the prone mobster half off the curb and crouched over him. Then he ran off and disappeared into the alleys.

Bruce shot his grapple and jumped down. He approached the mobster, examining him. Bruised but alive. Out cold. There was a note pinned to the inside of his collar, partially protected from the rain.

Planned on kidnapping Elouise Sampson. You’re welcome.

The note was signed with a single stylized, encircled R.

It took the better part of the night, trying to pick up his trail, following the detritus of unconscious bodies across Gotham, but eventually Bruce found him balancing on the gargoyle of a cathedral across the street from WE, gazing up at its highest floor.

It was still pouring, and the world beyond blurred away.

“Robin,” he said.

The gray figure did not turn. “Batman.”

Bruce took off his cowl.

“Damian,” he said. “I have been looking for you.”

“I know.”

“Where have you been?”

“Like you don’t know.”

“Damian. It’s time to come home. Please.”

Still he did not turn.

“I don’t have a home here,” said Damian.

“You will always have a home here.”

“Except, of course, when you die or forget I exist or reject me or try to cage me.”

“What are you doing here then?”

“My job,” said Damian. When Bruce didn’t respond, he added, “Dick asked us back. Bonding or something, I think.”

“Hrm,” Bruce grunted. “Us?”

Finally Damian turned. He stared at him, unimpressed, and somehow through the mask, Bruce could tell he was being judged and found lacking. A familiar look.

Ah.

“Robins,” Bruce realized.

“Yes,” said Damian. He tilted his head, considering him. Then he took off his own mask. “Father,” he said.

Bruce took a step forward. “Son—”

A sword pointed at his neck. Bruce stopped.

“That’s quite close enough. I am only here for tonight. I must return soon, and it would not do to be trapped here by the Batman.”

“I would not trap you,” said Bruce. “I want you to come home, by choice.”

“A heart-warming sentiment, but unlikely. Besides, you already have a Robin.”

“There can be two Robins. There was once two Batmen. You’ve worked with both of us.”

Damian frowned and lowered his sword. “Ah, yes, the old glory days. Tell me, Father, do you remember what you told me after you came back to life? After our first mission together as Batman and Robin.”

Bruce’s mouth pressed into a thin line.

“You said the chances of our working together on a regular basis as Batman and Robin were zero. Not practically zero or close to zero. Zero. Then you foisted me off on Dick Grayson and left the country.”

“I remember. You disobeyed orders.”

“We all disobey orders.” Damian turned his back to him and looked back at WE. At the top floor, where he had spent a year living, learning, changing. “That was first time I met the Heretic.”

Bruce blinked. “I—I didn’t know that.”

“Old news,” said Damian, flippantly.

They lapsed into silence, Damian staring at the penthouse and Bruce staring at Damian.

“The suit is new,” said Bruce eventually.

“World’s greatest detective,” muttered Damian.

“The boot spikes...”

Damian glared back at him. “They’re useful. And they look cool.”

“They look cool,” agreed Bruce, straight-faced.

Damian sighed and rolled his eyes. “Can I help you, Father, or will you be continuing to make obvious observations in an attempt to keep this conversation going?”

“Tim is with the Titans tonight.”

“Another astute observation.”

“Batman needs a Robin,” said Bruce.

“Could have fooled me.”

“The Maronis do not know that their man has been stopped yet. They still expect Eloise Sampson to show to use against her father. Matthew Sampson is a head of Light Engineering at Wayne Tech. Because Sampson refuses to sell to them, Maroni plans on forcing Sampson to engineer new cloaking devices to shield his men.”

“Invisible gangsters. Fascinating. Was there a request somewhere in there, Father?”

“We should pay a visit to the Maronis,” suggested Bruce.

Damian paused. “You want to bond over beating up some two-bit criminals?”

“The Maronis hold a significant influence over Gotham.”

“Three-bit criminals then. Hard pass,” said Damian, waving a hand. “I appreciate the effort, Father, but I do not think an outing together would be productive.”

“We work well together.”

“Sometimes.”

“Damian. You’re my son.” Desperate.

“And wouldn’t your life be easier if I wasn’t?”

“That’s not what I—”

“I know.” Damian sheathed his sword and put on his mask. “I do not blame you, y’know. You taught me much. But I need to be alone now.”

“I miss you. We all do.”

“I...” Damian took a step back, balancing on the gargoyle’s head. Softly, he admitted, “I miss you, too.”

And he took another step and dropped from view.

Bruce did not rush forward. Through the rain he thought he saw the line of a grapple shoot out and attach to WE. Then that disappeared, too, another passing line in the downpour.

[angeltrapz]

ok saw asks!!! bcuz i have Amanda on th brain rn i wd like ur take on her interacting w Lawrence? personally idk how much she knew of his involvement bc she implies in 3 tht Lynn was entirely John's choice, but i also think th idea of her Knowing + deliberately not telling Hoffman is extremely funny. Hoffman cant come 2 th weekly disciple meeting bcuz hes got Cop Business so he misses Lawrence's introduction + Amanda is just like "sure John of course ill tell Mark that we got a new friend :)" and just never does. LOVE that thought

dhgsdkj thank u!!

it Is extremely funny 2 think that she just. knows but refuses to tell Hoffman + THAT'S why Hoffman doesn't know who Lawrence is until he jabs him w the needle + takes off the pig mask lmao omg. just like "oh yeah of course I'll tell Mark we have a new teammate don't worry abt it!" and she Never Does dkjkdsg??

okay but 2 Seriously answer yr question. when I think abt it I always think that like. it wld b pretty hard fr John 2 keep them frm each other given how integral Lawrence's participation is in every game from SAW II onward? 'cause like we know Amanda helps w the kidnapping process + placing them in their traps, which one CLD argue would only mean she wld see them after Lawrence would do his thing but. I feel like she'd be vaguely aware? bc she wld also then have 2 know that he survived his game, given that she helped set it up - we know that she'd AT LEAST know his name.

to elaborate on th idea that only HOFFMAN doesn't know (both bc it's fucking hilarious + actually how I view things happening jdkhfksd), I feel like Amanda + Lawrence's interactions wld be rather limited. in canon, Lawrence becomes a disciple after John "rehabilitates" him or whtever he wants 2 call it, but I feel he'd have to be aware of Amanda, too - both that she is also a disciple + SHE'S th one who helped get him in the bathroom in th first place. as grateful as Lawrence seems to feel toward John + as much as he believes in John's "work," I feel like that wld be smth he'd have to work thru: working side by side w someone who had a direct hand in basically destroying yr life as u knew it. n I feel like Amanda wld know that, n as such she'd want to keep her distance bc she can't predict how this man will act/what he will do, even if he is technically on her side. so like. things wld def be tense btwn them until Lawrence has had some time 2 process his new life + what tht means for him, and until the two of them can have some sort of talk/acknowledgement of that.

though I will say that their roles kind of imply they'd at least see a good bit of each other. Amanda scouts, in a way, helps subdue & bring ppl in, which wld then be brought to Lawrence fr any medical procedures they feel r needed (such as sewing th key behind Michael's eye in II) so it'd definitely be like a "hey did u bring some1?" sort of thing. Mark is muscle of course so like I know he def helped on tht end (I believe Amanda is th one who caught Lawrence in the parking garage but like it wld be SO much funnier if Hoffman was the one crawling around) but IDK if he rly Saw Lawrence bc. Cop Business. so he'd just kinda b like "here u go" n bring ppl to Amanda n then peace out 'cause he's gotta keep tht reputation of Respected Detective. we know he also might've messed w traps themselves as well (like The Rack in III), which wld definitely keep him separate from Lawrence bc Lawrence had No Involvement in designing/setting up traps. tht was strictly a John/Hoffman/Amanda endeavour.

as fr how they'd feel abt each other? it's really dependent on how u view thm as characters. Lawrence, after he becomes a disciple, believes that what John is doing is truly helpful and truly has the capability to change lives; he devotes himself 2 it, shows countless times tht he has complete faith in John + his methods, so much so that John left a tape fr him telling him to look after Jill + to act on his behalf if smth were to happen to her. he calls Lawrence his greatest asset. his trust in John + the Jigsaw legacy is unwavering.

Amanda, however, has been shown several times to act directly against John's beliefs, such as constructing inescapable traps (Kerry) or rigging others' games (Adam). th breakdown she has in III I think showcases the disconnect between her love fr John as a mentor/father figure, and the realization that not only is John entirely hypocritical and doesn't stay true to his own beliefs half th time, he truly has shown no regard fr her safety + has only been using her to further the agenda that was built upon a fragile foundation 2 begin with. u've mentioned this b4 too but John always liked 2 say that if u can anticipate the human mind, then nothing is up 2 chance - which wld mean that he KNEW Xavier might throw Amanda into the Needle Pit to get out of it. he KNEW Daniel was just a fucking kid and was perfectly fine w putting him in very real danger to get back at some1 he felt like needling fr the express purpose of provocation and nothing else. he KNEW Laura, a woman she'd formed a bond w and pretty much swore to protect th minute she woke up and saw her crying in the corner, could begin to seize n choke on her own vomit and die in that house. he knew all of those things, ENCOURAGED the belief that smth was wrong w her because she wasn't "fixed" as he had claimed, and it's so unfortunate that she doesn't realize that sooner (I fully agree that she deserved to lose her shit completely on John. it's what he deserved! it's what SHE deserved!!!) but she still Does before she dies (which, again, I Don't think should've happened. she didn't deserve 2 go out like tht + she deserved so much more of her story being told).

so there's the conflict of beliefs between thm. I think Amanda definitely starts out like Lawrence does, completely devoted + believing every word John says, but thru II we can see that certainty begin to falter n her faith in John is completely shaken by the end. I don't think Lawrence wld Know she felt tht way until after she died, if he ever finds out at all, bc I doubt that's smth she'd want to express. it's not even smth she discusses w John himself until III, in which she's already made up her mind to shoot Lynn as a final act of misguided disobedience. I still think tht Lawrence wld feel fr her in some way, though, bc even b4 he became a disciple he was rather horrified when Sing + Tapp had him sit thru her testimony; his feelings would change on this a lil, bc he'd see it as her rebirth (as she once did too), but I still feel like he'd want 2 like. watch over her a little. not super directly, + not because he felt threatened by her presence or anything like that, but because they're in this together n I'm sure John's told him abt some of the circumstances regarding how she came to be a disciple after her game as well. I feel like he wld definitely be saddened by her passing, bc I feel he'd come 2 respect her at least a bit, but fr him it's like. they have 2 keep moving. John is gone now too, smth I'm sure was probably a pretty huge blow fr Lawrence, and now he has to put his energy into making sure Hoffman stays unaware of him. just in case he has to act on that warning John gave him abt Jill. but he wld still miss Amanda n wld mourn her, to be sure.

I don't think they'd be close or anything like tht. kind of just friendly coworkers who only see each other every once in a while, passing thru the doors of each other's lives with a nod and a wave and maybe a greeting if they're feeling up 2 it. they're not too involved. Amanda can't tell u tht Lawrence's favourite flowers are sunflowers. Lawrence can't tell u tht Amanda's favourite smell is lavender or tht her favourite colour is a deep, almost greyish purple. but they're connected thru John, thru their work, n that still means smth to both of them, at least in some manner. when Amanda dies, Lawrence grieves. Jill pays for her headstone n Lawrence makes sure to bring fresh flowers every once in a while, but he has to hold his head up n keep walking. now tht John's gone, there's work to be done.

and someone's gotta keep an eye on Hoffman.

[teamdoubleoh]

Boothroyd was Q’s Grandfather

vaguely (sorry) based on this post by @tamquamm and @spiritofcamelot s request. Also infused is @caffeinatedflummadiddlebutmerlin​ s gender fluid merlin, though I didn’t ask If I could use the concept, sorry.

pt. 1/2                                                                                                    wordcount: 3533                                                                                            unbeta:ed (And written by someone who can’t spell for shite in any language.)

Q has heard all about MI6 from his grandfather, Gregory, also known as Major Boothroyd. Bond’s predecessor as 007 used to annoy Boothroyd to no end so when Q meets Bond he finds himself unable to resist making one or three references to his grandfathers work at MI6. The older Minions are in on it, the younger ones think it’s hilarious and Bond thinks Q is very pretty when he smiles so he won’t ask what the hell is going on, as long as it makes Q happy.

TLTR: Q is a Holmes, the Minions treat quotes from Boothroyd like vines, Eve is a genius and Bond is in love. They get drunk, and Bond learns about Q and his family.

(This developed from a 500-word Drabble to a 3.6k monstrosity. Also Q is a Holmes and has a fourth sibling.)

When Bond had first met Q he’d still been unaccustomed to the name Q in reference to the Quartermaster. For as long as he’d been an agent the Quartermaster had been Major Gregory Boothroyd, who had been referred to by most agents as Major Boothroyd.

This had made calling the new Quartermaster Q very easy, and even though Bond liked to let of snarky remarks about Q’s age, he was well aware that Boothroyd would have never appointed anyone as R who wasn’t perfectly fit to take over as Quartermaster at any given time. And yet James had thought that this new Quartermaster would be someone who wasn’t used to the antics of agents or at least the double-oh’s and thus easier to irritate. He was wrong.

At First he had thought it coincidence.

Q had sat next to him in the national gallery, made a comment about the inevitability of time and handed him his equipment. Then, just as he was about to leave, he had reminded Bond to return the equipment in one piece.

There had been something in his eyes Bond couldn’t quite place - but it came close to a look he know from his missions - something in the eyes of someone who had just fooled everyone in a game of poker to go all in, only to reveal a royal flush.

James had dismissed it, had thought he’d interpreted too much into a single look. He should have known better, of course there had been something. Saying these words had meant more to Q than the pride of being the Quartermaster of MI6 could rectify. He had smiled his tight little smile and his eyes had shone with pure mirth.

It had happened again and again; pieces of dialogue between him and Q that seemed to light the Quartermaster up.

Once he had been going over the speed limit while on mission; not an irregular occurrence, sure, but for some reason Q had seemed delighted when he reminded Bond that he had a licence to kill, not to break the traffic laws. Bond had hesitated momentarily and answered that, yes he was aware. The pure satisfaction Q had radiated when he said »Good!« Had been clearly audible over com. So had been R’s snort in the background.

Another time they’d been standing in Q branch and Q had begrudgingly handed James a ›class four grenade‹, whatever that meant. James had been delighted to find that it looked very much like an ordinary pen and made a witty comment about how the pen was mightier than the sword. Q had smiled as he reminded Bond that that was now in fact the case and that James had to thank Q for that. James had smiled flirtily. »Did you just make joke Q?«

Q just shook his head in something that seemed to be a combination of genuine distress and mirth. »I never joke about my work 007.«

At least two senior minions had trouble to stifle their laughs while one of the new ones working nearby just grinned for the remainder of Bond’s stay in Q-Branch.

Since it was common knowledge that basically anything in Q-brach was deadly -  including any and all personnel - many of the A-list Agents and most of the double-oh’s were very careful when it came to touching things. The only double-oh who seemingly forgot this every time he appeared before and after missions was, of course, 007. He had the potentially fatal habit to pick up whatever was in his reach to twirl it around or trow it in the air.

One particular time he’d just put down a poisoned ring when he’d set eyes on a brown paper bag that looked innocent enough to him. When he went to pick it up Q turned around, lightning fast, and pulled the bag from his hands exclaiming loudly, »DON’T TOUCH THAT! That’s my lunch!« to the obvious amusement of everyone in the vicinity.

Whenever James said something remotely illogical, immature or not well thought out, Q immediately quipped »Oh, grow up 007«. After three weeks of this the phrase had become something of an inside joke between the minions and Bond, and even he could appreciate it, even though he didn’t quite understood why it was that funny.  

Bond only figured it out after Eve had invited him to one of her and Q’s monthly movie nights, though there was more drinking than movie watching.

***

They’d met at Q’s flat because it was located more or less exactly between Bond’s and Moneypenny’s. It was cozy and reasonably small, but not cluttered.  The living room was not very lived in, which made sense to James when he considered Q’s working habits, but well furnished.

There was a worn couch that could hold all three of them if they squeezed, as well as an armchair and a wooden coffee table. Next to two bookcases there was a drawer that was probably supposed to hold silverware and tablecloths but the bottom drawer was pulled open and filled to the brim with scraps and bits of old tech.

Much more interesting was what Q had placed on top of the drawer. There were photos. Photos of the Quartermaster, some of him alone with different diplomas, some together with others or groups of people.

To James’ amazement one showed Q standing next to Mycroft Holmes. Bond had been introduced once, by his M, who hadn’t actually mentioned what Holmes did - only that he was basically everyone’s superior and also on speaking terms with the Royal family.

Another picture displayed a black door adorned with golden letters, telling the passing crowd that this was number 221b. In front stood an old lady with two younger men behind her. One of them was Sherlock Holmes, Bonds realised, the genius detective who’d killed himself a few years back. The other, Bond recognised from his army days as one lieutenant John Watson. Next to the old lady there was the Quartermaster, bespectacled and wearing one of his cardigans.

One photo, at least twenty years old, displayed a younger version of M, Olivia Mansfield, next to a stern looking woman in a emerald green gown, that looked like it came straight from the late 19. hundreds, a woman that could only be described as ›motherly‹ and the woman from the picture with the detective.

The most recent picture was probably the one of the royal wedding. Bond remembered reading about it in a paper he’d nicked from a minions desk on his way to the airport. The crown prince Arthur Pendragon had caused a worldwide uproar when he’d announced he was not only bisexual but also planning to wed one Myrdinn Holmes.

The picture that stood in the very front showed a younger version of Q and Major Boothroyd. Q was standing behind Boothroyd’s motorised wheelchair in the old Q-Branch, the one that Silva had blow up, and both were smiling brightly at the camera.

Bond turned to Q who was setting down glasses on a small couch table.

»You and Boothroyd. You were close, weren’t you?« James asked softly.

Q hesitated before stepping next to Bond. He picked up the frame and showed Bond the backside where someone had written ›Q and Q - the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree’

James turned to look at Q. He know how the Quartermaster looked, he had spent enough time staring at him when Q wasn’t looking but only now he noticed how similar Q and Boothroyd had been, both in complexion and behaviour.

»He was your grandfather. I’m... sorry for your loss« James stated.

»Who?« Moneypenny asked. She had appeared in the doorway to the small kitchen, holding a bottle of some alcoholic beverage in hand, which she had apparently opened already.

»Boothroyd.« James answered quietly.

Q smiled, the nostalgia in his voice barely concealed »He used to tell me stories about MI6, when I was little. About his work and the agents.«

»Did he tell you about what a great agent I was?« Bond smirked, trying to lighten the mood a little.

»By the time you were a double-oh I was already working for MI6, unofficially I mean. He told me about 007 - your predecessor that is. It was a joke between him and me, you know? The ›grow up 007‹. We would make wagers about how often he could get away with saying it to 007 before he got suspicious.«

Moneypenny snorted a little.

Q smiled his brilliant smile at her, melancholy all but forgotten now. »He told be about you, too. Said you were brilliant. He always wanted to make a bet about how you would be M some day. I never accepted because I knew he was right.«

Moneypenny put her head to one side. »I was still an agent back then…«

Q only shrugged. »He said you were too good to be an agent.«

Moneypenny blushed lightly and smiled happily. »Sounds like he was a good grandfather.«

Bond grinned. »Sounds like he was just like Q.«

Q turned to the coffee table to pour three glasses of what appeared to be Bombay sapphire and gave James and Eve one each. »You’re both right. Now, what movie shall we get drunk to?«

***

Three hours later they were sprawled on top of each other across the seating accommodations.

The only source of light was a small lamp, standing atop the drawer, which emitted a warm, candle like light.

Eve had called dibs on the armchair ages ago, eying Q and James with barely hidden mirth.

After two hours of drinking she’d picked up the framed photo of the royal wedding and waxed about the beauty of the crown princes sister, while Q and James smiled, already too intoxicated to mind the terrible puns and metaphors comparing the duchess’s hair to the night sky and her eyes to stars. In a final motion of grandeur she’d remarked that the lady looked like she could kill anyone, just by staring them down.

After half an hour she’d put the frame back and hadn’t said a thing for at least thirty minutes before exclaiming in a fit of something that Q could only call euphoria, »R is Q’s second in command because R comes after Q in the alphabet!«

Then she’d closed her eyes and started snoring softly.

Q, who had given up trying to keep his distance from James on the tiny couch and instead had now sprawled out on top of the other man like a drunk blanket, had only murmured »Bloody hell« before refraining from saying anything more and staring at the ceiling in silent contemplation instead.

Bond was silent. There was a warm, fuzzy feeling in his chest that could have been caused by alcohol as much as by the adorable idiot that had chosen him as his mattress and was now studying the ceiling.

Bond turned his head, slowly, as not to disturb Q, to look at the picture of Q and Boothroyd - Q’s grandfather - on the drawer next to the couch.

»Did you know M? Olivia Mansfield?« He asked softly.

Q turned his face towards the drawer too. »Why else would I keep her picture?« His answer had been barely a murmur but the voice was right next to James’s ear.

James snorted softly. »You can’t tell me you know everyone in these Photos Q.«

»You’re adorable.«Q smiled lazily against Bonds chest.

Bonds heartbeat quickened the slightest bit. »Q. You do know there is a photo of Mycroft Holmes on your drawer.«

Q wiggled a bit so he could see the frames without rearranging his vertebrae and frowned slightly. »Why wouldn’t I know Mycroft?«

Bond wanted to shrug, but Q sounded like he was almost asleep. » M - my M - introduced me once. Told me he was her superior. Said he was friends with the Royal family.« He paused for a second, before continuing »She also told me to never, ever, piss him off.«

»She knew you well, huh?«

»S’pose so.«

»Granperé told Mycroft about you too.«

»Boothroyd told Mycroft Holmes about me?«

»’Told him about all agents.« Q corrected.

Bond smiled about the absurdity. »Your Grandfather spied at MI6 for Mycroft Holmes?«

» ’course. So do I« Q slurred, before snuggling closer to James’ chest.

»Why? He’s Mycroft Holmes. ’s not like he needs outside support now, does he?«

»Outside?«

»Y’know, not family.«

»Boothroyd was Mycroft’s family, Bond.«

James chocked on air. »You’re related to Holmes? What, s’ he your uncle?«

»Don’t be daft Bond, I’m not related to a Holmes- «

»Could you stop calling me Bond all the time?«

»If you stop interrupting me I will. I’m not related to a Holmes, I am a Holmes.«

» You’re a Holmes… Mycroft Holmes is your cousin.«

»Brother.«

»…Ah.«

Q found that he was almost asleep, which was a feat in itself, considering where he was currently located.

Then James spoke up again. »That’s how you now the royal family then? Through Mycroft?«

»Why the royal family?«

»You have a picture of the royal wedding framed Q. Although I s’pose keeping a picture of your brother and your former Boss is slightly different from keeping picture of the Pendragon family, even if you were introduced. Hadn’t taken you for a royalist, Dear Quartermaster.«

»My former Boss?«

»M, Q. Olivia Mansfield?«

»Oh yeah. I don’t keep her picture because she w’s my boss.«

» ’Thought you only kept pictures of people you knew.«

»Actually not true. ’only keep pictures of Fam’ly.«

»You’re related to M?« Bond had known M had had children, but not much else.

»My mothers sister. One of the four Ms.« Q giggled like he’d made a formidable joke.

»Your’ aunt’s and mother’s names all start with M?« James asked, a smile on his lips.

» ’course not, James. You know M’s name was Olivia. They all grew up to be M though.«

Q reached out to grab the picture displaying M and what apparently were her sisters but failed.

James picked it up and handed it to Q, who turned so he faced the ceiling again and pointed at M to explain.

»You know Olivia Mansfield, born Holmes, who was called M for her position in MI6.«

He pointed at the woman who James had dubbed ›motherly‹ upon first glance a few hours back. »This is my mother. Her name is Violet Holmes. She kept her last name when she married my father but no one calls her Violet of even Mrs. Holmes. Everyone just calls her Mummy. Mycroft started it when we were kids and it stuck. This is her older sister, Minerva,« Q pointed out the stern looking woman. »She’s Headmistress in a… private school up north… well. And this is Martha, the youngest. She got married too, but Mr. Hudson did some illegal stuff on the other side of the pond and got himself on death trail. Martha asked Sherlock for help, of course. Now she lives in London again. Thus the four Ms; Minerva, Mummy, M and Martha.« Q trailed off.

James picked up the photo of the woman he now knew as Martha Hudson in front of the door and showed it to Q, pointing out the short man standing behind her left shoulder. »John Watson, right? I know him. Used to know him, I mean, in the army.«

»Hasn’t been a Watson in some time though. Goes by John Watson-Holmes now. ’S my brother in law.«

»Mycroft is married?« James asked softly. ›Mycroft is gay?‹ went unsaid.

»He’s married, alright. Not to John mind you, but Lestrade. His first name is Greg, but everyone ’cept Mycroft calls him Lestrade. Gregory Lestrade-Holmes is quite a mouthful, so we collectively decided to go with the easier option.« Q grinned lazily.

James blinked a few times. Now Q had lost him. »’Thought you said John was you brother-in-law?«

»I have more than one sibling, James. John is married to Sherlock, my second brother.«

» Thought I lost you back there for a mo’. How are you related to the Pendragons then? You in line for the throne or s’mthing?« James joked.

Q laughed for a few glorious seconds before catching his breath. » Yes, very funny James.«

»You said you only kept photos of your family Q,« James answered with fake outrage. »And now I have to find out you’re not actually related to Royalty?«

»Don’t be silly James, I know what I said. And technically I am related to them, though only by marriage. Hand me the photo of the wedding and I'll show you.«

James complied happily. »I have to say Q. After the confusion with your brothers I am now genuinely interested how you could possibly complicate this further.«

Q let out a stifled groan. He pointed out the few familiar faces out of the crowd of nobility behind them. While the nobles kept in the back the King stood in the middle of the picture, right behind the happy couple. To Arthurs right there was his sister, smiling happily at her brother, who only had eyes for his husband. »It’s not that bad. Let me show you. This is the king, as I hope you realise. These are his children Morgana also known as Eve’s long-time crush and -.«

»I know you think me a fool Q, but I do recognise the King of the country I have sworn my life to.« James smiled while shaking his head in disbelief.

Q groaned. »Oh shush James. If you’re so knowledgable, why don’t you tell me who these people are and save me the effort, hm?«

James mentally shrugged. There were only four people in Britain who were actually royals at the moment and he knew their names. After all, he had legally died for one of them.

He pointed at each person as he went along. » This is, as you have so graciously explained dear Q, the King, Uther Pendragon, whom I coincidentally happen to have sworn my life too. Then there’s the crown prince, Arthur Pendragon, who I will pledge my life to should I mysteriously manage to outlive the King. This one is the lovely lady who Eve has the undeniable crush on. Huh.« He pulled the framer closer. »She really does look like she could kill me. Name’s Morgana Pendragon, illegitimate daughter to the king. I believe she a duchess but I couldn’t tell you her title if my life depended on it.«

»If it’s any consolation, I don’t know it either.« Q quipped.

James rolled his eyes fondly. »I thought you wanted to save your breath, Q.«

Q only let out a ›tsk‹ noise, so James returned to his explanation. »And that is the crown prince’s husband, of whom I only know because I nicked a newspaper from Q-Branch on my way to the airport. Should both Uther and Arthur die before me I would pledge my life to him too, I suppose.« James mused. »His name is Myrdinn Pendragon. I’m sorry to admit I don’t know his title though.«

»He goes by ›prince consort‹. Now, you see who that is standing in the far left corner, right behind the lady so-and-so?«

»Is that…Mummy?«

»Hm hm. That next to her is my father. If you squint you can even see me, right next to Mummy. I was wearing a suit, you know. Mummy confiscated all my cardigans. To my left there even are two of my siblings and their husbands.« Q seemed genuinely upset about the fact that he hadn’t been able to wear a cardigan to the royal wedding.

»Two of your siblings? You have a sister?«

»Occasionally. They’re gender fluid.« Q frowned up at James, scrunching his nose. »You do know what gender fluidity is?«

»I’m an agent, I know about people. You have another sibling then?«

»’s male that day. Name ’s Merlin. He’s right there.« Q murmured, eyes fallen shut from fatigue.

James brought the picture to his face, trying to make out another figure in the crowd he now recognised as the Holmes’.

As if sensing his confusion Q looked up. »In the middle, James.«

James’ eyes darted back to the middle where the royal family stood.

For a moment it was silent.

»Q« James asked gingerly.

»Hm?« Q’s eyes had fallen shut again.

»Are you telling me your brother is married to the crown prince?«

»Sibling. Yes.«

»…Alright.«

It was quiet for another few seconds.

»Who used to be your favourite?«

»Hm?«

»You said Boothroyd used to tell you about the agents. Who was your favourite?«

»Moneypenny.« Q answered deadpan.

»Awe, you hurt me dear Q.« James put the pile of picture frames on the floor next to the couch, then he wiggled to make himself more comfortable and slung his arms around Q. »Who’s your favourite now?«

»Oh, grow up 007.« Q murmured, face pressed against Bonds chest. For a few seconds he was silent. Then Q spoke up again. »James?«

»Q.«

»Would you mind putting out the light?«

»Not at all. If you could do us all the favour and introduce Eve to your sister-in-law.«

»I’ll invite you both for Christmas at the palace.«

»You are lovely, you know that.«

»So are you. Now shut it.«