#they're being kids for a moment and nothing seems wrong until oh wait oh shit they've wasted DAYS

[rotisseries]

episode 6 review: uh yikes 😬

The episode just felt like a whole bunch of explanations and SOME little fun bits inside. but also what was the point of Grover forgetting and going off on his own? I get that it establishes Grover's want of finding Pan, but also it doesn't???

And the like lore drop so early is kinda crazy, because what I liked abt the book series was while you do know Luke hates the gods, his reasons for hating them become more clear as both Percy and the readers learn more about their messed up world and Luke's backstory. So very show not tell. The show does the opposite in that it tells you without really showing you.

But yeah, a very meh episode with a few fun bits

yeah.

[strangersteddierthings]

What's Eight Plus Seven?

Part One🦇Part Two🦇Part Three🦇Part Four🦇Part Five

Alright y'all. We had the hurt, let's get some comfort started.

-

Steve leans against his door, expecting Eddie to follow him upstairs to continue their argument because Eddie's never been one to back down from an argument as far as Steve can tell, so he's using his weight to keep the door shut. It takes about five minutes of just leaning against the door before he hears a few light knocks on the door. He pretends he didn't hear them and soon starts to hear Eddie monologue-ing on the other side. He thinks he hears a 'sorry' and an 'I fucked up' but he doesn't really tune in until Eddie says something about cancelling Hellfire.

Spinning quickly, he yanks the door open and says, "You better not fucking cancel!"

"What? Don't you, like, want me out of your house?" Eddie looks startled and sounds confused.

"What I want is for the kids to get to play Dungeons and Dorks for an afternoon, just getting to be kids and fight against monsters that can't actually kill them," Steve says as he goes to put his hands on his hips (a move that Robin calls his Bitch Stance) but realizes he can't while still holding a book, so instead he folds his arms across his chest, cradling the book to his body.

He waits for Eddie to call him out for saying dorks instead of dragons, but Eddie just blinks at him, quiet for a moment before he says, "Oh. Uh, okay then. I'll just, uhh, I'll be back closer to noon, then. For the game."

"Don't you have prep to do?" Steve knows he's trying to pick a fight now but he's angry, and sad, and hurt underneath it all. Also, he doesn't understand the change in Eddie suddenly. Ten-ish minutes ago Eddie had shouted back I wasn’t exactly wrong, was I? You were a jock, a bully even! Where is that anger now?

"No. Not, uh, not really," Eddie says, avoiding meeting Steve's gaze, face turning a very light pink. "I was- I mean, yes, there was prep, but I did a majority of that already and what's left will take maybe three minutes so..."

Steve's confused now, still trying to cling to his anger. "But you called and asked if it was okay to come early specifically for that reason."

Eddie doesn't respond right away. He turns around to walk to the wall opposite Steve's door and thump his forehead against it. Steve is perplexed by the behavior (but he's been perplexed by Eddie since finding him at Reefer Rick's) so he just watches in silence as Eddie heaves a sigh and turns around to slump against the wall, facing Steve once again. He runs a hand through his hair, then drags that hand back forward and down his face. "Yeah. I did do that."

"So, what, you lied? Why?"

"I just wanted to hang out," Eddie whispers, like it almost hurts him to say out loud, which is such a weird thing to hear because it makes Eddie seem small in a way Steve's never seen him. Even during spring break Eddie was never small or quiet; his fear manifested as shouting, for fuck's sake. It chips away at the last of Steve's anger. He's long past the days of kicking someone when they're down.

"You... wanted to hang out," Steve repeats before heaving a sigh of his own, long-suffering man that he is. Maybe it is time to bury the hatchet and actual deal with this. If nothing else, it'll result in Steve being less defensive around Eddie when everyone hangs out, like for movie night or BBQs. Also, he knows that Dustin will never let him know another day of peace once he learns that Eddie and Steve don't get along as well as he wants them to so he says, "Listen, I think we've got some shit to hash out, or whatever, so that should probably be done or, like, things are going to be weird when we all hang out, but I can't do that right now, man. So, stay or go, just make that game happen at noon. I'm going to stay up here."

Eddie nods, weirdly sullen and quiet again, as he says, "Yeah. Umm, maybe after the game? If you're feeling up to it."

"Sure. After."

Eddie raps his knuckles against the wall behind him twice before pushing off and heading back towards the stairs. He pauses to look over his shoulder and say, "If you wanna watch, or listen in, or something, I don't think anyone will mind." And then he's heading down the stairs.

Retreating back to his room, Steve tosses the book onto his bed before flopping face first next to it. He groans into his comforter before reaching for the book. He props himself up on his elbows and stares down at the cover before opening it to see Christopher's handwriting on the inside cover.

It's been years since he thought about Christopher and even longer since he's laid eyes on the books. He was so sure his mom had just gotten rid of them. All this time, they'd been right where he left them, shoved just far enough back to be out of sight on the shelf. His last link to Christopher.

That's not true, Steve scolds himself. His cousins, Amber and Robert, are still alive and in Washington. His grandparents still live on that farm in Michigan. Steve just hasn't seen them since the funeral.

He hadn't gone back to the farm the summer after freshman year, or any year since. His parents thought he was old enough to stay home for a whole month in the summer alone now, instead of paying to ship him off to his grandparents. Steve's old enough now to know that was why he'd spent a month every year out on the farm; so his parents could go off on longer work trips. Once they'd decided Steve was old enough to stay alone for the summer, that quickly reached other seasons and by the time Steve was a junior, the were gone more than they were home.

He doesn't even remember when he last spoke to them in person. He thinks the last phone call was right after Starcourt. It was just to make sure Steve got to job hunting, since his place of employment had burned down and the bills wouldn't pay themselves. Which is true. He doesn't have to pay rent, but all the utilities are in his name now.

Jesus, he doesn't want to be thinking about them.

He goes back to the book, flipping through the pages absently. Halfway through the book he finds a couple folded pieces of paper tucked close to the spine. He doesn't have to open them to know exactly what they are.

It's the character sheets he'd made.

He closes the book back atop them and rolls over to face his ceiling. He wants to call Robin, but the phones are downstairs and he doesn't want to go down there just yet. He also kinda wants to cry. To get rid of all these emotions about Christopher, and Freshman First Day, and Eddie.

Fucking Eddie. Who haunts Steve's thoughts more than he'd like because despite the grudge Steve has been holding, Eddie has been fun to be around and so good with the kids, especially Dustin. Fuck, after having watched Dustin break down when they thought he was dead- but he'd had a pulse. It was weak but it was there.

After Eddie'd been cleared of the charges and the months rolled on into summer, they'd spent lots of time together as a group. Steve will admit he tried to avoid Eddie as best he could (he knows he's petty, okay) but could still see how he blended smoothly into their group.

If this Eddie had been the one he met on Freshman First Day, instead of the dick that mocked him, they might very well be friends now.

That's the crux of it all, Steve thinks. That he wouldn't mind being friends with Eddie if not for that bottled up grudge he'd been holding onto. He can't bring himself to let it go and Steve's not even sure why. Thoughts and feelings aren't something Steve processes quickly, and it usually helps to talk it out with Robin. She lets him stumble through his thoughts, and doesn't mock him for messing up, or mixing up, words.

Goddammit, if he's really going to try talking this out with Eddie, he's going to have be open and honest and maybe a little vulnerable and he doesn't know if he can do that.

But he'll have to. For better or worse, he can't just keep Eddie at arms length. They need to either come to the conclusion that they can be friends, or not, and then go from there. (Also, he knows that Dustin will never let him know another day of peace once he learns that Eddie and Steve don't get along as well as he wants them to.)

In the end, Steve's not sure how long he just stares up at the ceiling but a sudden shout breaks him from his trance. It sounded like Dustin. Hellfire must have started.

Steve leaves his room to go lean against the half wall of the hallway, so he could look down to the dining table where everyone has gathered to play. No one notices him, so Steve sinks to the floor and turns, so he can lean against the wall, closes his eyes, and listens in.

The room below is filled with noise. Shouts of excitement, and groans of pain, and sighs of relief. Dustin yells at his dice when it rolls a Nat 1. Mike curses up a storm over a barely missed perception check that makes the party fall into a surprise round. He hears Lucas whoop happily and then what sounds like him taking several victory laps around the table.

He used to be an imaginative kid, able to easily conjure castle, and knights, and dragons in his mind's eye. Listening to Eddie describe a new location, or NPC, or monster makes it easy to bring that part of himself back. Eddie is descriptive and uses so many voices that Steve would be embarrassed to even attempt. But because Eddie is being descriptive, so is everyone else at the table. Erica has adopted an accent of some sort for her character. Dustin and Will go into great detail describing what they want their character to do. The older members of Hellfire do the same, and one of them is using an Irish accent that if he used while talking to Steve, he'd would think it was his first language.

Steve's not sure how long he sat there, long enough that they've taken a snack break and are back at it again, before he decides he might as well watch, too. He gets up and goes downstairs. There's a pause at the table when he wonders in and plops down on the couch. He makes eye contact with Eddie and offers a small half smile. Eddie grins back, and starts back into the game, pulling everyone's focus.

Watching is interesting. He gets to see the Party jab at each other, or lean over and whisper about something. It's nice, to see them being kids. Having fun.

They end around five and Steve is surprised at how quickly five hours had passed.

"So, Steve, how was watching your first DnD game?" Dustin asks, pausing on his way to the door to do so.

Steve considers teasing him, but he goes for honesty instead. "Pretty interesting. It might not be my last time observing. I gotta see you get killed sometime, right?"

"Rude, Steve. Rude," Dustin is grinning though.

"Tell your mom hi for me, and let me know when she's making pork chops again. I'd like to crash that dinner."

Dustin rolls his eyes and shakes his head but he hugs Steve before leaving. Between all the older Hellfire members, they all have rides home that aren't Steve or Eddie.

Speaking of the latter, he's slowly packing things away at the table. Clearly killing time so it won't look like he's intentionally staying after everyone's gone.

Soon, the house is empty again.

"So, I'm not sure... how to start this conversation," Eddie admits to the silence. He's still at the table, standing behind where he was previously sitting, fiddling with a die. "But, I'm sorry. For that day. You were right, you know? When you said I was lashing out at you first."

"Thanks. For the apology," Steve stands from the couch and moves to the table, toying with the tablecloth instead of looking at Eddie. "I, uhh, I'm not sure where to go from here, either? I spent such a long time angry at you. For pointing out all the things I'm bad at in front of everyone there. For making me feel like an idiot."

"I know. I'm sorry."

Now Steve looks up at Eddie. "You say that, but like, why? Are you sorry because what you did was shitty, or because you want to be my friend now?"

Eddie blinks, apparently thrown by Steve's question.

"Because, like, you were pretty dismissive of Lucas before Spring Break and he helped save your life. So, it's like, are you okay with being shitty if the people you hurt aren't people you like? 'Cause I used to be that way, and I'm not going to be friends with someone who is."

"Yeah, no, you're right," Eddie nods. "For all that I scream about conformity, and how stupid it is, I've been rather quick to dismiss everyone outside my own... group. I held rather close to that nerds verses jocks crap for too long. Lucas is a jock, but he's also a nerd, and so very loyal to his friends. And you- you're really fucking awesome."

"I am," Steve interrupts with a cheeky grin.

"Ass. But yeah, you're pretty awesome, and I've been feeling all fucked up today because, we could have been friends, couldn't we? In high school. If I'd just let you take the damn flier and kept my mouth shut."

"Hey, that's not all on you," Steve says. "I would have still joined the basketball team, and the swim team. And, like, I was so desperate for any shred of attention from my parents that I would never have picked Hellfire over sports meetups. I could have joined and still ended up a bully by sophomore year."

"Well, I didn't help-"

"I made those choices, Eddie. And it doesn't matter because it's in the past. So, like, we can just move forward. Start over, or whatever."

Eddie looks him up and down before giving one sharp nod, then breaking out into a wide grin, sticking his hand out for a handshake. "Hi. Name's Eddie Munson."

Steve laughs, reaching out to shake Eddie's hand. "Steve Harrington."

"Great, pleasure to meet you. Do you wanna hang out? We can play 20 questions. Get to know each other."

"Sure," Steve chuckles, extracting his hand from Eddie's. "Let me order some pizza first."

First time hanging out with Eddie alone. Guess they'll find out if they can be friends after all.

[rogueddie]

part one

Eddie is sure that something big happened, something that he missed. Steves explanation sounded far too simple for the way the atmosphere seems to swell, thick and suffocating, whenever El or Steve enter the room.

Whatever it is that the two said, the tension has started causing him issues.

Dustin and Lucas keep leaning close to each other, whispering, making wild hand gestures during DnD- which would be fine, if he weren't giving a speech which involved very important plot details.

He waits until they finish for the night, everyone starting to gather their things, before speaking up.

"Henderson," Eddie says, loud enough that Dustin flinches, jerking up to look at him with wide eyes. "Stay here a moment."

"Uh, wh- why?"

"Because I said so." He raises an eyebrow at everyone else, who's stopped and just watching them. "What? Scram!"

"Give him hell," Gareth nudges him, grinning.

Jeff quickly shoves him towards the door, glancing at Eddie before following him. "Take it easy on him, ok?"

"Yeah, yeah," Eddie waves him off. It just makes Jeff snort, playfully shoving him, before jogging after Gareth.

Mike hesitates, but quickly scrams when he sees the look on Eddies face.

"What's up?" Dustin asks. He tries to shift, to look casual.

"What the hell is going on? You've all been weird about Steve and El for a whole week."

"Oh... we just... had a misunderstanding."

"Uh-huh," Eddie crosses his arms. "About what?"

"Nothing."

"Dustin."

"Alright! It's- we all make jokes about Steve being stupid and he told us to cut it out."

"Yeah, Steve told me that much. It was upsetting him or some shit. That's not everything that happened though, is it?"

"Maybe you should ask Steve, he's your-"

"Kid, so help me, I will murder your little Elf. Start talking."

"Dude!"

"Talk."

"Alright, fine! Geez. It was... we joked about it, we knew he wasn't upset by any of that. And, yeah, we were right. It didn't upset Steve- it upset El."

"What the hell were you saying?" Eddie frowns. He hasn't spoken to El much but, even with such short interactions, he's sure that it would take something big to effect her. She's tough as nails.

"Nothing bad! It was the same shit we always say! But it's fine. She spoke to Steve for a bit and then she explained to us why it was upsetting her. She said something about how she knows we aren't bullies because we're not 'sad assholes' like you said."

Eddie snorts. That had been a fun day, despite El having to relive the shit she dealt with her bullies in California. He'd made her laugh and, after she went home, Steve had... well.

"So what's with the tension?"

"Mike doesn't think it's a big deal because they're just jokes." Dustin shrugs. "He's not wrong."

Eddies eyebrows shoot up, incredulous. "'He's not wrong?' You're fucking with me, right? You're not serious."

"They both know we don't mean it!"

"Do they?"

"Max asked; El knows we don't think she's dumb."

"What about Steve?"

That makes him falter.

"What about Steve?" Dustin clears his throat. "He's not upset by the jokes, he told us that."

"That's not what I was asking and you know that."

"Well, yeah, but... he'd be upset if he thought we meant it... right?"

"You're a fucking idiot, Henderson."

[thefoxtrot008]

The Readers Blog

Here is part 4 of the dialogue prompts! Just had a bit of inspiration for a new story, so there are a LOT OF THEM. Enjoy! :)

"So, who do we have then, if they're dead?"

"I've heard that expression before."

"Is that a threat?"

"These concerned parties need to have themselves heard otherwise I can't give you clearance."

"How uncomfortable are we talking?"

"He's a nice kid, love. Not too bright though."

"It was easy. Almost too easy."

"I'm a very busy woman. Okay? Next time, make an appointment."

"Get straight to the point detective."

"This is quite an establishment that you've got going here."

"Well, we both know that's bullshit."

"Give me one good reason as to why I should do that."

"You should let them go because it's the right thing to do, but I doubt that means anything to you."

"And that's how you did it."

"You come into my facility, you lie to me, you make threats and you low ball me? Please, I've got better things to do than to waste my time with you. Get out. Get out now!"

"You don't get it do you?"

"How could we have messed this up this badly?"

"Do I look like a person that would do that sort of thing?"

"We got away with it!"

"They don't have any evidence? No fingerprints? Nothing?"

"We don't even know why they were attacked."

"And no one is asking that question!"

"I mean, I'm being framed here, but it's not like anyone cares."

"And yet, I'm not allowed to see my client."

"This is a wrong accusation."

"You have a witness?" "I do."

"Did you see that video?"

"And there's always that one family member that shows up late for everything."

"Not to worry. I have a backup plan."

"I'm going to keep asking, until you give me a good answer."

"It's because it seems like this whole universe is against me!"

"You ain't even from here are you?" "All you've done is lie to these good people."

"You can't tell me who I can and can't sleep with. You are not my mother!" "I might as well be."

"We're not taking any visitors at the moment."

"Let me see what I can do. The full works. Make some phone calls, talk to people. You know, stuff that you don't do."

"I saved your skin here, let's not forget."

"You know, maybe we should run. Pack up our things and go."

"It's not against you or anything."

"It was too late. They had gotten to me first after you left."

"Now, they're after me. Not you darling."

"I'll go!" (everyone: "NO!")

"Oh, I'm not ignoring what happened between us earlier. I'm using it to my advantage here."

"You do understand that if they catch you, they will kill you."

"I'll be down the hall if you need anything."

"You won't do any of that."

"Go after her. GO!"

"I hate seeing you like this... so, we're going to do you a solid mate."

"Those traitors! I'll get you back for this!"

"You still remember how I take my tea?" "Of course, I do. It's you."

"Why'd you disappear on me, all of those years ago?" "It's not that simple. If it's any consolation, it didn't have anything to do with you." "That makes me feel loads better. But it's still not an explanation!"

"This calls for a celebration!"

"It'll be an in and out job, love. I'll be back before you know it."

"Has it ever occurred to you that maybe she doesn't want to be found?"

"It's none of your business!"

"Oh shit, I grabbed the wrong one." "It better be a damn good funeral."

"I am... a freaking genius! LETS GO!!!"

"What kind of organization are you running here?!"

"I am asking you, because I know that you can handle it."

"I want to read the card."

"You didn't have to make a big deal out of it."

"Give me the keys, I'm leaving."

"You know what?! Maybe I should take the transfer!"

"Can I say something?!" "NO!!"

"Waste of time, huh? Guess who got these documents, from him? Oh, wait. It was me. All me! You're freaking welcome."

"Cancel everything! I have an important announcement to make!"

"I want to do it on my terms." "I was thinking about this earlier."

"We're considering all options." "Like what? Like handing over the kid?" "I told you. We're considering every avenue."

"This is where it all starts." "I haven't told them yet."

"We did give you a bit of a warning."

"You knew?! All of you knew? How come she didn't tell me about it?!"

"Because we'd knew you'd react like this, that's why!" "Fine then. Let's go the extra mile, shall we? I forbid you from seeing him!" "You can't do that!" "I believe I just did!"

"Don't you have anything to say about this?" "I think he's got a point."

"Oh, sure! Way to side with him."

"I should be able to make that decision, I'm older than you!" "Not by much though."

"I can have it reversed if I need to."

"And that's a major if okay? All of this isn't going to be enough. We need hard evidence! Not something that you stole!"

"Way to piss her off man."

"You really have to tell that story again?"

"That was so rude of me. I do apologize."

"She's listening to that song again! It's been nonstop for hours! Make it stop!" "Go talk to her!" "What do you expect me to say, huh?"

"I think you're making too much of this. You do have a tendency to overthink." "I do not. Okay, fine, maybe I do."

"Hopefully it gets a little bit better for you."

"I know. I'm just teasing." "Welcome to my world."

"Yea, but I didn't want to see that." "He didn't seem to have a problem with it."

____________________________________________________________

And... that's a wrap! :) For now at least!

[merci-bitch]

My Sweet Little One part II

Rose The Hat x fem!reader

Warning(s): swearing, slight abuse, PDA? 

Words: 2,5k

A/N: It has been quite a while. Hasn’t it? Haha. Well there might be a part 3 to this. It’s not as long as the first part which is 8k, and I have no idea how to make links so sadly I can’t link it here. ;/ . Hopefully there will more stories coming soon!

I made Y/N mine, alright. And everyone knew it, for sure. The next night she laid in my bed, I made her scream my name until her vocal chords were raw and made sweat crack across her place physiognomy.

No one could have her body the way I do, specially that loathsome rube. But he doesn't matter now.' I told myself. Though I wanted to make him pay. Rip his heart out and eat it on a silver platter after making him after making him suffer. Who the hell does he think he is? Laying his hands on my Y/n. They might both be steamy but he should see me. Oh yes, I am a cathedral compared to his small amount of steam.

"Rosie?" Y/n's voice pulled me out of my self induced trance. "Yes love?" I hummed. "You were zoning off again. Is something the matter?" I loved hearing the sweetness in her voice. It was like music to my ears.

"No darling, I'm quite alright." I smiled and placed my lips against hers and gave her a soft kiss. 'If only she knew though.' I thought to myself but shoved that aside for the moment. I could feel her soft hands gently caressing my bare skin and moved closer to her. Normally I preferred being the big spoon but on this moment, I didn't quite mind. She was home now and has been for quite a few weeks but still, I missed her.

"You're sure?" I nodded and ran my hands through Y/n's hair. "You're so pretty. You know that right?" She nodded and I smirked. "There is no one quite like you." Y/n's cheeks flushed cherry red and I chuckled. "No shame, darling. I only speak the truth."

"I know." She gave me a small smile that made me swell up inside. "Have you thought about my offer?" Y/n let out a sigh and I sat up. "I have but-"

"But what?" I tried my hardest not to sound angry. "When you stabbed me before, you told me it was for steam?" I nodded cordially. "Is that...what you guys eat?"

"Does it matter?" I expected to have her argue with me a little bit but surprisingly she didn't. Which I was thankful for. I took Y/n's hands gently in my own and kissed them. "Look, I know it's hard for you to wrap your head around but their pain is our gain. Don't you want to have a life with me? Unconditional bliss?"

She looked down as she slowly sat up and started fumbling with her hands. I wanted to say things, but I didn't want her to run away again. I didn't want to lose her again. She was mine, and only mine.

—— You don't know what it's like, not knowing who you are. To have lived in the shadows and to have travelled this far. Now I've seen a flashes of fire and echos of screams. But I still have faith, faith that someday my memories will come back.

In my dreams, it's all real. And my heart has so much to reveal. And my dreams seems to say, 'don't be afraid to go on, don't give up hope, come what may.' I know it will all come back! One day!

In my dreams shadows call. There's a light at the end a hall. Then my dreams fade away, but I know it will all come back one day. I just remember, rain against the windows. Sheets upon a bed. Terrifying nurses whispering overhead.

It was all strange. Rose, everyone. They say I was found on the side of the road. It had recently rained. In the darkness and cold with the wind in the trees. A girl with no name, and no memories but these above. I don't know a thing before that. Traveling the back roads, sleeping in the wood. I was always taking what I needed, working when I could. Keeping up my courage, foolish as it seems.

In my dreams I've always dreamed of a city. I dream of a city beyond all compare. Is it Paris? Paris... A beautiful river, a bridge by a scare and I hear a simple voice whisper, 'I'll meet you right there in Paris.' Paris.

Dancing bears, painted wings. Things I almost remember, and a song someone sings. It's almost December. Once upon a December. Someone holds me safe and warm. Horses prance through a silver storm. Figures dancing gracefully and across my memory.

Far away, long ago. Glowing dim as an ember and things my heart used to know and things it yearns to remember. And a song someone used to sing.

Heart don't fail me now and courage don't desert me. Don't turn back now that we're here. People have always said, life is full of choices and they aren't wrong but they never mentioned fear. Or how the world can seem so vast. On a simple journey to the past.

Somewhere down this road. I know someone true is waiting. Years of dreams just can't be wrong! Someone's arms will open wide and I'll be safe and wanted. Finally a place where I belong. Well, starting now I'm learning fast! On my journey to my past.

Home, love and family. There has to be a time where I had them too. I wouldn't be complete until I find you. But always one step at a time. One hope, then another. Who knows where this road may go? I wanna go back to who I was. On to find my future. There are things my heart still needs to know. Yes! Let this be some kind of sign and let this road be mine. Let it lead me to my past, and bring me home. At last!

—

"So, when the fuck was you gonna tell me."

"Hm? Tell you what my dear."

"Cut the sweet act Rose."

"What's wrong with you? Did they tease you again? You want tea?"

"Oh fuck you."

"Watch it."

"Watch it?! You have some fucking nerve Rose."

"Excuse me?"

"You heard me. The fuck did you think was gonna happen?"

"Seriously, what do you mean Y/N."

"Did you think I was gonna forget your words? Think I was gonna forget how useless and worthless you called me?"

"Y/N, I-"

"Shut it. I know exactly what you said, I'm not stupid or will I ever fall for some cover up you're calling this. I was happy without you!"

"You would never survive without me!"

"I did perfectly well for 10 fucking years Rose!"

"You call that happy?! With that Danny? You call that happy Y/N?"

"He loved me! He took care of me! More then you'd ever done, he took me for what I was. He picked up the pieces you broke."

"You better watch it. I don't mind killing you myself."

"See, this is exactly where you and I are different. I spend years not fitting in but thinking it was fine. Cause you were 'there' and cuddled me. Did you ever really love me? Cause you're blaming me for everything here, when it actually was you who fucked it up."

"I fucked it up?! You were the one who was so fucking ungrateful!"

"Ungrateful?! I have a fucking soul!"

"No, you don't! Cause you fucking sold it to the devil. You're not human. We turned you Y/N!"

"Excuse me what?"

"What?"

"No, don't change subject. What did you say?"

"Nothing."

"Did you fucking turn me without me saying you could?! Rose what the fuck!"

"What, you're mine. Just had to claim you. You'll be fine."

"Fine?! I don't wanna feed of dead kids Rosie!"

"They're actually quite delicious."

"You're fucking sick."

"Didn't stop you from fucking me."

"I didn't really have a choice."

"I didn't fucking rape you."

"Nah, it felt like it."

"You screamed my name out of pleasure."

"How come you were so sure of that?"

"I saw it, I saw your mind."

"What if that was just for play?"

"Oh, fuck you."

"I'd kill you if you tried."

"Oh, sweetheart. I'd like to see you try."

"Come at me."

"You can't be serious."

"Come kill me Rose."

"No."

"Coward."

"You're a bitch. A fucking bitch."

"Yet you put up with me for years. Took me back in when I was vulnerable. Loved me, well. Kind of. You held me close to you. Favorited me. So technically, I was your bitch."

"Exactly. You're my bitch."

"I was, not anymore."

"You'll always be my bitch. You're so weak for me, nothing will change that."

"Rose-"

"Begging already? Hm. Get on your knees."

"What?"

"Now!"

"Never."

"Get on your fucking knees before I make you."

"Make me then."

"You're playing with fire Y/N. I fucking hate you."

"Yeah, yeah. We've all heard that. How about something new?"

Before I knew it, her hand was wrapped around my throat. Holding me up in the air. Not a single piece of happiness or softness in her eyes. It was just dark. Her whole face was filled with anger. The veins in her throat showed as she strained. Her jaw clenched. Her hand squeezing harder around my throat. More and more air was ripped from my throat.

"You'll learn your fucking place. You disgraceful little piece of shit."

Her fingernails started to dig into the skin of my neck and my vision started to blacken out. Clawing at her hand. Choking on whatever air that was left in my lungs.

"R-Rosie-"

"Hm? Can't really hear you, my dear."

Her hand tightened even more and I felt my limbs go lump. Everything going dark.

-

"I don't know Abra. She's been gone for so long. She was missing when I came back from the bathroom at the cinema. You haven't seen anything?"

"No, I've been trying. It's like Rose is cutting her off from us."

"I just hope she's alright. She doesn't deserve all this."

"I know, but we'll find her."

—

"Sweetheart? Hey, wake up."

I felt someone slap my cheek. Groaning in pain, moving my head away. Slowly opening my eyes.

"Rose?"

"Yes, I'm right here."

"What happened?"

"My dear child, you passed out. You had a nightmare from sleeping and got up and started crying. Then you just dropped."

"Really? I don't remember."

"Oh, don't worry. I've got you."

Rose put her arms around me and pulled the covers over us, giving my forehead a kiss. I couldn't put my thought to it. Was that really what happened? I shook my head and snuggles close to Rose. Breathing in her scent. Relaxing. Smiling softly and looking up at her.

"What? What are you smiling about."

"Nothing."

"Come on, I can see there's something."

"I just -"

"Yes?"

"I love you, Rosie."

"I love you too Y/N."

—

"Rose? Is this really how it has to go?"

"Yes, my dear. Now come on. Stab her."

"I-I don't know, it's just a child."

"What have I told you before?"

"I-, their pain, our gain."

"That's it. Now come, feed your family."

Rose's hands were on my waist, her nose brushing against the back of my neck. I slowly raised the knife in the air. Feeling a sort of deja vu. Had I done this before? I couldn't have. Despite the child's cries, pleas and begging Rose was right. Their pain was our gain. I had to do this to feed the family. The true knot was my family.

Muttering a soft 'sorry' before stabbing the child. Stabbing it over and over again. Hearing both Rose's and Crow's laughter behind me. I felt angry for some reason, the child in front of me was the beat for my anger. The piece to take out all the unknown anger. Again and again. Until there was nothing left. Dropping the knife, shaking.

"You did so great, look at all that steam! Well last for weeks! If not even months. Good girl."

Rose gave me a wet kiss and stroked my cheek.

"Rosie?"

"Yes, my love?"

"Have I done this before?"

"What? Stabbing a child?"

"Yeah, I got like a deja vu."

"Well, haven't we all wished to kill children?"

Her carefree laughter filled the air. It didn't make any sense, but it had to.

"Yeah, I guess so."

"Don't be so sad now, poppet. You did well."

"It just feels weird. I was a child too once."

"We all were. But now we are adults, we are the true knot. We live as more powerful then pathetic rubes. You said so yourself."

"I did?"

"Right you did."

"Oh, I can't remember much."

Rose stroked my cheek again and pulled me against her. Rubbing my back and watched the moonlight with me. It was silent. Was it nice? Was it confusing? Was it awkward?

"I just, this doesn't feel right."

"What do you mean?"

"It's like I've been walking, but with my face turned to the sun. This weight on my shoulders. And I feel as if I need to run. I do what I can to please you and the others, I just feel like an outsider."

"This is your home, can't you hear freedom calling? Calling you to stay. Don't you feel it in your bones? You belong here."

"In the morning before the sun starts shining, we gotta start moving again, can I drive with you?"

"Always."

—

"So I'm gonna stand up, and take my people with me. Together we are going to our brand new home. Far across the river. Do you hear freedom calling? Calling you to answer their prayer."

"That's what you got?"

"Yes, it was all I could find out."

"It's not really helpful."

"I know, I don't know what's going on. Before it was so easy to track her."

—

"I go to prepare a place for you."

Rose watched you sleep. She knew it wouldn't be long until your memories would come back. Her and Crow had been talking about what to do with you. She didn't want to kill you. She did love you, but if she had to she would kill you. You were steamy but she didn't know if it was that good. She had only tasted it once, but it was only little bit.

It had tasted like flowers. For some reason each time Rose would think about it. She would feel this, this heavy feeling in her chest. She didn't know what it was. It couldn't be guilt, could it? No. Of course not. Rose The Hat never had guilt. She was a strong a confident woman. Powerful. The queen bitch of castle hell.

Rose O'Hara knew guilt, knee pain and specially weakness. Rose The Hat could never dream of getting on her knees for anyone.

If she had to kill the one thing she loved. She fucking would.

[imagines-by-a-typical-fangirl]

The Perfect Bad Boy (Pt. 14 of 18)

Pairing: Billy Hargrove X Reader

Word count: 3 K

Summary: Working as a lifeguard in the Hawkins Community Pool, you try to fit in after moving from New York. Things were going pretty well when you notice you've been under someone's stare. Billy Hargrove, Hawkins' bad boy, has been staring at you since day one. You never intended to have anything to do with him, judging by the reputation he has. But Billy won't leave you alone, determined to show you his feelings are different this time...

As if your heart flooding you with confusing feelings wasn't enough, there are weird, strange animals lurking in the woods... But those have to be just part of the wild live of the woods surrounding Hawkins... Right?

<- Previous part (13)

Next part (15) ->

{Stranger Things Masterlist}

×

Hunt and Destroy

“Alright... A lot of new words and names...” You mutter, looking at the floor between your feet. It's late now, and Eleven has been talking for over an hour. The story is long and you had to stop her to ask a few questions. More than a few, actually. Everything sounds like a very strange story, the weirdest, something nobody could come up with. To prove it, Eleven turned the TV on with her mind, skipping through the channels before turning it off again. But you didn't need any proof. You know what you saw and it was very, very real. “Upside down, Demodog, Demodorden...”

“Demogorgon. With a G.” Dustin corrects you, smiling. How can he be smiling?

“Demogorgon, ok.” Nodding, you take a deep breath and stand up. “So... What's the plan?” You ask, pacing around the living room.

“Well, we need to gather the whole party for this,” Max says and the others nod.

“I'll talk to my mom and Hopper,” Jonathan speaks out. “We have to do this as soon as possible so... tomorrow.”

“Yeah. Can it be here?” You're not sure if you can make this demand, but right now, being anywhere else after dark is too much. The sunlight is your protection since it's deadly to the... Demo-something. It burns them. They like it cold, said Eleven.

“Sure.” Jonathan answers and you offer him a small smile in return. “Could it be by five? Before the sunset.”

“Yeah. We can sneak out of the pool again.” It shouldn't be a problem, and if Anthony is there, you could pretend to be sick.

“Tomorrow is our day off.” Billy reminds and you take a deep breath, running a hand through your hair. You completely forgot that.

“By the morning them. Maybe we'll get something figured out we can start working on through the rest of the day.” Mike suggests and the whole party agrees. “We should get going though. It's late.” Mike gets up from his spot on the floor.

“Wait.” Mike can't possibly be for real now. “You're not gonna head home now. With those things out there.” They're getting closer to the town, and it means they'll hang around all night. “It's dangerous. You should stay.”

Most of them agree easily, chattering among them. Max seems excited, but Mike exchanges a look with Nancy. “I don't think our mother would let us crash at Billy's place.” She says with an apologetic look.

“Oh.” You know why. Billy told you where he was going to when the Mind Flayer almost got him... Or better saying, who he was going to meet. Mrs. Wheeler. You did felt weird back then, and it sure makes you feel weird now, but whatever he did before, you left it where it belongs. In the past. “Just call and tell her you'll be crashing at my place.”

“Yeah, man. C'mon. Slumber party.” Dustin cheers, smiling, and once again you can't understand why they aren't terrified. Guess they're just used to it. But how can someone get used to monsters lurking around?

“Alright, then.” Mike agrees, making his way to the phone.

“They didn't get it yet,” Billy whispers in your ear.

“They didn't get it.” Repeating, you wrap your arms around his neck. “I'm really trying not to freak out right now.” The words come out of your mouth, rolling out your tongue.

“Let's go to the bedroom so you can rest and we can talk.”

“Ok...”

“Alright. It's done.” Mike comes back with his sister, gesturing at the front door. “Should we get going?”

You and Billy exchange a look. They really didn't get it. “Uhm... So that's it, guys.” You start, taking Billy's hand and pulling him with you. “You can crash either here or Max's room. First to wake up makes breakfast.”

“Wait. You made me lie to my mom?” Mike asks as you move further into the hall.

“(Y/N) is living here.” Max ends the mystery, and you can feel her massive eye roll.

“Holy shit.” You hear Dustin and Steve mumbling as you get inside the room.

Billy lets you shower first, and as you wait for him, you look through his college books. Everything seems very complicated. Your fingers run through one of the pages, taking in the many numbers, but not really reading anything. Your mind is too far away right now. The scene keeps playing back, over and over. The... Demodog, as the kids call it, its face opening up, the guttural noises it made. You wish it was just a nightmare, but everything seems very, very real.

Billy's sudden touch makes you suck in a sharp breath, shaking a little. “Sorry. Didn't mean to scare you.” The feeling is quickly replaced by the usual warmth he makes you feel. Safety and comfort.

“It's ok, I'm just... How is it possible that the kids seem to be so fine with it?” Turning around, you lay your head on his chest as he pulls you close.

“They've been through a lot. They know how to deal with it and you don't have to participate if you don't want to.” Billy touches your face, fingers caressing the soft skin of your jaw. “I'll do anything to keep you safe, you know that right?”

You do. But staying out would not only make you a coward, but it would mean one less person to help them do whatever they're planning to. And, whatever this thing is, it had a part in messing with Billy's life. With Max's life, and all her friends. It's kind of personal. And, if Billy is in danger, you want to be there to make sure you'll do anything to save him. “I want to do it. I just need time to... Process everything.”

“You won't be alone. And I'm not talking only for myself, but for everyone else too.”

“Ok.”

“Now come. You need to get some sleep.” Billy pulls you to the bed, and, instead of laying beside him as usual, you decide to crawl on top of him.

“Am I crushing you?” You ask as you lay your head on his chest, smiling to feel his strong arms around you.

“Haven't you noticed the weight I can lift? You're nothing compared to it.”

Closing your eyes, you feel as he places a kiss on the top of your head. You've never been like that with Billy, literally on top of him, and it's good. Today, more than ever, you need to feel safe. Protected. And he's the only one who makes you feel this way. “I'm so happy we don't have to go to work tomorrow.”

“Me too.”

Pulling yourself up, you move upwards until your face is close to his. “Do you think the kids are talking about us?” Despite your mind being apparently stuck reminiscing the same moment, the terror in your chest, you try to change the subject. Hopefully, it'll keep you from having nightmares tonight.

“I'm sure of it.” As he speaks, a noise of glass shattering reaches us. “Max!” Billy yells at the top of his lungs, startling you. “What the hell!”

“Stop yelling.” You giggle, playfully slapping his shoulder.

“Just a glass, Billy,” Maxine answers from somewhere in the house.

“Better clean this shit up!” He shouts again.

“Shut up!” You whine, lowering yourself on him a little. “Or else I'll have to make you and it won't be nice.”

Billy raises an eyebrow, that usual smirk making its way to his lips. “Oh, and how exactly wouldn't it be nice?”

Yeah, you didn't really give much thought before making the threat. “Okay then.” Smirking, you close the distance between you until your lips are brushing on his before you sit up abruptly, a hand covering his mouth. “See? I told you it wouldn't be nice.” He opens his mouth under your hand, and you feel his teeth biting your skin. “Billy!” You complain, taking your hand away from his mouth. “I can't believe you bit me, you jerk.”

“You got what you deserved.” He suddenly pulls you down, making you lay next to him. “Now, quit playing around and sleep, princess. Tomorrow will be a long day.”

“Kiss me goodnight then. To keep the bad dreams away.” You ask him softly, melting into the slow, warm kiss he gives you.

It doesn't help with the nightmares though. Twice that night you wake up, a breath caught in your throat. You struggle not to let Billy notice, snuggling closer to him.

You're more than happy when morning finally comes. The house is so damn loud, and breakfast in a mess. You like it though, the craziness distracting you from yesterday's events. The rest of the party is here by nine, thanks to the urgency of the matter. And then, after everyone is fed up and the dishes are clean, which took half an hour since nobody wanted to do it, everyone sits in the living room to talk.

And you just can't seem to keep up with it. The boys speak fast, Hopper yells, Joyce tries to calm him down, he argues with Eleven, which is like his daughter, you got that, and then he argues with Mike. Nancy and Jonathan always check with each other before saying something, Steve always finds the flaws on the kids' plans, pointing out the many ways it could go wrong, and Dustin often gets into some kind of argument with him. There are a hundred different ways things could go wrong. A thousand ways you could die. Running a hand through your hair, you hold onto Billy's biceps, laying your head on his shoulder. You're the only one who didn't say anything since the conversation started. There's just nothing you can help them with, you'll just stick up to whatever plan they have.

What they know for sure that these Demodogs are here because some of them must have been left behind in some kind of incubation period until it started growing again.

“So that's it. Hunt and destroy.” Lucas says, nodding to himself.

“Yes. We don't know exactly how much time we have until they start going full Demogorgon, so we should start acting now.” Mike states. “Immediately.”

As if something was lit up, everyone starts moving. “My place in one hour, everyone,” Hopper says and suddenly the crowd disperses, the house once again silent.

You're still in the same place you were, on the couch, legs crossed, eyes on the floor. “Hey. You ok?”

“Yeah.” Taking a deep breath, you stand up. “So. Hopper's place. One hour.” Saying this more to yourself than to him, you get up and pace around the living room. “Should we take the baseball bat?”

“Steve has one far more fun than that. You'll like it.” You can tell Billy is keeping his voice nice and soft, trying not to push you over the edge with everything that's going on. “(Y/N), you don't have to go. You know that, right?”

“I do. But I'm going anyway.” Walking over him, you tiptoe to place a kiss on his lips. “Those kids are so brave. I don't want them to think I'm the weak link.”

“Alright, but we stick together. No exceptions.”

“I agree.” It does make you feel a lot better.

In the next hour, you and Billy shower and get ready. You make sure to wear short jeans and a light shirt so you won't feel too hot. The plan is trying to find the Demodog's nest. This part has to be made during the daylight, to make sure no attacks will happen, so you have no choice but to walk around the woods under the sun. Billy makes sure to shove a lot of water on his backpack, using literally every bottle he found in the house. And Max gathers some snacks for the day.

You reach Hopper's place at the same time Nancy, Jonathan, and Mike does, realizing it's also Joyce's place. The party is gathered in front of the house, a big map of Hawking on the ground. Beside it, a pile of some random stuff that you guess will be the... Weapons you'll use. Just in case.

Hopper is the one to assign everyone a place to start, the area they'll have to cover, and where they'll have to stop. There are lines drawn over the map, and you hope Billy has everything memorized because you don't even know where is where. Then, the groups are separated. Billy of course says he'll take you and Max. And Lucas, much to his dismay, will come along too. When people start taking stuff from the pile, you immediately get what Billy mentioned earlier. There's a baseball bat with nails on the top. Smiling, you take it.

“That's so badass.” You mutter, looking at Billy. “This will be my weapon of choice.”

“Hey. That's mine.” Steve exclaims, reaching out his hand.

“Not anymore, buddy.” You sass at him, swinging the bar and hitting the air.

“But–”

“She's good with the bat, trust me,” Maxine says and you nod. Some people have an interrogation on their faces, and Steve keeps staring at the three of you, as if waiting for further explanation.

“We have an inside joke.” Lowering the bat, you turn to look at Billy.

“Restricted to the Hargrove family,” Billy states, taking one the radios from the pile and starting the make his way to the car. “And Max.”

“But what about me?” You feel a little set aside by his affirmation, wondering what he meant. It's impossible that he's ignoring the fact that you were there that day. “I'm in the joke too.” Whining a little on purpose, you follow him.

“You still only notice half of things.” Billy winks at you as he gets inside the car, and after Max and Lucas get in the back seat, you get in as well. “I know you know what I meant.”

“Maybe I didn't.” Billy has this way with you. You were expecting the first sensations to fade, but they didn't. He still makes you nervous, the butterflies on your stomach doesn't seem to grow immune to him. And part of you is still scared of the things you think he means. You did got what he said, but it's safer to just pretend you didn't, right?

The short drive is filled with chattering. The kind of chattering you didn't want to hear since it's all about the Demothings. You stop by the woods, and Max and Lucas will be the ones responsible for the map since they have a compass.

And so the ‘hunting’ starts. You're glad it's not a real hunt though. You remember when you invited Billy for a trail with your friends, but walking through the woods feels different now. Before, you had only the normal wild animals to worry about, not some monsters that came out of the gates of hell. But you try to keep in mind that the sunlight means protection, so you'll safe. For now.

“Billy, can you make sure we'll have enough daylight to make the way back to the car?” You ask him, putting your hair up on a ponytail.

“I will, don't worry.” He moves closer, taking your hand in his. “We'll be ok. Just focus on trying to find anything unusual in the woods.”

“Sure.”

Billy doesn't let go of your hand until you stop to eat something. Lucas and Max start arguing a lot when you resume your walking, complaining about the directions. Billy is clearly pissed, not very fond of the idea of his little sister dating. It's cute the way he keeps staring at the young couple, paying attention to whatever they're saying. You wonder if Billy ever thought about having kids.

Wait. What the hell? Step back, you tell yourself. Too soon for that.

At some point, a fresh breeze starts blowing, and you couldn't be more thankful for it. Letting your hair down, you run a hand through it out of nervousness.

“I'm telling you, we have to go West now,” Lucas says.

“Yes. First West then North.” Maxine takes the map from his hands, taking a look at it. “It's obvious if you think about it. Just look. Try using your head for a moment.”

“Are you calling me dumb?”

“Yes!”

“Alright, both of you.” Billy intervenes, his voice with a tiny hint of anger. “Will you two make a goddman decision or will I have to?”

This will be interesting. Billy and you have been walking a couple of feet behind them, so as he moves ahead, you stand there, crossing your arms. The breeze brings a soft sound, that looks like the sound the pools make when it's windy. Following it, you spot water, only about ten feet away. Leaving the guys behind to their fights, you make your way there, making sure there are no big trees hiding you from their sight. When you get there, you bend down, putting one hand on the freshwater.

“(Y/N)!” It's Billy's usual yell, the one he always uses to scare the shit out of you. “Do you want to give me a heart attack?” When you turn around to look at him, he's already close by, Maxine and Lucas coming right after.

“Sorry, but I found this lake.”

“Lover's lake,” Max says, sitting down on a rock, eyes on the map.

“Lover's lake?” You repeat, crossing your arms and looking at Billy. “Why haven't you ever brought me here?” By the name, you think it would be a nice romantic date. And you remember by what you saw on the map, the lake is shaped like a heart, the reason for the name.

“Oh, you're new here. Sometimes it slips my mind.” He puts he bag down, safely away from where the small ripples reach. “People usually come here to... You know. So I thought that if I brought you and then you found out what really happens here you'd come to the wrong conclusion about my feelings for you.”

That's a very good explanation. And it makes you feel... Special. Different. “Thank you, then. For... Having this in mind.” As you speak, you take off your white shoes, all dusted by now.

“What are you doing?” He asks, an eyebrow raised when you look up at him, using his arm for balance to take off the other shoe.

“I'm using the Lover's Lake to something else than making out.” You start walking backwards, into the water.

“Whoa, look at what (Y/N)'s doing,” Lucas says, and you give them a glance. Max giggles, putting the map down.

“Try to drown Billy, would you?”

“I'll do my best.” When you stare back at Billy, he's already in the water.

You move back until your feet stop touching the bottom, so you start swimming further away. The freshwater is a blessing, washing the hot day from your skin. For a moment, you decide to leave the worries behind, just for a couple of minutes. Billy is quick to reach you, and you're suddenly aware of the kids staring. “We have an audience, keep that in mind.” You tell him when he pulls you close, strong arms encircling your waist.

“Were you ever kissed underwater?”

“No.” Your smirk matches his as you take a deep breath and push yourself down.

The kiss is a mess. You have to focus on holding your breath through the process, what makes you laugh, throwing bubbles on Billy's face. You manage to reach the bottom, your back hitting the rocks as Billy floats on top of you. But eventually, the oxygen you were saving is over, so you push him away and swim back up, laughing when you reach the surface.

“What a chaos.” You burst out when he comes back up as well. “We suck at underwater kisses.”

“I think I swallowed some water,” Billy says, coughing a little.

It only makes you laugh harder, removing the hair glued to your face. Swimming closer to him, you wrap your arms around his neck.

“Hey! Mr. and Mrs. Hargrove! Let's get moving!” Lucas shouts, making you roll your eyes.

You burst into laugh again when Billy flings you over his back, carrying you back to land.

And the walking restarts, with Max and Lucas constantly arguing and Billy trying to make them stop. The good thing is that it distracts you. And the bad part is that it distracts you from searching around for any signs of a Demothing nest. Your eyes scan through the woods, among the trees, looking for–.

“Holy shit!” Lucas exclaims and then he jolts away, running, followed by Max. You and Billy exchange a look before rushing after them.

Before you can ask what was that, you see it. A huge hole on the solid ground. It would fit a car in it. The thing goes down, in a slope, and then it keeps going until it makes a turn left. It's clear it doesn't belong to any kind of wild animal. It's not natural. A low, guttural low snarl reaches your ears, and you involuntary gives step back.

“Call them. Them then we found it.” Lucas says, taking a pencil and making a mark on the map.

The moment Max takes the small radio, you hear static. “Everyone listen up.” Steve says, more voices talking behind him. “We found it. A freaking hole in the ground. It has to be–”

“That's it.” Eleven's voice cuts him off. “We found it too.”

It was supposed to be just one.

“What?” Steve asks.

“Head back now. Everyone.” Hopper says and Max turns the radio off.

This is far worse than you thought.

×

@chloe-skywalker @dpaccione @dreamin-of-dacre @funeral-7 @uncookspaget @youhavemyfantasticbeasts @halloweenbitch2764 @redlovett @multific @shinydixon @nikkixostan @clockworkballerina @nope-thanks

[suganovakawa]

i’ll protect you.

— oikawa, iwaizumi, kuroo, and bokuto protect you from bullies!

— gen masterlist.

warnings : iwa swears, bullying

gen taglist ( open! )

tooru oikawa.

✧｡ this might seem a little bit obvious but i’m sure you know that you’re gonna get attacked by oikawa’s fan club eventually

✧｡ someone like you with the one and only tooru oikawa ? hardly meant to be .

✧｡ they make it very deliberate that you hear the words they say

✧｡ " what does tooru see in y/n ? "

✧｡ " beats me , comparing them is like comparing a star to a campfire . "

✧｡ " and i think we all know who the star is . "

✧｡ oikawa notices you're not like yourself during lunch , which makes him worried to say the least

✧｡ you're picking at your food with your chopsticks , your face all mopey and down

✧｡ tooru is the first person to confront you , because he doesn't like his special y/n acting this way

✧｡ " y/n !!! what's wrong , my dear ? i don't like seeing you so sad "

✧｡ " oh . . . tooru . it's nothing , i'm okay "

✧｡ " i don't believe you for a second "

✧｡ " i'm fine , tooru - "

✧｡ right on cue , these stupid girls are pushing past you to get up to tooru , wide and innocent smiles stretched upon their faces as they try to look their prettiest for the star seijoh setter

✧｡ they're all ogling and fawning over oikawa , this was your chance to get by unscathed and unnoticed

✧｡ " excuse me , you do know you just shoved y/n to the side , right ? "

✧｡ you feel oikawa pull you close to him , his eyes glaring at the now embarrassed girls , coming up with silly excuses for their actions

✧｡ he doesn't even bother listening , just turning his heel and walking away with you

✧｡ you're just there like o_o

✧｡ " tooru ? they're your fans ! "

✧｡ " so ? if they don't treat you with respect i'd rather have no fans at all "

hajime iwaizumi.

✧｡ iwa will always be your number one bodyguard and that is on PERIODT

✧｡ you're the manager of the volleyball team but you aren't that close to iwaizumi , but you two have a steady enough relationship where he knows that he at least cares about your wellbeing

✧｡ thankfully he's in the same hallway as some assholes push your books to the ground , antagonizing as you're trying to pick up your things , humiliated as can be

✧｡ " what the fuck do you think you're doing , picking on y/n like that ? "

✧｡ their faces lose all color , slowly turning around and coming face to face with a fuming hajime iwaizumi

✧｡ hajime doesn't even need to lay a hand on these idiots to hurt them , just talking down at them makes their self esteem drop

✧｡ " huh , hot shots ? what , you think you're all that for treating someone like shit ? huh ? is that what it is ? "

✧｡ you're looking up at them dazed as they're just blubbering responses , acting like they've just gotten kicked in the gut

✧｡ " scram . pull this shit again and you'll get more than just a lecture . "

✧｡ you've hardly realized they're running away with their imaginary tails tucked in between your legs when you notice iwa bending down to help gather your things

✧｡ " i'm sorry they did this to you , i'll walk you to class if you'd like "

✧｡ " oh , iwaizumi ! you really don't have to , i can hardly thank you enough for making them go away "

✧｡ " next time people try and pick on you again , don't hesitate in telling me , alright ? i got no problem setting the record straight for those little shits "

✧｡ needless to say , your relationship with him SKY ROCKETED after today

tetsurou kuroo.

✧｡ you’re not the best at sports — you know that , but other people like to rub it in

✧｡ it's gym volleyball , and these boys are purposely picking on you because you can't receive to save your life

✧｡ they're making sure only you touch the ball , laughing when they see you struggling with their serves

✧｡ " you're so lame , y/n ! it's just a serve , and you can't even pass - "

✧｡ THESE KIDS GET HIT SQUARE IN THE NOSES BY WHOOSH AFTER WHOOSH

✧｡ wait woah those volleyballs came out of nowhere

✧｡ oh shit it’s tetsurou

✧｡ he’s Livid as he holds another volleyball in his hand , his jaw clenched as he prepares for another serve , aimed directly at those boys

✧｡ he's mocking them as they're all holding their noses in pure agony

✧｡ " oooooh , what's the matter , huh ? it's just a serve , and you can't even pass it ! ugh, you guys are so lame "

✧｡ kuroo walks over to you , and those guys practically run off , tears staining their eyes as they struggle with the pain from getting served in that place on the nose

✧｡ " how are your arms , y/n ? "

✧｡ " kuroo ! they're a little sore but i can manage , thank you so much "

✧｡ " just giving them the karma they deserved . i think that's the best serve i've ever done , actually . "

✧｡ " i could never receive like that , it would blow my arms right off "

✧｡ he laughs as you visibly shudder at the thought of it

✧｡ " i mean , you could . if you practice hard enough . i could help with that "

✧｡ his blush doesn’t go unnoticed

✧｡ " only if you want to ! y'know , to show those boys who's boss when they try serving at you again "

✧｡ " that would be awesome ! i'd love to learn now to do cool stuff like that "

✧｡ " honestly though , you should also listen to some advice from our libero , yaku - hey , how would you like to be our club manager ? we've been looking for one , and this job will be the insight you need for learning about volleyball - "

✧｡ woooooo boy you snatched that position real quick

koutarou bokuto.

✧｡ you’re very close to bokuto ever since you became the volleyball club manager , and there are some girls at fukurodani who are not happy with that

✧｡ how come they don't get kou all to themselves like how you can ? it's not fairrrrrrr

✧｡ they're all surrounding you after class , wanting to get some facts straight about bokuto

✧｡ and they're not doing it in a very nice way , either

✧｡ " y/n ? i've been waiting for you since class ended ! i thought you said we - hey , what's going on here ? "

✧｡ these girls do a whole ass 180 at the sound of his cheery voice , now circling around him and just about forgetting you existed

✧｡ " bokuto ! your last match was amazing ! "

✧｡ " the ace of fukurodani strikes again , doesn't he ? you're so amazing , senpai ! "

✧｡ at the sight of you with your eyes glued to the ground , he pushes past the girls , ignoring them completely , and walks over to you , his face serious as he tilts your chin up to make you look at him

✧｡ " y/n ? were they being mean to you ? "

✧｡ you hardly respond , but it's all the answer he needs before looking at the girls with a nasty glare

✧｡ woah woah woah where's koutarou and what have you done with him

✧｡ you didn't even know bokuto had it in him to be this angry

✧｡ but oh boy he looked absolutely pissed

✧｡ " i don't think i like you girls very much . treat others the way you wanna be treated , y'know ? but obviously , you guys don't know how to do that . don't even think about stepping near me or y/n until you learn how to show a little bit of respect , yeah ? "

✧｡ every jaw was dropped , including yours , as bokuto dragged you away from your bullies

✧｡ the moment you two leave the school , he flashes a smile your way and proceeds to talk about how he was so close to making it back to being in japan's top three youth aces

✧｡ ah , there's the bokuto we all know and love

✧｡ you're too dumbstruck by what just happened to even say thank you for what he did

✧｡ but believe me , he's far from afraid from showing his scary side again

[stubbedbakutoes]

Ignorance is Bliss

*TW: body image issues* (y/n) overhears Todoroki badmouthing a certain insecurity of hers in front of his friends.

pairing: todoroki x fem reader

genre: angst i guess

word count: 1.3k

masterlist

//

(y/n)’s the type of person who'll go "Holy shit I’m an irresistible human being" one moment and then she's going, "ha ha who am I kidding I've got zero attractive traits," but it’s all a part of growing up and slowly learning to accept herself, she suspected.  

She's progressively learning to love herself, because she's got Todoroki as a boyfriend, a man who’s the expert in telling her that she's "so, so perfect," and whenever Y/N says as much, she'd get a disbelieving scoff and then a list, almost, about why she's apparently so good-looking inside out whenever Y/N started to doubt herself, doubt him, doubt everything and anything.

Todoroki's the one who's been all "you're so sexy," and "I don't understand how you don't see it, baby," and "if I'm a six then you're literally off the charts". He's been the one to slowly but surely coax her into loving herself, to making her do things (like going on a diet, or to the gym) because she wants to – not for the sake of fitting into society's standards of beauty.    

One day Y/N entered his house whilst making sure that her presence remained unknown for the surprise visit to be successful. Then, the sound of some video game echoed around the house, followed by the voices of Todoroki's best friends.

"Not really, guys." She heard Todoroki scoff obnoxiously. "I mean, her legs though. Sometimes her thighs takes so much space, more than me, even when I'm manspreading since it flattens out to the size of an island, or something." He complained, and just laughed like he hadn't just said something insensitive and heartbreaking thing for (y/n) .  

Usually they'd be laughing with her – not at her – but shit happens and now they're too preoccupied laughing over her for them to have noticed her come in.

She can tolerate criticism from some strangers online or even face to face. (y/n) takes those words in her stride, beaming at them, even, as they spit out their insensitivity to her. When it comes from Todoroki, who was all cold on the outside but is dimpled grins and endless, selfless love for everyone around him – that. That she can't handle.

Y/N can't help but think if all his body positivity been a joke all along. Like a bad fan fiction, where Todoroki actually has a split personality wherein he's a massive playboy who'd lost a bet and had to be all lovey-dovey with her until a certain length of time. (y/n) hoped that in the process he saw through her flaws and fell for her, hard. But god damn, it seemed to far-fetched from how passionate Todoroki sounded while hating on her earlier.

If he did turn out to be a massive twat, then (y/n)'s made a grave mistake by falling for this asshole's cheap tricks, hasn't she? She'd been too blinded by love that she's never thought there would come a day where she would regret falling for him. Looking back at how she believed that Todoroki and her were going to last was too naive of her. This must be one of the most gut-wrenching feelings she's ever experienced. It's true when they say ignorance is bliss.

Y/N inhaled deeply. I've got to be logical about this. She contemplated, bringing a hand to her forehead. Can't just immediately jump to conclusions, right?    

She took a couple steps into the house, plastering on a grin. whilst hiding her thighs with the tote bag placed near the front porch, for some reason. With a glance to the wall clock, she realised that she's been gone far longer than she thought and that the guys he was previously chatting with are out of the picture.

"Hey," (y/n) greeted, almost nervously, before she yelled at herself internally because she's got to be all nonchalant about this, afraid of blowing up her cover. Didn't want to give her boyfriend more things to list about things he hated about her, did she?  

"(y/n)! Come here, baby." Todoroki called from the living room, head tilted back and lips immediately lifting into a grin as she came into his line of vision. He lovingly grabbed onto her hands and tugged her down to sit her on his lap like how they routinely do. But if he thinks that my thighs are big as fuck, he must also think that I'm, like, too heavy.   

So with a forced laugh, she refused his offer and sat on the sofa beside him, rushing to a rest a square pillow on her thighs as she gave him a tight-lipped smile, earning a small laugh from him.

"Cuddle." He demanded, almost, much like a greedy child, making grabbing hands towards her.   

Y/N poked her tongue out at him, "Not now," she said in a playful tone – so practiced and perfect. Normally she'd agree right away, but it's obviously different this time because she's cross with him and also doesn't want to accidentally squash him or something.    

Minutes later, he's clearly waiting for her to let her guard down and then come cuddle him. But it never came. He's frowning now, “Ok, what’s wrong?”

“What?” (y/n) asked, pulling herself out of her day dream. "Oh I’m just-”

“And don’t say you’re just tired, we’ve been together long enough for me to know there’s something bothering you.” He said, cutting her off from the usual excuse she would give to anyone.

(y/n) breathed in slowly, eyes darting to the pillow on her lap, "I, uhm. I heard you talking about me just now."  

"You were here earlier?"  

"Went in, then stayed there for awhile, 'cos I – doesn't matter. I was just a bit... I guess, hurt, is all. I'm fine now, though, honestly."  

"Why were you – " he started, then his shoulders are tensing and his eyes are widening as his eyes dart down to the pillow on her lap and he's instantly cursing. "You heard me say that thing about you – about your – fuck. Baby, I'm sorry. I'd take it all back in a heartbeat. I didn't mean it like that, I didn't mean it at all. I just — It just. I'm sorry, baby, please don't be dissapointed. I love you so much," He looked at her from head to toe, his eyes glimmering with adoration. "I love all of you. Every bit of you."  

"It's no big deal, anyway," Y/N mumbled quietly in response.    

"Ofcourse it is," Todoroki insistently shook his head and then scooted so much closer to her, literally hauling her into his lap. (y/n) choked out a squeal, trying to get out of his hold, but he held her down, hands on either sides of her hips like she's weighing nothing more than a leaf, or something. "Baby, please." His lips moved against her skin and she stopped struggling because he's so much stronger than her. "I'm so sorry. I'm a shitty boyfriend to even think that way about you, to my friends, too, but — I just." Todoroki sighed, dropping his forehead onto her shoulder.    

"This is some bullshit excuse but, but. I wanted to– pride. It was a pride thing 'cause they were saying shit like I was whipped, 'cause I kept praising you infront of them by going on and on about you being the epitome of beautiful and how I was insecure about you leaving me one day and how I don't think I'd be able to physically and emotionally cope with that. And I just... you get the gist. Fuck. Being a male is infuriating, honestly," Todoroki huffed out, pouting at the idea of his girlfriend in agony with a pained expression after hearing his insensitive words earlier.

He lifted his head up, placing a chaste kiss to her lips, "What I said – that thing about your thighs, or whatever, I don't even remember what I said 'cause they're right — I talk about you like you hung the moon and the stars and other sappy shit like that. Plus I literally find no fault with you. I love everything about you, baby. I bet I always will."  

She scoffed, then she's smiling, letting out a little laugh, this time it's genuine. I'm definitely in love with him. definitely don't regret it, either.   

[simons-calling-the-127-squad]

First Impressions - YangYang

Warnings: drug usage, cursing, and violence

Credit to the original owners of the images.

GN "Bad Kid" Reader x "Good Kid" YangYang

Soulmate Au: First words to each other

"Y/N, are you paying attention?" Mrs. Song questioned from her position in front of the board.

"Yes ma'am", you said, trying your hardest not to roll your eyes. She looked at you for another moment before her eyes turned back to the notes written on the board, which you had already copied all of them down. You felt a poke in your ribs, your eyes moved over to your right where your friend Andy sat. Before she could speak the bell rang. You instantly moved to put your binder in your bag and waited for Andy to do the same. The two of you quickly walked out and waited in the back of the parking lot for the rest of your friends.

"I swear that woman has it out for you", she says pulling a bag out of her backpack.

"So help me you get us caught-"

"Don't worry", she cut you off, "I'll be careful."

"You better be sharing", Darren said as he walked over motioning for Andy to hurry up. She rolled her eyes and passed him the pipe. He instantly took it and inhaled, handing it to you who did the same.

"How dare you start without us?" Ryder said as he and Bridget joined your group, stealing the pipe from your hands.

"Hey no smoking, you have to drive your cousin home and your aunt will kill you if she finds out your high", Bridget said as she took the pipe from him.

"Speaking of which, where is the little shit?" He said, his eyes moving around the parking lot.

"That reminds me, anybody wanna gimme a ride? My sister has to work so she can't pick me up", you asked the group.

"Yeah sure. I'll need someone to keep me sane after I take Bridget home", Ryder said.

"Trust me. I'm not too happy about riding with you either", a voice said from behind him.

"We'll leave in a few. First, lemme introduce you to the gang. The blue-haired girl is Andy. The one with all of the piercings is Y/N. Green haired dude is Darren and you know Bridget. Guys this is YangYang."

"Sup", Darren told him as he took the pipe from Bridget. YangYang just nodded, it was obvious he was uncomfortable. You felt a bit bad for him, but that didn't stop you from taking another hit before leaving. Bridget got in the passenger seat, leaving you and YangYang in the back. It didn't take long for the two of you to arrive at Bridget's. She kissed Ryder and told you all bye before getting out.

"I need gas and snacks, so we're making a pit stop", he said as he pulled back onto the road. He was in and out of the gas station passing you a bag of chips and YangYang a candy bar.

"So I gotta ask. Why do you guys smoke?" YangYang inquired to his cousin after a bit of silence.

"Numbs things a bit. And with it, things hurt less. Y/N is better at describing it", Ryder replied. YangYang turned to you.

"Let it hurt until it can't hurt anymore. That's what it's like without it", you said. He nodded and turned back to look out the window.

"That answer your question?" Ryder glanced in the rearview mirror to look at YangYang, who nodded. The moment the car arrived at his house YangYang thanked his cousin and jumped out of the car.

"Hopefully I don't have to give him a ride again", he said as he backed into the road.

"Eh, he didn't seem that bad."

"Let's just hope he doesn't tell my aunt I'm a stoner", he whispered. You let out a little laugh and continued to talk until you got back home.

------

It became a tradition for Ryder to take you home, and for him to drive YangYang home on Thursdays. It had been a month since the first time you had met him, and he still hadn't talked to you. But you couldn't really blame him, you were the classic "bad kid" that literally got stoned in the school parking lot, and he was the "good kid" that had the perfect record. It still amazed you that he and Ryder were even related at all. Just like the first time you rode together, Ryder had to make a pit stop at the gas station, though this time he was taking much longer. You found yourself growing more and more tired as you waited. It didn't help that you were unable to sleep last night and had smoked some with the group before leaving. You forced yourself to stay awake and pulled out your phone, hoping to distract yourself from the temptations of falling asleep.

"Awake and unafraid", YangYang whispered, so low that you almost didn't hear him. Your eyes widened and they moved to your wrist, which was covered by your sleeve. The exact same words were etched into your skin. The words that had been there since your birth and would be the first words your soulmate told you.

"Talk about a plot twist", you mumbled, causing YangYang to laugh.

"I wasn't expecting it either", he admitted

"Wait a second", you said upon realization, "I talked to you the first time we rode with Ryder. You've known for a month that we're soulmates and didn't say anything?"

"Admittedly I was a bit concerned when I figured out that we're mates. But then I realized, things aren't that simple, that I know nothing about you and have no reason to have concerns. But I wasn't sure what to say, so I waited for the right time."

"I hate the fact that is reasonable. Second off, what the heck did you mean by unafraid?" Your torso moving to face him.

"You're unafraid of what others think. And to say what's on your mind. I've noticed that after learning we shared some classes."

"We have classes together?" You asked, your face twisting in surprise.

"Several", he answered with a laugh.

"Dang I'm blind."

"To be fair most times you're stuck in your head. And most likely stoned during class", he responded.

"Okay, you're not wrong on that. But lemme guess, you don't want people to know we're soulmates?" As you asked the question the driver's door opened.

"Hold the phone. Y'all are soulmates?" Ryder asked as he entered the car. Tossing candy at you two. The two of you nodding in response.

"And to answer your question. I'd much rather people know we're soulmates."

"Why though? You're the golden boy and I'm one of the resident stoners", you inquired as you opened up the chocolate.

"Because we're soulmates? The differences will definitely cause some trouble, but we'll be able to get through them", he told you.

"I still can't believe you two are mates", Ryder said as he started the car. The conversation was then put on hold, you assumed it would most likely be continued tomorrow.

---

It was lunchtime when you finally met up with YangYang.

"Sorry I'm late", he said. He dropped his bag onto the floor and sat next to you. He kept his head down and eyes trained on the table.

"You good?" You asked.

"Uh yeah, fine."

"YangYang, you do realize that I can tell your lying, right?" You said as you leaned closer to him. He finally peeked up at you, his eyes were a bit red.

"I hate the fact that I can't lie to you", he said with a slight pout.

"What happened?" You questioned.

His shoulders sagged as he mumbled something incoherently. You raised your eyebrows at him.

"Just Blake and Liam being their usual selves." That's when you noticed the scratch on his cheek.

"Woah hold up. They did that?" You could already feel the anger rising in you. YangYang must've seen it in your eyes and began rambling about how it usually is worse, but as your fists clenched in anger he knew he messed up. Instead, he started backtracking, but it was too late, you were already storming out of the cafeteria to behind the gym. You knew the two boys hung out there during lunch, as cliche as it was. You could hear YangYang trailing close behind and begging you not to do anything.

"Y/N, what's up?" Blake greeted upon seeing you. Before you would've returned the greeting, but now you just grabbed him by the collar.

"Hey what fu-" Liam started, as he moved to you. But you glare turned to him, he immediately paused.

"Wanna tell me what you did to YangYang?" You asked, backing Blake up until he hit the wall.

"Why do you care?" Liam asked.

"One chance to tell me. I might not hit as hard if you answer", your grip tightening.

"Okay we roughhoused a bit, so what?"

"Is this the first time?"

"Yes?" Your right knee jerked up to hit I'm in the stomach. He groaned in pain and would've doubled over had it not been for your hold on him.

"What the hell Y/N?" Liam asked, his eyes widened in shock.

"Shit, fine. We've done it before", Blake panted.

"Oh so now you wanna tell the truth?" You asked rhetorically as your left fist reeled back and connected with his jaw. You dropped him from your hold as you heard Liam rush over to you. His knee made contact with your ribs, but you lunged at him and tackled him to the ground. As his back hit the concrete he let out a huff. You wasted no time on landing the punches. You rolled off of him when Blake attempted to yank you off. Your right foot landed on his chest and he stumbled back after the kick. You stood up, as he hobbled back towards you, and you grabbed onto his hair. He yelped at the pain of you pulling him up by it. You landed a final punch on his cheek and let go before shoving him to the ground where he sputtered up the smallest amount of blood.

"Bully anyone else and you probably won't make it out of the hospital next time. Understand?" You informed them as you moved to stand in front of them. Blake nodded and Liam groaned.

"And tell anyone that if they touch YangYang they're dead. Spread the word that if they mess with my soulmate, I will find them", you told them before grabbing YangYang's hand and walking back to the cafeteria.

"Where were you guys?" Darren asked when you sat back down.

"Had to take care of some assholes. And Andy blacklist Blake and Liam from your selling list." She nodded.

"So what'd they do?" Bridget asked.

"They messed with my mate", you told her as you pulled a blushing YangYang into your arms. Everyone at the table was surprised to say the least, well besides Ryder who was dying of laughter.

----

YangYang had decided to ride with Ryder again, he had asked his cousin to drop the two of you off at a local park. You waved Ryder off as he and Bridget backed out of the parking lot and walked with YangYang to a nearby bench. The two of you didn't get to talk after getting back to the cafeteria and you knew he had something to say about the whole situation.

"Alright, go ahead and say it", you told him. He gave you a confused look.

"That you don't wanna date me after the whole lunch fiasco."

"That's not at all what I was gonna say. I was gonna say that A) next time please give me a warning if you're gonna kick someone's ass. B) that was awesome. And C) let's go on an official date and actually start dating." It was your turn to be confused.

You could feel your eyebrows pull together as you asked him, "You still wanna date me?"

"Uh yeah?"

"Why?" You blurted out, prompting the boy next to you to laugh.

"Well I know you'll always protect me. And you're fun. And my soulmate."

"Well, I didn't expect that." He laughed again and stood up, pulling you with him as he walked to a nearby bakery.

"Now let's go on our first date, soulmate", he winked. You smiled, thinking about how it was definitely gonna be interesting to see everyone's reactions on Monday morning. And how the two of your story plays out, but you're looking forward to it.

-🃏

[stimmypaw]

stimmypaw reads the apprentice’s quest, a blog post

A big one, just a bunch of thoughts as I’m reading it, of course, lots of spoilers for the first book in the Warrior Cats series A Vision of Shadows. This will be covering just the first book tho, it’s all in the Read More, let’s gooooooo!!!!

Vision Of Shadows time

Lots of new cats!!! I don't remember these guys as kits or anything wrow!!! I like their names but itll take a while to get used to them

Also cant believe they printed stormcloud's dead name

Omg there's a cat named beepaw

I love these cats all of them so much im going 2 cry

All new names are perfect

I FORGOT HOW GORGEOUS THE CAT VIEW IN THE RECENT BOOKS WAS, LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT

I'm glad leafpool smokes weed

I love reading from Jayfeather's point of view, his grumpiness hasn't grown on me ever but thats just me, I still enjoy it lots he's great and its fun

Firestar and Leopardstar's characterizations are On Point i love it

OOF i feel so bad when jayfeather is mean to others, poor kestrelflight, I love those two

Lovely Jayfeather moments now its time for the first chapter

I like this duo! Also I didn't think I'd ever say this but shut up squirrelflight one can have fun AND learn with their mentors

Sparkkit sounds nice she makes jingling bell noises when she walks around

Alderkit is chadphobic /j

I can see Alderkit taking deep breaths to relax its rotating in my mind its beautiful

God this first chapter feels so good and comfortable, like eating noodles and chicken nuggets. I am so so deeply in love with it, its gorgeous!

Sparkkit is so perfect too, and Graystripe remembering Firestar aaaaaa

DUSTPELT SAID WHAT? PHDHAHAHHA OH NOOOO I don't remember their relationship much, must have been fun, I love young little creature squirrelflight I MISSED HER SO BAD WOW

I started reading the second chapter and died, I think ill take a break now 2 sleep heehhee

I love them describing twoleg stuff its always so fun and alien, like watching an animal planet show about funny sea creatures.

Also I have determined sparkpaw is my favorite, might be my favorite cat ever next to hollyleaf??? I really identify with her and also she's autistic i have decided that

Alderpaw baby noooo hhhh their mentor at least is trying to show its okay, he seems very emotionally distant so far and alderheart feels very emotionally needy, actually both of them do, did I mention I love Sparkpaw??? I might be imprinting myself 2 much on her

I love how like, its clear both of them are absolutely anxious and worried about others opinions on them, which is clearly something they got from being Firestar's grandkids, deputy kids and leader kids. And bramblestar too, I recall him being quite the anxious lad ahhah. Sparkpaw will be showing confidence and being loud but the second anyone isn't approving of her or she does something "wrong" she gets small and quiet, and she ended up setting a high bar for herself by being good at hunting and fighting so I'm curious to see how that will go. Also there's nothing wrong with being guided through a crowded place to meet others Sparkpaw!!! I bet the two of them would be stuck without not knowing how to talk to others had Needlepaw not shown up. I love them, my gf is mocking me saying I'm a Sparkpaw kinnie.

Apprentices will like learn about a thing and tell everyone about it all the time and assume its always true in every situation and thats valid I love kids like that. Also in my head Needlepaw kinda looks like a porcupine. Oh boo she's fatphobic >:(

I love apprentices they are so fun and silly, just making fun of the leaders like its nothing. The way they are clearly learning and absorving everything their warriors say and do like sponges its just ***chefs kiss***

Omg shadowclan is just full of 12 year olds help

And then the old person said "it sure is hard being old!" And everyone clapped

Shout-out to pretty Riverclan apprentice #481977 I love her

Leafpool: 👁👁

Alderpaw: I knew it im cursed and awful and terrible and I will never amount to anything

I wish the cats didn't seem to be giving up on him so easily though

Ah yes the classic thunderclan move "you suck, into the medicine hole you go"

The way sparkpaw changes the things she says and how she does when it isn't the status quo around her oooooooooooooyeaaaaaaa I love 1 autistic cat

Alderpaw considering your problems lesser than other cats won't help you deal with them better bro

I love Needlepaw's excitement about Alderpaw being a medicine cat apprentice, and her sarcasm, she feels like a preppy teenager

Ahhh this is so good, I am so thirsty for family moments like this, just Alderpaw bonding with grandma, I’ll definitely want to draw this one it’s so sweet.

Oh to be young and silly.

I really am enjoying like, Alderpaw’s struggles to seeing how he fits in the clan, how he fits in himself, how he wants to be seen and what he wants to be, it’s really good. I Am Engaged(tm) With This Plot.

SPARKPAW NOOOOOOO but also Yes I want her to be shown vulnerable and weak please 

POP, god watching this stuff always awful, the cats must have thought he broke her ahahah

Also, really great that they learned from Dovewing and now like leave choices and discussions about prophecies between adults

And plus Brambles seemed to take the time to explain stuff to him, seems he wont be going alone either the 1 thing is that he will be the only one knowing what the journey is really about, why though??? I didnt read Firestar's Quest or whatever why does Skyclan need to be secret??? Seems quite silly really!

YESSSS SANDSTORM GET HIS ASS FIGHT FIGHT LOVE THIS LOVE SANDSTORM

I could feel squirrelflight nearing explosion here, this was very fun, i wish they werent hiding this though!!!

The secret thing is showing to be a plot point so I am once again Very Engaged

Also, wonderful dialogue bit, someone asked Bramblestar why an Elder is going and:

Lovely perfect perfect

I miss you dovewing

SQUIRRELFLIGHT LOVE YOU

Oh boy this is it

Traveling book moment

Graystripe: Soooo you're excited to go on the journey to the old territories and Skyclan?

Sandstorm: Yes! It's been ages and-

Graystripe: I'm sure the tribe will love the visit too

Sandstorm, groaning: Oh noooo I forgot about how the tribe is in the way of every journeyyyyy noooooo they're such a racist caricature, please tell me you have a plan

Graystripe: Yes don't worry about it the writers forgot about the tribe in my comic book so you can just use the excuses i did to actively avoid it

Sandstorm: Oh thank Starclan

Sparkpaw's desperation to prove herself oof, her anxiety with understanding the prophecy, oh boy, and Alderpaw feeling too overwhelmed by the questions and not managing to talk!!!! I am so glad they are both autistic

Hoping "Being Leader" wont mean theyre putting nonsense responsibility on the apprentice again

Ah good Sandstorm is on the lead again, as she should, she should have been leader she would have been great

I can't believe Alderpaw thinks I look stupid and diseased :( /j

Everything about this twoleg scene was scandalous I loved it, Sparkpaw just toppled over a trash bag and they are eating from it, iconic, also did those twolegs throw out a whole turkey? Damn

Its not that Sparkpaw is freakishly good at hunting she is very hungry and constantly on the watch for things to eat

BRO Ive never been in a road where the drivers are this wild, throwing bottles out of the car????? Ive seen Fruit being thrown like once or twice, what the fuck!!! I'm glad they are going to wait until the morning to continue

Okay I was not expecting Needlepaw to show up this girl is chaotic I love her

ACTUALLY YEAH WHY DIDNT THEY TELL THE OTHER CLANS ABOUT THIS SINCE THE PROPHECY IS ABOUT ALL THE CLANS???

Needlepaw is like Rono from Bambi 2 if he wasnt a mean bully and thats very epic

Very curious character though, how come her mentor isnt teaching her the warrior code properly? Is that an issue with all apprentices?? Is the clan overwhelmed by 12 year olds and they won?

Having lots of fun trying to play the game "what animal are they describing this time" the erins made here, im glad they're in a farm. Worried about Sandstorm though :c

Fuck im worried about sandstorm a lot, her wound hurt on Me

Yeah water is good youre right sandstorm

Aw man I hope she's okay let her at least survive to meet skyclan please

NOOOOOOOO SANDSTORMA A AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

Sandtteooonrjrbbbmmnnnnnnnnnn

I am so sad

Alderpaw denying it, Starclan shining upon their vigil, everything crushed me i cried

Alderpaw considers Nihilism

Haven't seen a cat thank starclan for prey in a while its

Oh look they time skipped a journey! They don't tend to do that thats nice

I'm so excited to be meeting The Skyclan that everyone in the fandom knows now

So far they seem kinda mean but thats most clans at first glance really

Okay somethings up

I uh have heard of Darktail pretty sure he's a bad guy so yeah something really bad happened to Skyclan

Am worried

Darktail sounds like an evil himbo* i may be enjoying him actually

*himbos are usually nice by default so he's just evil and stupid and strong

Does needletail know these cats already?????

Ah

Shit

Oh okay fuck

I've been quietly reading the rest because I am just concerned and I want them to be okay as quickly as possible

Waterfalls are a classic nice

Oh boy time for our unlikely duo of Alderpaw and Needlepaw to get out of a Mess!

I did not expect this to end up with the two of them journeying into parenthood, but I'm happy it did

Well actually I'm very unhappy theyre so lost and there's no sign of Skyclan I am very worried for everyone involved Sparkpaw must be feeling awful!

Twigkit is a great name

Yeah this ended terribly

Overall! Frigging loved it this book was GOOD and a great start for the series I am very excited to read the rest, SO WORRIED ABOUT SKYCLAN THO AAAA the characterizations were great the characters were great the pacing was fun and I didn't get bored once!

I think o only wish I had read this sooner really so I could look up others thoughts without getting heavily spoiled about the last books, I can watch a few videos already though thats a start ahhaha. But yeah it was great and it felt very good to read, haven't swallowed up a book so quickly in a very long time!!! Very happy I finally got my hands on this 💕💖💕💖💕💖 cant wait 2 start the next one

If you read all this, hope you had fun hahaha, ill be making more of these cus theyre fun and I like talking about warrior cats thats just my thing

Til next time

[demyrie]

Something like toshis guard being worn down maybe they're just hanging out or drinking and aizawa is playing maybe like teasing him and then toshi responds like way too into it and aizawa is like ???woah ok uhh didn't really mean for that to happen uhhh now im turned on

UHHHH OKAY SO THIS IS LITERALLY THREE MONTHS LATE? And also it’s definitely not what you wanted, sweet anon, because I love and feel that trope, but this is more an exploration of a far less … competent and more awkward Aizawa. Also Yagi having the self-respect to realize when he’s being toyed with. So. (*whispers* i hate it)

Aizawa wasn’t a perfect person –farthest from it – but he never imagined his most pronounced sin ofthe year would be waiting and watching.

It began with All Might joining thefaculty, which was by far the worst event of the year, seconded onlyby the idiot being assigned to his year and his class. This wasn’this realm and Aizawa invested himself in letting the other hero knowit, maybe burning off the residual resentment he had incurred fromNezu grandly dismissing his concerns about All Might teaching at UA.From day one, he needled “All Might-sama” mercilessly aboutlesson plans and made it clear there would be no celebrity quartergiven as long as his class’s education was on the line. Refused allpersonal interaction. Turned away whenever he pulled his favoritetrick.

He was, in general, an impeccableasshole, the sting of rejection and criticism incarnate, and thus hadutterly no explanation for the predicament he woke to some monthslater, when Yagi stayed after class to tentatively ask him to(friendly coworker) dinner the third time in a week and couldn’t keephis gaze for a moment without turning bright red and Aizawa realized.

Maybe no one had ever been rough orhonest with him before, or held him to standards that weren’tmeasured in musculature. It seemed like just the kind of warpedcelebrity thing to get turned on about, but the teacher’s bittertheory had a hole in it: No matter how much Aizawa wished it, Yagiwasn’t All Might. He just wasn’t.

(Yagi was kind, tentative, bumbling butwell-meaning, and was honestly very much stressing Aizawa’s accomplished skill of hating anything that moved because he was sodamn agreeable and even if he was a wrecking ball, he was starting tomake progress with the kids, and …)

Aizawa, to his credit, wasn’t asadistic person, either. It took too much energy and gave him nothingto see people in pain. He wasn’t like Midnight, as evidenced by herdisapproval of him and how he was handling this very peculiarsituation, but he still found himself torturing Yagi just a bit. Just… a bit.

There was something addictive aboutteasing the towering man, and the sheer energy he gave off jumping atevery little touch. Part of the amusement was watching Yagi strugglewith himself because there was so very much to struggle with, as talland gawky as he was, and maybe part of Aizawa figured he was overduefor some awkwardness after living so long, unquestioned, as theSymbol of Peace. The game kept him interested both in How and When:even as he wondered how such a man could possibly have chosen him tolike, and how far could Yagi Toshinori contort himself inpleasantries and avoidance before he said something honest, ordemanded an explanation?

The answer: no idea, and exactly threebeers and one poorly timed attempt at groping.

Hizashi and Nemuri (read: Nemuri) hadexcommunicated him until he resolved the “All Might issue” and itonly took one half-offer before Yagi agreed to a dinner. A dinnerbetween coworkers. It was a local ramen place near to his apartmentwith decent food at a great price, and a traditional but lacklusterambiance much improved by a retired hero on his absolute bestbehavior and refraining from try-hard jokes and forceful merriment.

It wasn’t often Aizawa felt safe enoughto get solidly drunk anywhere but with his friends, but there he was.Then, there Yagi was, and he started messing. Leaning over too closeto get the sake bottle, putting his hand on the man’s mile-long leg.Brushing his hair from his face and laughing low and satisfied. Tooclose, way too close.

For however close he was, drunk on alittle more than beer – maybe power, maybe the simple andabsolutely foreign pleasure of being admired – he failed to noticeas Yagi’s face dropped and his reactions became more and morestilted, stricken, unsure. As he caught on, poke by prod.

Everyone always told him he was anasshole when he was drunk. Now, he saw why, and it was revealed tohim in vivid technicolor when he pretended to lose his balance on theway out of the bar and fell into the towering hero, hand gropingaround his waist. He even aimed his mouth oh-so-purposefully for theskin of the older man’s neck, only for his wrists to be yankedtogether and his head bounced against the wall, the impact knockingthe breath out of him.

Above him, Yagi was little more than asilhouette of wiry hair and burning blue eyes in the cheap yellowlighting.

“Don’t.”

Yagi was so tall, so thin, so yielding,and that was the problem: Aizawa had nearly forgotten that the Symbolof Peace was under there. The fire in his eyes still smoldered, andnow those eyes pinned him to the wall. The heat alone was enough toburn off most of his high.

“What are you doing?” Yagi gritout, voice like a body drug over gravel.

“I was waiting,” Aizawa forced out,panicking and drunk as shit and knowing he was choosing the wrongwords even as he said them. “Waiting to see –”

“But you weren’t waiting, tonight.Did you get bored? To turn to humiliation so quickly when someone isunder your power is a staggering character flaw, Aizawa,” he saidin low, dangerous tones,  his height all the more intimidating toknow how low he was bending just to speak to him, to crowd Aizawa’s spaceand block the light. “I thought Midnight was the sadist among youthree.”

Humiliation? The word didn’t make senseand Aizawa opened his mouth, but all that came out was a huff of airas the steely grip on his wrists dissolved and Yagi pushed himgently, tiredly against the wall and turned away. Toward the door.

“I wasn’t going to say anythingbecause I didn’t think it was possible for you to feel the same way.So I don’t blame you for your feelings, but I would have appreciateda simple no.”

“Damnit, Yagi,” he forced out.“Don’t.”

It was a fragment, a stupid inverse parroting of what Yagi said before, but of course theolder man understood. His powers of understanding were only rivaledby his patience, it seemed, which only made Aizawa feel worse as Yagistared him down, emanating disappointment.

“It would be best if I went. Ifyou’re really that inebriated, I can call you a taxi,” he saidbitterly. He ran a hand through his hair, shaking his head slightly. “We’ll continue this conversation when you’re sober … Ifyou’re even inclined.”

“I’m shit at this.”

Yagi stopped, then turned to look athim. Head lifting off his shoulders in a combination of fear andalcohol, Aizawa was distantly aware he was locking his knees and hecouldn’t stop.

“At this. All of it. I don’t know howto read people or what they want. All I want to do is get straight tothe point, and you kept skirting. So.”

“So?”

“This place is near my apartment,”he blurted out.

So I didn’t know what else to do,he wanted to say, now caught in the disastrous fallout of hisinability to speak human or navigate social mores. This was All Mightthey were talking about, after all. He wasn’t really that drunk, andhad never been, but it was a fantastic excuse to reach for what hewanted. Might want, or dare to want. Aizawa should have realized howuncharacteristically loose and stupid he was being, acting out insome vague ploy to get a stranger’s attention, but what was there todo?

It clearly took Yagi a minute toprocess everything, and even then his baffled expression only becamemore concerned.

“So, after giving me absolutely noindication that you even respect me as a coworker, you suddenlyinvite me to a restaurant … near your apartment and … then gropeme in the hallway …” he began uncertainly, enormous hand out likehe expected Aizawa to give him the key to whatever insane train hadferried him to this particular plan.

“It would have been easier if youactually drank,” Aizawa admitted at length, mulish. The mathsounded better in his head: drunk person A giving drunk person B whatthey want, which is also what A wanted, waking up the morning afterand thus skipping the step where they had to talk about wantingthings.

He pinched his nose. Okay, maybe alittle villainous. Or just shitty on a person level.

“If I’d been drunk, it would havebeen coercion,” the older hero countered, now actively chuckling instunned disbelief. He shook his head, regarding him with some kind ofamazement. “You are bad at this.”

“Not very heroic,” he said, lookinghim in the eye. Daring Yagi to see the kind of person he was and makehis exit accordingly.

“Not very functional,” Yagiresponded dryly, making Aizawa drop his gaze by the sheerrelentlessness of his strange blue-black attention. Brave, like hewasn’t, but also not judgmental.

A paragon of righteousness andcommunity values, just like the posters portrayed, and altogether toogood for him. The realization – juxtaposition – nauseated him alittle. Just what was he trying to pull, here? Aizawa shruggedsharply, the last of his stupid ideas caving and leaving him withnothing more than an exit to make.

“You’re the first person I’ve triedto seduce, if it’s any consolation, and I won’t be trying again,”he said, gruff. He straightened his shirt and gestured to the handblocking him from the rest of the restaurant. Yagi hurriedly withdrewit, straightening to a facsimile of his timid self, but Aizawacouldn’t find it in himself to move just yet.

He breathed out quietly, burnt andstunned by his own combined stupidity and gall.

“You can leave, now. If you want.I’ll get the tab.”

“I’d actually like to leave withyou,” he said mildly, ducking his head a bit and looking to theside when Aizawa’s head snapped up in disbelief. “If you’re stillinterested in my, er, company, that is.”

His pale brows drifted up and theappraising look dampened the instant throb of Aizawa’s stupid heart,but not for long.

“But you do get to pay the tab thistime. I think I’ve earned it.” Yagi grinned, sudden and shining inhis gaunt face. “I think this is the first time I’ve been seduced,but I … don’t know if I would recommend it to anyone else.”

Breaking out of him like he’d beenwhacked in the gut, Aizawa chuckled, stupid and low. If people werepaid to put up with him, as he believed they should be on some level,Mic and Midnight wouldn’t be poring over cheap scratchers every otherweek. Then again, he was pretty certain they just did that for thescummy thrill of it.

“Meet you outside,” Aizawa saidwith a nod, hardly believing he could still say it.

The cautious, sideways smile on Yagi’sface as he turned to go chilled him and warmed him in the samebreath, leaving him rubbing at his arms and the prickled skin there.Was he even drunk anymore? Was he ever drunk in the first place?

More importantly, what the hell didYagi even see in him? It was the question of the year and one thatwasn’t easily answered, but walking down the sidewalk with thecautious space between them shrinking step by step, slowly makingconversation, felt like a start.

[melika-elena]

First of all congrats congrats ily! You deserve ALL the followers Mel! (And all the Minty!) Fic prompt: my friend can’t stop talking about how they want to set me up with their other friend so we start texting each other and they’re hilarious but shy about meeting and ALSO there’s a cute bike delivery guy who brings my mail at work and winks at me whenever i sign for a package (surprise! they're the same person) AU

ILY ILY!!!! Here’s your fic :) 

“His name’s Monty.”

Miller waited.

And waited.

He gave in. “Uh, okay.” He raised an eyebrow. “And?”

Clarke raised an eyebrow in return. “And what? His name’s Monty. Here’s his number.”

It had been a nice day today– his coworkers weren’t being too big of dicks; it was finally dark past six o’clock; and his beer was good, so instead of falling back on his usual surliness, Miller veered into amusement instead. “You know,” he said, “I had been expecting a more effusive recommendation for this guy than this.”

Clarke rolled her eyes. “Well, I’ve tried that with you before with other guys and you always found some stupid thing about them to talk yourself out of texting them,” she said. “So I’m done doing the hard work for you. Talk to them yourself and figure out why you don’t want to text them.”

“Well, that’s no fun,” Miller complained. “Not to mention complicated.”

Clarke leveled him with a stare that reminded him eerily of Raven. “If you don’t text Monty, you’re missing out,” she said bluntly. “All you need to know is that he’s great and I wouldn’t steer you wrong, okay?”

Miller opened his mouth to respond with something snarky, but then shut it. Well, that was true. Clarke could be an overbearing bitch sometimes, but her heart was in the right place, and even if her own dating life was a complete disaster, she could pretty clearly see other people’s.

“Fine,” he grunted. “Give me his number.”

From Nate (8:10PM)

Hey

This is Nate

Clarke’s friend

She gave me your number?

From Monty (8:12PM)

Hey!

Yeah, she told me she was going to

Um

How are you?

From Nate (8:14PM)

Good

Awkward

From Monty (8:15PM)

Ha!

Same

It could be worse, I guess

This could be in PERSON

From Nate (8:16PM)

I’ll be fully honest– when you said that

I cringed

From Monty (8:24PM)

An introvert’s worst nightmare

I get it

This is meeting my social interaction

quota for the evening

So I don’t feel too guilty for sitting in my PJs

And watching Bob’s Burgers on Netflix

From Nate (8:25PM)

Ideal Friday night situation, imo

I love Bob’s Burgers

Did you hear they’re taking that off Netflix?

From Monty (8:26PM)

WHAT? NO!!!!!

What the flying fuck

From Nate (8:27PM)

It’s a fucking tragedy

They’re pulling a bunch of shows

Focusing on original content, I think

Which– if it’s like Sense8, fine

If it’s like Iron Fist, they can go fuck themselves

From Monty (8:28PM)

I have so many opinions

About both those shows

I don’t even know where to start

From Nate (8:29PM)

Lucky for you

I’m also doing nothing

We have all the time in the world

“Package for… Nathan Miller?”

“Miller!” Murphy called, bored, not looking up. “Package for you.”

Miller scowled as he came to the front desk. “You can sign it for me,” he said pointedly to Murphy. “It’s part of your job?”

Murphy ignored him.

“Any interest in switching careers?” Miller muttered to the messenger as he signed for the package, giving the messenger a flicker of an apologetic smile. His smile froze for a second as he handed back the slip and pen.

The guy was cute, there was no denying that, dark, shaggy hair, bright smile, and in his bike attire, it was evident that this guy had insane thighs, holy shit. The nametag on his shirt read Jasper. “Heh, my mother would be thrilled,” he said, “three career moves in a year. But I think I’ll stick with this for now.”

Miller snorted, despite his curiosity at the other man’s statement. “Let me know if you change your mind.”

Jasper laughed. “I will,” he said. “Have a good day!” He said, turning around.

Miller couldn’t help himself– he definitely checked out if those bike shorts made his ass look as good as his thighs (they did.) “Yeah,” he said. “You, too.”

From Monty (10:34PM)

Hear me out here–

ANH

ESB

ROJ

TFA

RO

ROS

AOC

PM

From Miller (10:36PM)

That’s MOSTLY right

But why are you kidding yourself

Empire Strikes Back > A New Hope

From Monty (10:38PM)

Wrong wrong wrong wrong wrong

Nate!!

How can you go wrong with the one that

STARTED EVERYTHING

I mean, come on

From Miller (10:40PM)

Everything about ESB is better

It gets to the heart and soul of the story

ANH is a lot of set-up

From Monty (10:42PM)

We need to watch the movies and see

From Miller (10:43PM)

Haven’t you seen the movies like, 27 times,

According to you?

From Monty (10:45PM)

Well, YEAH

But not with YOU

Miller and Monty had been texting for weeks now, mostly platonically. Sometimes it veered into flirting, and Miller was totally on board, but the idea of meeting face-to-face, even if he knew he liked Monty as a person? It freaked him out.

Not to mention… he might’ve also been engaging in a little real-life flirting, too, with someone who wasn’t Monty.

Jasper the Bike Messenger came by at least twice a week with packages, and just maybe Miller timed it so that he was always on his way out for a coffee break when Jasper came by, just so they could chat and then walk out together. Maybe it was a little obvious (especially judging by Murphy’s judgmental, snarky comments,) but Miller couldn’t bring himself to care. Jasper was just so cute, with his great smile and shiny black hair, and the way he used his hands to talk, (and those fucking shorts). Miller was working up the courage to ask him for his number, or to join him on a coffee break, or something, but the idea of Monty kept holding him back.

He and Monty weren’t exclusive; hell, they’re dancing around the idea of just meeting up in person. But Miller’d never been someone who talks to multiple people at once, weighing his options; that’s fine for some people, as long as everyone’s on board, but he didn’t work that way. He just couldn’t. And he didn’t know what to do about it.

“Hey,” said Jasper, smile lighting up his face as he came in. “No Murphy today?”

“Out sick,” Miller said. “Thank god. The temp agency might be sending us someone new next week,” he raised his eyebrows meaningfully. “Unless you want to step in?”

Jasper laughed. “Nah, I’m good,” he said. “But maybe if the next temp doesn’t work out.”

Miller’s lips quirked. “You like it?” He asked. “Being a messenger?”

Jasper shrugged. “Keeps me in good shape,” he said, and it was all Miller could do to bite back a, fuck, yeah, it does comment. “And, well, to be honest I had a fast-paced office job for a few years before this– it burnt me out, putting it mildly. I quit and wanted something completely different, and this is it. I don’t know how long I’ll continue to do it, but it’s good until I figure out what I really want. Bike rides help with thinking about that, too.” He grinned. “And my best friend works there, too, which is fun.”

“That does help,” Miller said, wondering if this was the moment where he should ask Jasper to coffee, but he was already getting back on his bike, and the moment passed.

Fuck. Miller rubbed his hand over his face as Jasper pedaled away with a wave. He really needed to get his life into order.

From Monty (4:28PM)

Nate

Is it the weekend yet?

I’m DYING

From Miller (4:32PM)

Only a half-hour left

Any weekend plans?

From Monty (4:37PM)

Not much

My best friend Jasper and I

Are going to be hanging out

Might go see the new Power Rangers

You?

Miller nearly spat out his lukewarm coffee. How many fucking Jaspers were there in the world, anyway? Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, FUCK. He was in some fucking trouble. It would just be his life where he had a crush on two best friends.

From Miller (4:48 PM)

Sounds fun

Is Jasper the same friend who you said used to

Make you dress up as the red and blue rangers

Every year for Halloween for like, ten years?

From Monty (4:50PM)

Yes, that’s him! Good memory

Yeah, he’s been my best friend for ages

Feel like I haven’t talked about him a lot

Even though we work together and stuff

He’s been really busy with his new girlfriend

So I haven’t seen him lately.

Best friends who work together. Jasper said it himself, too, so it Even though the thought that Jasper was unavailable should’ve made Miller’s life easier, it kind of punched him in the gut, anyway. He liked Jasper, and now he just felt guilt at the idea that the choice had been made for him because he liked Monty, too, and didn’t want to think of him as a back-up.

At least he knew enough now not to flirt with Jasper anymore, and he could just focus on Monty and continue on as they were. Yeah. Good plan.

From Miller (5:02PM)

It’s finally the weekend

Besides seeing the Power Rangers

Would you be interested in grabbing a drink?

From Monty (5:05PM)

Yeah

I would like that

Miller saw him basically the moment he came in and it took every ounce of courage in him not to turn around and hightail it out of there. What were the odds that Jasper would be here as well? Did Monty tell him? Oh, god, maybe Monty bailed and sent Jasper in his place.

Now he was actually considering leaving, but Jasper already spotted him, and he looked as confused as Miller felt, even as his face lit up in a smile.

“Miller, hey!” Jasper said, bounding up to him. “What a coincidence.”

“Hey,” Miller said, hoping he didn’t look as awkward as he felt. “It is. What, uh, what are you up to tonight?”

Jasper rubbed his hand at the back of his neck. “I’m, uh, meeting up with someone I’ve been talking to a few weeks now. Friend of a friend. I think it’s a date?”

Miller froze. “What?”

Jasper didn’t seem to notice. “Yeah, he’s a friend of my friend Clarke. She said that we were totally each other’s types, and at first I didn’t quite believe her– if you knew her, you’d know that her love life is a total shit show, but she was actually right! I, uh, I really like him, and–” he cuts himself off with a laugh. “And you really don’t care about that. Sorry.”

“No,” Miller still didn’t know what the fuck was going on, but he needed to find out now. “No, I really do. I think you’re here for me. Maybe?”

Jasper frowned. “What?”

“I think so, anyway,” Miller shook his head. “I’m also here to meet someone who I’ve been texting for a while. Someone my friend Clarke set me up with.”

Jasper’s gaping. “But I’m here for someone named Nate.”

“And I’m here for someone named Monty.”

They both said at the same time, “That’s me.”

Jasper– Monty is laughing. “What did you think my name was?”

“The first day you came into my office, your name tag read Jasper,” Miller said. “So I thought–”

“Oh my god,” Monty said. “I remember that day! I had to wear Jasper’s shirt because I spilled coffee on mine.” He gave Miller a questioning look. “But I thought– your name–”

“Nathan Miller,” Miller said with a smile.

Monty laughed again. “This is ridiculous.”

Miller gave him a sheepish smile. “I felt so guilty,” he said, “I thought–”

“Me, too,” Monty said. “But, uh, now it’s kinda like all my dreams are coming true.”

“Yeah,” Miller swallowed. “Same.” He cocked his head to the side. “Drink?”

Monty leaned over and took Miller’s hand, threading his fingers with his. “There’s nothing I’d like more.”