#this is the closest to casual wear i’ve seen him

[pinklink130]

this is THE best and funniest fit i have ever put link in. rock climbing hipster survival reality show host. he still looks gay in the straightest clothes he owns

[wayfayrr]

aaaaaaahhh all i can think of is like- most isekai fics I've seen for some reason [i mean understandably] the reader is wearing their pajamas, but after visiting the modern world they can finally show the chain what they actually like wearing, [i can see this going in so many ways, depending on who is reacting, and especially depending on what aesthetic the reader likes to dress in. for the sake of the request ill keep it as dark academia, cause i love it so muchhhh [not so much in the summer, but i make it work lol] with time? [just imagining reader with a tie and just wearing business casual w a trenchcoat frrrrrrrr- might draw this kind of thing and send it to you lol]

Anon I hope you know this ask had me in an absolute chokehold. OUJDFNBJNF ✨I LIVE FOR DARK ACADEMIA AESTHETICS!!!✨ My trenchcoat is one of my favourite things I own. So I get your pain in summer as well 🥹

“Hey Time, have you seen Wild anywhere? He borrowed my laptop and I really need it back.”

“I haven’t sorry [nam]-... Is that what you wear normally? You look incredible.”

“Pretty much, yeah? Why, is there an issue with it?”

Time’s blushing. Is what I’m wearing really that impressive because I know he’s not blushing over what I’m wearing being revealing. A trenchcoat that goes down to my calves with the rest of my clothes? Does he just think I’m attractive or something? 

“No, no issue. You look good in it, it’s just very different to what you arrived in Hyrule wearing.”

“I know, like I said then those were my pyjamas. These are my casual clothes.”

Well, his blush has only gotten worse from that, so he is clearly struggling with how my clothes look on me. Dark academia doesn’t exist in Hyrule I know that, but really he’s struggling far more than anyone else has with my fashion sense. 

“Do you think you could help me choose some clothes like that? I’d like to match wit.. I think that style would suit me.”

“If you’d like, we can go shopping for you later. After I get my laptop back and finish off this report I have due.”

Laughing at how he's stumbling over himself to ask me these questions simply isn't an option, no matter how hard it is to hold myself back. He's asking so genuinely and so sweetly and who knows maybe getting some new clothes could help him adjust to this world more easily, I mean it certainly helped me when I was in Hyrule. How different could it be for time?

It didn't take too long to find wild after talking to time, and even less to finish off the work I had to do, now it’s just down to taking time shopping.

“So you want to look like you belong with a shot of espresso in an artisanal coffee shop while writing a research paper?”

“I only know what half of those words mean [name.], even less with how you’re using them.”

“Right, sorry. I’m still getting used to all of the differences in our cultures. Hopefully, you’ll get more used to the terms we use here sooner rather than later. Ready to go out though?”

“I am, it’ll be nice to get some new clothes. Not that I’m complaining about the excuse to wear yours.”

The nearest place that sells things like these isn’t exactly the closest to where I live, making it the perfect opportunity to adjust Time to my world’s transport. Well, more than he’s already seen anyway. Actually, now that I’m thinking about this, what size clothing even is he? Not that it’s an issue but not knowing a vague size is gonna mean he’s going to have to try on a lot of different fits. Then finding the right colours for him is a whole different challenge… And we’re already here… Time to find out the answers to those questions of mine.

“Where would you like to start?”

“A coat exactly like yours perhaps?”

“I don’t see why not. Any colour in mind or just the same style?”

A shrug was NOT what I wanted as an answer, but he does know what he wants which means that I’ve got somewhere to start. Trench Coats are somewhat pricey but with how some of the others are chipping in towards living costs now there’s no issue with spending out occasionally. He seems to be gravitating more towards things that are similar to mine, isn’t that charming? He sees something he likes on me then decides that’s what he wants for himself hopefully, he just stays away from the expensive ones. 

“You ready to try those on then, old man?”

“Just a moment more love, I can’t find quite the right colour yet.”

He just… How red is my face right now? It has to be crimson, doesn’t it? That’s the first time Time’s ever called me something like that naturally it’s when he’s looking at clothes like my own, is he trying to kill me with his charms?

[arlathavellan]

Phantom Pains | I

Fandom: ACOTAR

Pairing: Azriel x Reader

Reader: she/her, (3/4-High Fae, 1/4-Tartera), Y/N used

Genre: Fluff, Angst, Hurt/Comfort

Word Count: 2.5k

Something is... wrong. Time missing, memories missing, thoughts missing. Wondering where things both big and small disappeared to, like the dress you were working on or even the past seventeen hours of your day. Something is very wrong, and the thought seems to slip your mind as soon as it comes. || Azriel has been a part of your life for years now, and has been courting you since the fall of Hybern. Only, things don't seem to be as simple as you'd both assumed they'd be. It seems someone thought you were the weak link-- the easy ticket to infiltrating the inner circle through its spymaster. And maybe you are.

|| Next Part | Masterlist ||

Velaris was always a sight to behold at night. Well, it was always a sight to behold regardless of the time, but something about the blanket of night just suited the city.

Your feet drag slightly as you walk, the fatigue of the day creeping up on you as you make your way home. A large basket weighs your arms down, your fingers barely able to interlock on the other side. The last errand for the night before you can bunker in and sleep until dawn. Well, maybe even a little later than that.

The city is still alive around you; though people are careful to give you room lest they knock your package from your arms. Your eyes barely peeked over the top, even with your chin lifted high, just to be sure you won’t run into anyone who isn’t paying attention. Your routine seemed to be predictably well-known by the residents in the area.

Routine was good, it meant you would know if something was wrong. And, as you come up upon the steps leading to your shop, your favorite part of the night comes. A shadow casts over you from behind, and the familiar sensation of a gentle sentient darkness winds itself up your waist to mingle with your own shadows.

“Allow me,” a gentle voice says.

The weight of the basket is suddenly gone, and you look over your shoulder at your new aide.

“Good evening, Azriel,” you greet, resting your hand in the crook of his offered elbow as he leads you up the stairs.

“Good evening, Y/N.” His smile is soft, not at all like the cold mask he’d wear when you first met.

His wing closest to you curls out slightly, acting as a barrier against the street traffic to make sure no one would bump into you. No one ever did, of course, but you weren’t going to complain about the gesture.

“It’s heavier than last week.”

He tests the weight with a slight bounce as you smile up at him. “Not too much, I hope. I’ve been getting more orders than usual since a certain High Lady was seen wearing one of my dresses on a very casual stroll through the markets.”

The brief puff of his chest doesn’t escape your attention as you reach the top of the stairs. “Our High Lady is certainly a patron of the arts.”

You bump into him lightly, but it does nothing to affect his stride. “Well, thanks to her generosity, I’ve found myself in need of assistance filling orders. I met my new seamstress at lunch today to get to know her; she starts in the morning.”

An utterly soft expression comes over his face, hazel eyes shining as he looks down at you. The walk to your shop was never more lovely than when he was at your side, telling you as much about his day as possible.

When you finally make it to your shop it seems all too soon. Never one to risk overstaying his welcome, Azriel sets the basket down on the front desk before turning to take your hand, placing a kiss on your knuckle.

“Until tomorrow,” he says, breath hot against your skin.

“Until tomorrow.” Your hand follows his for as long as possible as he backs into a dark corner, a sudden coldness replacing his warmth as he leaves for wherever he is needed next.

“One of these days,” you sigh to yourself. “I’ll get you to at least stay for tea before you leave.”

~~

When you first arrived at Velaris, you could only dream of your shop being a staple of the city. Even five years ago you wouldn't have imagined the High Lady of the Night Court wearing one of your gowns just to support you; at the request of the man courting you nonetheless.

You started as a barely-paid aid, working off your family’s debts to the store owner. She was an old, haughty woman who tended to look down her nose at lesser fae like your half-tartera father, and by extension yourself, but even she couldn’t deny a hundred years of your beautiful work.

Even still, you were shocked when the store passed to you upon her death. It was a bit of a struggle, keeping it afloat by yourself during the last decade of Amarantha’s reign of terror. But now, the city was healing after yet another war, and with a little support from the fae who had been courting you, your business had never been better.

The bell above the shop’s door chimes, and you lean back to see your new employee.

“Amaria!” you call, catching her attention.

She smiles as she sees you and makes her way behind the counter to join you.

“Good morning, Y/N. I hope I’m not too late, I don’t have too much experience on this side of town.” The fae woman sits in the chair next to you, her copper braid sliding off her shoulder and falling at her back.

“No worries, I’m just getting an early start on some mending. Care to join me?” You lean across the table to slide a box towards her.

She takes it gracefully, lifting the blouse inside of it to find the damage. A small hole along the seam of the left arm catches her eye, and she picks up the matching spool of thread you’d left in the box.

You find yourself watching her thread a needle from your kit out of the corner of your eye, your own work stopping for a moment. It takes about three pokes for the thread to pass through, and you’re back to your own patching before her eyes turn towards you.

“If you don’t mind me asking; didn’t you mention an influx of dress orders at lunch yesterday? I’m sure those pay better than fixing some shirts.”

A smile pulls across your lips as you tie off your thread. “These customers were here first. I love making my own gowns, but if it weren’t for the people asking me to mend their clothes, the store would have been out of my hands decades ago.”

Amaria hums in response, focusing intently on the garment in her hands. Lithe and elegant, she almost reminds you of a spider weaving a web as she works the needle between long fingers. The two of you work for hours with the occasional work-related conversation until all of the garments sent in for mending are carefully folded on the far end of the table, client tags attached.

You roll your shoulders back, sighing at the accompanying crackle. “What would you say to a lunch break before we get started on those orders?”

A light, airy laugh is your response as Amaria follows your lead in standing from the table. “I had worried you might be the type to work until your body said otherwise.”

You can’t help your smile as you lead her out of the shop. “Oh, I do some days. I just don’t want to scare you off on your first day here.”

She falls in step with you, and you walk a little faster than normal to meet a compromising pace for the both of you. The streets are busy around this time of day, and your shadows dance around your feet when another fae walks too close.

Amaria breaks the silence as the two of you walk to the cafe you’d met her at yesterday. “You mentioned your father was tarteran, correct?”

“And one of the best jewelsmiths in the Court,” you answered. “He made quite a living before my mother fell ill.”

“So why dresses? If you don’t mind me asking.”

You focused on the steady fall of your feet as the two of you walked down the cobbled street. “It started out of convenience. My mother was a seamstress, so I had easy access to training, and could help with her work as her condition got worse. Eventually, I took over for her so she didn’t have to worry about that kind of thing in the few years before she passed.”

A silence fell between you, so you sent her a smile to quell the apprehensive look you noticed on her face. “I don’t mind talking about it. I’ve had my time to grieve, and will gladly take any opportunity to talk someone’s ear off about them. Keeps their memory alive.”

She tries to return your smile, but you can tell it isn’t completely there.

“What of you? Family or profession, whichever you’re comfortable sharing.”

Amaria’s gaze flickers up towards the horizon, and the pause before she speaks has you on the edge of backtracking. “My parents died when I was young; my siblings as well. I was taken in by a family friend who paid for sewing lessons so I could make dresses for myself and his daughter. We were originally in Spring, but tensions during the war had us moving up here with his sister to escape the fighting.”

Her words are tense, almost feeling rehearsed with their near-monotonous tone. An uneasy feeling in your gut has you redirecting the conversation as you approach the cafe.

“Well, as painful as our journeys may have been, I'm glad they led us here. What better place to make your dreams come true than the City of Dreams itself?” You catch another not-quite smile as you lead her inside.

~~

After lunch, you and Amaria fall into a steady rhythm working on an order for Morrigan as the sun begins to set. You’d only met her a few times since Azriel had begun courting you, but she was a frequent patron and always paid more than fair. One of her requests had even led to a collaboration between yourself and Neve to design both gown and jewelry to complement each other. You’d always longed for connections in the Palace of Thread and Jewels, and her shop reminded you of your late father.

“I’ve heard tales of our great Inner Court,” Amaria says, working on the hem of Morrigan’s flowing skirt. “I never thought I’d be making something for them, especially not on my first day.”

You flash a smile as you arrange the fabric for the bodice on the dressform you’d had made for her. “Morrigan and Lady Feyre have been more than generous in their support. They’re actually the reason I needed to hire another pair of hands; everyone wants to see what’s so special about a gown to be worn by the High Lady herself.”

Amaria hums in response, and you’ve gotten the impression it's something she does often.

“And the others?” Her voice has you peeking over your shoulder, but her face is practically buried in the skirt. “The High Lady’s sisters, or the High Lord’s brothers?”

A slight tug at your lips betrays you as you think of your shadowsinger. “I get some repairs from them, but I don’t believe any of them have the taste for my gowns.”

Her laugh is light and airy, and you can hear the spring court in her. A few pins later, and you stepped back to get a better vantage on the pleats of the chest. A quick look over your shoulder showed that Amaria was finishing up the hem.

“Well, I believe this is a good place to call it a night.”

She looks up at you, blinking to clear her eyesight. “I don’t think I’ve sewed for this long in ages.”

You laugh as she stretches and curls her fingers. “If we don’t stop here I might end up working through the night, sleep be damned.”

Sighing with a smile, she stood from her chair and worked the strain out of her back and arms.

“Would you mind if I walked you home?” You asked, closing up your pins. “It’s getting dark out, and I know you mentioned getting turned around this morning. I can drop off some of the repairs we did as well.”

Her expression turns to shock for a moment, but fades to a grateful smile. “It would be much appreciated. I can’t say I’m too familiar with navigating the market squares at night.”

The night is cool and the walk is pleasant. Amaria is easy company, and you find the two of you don’t need to make much conversation. You even get to introduce her to a few customers, and they take to her easily. 

Her apartment is at the back of a c-shaped complex, through a brief alleyway that opens into a shared courtyard.

“It’s beautiful,” you appraise, looking up at the large tree in the center as you pass. The last fading light of sunset filters through its leaves.

“I was fortunate to find this place. The neighbors are kind, and good company on sleepless nights.” Her voice is gentle, like she’s already more at home in the courtyard than she was in the streets of Velaris.

A sentiment you understood all too well.

“Thank you, Y/N. For walking me home.”

You smile at her as she reaches her door, and she returns it brightly. ”I’ll see you in the morning, then?”

Her head dips into a low nod. “Until then.”

The courtyard is silent as her door closes behind her. A night chill settles on your shoulders like a cloak, and you find yourself shivering as you enter the alleyway. It was getting late, which meant your shadowsinger would soon make his appearance. Feeling light and giddy, your pace is enthusiastic as you make your way back to your shop and home.

There weren’t many people out tonight, those that were awake likely seeking something in one of the districts. Your feet slow despite yourself, a sluggish feeling overcoming your body as you come to a stop in the middle of the street

The light behind you is partially blocked, and you feel the hair on the back of your neck prickle as your shadows swirl in a panic at your feet. Every survival sense in your body screams at once as spindly fingers enter your peripheral vision, caging your head. A feeling of claustrophobia overwhelms your senses, and suddenly every inch of you is paralyzed. All you can do is squeeze your eyes shut tight at the sudden pain blooming in your head.

When your senses return, it's to the sound of wings. You inhale like you’ve been stuck underwater, swaying on your feet as the blackness in your vision recedes, showing the streets of Velaris once more.

“There you are!” Azriel calls, landing in front of you and grasping on your shoulders as you sway on your feet.

The heel of your palm digs into your temple as you wince at the volume of his voice.

“Are you alright?” His hands and shadows both brush against you, searching for any obvious injuries.

You blink the fog out of your eyes and steady yourself against him. “I’m… I’m okay. Just got lightheaded for a moment.”

A familiar, comforting feeling of silence surrounds you as arms and wings alike shield you from the world. “I was waiting for you by the bridge, but it was starting to get late. What’re you doing out here?”

You swallow a lump in your throat as you regain your bearings. Recounting your deliveries and how you walked Amaria home, you notice the sky is much darker than it was a moment ago. Azriel’s brows are pinched, his thumb running from your temple to cheek.

“Let me take you home?” Both an offer and plea, one you don’t plan on denying.

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

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[toasterbunnicula]

Mass Effect Character Sexualities because I want to project

(Partly headcanon, bi-ased, personal opinion)

Ashley: straight, formerly homophobic until she realized that most of her Normandy crew mates were gay

Garrus: bi energy, its simply unfair to our gay guys for such an amazing and hot character to not go both ways. Ive also seen too much Garrus/Thane/Shepard fanart to see him any other way

Liara: obviously bi, I hc that she was confused when she first encountered homophobia because it simply doesn’t exist in asari culture (closest thing is the asarixasari stigma)

Wrex: for some reason I see him as bi? I have no idea where I got this but I want to see a tough, old warrior casually mentioning being into both men and women and not caring at all about it (even though I think krogan culture probably wouldn’t approve)

Tali: for my sake as a helpless bi simp, I see her as under the umbrella, but doesn’t realize it. Like me before I came out, Tali would say “yeah she’s really pretty and I want to hang out with her and hug her and stare at her but I’m not gay or anything.” You are. You are gay. I think it would be in character for her to completely miss the fact that she’s into girls as well as men

Joker: straight. The kind of straight to make jokes about his friends’ sexualities, but not mean anything by it. He goes to pride every June with his wife EDI (who I will get to)

Jacob: I honestly can’t believe that he was originally intended to be bi, I just can’t see him into men unless I squint. It’s hilarious that they tried to make his male romance more like Brokeback Mountain so it’d be accepted

Miranda: I’ve seen a headcanon on Pinterest about Miranda having internalized homophobia because it doesn’t line up with her view of genetic perfection, something she’s established to be insecure about. I think it would make perfect sense for her character. I think it’s easy to see her as a lesbian practicing het-comp, especially with how awkward her initial flirting with Shepard is, but there are more scenes in her romance that feel authentic than there are that feel performative, so I’m inclined to say she is bi/pan/omni/etc.

Mordin: I’m pretty sure his asexuality is canon. I also think that he’s aromantic as well, but can objectively assess beauty/attractiveness well. For example, his film noir short story in the Citadel DLC involves a hookup with Aria. I personally believe that is him saying “yeah, she’s attractive, and if I were into women, I’d smash”

Zaeed: he gives off straight uncle who would punch a homophobe for you but otherwise doesn’t know how to interact with you after you’ve come out and tries a little too hard to acknowledge your sexuality but it’s definitely well-meaning (think the “anyone could be they!” scene from Brooklyn Nine-Nine)

Grunt: straight and supports his bi parents (Shepard and Garrus/Thane/Tali/Liara), wears rainbows at Pride for them, and regularly headbutts homophobes

Jack: I’m forever salty about them erasing her pansexuality. Also she and Miranda should’ve kissed

Kasumi: also gives off pan energy. She definitely feels like the type to not care about gender at all- as long as they’ve got muscles, that’s all that matters to her

Thane: pan energy

Samara: as established, Samara is bisexual

Legion: ace, non-binary (goes with people using he/him based on its masculine voice, pronouns are they/it)

Kelly: she said so herself, she doesn’t care about race/species or gender, all that matters is the person 💖💛💙

EDI: something about Sentient AI Who People Initially Don’t Trust Until She Gets A Humanoid Body That People Can Better Associate With Her reads to me as a trans allegory. Obviously, she’s not trans, but the vibes are there. Many times, people are suspicious of trans women until they transition and pass more as cis, which is similar to EDI’s story. She learns more about herself after her body changes, and others start to appreciate her more and have an easier time referring to her with she/her pronouns. As for her sexuality, she doesn’t seem to lean any particular way to me. She doesn’t seem like the type who’d use labels, even though it would make sense for her to “categorize” herself. I’d say she’s unlabelled- definitely into men, with her relationship with Joker

James: as much as I wish we could get gay gym bro representation, James is great as he is, being a masculine straight guy who’s best friends are openly gay (Cortez) and bi (Shepard)

Traynor: lesbian (canon), definitely into women who can crush her head under their heel but also has a dominant side herself

Cortez: gay (canon)

Diana: that annoying and popular bi girl you secretly had a crush on but didn’t want to because she was intimidating and popular

[chibishortdeath]

Ok, I’m sick of seeing only Netflix posts lately so I’m ranting about Simon lol

Unfortunately I had some nice paragraphs written for this but tumblr crashed while I was writing so this is my second time making this post (TwT)

TL;DR with the rant under a cut for easy scrolling, I am deranged and have studied all of Simon’s outfits, here’s some fun tidbits and I guess kinda a guide about his fashion sense :3

Oh boy, where to start XD. Castlevania has a lot of intricately detailed usually gothic and/or visual kei inspired fashion designs, usually with some amount of historical accuracy, thanks to Ayami Kojima, that the series is known for. But before this, the character design style was very different. From the very 90s shonen anime inspired Richter, to Christopher being deadass shirtless in a skirt at one point, to John Morris being in basically casual clothes, there’s a lot of variety in it.

Well, being the silly Simon super fan I am, I’ve studied all his outfits a ton over the years I’ve been a fan of the series and oh boy they are INTERESTING :3. I’ve noticed a lot of elements are consistently reoccurring, specific to him, and some are very much not specific to him lol. Anyway, just trust me on this one, overanalyzing the closet of an NES barbarian to be able to make new outfits for him is FUN >:3c.

So, I’ve seen him not wearing pants thrown around as a joke before, but it’s actually the truth! Besides the Haunted Castle wedding suit (an outlier that should not be counted lol), I actually have never run into a design where Simon is wearing full length, proper pants. The closest he ever gets is black tights in Simon’s Quest and occasionally shorts, but on that topic, shorts aren’t even his most common choice! Let’s look at some of his oldest designs:

This one is really hard to tell, but based on the angle of the lines, the shadows, and context clues from other art for CV1, I don’t know if that’s actually supposed to be shorts 💀💀💀!

In both his cute little manual doodles and his almost more adorable teeny 8-bit sprite, his outfit is a belted tunic of some sort! So like, the equivalent of a really tiny dress or a long shirt XD. And really, his cover art design is kinda just a more detailed version of these. They both have a distinction between a top and bottom part of the upper half, they both have big belts, they both have the tall boots and arm guards, they both have teeny skirt part, and Fun Fact! They both have red in the hair! I color picked a nice high res scan of the CV1 cover art, and yes, there’s red in his hair!!! It’s like a nice mix of dark reddish blond, it’s a very fun hair color :3.

However, that’s not where CV1 ends in tunic vs shorts debate:

THAT’S A SKORT— DO YOU SEE THAT DISTINCTION BETWEEN THE HALVES, ONE IS DEFINITELY A PANTLEG LMAO. So yeah, skort Simon is also a thing thanks to this particular magazine scan lol, thus leaving us with the possibility that it is both a skirt and shorts on the CV1 cover that he’s wearing X,,,,D. Never change, Simon, never change.

Besides the tunic, there’s some other interesting details to his CV1 era designs! :D In a lot of depictions he has this neat cape, something that returns in some Simon’s Quest art and Smash Bros lol, but he’s never shown wearing it in game. What’s interesting is that Trevor actually gets a cape in his game’s opening as well as Christopher in Belmont’s Revenge if I’m remembering correctly. It’s very neat seeing Simon character design details rubbing off into other characters :3. I like to think lore wise that it’s the same cape that’s been passed down to Simon from those two.

He also has the headband! Iconic! But have you noticed the little ball shapes at the ends of the tails? They’re either knots or, infinitely cooler option, beads :D!!!!!!! And I wouldn’t be surprised if they were because that leads me to another design: X68000–

Now this one is one of my favorites :3. It’s kinda like a forward facing version of his original design but with some new details! And his headband gets this cool lookin, intricate distinctly metallic design on it, something I’ve seen a lot of artists simplify to a general crescent moon shape. But it is kinda similar to the shape on his belt buckle, something that I still have no idea what it’s even supposed to be. Also, his arm guards and the thing at the end of his necklace (which may or may not have vampire teeth on it, they could just be metal spikes though) are similar; it makes me wonder if it was an attempt at a tortoiseshell pattern? Filigree? Whatever it is, they’re all matchy matchy about it.

This design also gives him the staple left shoulder pauldron, of which has these huge stitches holding it on and an added belt that connects to his other belt armor. Get used to belts, he has a lot of those X,,,D. What’s really neat about this one’s belt is that he has both a hilt for the family sword but also one for the whip on the other side, and they’re on the wrong sides for drawing the weapon properly 💀💀💀💀. Which is also funny considering his CV1 cover art has the sword on the other side, which is kinda wrong too? Who knows, maybe he’s ambidextrous and just doesn’t care what sides they’re on lol.

The biggest thing I can say about this design though is that a lot of these accessories and armor pieces look homemade, like as if he just took teeth as a trophy himself and strung them on a cord or made a shoulder piece and put it on an already existing belt he had. Adding onto this, there’s also the possible beads on his headband and the cords around his boots (which could be an attempt at a certain actual historical type of shoe that I cannot remember the name of for the life of me rn, in which case would make these not boots and actually corded shoes with very nice big fluffy socks hehe, I am forcing you to imagine him with big fluffy socks—) and yeah! I can see him making his stuff on his own :3. Which is so cool! I love this idea so much, it makes for a lot of things to imagine him doing hehe. Also gives him a hobby??? Yeah :)

No indication of if he’s got shorts or not in this one, maybe I’ll count how many have skirts or shorts and put that at the end of this lol.

But shorts get another point again cause we’re looking at Chronicles:

Oh Chronicles. Well, the first thing I wanna mention is that, this is Ayami Kojima’s design for him, so here we are seeing a very interesting mix of the visual kei style and 80s barbariancore in a way that honestly slays (figuratively and literally). And, surprisingly, there is something historically accurate about this design, and it’s not what you’d probably expect. Based on the width, material, cross rivets, and the buckle on the front, Simon is wearing an actual dog collar. Like, for dogs. Like it’s dog armor used primarily for hunting dogs I just— Again, never change Simon, never change 💀💀💀.

We also see Simon preferring to put his armor on his left side again with the torn in half coat. It’s also somewhat similar to 1600s coats, not really of any specific country in fashion that I can tell, however the sleeve being that short is not accurate, leading me to believe that he probably tore that off too lol. Very Chrom Fire Emblem of you, Simon, and another example of him D.I.Y.—ing things. The basic elements still stay similar to past designs. Shorts, distinct upper and lower half of shirt, belts, armor on said belt, sword and whip hilts, arm armor and tall boots (shout out to the heels on this one), and armor on the left, unfortunately no headband though. But that distinct bottom half to the shirt part of his outfit in this one is defined with… a corset? Yeah!!! That’s a corset!!! Though the proper name for the time period might be a stay or a girdle, but Simon is straight up wearing a belt over a corset. And said corset over a coat. Half of one. Don’t question him—

But the main entries to his 80s bara-barian half of the wardrobe, let’s get to some knightly aesthetic outfits, of which he does have a good amount, starting with SCV4:

Simon’s knightly outfits are usually a similar silhouette as his original tunic look, just in metal this time and in various colors. SCV4 has his armor as gold on the cover, blue on the Japanese cover and manual art, and green in game! And they’re all pretty much the same with mild variations. On the cover art, his shoes are corded sandals with nothing under them, but in game and in most other artwork they are these metallic boots with the classic X shape of the cords baked into them. Some art gives his middle belt armor section this cross with snakes on it, which is an odd thing to be referencing here. It’s either a staff of Mercury, usually associated now with medicine but was an alchemical symbol before that, or something else I can’t find any info on. There’s also a big ab window because these are all proper half shirts lol. Straight up a metal breastplate with nothing under it, a pretty bad idea tbh 💀.

All in all, these are generally really simple, but there’s one more thing before I stop talking about SCV4:

I LOVE this design. It’s this really nice blend of the older CV1 era style and the metal armor of the later ones, very cool. Shout out to the eye creases and the dead stare shadow over his eyes too, they really conveyed the effects of witnessing the horrors well lmaoooo.

Again, tunic, belt, arm guards, headband, the usual, but, speaking of symbols, there’s something about this one that’s been driving me nuts forever: I cannot find out what that symbol on his paldrons and belt buckle is!!! It’s this upside down triangle with a bent rectangle missing the bottom line over it and it LOOKS distinctly intentional, but I can’t find it or what it means anywhere!!! I tried searching through lists of alchemical symbols, religious symbols, nothing so far has been close (TwT ). Regardless, great design, definitely in my top 5.

And what else is in my top five? Oh yeah babey, it’s Simon’s Quest time:

Ah, Simon’s Quest with his fuck ass bob and the stolen Ravenloft image— but unironically, that armor fucks fr. Again, similar silhouette! If there’s any take aways from this post, it’s definitely that Simon is a little shirt, little pants kind of guy. A severe lack of long sleeves and long pants legs until now, and even then, these are skin tight. Heck even his boots(????) are vacuum sealed, just look at those fabric creases by his ankle!

Now, it’s honestly really hard to tell if his “gloves” and “boots” are supposed to be in some parts metal due to the shading on them and the base armor being very similar. I personally like to depict the forearm and calf parts as metal and the hand and ankle parts as not, but eh. Like most things regarding Simon, I suppose this too is up to interpretation XD. There’s some variation in color in some scans having the underclothes be white, dark blue, or black, and the armor be any range of red to purple to brown too. But towards red and black is probably the most accurate due to his sprite being those colors.

But this is a shockingly rare case of Simon being fully covered in one of his outfits, and I’m inclined to think that there’s probably a reason for that. Not only does he have a rotting curse right now and drawing straight up gore on the cover of an NES game was just not an option lol, but he’s not letting his guard down anymore after being hit. Which would also explain the sudden change to all metal armor as that can’t be cut through as easily as leather.

Speaking of all metal armor, oh I looooove the detailing on his. The gold accents to his byzantine (a nice in between color of red and purple, a color that is also reused in Smash Bros again in the middle corset section of his outfit) are what I would call stylized floral patterns, kinda in the way that fleur de les don’t really look exactly like flowers but still are supposed to represent one. Not sure what kind exactly, but possibly some sort type of angel’s trumpet? Very neat regardless. The gems inlaid in it are all green on top and around the belt, but the center belt buckle is bright red. It’s a very jewel tones color scheme!!!

Well anyway, if tumblr will let me have more images, I’d like to show off a few other random examples of outfit elements he’s had before I close this off with something :3

This was a pretty recently found scan of Simon wearing get this: a pleated miniskirt. Probably Roman armor inspired, as some of his other magazine scans have depicted him as such. One ad for SCV4 and another (live action even) for Simon’s Quest has him even wearing like a Roman helmet and everything, it’s odd. Add helmets to the list of things Simon might wear. Hmm maybe I should make a tier list of things based on how often he’s worn them…

Moving on!

This one goes for the bold choice of giving Simon not only an expected tiny belted tunic, but side slits on the legs! And uh um a little too much detail but uh— It’s also this kinda white, kinda bluish, kinda silverish color? Add this to Simon’s color palette I guess lol.

Which reminds me that I didn’t mention colors very much until now whoops. Throughout all of hie designs he primarily seems to wear neutrals like various browns, greys, and metal tones. But he also has a lot of color. Like as in there’s enough different colored designs to make a whole rainbow of Simon outfits. Common combinations like dark green, gold, and wine reds; blue and silver; brown, gold, orange, and kinda purplish greys; etc etc. And his HAIR. Oh boy, would this guy love modern hair dye X,,,,,D. He’s had it various blonds, reds, browns, even black at one point, blue, green, unnatural red, pink, and in one concept design white! Personally, I like depicting it as a nice in between of red, blond, and brown, it encompasses the most I think.

The final thing I wanna mention is the Smash Bros design, which I unfortunately can’t show because I’m on mobile and have met the 10 images limit whoopsie— (_ _ ;). This design is really a good culmination of a lot of elements. Not really definitive or anything, but very good :3. And it has something I didn’t mention earlier that I’ve noticed in some Simon designs: random belts or metal around his upper arms and thighs lol. The Smash Bros design in particular has the arm band things on both sides, Chronicles has it on the not half coat one, but this is another thing I’ve seen other characters (Christopher in particular, but his are just gold rings) have. The leg thing is less common, but yeah, that exists lol. Thank you Simon for uh bending two pieces of metal around your leg…? It’s cool XD. The corset also makes a return, as well as, once more, the same basic silhouette with the armor only on the left side, the belt armor pieces, etc etc. He’s very particular about that—

Well, anyway, Simon definitely has a vibe going on, but here’s a brief summary of things he seems to like:

Skirts, tunics, long shirts, and shorts (and skorts I guess), but nothing past about half his thigh, generally over the knees.

No long sleeves or pant legs (unless it’s tights when absolutely necessary).

Armor primarily to the left, unless it’s metal, in that case usually a full plate or paldron set.

Belts, hilts, belts on his arms, and neck, and hanging off of things, and legs, yeah belts—

Boots/tall socks, corded or not, and something on his forearms or wrists.

Headband! Seriously out of every Belmont he is the most dedicated to these lol.

Necklaces and beads and other little accessories and adornments are also cool.

Alrighty then, have fun Simon-ing and I encourage you to look through his or other characters’ designs and pick them apart a bit sometimes, even if it’s just through what’s on the wiki :3. If anything, I think it’s a good exercise in character design and consistency! But yeah, I wrote all this late at night and can’t think of anything else rn. If I do I’ll do a sequel I guess hehe. Either that or I might rant about another character hmmmmmmm—

[sinofwriting]

Fanboy's Crush - Tom 'Iceman' Kazansky

Words: 1,029 Summary: Fanboy has a massive crush on Y/N and no one has the heart to tell him that she’s married (To Admiral Kazansky).

Get Added To My Taglist | Masterlist

Fanboy had seen her at the hard deck the first night. She was gorgeous and clearly a regular at the bar if her behavior was anything to go by. He hadn’t really thought anything of it, his eyes sometimes catching on her, but then he heard her laugh and that was that. He knew he had a crush.

It only got worse when the next day, he passed by her on the way to the mess hall. She wasn’t wearing military fatigues, but she was dressed in business wear, reminding him of civilian contractors he had seen before and didn’t that thought do something to him. The idea that this woman with a pretty laugh was smarter enough to be a civilian contractor, who also didn’t mind frequenting navy bars? That seemed like a one in million.

As the days went on, he saw her more and more and even learned her name, Y/N. It was a beautiful name for an even more beautiful girl. And he knew that everyone could tell he had a thing for the woman.

Even Maverick had caught on, if the eyebrow he quirked was anything to say. It had made him flush. The snide comments from Hangman had been bad enough, but their instructor of all people knowing about it made him keep his eyes low, not wanting to catch his attention.

And then during their next class, they had a guest and his heart dropped when he saw it was Y/N and the familiarity between the captain and her. It was just his luck that the girl he liked was most likely involved with Maverick. And he couldn’t blame her for a second.

It wasn’t until after class ended and she had left that a small bit of hope returned when Phoenix teased Maverick about the woman.

He laughs at the joking comment, catching Phoenix’s wink. “She's one of a kind, Phoenix. Closest thing I’ve had to a sister.”

The whole time they spend training for the mission, he splits his time between training and pining. Staring after the beautiful woman every time they cross paths and stuttering out hellos. He swears he nearly faints the first time he hears her say his call sign.

He paid her so much attention that he’s not totally sure how he missed what he’s currently seeing.

Everyone had been invited to Mav’s. The man wanting to celebrate the mission going well and them getting a bit of time off before their next missions were given. He had failed to mention that Admiral Kazansky would be attending, which had them all standing straight and wishing they weren’t wearing such casual clothes. And he’d failed to mention that Y/N would be attending.

She had been who he had first spotted, only straightening a second later than his other pilots at the sight of the admiral.

“Admiral Kazansky.” Hangman greets, before saluting the man, which makes everyone follow. Though Rooster’s is a little lazy. He stares at them, before cracking a smile. “At ease. I’m just here to celebrate with you guys. And please call me Iceman or Ice.” Payback fidgets next to him, “Sir, I don’t think,” He starts, but Y/N cuts him off. “Just ignore him, Payback. You guys should call him Iceman though. Hearing the words sir and Admiral Kazansky will get a little tiring.” Rooster nods, stepping out of the uniform line. “Sounds good to me.” He then in a move surprises all of them, steps forward and claps the older man on the shoulder. “Good to see you, Uncle Ice. Been a few years.” The older man smiles, clapping him back. “It's not my fault, was it baby goose?” Rooster flushing at the nickname makes Hangman break out of his daze.

“I’m sorry, Uncle Ice?” Rooster turns back around to roll his eyes. “Yes, Hangman?” He shrugs, before shaking his head. “Just realized how much of a legacy kid you are.” The words make Rooster groan but Y/N lets out a laugh at them. “He’s not wrong, Bradley. Quite the legacy to live up to.” She teases him. “Shut up, Aunt Y/N.” The word aunt is mocking and it makes her nose wrinkle. “I’m barely ten years older than you.” “More like fifteen.” He coughs, and every pilot can’t help but have their eyes glued to Y/N to see what her reaction will be.

They don’t expect the way she starts to put and turn to the man she’s standing next to. “Do you hear what’s coming out of his mouth? He’s trying to say I’m fifty.” A few eyes bulge at that. The woman looked a hell of alot younger than forty-five. He chuckles, “Honey, I’m going on sixty, I think you can handle it.” Her eyes narrow, glaring playfully. “I should’ve listened to Mav when he said not to marry you.” And Fanboy nearly chokes at that, blanking out the rest of the conversation and only coming out of his head when Payback shakes him lightly sometime lately.

“You good, man?” Fanboy looks around and sees that no one else is too close to them. “She’s married to Admiral Kazansky. How did I miss that?” “No idea. We all figured it out pretty quickly.” His mouth drops. “You all knew?” Payback makes a face, realizing what he said. “Well,” he sighs. “Rooster mentioned her last name being Kazansky we kind of all connected the dots.” “Where was I?” “Bathroom.” “And no one thought to mention it?” “None of us had the heart to. It would’ve been like kicking a puppy. And besides I know you well enough to know that while you daydreamed about being with her, you would have never in a million years gone for it.” Fanboy ends up nodding, because yeah it was true. He had never really considered asking her out. Not just because he felt that she deserved better, but he didn’t really care for relationships, and had never really been good in the romance department.

“Still wish you had told me.” He mutters and Payback laughs. “Next time I will.” “Next time? What do you mean next time?”

[lesvegas]

New Vegas - Now Under New Management!

In 2301, the city of New Vegas had been a raiders’ paradise for nearly twenty years. A week after the murder of his best friend, Auguste follows up on a lead at Gomorrah, determined to avenge him.

Chapter 2: Feed Me Now [ao3 link]

Wearing a bright red suit all the time had more pros than cons. While some might consider it tacky, none could deny that it was eye-catching and iconic. One glance at me and you knew you were looking at Auguste. The colour also resembled old-world warning signs in more ways than one; this suit was a red-alert to anyone who tried to start shit with me. Stand in my way, piss me off, so much as give me a rude look and I’ll have twenty securitrons on your ass before you can think to spit on my shoes.

Like a vibrant but venomous pre-war animal, people knew to stay the hell away from me unless they had business. Crowds parted in the street for me, and raiders who thought they were oh so scary made way for their soon-to-be king, allowing me to cross from the Tops to Gomorrah with ease. The only ones who didn’t move were the guys who were so fucked up they were passed out or dead, but they were easy to step over. Or step on.

Opening the door to Gomorrah’s front lobby, I was hit with the smell of cheap smoke. It tended to linger in here. Gomorrah was the stuffiest casino around, and it made me loosen my tie a little.

The greeter was as courteous to me as always, flashing a smile even though he fucking hated his job. I couldn’t tell if he’d always worked here or if he was a reformed raider. Whatever family ran this place before was long gone, and I didn’t even hear them get mentioned much. I just smiled back at him and walked on in with my silenced 12.7mm. I never let anyone take my gun from me, not since I got it on my thirteenth birthday. Not even my own father could take it from me.

I skipped the casino floor and entered the main Brimstone club. The stage was crowded around what seemed to be a new girl having her first dance. I only watched her half-assed moves for a moment before approaching the bar and ordering a new pack of smokes. The second I had it, I emptied the little box to refill my cigarette case, then handed the emptied vessel to the bartender to toss. I left a few caps as a tip to be polite, but I didn’t pay. Everything I ever asked for went straight to Fresno’s never-ending tab.

Sufficiently restocked, I went around the bar and through the door up to the next level without a second glance from the guards. Zoara Club was a nice little private lounge for important people only, overlooking the stage below. But I never came up here for the view.

The office doors were always locked, but the pool tables were always available. There were only two people besides me that I’ve ever seen play the game correctly: my father, and Cal.

Cal might have been the closest thing I had to an uncle. He was something of a family friend, having known both my father and Fresno since before I was born. He and Fresno used to be an item (I can’t really imagine that), and he and my father still met up to play games sometimes. Usually pool, chess, or poker. They both taught me how to play, but Cal was the one who taught me how to cheat. While my father got me my first gun, Cal got me my first Stealth Boy. He used to be the go-to babysitter when I was too small to be left alone, despite being one of the busiest men in the city, and I had fond memories of him showing me how to hack a terminal or pick a lock.

But tonight, he was playing pool, and only casually watching the stage now and then. While he wasn’t as hands-off as Fresno, he did have a casual attitude to running Gomorrah. He let the whores do their own thing for the most part, and he’d been on good terms with the best chem suppliers in the region for years now, enough to let them have their own small-time dealers sell in certain parts of Brimstone. He mostly just needed to make sure people actually paid for services and that nobody got hurt.

“What do you think?” Cal asked me as I approached the pool table. He was bent over the table, lining up a shot for the solid 7-ball.

“Of the girl?” I asked, then looked down to the stage again. “Well… she looks nice, I guess. They seem to like her. But she looks like she’s got no idea what the hell she’s doing.”

“I know.” Cal struck the cue ball which rolled into the 7-ball, sinking it in one clean shot. That left only the striped balls and the 8-ball. “She insisted on going up without any training. Said she used to dance in Primm.”

“I didn’t know Primm had dancers.” I said, then grabbed a pool cue for myself. “Maybe she’ll learn the hard way when she makes shit tips.”

“Maybe.” Cal said, then stood straight to let me have a go. “How’ve you been holding up?”

“Just peachy.” I said, leaning over the pool table. I could sink the 9-ball, I think. It was close enough to a hole, but a bit far from the cue ball. Still, I tried to take the shot anyway. The cue ball hit the side of it, but only managed to nudge the ball closer to the hole. “I’d be happier if I had a name.”

“Didn’t your dad ever teach you about patience?” Cal teased with a slight smile that I couldn’t be mad at, even if I still felt like killing someone tonight. He glanced around a little before positioning himself to take the 9-ball from me. “Fine, let me break the tension. I don’t have a name yet.”

Fuck.

“S’alright.” I said quietly, but it was incredibly obvious how disappointed I was. I really came in here expecting to know exactly who to hunt down and destroy.

Now why did I expect Cal of all people to figure out who shot Brutus for me? Simple, really: Cal used to go by Callipho, and he used to be one of the best spies in Caesar’s Legion. Specifically, he used to be one of those fru… froo… whatever that would work undercover in Vegas. He’s half the reason the family that used to run Gomorrah aren’t around anymore, according to him. 

Cal wasn’t a friend of the old Legion, though, no way. He used to tell me all these stories of how these Caesar guys were real sticks in the mud at best; they couldn’t even drink or smoke. No fucking wonder they’d take their frustration out on their women. Oh, and they were pretty fucking brutal, even as far as raiders go. Cal had the scars all over his back to prove it. He dipped the moment Fresno gave him the opportunity.

“Aw, c’mon, don’t look so miserable.” Cal said, setting his pool cue aside. The game wasn’t over, but he began taking the balls out of the holes anyway. “Just because I don’t have a name doesn’t mean I don’t know who did it.”

I perked up at that. “Really?”

“Sure. Look,” He began arranging the balls on the table in a peculiar way, then laid out two pool cues parallel to each other. It took me a moment to figure out the pool cues were the Strip itself, the solid balls were buildings, and the striped balls were people. Save for the white cue ball in the middle next to the red-striped 15-ball. “You said it happened when you and Brutus were walking back to the Tops from Vault 21, right?”

“That’s right.” I said. The blue 2-ball must be Vault 21, then. “It was getting late.”

“So you were both heading this way.” Cal said, pushing the balls that represented us forward a little. “Brutus was on your right as you headed North. And he was shot in the back of the head at a downward angle.”

“I recall.” I said bitterly.

“So…” He picked up the yellow 1-ball and the green 6-ball. “The shot could’ve only come from one of two places. The old NCR embassy, or the Ultra-Luxe.”

Oh. 

Oh, I was a fucking idiot for not realizing this sooner. “And, considering the NCR Embassy is pretty damn small…” Cal set the 6-ball down and tossed me the 1-ball. I fumbled, but caught it. “I think it’s safe to assume that a Jackal took the shot.”

I stared down at the yellow-striped ball in my hands. I only just noticed it had a slight chip in it. I wondered if that made it unbalanced enough to make a difference in-game. Is that why Cal always picked the solid balls?

“How long did it take for you to figure that out?” I asked.

“Honestly? Not long at all. But I still wanted to rule a few things out before I told you.” Cal admitted. “I still don’t actually know who in the Ultra-Luxe did it. Hell, it might not’ve even been a Jackal. But…”

I looked at him. He took the ball back.

“Kid, let me give you some advice…” I could already tell I wasn’t gonna like what he was about to say. “Sometimes it’s better to let things be.”

“You cannot be serious.”

“I’ve never been more serious in my life.” Cal said, beginning to clear off the pool table. “Listen, the Jackals are huge. Like, Khans-level huge. They weren’t always huge, but they are now. They’re not just a small-time raider gang, alright? Fresno didn’t give them a whole casino just because they asked nicely. If one of ‘em had no problem shooting your dog, what do you think they’re gonna do to you if you go in there and start throwing a tantrum?”

So fucking what if the Jackals were huge? This was my city. Brutus was my dog. If I have to convince my father to convince Fresno to make the securitrons mow them all down, I will. I’ll fucking find a way somehow. But maybe I’ll give them a chance, first. Go over there right now and tell them to hand over whoever did it, spare the rest. I could be merciful.

Cal sighed. “For the love of God, do not go to the Ultra-Luxe.”

“I’m going to the Ultra-Luxe.”

I returned the pool cue to its place on the wall, and started to leave only for Cal to follow right behind me. He was still talking, but I wasn’t really listening. What he said did make sense, but I was beyond the realm of rational thinking right now. I had a whole week’s worth of pent-up rage and grief to unleash on some unlucky Jackal and I wasn’t about to let him stop me.

But then he stood right in front of me in the doorway at the bottom of the stairs.

“Cal, move.”

"Listen.” He hissed. “If this is really that important to you, I’ll help. But we’re doing things my way, got that? Let me do the talking and we’ll figure out who took the shot without riling up the entire casino. Alright?”

I stared long and hard at him. I breathed in, held it, and exhaled softly. I wasn’t just sweating from the humidity in here. I shoved my hands in my pockets when I noticed how shaky they were. I counted backwards from ten in my mind, and it was clear for a moment.

“Fine.” I said after a while. “But we’re doing this tonight. And I need a smoke first.”

The Ultra-Luxe was the biggest and most upscale casino on the Strip, even after its current occupants made a fucking mess of it. The Jackals didn’t run the place nearly as well as Cal ran the Gomorrah and the Chairmen still ran the Tops, but that was supposed to be part of the ‘appeal’. It was all one big joke, this group of lowborn scavengers running a gorgeous hotel and casino. Even as far as raiders go, they were some of the lowest of the low; they used to be known for picking people clean after fire fights in the desert, and being dirtier than most. Now they were like stupid kids playing house, dressed up in mommy and daddy’s best clothes.

The costume included the masks, naturally. They liked how creepy it made them look. But most of them had broken the bottoms off so they could still show off their sharpened teeth. It was sort of their trademark.

Cal and I had eaten at the Gourmand before, so it wasn’t the weirdest thing when we walked in by ourselves and asked for a table. There were no wait times for people like us; we were seated at a table right in the middle of the dining room almost immediately and given a couple of menus. I requested a bottle of ice-cold Nuka-Cola because I felt like staying sober and didn’t really trust them not to put something in my drink, and Cal seemed to have the same idea when he asked for a bottle of water.

“So what’s the plan?” I asked once the waiter left, pretending to skim over the menu.

“I’m still trying to come up with one.” He admitted. “But I don’t think shooting the place up or searching the entire hotel is the way to go.”

“Agreed.” I said. I had calmed down just enough on the way here that I thought better of it. “I think we…” I trailed off as the waiter returned quickly with our drinks.

“Thanks.” Cal said, then took my menu before handing it to him. “We’ll just start off with some salads. No meat, no dressing. Keep it clean, please.”

Cal withdrew his bottle opener from his coat pocket and opened my bottle for me. Thankfully, it’d been sealed. I took a sip, then spoke again.

“I think we should ask around. Well, no, not ask around, but…” Asking around is the last thing we should do. I meant to say, “Snoop around? But not the whole hotel. But someone has to know something. I say we break into the office of whoever runs the place and ransack the room.”

Cal stared at me. “You don’t even know who runs the Jackals?”

“Why should I?”

Cal just took a drink of water. Fine, stupid question, I should know who runs the Ultra-Luxe. But that wasn’t the same thing as knowing the leader of the Jackals. One was a raider and the other was a business owner. Big difference.

“Maybe you should meet her.”

I gave him a look.

“No, I’m serious.” Cal went on. “I think if anyone around here knew who did it, it’d be her. And she’s smart enough to give up one killer to save her own skin. Again, just let me do the talking and see where that takes us.”

It was the only real lead we had that could possibly save us some time. And I trusted Cal’s opinion on stuff like this. But I still sighed in frustration. “Fine.”

Our salads were brought over promptly. It didn’t exactly take long to prepare what was essentially chopped lettuce, nuts, and shredded carrots. We’ve had meat here before, even pasta drenched in sauce, but tonight was one of those nights where it just felt better not to risk it. And it was pretty difficult to fuck with a plain salad.

I tried a forkful of lettuce and carrots without so much as a drop of dressing. Naturally, it sucked.

“What’s the matter?” Cal teased. “Don’t like rabbit food?”

“Were rabbits ever real?” I asked. Cal just shrugged. If they were, they were before his time, too.

The waiter came back again already. Christ, they usually served us fast, but tonight it was like they knew they were in trouble. “Is everything all right?” He asked after we had, what, one bite?

“Actually, no.” I said, putting my fork down. Of course the salad was awful, but… I got an idea. Cal gave me a look, but I kept talking anyway. “I’d like to speak to the owner. Not the manager, not the chef, the owner. Of the whole casino. Your leader.”

[purplesurveys]

1531

How many friends do you have on Facebook?: I have 698. It hasn’t changed so much from the last time I recall answering this question lol; I tend to be wary of people I add on there, even among people I know.

What was on the last sandwich you ate?: Fried chicken, shredded cabbage, tomatoes.

What sort of music did you listen to when you were in high school?: It was largely punk rock at the start but evolved towards indie and synth pop by the end of my time in high school, largely from the influence of my friends.

Do you prefer gold or silver jewellery?: Silver. Never have been a big fan of gold jewelry so far.

Have you ever gotten back together with an ex?: I have. We also broke up the second time around but not til like four years later.

How far away is the closest store to your house and what is it?: Around 4 kilometers, which is the distance from our house to the entrance of the village/subdivision. There are so many stores and restaurants the moment you step outside hahaha.

What is your favourite Thai dish?: Green curry. < Ohohohoho yes this is a goodie. And I’m a sucker for the classic pad thai too.

How many contacts do you have in your phone?: 188 - which is funny to me because I only talk to like 10 people from that list. I really should clean out my contacts soon...

When was the last time you made out with somebody?: Two years ago.

What month of the year was your mother born?: September.

Do you have any friends that seem to know all the hot gossip?: Sure. But this is also considering the fact that Filipinos are naturally gossip-y at their core, lol. Even if I don’t care for most gossip, I’m almost always just one person away from a bunch of updates.

Are there any candles in your bedroom, and what scent are they?: I do have one, yeah. It was actually a Christmas gift from the company; I just don’t use it much because I find the scent a tad weak. It’s vanilla. What tv show(s) have you been watching currently?: I’ve recently been rewatching Friends. Apart from that, I’ve been meaning to start on Extraordinary Attorney Woo but as usual, it takes me forever to get on a new series.

When was the last time you went to a birthday party?: Yesterday. It was a surprise birthday party for one of my uncles, all the way in Laguna. It was a lot of fun and I was happy to see relatives from that side again.

How many apps do you have on your phone?: I don’t feel like counting the exact number but I can tell you I have three pages’ worth of apps.

What pet names do you use with your significant other?: I don’t have a partner.

Do you have to wear a name badge where you work?: No. I work from home anyway, so there’s been no need for this; my name badge is the one that shows up on my Zoom/MS Teams/Google Meets calls hahaha.

Do you have a dress code or have to wear a uniform where you work?: I mean, nothing out of the ordinary (if we do have to have days at the office). It’s just business casual.

What brand is your toaster, if you have one?: We don’t have a toaster and thanks for not readily assuming that everyone has.

Have you ever dated a smoker? If not, would you?: She didn’t smoke too much whenever we were together, at least. I can’t say for the times she’d be out with her friends. I’d say she was a social smoker at best, which is what I would prefer if my next partner did smoke too. I will say that smoking has stopped bothering me as much as it did before; and at the end of the day my bigger worry has always been the smell of the secondhand smoke clinging to me, tbh.

Are there any movies you've seen so many times?: Yeah, definitely me with a few movies like Titanic, The Proposal, White Chicks, Twilight lol.

What was the last thing you purchased with cash?: Gas for my car.

Can you hear anything right now?: The occasional sound of Yoongi speaking, since I have a past Vlive of him on; also my REALLY REALLY loud aircon hahaha.

Is there anybody else in the room you're currently in?: Nope, it’s just me in my room.

What's the name of the store you usually get your groceries?: S&R. Would you rather travel to Japan or Scotland?: I’d rather go back to Japan.

Does your house have a porch/balcony?: We do, yes.

What's your usual order when you go to a coffee shop?: Iced caramel macchiato. I also like anything pastry to go with the coffee.

Have you ever seen a theatre show?: Only school recitals, or shows where my friends/relatives are in. I wouldn’t call myself a fan of theatre and wouldn’t watch a show outside of the two ^ categories.

What was the last movie you saw and who did you watch it with?: Parasite. I finally watched it after two years y’all lmao - I watched the first half alone, but then my sister eventually tagged along with me.

What is your mother's first name?: Abigail.

Do you like to dance?: Yeah. I don’t know how to dance, but I will sway along to the beat of a song I really like.

How would you describe your sense of humour?: It’s what Gen Z would typically refer to as crackhead and dank, lol.

What's your favourite type of bread?: Brioche.

Do you receive catalogues and brochures in your mailbox?: Not really.

What colour is the sky right now?: Gray. Might rain in a few hours since it’s also been offensively humid today.

Do you share a middle name with any of your siblings?: No, we all have different second names. But if you mean maiden name then yeah we share the same.

Have there ever been any bushfires/wildfires in your area?: Nope, not common here.

Have you ever taken a ride in an ambulance?: I have not.

How would you label your sexual orientation?: Ace.

When was the last time you took a nap during the day?: That would have to be last Sunday. I typically would never take naps so I can maximize my free time, but I stayed up super late the night before and just wanted to take that nap lol.

What did you have to eat for dinner last night?: It was the food from the birthday party I went to - we were served a plate of baby back ribs and grilled chicken with rice, with sides of mashed potatoes and corn muffin. We were also given a serving of chocolate mousse after.

Have you ever been a member in a band?: Nope.

Are you double-jointed?: I’m not.

What was the last thing you had to drink?: Coffee.

Do you currently have any bruises on your body?: Nopes, not at the moment. 

Who was the last message you received from and what did they say?: “Hahaha true. To be fair, she’s older,” from Reena. Rough translation from Filipino.

What colour are your eyes?: Dark brown.

Can you cry on command? If so, have you ever used it to your advantage?: Not at all, I’ve never had that skill. But I have used crying to my advantage, largely as a kid when I’d have to report low grades to my parents lol. I didn’t cry on command per se because I genuinely did feel shitty every time I failed a test in such; but at the back of my head I also knew crying would get me off the hook to some extent.

Do you consider your goals easily achievable or are they pretty grand?: Some of them are attainable, some of them need money and are less accessible.

What's your favourite kind of accent?: I don’t care much for accents.

What time does the sun go down where you live at this time of the year?: Around 6 PM.

Do you prefer beer, wine or spirits?: Spirits. Beer is fizzy so that’s an automatic no for me; and I just never liked the taste of wine.

When was the last time you ate Mexican food?: The other night when I got a serving of nachos for me and Kaye.

Have you ever watched yourself on video?: Yes.

What time did you wake up today?: 9 AM.

What time will you go to sleep tonight?: I’ll try to stay up as long as I can because it’ll be the last night of my long weekend that I can do so (I get back to work Tuesday), so most likely around 2 or 3 AM.

Do you have separate emails for personal and business?: Yeah. I was given a company email in the first place.

Are you the eldest, youngest or a middle child?: Eldest.

What's your favourite vegetable?: Broccoli and spinach. Asparagus is also great.

What colours are you wearing today?: Purple and white.

Do you have a subscription to any streaming services like Netflix?: Apart from Netflix, I also have a Spotify subscription. YouTube Premium too but I don’t think that counts as streaming. Would you rather eat Italian or Indian food?: Omggggggg Indian in a heartbeat. My favorite cuisine.

Are you sitting, standing or lying down right now?: Sitting.

Have you ever missed a flight?: I haven’t; but I’ve been on the receiving end of delayed flights a handful of times. I don’t mind it as much if I’m stuck in another country because airports almost always have facilities that can keep me from getting bored -- but getting delayed at a provincial airport in the Philippines can be so exhausting lmao. There’s no airconditioning and wifi most of the time and your only source of entertainment are TVs and OOHs that play the same set of ads on loop. Sometimes the signal can even be weak so you wouldn’t be able to use data to kill time on the internet.

Are you someone who always needs a coffee before you can function?: Yeah. I’m considerably more scatterbrained in the morning if I haven’t made my coffee yet.

Do your neighbours have any pets? Have you ever met them?: Most of them have dogs, yes. But I haven’t had the chance to interact with them.

When was the last time you washed your hair?: An hour ago.

What colour is your bedroom door?: Brown.

Have you ever seen a lunar eclipse?: Sure! They are rarely visible where I live so when one is scheduled to take place and we’d be able to see them, I usually don’t want to miss out.

Do you know your significant other's passwords?: I don’t have a partner now but I used to know a password of my ex.

What was the last thing you said aloud?: It’s been a while since I’ve said anything; I’ve been alone in my room for like an hour now haha. Probably me just asking my sister how much of the baked sushi I can get for my share. Do you know anyone who writes huge essays when they message you?: Andi does.

[phenomenal1500]

~Birds & The Bees~

Masterlist

A/N: This fun one shot was requested by VampireQueen666 on AO3! Thank you so much and I really tried my best to make something out of it even though this kinda sucks so I hope you like it anyway. ♥️

Summary: Aunt May asked Tony to teach Peter about puberty/birds and the bees, knowing that Tony is a hands-on teacher.

Pairing: None. Warning: None, just a slightly awkward "father son" moment.

Aunt May had asked Tony to explain to Peter about the Birds & The Bees and with that puberty too because Tony was pretty much the closest thing he had to a father figure and she thought some bonding was a good idea. And of course since Tony sometimes liked to impress people, especially Peter's aunt, he went with it. He knew a 100% certain that Peter already knew those stuff himself though, he was 16, but he had promised May to do this so he was now softly knocking onto Peter's door with some lunch.

"Hey kiddo, open up." He yelled softly when no one opened up and then began to impatiently knock on his door to irritate him a little.

Peter jumped up from his bed and ran to the door to open it once he woke up from his nap. "Sorry Mr. Stark, I had fallen asleep."

"In the afternoon? You have to stop working night shifts by yourself, Peter." He put down the two plates and checked for any signs he was hurt. Luckily, he wasn't this time. Peter liked to go fight simple crime at night without the Avengers, but sometimes things got out of hand so they had warned the kid to stop it. Of course he's stubborn and still wants to prove himself so it seems he hadn't listened to any of them.

"I didn't get hurt and we have arrested 6 new bad guys." He spoke proudly. "See? I can handle myself."

"Well last time something completely different happened, but fine. As long as you don't get hurt and the city still stands it's fine I suppose." He rolled his eyes and handed him his plate. "Anyway, you know why I'm here?"

"Yeah, Aunt May told me." He hummed and took the plate, thanking him awkwardly. "Thanks, but uh.... I already know those things myself."

"I know, but I promised your Aunt something so I'm gonna keep my word." He took a bite from his sandwich while he casually sat down in Peter's desk chair, shoes resting on top of the kid's desk. "So, you know what? I'm a hands-on teacher so it's better if you take off your shirt and perhaps pants too so I can explain some stuff better." He pointed at his clothes and made a hand gesture they had to go.

Peter however stared weirdly at Tony for a few solid seconds and then tilted his head. "Seriously?"

"Yep, totally serious over here." Tony laughed a bit at his reaction. "We're both guys, right? And I've seen you change into your suit on the spot in battle a hundred times. All of the Avengers have."

"You got a point there." He gave in and pulled his shirt over his head before throwing it in a corner, followed by his pants. "Oh.... Yeah.... That." Peter looked down and laughed a bit since he was still wearing his suit beneath that. Even Tony let out a chuckle.

"You live in that suit, don't you?" He joked and watched him take that off too. "It does show off your ass better than your normal pants, same goes for Steve's suit. Girls must be very jealous of you two."

"I guess so yeah." He laughed and laid his suit down on his bed. "So-...."

"Guys, does anyone want a cookie before you start?" May had just opened the door unfazed, not really surprised her nephew was in his boxers in front of Iron Man, and smiled sweetly while holding up a plate with cookies.

This was gonna be a long talk....

[survey--s]

371.

Does your head hurt when you cry? Not at the time, but if I’ve been crying for a while I do get a bit of a headache.

Who was the last person to comfort you? I can’t remember the last time I needed to be comforted, to be honest.

Are you currently wearing any socks? Nope.

What’s the closest thing to your right hand? Apart from my laptop, the blanket I’m sitting, my phone and a snoring cat.

When was the last time you made a wish? I don’t think I’ve ever seriously made a wish.

Have you ever watched a foreign film with English subtitles? Sure, plenty of times.

When was the last time you wore athletic shorts? Uhhh, I don’t even own any athletic shorts lol, so probably when I was still at school - almost two decades ago ha.

Do you think that in the end, everything will fall into place? I mean, it’s a nice idea, but life really doesn’t work out that way.

What’s the closest transparent object to you? The windows.

What was the last thing you swallowed? A softmint.

Do you like mayonnaise? Did I even spell that right? I love mayonnaise - I’ll honestly eat it with pretty much everything. I love dipping my pizza crusts in it, actually.

Anyways… When was the last time you went out in the rain? Friday. It rained heavily ALL day and typically stopped as soon as I was done with all my dog walks lol. It was utterly grim.

Have you ever seen a Tim Burton movie, like Coraline, 9, etc.? Sure, Coraline, Corpse Bride, both the Alice in Wonderland fims, Nightmare Before Christmas and I’m sure plenty of others.

Do you keep 3D glasses after you’ve left the movie theatre? 3D movies never really caught on, did they? lol. When was the last time you heard a British accent in person? I mean, I am British lol, so everyday.

Who was the last person to unsurprisingly disappoint you? I can’t remember.

Do you know what FTW stands for? Yes.

When was the last time you went bowling? When we went to Blackpool - around six years ago now.

Do you like cats? Sure, we have three of them.

Do you use aerosol hairspray? No.

What was the last food you choked on? I have no idea, probably some toast.

Who was the last person you disappointed? I mean, you’d have to ask other people that.

Do you really miss someone right now? Nope.

Do you think anyone can really reach “Nirvana” at some point? I mean, surely that depends on your definition of Nirvana?

What’s the capital of the state you reside in? Carlisle, technically.

What is the last advice you gave someone? Don’t let him off the lead down there as I’m not coming to help you find him.

Do you ever dip your fingers in wet candle wax? Not really as an adult, but I do love the feeling.

When was the last time you sweat really bad? Friday.

Do you write it, alot or a lot? A lot. Does it annoy you when people are always smiling and happy all the time? I don’t know anyone who behaves like that.

What was the last rule you broke? Speeding.

Have you ever hazed someone or been hazed? No. I think that’s such shitty behaviour.

What is your opinion on abortion? It should be available safely and legally to anyone for free.

Miley Cyrus rings your door bell, and asks for some shelter. You say..? I probably wouldn’t even recognise her, to be quite honest.

What would you say if someone called you at 3 am to have a casual convo? My phone would be on silent at 3am lol.

Have you ever made a SERIOUS typo and couldn’t go back and change it? No.

Have you ever yelled at an authority figure? Sure, my parents when I was a teenager.

When was the last time you had to pee really badly? This morning.

What was the last thing you regretted eating? This ready meal I had for lunch - I ended up chucking most of it.

How often do you get fountain drinks from a gas station? We don’t really have those here anymore.

Do you like screamo music? No.

Do you know anyone with some serious talent? Sure, a few people.

When was the last time you made fun of someone? This morning.

What was the last thing you yelled? I had to shout the dog downstairs earlier.

Will you save all your answers? It’s no fun if you don’t. Sure.

[pctterswprld]

the hidden charms of affection

pairing: draco malfoy x pureblood!ravenclaw!fem!reader

summary: draco lucius malfoy becomes sentimental with his gifts on your birthday.

word count: 768 words

warnings: FLUFF, set during october - fifth year, one kiss...

author's note: might be a few mistakes and i know your middle name might not mean 'butterfly' but this is based off a scenario in my dr! ALSO, i get that canon draco would probably not do this (even though i think he's a romantic at heart because of astoria), BUT LET ME BE DELUSIONAL.

masterlist | navigation

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN you and Draco was unknown to you, him, and many other students at Hogwarts. You have been friends with him since childhood because your families were Sacred Twenty-Nine royalty. Although you didn’t hold the same prejudiced views as Draco, he still valued you as his closest friend. If it were anyone else, they’d be named blood traitors immediately.

Ironic, wasn’t it?

Today was your belated birthday. You received numerous greetings across your year and gifts from your closest friends—the Parvati twins, Hermione Granger, Luna Lovegood, and others. Whilst you enjoyed these gifts, you were waiting for one in particular.

The sun had set quietly during the chilly evening as you stood in the courtyard wrapped in your mother’s knitted scarves. You hadn’t noticed the approaching figure behind you as you stared at the sky, trying to recognise the shapes the clouds formed as they faded.

“What do you see?” A voice spoke, interrupting your thoughts as you turned your head. Beside you was Draco Malfoy himself, wearing his staple black suit (the boy could never wear anything casual) with a smile across his lips. You smiled back, scrunching your nose as you sighed.

“I’ve lost my imagination because of bloody Umbridge,” you guffawed, causing Draco to laugh as you faced him entirely. “I haven’t seen you all day,” you continued, trying not to sound a little hurt as Draco met your gaze.

“Sorry, the post took a little longer than expected,” he replied, his expression apologetic as he pulled a box out of the inside of his blazer. You furrowed your eyebrows, meeting the black box with your gaze.

“What is this?” you asked, raising an eyebrow as you looked at him again. His blue eyes stared back at you, his face still engraved with a subtle grin.

“Well, I wanted to give you something personal this year,” he shrugged nonchalantly, glancing at the box before opening it. Inside was a silver sterling bracelet with a dragon charm in the middle. You widened your eyes, staring at him with amazement.

“H-how much did this cost?” you questioned, your tone baffled.

“It was nothing—”

“Draco…” your voice was stern as he sighed, smiling slightly.

“Around twenty-five Galleons?” he mumbled, scratching his neck as your jaw dropped, having the sudden urge to shove him.

“Draco Lucius Malfoy! Did you seriously spend that much on a bracelet for me?” You exclaimed, disbelieved as you stared at him.

“Come on, don’t you like it?” he asked, raising an eyebrow as he picked the bracelet up. You bit your bottom lip, taking the bracelet in your hands as you admired it, touching the dragon with your index finger.

“It’s beautiful,” you complimented, sounding defeated as you looked up, your lips curling. “Why would you spend so much, though?” you sighed whilst Draco tutted.

“It wasn’t that much,” he reassured, taking the bracelet. “Let me see your wrist,” he grinned as you complied, shaking your head as you warmed inside.

Draco clasped the bracelet around your wrist, the accessory being a perfect fit as his fingers brushed against your palm before he pulled away, leaving you to idolise the bracelet.

“There’s another thing.” Draco’s deep voice pulled you out of your head as you looked up, raising your eyebrows. He unrolled his sleeve, revealing a matching bracelet on his wrist as you gasped softly. However, instead of a dragon charm, he had a butterfly on his.

“Dragon for my name,” he began, his voice gentle as he brought his wrist closer to yours, “Butterfly for your middle name.” The two charms connected as you met his gaze, your eyes softening at his sentimentality as you stepped closer.

“I didn’t take you to be the sentimental type,” you muttered, teasing him as he playfully rolled his eyes.

“You deserve it,” he responded, looking down sheepishly. His cheeks faintly blushed under the setting sun as you smiled for the millionth time that evening.

You tilted his head up, hesitating before kissing his cheek tenderly, pulling away momentarily. Draco looked down at you, his lips parting as you both chuckled, the wind blowing softly around you as you were both lost for words.

“Happy birthday, [Y/N/N],” he said, his tone genuine. You were about to thank him, but you physically couldn’t speak because he had joined his lips with yours.

And, of course, you kissed back, smiling against his lips as he cupped your face, both of you filled with honest happiness.

Who cared if Filch’s screams were approaching you within mere moments? You finally had each other—and that’s all that mattered.

thank you for reading!

[itsapeterthing]

Green || Bucky Barnes

pairing: bucky barnes x avenger!reader

summary: three times bucky realized you were more than a friend and the one time he finally admitted it (based on events from tfatws)

a/n: finishing this in time for the season finale tomorrow! reblogs and/or replies are super appreciated!!

word count: 3.1k

warnings: mentions of reader wearing a short dress, jealous bucky

masterlist || request || taglist

#1

“Nice of you guys to call me.”

Your hands in your jacket pockets, you announced your presence as you strolled up to the group of four men standing outside of the police station. You could basically feel the tension in the air as each man had a resolute expression written on all over their faces.

“What’s going on here?” You asked, slipping your hands out of your pockets and gesturing towards the group.

“What are you doing here?” Sam asked.

You might have been nicer about the situation if you weren’t utterly pissed that the two men hadn’t informed you about the mission that they had gone on.

“Incase you forgot, Sam, you’re not the only one who’s had to pick up where someone else left off. It’s my job to keep track of you guys.” You said. “... Also I’m Bucky’s emergency contact.”

“Well,” The blonde man leaning against the police cruiser said. “You’re a little late. I handled it.”

Looking up at the man in front of you, you gave him no inclination of defeat.

“You must be John Walker.” You said.

“So you’ve heard of me?” He smirked.

You crossed your arms, stepping away from the man who you had seen on television playing the role of Captain America. You had heard about the decision moments before the government had first displayed the impersonator on screen, but it had been too late for you to do anything about it or to inform Sam or Bucky in time for his appearance.

“I’ve heard of everyone.” You deadpanned.

“Yeah?” He asked, standing up straighter. “And who are you?”

Just as you were about to open your mouth, you felt Bucky’s hand land on your shoulder. Turning to glance at him, you watched as he shook his head, giving you a serious look. Despite the fact that you were now tasked with keeping track of the former members of the group of Avengers and were one yourself, you had been able to keep your identity a secret. Although to the world you were “Sorceress”- the Avenger with magical powers similar to those of Wanda Maximoff- to members of the team such as Bucky you were Y/n Y/l/n.

He didn’t trust John Walker and he didn’t want to bring you into their own mess. Although Bucky had been avoiding Sam’s text messages, Bucky had kept in constant touch with you since you first met him after he had come back from the Blip six months ago- even going as far as spending time together multiple times a week in person- not because you had to keep track of him, but because the two of you genuinely enjoyed spending time together. 

You were the closest thing he had to normalcy and he didn’t want the knockoff version of his best friend messing it up not only for himself, but for you too.

However, you didn’t see much of a way out of it. You weren’t going to just leave Bucky and Sam to handle the situation on their own, but you also didn’t see a way that you could work alongside them and not have John and Lemar figure out your identity sooner or later.

Gently taking Bucky’s hand off of your shoulder, squeezing it lightly before dropping it, you reached out your hand to John Walker.

“Y/n Y/l/n.” You told him. “Sorceress... and I guess the current caretaker of the Falcon and the Winter Soldier.”

Later, after the group had dispersed and you followed Sam and Bucky as they walked in the opposite direction, you were surprised when you heard Bucky’s tone of voice when he finally spoke up again.

“You shouldn’t have given him your name, Y/n.” He said.

You shrugged, hands tucked into your pockets once again. “It’s fine, Buck.” You assured him. “There wasn’t much else I could do. He was going to find out eventually-”

“Don’t act so casual about it. This is your identity- your life- and you’re just going to share it with some asshole like John Walker?”

“Woah!” You exclaimed, stopping in your spot. “What’s your problem, Buck? Why do you care so much?”

Noticing how both you and Sam were staring at him with furrowed eyebrows, trying to comprehend why he was making such a “big deal” about it, Bucky grew embarrassed, not understanding himself why he cared so much. Rather than admitting defeat however, Bucky threw up his hands, scoffing.

“Forget it, Y/n. I don’t care. Do what you want.”

And with that he picked up the pace, walking in the opposite direction of where you and Sam stood confused in your spots.

#2

“I couldn’t have worn something- I don’t know- a bit longer?” You called to the three men ahead of you, following them into the club as you tugged on the hem of your short dress.

“This a club in Madripoor, Y/n.” You heard Zemo say. “If you wore anything else you would be giving us away.”

Groaning you steadied yourself in your heels following behind Zemo and Sam. You slowed your pace to walk besides Bucky who had insisted on being at the back of the line behind you- telling everyone that it would be safer for everyone if he kept their backs covered.

“How are you feeling?” You asked as quietly as you could in the loud club.

“What?” He asked.

“How are you feeling? With the while Winter Soldier thing? If you don’t think you can handle it we can find another way-”

“It’s fine, Y/n.” He said. “Don’t worry about me.”

Instead of letting it go, you gently placed your hand on his exposed, vibranium arm, causing him to stop in his spot, looking at you.

“Bucky, I’m serious.” You said. “You matter too. If you can’t handle it, I’ll find a way to get the information without all of this, okay? I care about you, Buck. Just say the word.”

He almost couldn't focus on the words coming out of your mouth as he tried to keep his eyes focused on your face, rather than trailing down your body, finally noticing just how short the dress that was adorning your body was. As good as you looked in green, he swore he would kill Zemo once he got what he needed from him for dressing you in that.

As gorgeous as you were, however, your words meant everything to him and he hung on to every single one- no matter what you were saying. Hearing the sentiment that you had for him and that you would stick your neck out for him of all people made him speechless.

Just as he was about to open his mouth however, the two of you began to feel the eyes of other partygoers staring the two of you down. As soon as you noticed, you quickly snatched your hand away from his arm and continued your pace in front of him, Bucky quickly following behind.

“Distracted?” Zemo asked as Bucky stopped beside him at the bar.

Rather than answering, Bucky remained silent, falling into character with the thought of your shared interaction still playing over and over in his mind.

#3

Coughing on his hands and knees, trying to process what had just happened, all Bucky could hear was the obnoxious sound of the alarm blaring. When he opened his eyes again he saw the shipping container now consumed with flames and illuminated with a daunting red light. Recalling what had just occurred, he scrambled to his feet, calling out for you.

“Y/n?” He called. “Y/n!”

When he didn't immediately hear your voice, he began to feel his heart race in his chest. What if something happened to you? What if you were too close to the explosion? He wouldn’t know what to do with himself if something had happened to you. Just as he was beginning to start hyperventilating, the smoke catching in his chest causing him to double over and heave, he felt your hands wrap around either of his biceps.

“Buck?” You asked. “I’m- I’m so sorry. It happened so fast I couldn’t get a forcefield around everyone. Thank God you’re okay. I was so afraid something happened-”

Cutting you off, Bucky shook your hands off of his arms, instead pulling you into his arms. Although you and the super soldier had spent more quality time than you could count together prior to starting this mission, you had never hugged before, but being in his arms you couldn’t find a single complaint, instead silently wrapping your arms tightly around his torso, running your hands up and down his back.

“Hey it’s okay, Buck. I’m okay.” You said. “Let’s go, okay? Before this thing collapses on us.”

After that the two of you had followed Sam and Sharon into the area of shipping containers, taking out hitman by hitman along the way, when you had finally gotten through all of them, you watched as Zemo pulled up in a car besides the four of you.

“Nice ride.” You said as Bucky slipped into the front seat of the vehicle, yourself sliding into one of the seats in the back row.

“Thank you, Y/n.” Zemo replied, patting Bucky on the chest. “She’s a woman of taste.”

Bucky swore to himself for the second time within the past 12 hours that when given the chance he was going to kill the man beside him- with or without his therapist’s approval.

“You’re not going to move your seat up are you?” Sam asked.

“Nope.” Bucky said.

“That’s fine.” Sam conceded. “I guess I’ll just chill back here with Y/n.”

You laughed as Sam laid his arm against headrest of the backseats of the car.

“I’m fine with that.” You said. “Just me and my favorite person.”

Now Bucky knew that you were kidding, only teasing him to get a rise out of him, but glancing at the backseat and seeing Sam’s arm practically around your shoulders and you calling him your favorite person... just didn’t sit right with Bucky. Just as Zemo’s foot was about to hit the gas, Bucky shifted the car into park, swinging the door open and stepping out of the vehicle.

“What-”

“You can have the front.” Bucky said, swinging Sam’s door open.

“It’s really okay, Buck-”

“You said you wanted more space so you can have the front.” He said. “Go sit in the front.”

You watched as Sam turned to you, quirking his eyebrows before shrugging and stepping out of the car, switching to the passenger seat. You almost wanted to laugh as you watched Bucky squeeze into the backseat behind the passenger seat, his knees practically up against his chest.

“You good?” You asked.

Despite the groan that had involuntarily escaped his mouth from the discomfort of the front seat digging into his knees, Bucky nodded, stretching his arm out across the backseat, behind your shoulders.

“I’m great.” He assured you. “Now drive, Zemo.”

Although you didn’t catch it, the two men sitting in the front seat- despite their differences- couldn’t help but throw each other a knowing look before the car took off for their next destination.

#4

“Hey!” Torres called. “I see you got your sleeve back!”

You chuckled as you turned to glance at the man stood beside you. Despite it being a joke, not a single hint of a smile cracked the man’s hard exterior. The only reason he didn’t walk out of the room on the spot was because you were standing beside him.

“He’s just in a bad mood today.” You said, reaching your hand out to shake Torres’. “I’m Y/n.”

Taking your hand and shaking it in his, he furrowed his eyebrows. “What are you doing hanging around these guys?” He asked. “...Not that you can’t handle yourself! Sam just won’t even invite me on these things.”

Pulling your hand away from his, you smiled. “Think you can keep a secret?”

As soon as you asked the question you watched as the confusion written all over his face grew even more and you could hear Sam chuckling in the background.

“I’m Sorceress.” You said. “Like the Avenger? I just try to keep my identity pretty secret, you know?”

As soon as you revealed your identity to him, you watched as the man’s face dropped and he turned to look at Sam who was standing behind him.

“Wait- she’s-” Torres stuttered.

Sam nodded, laughing.

“Yep.” Sam said. “She’s the one you’ve been hounding me about setting you up with.”

Although you weren’t paying attention to him, Bucky had already disliked how the conversation was going- finding Torres to be a little too friendly for his liking and not loving that you exposed your identity to him immediately- but when he heard Sam’s confession, he stiffened in his spot, hands balling into fists at his side.

“What? Dude!” Torres exclaimed, glancing back and forth between you and Sam before finally turning back to you, chuckling nervously. “He's just kidding! I would never have a crush on you- wait! That came out wrong! Not that you’re not pretty because you are- I just think you’re cool-”

You continued laughing as the man stumbling over his words in front of you, finding it endearing until you heard the super soldier scoff beside you. You glanced at him only to see him cross his arms while rolling his eyes before making his way out of the room.

Turning back to Torres you gave him a quick smile, pulling a card out of your pocket. “I have to go, but it was nice to meet you Torres. If these boys get in trouble again, make sure to call me first thing, okay?”

He took the card from your hand, nodding. “Uh yeah- yeah! Of course!”

With that you waved to both him and Sam before following the path Bucky had taken out of the room seconds before.

Seeing his figure pacing across the room, you threw your arms up in the air.

“What’s your problem?” You asked.

Stopping in his spot he turned to face you.

“What?” He said. “I don’t have a problem.”

You couldn’t help but scoff, crossing your arms. 

“Uh yeah. You do.” You said. “Did I do something to piss you off or something? Are you mad at me for coming on the mission? Because I’m sorry if I wanted to help save the world and make sure you guys didn’t get killed in the process.”

Bucky just stopped and stared at you standing across from him with your arms crossed. He hated to admit it, but you look pissed at him. It hurt knowing that you were upset with him, but it hurt a little more knowing that you felt as though he was mad at you when in actuality that couldn’t be farther from the truth.

“Y/n.” He said, stepping closer to you. “I’m not mad at you.”

“Then why did you just storm out of the room?” You asked.

He couldn’t think of a reason besides the truth. He could lie and say that he was   mad at you, but that wouldn’t solve the situation for anyone and could possibly strain your relationship farther- and that was the last thing he could possibly want.

The two of you stood there in silence, staring at one another as Bucky attempted to find the words in his head to ease your concern without exposing himself in the process.

But you were never one to back down with him.

“Bucky,” You said. “What’s the problem? What did I do? Why are you so angry-”

“Because I don’t like the way that guy was talking to you!” He exclaimed, throwing his arms in the air.

“What?” You asked. “What are you talking about?”

Bucky realized he was in it now. He couldn’t see a way out of it.

For the past week, Bucky couldn’t help but notice that he cared for you a bit more than friends should. Maybe he always did. He thought back to the times he would eagerly await your weekly lunches or the comfort he felt when you took him furniture shopping after seeing his empty apartment for the first time. He thought back to the times you would show up outside of his door when he was upset because you were the only person he trusted there with him in those intimate moments- he knew that you were more than just his colleague, but he realized now that you were more than his friend.

Recently it became more obvious, the burning in his chest he felt when others became a little too comfortable with you- he attempted to mask it with just wanting to protect you, but he knew you could handle yourself. He was protective over you so he wouldn’t lose you.

Just when you opened your mouth to speak again, he cupped your face in his hands. He watched as your eyes widened, but didn’t make any move to stop him. When he caught your eyes trailing from his eyes to his lips, he pulled you towards him, meeting your lips in the middle.

Maybe it was because he hadn’t kissed anyone in eighty years, but he had never felt the way he had in that moment before. He was so utterly consumed in you- the feeling of your hands reaching for his jacket, tugging him closer as you deepened the kiss, your soft lips against his, your warm breath against his face- he was lost in it.

When you finally pulled away, he didn’t want to let go, but leaned back anyway, staring at his world- you- that he now held in his hands.

“Buck...”

“I think I like you more than a friend.” He confessed.

You couldn’t help the smile that spread across your face at his words. You had always cared for Bucky as more than just your former fellow Avenger, but knowing that he felt the same as you was something you could hardly believe.

“I think I do too.” You laughed, then recalled what you had come in there for in the first place. “James, were you... were you jealous?”

Thinking back over the past week the two of you had spent together on the mission, he could almost laugh at the question you had just asked.

“You’re joking, right?” He chuckled. “Yeah. You could say I was a little bit jealous.”

[whoreforbuckley]

my best friend’s brother (is the one for me). | evan buckley

paring: fem!reader x evan buckley

requested: no

prompt: n/a

summary: reader has been seeing Buck in secret for a while, and Maddie and the 118 have no idea

rating: PG

warnings: fluffy content ahead. proceed with caution, brother / sister banter

MASTERLIST || send in requests!!

taglist: @mrspeacem1nusone

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author’s note: i was listening to the victorious soundtrack and thought of this. it’s probably definitely been written before but i felt inspired

“It’s been months, Buck,” you tell him. “Don’t you think it’s time to tell your sister at least?”

Buck looks at you and says, “I don’t think she would be very happy to know that I’ve been seeing her best friend behind her back for the past few months.”

You groan in frustration, saying, “The longer we hide it, the more upset Maddie will be. Or, maybe she’ll even be happy for us. We won’t know though unless we tell her.”

Your boyfriend of eight months blinks at you. He’s quiet. Too quiet. You don’t think you’ve ever seen Buck be this quiet for this long. It’s like he’s contemplating something. Maybe he’s contemplating your proposition. You stand in front of him in your apartment.

After a few years of silence, Buck sighs in defeat. “You won’t let this go until we tell her, will you?” he asks.

“Nope,” you say, popping the ‘P’. “It’s either we tell or I tell her. Either way, she’s finding out. Whether it’s from just me or both of us, she’ll know by the end of the week.”

Buck smiles at you and says, “Okay, but if she’s upset then you can’t blame me because you’re the only that wanted to tell her in the first place.”

You smile back at Buck, saying, “Thank you.”

“Mhm,” he says, taking a few steps toward you. “In the meantime, can we please watch something other than the news? Maybe a movie?”

With a hint of excitement in your voice, you ask, “Can we please watch The Karate Kid on Netflix?”

Buck presses a kiss to your forehead and says, “Whatever you’d like to watch.”

You get excited when Buck doesn’t automatically say no to your choice of movie. You make popcorn and put it in a bowl. The bowl sits on Buck’s stomach while you lay snuggled into his side with one of his arms around you. Both of you snack on the popcorn while watching the movie.

******

Three days later, it’s ‘Friendsgiving’. Friendsgiving for the 118 is celebrated the weekend before Thanksgiving. The station gets together with their closest friends and family and hold their own little ‘mini’ Thanksgiving.

That’s when you and Buck have decided to go public with your relationship. He asked you to come to the fire house for dinner, but Maddie also asked you to come. You said yes to both invitations.

Deciding to look casual, but with a little bit of flare, you wear a leopard pint tube top and pair that with a leather skirt. You wear a pair of black heels to compliment the dark outfit. You wear the leather jacket Buck owns but let you borrow. Your hair goes up in a ponytail on top of your head and you do a natural makeup look, just covering some blemishes and pimples that dot your face. There’s a knock at your apartment door and you go to answer it.

On the other side of the door stands Buck. He’s in a white v-neck t-shirt and black jeans with sneakers. You notice he’s wearing the silver chain you got him for his birthday a few months ago. “I feel underdressed,” Buck admits, looking you up and down.

“Hush,” you tell him. “You look very handsome. That shirt hugs you in all the right places.” You didn’t lie. It shows off his muscles, and you love his muscles. Perks of dating a firefighter.

Buck laughs and you see his cheeks get a little red. “Ready to go?” he asks. “My car is waiting downstairs for us.”

You nod, grabbing your cellphone, wallet, and keys. You lock the door before taking Buck’s hand and taking the elevator down to the first floor.

In the car, you can’t help but notice how tense Buck is. You say, “It’s not like you’re introducing me to your sister for the first time. Or the 118, for that matter. Relax, Buck.”

He makes a turn and says, “I’m telling all my closest friends at the same time that I’m in a relationship, and that I’ve been in a relationship for almost nine months. I don’t know if they’re going to be thrilled or upset that I didn’t tell them. Especially Eddie and Maddie.”

“They already love me,” you say as Buck pulls into a parking spot near the 118. “I’m sure they’ll be happy for you since they are your closest friends, Buck.”

Both of you get out of the car and head into the fire house. Eddie and Christopher are the first ones to greet you and Buck. “Buck!” Christopher says. “Y/N! You came.”

Buck crouches down and gives Christopher a hug. “We wouldn’t miss Friendsgiving with you, Christopher.”

Eddie looks at you with raised eyebrows. His eyes ask the question that you’ve been avoiding for months. Are you and Buck together? Why did you show up together?

“Bobby made cake,” Christopher says before Eddie can get a word out. “He let me try the batter. It was good.”

Your boyfriend stands back up and says, “Well, I’ll have to take your word on it until I can try some.” Christopher laughs and walks off. Eddie shoots another look at you and Buck before following his son.

You look up at Buck and say, “Whenever you’re ready, Buckaroo.”

“Haha,” Buck says, faking a laugh.

Bobby yells, “Dinner is ready!” Everyone that was staggered around the house walks up the stairs to the table.

Maddie sits next to Chimney, Buck sits next to Maddie, and you sit next to Buck. May Grant sits next to you, Harry beside her, Athena beside him, and Bobby at the head of the table. Eddie and Christopher sit across from Athena and Harry. Hen, Karen, and Denny sit across from you, May, and Buck. Albert, Chimney’s brother, sits at the other end of the table across from Bobby.

Dinner starts quietly. Forks and knives clanging against the plates as everyone digs in. Then Eddie clears his throat and says, “So, Buck, how’s that woman that you’ve been seeing? Sad she couldn’t come to Friendsgiving with us.”

Maddie jumps into the conversation, saying, “Wait, my little brother is seeing someone? And I didn’t know about it?”

Buck looks panicked for a second before saying, “I have been seeing someone, and she’s okay, Eddie. Just busy today.”

Your best friend says, “I want to know more about this mystery woman you’ve been seeing, Evan. Tell us about her. When did you meet her?”

“I met her about a year ago,” Buck says. “Beginning of December, actually. I ran into her at the movie theater while she was about to see some movie for her birthday with her friends. Accidentally spilled her popcorn, so I brought her a new bag. She offered me a seat with her and her friends and it’s basically been me and her ever since.”

It takes everything in you not to look at Buck, pretending it’s none of your business. You dig into the stuffing.

Maddie says, “That’s cute. What’s her name?”

“I don’t think that we’re ready to, you know, come out as a couple yet,” Buck says. “She’s kind of shy.” That’s when you look at Buck, blinking at him. “Or maybe not?”

Your best friend laughs and says, “Well, Y/N has been telling me all about this guy she’s been dating for a few months. He sounds like he’s perfect for her, but she won’t tell me anything other than the fact that he’s a first responder and that she’s completely fallen for him.”

You choke on the water that you were sipping when Maddie was talking. You never told Buck that you’ve fallen in love with him. Neither of you have said the scary ‘L’ word to each other after almost nine months together.

Buck looks down at you and asks, “You said that?”

Hesitantly, you say, “I said that.”

A small smile lights up Buck’s face as he says, “Well, since we’re on this topic, I’d like to say that I’ve fallen for the woman I’ve been seeing recently. She’s like the perfect woman and she’s everything to me. I’ve been a pain in her ass recently but she means the world to me.”

You blink at Buck. He’s really confessing how he feels about you to everyone.

Chimney hops into the conversation and asks, “Then why is Y/N wearing your lucky leather jacket if you’ve fallen for a woman none of us have met?”

Both you and Buck look at each other before Buck says, “Because she’s my perfect woman.”

A smile paints your face and all movement stops at the table as Buck makes that five word announcement.

“You know, Buck,” you say. “You pick the weirdest times to make confessions.”

He shrugs and says, “I figured now was a good time to tell you how I felt about you since you already told my sister that you fell for me.”

Maddie’s jaw drops. “Hold up,” she says. “Hold the damn door. My brother and my best friend are dating? When did this happen and why?”

“I don’t think you wanna know why, Maddie,” Buck says. “As for when, almost nine months ago.”

Eddie says, “I didn’t think you’d wait forever to tell everyone. I figured it out four months ago when I saw Y/N’s clothes on Buck’s bedroom floor.”

Almost everyone at the table laughs and you say, “Yeah, that wasn’t my best moment.”

Maddie says, “You’ve been dating my brother for almost a year and that wasn’t your best moment? I mean, when were you going to tell me you’ve been seeing, and sleeping with, my brother? You’re my best friend, Y/N. Why would you hide something like this from me?”

Reality slaps you across the face and you say, “We didn’t think you’d approve, Maddie.”

“Nine months,” she mumbles to herself. “I mean, the way you’ve talked about him to me means he’s been treating you right. Buck somehow hasn’t managed to screw up your relationship with him yet so I guess I approve. It doesn’t mean I’m happy that you lied to me and kept this from me.”

Buck looks at his sister. “We never lied to you, Maddie,” he says. “We’ve just been withholding information.”

Eddie says, “Well, Buck’s definitely changed since he and Y/N started dating. As Buck’s best friend, I approve too.”

Most of the people at the table laugh and move on to the next conversation. You look up at your boyfriend and say, “That wasn’t the worst thing ever, was it?”

“Well, it could’ve been,” he sighs. “But I guess you’re right. We’ll celebrate later.” Buck sends you a little wink so you get the hint. Your cheeks heat up and your boyfriend presses a lingering kiss to your cheek.

[odekiisu]

Basic Guide to Clone Trooper Armour

I don’t know about you guys, but I have a hard time keeping the terms for various parts of clone armour straight in my mind. So, I decided to make this Guide To Armour, to make my life easier for those times I’m drawing or writing stuff and need to reference what this, that or the other piece is called, how it’s put on or taken off. (I’ve also tried to include/come up with some casual or slang terms for some parts because you cannot seriously expect these guys to use the Right Proper Terminology for everything all of the time.)

This is based on the Clone Wars cartoons, because that’s what I know best. Also, this is just the standard armour of regular troopers; if y’all want something about the possible additions/variations that you could have then lmk and I’ll see what I can put together I guess?

Note: a lot of this terminology is taken from medieval knights’ armour. Many terms are originally French; alternative names provided where possible. I did do a bit of research on medieval plate armour, which is the closest thing I can think of to clone armour, but I am by no means an expert so if you have any input or corrections feel free to @ me. Likewise, if you’ve cosplayed as a clone trooper or stormtrooper, I’d very much like to hear about your experience wearing this stuff, how it moves and how it might be similar or different to the “real thing” so to speak.

Figure 1: Clone trooper armour, front view. Kix got chosen for this because he’s a vain little bastard and loves to be painted. (ETA: this diagram now comes with a second, funnier version.)

(long post under cut)

Figure 2: Back view of armour.

According to Wookieepedia: The armour is produced on Kamino and has UV spectrum markings visible to Kaminoans. It is made of plastoid-alloy composite, and the plates are attached to the bodysuit via magnatomic gription panels. In general, Phase II armour is lighter, stronger and more ergonomic than Phase I, which has been described as heavy and uncomfortable (Wookieepedia also says that it weighs ‘just under forty kilograms’ which sounds like way too much but eh, I’ll roll with it.)

Body glove/bodysuit – the stuff worn under the armour. Provides thermoregulation, some level of protection from things like blasterfire, vacuum, etc. AKA: blacks.

Helmet – The Bucket. Stuffed full of various tech: tracking device, display screen, comlink… Phase I helmets also have life support capabilities, while Phase II helmets do not, requiring an external oxygen supply*. Helmet crest contains comlink antenna. AKA: bucket, I think Rex once called them sun-bonnets, etc… this is the piece likely to have the most slang terms associated with it. Go wild.

* this is according to Wookieepedia; I’m a bit sceptical but I haven’t yet seen the episode it refers to. I headcanon that Phase II is capable of limited life support for emergency situations, but extended missions require external respirators.

Cuirass – there is some conflicting information on whether this refers to just the front chest armour or both front and back. If both, it consists of breastplate and backplate, joined at the sides and shoulders. Shoulder connections appear to be different for Phase I and Phase II: Phase I has a separate piece covering the shoulder seam, implying that it can be opened, whereas Phase II looks like it has an integrated flexible band; it may or may not be possible to disconnect. Either way, the front and back pieces must be able to separate in order to get the whole thing on.

Plackart – belly piece, wraps around the back to protect kidneys as well. Probably flexible to some extent, has been seen to slide down under belt, as demonstrated by Jesse in Figure 3. Might also have to have at least one open-able seam in it in order for troopers to get into it efficiently.

Figure 3: I have no idea how the lower edge of this isn’t stabbing him in the crotch, but *shrug*.

Spaulder/shoulder bell – also known as pauldrons irl, but that term refers to a different item this context (the pauldrons that commanders, captains and ARC troopers wear), so I feel like it might be better to differentiate between them with different terms to avoid confusion. That’s just my opinion though, you feel free to do as you wish.

Rerebrace – bicep plate. Phase I has cutouts in the back to fit pointy elbows (see below); Phase II does not.

Couter – elbow plate. Pointy elbows in Phase I, unpointy elbows in Phase II, as shown on Figure 4. In Phase I appear to be attached to vambraces in the animated version, Phase II is more mobile. I admit, I’m not a huge fan of this word, I kinda prefer elbow plates.

Figure 4: Phase I and II elbows. Am I getting way too into this that it’s gotten to the point of studying clone elbows? *shrug* who knows.

Vambrace – forearm armour. Has wrist-mounted comlink (see below).

Gauntlet plate – covers back of hand. The 212th absolutely calls these “droid-punchers”, no you cannot convince me otherwise. I think I’ve seen fanon that some troopers sharpen the front edge of this plate to do more damage when punching. Decide for yourself if plastoid alloy would do more damage to the metal of a droid’s chassis if sharpened or unsharpened (and therefore sturdier).

Codpiece/crotch plate – covers the front hip and crotch area. Possible slang term, courtesy of @mockingjay34​: cockblock

Skidplate – covers butt and back hip. A lot of troopers probably just call this piece their shebs, and once again you cannot convince me otherwise. Note that in the clone wars cartoon, Phase I armour is triangular in the back and has a sort of erm… diaper shape, in that the codpiece and skidplate are connected in the crotch (I cannot imagine that being comfortable in any situation, but then again, I have Thicc™ Thighs. Do clones have thigh gaps? Also, I would not want to get pinched by the armour joint between crotch and thigh plates).

Figure 5: Sniper Butts! (Featuring Echo and Fives in quite possibly the only comfortable position in this armour.)

In Phase II the crotch and butt pieces are separated, which sounds a lot more sensible, as well as having better butt coverage – think cheeky panties vs full briefs.

Figure 6: Hardcase kindly demonstrating the new crotch plate alongside some significant gaps in his armour… please get yourself some bigger shoulder bells my dude!

I’d imagine that, given the amount of time these guys spend fully armoured, there should be some way of conveniently opening some of this up or removing individual plates for practical reasons (and if any particular trooper wanted to use this feature for… other things, well, that’s their own business).

Cuisse/Thigh plate – covers thighs. Phase I and II have different shapes in the back to account for skidplate shape, with Phase II having significantly less coverage in the upper thigh/butt area, but I guess better range of motion.

Figure 7: Troopers Hardcase and Dogma demonstrating the Butt Cutouts, or Buttouts.

Poleyn/knee plate/knee pad – important for maintaining kneecap integrity. Like elbow plates, appears to be integrated into greaves in Phase I, but moving freely in Phase II.

Greaves – cover shins, nothing fancy.

Boots – boots. Do not appear to be armoured, are soft enough to bend your toes for walking/kneeling/whatever you need bendy toes for.

Belt pouches/boxes/compartments – A place to keep your stuff when out & about. I’m assuming this is a Pocket Substitute. Clones deserve pockets too!

Comlink – Generally four large square buttons and one smaller one (live action has more buttons). They also have comlinks in their helmets. Wookieepedia mentioned that they used wrist comms in the show so that the audience could clearly see when characters were talking to each other. Possibly used for long-range communication, whereas the ones in the buckets could be for shorter range?

Life support/those box things on their back – I have no idea what they’re actually called but these also have different designs for Phase I and II. On stormtroopers they contain a power pack and a small oxygen supply, and I guess it’s reasonable to assume that they have the same life support function for clone troopers. Also read somewhere that they have comlink scanner for long-range communication?

Thermal detonator – why would they all have bombs on their back? Seems unsafe. Also I don’t think I’ve ever seen one used? Idk. These things confuse me.

[folkloreguk]

French Class [2]

A/N: I hope you all enjoy this part! I’m excited to put out more parts soon!

genre: optional bias (m) x reader (f), smut, oral (f receiving), car sex, dirty talk, college!au, nerd!reader, fuckboy!bias

words: 4.4 k

✽series masterlist✽

taglist (lmk if u wanna be added!): @lovely-ateez

“And then he asked me if I would wear his tie around my neck while he- Hello? Earth to Y/N? Are you there?” Your roommate, Chohee, waved her hand in front of your face from across the table. You had occupied the seats in the back of the Chinese restaurant, in a niche where you were mostly hidden from other customers. Turns out, for all the spicy stories she had in store – as always – that had been a great idea.

“I swear your thoughts have been all over the place lately. Are you sure you have nothing to talk about?” She twirled a strand of her dyed pink hair around her fingers while she mustered you suspiciously.

“I’m sorry, I zoned out. It’s nothing, I’m just tired. I’ve been studying day and night. Looks like you’re the only one with the stories today. Just start again from the part where he got the whipped cream from the fridge,” you said.

“We went over that part five minutes ago! Have you paid any attention?” Chohee shook her head with a grin. Then she began her bedroom-adventure story from the beginning, because she knew as well as you, she loved talking about it.

Truth was, you had one hell of a story to tell. And no, you had not been paying attention. Not because you were tired. Not because you had studying on your mind. But because one hundred percent of your focus was currently directed at the boy only a few tables from yours. You only saw the back of his head, but there was no doubt about his identity. The mop of hair was unmistakable. Plus, he was in his famous black leather jacket. There was no mistaking this piece of clothing. It was decorated with white splatters of acrylic paint and had his name written messily across the top of his back. You could just about make out the tips of the letters as he leaned back comfortably, legs spread on his chair, chatting to his friend.

Chohee had no idea about the grip the person behind her had on you. She was your closest friend, and yet you hadn’t broken the news to her: You were hooking up (and not just once) with the so-called “hottest guy on campus”. AT least those had been her words when she had first told you about him. Lately you had to admit, you were starting to agree. It wasn’t like you wanted to keep secrets from her. In fact, on many occasions you had almost crumbled and told her the full story. Had she not been such a chatterbox, and did she not love gossiping as much as she did, you swore she would already know about your little arrangement with him.

She was aware of this much: You and him were casual friends. Study buddies, one would say. You had subtly passed over the little details of your friendship. How grocery store visits sometimes turned into visits to his dorm because of a simple text of his, or how you had sneaked out on more than one occasion in the middle of the night because he had told you his dormmates weren’t home. It wasn’t weird to Chohee that you brushed over the particularities of your “one-night-stands” when you returned in the mornings. You had never been as big on sharing as she was.

Maybe you wanted to keep things to yourself out of fear what people would say, too. You couldn’t care less whether people knew you were sleeping around. But everyone knew him, or so it seemed. Girls wanted him. Boys wanted to be him. All you desired was his friendship and some fun. You had no interest in being known on campus or having people you’ve never met giving you the side-eye over having sex with an oh-so-special boy. One day you would tell Chohee all about it. You weren’t technically lying. Just not sharing the entire story.

“Remember how I said H/N was the hottest guy ever?” Chohee suddenly said. The sound of his name made your head snap back to reality.

“Oh, now you’re listening, I see. All it takes is for me to mention your new bestie,” she teased. “You shouldn’t get too attached to him. I have a feeling that girls are interchangeable to him, either way. Anyway, I’ve decided I find his friend Korain much more attractive, since I’ve been hooking up with him.”

Would it be weird to correct her? To promise her, when you had more time and weren’t so distracted, you would lay the truth on her? He isn’t like that at all, you wanted to say. Yes, he liked female attention. But that didn’t make him a bad guy. Would it sound crazed to explain how he knew how you took your coffee, and how he sent you pictures of your favorite animals before your exams to take some of the nerves away? Or how he reported that it took him exactly 1,012 steps to get to your dorm from his place? Multiple times you had tried to count the distance yourself, but you never seemed to have enough focus to make it. Something always caught you off guard. You had doubted his credibility, but he swore he wasn’t bluffing.

Speaking of his friend Korain – who was at this very Chinese restaurant with H/N – he was suddenly making eye contact with you. Before you could slide lower into your seat like a frightened animal, he had grinned at you. Oh no. Prompted by his friend’s smile in your direction, H/N now turned his head. You were thankful Chohee was still deep in her explanation on why she had changed her opinions on the two very boys only a few tables away. If only she knew.

H/N’s eyes caught yours and a smirk plastered on his face. You assumed the tiny smile you sent him would do, but no. The two young men had collected their things and were getting ready to leave. The exit was the opposite direction, and yet H/N took the long way there. His stride was that of a model as he approached your table.

“Y/N,” he said, voice sweet like sugar candy and his smile charming like famous artwork. “You wanna hang at the library later?”

Chohee was now eyeing him as if she was your bodyguard and he was an obsessed fan who had crossed into your personal space. All you could think of was how you wanted him as your dessert. Now. But you had an exam coming up in a few days. So, his invitation fit just right.

“I’ll be there.” You smiled politely. He gave you a raised eyebrow, but then nodded, said goodbye, spun around and followed his friend out of the restaurant. When you looked at Chohee, she was already giving you eyes that asked a billion questions at once. Fantastic. Now you’d have to explain that “hang at the library” was not some sort of codeword for sex, but you had – against all odds – convinced the local prince of fuckboys that studying wasn’t such an atrocious idea after all. But fate saved you before you could begin your clarification.

“Oh no! Where has the time gone? I have to get to my afternoon lecture!” Chohee exclaimed, quickly gathering her purse and jacket. “My professor will curse me if I’m late again!”

And with that, she scrambled up from the table. “Don’t think you’re getting off easy just because I have to go! I demand a good story when I get home!”

You knew she was just being dramatic, and should you decide to keep everything to yourself for another month, she wouldn’t be mad. And yet, the urge to tell her crept up on you as you watched her hurry out of the door while waving one last time. Your morning classes had been the only appointment in your calendar for the day. So, with nothing else to do, you fished for your phone to message him for a time to meet at the library.

~

“What were you being so weird for earlier?” he asked as he plopped down on the wooden chair across from you. His books slammed on the table, and you flinched a little. Boys.

“Thanks for reminding me why I chose to sit in the group project area today. Could you be any louder in a library?” you said. “And thank god we’re the only ones here.”

“Thanks for reminding me that you’re still great at avoiding questions,” he returned.

“I just didn’t want my friend to ask questions.”

“So you talked to me like a five year old would respond to their kindergarten teacher? Are you embarrassed to be seen with me? The guy with the reputation?”

“No, I’m not. Wait? What? And what kind of reputation would that be, if I may ask? The you-only-sleep-with-a-girl-once-reputation?”

“You should know the nastiest rumors mostly prove to be false. I was thinking of something more delightful. Like a gives-the-best-head-on-campus-kind of reputation.”

You snorted. “And who is going to do the research to prove that?”

“Why don’t you look around and report back to me?” he smirked.

“No thanks. I’m already hooking up with a guy who’s more than a handful.”

He faked taking offence in your words with a theatrical gasp. “Is that so? The girl I’m hooking up with isn’t much better. Always asks to hang at the library like she doesn’t beg me to fuck her the second we get out of there.”

“Let me remind you that you were the one who suggested this place today,” you said. “I was ready to jump into your bed and you had to stall time like this.”

“Are you for real? What are we still doing here, then?” he asked, and you tilted your head with a suggestive grin that mirrored his.

15 minutes later:

“Who the fuck stores five umbrellas in their car?” You kicked another one off the backseat you were lying on. Your bra was exposed beneath your shirt which he had pushed up on your chest and was now attacking the exposed skin with hungry kisses.

“That’s what you get for not getting it on in the library,” he muttered against your skin without looking up.

“We’d be asking to get suspended from there by doing that,” you said. “And I cherish my library very much.”

He only made a snickering noise and shook his head before he went to take off his shirt – and promptly hit his head on the car roof. “Ow! This sucks. I can barely move.”

“That’s what you get for not waiting until we’re at your place,” you teased him with his own words. But judging by the prominent bulge in his pants, you supposed you didn’t want him driving anywhere. Not with naughty things on his mind, and with you next to him to only make him hornier. Your eyes fell on the dark purple spots on his abdomen, and you grinned.

“Wow. Someone must have worked hard to make that stomach even prettier,” you said.

“Yeah, you would know all about that, wouldn’t you?” He bent down to your ear and his husky tone sent cold shivers up your spine. Of course, you knew. You were the one who bit and sucked the hickeys into his skin two days ago, after all. His hands palming your boobs through your bra drew out a desperate sigh from you.

“Let’s play a game. What do you say?” he asked.

“What kind of game would that be?” Your interest was roused. He was lost in thought for a moment, hands slowly running up and down your exposed legs. Luckily, you had opted for a skirt today. All he’d had to do was to push it up to your belly and get rid of your underwear after your short but very steamy make-out session on the backseat. The cool air on your exposed core was only magnifying your impatience.

“Whoever comes first, loses.” You couldn’t suppress a chuckle at his idea, and he eyed you with indignation. “You don’t like it?”

“Everyone knows women take longer to orgasm than men do,” you said. “Are you trying to dig your own grave or what?”

“That’s why I’ll have a head start,” he announced. His hands circled the skin close to your core, creeping up your thighs slowly.

“And what’s the prize for winning?”

“The loser owes the winner a favor.”

“Too vague. I don’t trust you with that.”

“I don’t trust you, she says as she waits for me to fuck her in my car,” he mocked.

“I don’t trust your crazy ideas,” you clarified. “What about this? The winner pays for the loser’s next meal when we eat together.”

“Deal.” He slid his fingers over your pussy, and you crumbled into a whining mess within seconds. No matter how much your head denied it, he really was the best. He caught your clit between his digits and your eyes rolled to the back of your head for a moment.

“Shit, you only turn me on more if you’re going to moan like that.” He lowered his head and spit on your center, and the laughter that had been bubbling in your throat died in an instant. His fingers rubbed your nub fast and spread his saliva – without doubt his attempt at tipping you closer to the edge before he had even begun to fuck you.

“Too bad you find me so hot,” you said, and let out a purposely dramatic whimper, followed by his name in your best fake-porn-voice. His smile had something wholesome, as if he was admiring his friend making silly jokes, but also a glint of playfulness. You knew had been a mask when he bit his lip and exhaled slowly. With ease, he slid his middle finger into you. As he curled it against your sweet spot, he bent down to suck on your clit and your back arched at the sudden pleasure.

“Too bad you’re going to lose,” he said, and then continued his antics. Had he continued this way for another few minutes, his words wouldn’t have been so far from the truth. But you had other plans.

“Are you going to fuck me now?” you asked. “That’s enough of your head start.”

“I only just tasted you. Why would it be called a head start, if you’re going to stop me two minutes into giving you head?” he asked and you would’ve slapped his shoulder, had he been close enough. Instead, you closed your eyes for a few seconds. He was the competitive one here, and you didn’t mind enjoying yourself for now. Sighing in temporary defeat, your head fell back onto the seat. The sun was shining its last rays through the car window. They caught in his curled eyelashes and on his skin, coloring him golden.

“That’s a good girl,” he said, arm snaking around your thigh. He held on to you, but it wasn’t as if you could have moved away from him. Your head was right by the car door. His lips around your clit paired with his finger steadily rubbing against your sweet spot inside of you made you feel like floating. His free hand touched your leg gently, caressing your skin as if he wasn’t also simultaneously pushing you to the urge to yell out his name in pleasure. You tangled your fingers in his soft hair, as if you needed to do so to keep him in place. But something in the back of your mind still had a desire for winning. Trying to collect the last bits of your dwindling sanity, you hatched a plan. Good on you – you knew just what rode him into madness.

“I- I need you to fuck me, please,” you begged, making sure to add an extra layer of tragedy to your voice. “Please, I want it so bad.”

He looked up at you, a dark glint in his eyes. Of course, he did. All was going according to plan. It wasn’t like you had known him all your life, but you were perfectly aware of one thing. He could never resist your dirty talking and begging.

“Please?” you bat your eyelashes ever so longingly at him.

“Is that so?” He was now straightening up. His black pupils were dilated, and he was looking at you with the expectation of a loyal puppy waiting for his treat. You grabbed the front hem of his pants and pulled him towards you. In a moment, you had unzipped the material for him.

“I want you to fuck me like you did the first time we met. At the party,” you said. “Do you ever think about it, too?”

“Fuck, of course I do,” he said. Faster than you could register, he was ripping a condom wrapper and sliding it onto his free length. His cock stood angry and hard against his stomach. Perhaps your dramatic words weren’t so far-fetched. You couldn’t wait for him.

“Then do it, please,” you said. “Right now, this pussy is all yours. Use it the way it should be used.”

He muttered a swear under his breath and you knew he was in the palm of your hand. His hot breath fanned your neck as he bent over you, cock aligned with your exposed core. For a moment his length slid through your wetness, and he groaned at the warmth that was about to engulf him.

“I’m so fucking wet,” you moaned. “And all for you.”

You would have been lying if you said you weren’t enjoying the exaggerated show you were putting on for him as much as he did. Although, you weren’t sure whether you were allowed to call it exaggeration, at all. Your walls clenched around nothing as the tip of his cock touched your juices and he eyed you like he could’ve eaten you up right then and there.

When he finally entered you, he instantly sighed. His eyes were shut tightly as he dealt with the impact of feeling you around his shaft. A small spark of triumph went through you. That was, until he pushed your legs up and snapped his hips against yours. A sharp, sudden burst of pleasure shot through you and the coil in your stomach tightened all at once. You suspected your plan was backfiring slightly. Your words not only appealed to him and his famished mind and body. They also got to your head, and there you were, barely able to contain yourself under a load of blind hunger.

“You want me to fuck you senseless, huh?” he asked. His words went straight to your core. Nonetheless, you had a goal to work towards and you weren’t set on giving up.

“Yes, oh my god,” you whimpered. “That’s all I’m asking for. Please, I know you can. You always fuck me so well.”

In response, he rammed his body into yours so abruptly, you gave off a noise of surprise and pleasure at the same time. He bent his upper body over yours to support himself. His hands lay flat on the seat on both sides of your head. His thrusts made your legs shake now and then, when his cock hit that one spot inside of you. It was causing you to see entire galaxies on the inside of your eyelids. When you blinked up at him, the sun had disappeared beyond the horizon. Darkness had always suit him better than the golden sunset, either way. The muscles in his arms flexed and his eyebrows furrowed, and for a moment you called victory yours. But you couldn’t be sure for longer than a moment.

Because from one second to another he straightened up and slowed his thrusts. The gradualness had something equally as striking. He dragged his cock through your scarlet walls and his fingers found your clit. You drew out a ragged breath and cursed him for regaining the upper hand. Yet, you quickly abandoned the thought of defeat. When you allowed yourself to feel the pleasure, every last thought vanished at last. You moaned and whimpered helplessly. Without overthinking, you wrapped your hand around his wrist. He shot you a confused smirk.

“Too much, baby?” he said. “Think you won’t be able to handle it? A shame. It would really be too bad if you lost. You were doing so well up to now.”

You swallowed, hard. His patronizing voice tugged at your nerves and yet you loved when he spoke to you this way during sex. And he was aware of it – hence his knowing grin.

“Don’t stop moving,” you asked him to keep up his thrusts. “It’s not fair, otherwise.”

“Oh no. I would never dare break the rules,” he said.

He did as you said, and it only made things more mind-consuming for you. You were again reminded of the small tornado raging in the pit of your belly, threatening to consume you all over. It was only a matter of time. But what he could do, you could do better.

“Do you like fucking me in my skirt?” you taunted him, blinking ever so sweetly. Your eyes were dripping honey as you put on your most innocent gaze. “Am I pretty like this?”

“You’re the prettiest,” he muttered, biting his lip as if he was stopping a thousand moans from spilling out. “So. Fucking. Hot.”

“If I wear this skirt to class tomorrow, and you see me in the halls, will you think of this moment?” you asked. His fingers on your clit were shaky and moving unevenly. You might have been digging your own grave along with his. You didn’t care. Too many lectures you had wasted, barely able to concentrate because of the boy on top of you.

“Definitely. You weren’t wearing that earlier, at the restaurant,” he said. You wondered how many people had ever seen him this way – utterly breathless, all his cool vaporizing at once.

“Good observation,” you said, but you were struggling with your words as much as he was unable to keep calm. What was meant to sound lazy and seductive had morphed into a whimper and small sighs. “I wasn’t. I- I put it on just for you.”

He cursed again and abandoned all his remaining self-control. His grip on you was iron-tight and you clenched your fists. Oh, how you wished you could have buried your head into a pillow, or better even, the crook of a neck. Instead, you moaned his name almost soundlessly and searched for his dark eyes.

“Say my name again,” he demanded, like it was his last request on earth. So, you obeyed, only because you would have done anything for him right now, if it meant that he would keep fucking you that way.

“Oh my- my god,” you moaned. “Please don’t stop, fuck-“

“You look so hot right now, baby,” he groaned. “Shit- I could come just looking at you.”

“Then do it,” you said. Challengingly, you both smirked at each other. It lasted only the blink of an eye. You felt your insides twist before you could have prevented it. And all of a sudden, you crashed. Your intense orgasm erupted, and it took you several seconds to realize it, but then you heard it. His high-pitched moans, quiet and curse-stricken, could only mean one thing. You weren’t the only one, and therefore not the first to reach your high. A content smile spread on your face as his messy thrusts went on for a short while and you bathed in the remaining moments of bliss.

Silence set in as you both kept still to catch your breaths. You worried he would pin the loss on you, nonetheless, and inwardly braced yourself for his accusations. But to your surprise, he only laughed and collapsed on top of you. His breath tickled your neck slightly.

“We’ll be splitting the bill, I suppose?” he said. He straightened up to look you in the eyes playfully.

“Looks like it,” you said. You guessed his fighting spirit had been appeased and his energy had been spent on better things than arguing with you. You never minded it.

~

“Did you have a nice study session? Does the library lady assume you’re homeless and actually living there, yet?” Chohee teased as you entered your shared kitchen. She was typing on her phone but looked up when you only laughed.

“Is that a hickey?” she asked, and you knew you were done for. “What exactly is it you were studying? H/N’s body?”

“I guess I should tell you. Sooner or later, you’ll know,” you relented.

“Tell me what? Oh my god. Are you guys dating? Are you dating H/N?”

“No! You know I have no time for a boyfriend,” you said. “But…we’ve been hooking up.”

“Damn girl,” she said. “What do you have on him that he keeps coming back?”

“Excuse me? Am I really that boring of a company?”

“No. You’re the best company I could ever ask for, obviously,” she said, smiling at you. “But you remember his reputation. He sleeps with the same girl only once.”

“It’s just a stupid rumor,” you said. “Besides, we’re not just hooking up. He’s my friend. You already knew that.”

“Friend, huh?” Chohee asked. “Alright. So, you’re telling me he can hang out with you without trying to get it on?”

“He can, actually. And let me tell you, he’s cool. And pretty funny, too,” you said. She raised her eyebrows at you. “We’ve set some rules. We hook up, but also hang out as friends. Neither is allowed to be upset when the other turns down sex. We can both hook up with anyone else, still. No jealousy, no attachments. Just a good time.”

“Alright,” Chohee nodded. “If you’re so close, do you think you could introduce me to some of his friends sometime?”

You laughed, nodding. Chohee and H/N had quite some things in common, you realized then. Maybe that’s why you liked the two of them so much.

“Let’s see how long that lasts, then. Don’t wrap him too tightly around your finger, or he might trip and fall,” she winked. It was your turn to raise your eyebrow. Whatever she might have been insinuating – you had zero plans of making it reality. (Yet.)

[buckleyblueyes]

buddie + " you're shivering. here, take my jacket. "

So, it's July, it's 95 degrees outside, and I have written Christmas/winter themed fluff ft. Eddie being touch starved and having a conniption over wearing Buck's jacket. Blame the prompt? I hope you enjoy!

Eddie isn’t cold. He’s not. It’s barely below sixty degrees fahrenheit, so he isn’t cold. It would be ridiculous for anyone to be cold. He’s fine. He’s sitting outside, on the frigid stone edge of a large fountain, in the middle of December, and he’s fine.

“I told you to bring a jacket,” Buck says smugly. “I knew you would be cold.”

Eddie grits his teeth. “I’m not cold.”

“Uh-uh.” Buck gives him a look of fond exasperation. “Which is why you’re currently staring down a mall Santa like if you glare hard enough at him, he’ll move through the line faster.

“I am not.” Eddie is not glaring at Santa Clause. He would never glare at the physical embodiment of Christmas joy. Least of all on what will probably be one of Christopher’s last trips like this. Next year he’ll be eleven, a full fledged preteen. He’s already expressed doubt over the legitimacy of Santa Clause. Next year Eddie is sure his son will want to skip the mall entirely. So, no. Eddie is not staring down Santa and willing him to move fast. Santa’s Elf on the other hand?

Buck grins. “Not glaring or not cold?”

“Both!” Eddie snaps.

“You’re shivering,” Buck sighs, eyeing him carefully, before pulling at the sleeves of the coat he’s wearing. “Here, take my jacket.”

Eddie wants to protest, opens his mouth to insist he’s fine, that he’s not cold. But the wind picks up, and his body betrays him, openly shaking in the chill of the December air. Buck gives him a look, as if to say see? before sliding his jacket the rest of the way off.

Eddie takes it, holding it in his hands. It’s a beige hoodie, with a thick fleece lining that’s soft to the touch, and it smells like Buck, warm and spicy and comforting. “Won’t you be cold?”

Buck shrugs. “I’m from Pennsylvania, Eddie. We have this thing called snow? It’s white and cold and it falls from the sky. I’ll be fine.”

Eddie could do without the sarcasm, but he can’t bring himself to turn down the jacket. He pulls it on and immediately relaxes into the warmth. It’s something akin to the feeling of being wrapped up in Buck’s arms--which is something Eddie doesn’t have nearly as much as experience with as he wishes, a desire which he finds himself desperate to give into everytime Buck pulls him into a bro-hug, a want so strong that he is always the first the pull away--and if wearing this jacket is the closest he can get to being held in Buck’s arms for an extended period of time, well. He’s going to take it. “You know,” he starts. “I have seen snow before.”

Buck laughs. “Maybe on TV.”

“In real life!” Eddie insists. “It snows in Texas sometimes!”

“Yeah, maybe,” Buck admits, thinking back to the news stories about the freak storms in Texas. “But not regularly, and not in El Paso, and certainly not when you were a kid, old man.”

“I’m four years older than you,” Eddie huffs. “Anyways, it frosted sometimes.”

“That’s not snow, Edmundo.” Buck rolls his eyes. “I’m talking about waking up in the morning to see your normally boring suburban block is covered in at least a foot of snow. I’m talking about boots stuck in snow drifts. I’m talking about peeling off your cold, wet clothes at the end of the day and curling up in front of the fire.”

Eddie has to admit, it sounds nice. “Alright, I’ve never seen that kind of snow before.”

Buck grins, a slight twinkle in his eye. “Maybe I should show you that kind of snow sometime.”

If it was anyone else, the idea of casually implying a shared vacation with your totally platonic best friend might seem weird. But it’s Buck, and knowing Buck, he’s probably already envisioning teaching Christopher how to build a snowman and thinking about how to make sledding as accessible as possible. Not about the inherent romance of a cabin in the snow, sitting by the fire, surrounded by nothing but quiet and calm. Eddie shakes his head, as if he can shake those thoughts out through his ears if he tries hard enough. “Maybe,” he agrees, quietly, even though he thinks he should probably say no.

Buck looks like he’s about to say something else, but that’s when Christopher gets up to Santa. Eddie reaches into his jeans pocket to pull out his phone, but he stops when he sees that Buck already has his out and is snapping pictures.

“Send those to me, will you?”

Buck is giving him that fondly exasperated look again. “Obviously.” In moments like these, when Buck is taking pictures of Eddie’s son with Santa Clause, and Eddie’s wearing Buck’s jacket, and their thighs are pressed together, he thinks Buck might be feeling what he’s feeling. The fountain shoots up behind Buck, creating a sort of halo around his head, and Eddie wants to kiss him. He doesn’t.

“Just making sure,” Eddie mumbles into the hood of Buck’s jacket, turning his head to focus on Christopher, watching as he laughs at something Santa says.

“He’s getting so big,” Buck says wistfully. “I remember the first time I came with you guys for this. He was so much smaller then.”

Eddie’s chest burns at the reminder of their first Christmas in LA, of Shannon coming back into their lives, only to leave permanently. But it’s a happy memory, too, one of the best memories they have as a family. So, he shakes it off. “Pretty soon he’ll be too old for this.”

“Don’t make me think about that,” Buck shudders. “He’s supposed to stay a kid forever.”

“Unfortunately, that’s not how it works,” Eddie responds, watching as Christopher hops off Santa’s lap and begins heading back towards the fountain. Eddie reaches out as Christopher approaches, pulling him into a quick hug.

“What’d you ask Santa for, Superman?” Buck asks, smiling widely.

“Can’t tell you.”

“Aw, come on.” Buck faux-whines, before leaning down to Chris’s level. “You can whisper it in my ear, if you don’t want to tell your dad.”

“Nope,” Christopher shakes his head. “I can’t tell anyone, or it won’t come true.”

The exchange is very familiar to Eddie, who just shakes his head. “Alright boys, let’s head home, and maybe Buck can make us his peppermint hot cocoa.”

Christopher’s eyes light up. It’s not a secret that both Diaz men love Buck’s hot cocoa recipe (which is really just a variation on Bobby’s cocoa recipe, but with a touch of peppermint extract). “Will you?”

Buck avoids looking directly at Christopher, knowing he’ll fold instantly if he does. “I don’t know, do you think it’s cold enough for hot cocoa?”

Christopher glances down at the thick coat that Eddie bundled him in earlier, because of course he remembered Christopher’s jacket and not his own. “I think so.”

Eddie pinches his lips together. “Does cocoa necessitate cold? I feel like it’s just a festive thing to do.”

Buck groans. “You’re so stubborn.”

“So, is that a yes or a no on the hot cocoa?” Eddie asks.

“As if you didn’t know the second you asked that I would make it.”

Eddie did know, but it warms him all the same to hear it out loud, and a smile pulls on the corners of lips, as Christopher cheers. “I know.”

Buck just turns and walks off towards Eddie’s truck, Christopher following close behind him. Eddie lingers for a minute, watching his son and his--well, the man he loves--continue to talk and laugh.

The voice comes from behind him. “You have a wonderful family.”

He gives the elf a small smile, even as his heart aches. “Yeah,” he agrees, because they are wonderful, more wonderful than he probably deserves. “I do.”