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succubusphan · 3 years

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Thunder Only Happens When It's Raining - CHAPTER 3

Summary: Dan meets Phil at the lowest moment in his life and is immediately enchanted by him, but nobody is perfect - not even those with good intentions and a kind heart.

This is the story of two imperfect people trying to do their best, to find love and strive in life. They gravitate towards each other at every turn, sometimes dancing in harmony, other times colliding.

Rating: E

Tags: strangers to friends, Friends to Lovers, Enemies to Lovers, Break Up, they were roommates, Cheating, Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, non youtuber au, Angst with a Happy Ending, there was only one bed, ok there was more than one bed but one was very very bad, cuddling for warmth, Stranded, coworkers, Jealousy, toxic relationship (not dan and Phil), everybody makes mistakes, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, alpha phil, omega dan, lots of character development for everyone, Anal Sex, Anal Fingering, Rimming, Oral Sex, deep throating, Shower Sex, very slight D/s dynamics, power struggle, you'll want to kill them both at some point and me too, but the end is very very worth it, Happy ending.

Word Count: 71k total, 8.5k for this chapter

A/n: This story was written for the @oldschoolpbb and it's my 100th fic (#spon). Thank you to my team! @schnaf for making the art and being my knight in shining armour as a beta, and going over the fic a million times, always encouraging me and being overall hilarious. Thank you to Mai for being a last-minute beta and providing an external analysis of the story that was incredibly helpful. And thank you @thottydanfor reading and for your input.

Please, read, enjoy, kudo, comment, like, and above all share, share, share. I am but a small writer and this is my biggest project by far.

UPDATES EVERY DAY UNTIL IT'S FINISHED (THE LAST CHAPTER WILL BE POSTED ON MAY 2ND).

This story is influenced by music at every turn so make sure you check out the Spotify Playlist.

Read on ao3 |ART LINK | Start from the beginning

Three weeks later, the moving day had finally arrived. Bryony kept trying to hide the fact that she was crying a little bit as she helped him carry the boxes into the taxi and Dan knew better than to mention it. Luckily, K came along and took on the job of distracting her emotional girlfriend by making dinner plans with her for their one-month anniversary.

Phil waited for them right outside the door with a big smile, Dan couldn’t help but match his expression. The girls started to unload the boxes into the hall while Dan and Phil went about carrying some of them in the elevator. Within half an hour everything was inside the penthouse.

Dan clutched at his chest when he noticed that Phil had vacated his office and turned it into his own bedroom, leaving the master bedroom to Dan. “Phil...you didn’t have to.”

Phil shrugged but his smile showed how much he was enjoying Dan’s reaction. “I know, but I wanted you to have your own space and decorate it however you want. Besides, this way you can fit your keyboard in your room and you get the ensuite.”

“Thank you, you are my bestest friend,” Dan smiled.

Bryony coughed behind him but she stopped when K elbowed her. “Uh, sorry; sore throat. Should we order pizza?” She said.

“Yes please!” said Dan.

“I brought scrabble and beer,” said K shily.

“K, my girl. Are you single?” asked Phil.

Bryony slapped the back of his head with one hand as she dialled the number for Domino’s with the other. “No, she’s not, so back off.”

“Ouch, I was just joking!” Phil laughed but still rubbed his head.

Dan settled into the flat in no time; he woke up every day feeling right at home. His room had East facing windows, so every morning he opened his eyes with a smile and looked out to the sunrise over downtown London. He was thriving, the little plants in his terrariums were thriving and all his friendships were as well.

Every day, after getting a healthy dose of natural D vitamin, Dan made breakfast for both of them. He knew that Phil was a bit grumpy until he’d had his first coffee so he decided to take upon the job of providing him with it, but he was not Phil’s maid by any means. In fact, they complemented each other perfectly. Where Phil was messy, Dan would quickly tidy up after him, where Dan was too lazy to go grocery shopping, Phil took care of it; it was a sweet deal. Dan knew he could really count on Phil for most things, even if it was for something silly like buying him chocolate and painkillers as he adjusted to taking the heat suppressants, but one thing Dan quickly learned to never let him do was his laundry. Now he had half the clothes he’d owned before moving in due to the shrinking incident, at least until he took on Phil’s offer to go shopping at his expense, but well, downsizing never killed anyone, right?

Living with Phil was really helping with his mental health as well because it kept him busy. They were always doing something together out and about, watching anime, or just having a chill day at home. One of Dan’s favourite new hobbies was trying to teach Phil how to play the keyboard which was a long process, but he was slowly starting to get it.

Music became a big part of their day to day life. Phil loved to lay on Dan’s bed and listen as he played something and sang to him; he was getting used to requesting song after song and just enjoying the show. Dan didn’t mind, really. To be perfectly honest, he couldn’t get enough of the look Phil gave him when he played and sang for him. “God, you’re so fucking talented,” he’d said and Dan wished he could do no other thing with his time other than provide Phil with the music he wished to hear and keep getting those looks, to hear him hum along with a relaxed smile upon his face, but alas, they had other things to do.

It was strange - in a way - to keep learning details about Phil every day without meaning to. Like the night that a huge storm broke, pouring rain, purple thunders falling from the sky and fast winds making the windows shake in their frames. Dan watched the show raptly from his bed with a nice mug of hot chocolate, sighing in content, mentally savouring the amazing night of sleep he was going to get, when he heard footsteps and a knock on his door.

“Yeah?” Dan asked.

“May I come in?” Phil mumbled.

“Of course.”

Phil opened the door and even though the only light in the room came from the city, Dan could see the pout on his face.

“What happened?”

“I can’t sleep.” Phil said, but then added in a much quieter tone: “I’m scared of storms.”

Dan set his mug on the bedside table and opened his arms. “Come here,” he said and saw a small smile appear in Phil’s lips as he crawled onto the bed and into Dan’s arms. “Do you want to sleep here?”

“If you don’t mind. Yes, please.” Phil said, resting his head on Dan’s chest with a sigh.

Dan pulled the covers over their bodies with a hum. “Of course I don’t mind, dummy.”

“Would you sing me to sleep?”

Dan smiled. “Sure. What do you want to hear?”

“Mmm, ‘Take me to church’ is one of your best covers,” Phil mumbled.

“Okay.” Dan took a deep breath and pushed the air all the way down before starting with the first verse.

“My lover’s got humor

She’s the giggle at a funeral

Knows everybody’s disapproval”

Dan buried his fingers in Phil’s hair.

“I should’ve worshiped her sooner

If the Heavens ever did speak

She’s the last true mouthpiece

Every Sunday’s getting more bleak

A fresh poison each week”

He pressed a soft kiss to Phil’s forehead.

“We were born sick”, you heard them say it

My church offers no absolutes

She tells me, “Worship in the bedroom”

The only Heaven I’ll be sent to

Is when I’m alone with you…”

He rubbed circles on Phil’s arm gently, trying to help him relax.

Dan could hear Phil singing with him almost all the way to the end of the song, but when there was another crack of thunder and Phil didn’t flinch, Dan realised he had fallen asleep. It made Dan happy to know that Phil felt comfortable enough with him to tell him when he felt vulnerable and to be able to take care of Phil as well - to make him feel safe. The world needed more sensitive alphas like him.

Months flew by, their friendship growing with each passing day. Dan felt like he was touching the sky with his hands, his life finally falling into place, but there’s something to be said about being caught off guard.

It was silly honestly: Dan’s life had been nothing but a series of bad years one after the other until he moved in with Bry, so it was to be expected that such a positive season would come to an end shortly, but Dan was getting used to being happy and he’d been careless. His motto had always been “Expect the worst and you won’t be disappointed,” yet when ‘the worst’ decided to make an appearance it really shook him.

Dan watched raptly as Faith and Buffy fought each other in the most homoerotic way possible. In fact, he was so caught up on the show that he jumped when Phil tapped him on the leg. “Huh?”

Phil gave him an apologetic smile. “Your phone keeps lighting up. I think someone is texting you.”

“Ugh!” Dan said, but he unlocked the screen anyway, his brows furrowing into a frown.

There were several messages from an unknown number, an Instagram notification saying someone had started following him as well as a Twitter notification. As soon as he opened the messages, all colour faded from his face and he started shaking.

“Dan, what’s wrong?” Phil asked, grabbing one of the throw blankets they kept on hand and wrapping it around Dan.

“It’s Alex,” Dan mumbled.

“Who’s Alex?” Phil frowned.

“My ex,” Dan said. “The one from when I moved in with Bryony.”

Phil’s face shifted, his eyes flashing dangerously. “What does he want?”

Dan had never gone into detail, but he’d told Phil enough for him to know that the guy was, for the lack of a better word, a monster. “He’s trying to fucking upset me, just like he used to. He - he always started shitty arguments with me, trying to get a rise out of me and then call me emotional, telling me that I was being dramatic.”

“What the fuck?” Phil’s frown deepened and he placed his hand on Dan’s.

Dan shook his head. “He knew that I suspected he was cheating, so he used to drive me up the fucking wall, to make me question my own sanity. He would say shit or do shit and then pretend like he didn’t do it.”

“That’s horrible.” Phil sounded appalled.

Dan nodded. “Once he told me he was going on a camping trip with his buddies because it was the birthday of one of them, but when three months later that same friend invited me to his birthday party and I told him that, Alex made such a fucking scandal. He said that I was making shit up to make him look bad in front of his friends, that he had gone camping with them. And I mean he had, but that had been almost a year before that. I checked his Facebook pictures and our texts and confirmed that I was right. He really must have thought I was that stupid.” Dan snorted humorlessly. “He kept denying it and I had no other proof of any wrongdoings at that point so I just kept all the screenshots and didn’t bring it up again.”

“I’m surprised that Bryony didn’t beat his ass.”

“She wanted to, I can assure you. But she knew that would’ve upset me even more. So when shit finally hit the fan, I moved out in a hurry when he was... I don’t know where, with his bitch I guess.” Dan’s anger grew and grew with each memory he shared.

“What does he want now? I don’t understand why he’s texting you.”

“He’s saying I took his stuff when I left - which I didn’t - and that I was rude because I didn’t officially break up with him face to face. He says I ran off when he was away to have him crawl back to me, but since he loves me, he’s willing to take me back.”

Phil’s face dropped. “Are you-?”

“No, of course not.” Dan shook his head. “The more time I spend away from him, the more I realise that I was in such a toxic relationship. I really lost myself for a bit.”

“You deserve so much better, Dan.” Phil squeezed his hand gently.

“Thanks,” Dan smiled briefly. “I feel much stronger now, thanks to Bry and you who keep me going.”

Phil pulled him in for a hug and placed a kiss atop his curls. “I’m so sorry that you had to go through that,” Phil whispered.

Dan felt all the anger slowly leaving him, a deep sense of exhaustion settling in instead. “I should have left earlier, when Bry warned me about him. I just wanted to be loved - I wanted my happy ending.”

“But you left eventually, when you felt ready. You can’t blame yourself for that Dan. You made the best decision that you could at that point.”

“I wasn’t brave. I kept trying to pretend that everything was fine. The only thing that made me pull my head out of my ass was literally finding him fucking her in our bed.” Dan’s voice finally cracked. “After that, I went through his phone and found out that he had been cheating on me with her for two fucking years.”

Phil pulled back abruptly. “What!?”

“I -” Dan attempted but no other words came from his trembling lips. Alex didn’t deserve any more of his tears, but he couldn’t help it. Remembering how fucked up his first real relationship had been often brought him to his knees, that’s why he’d tried to avoid thinking about it. “It wasn’t just a fling; they were publicly dating! He t-took her to birthday parties, to - family gatherings and - and even work-related dinners. Everyone knew!” Dan leaned into Phil’s arms again and pressed his forehead to Phil’s chest, attempting but failing to keep the sobs at bay.

Phil frowned and wrapped his arms around Dan much tighter than before. “I wish I could erase all of your pain.”

He let Dan cry, rubbing his back and whispering reassuring words in his ear until he calmed down and then carried him to his room. He tucked Dan under the covers and just as he was about to leave, Dan caught his hand. “Stay with me - please,” he whispered in a raspy voice.

Phil nodded and climbed into bed with Dan, enveloping him in a protective hug. Per Dan’s request, Phil took his phone and blocked Alex on every social media. Then, he set it back on the bedside table and laid his cheek against Dan’s. As he tried to comfort Dan, Phil inadvertently started humming “You are my sunshine” in his ear over, which helped Dan calm down and even out his breathing until he fell asleep.

The following day Dan booked his first therapy appointment in almost ten years. He wasn’t about to let a setback pull him back into the darkness.

Even though it was only a week away, the days approaching the therapist appointment couldn’t have gone any slower. Just as Dan was starting to feel a bit less anxious and breathe a little easier, he got another wave of notifications and messages from Alex. He had made new accounts and texted from another number.

Dan had to wonder why the sudden interest in walking down memory lane; his best guess was that he was having problems with her or they had broken up. Some of the texts were so desperate and trying to grasp at straws that Dan merely laughed at his stupidity but when he got a dick pic in a Twitter dm with the message “Thinking of you” attached, his stomach twisted. He excused himself from a meeting and locked himself in one of the bathroom stalls trying to calm his breathing and erratic heartbeat. He heard the bathroom door open and tried to keep quiet by covering his mouth with his hands and breathing through his nose.

“Dan?” Phil called.

Relief washed over Dan, he unlocked the door and let Phil in, holding tightly onto him. He could see the fear and confusion on Phil’s face but he felt unable to speak.

“Dan, what happened?” He asked.

Dan shook his head but unlocked his phone and let him go through it, starting with Twitter. He felt Phil tense in his arms before he put the phone in his pocket and hugged Dan tightly. “Everything will be fine. We will take care of this.”

Phil called Charles to his office and let him know that Dan had had a panic attack and that he thought it would be best to send him home. Charles readily agreed and asked Dan to text him if he needed anything; he also offered Phil the rest of the day off to help him but Dan didn’t want to be of any more trouble, so he left on his own with the promise to call if anything happened.

By the time he made it out of the building, he was feeling a bit better but he didn’t know if his mind was playing tricks on him or not. He thought he saw Alex on the other side of the street, or someone who looked exactly like him from behind. He took pictures to be sure and walked back inside, opting for calling a taxi and asking to be picked up on the other exit just around the corner. At this point he didn’t know if he was paranoid or not, so he texted Phil letting him know that he was on his way home and attached the picture asking him to be careful.

For a moment he thought that Phil might disregard his concerns but he texted back asking for Alex’s social media accounts to go through his pictures and asked him to use all the locks on the door. Dan didn’t think twice about it and did as he was told, listening carefully to every noise around the house.

Two hours later he got a message from Phil saying that he was on his way home and he finally breathed a sigh of relief.

The elevator stopped on their floor and there was a knock on the door that made Dan jump. He ran to the kitchen and grabbed a knife before running to the bathroom and locking himself in.

“Dan?” Phil called.

Dan’s lips trembled, he dropped the knife on the bathroom floor, unlocked the door and walked back to the lounge. “Phil?” he asked with a shaky voice.

“Yes, I’m going to open the door ok? I just didn’t want to startle you.”

“Ok,” Dan said but he stayed where he was, a mere four meters away from the door. As soon as Phil walked in, Dan rushed into his arms and allowed himself a few tears. “I thought it was him.”

“I know, I know,” Phil said. “I went down to check if the guy you saw matched with Alex but he didn’t. I even took a few pictures so you could take a look for yourself.” He pulled out his phone from his pocket and opened several images, zooming into the guy’s face.

Dan could see that Phil had gone through the trouble of going really close to the person he had pointed to. “You’re right, it’s not him. Thank you so much for checking.” Now he could breathe a little bit easier.

“Of course!” Phil said, placing a kiss atop his head and walked him to the sofa before turning the kettle on for some tea.

The fact that Alex’s moronic behaviour remained solely online did help Dan to be a bit less nervous, but he slept in Phil’s room nonetheless. There was no other place where Dan felt as safe as in his arms.

The following day, Phil walked Dan to his first therapy session right after work. Dan had assured him that it wasn’t necessary, that he was feeling much better than the day before, but Phil said that it was no trouble at all. He stayed in the nice sitting area right outside the office, drinking some nasty coffee from the machine and reading Cosmopolitan.

The session flew by. Dan tried to tell his therapist as much as possible, but he didn’t manage to mention everything that was affecting him. He knew that he’d been going through it in the past few years, but he felt a sense of comfort in knowing that she was impressed with how he had been handling things. They still had much to talk about to get to know each other as therapist and patient but in the meantime, she asked Dan to continue with his breathing exercises and to check for personal defence classes to make him feel a bit less vulnerable. Even if he hadn’t been in physical danger since high school, she thought it would help him emotionally and also physically as a form of exercise.

Dan knew that if he lost momentum with his decision to follow through with the personal defence class he would never do it, so he asked Phil to help him sign up for one as soon as they left.

They did a quick google search and found one near the flat so decided to check it out, discussing the session all the way there. Phil was very quiet as Dan described how his high school bullies had made him an outcast and driven him to the edge, causing him to focus on his studies to cope with the fact that he couldn’t fit in anywhere - not even at home. He had hated living in Reading and everything about that town except for Bryony; she had quickly become his only family until he’d met Phil.

“Hey, nobody can hurt you now. I’m here.” Phil said and wrapped an arm around him, pulling him close. “Mediocre people tend to cast people they don’t understand out. You were just too good for them.”

“Thank you for being so supportive.”

Phil shrugged. “That’s what friends are for. In fact, I’ll join you in your lessons.”

Dan smiled. “It said it was for omegas only, sorry.”

“Aw, man. I guess I’ll have to continue being a defenceless alpha.”

“Maybe you can walk me there so you can feel safe on the way home having a strong omega protecting you.”

“I already have a strong omega with me, you always make me feel safe - but I’ll walk you there anyway.”

Dan smiled and let his head rest on Phil’s shoulder the rest of the way to the gym.

With his mental health getting a bit better every week, Dan felt like he could conquer any challenge life presented before him. He gave it all at work, cultivated his friendships and tried to keep a mindset that pushed him forward instead of holding on to the past, despite Alex’s attempts at lodging himself back into his life. When June rolled around and with the six-month internship period coming to an end, he presented his case before Charles and asked to be hired permanently instead of waiting for the opportunity to present itself before him.

It was probably the boldest decision he had made in his entire life, but in the end, it paid off. Half an hour later, Dan smiled so hard as he walked out of Charles’s office that he thought his face was going to fall off. Bryony was on the phone but she caught sight of him and raised her eyebrows mouthing “So?” and then cheered silently when Dan gave her two thumbs up. Unable to contain himself, Dan knocked on Phil’s door and waited to be acknowledged.

Phil’s eyes popped from his computer screen to Dan and he grinned. “How did it go?” He asked expectantly.

“I was offered a permanent spot as editor of the “Current World Issues” section with an option to get the occasional column in topics suitable for me. Charles says that he wants to shift the demographic of the magazine to include younger people so we might get more interns for my section and I would be in charge of them.”

“Dan! That’s amazing!” Phil said, a wide smile on his lips. “So he’s creating a new section.”

Dan finally walked in and sat across Phil’s desk. “No, but yeah, kinda. It’s the world news section that was a bit relegated but Charles thinks it’s the perfect moment to expand it with the youth so focused on politics and trying to make the world a better place and there’s a lot to talk about. Like the NHS covering mental health illnesses, anti-bullying campaigns, and Human Rights violations around the world.”

“That’s perfect! You will be great at it!”

“I’m honestly excited! There are so many things I want to research and I want to talk about.”

“I’m so proud of you, Dan.” Phil placed his hand on Dan’s and gently caressed his knuckles with his thumb. “I think we should celebrate - tonight.”

“I’m in. Domino’s and Netflix?”

“No. I was thinking… Since tomorrow is your birthday we could kill two birds with one stone. I’m taking you to a nice restaurant.”

“Ooh, how nice? ‘Jeans and a cute jacket’ nice or ‘fancy suit’ nice?”

“Like, ‘fancy suit’ nice,” Phil said, wiggling his eyebrows.

“Wow, ok. I hope I can look nice enough for a place like that,” Dan said. Maybe it would be a good time to wear that suit he’d treated himself to a while back and never gotten around to use. It had costed a fortune.

“Dan,” Phil laughed. “You could never look anything but absolutely beautiful.”

Dan lowered his chin in an attempt to hide the blush slowly creeping into his cheeks. “Not even when I wake up with pillow creases on my face and my hair is a huge mop of curls?” His eyes slowly rising to meet Phil’s from under his lashes.

“Especially when you wake up like that,” Phil smirked.

Dan looked at himself in the mirror and cocked his head. It wasn’t often that he felt sexy, but today he did. He wore a very well-fitted McQueen suit with barbed wire details that left his ankles on display and white shoes, his hair styled into neat curls, gold hoops on his ears and just a hint of smudged eyeliner finished the look. He sent a mirror selfie to Bry and K for review and got a 9/10, their only advice was to open the first few buttons of his shirt. After brief consideration, he popped the buttons open and repositioned his shirt, smiling as he left his clavicle on display.

Phil knocked on his bedroom door with a cheeky smirk that vanished as soon as Dan turned around. His eyes travelled up and down Dan’s body, lingering on his exposed neck, fluttering to his lips and settling on his eyes. “You look stunning,” he said breathlessly.

Dan smirked at the compliment but tried to play it cool. “You look - amazing,” he admitted. The word he actually wanted to say was sexy, but he thought it was a bit much. He was wearing fitted black trousers with a simple white button-up and matching black shoes and belt, his hair styled into a quiff. The outfit was simple enough but Phil didn’t need to do much to look amazing. Dan looked at the belt and his imagination started flying away from him, making his throat dry. He didn’t realise he was staring until Phil winked at him.

“Do you think I should wear a tie?” he asked.

Dan shook his head and walked towards him popping two buttons on his shirt open, his fingers lingering on Phil’s collarbone for far longer than necessary. “There,” he said, stepping away. “Perfect.”

“Thank you,” Phil said, before offering his arm to Dan. “Ready to go?”

“Yeah, of course.” Dan took the offer and linked his arm with Phil’s, his lips curling into a small smile despite how nervous he felt when he noticed the Corgi cufflinks Phil was wearing. Despite how gorgeous, put together and overall perfect he looked, he was still just Phil; his Phil.

The taxi ride was mostly quiet except for the music the driver had on. There were quite a few bangers on the list, which they enjoyed, occasionally humming together and smiling. But when Alanis Morisette came on with “Head over feet,” Dan couldn’t help himself and sang along softly as he stared out the window. He knew that if he looked at Phil he would know instantly what he was thinking about, but then Phil grabbed his hand and placed a kiss on it, making Dan turn and get lost in those eyes. God, Dan loved those eyes - and he loved Phil.

Dan gasped at the sudden realization. Sometime during the past few months, his little crush had turned into love without him even catching on. Everything had been just so easy, almost as if it was meant to be; they just worked. All of a sudden, Dan started to feel the weight of his realization, feeling awkward and not knowing what to say to Phil which was quite stupid, considering he was such a close friend, but also so much more than that.

Luckily, there was not a lot of time to fret about that. The taxi soon pulled up at the entrance of the Hilton Hotel and Phil, ever the gentleman, paid the driver and opened the door for him, ushering him inside and into the elevator before pressing the button for the top floor. The Sky Bar had a reputation for a reason; it was absolutely beautiful and had a gorgeous view of the sunset. The waiter showed them to their table and gave them the menu before letting them decide on their order.

The food was amazing and weird and stupidly expensive. They took their time enjoying it and giggling at all the pretentious names and weird little details that made the experience all the more fun like a surprise cube of bread at the bottom of your soup of the weird thing that looked like a poached egg but was, in fact, a dessert made to look like an egg.

The waiter watched Phil try to eat the decorative moss in his funky sort of terrarium-looking dessert bowl with a frown, opened their second bottle of wine and served a glass each before leaving without a word.

Dan shook his head fondly. “Thank you, Phil. This is very nice.”

“Thank you for saying yes. I was looking forward to a nice dinner with you; this was just the perfect opportunity to celebrate.”

“It is a special occasion,” Dan admitted.

“Every occasion is special when I’m with you,” Phil said and looked out to the city, the last rays of sunshine giving him a beautiful warm glow.

Dan pulled his phone out and snapped a quick picture or three before Phil noticed.

“Hey,” Phil laughed. “Take one of both of us.”

Snickering, Dan looked around and quietly placed his chair next to Phil’s. They took a few pictures before the waiter returned with a bottle of champagne in a bucket of ice adorned with red rose petals and offered to help.

Dan blushed but nodded with a thank you. He placed his chair back and posed for a few pictures he fully intended to frame as soon as possible.

“Can’t believe you ordered champagne here, it must have costed a fortune,” Dan whispered once the waiter had left.

Phil waved him off and silently asked for Dan’s phone. He swiped through all the pictures, smiling to himself and sighed. “I love these; they remind me of how far we’ve come.”

Dan nodded. “I feel like we’ve known each other forever.”

“I feel the same way.” Phil unlocked his phone and scrolled back to the first time Dan had slept over. “Look, your hair was so much shorter here.”

Dan grabbed the phone and looked at the picture, feeling a wave of sadness for his past self. “I was so sad; so heartbroken. Even though I’m smiling in the picture, you can see the sadness in my eyes.”

Phil nodded. “It’s true, you carried that expression for quite a while, but I could always see that you were really trying, you know?”

“I was. Luckily, I don’t feel like I have to try as hard anymore. There’s so much to be happy for now.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah. I still have Bry, who plays so many roles in my life and introduced me to so many cool people that luckily wanted to befriend me, like K and Charles. She helped me get a job that makes me extremely happy, she welcomed me into her home and basically nursed me back to health when I could barely function and then she introduced me to you - and you make me so happy, Phil. Your friendship is so important to me, I just adore you so much.”

“You - drive me absolutely crazy,” Phil laughed nervously.

Dan snorted.

“What? It’s the truth. Your friendship means so much to me and I just love living with you and getting to do everything together. It just feels right.” Phil paused. “But I have to admit that - You are so much more than a friend to me.” He reached towards Dan’s hand but stopped short of touching him and instead let his hand rest on the table, palm up in an open invitation. “If you’d allow me, I would like us to try - to see where our feelings lead us, together.”

Dan flinched. He both loved and hated the idea of taking such a step. “I don’t know if I’m ready for another relationship yet.” The moment he said it, he regretted it, it was as if all the light inside Phil had been turned off; he looked, for the lack of a better word, crushed.

“Oh. It’s ok,” Phil said and started to pull his hand away, but before he knew what was happening Dan linked their fingers together.

“I don’t mean - that doesn’t mean that I’m not interested, I am,” Dan confessed. “I’m just scared to make it a thing, you know? To be in a relationship feels like this huge thing right now.”

“Ok, I can understand that. What do you want to do about this then? Should we ignore it or...”

“I think we can just try things out, see where it goes. The feelings are there, the attraction is very much there,” Dan smirked. “I just want us to be ourselves for a little while, you know?”

Phil’s smirk matched Dan’s. “So we try it out, no labels then.”

Dan considered it for a moment and realised that ‘No labels’ sounded exactly like what he needed. He smiled widely and squeezed Phil’s hand. “That sounds amazing. Let’s toast to that.”

Phil laughed and checked his phone. “In a minute.”

Just as Dan was about to ask why they needed to wait he saw the waiter coming with a nice little cake adorned with red rose petals. He felt the urge to jump out the window to avoid hearing people singing happy birthday to him but the man just set the cake on the table, uncorked the champagne and said a quick happy birthday with a tiny nod before leaving.

He looked at Phil in wonder; he was giggling like a toddler and snapping pictures. “I know you hate people singing happy birthday to you. Don’t worry, I did my research.”

Dan rolled his eyes, ran his finger on the cream of the cake and painted Phil’s nose. “Pour the champagne for me, bitch,” he smirked.

Phil checked the time and filled the flutes giving one to Dan. “Happy 25th birthday, Dan. May this be your happiest year so far,” he said raising his glass towards Dan.

“Thank you, Phil.” Dan touched his glass to Phil’s and finally brought it to his lips, his eyes never leaving the alpha.

Phil cleared his throat and downed his champagne. “Should I cut the cake for us?”

“No,” said Dan.

“No?”

“No, I think we should ask them to put it in a box for us so we can enjoy it at home.” Dan wiggled his eyebrows.

Phil’s mouth hung open for a moment before he blinked repeatedly. “Sure, yeah.” He turned around calling the waiter.

Dan really had to pat himself in the back for behaving until they were back in their building. He’d had the urge to kiss Phil since the Sky Bar but he made it until they were in the elevator. Phil had just pressed the button when Dan pushed him against the wall and kissed him. Their lips rubbed gently at first as Dan cupped Phil’s cheek, but as soon as Phil bit him, Dan gasped, parting his lips for him.

It was like flipping a switch. The moment Phil deepened the kiss, he took complete control of the situation, burying his fingers in Dan’s curls and pulling him flush to his chest with a moan that made Dan’s knees weak. Dan had always found Phil’s gentle nature and openness refreshing but the more dominant side of him was no negative feat at all; it was actually quite hot.

The elevator doors opened with a ding and Phil struggled with the keys a bit, but once they’d made it into the flat he picked Dan up from under his thighs and settled him on his hips. Dan wrapped his arms and legs around Phil with a laugh to avoid falling.

“Yours or mine?” Phil mumbled between the hickeys he was leaving on Dan’s neck.

Dan could feel himself starting to leak, his head spinning as Phil sucked on his neck. “Ah! Mine!”

Phil smirked walking to Dan’s bedroom and unceremoniously dropping Dan in the middle of the bed. He undressed as fast as possible, Dan doing the same but taking a bit more time since his trousers stuck to his already sweaty legs. Phil watched him struggle with a hungry look and tsked at him before helping him remove his shoes and pulling his trousers and pants off in one swift motion. He paused for a moment to take the view before him in before crawling between Dan’s legs and kissing him, making sure the rest of his body hovered over him.

Dan ran his fingers through Phil’s hair but quickly travelled to his back and his ass where they grabbed at the supple flesh and squeezed, causing Phil to moan into the kiss. He wasn’t done, though. Unsatisfied with the lack of stimulation, he pulled Phil’s hips down until their cocks were pressed together.

Their bodies slid together aided by the thin layer of sweat already covering them, their lips connected in a savage kiss adorned with gasps and moans. Their hands roamed each other’s bodies, Dan’s legs wrapped around Phil’s hips making the friction of their cocks all the more torturous - it was delicious but entirely not enough.

“Dan,” Phil panted. “If we don’t slow down a bit I’m going to come.”

Dan groaned. “Don’t you fucking dare. You are coming in me or not at all,” he said, in a more commanding tone than he had meant to.

Phil laughed. “Ooh, bossy.”

“Surprised?”

Phil snorted. “No, not really. I’ll be right back,” he said and ran to his room.

Dan smiled and squealed into his pillow in excitement; he couldn’t believe this was finally happening. His cocked throbbed with excitement, already missing Phil, so he allowed himself a few lazy strokes.

Phil returned with a box of condoms and lube but stood by the bed for a moment watching him raptly.

“Phil, I don’t think we’ll need lube,” Dan laughed and spread his legs just enough to let Phil see that he was already leaking onto the sheets.

“You are so wet for me already,” Phil groaned. “I’m just being careful, I don’t want to hurt you.”

Dan gave him a lustful look. “Just looking at you makes me wet, always has.”

Phil climbed onto the bed again and kneeled between Dan’s legs. “You can’t say that and expect me to not fantasize about you leaking for me at work.” He ran his hands up Dan’s thighs slowly, gracing the skin with his nails ever so slightly.

Dan shivered at the feeling. “I guess that’s something you’ll have to live with.”

Phil hummed but pushed Dan’s legs to his chest leaving him way more exposed than he’d been. “Better make a nice memory to fall back onto when I see this ass parading around my office then.” He leaned down and ran the tip of his tongue around Dan’s hole catching the slick dripping from him and swallowing. “Delicious,” he said before pushing his tongue inside Dan and starting to fuck him with it.

In no time Dan was losing his mind, his legs shaking, his breath coming in pants and his hair a mess because of how much he was thrashing about. “Ah! Phil! Phil! … Phil?”

Phil froze on the spot and hummed.

“I want to come with you inside me, come on!” he said wiggling his ass.

Phil groaned but nodded and rolled the condom on, spreading lube onto it with one hand and fingering Dan with the other for good measure.

It wasn’t necessary, really. Dan knew he would have enough slick to make this easy despite him taking heat suppressors. He had also stretched before dinner, but he wasn’t about to mention that to Phil.

“Ready?” Phil positioned himself and looked into Dan’s eyes, as soon as he got a nod in response, he pushed in slowly, pausing once the head was in to allow Dan time to adjust and only continuing as he felt him relax around him. Once he had bottomed out he shifted his weight forward and kissed Dan softly - almost reverently. Dan smiled into the kiss and hugged Phil, wrapping his legs around him once again; he was so hard that it hurt and he could feel his hole pulsing around Phil in need, but he allowed himself to enjoy the moment.

Slowly, very slowly, Phil started to rock into him, pulling out just a bit before pressing in again. It was enjoyable yet maddening. Still, Dan didn’t ask for more; he had the feeling that Phil wanted to take things at his own pace and he had no problem with that. When Phil started to roll his hips and press firmly against his prostate, Dan let out a yelp that spurred Phil on. He picked up the pace and set a steady rhythm, pressing deeply into Dan in harsh thrusts that soon had him clawing at his back.

Dan was so close he could almost taste it; he was in heaven. This was what he’d been looking forward to all night, to see what Phil was capable of in bed and experience it first hand. He knew Phil would be good and he’d been right but -

Phil leaned down and whispered in his ear. “Ready?”

Dan didn’t know what Phil meant but whatever it was, he was definitely ready for it, so he nodded frantically. Phil grabbed Dan’s legs, putting them on his shoulders before setting a merciless pace that had Dan screaming at the top of his lungs, his eyes rolling to the back of his head and his toes curling.

“Touch yourself,” Phil commanded and Dan wrapped his hand around his cock, moving it in a blur and coming in a silent scream mere seconds later. Soon after, Phil thrust deep into him and stayed firmly pressed against his prostate as he came into the condom. The combination of the overstimulation with the feeling of the alpha’s cock pulsing into him sent Dan over the edge again.

“Fuck,” Dan said almost groggily as he wiped his chest with a corner of the sheet.

Phil pulled out, tied the condom and threw it to the floor. “Mmm, yeah we did,” he laughed and rolled to the other side of the bed.

“Shut up, idiot. Come here and cuddle me to sleep,” Dan pouted.

Phil pressed himself behind Dan and nuzzled the back of his neck. “I’m sorry, my Lord. I didn’t mean to stray so far away from you.”

“Mmm, don’t do it again,” Dan sighed. “And Phil?” he asked, his eyes closing already.

“Yeah?” Phil mumbled.

“Can I ride you when I wake up?”

“Ngh. Yes, please.”

“Ok, good night.”

“Night.”

Hot. Everything felt scorching hot around him and Dan couldn’t comprehend why. He frowned and tried to roll in bed but found that he couldn’t really move, his brain started to panic slightly until he remembered who was in bed with him. Dan did his best to turn in Phil’s embrace without actually waking him up and he thought he’d managed it until he felt Phil’s arms tighten around him and saw his lips quirk into a smirk. “Mmm, hi,” Phil whispered.

The moonlight coming through the window was just enough that he could make Phil’s features. Dan pouted and kissed him softly. “Boo! you were supposed to be asleep.”

“I am! I am so asleep.” Phil rolled onto his back and placed his arms on the pillow, linking his hands above his head. “I’m a helpless alpha. I wish there was a sexy omega here who could untie me in exchange for a favor,” he said, arching his back.

Dan snorted and buried his face in his hands. “Actually shut up.”

Phil turned towards him and pulled at one of his hands until he could kiss his lips.

Grabbing onto both of Phil’s hands and wrapping his legs around Phil’s hip, Dan flipped them so that he was straddling the alpha and pinning his hands down. He looked into Phil’s eyes with a smirk for a moment, feeling like the luckiest person in the world.

“What?” Phil asked.

Dan shook his head. “Nothing,” he said and kissed Phil deeply, slowly starting to roll his hips and moaning as he felt Phil starting to harden under him. He was doing this; he was in control of Phil’s pleasure and he was going to enjoy it thoroughly.

Phil moaned and writhed under him but made no attempt to take control which encouraged Dan to let his hands wander down. He dragged his nails on Phil’s chest eliciting a gasp followed by a moan that left Dan craving more, wanting to hear more of those sounds. His lips wandered down to Phil’s neck and suckled at the skin there while his hands made their way to Phil’s nipples. Now, that was the loudest moan Dan had heard from him yet so he kept pulling and pinching at the nubs softly as he settled a bit further back, aligning his cock with Phil’s and grinding down on him a bit faster.

“Fuck!” Phil said in a high pitch moan.

Dan lifted his hips immediately, he recognised the change in pitch from before, when Phil was about to come. “Where are the condoms?”

Phil whined and lifted his hips trying to get some friction. “Nightstand.”

Dan looked around for a moment but didn’t quite see them so Phil easily removed one of his hands from Dan’s grasp and patted around the nightstand for it, handing the box over to him. “Good pet,” Dan smiled, watching Phil’s cock twitch at the praise. He put the condom on Phil and put the tip just against his hole, looking into Phil’s eyes with a smirk as he sank down without resistance.

Time seemed to stop. Phil’s hands held onto Dan’s hips as he sat there, breathing slowly, willing his body to relax even more for what was ahead. He didn’t need a break as much as Phil did, his entire body tensed as he tried his best not to come. Dan cocked his head and evaluated his options before he made a decision.

“Phil?”

Phil opened his eyes and took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Yeah?”

“I’m going to ride you hard and fast and if you come before I’m done I’m just going to keep going. Is that understood?”

Phil’s eyes widened but he nodded excitedly. “Fuck yes!”

Dan rolled his hips experimentally, making them both moan; then, he placed his hands on Phil’s chest and shifted his weight forward as started to ride him in earnest. He used his whole body weight for the impulse, pulling out until only the tip remained inside him before sinking back and rolling his hips hard before rising again. The harder Dan rode him, the louder Phil moaned, gripping at Dan’s hips and trying to thrust up into him as well until Dan pinched his nipple and told him to be still.

“But I wanna do something, not just lay here,” Phil pouted.

Dan gasped as a particularly good thrust hit his prostate. “Good,” he panted. “Then make a fist for me to fuck into.”

“Fuck, you’re so hot when you are bossy,” Phil said and wrapped his hand around Dan.

Dan saw the lube lying close to them on the bed and reached for it. “Open,” he said as he uncapped the tube and poured some on Phil’s hand. “There.”

Phil wrapped his hand around Dan’s cock again and watched raptly, as Dan shifted his weight to his knees, alternating between sinking onto his cock and fucking into his fist desperately.

“Ah, Phil.” Dan was close - so fucking close. He closed his eyes and thought about how it would feel to fuck Phil. “Fuck!”

“Yes, baby. Use me, make yourself come on my cock.”

And he did. Not two minutes later, Dan’s body shook with the force of his orgasm, his hole clenching around Phil, his sensitive cock pulsing for what seemed like forever, his come landing on Phil’s chest and his chin. Phil poked his tongue out catching one of the last spurts and moaning as he came too.

Dan collapsed onto Phil’s chest, trying to catch his breath but not making any attempts to let Phil pull out; in fact, he moved the slightest bit, enjoying the overstimulation.

“Dan,” Phil gasped. “Fuck!” He held onto Dan’s hips and thrust up his softening cock gently, making them both twitch with the overstimulation until he couldn’t handle it anymore.

They laid like that for a few minutes until Dan finally decided to inch himself forward, letting Phil’s cock slip out of him, a trail of slick following it, and rolled off him. Phil tied the condom and threw it to the floor before pressing his messy chest to Dan’s side.

“Ew, dude!” Dan laughed.

“Hey, that’s your come, dude,” Phil said, making it a point to rub against him harder.

“Ugh,” Dan leaned down the side of the bed and grabbed a used t-shirt to wipe Phil’s chest with. “There. Now let me sleep,” he said, closing his eyes.

“No good night kiss?” Phil pouted.

Dan smiled and kissed him over and over and settled back down to sleep.

Phil wrapped one leg around Dan and rested his face on his chest, silently hearing him breathe. “Hey, Dan?”

“Mmm?”

“I love you,” Phil whispered and held his breath.

“Ok,” mumbled Dan. “Thanks.”

Phil frowned and raised his head, trying to see Dan’s expression but his eyes were already closed and his face relaxed, so he settled back down. Dan merely rubbed circles on Phil’s back with the tips of his fingers and sighed in content.

The following morning Phil woke up alone, no signs of Dan in the flat. He sent Dan a text asking: “Where are you?”

Half an hour later he got a reply: “I’m helping Charles with a personal project so we needed to meet before work.”

“Ok. Miss you,” Phil texted. “Dinner tonight?”

“We are going to be working late on the project for a while, Sorry. How about Friday?”

Phil’s stomach sank; it was only Tuesday. ‘This can’t be good,’ he thought. Even though insecurity was eating away at him, he didn’t want to be needy. “Ok U.u”

His phone dinged. “Miss you too btw ( ˘ ³˘)”

Phil smiled. Hopefully, everything was just in his head.

Next Chapter

#phanfiction #phanfic #succubusphan fics #yani's ospbb fic #ospbb

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frostsinth · 4 years

Text

Royal Flush - Pt. 6

Part 1|2|3|4|5 - MasterList - Art - Art - Art - Art - Art

Shit, it’s already part 6??!! Ok, so this update is REALLY long, but I assumed you guys wouldn’t mind. I hope you will enjoy the dynamics bewteen the characters I tried to play on here.

I’m already working on the next chapter, which will be a bit juicier. And there will probably be more art, since I love drawing these two, so be sure to keep an eye out for both!

If you like this story, check out my others on my MasterList above. Feel free to BuyMeACoffee while you are there. As always, drop me a ask/comment/reblog if you have any questions or thoughts! I always love to hear back from you guys.

“Well…” Damjan wheezed breathlessly, then hoisted himself up into a sitting position, “It seems you are in peak form today,” He looked up at me from where I had just laid him low, giving me a lopsided grin, “I’m guessing you and the King worked things out then, Your Highness?”

I offered him a hand sheepishly. “Apologies, General,” I replied as I hauled him back to his feet, which took the majority of my strength, “I hope I caused no injury nor insult.”

“Bah!” He grunted, releasing my hand and slapping his own down the front of his trousers to release the worst of the dirt. “I’d be a rotten wassa indeed if I let a fancypants shiba Prince keep me down.”

I considered the strange words only briefly before he forced me back into my defensive stance with a soft lunge. It didn’t surprise me; the half-goblin General always seemed to be poised to strike. More than once he had caught me off guard. But I was a fast learner, and he gave me a toothy grin in acknowledgement of my successful block. I nodded, and he executed another series of attacks that had me dancing back on my toes. For his size, Damjan was very quick. I was less attentive to the spar, however, and more so to his constant peppering of goblinese into our conversation. It was certainly a change from our previous meetings.

“Well, Your Highness?” He called as he dodged my returning attack, sending me shooting past him and spinning on heel to prepare for the next onslaught, “Did you two manage to reconcile your differences after all? And keep your knees up!”

I raised the edge of one eyebrow at him, side stepping his feint and landing a solid blow on his shoulder. “My apologies again, General,” I shot back, hiding a blush as I loosened my stance to circle around his outside, “But I don’t believe that is any of your business.”

“On the contrary.” He argued, lobbing two heavy blows towards my middle. I dodged one, deflected the other, taking a skimming hit for my efforts. “As the General of his Armed Forces, I am responsible for protecting him from attacks-” He caught my swinging fist in his, yanking me towards him “-Whatever form it may take.”

I gritted my teeth, rolling my hand free and spinning to launch my elbow up towards his chin. I knew what he was doing. Just like his seemingly random attacks, Damjan used constant verbal assaults as well. Anything to give him an edge. Generally I could tune out his taunts. But he seemed to have found my weak spot, and I couldn’t help lingering on his comment. He dodged my elbow effectively, laughing and dropping low to swing a leg out at my feet. I leapt up and kicked out, sacrificing a balanced landing for a hard hit that had Damjan falling back a few steps. I staggered, breathless, but had time to fix my grounding as he righted himself and squared me up. We paced around each other.

“I haven’t seen him yet today;” he began, my only warning before he charged in. A flurry of blows followed before he and I found ourselves grappling in close quarters for the upper hand. “So tell me, Your Highness... was he still asleep when you left him this morning?”

My focus slipped in my absolute bewilderment of his implication, and just like that, I found myself flat on my back. Jaw dropped open, eyes wide and staring at the blue mountain sky overhead. Damjan’s loud guffaw rippled through the air, and I jumped when his face appeared in my line of sight. He placed his hands on his knees, bending over me and cocking his head to the side.

“Don’t let anyone in your head if you don’t want them there, Your Highness.” He advised. His big, grey-green hand came down, grabbing my shoulder and yanking me back up. “Not everyone will use their advantage quite so charmingly as I.”

I scrambled to get my feet beneath me properly, blushing furiously. And hot with anger at such an intensely personal attack. I didn’t wait for him to ready himself, shamefully knocking off two quick blows before I had even regained my own solid footing. Damjan slapped both aside easily. One quick feint and sweep later, and I was staring slack jawed at the blue sky again.

“Don’t let them ruffle your feathers either.” He suggested, smirking down at me knowingly. He tapped his temple. “You can’t think straight if your head’s burning too hot.”

It took me an extra moment until the wind returned to my lungs, and I gasped. The General helped me up more delicately, patting my back helpfully as I sputtered.

“How.. How dare-” I gasped, trying to form the words at the same time I tried to regain my breath. I pushed away his hand.

He raised his palms, patting the air soothingly. “Apologies, Your Highness. I know that humans are not so comfortable with intimacy as goblins.” His ears flopped as he tilted his head to the side to consider me as I shifted my stance warily. “But I would be a poor teacher indeed if I didn’t try to prepare you.”

My lungs finally having resumed their normal function of breathing, I straightened slowly. Considering him with a stony glare while rubbing at an errant rib. He grinned sheepishly in the face of my look, raising his palms again.

“... Prepare me for what?”

“The Goblin Court.” His toothy grin widened. “There isn’t a goblin alive who doesn’t love to mess with anyone they can. And you will be the main target, as not only our future King, but also a shiba Prince.”

“Shiba?” I echoed dumbly, staring at him. It was not the first time he had used that word in reference to me.

“Human.” He translated, then placed his hand on his hip. “Seems I’m going to have to teach you a little goblinese as well.”

“Hibik is already finding an instructor for me.” I shot back defensively, wiping my hands together.

The General scoffed. “Yeah, and they’ll teach you real good book goblinese. But what about when one of those creampuffs at court calls you a baka lo minsa? Or mumbles diavrit? Hmmm? How much faith do you have in a little eincha from the academy teaching you proper goblinese vulgarities?”

My mouth opened and closed slowly, and I blinked at him again. “I… I don’t think-”

He shook his head. “The Goblin Royal Court is more ruthless than any battlefield. They think it's all in good fun, but I doubt you’d much enjoy it, Your Highness.” His grin returned, and he walked over to pat me on the back good naturedly. “Tell you what, we can trade! You teach me some good human curses, and I’ll teach you the goblin ones.”

I felt my face flush even hotter, and he laughed amiably. “... May I ask, General,” I started, rubbing at the back of my neck as he started walking over to the wall of the ring, “.... Why are you…ah..” ‘Helping’ seemed like the wrong word to use, based upon my sore back and ego. So I let the question hang without definition.

He grinned, picking up his towel and dabbing at the sweat across his chest. “You are a member of the Royal Family now, Your Highness,” He explained, “Which means you’re under my protection too.” He tossed me my own towel, his grin growing. “So don’t make me work too hard.”

The notion he proposed… being a part of their Royal Family. It set my stomach into an acrobatic routine. It was a concept I hadn’t fully realized yet, despite everything else. That not just my living situation was changing, but my family was changing. Into a completely new world with its own dynamic and history that I had no part in until this very week... I stared numbly at the towel in my hands for a moment before I wiped down my own torso. A breath later I grabbed my tunic and slipped on my boots then followed Damjan back into the castle. My spine itched with nerves now that the spar was over, and I peeked nervously down the dark halls. He cast a glance at me out the corner of his eyes, lips still twitching.

“‘Baka lo minsa’ means something like… brainless, uncultured fool. But much cruder.” He explained, despite the fact I hadn’t asked. “And ‘diavrit’ is… well, literally it means to defecate, though it's more specific as to the manner of defecation.”

I cleared my throat, nearly stumbling over the carpeted hallway. Damjan laughed, wringing his towel in his hands. “I’m not sure this is appropriate-”

“Goblins don’t care.” The General interrupted. “Appropriate, inappropriate. Those words just have less sway with us. There is nothing off the table when it comes to an interaction; whatever you can use to gain the upper hand, you use.” He steered us up towards my tower rooms. “Proper einchak like Hibik may prefer what you would call a more “appropriate” attack, but even they aren’t above calling out your mother’s sexual partners, or your own natural bodily functions. Or standing uncomfortably close. The game, you see, is to do it eloquently. To attack your companion, set them off balance, gain the upper hand, and to do so with a delicate, poetic flourish.”

My head was spinning and I wasn’t sure if it was my heartbeat or footsteps echoing in my ears. I swallowed hard, checking the edges of my mask to make sure I had maintained it throughout our conversation. It seemed by some miracle I had; I wondered if it was enough.

“I appreciate your… candor, General,” I replied finally, feeling secure and confident in my form, and he turned to face me as we reached the door to my rooms, “However, I do not require such vulgarities to ‘gain the upper hand’ as you say.”

He nodded, crossing his arms over his still bare chest and leaning against the wall. “Fair enough, Your Highness.” He agreed. “I have no doubt you are clever enough to outwit anyone, human or goblin. But even if you do not need to use such topics or language, you should still find a comfort and familiarity with them.” His big head dipped to the side. “In order to maintain your composure under heavy fire… Which will include hearing talk of your sexual relationship with the King.”

I nearly cracked my jaw with how hard I clenched it, and I was certain my mask slipped a little. I stammered something uselessly incoherent, and felt my face flush even darker. I pulled at the hem of my newly donned tunic and shuffled slightly, glancing around. Thankfully, we seemed to be alone. I quickly considered a range of different methods of excusing myself from the conversation and ducking into my chambers.

“We are very comfortable talking about sex.” Damjan interjected before I could find the right method. “It is certainly not taboo to discuss our lovers and antics. I myself am currently entangled with a delightful woman… and sometimes her brother instead.” He grinned. “Goblins are very open and accepting of all things of such a nature. The King’s previous partners are well known, and such discussion is commonplace amid the court.” He looked me up and down. “They will expect you to be equally open, and if they find you are unsettled by it, they will never let it go unaddressed.”

I swallowed hard, giving him a curt nod and fixing my stance. “Thank you for the advice General,” I told him, then quickly continued as he opened his mouth as if to add more, “I do apologize, but I must take my leave. I have to prepare for the rest of my day. Until tomorrow then.”

I barely gave him a chance to formally nod and offer a farewell before I ducked into my chambers. I wasn’t able to completely ignore the amused smile on his lips, and his words lingered in my mind even as I closed the door heavily behind me.

By the Gods and all that was holy. I leaned against the wall next to the door and slowly sank to the floor, cupping my head in my hands. Trying to calm my racing heart. How was I supposed to be comfortable speaking about such vulgar and intimate topics when the mere thought of them made me break down into an incoherent mess?! I didn’t even know how I felt about the King, or where our private relationship was headed. Yet I should expect everyone ELSE to be constantly discussing it around me??

I groaned, letting my head fall back and hit the wall. Of course, obviously the general consensus for any level headed person was that we were to be married; which implied there would be some form of… intimacy… My head throbbed with the amount of blood rushing through it, and I tugged at my collar. My mouth went dry at the thought, but I couldn’t help but wonder about… such things. Especially what Damjan had said about Grier’s previous partners… Exactly how many were we talking about?? Not that it mattered, I reminded myself. We had only known each other for a week, and he was a King after all. Young, handsome… virile. I certainly had not shared my own romantic history with him (not that there was much of a history to share), and I found myself surprised to be pleasantly comforted by the fact that at least one of us would know what we were doing in… that department. It sent a chilly rush down my spine as I wondered what Grier himself expected for such matters of physical intimacy. My fingers came up to my lips of their own accord, and I felt the tingling ghost of his hand at my cheek. Certainly I had… enjoyed our interactions so far… I shifted, not unfamiliar with my body’s response to his advances, but never having needed to really assess such things before. I had only ever been able to… By the Gods, I couldn’t even think about my own intimate exploits in a coherent sentence. I had no words, no real thoughts I could describe it with. I settled for images. Memories of the one time I had slipped up, and let my emotions get ahead of my sound reasoning. It filled me with heat, and my breath became shallow.

There was also the lingering guilt, the stab of regret. Painfully twisting cruel fingers into my heart. I sighed again, rubbing my hand over the top of my head. This was not going to be easy. I gritted my teeth, then forced myself to my feet. I didn’t have time to linger on such things though. I was due to meet the Dowager Queen soon. And found it less daunting that she was a notoriously sharp witted and harsh Goblin Monarch than the fact that she was Grier’s mother… I swallowed painfully and headed over to the bathing room.

I wasn’t sure exactly when the introductions would happen, and wanted to be prepared as best I was able. Damjan had given me a little insight into the former Queen, mostly regarding her reputation as an indomitable force. But he had been frustratingly unhelpful in advice on meeting her myself. He had merely grinned and said something along the lines of ‘that’s a personal matter between you and Grier’. I kicked the soiled towel aside from where I had dropped it on the floor, scowling. So our personal intimate life was up for discussion, but not what I was supposed to do when meeting my intended’s mother? Hardly seemed fair.

I was scrubbed and polished clean by the time a light knock came on the door nearly an hour later, and I rushed to pull the fresh tunic over my head. My wardrobe options were becoming painfully repetitive; soon all my things would be soiled beyond respectable use. I wondered how to brooch the topic with Grier, which conjured a horrible image of myself in bright, lavish colors with ridiculous necklines, streaming lace and frills and… Perhaps I could send for my own things instead. Though I dreaded composing that letter almost as much.

A different goblin than the one on my mind stood at the door, and he bowed his head respectfully as I opened my chambers. Beside him was a silver cart filled to nearly unbalancing it with covered plates and bowls. I considered him briefly; I was certain it was the same goblin whom had been attending me since my arrival. Bringing my food the previous days, and walking with me and Hibik to the gardens the evening before those.

“The King has sent word that he will call upon you shortly,” He began, his voice quiet, “And requested your shared breakfast be sent ahead. If Your Highness would permit me?”

I nodded quickly, stepping aside to allow him into the chambers. “Of course, thank you.”

The goblin bounded lightly at my words, a small smile coming to his large lips. He barely came to my navel, and had dark curls that fell about his copper eyes as he moved despite an obvious attempt to keep them out of his face with some sort of grease and a hair thong. I followed him as he pushed the cart in, bringing it to the bed chambers where he had set the previous meals at the small table there.

I idled momentarily on the impropriety of dining in my private chambers, and felt a little flush to my cheeks at the thought. Certainly it was not commonplace, though I had heard that my father occasionally took counsel in his rooms when needs arose early in the morning… I assumed Grier had not given nearly so much thought to it as I was now, however, and didn’t want to be a bother about it. Perhaps it was not unheard of for goblins. It wouldn’t surprise me at any rate, given what I had seen of them thus far. I distracted myself by considering the dark haired goblin again.

“I apologize for my rudeness,” I told him as he began to set out the dishes, “I never requested your name. Might I have it now?”

He gave me a small grin, averting his eyes politely. “It is Seoc, Your Highness. I have been assigned as your personal attendant. In whatever capacity you have need of me.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you,” I replied graciously, “I beg your forgiveness for not having made an effort to do so sooner.”

Seoc bowed lightly, a small smile on his lips, having finished setting the dishes out on the small table before the couch. “Quite understandable, Your Highness. It has been an eventful few days for you.” He cocked his head to the side. “Can I be of any further assistance at this time?”

I paused, if only momentarily, thinking back to my lack of attire, but then shook my head. “No, thank you, Seoc. I appreciate your time.”

He grinned, nodding respectfully. “I will be within ear shot, should you think of anything, Your Highness. Please do not hesitate to call.”

Just as he bobbed out, Grier strode in through the open door, and I had to work hard to keep from starting at the sight of him. Not only because of his sudden, light footed and casual entrance into my private chambers, but also due to his overall appearance. He wore a tight emerald vest with yellow embroidery over a billowous, fluffy cream colored shirt that spilled out the edges of the vest as if unable to be contained and ballooned at the sleeves. His pants were a dark grey, and were equally tight all the way up to his navel with large gold buttons the size of his palm along the midseam. The vest reached just past the top of his trousers, but the cream colored shirt spilled out the back like a puffy tail. His hair seemed particularly wild, and he had a scowl set onto his lips. Hibik trailed behind him, babbling something and scrambling to keep the parchment in his arms from dropping.

“The sun has only been up for a few hours, Hibik,” The King grumbled, waving his secretary into silence, “Allow me time to fully come to my senses before you test them.”

I tucked my hands behind my back, squaring my shoulders and swallowing my nerves as the goblin turned to face me. “Good morning, Your Majesty.” I greeted him, though felt a tingle of unease that threatened to burst into a fully formed tension.

His scarlet eyes considered me, and he sighed heavily. “Don’t start with that again.”

“I’m afraid I do not know what-”

He waved his hand again, cutting me off. I pursed my lips as he turned to his secretary. “Another hour’s peace, Hibik, at least. Let me have some coffee, and hopefully some pleasant company. I trust your judgement on these things.”

Hibik nodded, bobbing nervously. “Of course, my King.”

Grier turned back to me as the other goblin darted out, closing the door behind him. “Did you sleep well?”

I blinked momentarily, confused by his switch. Eventually I nodded, though slowly. “... I did, thank you.” I noticed him looking about, the small scowl on his lips seeming to deepen. “Ah… did you as well, Your-”

“I will scream.” He threatened me curtly, narrowing his scarlet eyes. I clamped my mouth shut, my eyes widening slightly. Grier gave another deep sigh, shaking his head.

He strode to the bedroom without waiting for my invitation. I stiffened at that, but followed behind quietly. Again, I saw him look about, placing his hands on his hips. His brow scrunched, yet he said nothing, plopping down on the couch with a huff. My tongue itched to speak out against that, and I felt a tingling of insult at his behavior. But I settled into practiced temperance and withheld my comments. I reminded myself that it was likely just a simple misunderstanding… After all, I was his guest, and his future spouse. Perhaps it was not rude to assume such casual familiarity. I saw his nose twitch, and he looked over the plates and dishes before reaching for a decanter and cup. I too could smell the thick aroma of the hot brown liquid as he poured himself a serving. What had he called it? Yes, that’s right, coffee-

“HIBIK!” He shouted loudly, and I jumped in surprise.

There was a clatter and a crash from the hallway beyond the foyer. Then the small man quickly darted in, bowing repeatedly. I stared at him, a little taken aback.

“Y-yes my King?”

Grier waved his hand about. “Do I even have to say?”

“Ah, no, my King… Apologies I-”

“Who is his attendant again?” The King leaned back, his brow dark and his scowl somehow even deeper.

“Ah, that.. That would be-” Hibik scrambled through the parchment in his hands.

“Seoc.” I informed him, my voice a little tight. Both goblins froze, staring at me with surprise. As if they had forgotten I was there for a moment. I considered them both. “Is something wrong?”

Grier made a soft ‘tch’ with his mouth, sipping at his coffee slowly. Hibik glanced at him, then offered me a polite bow. “My fervent apologies, Your Highness, for the state of your rooms. I had intended to send up a designer for your consult as we discussed, but there was a delay in procuring the usual Royal decorators.”

I tried to puzzle together the implications of his response, but found I could not fathom what had them both in such a tizzy. “No apologies necessary, Lord Hibik-”

“It is unacceptable!” Snapped Grier, interrupting me. I felt my own temper flare, and clenched my jaw. “You, a Royal guest who is also my betrothed, to be treated so shamefully. No wonder you would think us uncivilized.” He started to turn back to Hibik. “No further delays. I want these rooms properly furnished before-”

“I beg your pardon, Your Majesty,” I interjected, a little louder than I had intended, taking a bold step closer, “But I will remind you that you have given me these rooms to do with ‘as I wish’, and as such, I will not be accepting any additional furnishings or decor at this time.”

The sharpness in my voice had him falling silent, and his slender brows shot up. Hibik glanced nervously between the two of us. I waited a breath, holding the goblin King’s scarlet eyes.

“... You mean, you like your chambers like-?”

“Lord Hibik, thank you, but we will not require your services at this time. You may go. I am sure you already have enough to keep you busy.” I informed him, ignoring Grier for a moment. I heard him begin to sputter behind me, but nodded to the smaller goblin who hesitated for a moment with a glance to the King before bowing and making his exit.

“You would dismiss my secretary-”

“Apologies, Your Majesty,” I interrupted him again as he had me, turning to face him properly, “However, if this is not to your satisfaction, I am certain as King you have numerous options available for where you may take your breakfast. I will not keep you from them.”

“Are you… kicking me out?” He sounded both equally astonished and perhaps arrogantly bemused that I would dare order anything of him at all. Perhaps he was not used to be refused so pointedly. Or eloquently.

I stiffened, squaring my jaw and considering him. “I would hate for Your Majesty to be uncomfortable. If you feel the setting is not to your standards, you are welcome to leave it.”

Again, he fell silent. Staring at me in unsuppressed surprise. Part of me hoped he would leave. I had never seen him so rude and demanding. It was off putting and I did not enjoy it in the least, and it left a bitter anger rolling in my gut. Was this the real Grier, I wondered? Had the rest been some act? The other part of me hoped there was some rational explanation… certainly he had shown his emotional range in such a manner before, but this time seemed wholly unprovoked. I held his gaze, unwavering in my stubbornness. Pitting my will against his. Finally, he broke the stalemate by slowly raising his cup to his lips and taking a careful sip. I wasn’t sure how he managed to make even that look arrogant. I continued to wait, my anger still twisting in my gut, hands still clasped behind my back.

“... Forgive me,” He grumbled, leaning back and taking another deep sip, “I am told I am not a ‘morning person’... I would like to stay, if that’s alright.” A small smirk played across his lips. “Though I have to say… I rather like this authoritative side of you.”

I felt my face flush, and just like that the bastard gained the upper hand again. His grin grew, and he patted the couch next to him. I paused, looking him up and down. Not entirely sure I was willing to forgive his earlier rudeness so easily. He finished off the last of his coffee and reached for the pot to refill his cup, flipping over another as he did and filling it as well. Slowly, I moved over. He held out the cup as humbly as he could manage, and I took his peace offering warily, sitting down at the opposite arm of the couch

“... I am often… less than courteous before noon.” He told me conversationally. “But I am sorry if I came off as… ah…” I checked on him out of the corner of my eye. “... More of an ass than usual, yes?”

“I believe Lord Hibik received the brunt of your ‘morning person’.” I replied lightly, keeping my tone as formal as possible and still not looking at him directly.

Grier sighed again, wincing. “Yes… I shall have to apologize to him… Though I fear he is far too accustomed to my morning antics.” He gave me a tiny, mischievous grin. “Despite the circumstances surrounding it... It is nice to see you speaking out… If I can otherwise encourage you to speak your mind, I will hasten to do so.”

I took a sip of the coffee in my hands, dropping my gaze. Silence spread between us for a long moment, and I felt my ears burn as it gave me time to remember the last time I had seen the King. More specifically, how his lips had tasted against mine. What did he expect of this interaction? I recalled the way he had so casually sauntered into my rooms, without asking my leave. For that matter, what did I expect? I was suddenly painfully aware of the proximity of my bed to us, and the invitation I had proposed to him last night. As well as how it could have been taken... I wondered if by goblin standards, that invitation had carried over until today. I swallowed my nervousness with another sip as he straightened, reaching out and plucking up what looked to be some strange baked treat from the trays in front of us. I saw his eyes skim about the room again as he leaned back and took a small bite.

“You really like your rooms like this?” I followed his eyes, considering the mostly bare room. I hesitated, chewing over an appropriate response. “Speak your mind, yes?” He reminded me. “You most of all should always be free to do so.”

I looked down into my cup, quiet for a moment longer. “... They are sufficient.”

“They are boring.” He mused, taking another bite of his pastry. “I know you said the rest of the castle was too loud, but surely you’d at least like some more furniture?”

I rolled my thumb along the edge of my cup before taking a slow sip, casting my eye around the room. The large four poster bed, the fireplace. The simple couch and small table. The bare walls and floors, devoid of personal effects and most color. It felt… strange. Empty and hollow, the shell of a real life. But somehow I found I preferred it this way. It felt… safe. A place to hide away and avoid facing the daunting spans of the rest of my life.

“... They are sufficient.” I repeated softly.

Grier plucked another of the baked treats from the tray and held it out to me. “It’s a bit early to dig for the emotional confession behind that answer. Can I perhaps tempt you with a goblin pastry instead?”

I almost smiled at his teasing, but lightly took the roll from his hand. He made sure our fingers brushed and I glanced at his eyes as they did. I pretended the heat wasn’t returning to my face, bringing the roll to my nose for an experimental sniff before taking a bite.

The dough was warm and flaky, and the inside was filled with some sort of ground meat. There was a burst of flavor, spicy and tart, quickly overlaid by the buttery softness of the dough. My eyes widened slightly in surprise, and I chewed thoughtfully. Very aware of his scarlet eyes watching me carefully.

“They are called uyapi,” He told me, turning to pick up another one for himself, “The outside dough is universal, but the fillings change depending on the meal and occasion. For breakfast, usually the goblin equivalent of sausage.”

He bared his sharp pointy teeth as he spread his jaw as wide as it would go to fit the entire roll in his mouth in one oversized bite. I observed him in bewilderment as he chewed, his cheeks ballooned out almost comically.

I took a more delicate bite of the remainder of mine, nodding slightly. “It is good.” I told him quietly.

He swallowed the last of his. “The nice thing about them is they have a bit of everything, so are almost like a small meal in every bite.” He noted. “There’s meat, diced vegetables, and often cheese as well as the dough.” I watched as he brought his long fingers to his mouth, licking each one slowly.

My mouth went dry at the sight of his long tongue, and I quickly looked for something else to occupy my thoughts. Even as my face grew hot. I took a deep sip of the coffee before placing the cup back on the small table, straightening a little in my seat. I finished the last of the pastry and reached for another.

“I will be trying to spend as much time with you as possible,” He told me, unaware of my internal struggle and leaning back with a third cup of coffee, “To hopefully… ease the transition. I hope you don’t mind.”

I shook my head slowly, swallowing the last of the uyapi and reaching for my drink again. “It sounds like the appropriate course of action… given our circumstances.”

His thin lips spread in a wide smile, and he cocked his head to the side as I took a slow sip. “Our circumstances, hm? You mean how I have already fallen hopelessly head over heels for you while I can only assume that even if you did feel the same way, you wouldn’t even know?”

I sputtered into my coffee, my face burning hotter than my drink. I coughed to clear my airway, placing the cup back on the table. I saw his grin grow, but his eyes were soft. I watched him out the corner of my eye as I dabbed a napkin at my mouth and chin. There was a warmth in the edges of his ruby reds, an echo of what I had seen the day before. I swallowed hard, my head spinning, and stared down at the napkin in my hands.

“.... Forgive me yet again… You are just always so serious and proper,” He swirled his coffee, considering me with a tiny smirk, “It is amusing to see you all flustered, knowing that I put you there.”

I remembered what Damjan had said about the Royal Court, and squared my jaw. Taking a steadying breath and relaxing my features to the best of my ability. I couldn’t help a glance at him again, and noticed him place his half finished drink on the table by mine. I felt the cushion beneath us shift as he slid a little closer.

“.... Not to mention you look very cute when you are surprised.”’

I slid as far away as I could manage, blinking rapidly. “I-I do not like to be.” I stammered, my lips feeling numb and mostly useless. “I prefer to always have control.”

His grin grew, and I felt my flush deepen, wondering what hidden meaning he had taken from my response. “Noted.” He pushed his hair back out of his face. “However, as I was saying, it would make things easier for you to accompany me as I complete my regular duties. Then not only could we become more… accustomed to each other’s presence and preferences, you would also be able to become more familiar with goblin society.” He cocked his head to the side. “You would be a greater boon as a husband if you were able to help me govern my people. Though I would also relish simply keeping you as a trophy in my chambers as well. You are certainly handsome enough-”

“I have spent my life training in royal duties and assisting the Crown Prince,” I interrupted him quickly, and ignoring the flash of his sharp teeth as he smiled again, “I would be pleased to utilize those skills and obtain new ones in the aid of your people.”

“Our people.” He corrected, sounding amused. “Soon enough, at least. And I suspected you might not be the type to sit idly by. However, I believe this might be easier accomplished if you might permit me to cast the charm on your eyes we discussed.” His smile faded, and one long finger came up to tap his pointed chin. “Though perhaps not today, as you wished to better understand the magic before it was cast upon you. I can procure a book I am certain, though it may take a few days to find one in common or have one translated.”

“I-I…” I stopped as soon as my words stammered out, and swallowed hard. Grier looked back at me, curious. “If… If you think it would be best,” I started again, then reached up to rub at the back of my neck, “I… I would trust your judgement and… and you.”

Now it was his turn to look surprised, and I looked at him through my dark lashes. He stayed silent for a moment, then the warmth returned to his eyes. “... You would trust me?” I nodded shyly. “... I don’t mind waiting. Your request is quite reasonable-”

“I trust you.” I spoke the words softly, timid and sheepish. But their honesty was undeniable to either of us, and I felt him shift slightly in his seat even as those words settled deep into my chest. It was odd to admit… but I did trust him.

“... I’ll have to touch you.” He explained, lifting his hands with his palms out as if to illustrate his meaning.

I nodded my consent, and he continued, sliding closer. Reaching up and gently cupping my face with his fingers on my temples and his palms against my cheeks. I bowed my shoulders and leaned a little lower so he could reach me more easily. I felt him skim his thumbs against my eyelashes, and blinked instinctually. His touch was light, but his skin was warm. My head swam as soon as it touched mine, and I almost missed his next words as my heart thundered in my ears.

“This won’t hurt,” He assured me gently, “But it will feel a bit strange… Try not to move.”

I nodded again, my movement slightly impeded by his hands. I saw him stiffen slightly. Noticed his eyes flick down to my lips. I wasn’t entirely sure if my heart had stopped, but I was pretty positive my breathing had. And he hadn’t even started the spell yet. He cleared his throat lightly, then closed those startling ruby reds. Freeing me to look down at his own lips without scrutiny. I watched them begin to move slowly, and could almost see them tracing the sounds out in the air with each syllable. The words he spoke were entirely foreign to me, but I felt a strange tingling sensation at his fingertips against my temples. It spread, like cool, trickling water, or hundreds of tiny little pine needles. It didn’t hurt, as he had promised, and as it reached my eyes his thumbs moved. I closed my eyes, felt him trace his thumbs over the lids. Still murmuring softly. It was warm then, like I was looking at the sun through my eyelids. It seemed to seep back, deeper than my eyes, and I let out a little breath as his thumbs moved away and the sensations faded with his voice.

I knew the shape of his mouth now, as it brushed against my own. I drew back in the breath I had released silently, but otherwise didn’t move. I kept my eyes closed as he gently trailed his lips along mine. It was brief, just a feather light kiss. Yet still my head spun like a top and it took me more than a single breathing cycle to let my eyes flutter back open after he leaned back.

He was watching me, his hands lingering on my face. I adjusted my tongue in my mouth, studying those scarlet eyes of his. “... Was that part of the spell?”

“No.” He admitted sheepishly. “I just... couldn’t resist the temptation.”

“...Well… you’d make a terrible monk...” I mumbled.

He laughed, running his thumb across my cheekbone. I flushed hotter at his delighted smile, and after another moment deigned to straighten. Slowly pulling my face out of his hands. He shook his head, still grinning like a fool.

“Obviously you are a morning person.” He said, bemused. “All quick witted and reserved… how long have you been up?”

“Since dawn.” I replied, looking around the room curiously. But nothing seemed to look different.

“An ungodly hour.” Grier grumbled, shaking his head, then his voice became tender. “Though, perhaps you could convert me to… What are you doing?”

I jumped from my slow rotation of studying the bedchamber, turning back to him embarrassedly. “I-I was… Just seeing if…”

He smiled knowingly. “You won’t notice a difference in here. You could already see in this light before.” Then he stood, straightening his vest before looking down at me. “You can see if it works sufficiently in the halls on our way to my mother’s quarters. Come.”

I jumped up at his words, my heart skipping, then quickly tried to brush away my suddenness with a glance around. His smile quirked to one side, and I cleared my throat. Fixing my composure back into place. He gestured to the table, but I shook my head before he could ask. I certainly wasn’t going to be able to eat any more now.

“Relax.” He told me comfortingly as he led the way towards the foyer. “She doesn’t bite.” I tried to listen to him, burying my fretfulness and following him out into the hall. “... Not that hard, anyway.”

“Grier,” I let slip unintentionally and unable to completely keep the exasperation from my voice.

His laughter proceeded us down the hallway.

….

“Mother?” Grier called softly following his knock, cracking the door open and poking his head around. “Are you decent?”

A scoff came from the room beyond him, and I resisted the urge to shift nervously at his shoulder. “Am I ever, mo apawiwi?”

Grier sighed heavily, shaking his head. “I meant that I have brought a visitor, inana. May I bring him in?”

“Do as you like!” Came the hazardous voice, thin but still strong. “You are King, are you not?”

He groaned, shouldering the door open and walking in. He gestured for me to follow him, which I did. Though much more slowly and less languidly than he. I kept my spine stiff, my shoulders squared, with my hands tucked into the small of my back and my heart in my throat.

The room we entered was grandiose, with high ceilings and thick draping curtains around the walls. There were a great many items of furniture; here a desk, there an armoire. In the corner a long table with a shelf built along one end. Most in a dark, polished wood though occasionally a lighter pine sprinkled amid the others. And of course, each of these available surfaces was covered in items. Delicate and expensive looking bottles of what I imagined must be perfume. Gems and jewels, necklaces and earrings. Books and large hats. Maps and parchment, quills and inkwells, globes and strange models of things I had no name for. A few small stone busts or statues, some of stone, others of wood, still more of copper. I wasn’t sure where to place my focus, as each time I shifted it I found a million things to see. I found that my enchanted eyes were easily able to define the shapes of everything, down to minute details. But the colors, which I imagined were just as loud as in every other part of the castle, were subdued. For which I was grateful; the clutter alone was overwhelming, not to mention the heavy smell of old perfume and worn cotton.

The King led the way towards the center of the room, where a great chair with a high, plush back was set amid piles and piles of trinkets like a dragon’s hoard. It was perpendicular to the door, requiring us to walk around to the side to approach it head on. Which we did, and which also gave a pair of beady red eyes time to carefully run us over from head to toe.

The Dowager Queen was small, her thin shoulders hunched and bowed with age. I could see the distinct shape of her bones in her skinny arms as they extended to rest her thin hands on the head of an ornate cane that tapped the ground between her knobby knees. She wore a large dress, poofy and full of lace and frills, which enveloped her tiny form like a cloud, spilling over the arms of the chair and bunching at her little shoulders. Her nose was similar to Grier’s, though a little longer and more hooked at the end. She had the same eyes, the same brows, though her face was more rounded than his, and her ears, while wider around the middle, still curled back towards her face in the same way his did. It was impossible to say what color her hair had once been, as it was bleached as white as fresh snow, but looked equally as soft piled into a neat bun on the top of her head. She jingled like a bell from all the jewelry she was adorned with as she tilted her head, scarlet eyes studying me as I came around to her front. I stopped a respectable distance away, tucking my heels together and dipping my head politely.

“Mother, this is Prince Nikostratus.” Grier introduced me, going to his mother’s side and dropping to one knee by the arm of her chair. “Prince Nikostratus, allow me to introduce the Dowager Queen Morag.”

I bowed slightly at the waist, dropping my eyes respectfully. “Your Grace.”

My neck itched from the weight of her gaze on me, but I kept my head bowed for a long moment. Trying to deny the twitch in my fist clasped tightly behind my back. When I finally did straighten, her eyes followed me, and her head tilted to the other side.

“Khos kala ka, spaye halshalen shiba wa.” She intoned, considering me still.

I was incapable of hiding the helpless flick of my eyes to Grier at her words. He seemed embarrassed, and rubbed at the back of his neck.

“Ah… She said-”

“If I had been speaking for his ears, I would have spoken in Common, apawi.” She snapped, then flicked her fingers. “Cuir om, my child. Who is this shiba? Why have you brought him?”

“Well, Mother, Prince Nikostratus is to be my husband.” He explained, and I could see the anxiousness plainly on his face as he shifted on his knees by her side. “We-”

“Kashta vol! What is this nonsense you speak?” She cut him off again, her voice louder, and he winced, opening his mouth just to have her wave her hand to silence him and turn to me. “Non, come closer, shibakin. You will answer, not this abhama who would try to lie to his ina, and let me see your eyes when you do.”

I did as bidden, though my heart thrummed loudly in my ears. I took a few steps towards her, maintaining a respectable distance. I shifted my stance, shrinking my body as much as possible without actually bending or crouching down and making an effort not to loom over her. She seemed to consider this, reaching up to run her long fingers along her chin. I met her eyes firmly, burying my nerves and fretfulness deep down. Etching my face into stone to hide whatever she might try to pry from me. I saw Grier wince again, but ignored him. I didn’t have time to focus on appeasing both goblins at the same time.

“Why do you marry my son?” She demanded, her Common thickly accented with the rolling syllables of goblinese but still clear to the ear.

“We broker a peace between our two kingdoms with our marriage.” I told her honestly.

“Shiba men do not enjoy shiba men.”

My jaw stiffened. “Not openly.”

“You are a Prince?” She pressed.

“Yes.”

“The firstborn?”

“Secondborn. I would not take the throne.” I replied.

“So you seek one.”

“No.”

“Then why marry a King?”

“To end a war.”

“Even though he is goblin?”

“Yes.”

“For whom do you end the war? Yourself? For renown?”

“No.”

“Then whom?”

“My sister. My people.”

“For shiba.”

“For shiba and goblin.”

“Not for your King.”

“... No.”

She fell silent for a moment after her rapid fire, steepling her fingers before her chin. Her eyes studied my face. I was careful to keep it blank, but firm. Certain and undeniable. I saw Grier’s eyes darting back and forth between us. Thought I saw him chewing his bottom lip. But I refused to look away from the diminutive goblin in front of me. She straightened, shifting in her seat. As relaxed as I was on edge, though I hoped my composure held well beneath her scrutiny.

“PAYE!” She shouted, and we both jumped. “Bring chairs for my guests.”

An attendant darted from the next room, quickly dragging over two chairs. I hastened to help them as soon as I saw them nearly buckle under the weight, and they offered me a grateful look. I was vehemently aware of the Queen’s eyes still following me, and noticed Grier nearly trip over himself as he stood and settled in the offered chair.

“When will you wed?” She demanded as I took my own seat.

“It will take time to plan, inana,” Grier explained, rubbing his hands over his knees, “Perhaps next spring-”

“Pah!” She scoffed, waving her hand at him. “I am old, mo apawi. I do not have such time to wait about. You!” She turned on me, pointing with one bony finger. “Shibakin. You will send for your mother. You learn the most about a boy from his mother.”

I stiffened, and felt my jaw clench a little tighter. I saw Grier open his mouth, looking a little pained, but I shook my head slightly. Catching his words before they left his mouth.

“I am afraid my mother passed when I was a teenager, Your Grace.” I told her myself, hoping my voice didn’t sound too thin.

She clicked her tongue, making a soft sound in her throat as she considered this. “You have a sister, yes?” I nodded. “Then you will bring her.”

“...She is nine.”

“All the better.” She scoffed. “Children are always honest.”

“Mother, I don’t think it’s the best-”

“PAH!” She shouted, silencing her son again. “You don’t think Grier. That is your greatest fault. You have no patience.” Her scarlet eyes flicked over to me. “How am I to know what kind of man this Prince is if I cannot speak to his family?”

“You could ask me.” I replied dryly. Then instantly clamped my mouth shut as her beady eyes narrowed. Internally I kicked myself. What had ever possessed me to-

“PAH!” She barked, though this time it sounded more like a laugh. Her thin lips twisted into a smirk. “Would you answer? Do you know yourself, shibakin?”

I hesitated, then dropped my eyes. “... No.”

“PAH!” She laughed again, rubbing her hands over the head of her cane. “He is a clever one then.” I jumped as the end of the stick came up and tapped my knee. “Let me tell you, shibakin. No one knows who they are. Many think they do, but they are wrong.” She tapped my knee again, and I met her eyes. “If you wish to know someone, see them through the eyes of those they love. That is where you will find your answer.”

“That is wise, Your Grace.” I said humbly. “...What may I learn from you of the King then?” I noticed Grier shoot me an embittered look. I hid my amusement well.

“Of course it is!” She cried, then turned and smacked her cane against his leg. “Pah! I like this one, apawiwi! You will keep him.” She glanced back at me. “As for this abhama!” She whacked him again. “He never thinks! He never waits! He just acts acts acts!” She punctuated each repetition of the word with a whack against his leg. Grier scowled, trying to swat the stick to the side unsuccessfully. She was quicker than I would have expected.

“Mother!” He hissed, and I thought I saw his cheeks burn a little darker. “I am a grown man. You cannot-”

“PAH!” She shouted, smacking him one last time for emphasis. “You are a child still, apawi, because you still act like one. Perhaps marrying this shiba will calm your passion.” Morag turned back to me, and I eyed her cane warily. “He is passionate, yes? He is heat and fire and burns at both ends. He feels everything. And he wears it on his ridiculous looking sleeves.” I pursed my lips to keep them from twitching. “You! You, shiba. You are cool, and calm. You are stone in a storm. You think before you act. Two minutes and I see this plain!” She banged her cane on the ground at the foot of her chair. “Teach this abhama some of your ways. And he will help you crack your mask to burn hot as he does, shibakin.” She nodded, as if agreeing with herself as she thought her words through.

“His name is Nikostratus, ina.” Grier grumbled, crossing his arms in a pout over his chest. “Not shibakin.”

“Pah!” She scoffed. “I am old, cai thani, I do not have time for such a long name.” She banged her cane against the floor. “PAYE! Bring us drinks! Ash usi yage!”

“Ina!” He scolded. “It is not even noon!”

He jerked his legs up to avoid her swinging cane. “PAH! I am cai thani, what do I care for noon? It does not wait for me. I shall not wait for it.” Morag turned back to me. “You, mo shiba, shall bring me your sister. I have always wanted a daughter. And this siut abhama,” She swung at Grier again, “Is quick in everything but giving me grandchildren.”

I tried to sort out her words, blinking slowly. The goblin attendant returned, and I found a glass pressed into my hand. It was filled with a clear liquid, and I could already smell the strong vapors wafting from it. I glanced at Grier, who had a different shaped glass in his own hand. But considering the grimace on his face, I was guessing his held the same liquor as mine.

“I would be honored to bring my sister here,” I started carefully, watching the little old goblin draw in a deep, pleased breath from her own glass, “But I am afraid there may be… other complications Your Grace-”

“PAH!” She shouted, and clapped the bottom of her cane on the ground again. “You will call me ina, mo shibakin. Ina Morag. And what what? What is this you speak? ‘Complications’? PAH! You are a Prince, no?”

“Yes, but-”

“There is no but!” She snapped. “You want her to come? You bring her. There, I make it simple.” Scarlet eyes darted to her son. “Perhaps I am wrong. Perhaps you are better match because you are both abhamak.”

“Your Grace-”

“Ina Morag! Ina Morag!” She practically shouted. Snapping her cane against the floor. “You are deaf, mo shibakin?” She turned back to Grier. “You are not teaching him goblinese? Gunum! That I should have a son that would not know my own language. Nare!”

“Nikostratus has barely been here a week, ina,” He breathed exasperatedly, rubbing at his brow with one hand, “We already decided to procure-”

“Gunum! You make excuses, Grier. Teach the boy goblinese. Nisle! Yes?”

He nodded, smirking. “Yes, inana. I hear you.”

“Pah!” She leaned over to me, holding one hand by her mouth conspiratorially. “He says this, and then as soon as I am out of ear, he will do what he wants anyway.” She nodded to me. “Do not let your manwe pull this on you, mo shiba.” A familiar mischievous grin spread her thin lips. “I will teach you his tricks, mo shiba. I am his inana. I know them all.” She tapped her cane lightly on the floor. “Come and visit your ina Morag. You are welcome here.”

I dropped my gaze, flattered and feeling heat rising to my ears. I heard her laugh, and recognized in its echo another thing her son had inherited from her. I chanced a peek at him out of the corner of my eye, and saw him hiding a small smile, his face equally flushed.

“Hechi!” She proclaimed, her voice softer than I had yet heard it. She held her glass high. “To your union, yes? And your future together.”

I recognized a toast when I heard one, and raised my own glass in a soft salute. I gritted my teeth as I brought the strong smelling liquor to my lips. I tried not to let it linger in my mouth longer than necessary. But I wasn’t entirely sure I hadn’t just swallowed fire. I heard Grier coughing as he downed his own, and felt the corners of my eyes water as I tightened my jaw and resisted the burn in my own throat.

Morag chuckled, seemingly unaffected by hers. She tapped one long boney finger and the attendant returned to refill her glass. They didn’t bother to offer more to us, for which I was glad. Manners aside, I wasn’t certain I would be able manage a second. The burn settled heavily in my stomach, and I swallowed a few times trying to clear it.

Suddenly, the old Queen began to speak again, long and flowing sentences in goblinese. I couldn’t even attempt to follow along, let alone pull individual words out. Again, her voice was soft, and though she looked at me as she spoke, I could see Grier stiffen in his seat. When she finished, there was silence for a long moment, and it rang in my ears. I turned to the King to find his face a little pale and his lips tight.

Finally, he nodded, looking down at the floor. “... Tasu, inana.”

I didn’t know the word, but it sounded affirmative, as if he were confirming something she had said. Her eyes finally fixed on him, her head tilting to the side. She spoke a shorter sentence in goblinese, and I could feel the tender warmth in it. I shifted, uncomfortable to sense such a moment between mother and son, even if I couldn’t understand what was being said. It was intimate, and I felt as though I were trespassing. After she finished, Grier hesitated before nodding. A moment later he stood.

“She wishes to speak to you alone for a moment,” He told me as I started to follow him, “...I’ll wait in the hall.”

My composure almost slipped, but I managed to keep it as he took up his mother’s hand. Then bent down and gave her a gentle kiss on the cheek. She smiled, patting his face fondly. He passed me one last look, which I couldn’t quite read, then left. Leaving me alone with the Dowager Queen.

She waited until the door clicked closed behind him, eyeing me all the while. I stayed still under her scrutiny, but felt my heart going a mile a minute in my breast. The minutes ticked by in silence, and I waited with practiced patience despite the knots slowly tying and untying themselves in my stomach.

“I have but one son.” She began finally, tapping her glass quietly. “One child. Grier is my everything, shibakin. And I would see him happy before I die.” She sighed, taking a sip and leaning back in her chair. “It does not matter what I say, he will do what he wants in the end. But I would know you, so that perhaps when my time comes I can go in peace.”

I straightened slightly, rolling the empty glass in my own hands. “I will give you whatever peace I can offer, Your Grace.”

“Hmmm. I see you do that.” She jerked her chin at me. “I have known you ten minutes, and I see it. You hide yourself, whenever emotions might show. You become stone.” I tried not to tighten more at her words, and therefore prove their weight of truth. “... But I sense you feel things strongly. Perhaps even more strongly than Grier does.” I said nothing, yet felt her words sink inside me like an anchor off the side of a ship. Dragging me down to dark depths. “... Do you love my son?”

I felt cold at her words, and my jaw clenched. “I barely know him, Your Grace. We just met a few days ago.”

“So? Does this matter?”

“... I am not sure I know what it means..” I admitted to her weakly, my voice soft but honest.

“You love your sister.” She pointed out. “You build a peace for her.”

“Yes, but... that is different.”

“Can you love my son?”

I almost winced. “I do not know.”

“Does he make you happy? Or is this a marriage of necessity?”

I thought about that for a long, quiet moment. I considered just telling her what she wanted to hear. Just speaking sweetly to soothe her conscience. I shifted, looking down at the ground without really seeing it. Knowing I couldn’t do it.

“... It started with my responsibility to my Kingdom. To bring peace.” I told her honestly, my voice hesitant and uncertain. “But… He’s been… I-I…” I gritted my teeth. “I am… not very good at expressing myself.”

“Hmmm.” She tilted her head to the other side. “When you touch, does your mind spin?”

“... Yes.”

“When you see him, does your heart skip?”

“... Yes.”

“Have you kissed him?” I blushed furiously. She scoffed at that, and her jewels jangled as she shook her head. “And?”

I thumbed the glass, and felt my blush deepen. But I forced the words from my lips. “A-and … I can’t breathe… I can’t… think… I have no words, but feel I have so much to say…” I shook my own head. “I apologize, that makes no sense.”

“Love doesn’t make sense, abhama shibakin mo.” She replied, sounding amused. “I was not sure I loved his father when we married. Perhaps I did not then. But I came to love him.” Her voice became pained. “I miss him every day now.”

“I am sorry for your loss, Your Grace.”

“I am sorry for yours, shiba apawi mo.” She tapped my boot lightly with her cane. “Call me ina, yes? Ina Morag. Make an old lady happy.”

“As you wish… Ina Morag.” I tried not to mumble, and glanced up at her as I spoke.

She gave me a kind smile. “You do make him happy, mo shiba. It is obvious to anyone who knows him. Just in the way he looks at you. I never thought Grier would be one to settle his wild spirit with one heart. But, I believe he has settled his heart on yours… And I believe one day your heart will settle into his.” She smirked. “Though you may not notice when it does.” A laugh this time. “You may just wake up one day and realize it's there, and has been for a while.”

My blush returned. “...I would be lucky then, ina Morag… You have a good son.”

“Pah!” She exclaimed then waved her hand at me. “Now away with you, mo shibakin. Your youth has drained mine, and I must rest now.” She smacked me lightly with her cane as I moved to stand. “But come back soon, yes?” A familiar grin settled on her lips. “I would know more about my new child. And bring your sister!” She sighed. “It would do an old heart good to see a child’s face in this palace again.”

I bowed low at the waist, and her hand came up. Patting my head lightly. “As you wish, ina Morag. I will do what I can.”

“Toksor, mo shibakin.” She called lightly after me as I made my way to the door.

Grier waited anxiously in the hallway beyond, pacing back and forth. He jumped at the sound of the door opening, and rushed over quickly as I stepped out.

“How did it go? Are you alright? What did she say?”

I shook my head, slowly closing the door behind me, trying to settle my swirling thoughts. “Well, she was right about one thing at least.”

He peered up at me, his anxiousness settling into lines at the corners of his eyes. “What’s that?”

I hid my smile as I turned to stride down the hall. “Your sleeves are ridiculous.”

...

UPDATE: Part seven HERE

#Royal Flush #goblin romance #goblin king #goblin lover #goblin husband #mlm #male x male #monster x male #terato #exophilia #slow burn #monster romance #monster lover #monster husband #monster royalty #arranged marriage #angst

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klaumiel · 3 years

Text

You are all I’ve got,Austin.//Chapter 10: Mother Karma

I felt a sharp pain before landing on the ground. My neck was bleeding, Bennie’s knife was so close to my skin that even though I managed to release myself from him, he still cut me.

At first, I thought it was just a small scratch, so my eyes landed on Austin who’s fists continuously crushed Bennie’s face. Austin’s face was terrifying full of hate and fury; he completely lost control of himself. A small part of me was scared of him in this form, was this Austin from the past? Is that who he was? He talked about this so many times, how he had to fight with himself, how horrible he felt every time he had. to hurt someone.

I called his name a few times, but he didn’t listen just kept throwing punches one after another, like in the trans. For a moment I thought he would kill Bennie, there was no way he could survive this. Everything was happening so fast, but at the same time felt like forever.

Suddenly I saw Bennie reaching for his knife, that was not far from his arm when I was about to get up, I felt a metallic taste in my mouth, and in a split of a second I started to choke, I couldn’t catch my breath. I pressed my hand on my neck, desperately trying to stop the bleeding.

Austin looked at me; his eyes were filled with tears; I tried to warn him, but I couldn’t make a sound until it was too late. Bennie thrust his knife right into Austin’s chest; I was too weak to get up, too weak to scream or even cry. I felt hopeless, watching him collapsing on the ground hurt more than anything. I heard him yelling my name, but I couldn’t do anything. I watched my boyfriend bleed, and there was nothing I could do.

I saw two guys taking Bennie, dragging him away, he yelled to finish us off, but police sirens stopped them from it, I saw them running away before everything went dark.

----

I woke up hearing familiar voices. I opened my eyes and saw my Dad’s face, smiling. Everything felt like a dream, faded.

‘Maya, sweetie’ I heard him say.

I looked around I was laying on the hospital bed, surrounded by familiar faces, Shaun, and Dad. I tried to move my head, but sharp pain followed, and then everything came back to me.

‘Where am I?’ I asked, barely making a sound, I cleared my throat and tried again, this time more successfully ‘Where am I?’ I knew exactly where I was, but I needed that confirmation. I needed to know if I’m awake or this is just a dream.

‘Sweetie, you are in the hospital. Thank god you are awake, we were losing our minds… Don’t force yourself … Shaun, go to get the doctor.’ My Dad said, holding my hand.

‘Where is Austin?’ I shifted nervously looking around. I had no idea if he was even alive. I passed away right after Bennie’s escape, and he was badly wounded’ Please tell me he is OK… Dad, where is he ?’ I panicked, my eyes filled with tears by the thought that he didn’t make it. Please don’t tell me he is dead!

‘Shh... Hey!... calm down. He is here, few rooms away.’ He said, trying to calm me down, but his face was serious, I knew that look. That wasn’t very reassuring.

‘How is he? Is he awake?’

‘I don’t know the details; your Mum spends a lot of time with him. She told me he is fine, but doctors can’t say much until he is awake. You were a bit luckier than him’ He said, stroking my cheek. I knew he isn’t telling me the whole truth.

‘How long we’ve been here?’

‘Six days’ He said ‘ but that doesn't matter, you are OK, and that’s all it matters.’

‘What about Bennie? Please tell me they found him, he couldn’t go far.’

‘No sweetie, they didn’t fund him. Police are looking for him; he seemed to vanish.’

‘What you mean, vanish!? In a puff of smoke!? He is a person, not a wizard! I saw the police arriving when he was escaping Dad!... he couldn't go far. He needed medical assistance, did they checked hospitals? What about his old house?’ I felt anger build inside me. ‘ How did he even managed to escape the prison!?’

‘One of the guards helped him for a reasonable sum of money, and few others were covering his ass…they will find him, Maya. Stop worrying now; they know what they are doing.’

I doubt that very much.

At that moment, I saw a doctor coming into the room with a nurse. Alex was a young and handsome doctor; he looked after me after my accident. Also, we had a history of short but very steamy romance back from the Uni times. After my accident, we met a few times for how they called it – Netflix and chill, but after a few dates, we called it a day as our relations were strictly physical. We decided to be friends, and while we were single friends with benefits. Last time we saw each other was a few months ago just before I met Austin.

‘And who we have here? Maya Clark decided to wake up finally. You do like to keep us waiting, huh?’ He smiled coming closer; the nurse started to remove the bandages from my neck. ‘ We did our best to stitch you up nicely, wasn’t a deep cut, but very messy. It was mostly superficial, but there was small damage to the carotid artery and jugular vein, where the substantial bleeding came from. You will be fine. You will be able to go back home in a few days.’ He said, looking at the cut, he brushed his fingers on my neck shooting me a glance, I knew he still had hots for me, unfortunately for him, from my side, there was none left ‘Is starting to heal nicely.’ He smiled, touching my neck for a little bit too long.

‘And what is Austin’s situation? Will he be alright? … but Alex, be honest, please’ I looked him in the eyes.

‘Well, that’s a bit more complicated. Austin’s wound was deep, causing severe internal damage. The knife missed the heart but didn’t spare the lungs; we managed to patch him up, but the internal bleeding did more damage than we thought. So far he is functioning well, but we need to wait for him to wake up to have a full diagnose… I am optimistic; he is very strong.’ He said, rubbing my arm reassuringly.

‘What you mean by more damage?’

‘So far, all his organs are functioning correctly, and we are monitoring it, but I will be honest with you Maya, the possibility of coma is strong. The fact that he didn’t wake up yet points to it, but we are giving him another few days to be sure’ Alex said

‘Coma!?... No, no… I need to see him now!’ I said starting to get up but suddenly felt dizzy and fell back on the bed.

‘Easy there … Not yet, you should be resting. We will have you checked today, and we will see tomorrow, I will keep you updated on him, I promise’ He said with a smile, helping me lay down.

‘Alex please, I need to see him now... do you want me to beg?’ I said. He knew that if he didn’t help me, I would go one way or another.

‘Ok…I will have a nurse to take you there in few. I need to check on him anyway so I can keep an eye on you as well’ He smiled

‘Thank you Alex’ I said

‘It will sound bad, but I didn’t want to see you here again so soon. You two were very lucky; few more minutes could’ve been too late.’ he said and walked off the room.

My mum stormed into the room, wearing sweat pants and hoody, she looked so tired, her hair was messy, no make-up. She smiled when she saw me.

‘Maya, sweetie’ she cried and wrapped her arms around me ‘ you give us a proper scare’ she said, kissing my forehead ’how are you feeling, love?’

‘I’m good Mum, my neck is a little bit sore, but Alex said it would heal well’ I smiled

‘You have no idea how we were all worried about you two. Shaun called us when we were at the airport, waiting for our flight to Paris. He said you would be fine, but Austin… ‘ she stopped and looked at me, her face was full of worry.

‘Mum?’

‘You should go to him, Alex said that he could hear everything, maybe if he will hear you he will get better.’ she said ‘I’m sure he is sick of hearing my voice’ she laughed.

‘Maya...’ Alex’s head pop through the door ‘ Ready?’ he asked.

I nodded, the nurse brought the wheelchair and helped me sit, a few moments later, we entered the room.

‘I will leave you here for a moment; I just need to check on him.’ He said. Austin’s chest was wrapped in bandages; I was so glad to see him in one piece.

‘He’s heartbeat is slow, that’s not a good sign.’ I heard Alex whispering to the nurse; he saw me staring and turned away and said something to her; she walked off the room.

‘Alex… should I be worried?’ I asked.

‘No Maya, everything is ok’ he give me a reassuring smile.

I turned to Austin, grabbed his hand gently in both of my hands ‘My mum told me that he could hear us? Is that correct?’ I asked.

He nodded, I pushed myself up from the chair and brought my face close to his, I kissed his temple still holding his hand ‘Austin… honey… I’m here’ I whispered to his ear ‘ don’t you dare to leave me, you hear me? I need you to wake up.’ I heard the cardiac monitor beeping faster. I turned my head to Alex and smiled; he smiled back.

I’ve put my hand on Austin’s chest gently rubbing his skin ‘Come back to me.’ I whispered.

‘Whatever you are doing is working’ Alex said, stopping the nurse from injecting some medication to Austin‘ Rose, I don’t think we will need that, for now.’ he smiled.

‘Can you move me to this room?’ I asked, looking at Alex.

‘If that will make you rest, I will have that arranged … you are still weak, and I know how annoyingly stubborn you are, if I don’t agree to that I will never see you in your bed resting, but I trust you know what you are doing’ he said.

‘Thank you, Alex.’

‘Before I leave, there was a guy, he came here a few times asking to visit, but we didn’t let him in. I asked your parents, but they didn’t know him, Skylar Quinn? Sounds familiar? black hair, blue eyes, looks pretty young.’

‘Yes, he is a friend’ I smiled ‘ I will text him and tell him to come over.’

‘Great, I will pass that to the reception.’

The same night my bed has been moved to Austin’s room next to him. I knew that me being close to him will help in his recovery. My parents finally went home to get some rest

I texted Skylar letting him know we are okay and that I need to talk to him urgently.

I needed Skylar’s help; I knew that police wouldn’t find Bennie and I had to do it myself, for our own sake, so we could finally have some peace.

This had to end, Bennie being around had to end. After that event something in me broke, I felt pure hate and rage every time I thought of Bennie. It wasn’t just about what happened that night; it had more to do with Austin’s mother, his face when Bennie mentioned her was so full of pain and sadness, I knew deep down that this bastard had something to do with it, and I had to know what exactly happened.

I decided to relax and buried my mind into the Outlander, checking every now and then on Austin. The room was utterly silent; I could hear only beeping of the machines. I was deep into my book when I heard a quiet gasp, I turned my head and put my book down, Austin’s eyes were openly looking right at me.

‘Baby’ he said quietly. I jumped off my bed and sat next to him, grabbing his hand. I smiled wildly; I was so happy to see him awake.

‘Careful, love.’ I said when he started to move around, trying to get up. ‘Don’t move; I will call the doctor.’ I said, pressing the button on the side of the bed and smiled, I turned my head back to him and rubbed his face with my hand.

‘I’m so happy to see you alive Maya’ he said quietly ‘I thought I’d lost you.’ His voice was soft and warm.

‘I’m stronger than you think’ I smiled, happy tears falling down my face ‘But we are both fine, and that’s what matters now.’ He moved my hand from his cheek to his lips and kissed.

‘I love you so much baby, I felt like the world shattered in a million pieces when I saw you there.’ I saw a single tear falling on his cheek.

‘I love you too. And I’m fine.’ I smiled

‘Did they catch Bennie?’ he asked.

I tried to keep my face straight, but he knew, he could read me right through.

‘Austin…let’s see what the doctor says first and then I will tell you ok? You are too weak yet; you should rest.’ I said, knowing that wasn’t convincing at all.

‘Maya… please, tell me. I need to know.’

I took a deep breath ‘He escaped…but police are looking for him, they are close’ I said trying to calm him down.

He didn’t say anything, but I saw the anger in his eyes, the same anger I saw that night.

‘Welcome back’ Alex smiled ‘Is good to see you finally with us…Maya could you give us a minute, Alex asked smiling touching my hand, the way he definitely shouldn’t I pulled it away quickly. What the hell was that about?!

I kissed Austin gently on the lips, grabbed my phone and walked out the room.

I called my parents to tell them that he woke up. Mum wanted to come over right away, but I told her that he needs to rest, after all, it was the middle of the night.

I sat in the corridor deep in my thoughts, completely lost the feeling of time. Something was bothering me; something I had in my head ever since I woke up. Austin’s face, when Bennie mentioned his mother, did he really watched her die? Is this his last memory of her? And what Bennie had to do with it? I knew she died when he was only a kid and that he didn’t remember her for a long time, but what exactly happened? All those questions in my head, I needed to know the whole story, soon. I needed to decide on what to do. Next, I couldn’t just let it go. I found Bennie before, I could find him again.

I felt tapping on my shoulder; I looked up, it was Alex. He sat next to me and smiled.

‘Everything is on order; he is like newborn, we will need to keep an eye on him for at least one more week to make sure everything is healing nicely, but I don’t see any complications. Everything is absolutely fine Maya.’

‘You have no idea how glad I am to hear that, thank you.’ I smiled and hugged him.

‘Couple of days.’ he said, getting up.

I went back to the room, Austin was sitting on the bed, smiling.

‘They unplugged me.’ he laughed and extended his arm to me ‘Come here you.’

He wrapped his arms around my waist, pulling me close; he pressed his head on my chest. I kissed the top his head burring my fingers in his hair. He held me tight, rubbing my back. He looked up and pulled my chin gently to him, I cupped his face and kissed him deeply; everything around stopped to exist; it was just us. The kiss was different from any others, stronger, more intimate, but not in a sexual way. There was something different, like a magical dose of happiness spreading through my whole body. Austin pulled away looked in my eyes.

‘I’m sorry baby’ he said.

‘What for?’ I was a bit confused.

‘I failed you … I promised I wouldn’t let anything bad happen to you, I should’ve reacted sooner… but the feeling of him having full control… the fear of losing you completely took control over me.’

‘Austin, stop it! Don’t even go there … there was nothing you could do, we are alive. That’s the most important; you didn’t fail me, you are still here, you didn’t give up.’ I said, rubbing his face.

‘I should've protected you better.’ he looked down.

I pulled his face up ‘You protected me the best you could… for god sake, you nearly died, Austin, how can you talk about failure? You would’ve failed me if you died… leaving me alone … that would’ve been a failure. Because guess what smart ass, I would die without you, do you understand?!’ I said with a serious face. How can he even think like this?

‘Bennie is going to pay for this, for everything he did. I will make him pay for this.’ He said with anger. I felt like it was time for him to tell me what I needed to know before he does anything stupid and irrational. Like what I planned to do? Such a hypocrite Maya!

We laid together on his bed wrapped in each other, enjoying the silence. I decided it is time to start “that” conversation.

‘I had so many dreams in the last few days. I didn’t know if I am alive or dead, but the dreams were so real, none of them made any sense. Did you dream about anything?’ I asked, tracing his chest gently with my finger.

‘I did, about many things. Mostly about you, all of our happy moments, about prison and my childhood, but there was one thing that kept repeating.’ He said but didn’t continue; he looked into the distance, his face was sad and full of pain.

‘What was it? I asked, looking at him.

‘My mother, she was wearing the same clothes when I last saw her, she stood in the middle of our old garden, smiling, she kept repeating my name and my pop’s name like she was calling us, then I heard a gunshot, and she was gone. It was a brief moment, but for some reason, I felt weird like happy to see her but also scared, the same way when she died the same type of fear. ’ He said, still looking at the distance. I grabbed his hand; he turned his head towards me and looked at me. ‘ What is wrong? Tell me, I can feel you want to tell me something, but you are holding back.’

‘Well, I dreamt about many things as well, but mostly Bennie, his voice that night, when he spoke about your mother. Just the pieces of the whole situation with his voice, what he said and how he said it. Also your face at that moment, honey, what happened to her? You never told me…, and I have this horrible feeling that Bennie had something to do with this.’

He once again looked away, for a moment didn’t say anything. I let him take his time; I knew he wanted to tell me. After a couple of minutes, he took a deep breath and held my hand tighter, still looking away.

‘I was eight years old when that happened. Bennie was already a teenager; he was old enough to be involved in the business with pop. He was always jealous of me because pop treated me better; after all, I was younger and less problematic. His mother was a drug addict; she died when he was no more than two. Pop decided to move on and met my mother; she was an average person, a nurse, with a golden heart and face like an angel. Pop told me that it was difficult for her to get into his lifestyle, but everything changed when I was born. She raised Bennie like his own son, at least she tried. She treated us equally no matter which one of us was at fault she punished us equally, but he hated her for some reason, and he hated me more than anything. He made my life difficult every chance he got; Pop didn’t have time to discipline him he wasn’t home very often, so we were left with mum, I know she loved him, she was a good person, she never hated anyone… She always said that nobody is perfect, but everyone can be fixed …One day she went to chop shop to talk to pop, but she saw something that she shouldn’t, few guys from the other gang tried to rob my Pop’s shop, she saw their faces but managed to escape home, not for long. A few days later we were home, waiting for Pop to come back when they showed up, I don’t remember in detail what happened but… they questioned her first and even though she said she wouldn’t say a word to anyone about what she saw, they slit her throat in front of my eyes, only because she saw them, she had no idea who they were and what they were doing there. Only years later, I’ve learned that Bennie was the one who told them who she was, he also told them that she worked with pop, which was a lie…they killed her because of him, Maya, he hated her and found the way to get rid of her, and hurt me in one go, after everything, she’s done for him …’Austin’s eyes filled with tears, which he quickly tried to wipe. He turned his had to me and looked at me ‘ He took everything from me, exactly the way he always said he would. Mum, Pop, my freedom, and he tried to take you.’ He rubbed my cheek with his thumb wiping my tears.

My heart dropped, the pain I saw in his eyes was heartbreaking.

‘I’m so sorry, baby; I can’t even begin to imagine how you felt, and how you feel right now. But know this… You have me, and I love you. That will never change.’ I said, pulling myself up and wrapping my arms around his neck.

‘You are all I’ve got, Maya. All I care about.’ He said, burying his face in my neck, I felt him crying, he tried to hide it, but I squeezed him tight and rubbed his back; he relaxed and finally let it go, the hate, the rage, the pain everything built through the years. Hear him cry broke my heart; I knew that I was the first and the last person to hear this story from him.

I realised that I never hated anyone as much I hated Bennie, I never wished anyone death before, but at this moment I wanted him to die in pain, with whole this pain that Austin felt.

We talked for hours, he told me about his mother's good memories, all the happy things he remembered.

I didn’t sleep for the rest of the night; I was busy planning my next move.

‘There you are lovebirds… I walked past this room at least three times’ I heard a familiar voice in the room, I was so deep into my thoughts that I didn’t hear anyone entering, I’ve put my book down and saw Skylar hanging his jacket on the chair.

‘Skylar!’ I got out of bed and hugged him. ’So good to see you’ I smiled.

‘How are you doing you, bastard? You gave me a proper scare; I thought for a moment that you were gone, but ambulance came just in time.’ he said, looking at Austin.

‘I’m tougher than I look. ’Austin smiled.

‘How come you were there?’ I asked.

‘I followed Bennie’s thugs; I arrived seconds after they escaped with him.’ I saw Austin’s jaw clench.

‘Let’s go to get coffee; Alex said you couldn’t stress.’ I said, rubbed Austin’s arm and whispered in his ear ‘I will be back to you in just a moment, I love you.’ I kissed him, stroking his hair gently.

‘Bring me coffee, ok?’ He smiled.

‘I will be back soon, mate, ladies first.’ Skylar laughed

I took Skylar to the cafeteria; we sat far from others. I didn’t want anyone to overhear what had to tell him. We ordered coffee, and I cut to the point.

‘I have a plan… but not a word about this to Austin ok?’ Skylar raised his brow and leaned closer. I knew he would be interested. ’Will you help me?’ I asked

‘I will’ he smiled

‘I need to find Bennie; the police is useless’ I said, he rolled his eyes laughing.

‘Yeah, no shit Sherlock … you are lucky because I know exactly where he is’ he smiled and sat back in his chair sipping his coffee.

‘How come?’ I asked, surprised.

‘I told you before; I followed one of his thugs. Right after the ambulance took you two, I went after them. My friend Seth hacked this idiot’s phone and installed a tracker; he never leaves Bennie’s side so wherever he is, Bennie is close’ He said showing me the app on his phone with Bennie’s location.

‘Can this information be wiped? Can anyone find out that this guy’s phone is tracked?’ I asked he looked at me trying to figure out what am I talking about.

‘Well yes, once Seth disables the tracker, there will be no sign of it… Maya, why do you need to know this? What the fuck are you planning?’

‘Do you trust him?’

‘Yes, we helped each other a few times; he is a great hacker. He hacks everything and does what he wants with it.’ He had no idea how valuable that information was for me.

‘Great, we will need him… I need you to keep tracking Bennie. I will be out of the hospital in two days. I need you to be ready the same evening.’ I said

‘Maya, what the fuck are you planning? And why I have a feeling this is something crazy?’

‘We are going to pay Bennie a visit … and finish it once and for all.’ I said, making sure nobody is listening.

‘Elaborate … I don’t think I understand this correctly, what you mean by the ‘’finish it’’?’ Skylar looked a bit worried.

‘Bennie won’t stop hunting us, even if he goes back to prison, he won’t stop. He has people working for him, but they are loyal because he pays them. Austin told me all about the whole gang business; everything will stop once Bennie is gone, and I want to make this happen. Also, there is something else, but I don’t want to talk about this right now.’

‘You are going to turn him in?’ He knew exactly what I mean, but he tried to make sure we are talking about the same thing.

‘No’ I said looking Skylar in the eyes, he understood ‘ How many thugs are with him?’

‘Two, he keeps a low profile …Maya this is crazy you know that right?’

‘I know, but that’s the only way. I need Austin to have some peace… Skylar I nearly lost him, and that’s not the first time. Bennie is responsible for so much pain in his life; he killed his father, was the main reason for this mother’s death, and tried to kill me. If this is not a good reason to finish him, I don’t know what is. If I don’t do it, Austin will, and I can’t allow it, that’s why I need to you stay quiet, don’t tell him anything until it is done.’ I said in a quiet voice.

‘Are you sure about this? I am not the best bodyguard, you know?’ He laughed

‘Darling, my father is a first rank Capitan, me and Shaun had self-defence classes since we were toddlers, with a good plan this will be easy. Plus Shaun will be there as well you just need to make sure that your friend Seth takes care of all the cameras around the area for at least two hours.’

‘You have it all planned out … you cheeky...’ he laughed

‘You underestimated me, Skylar Quinn.’ I laughed back

‘You know that Austin will be furious when he finds out, we are talking about real shit here, Maya. One mistake and we are all going to jail.’

‘So we need to make sure we don’t make any mistakes.’ I said confidently ‘ Skylar. I nearly died there. I have to take that chance; Bennie doesn't deserve to breathe the same air as we are. So, are you in or not?’

‘Yes, I’m in.’ he said ‘ I will sort everything out with Seth and come back to you as soon as I have the full confirmation, let’s just hope Bennie will stay in place for two days’ Skylar said looking at his phone.

We went back to the room; Skylar stayed for a bit longer, talking to Austin.

I knew that deep inside; he was excited about our little plan. He was a man of adrenaline and risk after all.

Two days later, I was released home in the morning. Skylar already confirmed that his friend Seth is waiting for our signal.

‘Is Shaun coming to pick you up?’ Austin asked, sitting on the bed, watching me gather all my stuff.

‘Yes, he is already waiting in the car.’ I said, sitting next to him. ‘I will come tomorrow, pop into Cinnaholic and grab you something, huh? What do you fancy?.’ I asked.

‘Oh you know how much I love the Caramel Apple Pie, you can get the Cookie Monster as well… shit you give me a taste now, baby. I might need to pop into the cafe to satisfy my needs.’ He laughed ‘But remember, don’t forget the fork this time.’

I rolled my eyes ‘ You mean the fork you never use?.’ I said

‘Ha. Ha… it’s for you silly, I am a trained professional I don’t need a fork. ‘He said, smiling.

‘Right, trained professional, maybe you should make videos and post it online, maybe you will get them for free if you get enough followers, and you will have some hot chicks thirsting and watching your face getting covered in icing.’ I laughed.

‘Maybe I should, you convince me with the hot chicks.’ He smiled, I pushed him when he started to laugh ‘You should see your face.’ he cracked laughing

‘Not funny Austin Russo, not funny at all.’ I said

‘Baby, you know that the only hot chick I care about is you.’ He said, pulled me to him, wrapping his arms around me. ‘What’s wrong? You seem concerned about something … talk to me.’ Shit, did he noticed? Poker face Maya, focus, he can’t suspect anything.

‘No, I’m fine, just the thought of sleeping alone tonight makes me sad.’ I said the first thing that came to my mind, hoping he will believe it.

‘Alex said they are waiting for some results and I will be good to go. Hopefully, not too long.’ He smiled and kissed me; my phone kept ringing when we kissed.

‘I should go, Shaun is getting impatient. I love you, boo.’ I said talking my bag and placed a small kiss on his lips.

‘I love you too … don’t forget the fork.’ He laughed when I walked out.

I sat in Shaun’s car; my mind was already focused on one task.

‘Do you have everything?’ I asked

‘Yes, I can’t believe you kept all this Luke’s stuff…We don’t have much time to get ready. I will ask you one last time Maya… are you hundred per cent sure you want to do this? There as so many ways this could go wrong.’ Shaun said, squeezing the steering wheel.

‘Shaun, we have everything planned, we just need to focus and stick to the plan.’ I said, trying to sound confident, but the more I thought about this, the less optimistic I was.

‘Are you sure those drugs are still good? It’s been a while.’

‘Yes, I checked. This shit never expires.’

‘Ok, I trust you sister. If this is what you want, I will support you, but I think you should warn Austin, just if anything gets tits up.’

‘Everything will be fine, I don’t want to worry him, plus he would never agree to this.’

We arrived home; I took a shower to clear my mind. I’ve put the most suitable clothes: skinny black jeans, a black shirt and camp boots. I’ve put my hair in the high ponytail. I zipped my leather jacket and looked in the mirror, taking a deep breath and correcting my leather gloves. I checked my pockets and boots for the hidden knives and opened walked to my spare room.

In the corner of the room right behind some of my paintings was a small chest of drawers, my hands were shaking, I didn’t open this drawer since Luke died, all his stuff was there, but I was after only one thing. I moved aside neatly folded shirts and grabbed the gun; we had only three bullets, enough to finish the job.

My heart pounded in my chest. I looked at the gun, remembering when Luke brought it home, together with the drugs, that he never managed to use and I never dared to get rid of, the gun was stolen, Luke stole it from some drug dealer long time ago. Police won’t link it to us, that was the plan, use it for a good cause. I stuck it in my belt behind my jacket and walked downstairs where Shaun was waiting for me.

‘Should I go now?’ he asked

‘Yes, I will call Skylar and go to get him. I will meet you there.’ I said, hugging him.

‘Good luck to all of us … I hope we will come out from this in one piece.’ He hugged my tight.

‘We will.’ I said and kissed his cheek.

I called Skylar; the stress started to kick off. I was restless walking from one side of the room to another.

‘You ready?’ I asked when he picked up.

‘Yes, waiting for you. I will let Seth know to go ahead; he is waiting for my call.’ He said

‘Great, I will be at your house in fifteen minutes… Skylar … thank you.’ I said

‘You will thank me once is over, now get your ass in here, we have a job to do.’ He said, and hang up. I looked out the window it was already dark. Its time.

I picked up the bike keys from the counter, checked my phone one last time and wrote a message to Austin, before leaving my phone on the table. I knew he would call me later at night, better for him to think I’m sleeping.

‘’I love you, see you tomorrow boo.’’

I didn’t know if using Austin’s bike is a wise idea, but that was a better way to escape quickly, than using my mini Cooper, that takes ages to build up the speed.

Fifteen minutes later, I was in front of Skylar’s door; he walked out as soon as he saw me, put on his helmet and wrapped his arms around my waist.

‘Ready?’ I asked

‘Yes, go.’ He said

The place was around forty minutes outside town, all the way there I had only one thing in my head, everything that Austin told me about Bennie, how hateful and horrible person he is, how much pain he caused him and others. Everything he told me the night before only gave me straight and motivation.

We arrived at the place; it was a field with nothing else than farm buildings. We stopped around a hundred meters from the place Bennie was staying, in the middle of a little forest. Seth made sure that all the street cameras are disabled around the area for the next hour.

Shaun was already there waiting, making sure everything is in place, Skylar went first to explore the area and check the situation inside the house, he knew what he was doing.

Five minutes later he came back ‘ Is looking good, only two guys and Bennie, they are all in the middle room… Shaun and I can go there from the back, and you go by the front door. Bennie is sitting in the middle, and the others are walking around the room, we will need to get them from two sides. Maya, you stand by the front door and wait until we get the other two, the front door seems unlocked. Also, they are full of buzz, which makes it easier.’ He said, checking his pocket for the syringe. ‘Got it.’ He smiled.

‘Ok, let’s go then…remember in the neck, and all of it.’ I said

They both nodded. I walked quietly to the front of what looked like an old farmhouse; I could hear Bennie talking. I looked through the gap in the window for a sign of Skylar or Shaun.

Bennie was sitting on the chair, with his legs on the table and bottle in his hand. His face was in the rag order, black eyes, cut lip, bruises all over, seeing him like this gave me joy, I knew that after today more would join to add some more bruises to his collection. Two other guys were walking around the back of the room, one of them was pretty big and packed; with a stupid look on his face, he didn’t look very smart. The other was average, skinny but tall, and both seemed pretty buzzed, I hoped that Skylar would go after the smaller guy, my heart dropped when I saw his face behind the gorilla-like looking guy. Fuck sake, Skylar!

On the other side, Shaun was getting ready to go after the other guy; they give me a sign and both of them at the same time walked behind them striking them on the back of the head.

‘What the fuck!’ Bennie jumped from the chair and reached for his gun.

It was time for me, I opened the door, pointing the gun towards Bennie.

‘I wouldn’t do that if I were you.’ I said, walking inside; my heart was pounding in my chest, I barely managed to keep my hands from shaking.

‘You bitch! I should’ve fucking finish you when I had a chance!’ He shouted, turning towards me a bit shaky.

‘You should've.’ I said, still pointing the gun at him; I saw Skylar injecting the drugs to the other two. Shaun grabbed Bennie from behind and pressed a knife to his throat. ‘You will pay for everything; this is my promise to you… you took everything from Austin, everything he loved the most, now I will take everything from you. You will remember my face until you kiss the ground.’ I said, approaching him. I pressed the gun to his head, looking him right in the eyes, I could feel Shaun and Skylar staring at me. I felt like pulling the trigger right at that moment, the desire to blow his head off was so strong that I didn’t know if it was the adrenaline or hate that made me feel like this, but I knew I had to control it. Stick to the fucking plan, Maya!

‘Come on, do it.’ Bennie laughed ‘ That will make you one of us. Just what Austin needs, a chick who can kill.’

I took a step back, still pointing the gun at him, my eyes not leaving his. I couldn’t read him; he showed zero remorse or fear; I could only see evil.

‘I didn’t say I’m going to kill you; I’m not a murderer like you. I only said I would make you pay for everything you’ve done. Someone else will do the dirty work for me.’ I said and pointed the gun at one of his thugs, lying on the ground unconscious, pulled the trigger, and shot him on the shoulder, I moved to the other and did the same.

‘What the fuck are you doing you stupid whore!’ Bennie shouted and tried to move, but Shaun held him tight.

‘I am sure that your gang members will be pleased to find out that their boss shot two of his mates. Mostly the ones in prison, where you will wake up tomorrow morning. I’m sure they will welcome you with open arms.’ I finally saw a flinch of fear in his eyes; he didn’t saw it coming. ‘You messed with the wrong girl, Bennie. I love your brother more than anything in this world, and I would do anything for him, you tried to destroy his life for years, but I will destroy yours with a blink of an eye.’ I looked at Skylar and nodded, he stuck the syringe into his neck, I saw Bennie’s eyes getting heavy, he mumbled something before landing on the ground.

‘Come on we have to hurry up, we don’t have much time.’ Shaun said and starter to move things around.

I placed the gun in Bennie’s hand, making sure his fingerprints are on it.

‘Are you sure they won’t remember anything?’ Skylar asked

‘I am sure they will wake up like after the heavy partying, they won’t remember a damn thing.’ I said, looking at Bennie. Skylar and Shaun were on their way out.

I stared at Bennie, the whole feeling from before still dominating my mind. I picked up a chair and smashed it on Bennie’s head with all the force I had, pieces of the broken chair flew around the room ‘Maya for god sake, what the fuck are you doing, we are done here, we need to go!’ Shaun grabbed my arm, pulling me out.

‘Motherfucker! I hope you die in pain!’ I shouted.

The whole adrenaline in me started to sink when I walked out the door.

‘Let’s get the fuck out of here; I messaged Seth to call the cops.’ Skylar said, sitting on the bike behind me.‘ I hope you have something strong to drink at home because I fucking need it.’ He said.

We drove back to my house, and spend the rest of the night in silence, drinking.

It was done, the whole plan worked. Now the most challenging part was ahead … tell Austin.

#Austin #Austin Russo #austin russo fanfic #lovelink austin #lovelink #lovelink game #lovelink fanfic #skylar #skylarquinn #bennie

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lady-olive-oil · 5 years

Text

Work Out: Chapter 5

A/N: IT’S FINALLY HERE!!! It took me a while to get this out but it’s here. I’ll be on vacation next week and so I’ll be writing just not updating per-say. If you or anyone has experienced a loss of a child or family member, and you want to talk about it my inbox is always open. It’s chapter 5. That means it’s time for another project to be started. I have 4 started already and I am going to pick which one i like best to start typing chapters for. Which will most likely be Chris Evans x Roxie in So Into You. There’s one line in here that I asked to use from my good sis @madamslayyy and it’s in here. Let me know if you’d like to be tagged in future projects.

Warnings; child death, unprotected sex (wrap it up!), language

Word Count: 5,029 [my village knows this is was gonna be long]

Lil Nasties: @maddiestundentwritergaines || @themyscxiras || @crushed-pink-petals || @honeychicana || @dc41896 || @chaneajoyyy || @jojolu || @titty-teetee || @inlovewithmakeupcomicsanimelove || @ljstraightnochaser || @mimigemrose || @fumbling-fanfics || @amelatonin || @screamingdrago || @breddiefrooks || @ellixthea || @designerwriterchic || @destinio1

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It was 3 am, dark and eerily quiet. Only the sound of my Sunter oscillating floor fan being on, and Florian’s occasionally snoring, could be heard. He took my offer on staying at my condo, instead of a hotel when he’d come to New York. Missing him from going back and forth from here to Munich, Germany, did some things to me. I never felt like this in a while about someone.

Only thing I could see in the dark from the moon, peaking through the window shades, was my big brown bear with an ‘I Wuv You’ pillow attached to it. Florian has shipped it to me from visiting his family.

He’s done something to brighten up my life, that I didn’t think needed to be brighten up. I couldn’t sleep. I could never sleep around 3 am and there’s a reason for that.

It had been a couple months or so, nearly in March now with the spring weather, and things were starting to look up a bit. That is until the gut wrenching moments with Jake happened. The bad memories came flooding back and the nightmares became worse, and worse. It came at least once or twice a month, but now they’re more frequent.

Around this same time I’d have the same recurring nightmare: me losing my baby girl at just 16 weeks. I let the dream play out this time. Normally I’d wake up in different scenes.

I was at work with a client and my phone rang to a news flash. Typical news about politics, and crazy folks. At the time time Jake and I weren’t on speaking terms due to his infidelity. I went home that day, around noon, to an infuriated Jake.

“Where the hell have you been?!” He yelled in my face,’I could smell the alcohol on his breath. This wasn’t the first time I say him this frustrated.

This time it was his job at a restaurant; he got fired, again. He always blames me for his misfortunes when I’ve been holding him up. I’ve been there for him time and time again.

“At work. Where else would a 3 ½ month pregnant lady be? I have bills to pay Jacob, and a baby to feed soon.” Apparently he didn’t like the hint of attitude in my voice, because the next thing I knew I was being thrown against a wall with force.

The wind was knocked out of me; my throat was sore from screaming and he was in my face.

“You know where you need to be at all times. You are MINE, and no one else’s.”

“We’re separated remember? Or did you forget?! Hey out of my face and out of my house now.” I pushed passed him, on my way upstairs, till I felt an even more powerful force push me down. I had landed on my stomach, the pain was too much to bear.

I froze in place, crying and praying to the heavens, hoping that my little Angelique would be alright.

“Geneva? Oh my god, please come on baby.” Jake was frantic, picking me up and taking me to the car. Making our way to the hospital I was in too much shock to love around.

Several hours later of being in the room, the doctor gave em the final verdict. It was too much damage to be done for my baby. I was stunned. Too traumatized to even move. The doctor gave us some time to ourselves, after the procedure was done.

Jake reaches out to touch my hand and I draw back from him.

“Don’t. Touch. Me.” I seethed through my teeth, not even glancing in his general direction. I could tell he grew impatient with me, by the way he yanked my head to face him.

“If you weren’t so disobedient, we’d have a baby soon. But you just had to defy me and get hurt. I thought you loved me, Geneva.”

“I do. But you make- you’re blaming this on me? You’re blaming the death of our baby on me?!” My anger surfaced as my parents walked through the door.

Jake was faster than they were, because he tried to choke me. His grip was too tight, my nails dig deep in his arms. Deep enough to draw blood. My dad was pulling him off, with my mother in tow. My vision grew dark, I couldn’t move again. All I could hear were my parents screaming for the doctors to come help. The nightmare ended.

I woke up screaming in the dark, causing Florian to wake up abruptly and be on the lookout. I felt bad for waking him up but I’m glad he did.

“Geneva? Is everything ok?” He held me close to his chest, as I cried in heavy sobs. I finally let the dream play out. I explained to him what my dream was, his rage about my ex increased ten fold.

Pulling me close to his chest even more, he mumbled something in German as she rocked me back and forth. He couldn’t fathom how any may would I ever lay his hands on a woman like that. Pregnant or not. He know his own mother would be livid if he went that route.

“I vow to this very day, he won’t come near you. I know you gave me the green light to rough him up, and I did, but I need full control Genevieve. I need to you give me full control, my love.” The sincerity in his voice was calming. It was as if he was sent from the gods to protect me. As he caressed my cheek, I kissed his hand on instinct, holding on to his hand.

Looking into his soft green eyes, the moonlight shining through the windowed curtains, making them glow with love. Upon resting my head on his, he snaked his arms around my waist.

“You made a promise to keep me safe and I believe you. So without question, I give you full control, Florian. Full, control.” Whispering against his lips, he smiled at me genuinely and held me close. He fell back against the fluffy pillows, taking me along with him. The still calmness made it easier for me to fall asleep next to him.

I think I’ll keep him a little while longer.

-The Next Day-

“Ain’t no way in hell! You can’t do that!”

“The hell I can’t. House rules cuzzo, house rules. Now draw your 4 and the color is red.”

“You ain’t right.”

Game night has been a tradition in my family for generations. To keep it alive, I had the crew come by my half finished apartment, along with the typical game night food. First game of the night was Uno. Not just any old game of Uno, it was Uno Flip. It brought out the worst in people but it was all in fun.

“Now she taught me this game last night, simply because it’s new, and even I knew she’d say ‘house rules.’ ” Florian was invited as well, why wouldn’t I invite the guy that I heard beat up my ex?

“You trained him well, sis. I like him.” Nefertiti, Winston’s girlfriend of 3 years, was always the insightful one of the group. She was always busy with her stylist job, but when she has time she comes back home and chill.

“Yeah but you still can’t do that. Cheater.” Mike mumbled under his breath, which earned him a smack upside his head by Johari.

My dog Dragon, my reddish-brown Pomsky, was asleep in his kennel in the laundry room. He loved it when Florian came over to visit, because he had someone big and strong to play with. He clearly loved the fact that I had someone too.

The vibes were perfect for a night in with no responsibilities. I was already out of the game so watching was always my forte. Joahri was looking at Florian and I, as I was snuggled into his side as he played the card game.

“So what are y’all exactly? Cause y’all for sure as hell, ain't friendship with benefits. Y’all emotions are too attached.” The question threw me off, because I started choking on my Seagram's Jamaican Me Crazy wine cooler. Johari was never one to hold back, and that’s what Mike loved about her.

Florian couldn’t help but chuckle and rub my back a little to calm me down.

“Uh well. We’ve just been hanging out lately. Enjoying each other’s company.” I looked to Florian to help.

“We like hanging out with each other. I enjoy her company and she enjoys mine. Why put a label on things?” He explained a bit further and the look on Jojo’s face was unwavering. She wasn’t falling for it at all. Heating the doorbell ring, we were saved by the bell.

“What he said, labels aren’t needed. Imma get the door.” What did I want? I wanted him but I couldn’t say it yet. Answering the door, Cynthia and John stepped in, along with Destiny and Ryan. Filling the room with more love.

Just by the look on Florian’s face and the tone of his voice from earlier, he seemed to want things to go further that what they were. I couldn’t tell.

Did I want things to go further? I’m still married to the asshole who won’t sign the papers. Maybe it is time for a new outlook on life.

-Florian’s POV-

Did I want Geneva to be mine? Did I want her to feel safe; secured, loved and wanted? Did I want her away from Jake anyway? Yes I did.

I didn’t want her to feel unwanted anymore. I can’t stand seeing her hurt anymore either. With all the stories I’ve heard about Jake, and how he’s mistreated her. I just knew I had to make things right for her.

While she was distracted with the girls in the kitchen, I had to ask the guys for some help with a very creative strategy.

“Guys, I need your help with something.” I was nervous to say the least. I’ve never felt this way about anyone before and I think it’s time I make my feelings known.

“What’s up? You need help asking Geneva to be your girl?” Mike went straight to the point.

“Oh you tryin to ask our sis to be your girl? This outta be good.” Ryan chuckled gently, glancing around the room real quick.

“Well since we’re playing games tonight, got anything in mind?” Winston asked curiously. I had never met Winston fully, just in brief passing with Mike at parties.

“How about scrabble? We each form a word for me ask, I’ll take the last word.” Letting the guys know my plan, they all were in agreement and helped set up the board.

The guys gathered the game up and set it up. I had a necklace in my hoodie pocket I was gonna give her tonight anyway. Now was the best time.

“What y’all up to?” Once I heard that angelic voice I had to move fast, giving every team their pieces.

“Just getting ready to play scrabble. We’re doing teams, so little mama come here.” The slight blush on her caused the whole group to chuckle, as I placed her on my lap on the floor.

“Team scrabble? Interesting. Alright I’ll play.”

-Geneva’s POV-

The game went on for about an hour or so. My ass was getting sore from sitting so long, so I had to get up to so I could stretch. Placing a kiss on Florian’s head, I made sure to give him some love.

“Y’all need anything while I’m up?” Making my way to the kitchen, I grabbed the empty plates and cups. Turning up the volume on the speaker a bit.

“A few beers and Seagrams. I’ll come with ya.” Johari got up to help me while the others continued to play the game.

“So what’s up with you and Florian? Foreal sis come on now. No games, no shade.” Leaning against the counter, sighed gently with a smile.

“I like him. We mesh well together and he’s great company. I do kinda wanna date him though, it’s only fair since Jake moves on.” I started biting my lip thinking of all the moments Florian and I have shared over the last few months.

“You should! It’s your time now. Plus he sounds like a keeper.” Johari was glancing back into the game from for some reason.

“Gege! Come on it’s your turn with Florian!”

“Coming! He is. We should get back to the game.” Grabbing the bottles, making our way back to the game, I snuggled back in Florian’s lap. He moved to the couch this time.

For some reason the room was more mellow than normal, and the girls were giddy. What was going on?

“Alright. Mike went; Winston went next, Ryan and John. Now it’s my turn.” Florian explained and kissed my cheek. I was too preoccupied with my phone.

My mom had texted me about graduation, and when it was. I kept forgetting to let the family know about the date and time. Florian took his turn and tapped my thigh to let me know.

“Alright guys we are all out of tiles. I’ll tally up the scores.” Grabbing the notepad and pen, I glanced at the board once or twice. I saw something and I didn’t know if I was reading it right.

The group was minding their own business, till I got their attention by reading everything out loud.

“ ‘Will you be my girlfriend?’ How did y’all- oh my god.” I immediately looked at Florian with tearful eyes and the group erupting in cheers.

“Couldn’t think of a better way to ask, with the blessing of your friends of course, and Mike. So Geneva, will you?” Florian’s soft voice pulled me in, as the sounds hushed around us.

All I could focus on was him and him alone. Holding his face in my hands; taking in his after rain scent and resting my forehead on his I knew I was home. With him I was always home.

“Yes. I’ll be your girl, Florian.” Kissing him with everything in me, he held me close to his hard body but he felt soft in my hands.

“Ahem. Y’all we got others games to play.” Mike cleared his throat, before having to pulling us apart.

“Sorry. Oh Geneva, turn around real quick.”

I did as instructed and felt cold metal hit my neck. Glancing down, I noticed my zodiac sign around my neck, shining in the light of the ceiling fan. He clamped it shut and turned me back around.

“Perfect fit. Alright now, let’s play.” Kissing me gently, Florian busted out Jenga.

-3 games and yelling matches later-

It’s an intense game of Jenga going on. It was my turn to go, and I was nervous as hell.

“Ok babe. You got this. Don’t be nervous.” A little encouragement from the new boo, made it even worse.

Pulling the block from middle, watching the tower lean for he left I got nervous and it all came tumbling down.

“In that rubble, lies our relationship.” The mocking hey joking tone of his voice, caused me to smile.

“Ok Kyle.” Patting his cheek gently, I was gifted with a gorgeous smile that he is never afraid to show. The smile that would put the stars on Egypt to shame.

His type of smile though, was like no other. His smile was so bright and happy; full of life and wonder. Like a kid in a candy store, or a kid on Christmas Day. His smile was truly contagious.

John nodded towards Florian, to grab his attention. “Hey Florian can I ask you something?”

“Sure. What’s up?” Draping his arm around my shoulder, drawing me closer.

“Seeing as though Jake fucked up everything for himself, I want you to be one of my groomsmen. I see how well you’ve been treating Geneva and I think you should walk down the aisle with her. You’ve gained a friend in me.” He paused a bit and did the typical bro handshake with him.

“You’ve gained a brother from Ryan and I. Welcome to the group man.”

The look on his face was priceless and full of pure excitement. He couldn’t have been happier to be included.

“I’d be honored John. I’d love to walk with Geneva.” I felt his lips on my forehead, making my body feel all all warm and inviting.

“Game over let’s do something else. Mortal Kombat anyone?” Breaking my concentration wasn’t ever easy, but Florian managed to do so.

“Sure. I’ll play. Not sure how to do so, but I can always learn from a great teacher.” Sending a wink in his direction, I grabbed the other controller for the PS4 and got into position so her could “teach me” how to play.

Everyone else was in their zone, minding their own business, as Florian was giving me the rundown on the game. Little did he know, my two brothers taught me how to play whenever I’d come home on the weekends from college. They prepared me for this moment.

“Ready, draga?”

“Bring it.”

Fifteen minutes into the the game, he was kicking my ass in both matches. Time to kick it into high gear. The gag is, I was just messing with him.

“I’m gonna change my character real quick. If that’s ok with you?” The gentle tone of my voice made that precious smile come back.

He shrugged. “That’s fine with me baby girl.”

Going through the character list, tuning out everything around me, I focused on my strategy. I found the right character.

“Jade. Let’s do this baby.” Pressing start on the controller, I maneuvered in my spot on the couch and started to annihilate Florian in this game.

“What the hell…” he was in shock and I couldn’t help but laugh.

“Finish him!” The tv yelled through the Sony speakers, placed around the 75” flat screen.

With a sly smirk, and a burst of energy to leap up to squat on the couch, I caught the attention of our friends and they gathered around.

Michael got too excited, stomping his feet against the hardwood. “She’s gonna beat you bro.”

“Not by a long shot.” Florian gritted through his teeth, maneuvering the buttons on the controller.

“Final kill shot…”

“Nice try babe.” With one final move, Jade had sliced Raiden’s head clean off and stood proud with her staff.

“Fatality!” The room went silent, Florian dropped his controller in defeat and was wide eyed.

“How in the hell? I just taught you 5 min ago?” He looked at me in utter disarray.

I chuckled a bit. “No you didn’t.”

“Uh were you paying attention when I taught you earlier?” He was in straight disbelief and I was living for it.

“I was. But you forgot that I have two brothers that play this on the daily baby. I faked it, unlike other things.” Sending a wink in his direction, I got up to clean the rest of the plates.

As the party died down, our friends left for the night, I was left cleaning and Florian was messing with something in the house.

Next thing I know, I hear some Michael Jackson music and the adrenaline kicked in with me. Grooving to the beat to past the time, I felt his strong hands on my hips.

“Oh so I take it you’re feeling better after getting crushed?”

“You wound me Printesa. You wound me.”

Placing a kiss on his cheek, I moved my hips along with his to the funky beat of Pretty Young Thing. Truth be told he’s the first person I’ve danced with in my house. I never got to do a lot of things with Jake because he’d always be “busy” with work and it affected our relationship a lot.

I cherish the little moments I do get with Florian. When he’s away I find something to do, but it makes it all worth it in the end, when we meet back up in my hometown. The song shifted to a real old song that brought back memories and just felt right.

“Do you remember, when we fell in love. We were so young and innocent then.” He sung in my ear so elegantly, as he swayed with me in solitude and confinement.

I couldn’t help but sing back to him, doing a little spin turn, to have my back pressed against his chest.

“Do you remember, how it all began. It’s just seemed like heaven, so why did it then.”

His strong arms that were wrapped around me just right. I felt safe and secured in his embrace, I never wanted to leave. We continued to sing the song to each other, and gravity took us both towards my bedroom.

There was a glowing light illuminating from my room. The closer I got, the more the room came in visual and it was sight to behold.

It seems that when I was cleaning, he was setting this all up for us the whole time. I felt the tears on the edge of my eyes, one shed as I held my face together. Turning towards him I sniffled.

“Florian. What is all this for?”

He held my hand and guided me towards the grand king sized bed, that took up a good portion of space in the master bedroom. This condo was perfect in every way and I still have yet to call it my own.

“Well seeing as though we just started dating a few hours ago, 6 to be exact, I thought we’d consummate our relationship. By making love to my lady love.” We both looked into the mirror I had installed and just took in each other’s reflections.

He truly listened to me. It was rare to find a good man that listened. I was going to enjoy this by any means necessary. Changing the playlist to smooth jams, I faced him fully.

“You do listen to me. I’m glad you do.” I wrapped my arms around his neck.

“I wouldn’t have it any other way.” He wrapped his arms around my waist and pulled me closer.

The music pulled us and guided us like a magnet. I took his black v-neck shirt off first, tracing the hard muscles with my nails with a featherlight touch. Our foreheads were touching, his hands were under the grey racerback I was wearing. My skin was on fire, but I loved every second of it.

Our lips were ghosting one another’s, a teasing game that only could be won by one. He gave in and smashed his lips against mine. Our lips moving in synchronization to the rhythm of our heartbeats, drawing me closer to him.

He broke the kiss for a split second, analyzing the room once again.

“Don’t need us both being poked with electric candles, now do we?” He set all the plastic candles on my dresser, then came back to me.

“No we don’t. But we do need less clothes.” Trying to be sexy, I slipped my tank top off. Only remaining clothing were my shorts; white lace bra and matching undies to hide my heated desire for the man standing in front of me.

I took it upon myself to slide off his basketball shorts, eyeing the man in front of me in all his naked glory.

“No boxers or briefs huh? You were thinking of getting lucky today weren’t you?” Kissing his chest softly, my hands gripped onto his ass tightly, gaining a moan from him.

In a blink of an eye, he yanks the rest of my clothes off, throws them somewhere in the room and made me jump up. Wrapping my legs around his waist, to continue the kiss, he laid us both on the bed.

“You’re the first woman I’ve ever gotten intimate with on this level. Face to face, pure and raw intensity. Just close.” He whispered in my ear hotly, as his fingers dragged along my curves. Making the room seem hotter than it already was.

“So far, you’re doing everything right.” In one hand I held the back of his neck while the other, yanked him by his chain around his neck, back to down to kiss me. His tongue fought for dominance with my own, a shaky moan erupted through my body once again.

The movement of his hips against mine were orgasmic and sensual. His weight on top of me, felt so delicious. I trusted him enough to not use a condom this time versus all the other times. Who knew that kissing could get you off.

“Geneva, do we-”

“No. I trust you. Remember what I told you? I trust you.” Nodding in more confirmation, I brushed my hips another time to get him inside me. I knew for a fact that I was not about to go to work in the morning and I didn’t care.

Smiling up at him, deep into his green-hazel speckled eyes, I saw a man that shown me so much love these past few months. A man who really cares for me deeply; physically, mentally and spiritually.

“Then I guess we can.” He captures my lips with his once again, lacing our fingers together above my head in an exultant feeling all over. My body overheated; I felt him rut against me, as I squeezed his fingers tight.

He broke the kiss to let me know to fully relax. I did so, and felt my velvet walls being stretched deliciously by by his hardened dick. I moaned sharply, arching my back off the black sheets, and dragged my nails up and down his back. We came once again just off of us humping each other.

My legs went back around his hips and constricted him like a python, egging him on even more to go faster. Letting out mini yells of his name along with multiple phrases in Romanian and German. His hands gripped my thighs tight.

“Lil Mama, come here.” He sat back, pulling out of me. I felt an emptiness, craving for him to be back inside me. He pulled me on to his lap, I sunk back down on instinct. I could tell he was chasing his 3 orgasm with me, so this next one was about to be ruthless.

The temperature increased; his hands hot and heavy on my hips, helping me rotate up and down. Forward and back, this time going with the rhythm of the music. I held the back of his head, gripping for dear life, resting my head on his as I went faster.

“Ah ah- fucking shit! Right there. Oh come on daddy.” I whined digging my nails deeper into his shoulder, feeling my 3rd orgasm coming faster. He looked me dead in my eyes and spoke with such dominance.

“Don’t call me daddy unless you trying to make me one.” Once he growled that against my lips, I purred back at him and caught his tongue with my lips, sucking gently. His eyes went big at how frisky the move was. I pushed him on his back, squeezing his dick inside me again and closing my eyes tight at the feeling of him. He leaned his head back and closed his eyes tight at the feeling.

I whispered against his lips, “If you play your cards right, maybe we can talk about kids. But I need a ring first.

“Only way I’d see it happening, baby girl.” One final kiss session, feeling the vibes again with one of my songs playing on my phone. Rolling my hips sinfully, leaning my head back and gripping my hair I gasped sharply.

“I’m so close…”

“I am too. Let go with me baby girl.” He leaned up, kissing my chest, sucking one of my nipples in his mouth and then moved his thumb against my clit. My orgasm erupted before his own.

I moved quick and fast to slide off him and take him in my mouth. He had to get off by the end of the night or I wouldn’t feel good about it. Tasting myself on his dick, made me wet all over again.

“Shit baby- goddamn.” He held the back of my head, I relaxed my jaw and used my tongue to my leverage. I had him whimpering like a little kid, and I loved it. Using one of my hands to get the rest of him in my mouth, I kissed his thighs a bit before going back at it.

He smacked my ass one good time, which made me moan around his throbbing dick. He released down my throat, I swallowed every drop and crawled back up his sweaty body. Kissing him gently, rubbing my nose with his.

“You smacked my ass like you own it.”

“I kinda do, draga. I kinda do.” He smirked at my gasp, as I hit him playfully.

Stretching a bit, I sat up and smiled at him.

“I trust you remember that ok?” I reminded him. He nodded sweetly and pulled me back down onto his chest. Which was heaving up and down a bit.

“Shower or sleep? Or both?” I traced shapes on his chest gently, hiking my leg over his.

“Both. I’ll even switch the sheets out. Plus I owe you in the morning.” Picking me up bridal style towards my master bathroom, I let out a sweet giggle.

“Definitely gonna need that cause I’m not into work tomorrow.” Loving the feel of the bow water on my body and my hair, I helped him wash his hair and he did mine.

After what seemed like hours, we were both dressed: the sheets were changed and the room was cooler. Falling asleep to his voice made it easier and the nightmares were gone.

“I could stay like this forever with you.” Is what I could’ve sworn I heard him say, but I was too deep into my sleep to pay attention. I couldn’t see myself with anyone else.

#florian munteanu fanfic #florian munteanu #florian x geneva #genevieve shaw #geneva shaw #floneva #sevyn streeter #work out chapter 5

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novamm66 · 5 years

Text

Red Sky in the Morning - Chapter 16 - And Up She Rises

It has been an exciting summer for me, I started my second business selling my Celtic artwork and jewelry that I make. It did kind of eat up a lot of my time. I have been working away at writing but it is just now that things are levelling out and I am having a grand time getting back into it.

I have worked on this chapter in particular for a while. It's a big one, we are adding some new characters and I can't wait for you to meet them.

I have updated the tags since there is mention of a few tough topics. Pregnancy loss is something I am intimately familiar with. I know that it can be a tough one to talk about, it was for me for a long time.

The tile is the second half of the song title Weigh Heigh and Up She Rises. My current favourite version is The Drunken Whaler Copilot Strategic Sound + Music. It's so dark and creepy I love it.

There are mention of a few tough topics. Pregnancy loss is something I am intimately familiar with. I know that it can be a tough one to talk about, it was for me for a long time. But I don’t want anyone to be surprised.

---

Cullen frowned at the report from Crestwood he was reading. Just like everywhere else the Herald went, nothing had gone to plan. Although they had reported success dealing with everything, it just added to the knot of worry in his chest. His thoughts were interrupted by footsteps and voices in the hall.

“Scout Harding informed us of the events after the conclave when she found us. The news of Haven, and eventually Skyhold, led us here.” The voice of an unknown woman answered a question Cullen hadn’t heard. “In fact, every tavern and campfire between here and Denerim is talking about the Inquisition.”

Three people entered the room with Leliana, all still dressed for travel. The moment the woman stepped into view Cullen put the pieces together. Evelyn Trevelyan’s hair had more brown than red and her eyes were hazel, but there was no mistaking the resemblance to her half-sister. She was accompanied by two men: one a large, dark-haired human, the other elven, the sunburst brand on his forehead standing out against his pale skin.

“Allow me to introduce Lady Josephine Montilyet and Commander Cullen Rutherford. This is Kiaya’s sister, Evelyn; Evelyn’s husband, Danin Barnath; and Ja’rell Lavellan,” Leliana said. “They have come to join Kiaya and the Inquisition.” Evelyn smiled, her voice formal when she spoke. “We are eager to help in any way we can.” Both of her companions silently nodded.

“We are delighted to have you join us,” Josephine said smoothly.

“It is good that you are up to date on past events,” Leliana circled back to the conversation they were having when they had entered. “What isn’t publicly known yet is that we have asked Kiaya to become the Inquisitor and to lead the Inquisition.”

Danin snorted a laugh. “Easy money she said no.” His Starkhaven accent was thick, and his tone was kind rather than insulting, but Cullen bristled anyway.

“Do you think we are in error then?” Cullen spoke sharper then he intended.

“Begging your pardon, Commander,” Danin said. “I believe Kiaya is a good choice. I just don’t think she would see it that way.”

“We are hoping you can help us change her mind. She has proven herself the best, and possibly only, choice if we are going to win this war,” said Leliana.

“My sister is one of the smartest people I know and a good person, mostly, but she is her own worst enemy in many ways.” Evelyn sighed.

“I will talk to her.” The sound of Ja’rell’s voice caught everyone by surprise. In Cullen’s experience, tranquil never spoke unless addressed directly.

After a few moments, Josephine cleared her throat. “I am sure she will return once she knows you are here. “

“May I write to her?” Evelyn asked.

Josephine smiled. “Of course. Please, come with me. Then we will get you set up in quarters so you can rest.” She led the party out of the room, her voice fading until it was cut off by the closing of the door.

“That was unexpected.” Cullen looked at Leliana, who was staring at the map.

“Which part?”

“All of it.” Cullen’s annoyance leaking out in his reply. “Why didn’t you tell Josephine and I that they were coming?”

Leliana was quiet for a long time. Cullen waited, watching her. Her brow was furrowed and her lips were pinched into a thin line.

“Kiaya came to me the morning before she closed the Breach. I fully intended to tell you at the next meeting, and I believe Kiaya did as well. But with her success and then the attack…”

Leliana rubbed her eyes. “By the time things settled, we were lost in the mountains with no way to contact any of our agents in the field, and we had more pressing concerns. After that, since Kiaya didn’t mention it, I waited until I heard something.”She sighed, straightening her back and meeting Cullen’s eyes, her expression settling into the calm neutrality that she was known for.

Cullen exhaled the breath he was holding and nodded. “It’s fortunate they arrived now, then, just when we need them.”

“Yes, it is.” Leliana studied him for a moment, then smiled. “Although I believe that you could have persuaded her if needed.”

Cullen’s brow furrowed with confusion.

Leliana rolled her eyes at him. “I have seen the way you look at her, and she at you. If she hadn’t left Skyhold so abruptly I am fairly certain that, had you asked her again, we would have our Inquisitor.”

“That’s not…” Cullen stammered, “I don’t think so.”

She laughed, shaking her head. “Of course not. You are both being silly. You never know when your time runs out.” Leliana’s face grew sad, then hardened, her neutral mask slipping back into place. She stared at him for a moment before leaving the room without saying more.

Cullen stayed, lost in thought, pretending to work on reports.

Leliana was right about one thing: he needed to stop wasting time.

---

“If we don’t stop soon the sores on my arse are going to band together and attack you,” Sera groused.

“Again? We can see Skyhold already. We are not stopping until we are there.” Kiaya shot an apologetic look over her shoulder.

“The first-round tonight is on me, OK?”

Sera’s eyes narrowed. “First two.”

“Deal,” Kiaya laughed. She was planning on buying more than that. Her friends deserved it. The pace that Kiaya had set had been gruelling on them all. Even now the slower trot the horses needed was grating on her impatience. She had been handed Evelyn’s letter the moment they had arrived back at the keep. Once it was read and Kiaya had explained the situation to her companions, they had left as soon as they were able. They had travelled quickly, stopping only when the horses needed rest. Now that she could see the fortress, Kiaya was trying very hard not to push the pace a bit more. Kiaya knew Evelyn was safe, she just needed to know it.

Her horse seemed to sense hay and rest was ahead, shifting into a chanter all on his own. Kiaya gave him his head and she laughed at the string of curses and threats from Sera behind her.

The bay didn’t slow down as they rode through the gate and straight to the stables. Kiaya trusted Rollin not to trample anyone; he was too well trained for that, and it was thrilling to watch people scurry out of the way. It wasn’t a good thought, but it made her laugh anyway.

Rollin slowed and stopped in the stable yard, nose pointing towards the rub down and a bucket of mash waiting for him. Kiaya laughed at her horse. “I know, I owe you a round too.” She quickly dropped to the ground and removed her saddlebags. There was already a groom waiting and Kiaya gave Rollin a pat as he was led away.

Kiaya set her bags down at her feet to wait and stretch while her friends caught up. She rolled her neck and stretched her back while her eyes roamed around Skyhold, noting the changes. They hadn’t been gone long, but the repair crews had been hard at work. The courtyards had been cleared, and the towers and walls had been shored up. The other repairs were well underway. Next, Kiaya’s eyes searched the crowd of faces in the courtyard and lining the walls of the upper yard. Her chest tightened with all those eyes on her. As lonely as being invisible had been, Kiaya missed the days when panic wasn’t a constant companion. When she didn’t find the face she was looking for it was a relief to look at the stone walls again.

“If it isn’t Captain Kiaya, the plague of the Waking Sea.”

At the sound of the familiar voice, Kiaya whirled around, and there stood Danin and Ja’rell. “That’s a little harsh. I was barely an irritant.” Kiaya laughed as she leapt to hug her brother-in-law. Danin wrapped his arms around her and squeezed her tight. Kiaya felt her feet leave the ground and her spine pop. He was the king of bear hugs,and they always felt like home. Not her home, but the closest thing she had. She was slightly breathless when he set her down.

“Thank fuck you found us,” she said. She glanced past Danin to Ja’rell then back again. “Where is Evie?”

“We didn’t expect you back until tomorrow, Lass. So when a call came from the camp for the need of a midwife, she went.” “Of course she did.” Kiaya face sobered as she thought of the news in Evelyn’s letter. “Danin, I am so sorry.” Kiaya could see the sadness in his eyes. Losing the baby had been hard on them both. Danin nodded in answer and Kiaya let the subject drop. There would be time for private conversation later. Her eyes turned to Ja’rell, who was standing a few paces away.

She felt the familiar stabs of anger and guilt mixed with the joy and comfort that seeing her old friend brought. The sight of the brand on his forehead was the opening of an old wound in Kiaya’s heart every time she saw it. Danin turned and gave Kiaya a little shove in Ja’rell’s direction, her feet barely managing to catch up as she closed the distance between them.

Kiaya didn’t reach to hug him, as much as she wanted to.

“You’re here?” It was more a question than a statement but Kiaya continued without an answer, “I’m glad you are and that you’re safe.”

“You need help,” Ja’rell replied. The sound of his voice caused Kiaya to tremble. At one point in her life, Ja’rell’s was the only voice she had known. Her years of isolation in the Circle had ended when Ja’rell had walked into her life. The sound was so familiar and comforting, but the colour that he had painted his life with was gone. It would never stop jarring her to her bones.

Kiaya snorted. “Understatement of the year.”

Ja’rell calm expression didn’t change. “You have already decided to accept,” he stated.

Kiaya’s eyes widened, “ How can you possibly know that?”

“It is a logical conclusion. You have done more good for others than bad. It is who you are.”

Kiaya gaped at him, but before she could say anything the clatter of hooves coming through the gate signalled the arrival of more horses. Both of them turned to watch a wagon, flanked by Varric, Sera and Bull on their horses, rattle into view. Evelyn was bouncing in the seat next to the driver. The moment she saw Kiaya, she started waving.

“I-“ Kiaya turned back to find Ja’rell was already leaving, heading into the main keep. Pain welled in her chest as she watched him stride away. “-miss you.” She exhaled softly before turning to jog across the courtyard.

“Kiaya!” Evelyn was on her feet and over the wheel before the wagon stopped moving, running to meet her. The two women collided with enough force that they almost tumbled to the ground but they managed to steady themselves without letting go of the other. Both of them started speaking at the same time.

“I am so sorry-“

“How will you ever forgive-“

Evelyn laughed pulling back just enough to look Kiaya in the eye. “What do you have to be sorry for?”

“For dragging you into this.” Kiaya smiled as she examined her sister’s face. Outwardly, Evelyn looked well, but Kiaya could see the shadows under her eyes. “And because you lost the baby.”

Sadness overwhelmed Evelyn’s face for a moment before fading away again. Evelyn shook her head, “I’m… well, I’m not ok, but I will be. We have plenty of time to talk about that later. We have larger issues to worry about right now.”

Kiaya opened her mouth but Evelyn cut her off, her expression earnest. “Listen to me, I am so sorry that I have done this to you again.”

“What?” Kiaya grief for Evelyn’s lost baby melted into confusion.

“You were at the Conclave because of me, just the same as the circle. But this time I am not going to abandon you.” Tears had started leaking from Evelyn’s eyes and she hugged Kiaya tighter, burying her face into Kiaya’s armoured chest just as she had done when she was ten.

“Evelyn, you’re no more to blame for this then you were for taking me to the circle. You saved my life. Nowhere else had the level of healing that I needed. Everything that happened after that was not your fault. We were both still children.”

Evelyn’s grip tightened.

“I am thankful every day that I was at the Conclave and not you. You could have died with Malcolm and Lydia. I am just sorry I got you involved here, and if I thought you would be safer anywhere else I would send you there.” Kiaya paused to take a breath. “But I need your help. I don’t know what I am doing.”

Evelyn laughed shakily as she pulled back, her eyes now puffy. “I’m glad. We have a plan.”

Kiaya hugged her tighter before leading the way back to the keep, “Why am I not surprised?”

---

“So that’s the plan? Evelyn and I both become Inquisitor?” Kiaya asked, keeping her voice as neutral as possible.

“That’s a bit simplistic, but essentially, yes,” Leliana smiled. Kaiya glanced around the room, everyone seemed to be in agreement, although Cullen looked more concerned than anything.

“Using and controlling the mark is something we can’t help you with,” Leliana continued, “But we can shoulder much of the rest. The two of you are close enough in appearance that you can both be Inquisitor Trevelyan as the need arises. That way you can continue to close the rifts and work in the field while we handle the politics here.”

Kiaya couldn’t look directly at anyone, so her eyes stayed glued to her marker on the map. “But you still want me to be the deciding voice. You want me to decide the fate of others.”

“Kiaya,” it was Evelyn who answered. “We are here to advise and help you but, like it or not, you are the leader. I know you can do this. You were a ship’s captain, after all. It’s pretty much the same thing.”

Kiaya snorted and looked up to meet her sister’s eyes. Evelyn looked hesitant, but there was a smile hovering under the surface.

“This is a much bigger ship.” Kiaya sighed and squared her shoulders, “Alright, I agree with your plan. What happens next?”

“We have four months before the ball at the Winter Place,” Josephine answered. Her enthusiasm was evident. “So our focus should be on that. Once we have presented our Inquisitor to the world, Leliana and I will start preparing you and Evelyn for Halamshiral. Also, you should continue your combat training as well. In two weeks, you and your team should depart and work your way through Orlais and increase our reputation there as much as possible. We,” Josie indicated the advisers and Evelyn, “Will meet you there, no less than three weeks out, for the final preparation for the ball. That should give Hawke and Stroud’s team enough time to reach the Western Approach and report back on the Warden activity.”

Holy Crap.

“And here I thought we would be busy.” Kiaya smiled at everyone around the table, locking down her panic until there was time and privacy to freak out. “Shall we get down to business then?”

—-

Now I am all caught up here on Tumblr! I am hoping to have the next chapter ready soon but I have adopted a no-pressure attitude for myself and I am writing for the joy of it.

You can follow me on AO3 here.

Reblogs, likes and comments are always welcome.

#Red Sky #dragon age fanfic #Kiaya Trevelyan #Kiaya&Cullen

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serahsanguine · 5 years

Text

Whats Left Unsaid, Says It All

What’s Left Unsaid, Says it all part 8/?

Rating; NC-17, NSFW

This Story can be found at Ao3

part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4, part5, part 6, Part 7,

Tagging; @peacenik0 @today-in-fic

p.s. if you would like updates and be tagged please let me know

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

Chapter 8; The Burning Question.

"Hey, what’s up G-Man?" Frohike said while cooking up some Huevos Rancheros for himself, Langley and Byers as an afternoon snack. The cast iron skillet was sizzling with oil and he carefully placed six eggs in, then added peppers, tomatoes and beans.

"I need you to hack some medical records for me, ASAP" Mulder growled down the line, staring at Scully and her children.

"Yeah, no problem, whose medical records?"

"Scully’s" Mulder sighed.

"Whoa, whoa... why?" Frohike questioned, sprinkle some chilli powder on the omelette.

"It doesn't matter why. Can you do it or not, Frohike?"

"Yes, of course. We’ll get on it now."

Mulder hung the phone up and shoved it in his pocket; he was so angry... at himself, at Scully, at Melissa, at everyone. Dammit, how could he have been so stupid? So fucking stupid. He fucking loved a woman that had quite obviously cheated on him, ran away for him and left her job as his FBI partner. He felt like such a damn fool. He started walking quickly back to his car, just around the corner from the park, as soon as Scully was nowhere in sight.

Dark grey clouds started floating over the beautiful blue May sky, little raindrops falling from above but he was so lost in his mind that he didn’t realise; thoughts of Scully but more importantly he could not get passed her children... a little boy, all pale complexion with beautiful blue eyes and fiery red hair and a slightly more plump little girl with long brown chestnut hair and greenish-blue eyes. She looked so much like Samantha but this was not possible, neither child was his. Maybe when the little one called out dad she was mistaken, perhaps her real father looked like him.

He hadn’t been able to get the dream of him, Scully and their little family out of his head, even though he hadn’t wanted a family - well, not until this dream played on a loop in his subconscious, playing out numerous different happy family scenarios.

Mulder dreamt of their first Christmas together with lots of presents under the tree and him dressing up as santa, making his girls laugh. God, he loved to make Scully laugh. He dreamt of his daughter's first steps, first words. Suddenly, tears were streaming down his face and mixing with the rainwater as he reached his car, unlocked it and put the key in the ignition.

He realised he needed a stiff drink of alcohol to forget this day, forget what he saw, forget his life just for a little while, so he drove to the nearest D.C. bar.

The Next day

Mulder woke up face down on his leather sofa, still in the clothes he was wearing from the day before with empty liquor bottles everywhere and dirty clothes as far as the eye can see.

The sun was shining full force through the window, he looked up and groaned - his head hurt and his throat was sore. He had drunk his body weight three times over before getting home and then drinking some more just to make sure he got the job done.

He rolled over, swinging his legs off the sofa and planting his feet firmly on the floor and just sat there contemplating what to do next for a minute, he needed a plan but he couldn’t think straight with this epic hangover pulsing through his body.

He needed some coffee, painkillers and a hot shower immediately.

Mulder looked down at his clothes, absolutely disgusted, that he had slept in the clothes from the day before. They now stuck to his body, clinging to him from the sweat that had built up during the night, getting up he swayed on his legs ever so slightly but quickly regained his balance before walking over and turning on the coffee machine, grabbing two Advil out of the cupboard along with a glass of water. He swallowed the pills, moaning because his throat felt like sandpaper.

What the fuck had he got up to last night? It was all a bit of a blur at the moment.

He walked through to the bathroom, discarding his clothes along the way, before getting into the shower and turning it on to wash away the side effects of the night before.

One hour later: Mulder had put on some clean-ish clothes and was now sitting at his desk contemplating what to do, while drinking coffee and waiting for the information to come back from the Lone Gunmen.

Staring into his PC monitor, he tried to put things in order of his brain, when suddenly it hit him his bright idea like an epiphany of sorts, grabbing his mobile, keys and jacket before heading out the door and drove to Maggie's house, parking his normal spot before ringing Melissa Scully.

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

Melissa was playing peek a boo with the twins watching them laugh and smile while Scully sat on her mom's sofa drinking a small cup of tea when suddenly Melissa's phone rang - unknown number appearing on the screen.

"Hello?"

"Melissa. It’s Mulder, can you talk?"

Scully sat there looking at her sister mouthing ‘Who is it?'. Melissa looked back at her sister with a startling impression on her face and mouthed back ‘Mul-der ’. Scully gave her a look that said take it outside before the twins made some noise.

"Of course, give me a minute? I just need to go outside where it's... quiet"

"Okay" Mulder mumbled, trying to hold back his emotions.

Melissa wandered outside, closing the front door behind herself, and sat down on the bench in her mom’s garden just underneath the front window. And without knowing it she was now in the direct eye line of Mulder, who was sitting in his car across the street.

"How are you, Mulder?" Melissa asked, her patented kindness on show.

"I’m fine" Missy could tell that Mulder was lying but didn't push the subject "I was wondering if we could meet up somewhere when your back in D.C." he asked.

"I’m not sure that’s such a good idea, after the last encounter we had. You scared me, Mulder"

"I know, and you’re probably right... but I want to apologize for my behaviour" and ask about those children I saw your sister with at the park, he wanted to add but stopped himself.

"OK, but it has to be somewhere public..."

"That's fine by me. How about you meet me at 'The Sheppard' and you decide the date and time" Mulder interrupted, not wanting to give up on a meeting that could give him the answers to all of the questions in his mind right now.

"The Sheppard works. Say this Thursday... at 7 o'clock?" Melissa offered.

"OK, see you then" Mulder agreed.

Both hung up at the exact same time. Mulder watched Missy as Scully opened the front door with the little girl on her hip and stepped backwards to her sister could come back into the house. Now that the time and date was set; the first part of his plan was achieved. Just two more days until he finally got some answers. Mulder drove off in the direction of the Hoover building.

Meanwhile, the moment Missy stepped through the door she took Elissa from Scully and wrapped herself in her niece' embrace before letting out a small sigh before answering any and all questions by her mother and sister that were likely to be headed her way any minute now.

The Sheppard 7 pm Thursday

Mulder sat at the bar, nursing a beer he had bought twenty minutes ago, he wanted to be sober when this conversation happened. But his mind was screaming for him to be drunk, he was doing the right thing he definitely needed to be calm and collected, needed to know everything about those children he saw with Scully... needed to know if they were his.

It had been all he could think about for the past two days. Work, as usual, was unproductive and Skinner even sent him home, having become tired of the brooding and angry vibes coming off of him in waves.

A few minutes later he saw a bounce of red hair come through the door, looking up what he saw unnerved him. It wasn't Melissa like he was expecting it to be. No, who he saw was more petite than her. It was Scully (his Scully) with her glowing crimson hair and deep blue eyes that had walked into the bar.

Mulder was shocked, to say the least, and it certainly was an unexpected turn of events but it gave him hope that he would actually get the answers he was looking for... straight from the source.

Scully walked over to him wearing casual dark jeans and a white blouse with a thin light jacket over the top. She looked amazing even though he had seen her just a few days ago. She would always take his breath away, he thought.

She sat down next to him quickly ordering a diet coke and looked up at him, shyly.

"Hey, Mulder"

"Scully"

‘I know you weren't expecting me, but I hope you don't mind that I've come in Missy's place"

Well, yes actually I do mind! This would've been a damn sight easier if it was Melissa, Mulder thought but what he actually said was "No, I don't mind. It's nice to see you, you look good. You've changed"

"Yes. A lot has changed since..." Scully trailed off not finishing the sentence as she could not bring herself to say the words - I left without telling you why. No, I ran away like a scared child... taking your kids with me.

"Care to tell me what has changed in your life?" God, he sounds like a asshole right now but he wanted her to say it, to admit to something. When did speaking to her become so damn hard?

"Nothing... well, nothing important anyway" a brief awkward silence fell upon them, until Mulder realised she wasn't going to say anything so he just had to man up and ask and see where it went from there even if it terrified him.

"So, you've been in D.C. for a couple of days then?" Mulder thought he sounded smooth and casual but he could feel his heart pounding in his chest.

"I have..." How could he know? What if he saw me with the twins? What if.. oh god. I don't think I can do this. What if he asks about them? "Why?" Scully wondered out loud.

"Well," How am I going to bring this up? Just blurt it out or dance around the fact? Then Scully looked at him with her eyebrow raised as if to continue the sentence "I saw you. Umm, the other day... at the park... with two small children"

Before Mulder could even get out the next part of his question Scully interrupted him.

"They aren't mine, Mulder. They're Melissa's kids... she came back from California with them. Completely freaked Mom out, it was actually kind of funny"

"Don't lie to me! Scully, we both know you're better than that... or at least you used to be" Mulder spat, a hint of aggression in his voice now. He hated being lied to especially by Scully and especially after everything she had done to him, he just wanted the truth. That's all.

"I..."

"I heard them. I saw them, Scully. They're yours, I know they are. So, just tell me the truth"

"Yes," She took a deep breath in, willing herself to stay calm and be honest with him "They are mine"

Finally, the truth! It's all he has wanted. His whole life, ever since losing Samantha. It was all about finding the truth. He looked down at his beer on the bar top. He needed to push her just a little further, that all important burning question on his lips. "Are they mine?"

"No"

Mulder looked at her and knew without a doubt that she was lying, and she knew that he knew that too. Plus, she was way to quick and resolute with her answer... too quick on the mark as they say, to indifferent about the whole situation.

"Don't fucking lie to me, Dana! The little girl... she is the spitting image of my sister, Samantha. I want to see them, I want to get to know them. They deserve to know their father, don't you think?" Mulder knew that he was raising his voice but he didn't care right now. Scully was lying straight to his face, and refusing to admit what they both know - that he is their father.

"No! Mulder, stop!" Scully stood up, paid for her drink and walked away. Mulder quickly thumbed through his wallet putting a 20 dollar bill on the bar and running after her.

"Scully, they're my children too. You can't deny me the chance to see my own flesh and blood!"

Scully didn't look at him as she got up and walked towards the door. She didn't turn around when he called her name in the most heartbreaking anguish she had ever heard. So, he made him turn around, by grabbing her wrist and spinning her around so he could see her face.

"Dammit, Scully! I want to know my children... I have a right to see them" Mulder was still shouting. He was so damn angry at her for not letting him see his own children! He wanted to see them, wanted to get to know... wanted them to have a different relationship with him that he had with his own parents.

"No, now let me go!"

"Scully, please! I want to see them, just let me see them... once!"

"No, Mulder. Let go of me... NOW!" Scully demanded, trying to yank her wrist free and leaving the bar... to get away from Mulder.

"Fuck you, Scully!" Mulder screamed back before bending down and kissing her. It came out of nowhere, just an impulse... no thinking required. Just do!

As soon as his lips touched hers it was like magic and fireworks exploding between them.

She opened his mouth more with her own and their tongues touched for the first time in more than a year. She had missed him as much as he had missed her but she was so lost and everything was a mess. What was she doing? No, she shouldn't be doing this! Not now!

Scully pulled back, raising her hand to his face - the impact of the hit nearly knocked him off his feet. And the sound it made, you could hear it bouncing off of the walls of the dark alley.

She turned around and quickly flagged down a taxi.

"Scully, I am sorry. I really am!" Mulder tried to apologise, for what he had no idea but it felt like the correct response.

She didn't acknowledge him, didn't even respond to him as she slammed the door of the taxi and left him there on the sidewalk, only then did she let the tears fall.

For all of the consequences of their actions... and for what the future holds now.

#mulder and scully #WLUSIA #the x files #the x files fanfic #fanfic #fan fiction #msr #x files

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eerythingisshaka · 5 years

Note

Hey girl. I dunno if you’re raking requests or not but if you are could I request another Tchalla/Nakia fic where it’s post-snap and the snap is reversed so everyone comes back, and Tchalla and Nakia have this emotional reunion but the real reunion happens when they’re finally alone for the whole night? Thanks ma!

I do requests! I just don’t advertise it, but I’ll consider any polite asks lol. But here is a quick something for you. The snap is still a fresh sore spot for me, so I hope you don’t mind I don’t get dirty in this one, but the love is there!

A King named Snapback

“SHIT!” Okoye yells as she falls to on the sand pit in the lab. M’Baku helps her up but she bats him away.

“I am fine. But I lost sight of the fight. Something severely damaged the remote aircraft.” Okoye goes over to a window and looks outside.

“Maybe you should’ve gone with them up there in the atmosphere.” M’Baku offers, joining her at the window.

“Tsk! Shooting myself up into space in a manned aircraft that’s manufactured in a style we haven’t operated since the 90s? Let them figure that one out, I am not turning myself into an asteroid for their cause. They brought their problems here and didn’t even offer to replant the grass!” Okoye rants.

M’Baku grips his staff in front of him purposefully. “Your words sound familiar…like the ones of an estranged love…”

Okoye waves him off, looking further into the sky. “If anyone should have been turned to dust, it should have been him!”

Footsteps approach behind them belonging to Nakia.

“Okoye, what happened? Is the fight over yet?”

“Not yet. The purple one was being bombarded until that gauntlet activated again and ruined our ship. It is nearly destroyed, I just hope they can do it.”

Nakia crosses her arms, anxiously pacing the floor. “Do you know if we can get another ship to them in time? Maybe several! Shuri’s notes should be around somewhere about it…”

M’Baku speaks up. “We would not have time to do that, not for as long as Okoye was fighting in there. It is a big mess, we are lucky to still be here as is. If anything we must start to think about ourselves again and what this outcome means to our survival.”

“We’ve barely kept our head above water for this past year. The tribes are still in shambles having their populations cut so dramatically and elders being replaced hastily. Our vibranium deposits are lessened and our borders completely cut off from the rest of the world. There is only so much more that we can do.” Okoye rambles.

Nakia breathes out deeply. “It has been too long. We haven’t had a royal descendant head this nation since T’Challa and….Shuri were both….” Nakia’s voice hitches on their words, beginning to tremble as it fades out. The room fell silent between the three, all affected by power of Thanos and left to fend for themselves to piece back together some normalcy.

The throne was not filled officially. The remaining elders and shaman folk were at odds on how to replace T’Challa’s leadership so soon after regaining the throne from Erik. The priority of their time and effort was spent on instead cleaning up the destruction left behind from the battle with the space creatures, and making sure their people still had the necessities to keep the country alive.

“So we will wait on updates regarding the others still fighting, but all we can do is pray that this will come to an end and go about our business here, as always.” Nakia says softly. She has been a strong backbone for everyone but it was not an easy load for her to carry.

With M’Baku’s and Okoye’s help, they had made great strides for Wakanda’s reconstruction, but when the business calmed down and she was left to her own mind, all she could think about was T’Challa and what he must be going through, if he was even still alive. Okoye described to her what happened, but Nakia still couldn’t believe Bast would take him after all he had went through before.

“Eh, what is that there?” M’Baku points with his staff by the window. Nakia and Okoye look out unsure.

“Is it one of those creatures with the blue blood?” Okoye asks, preparing herself with her spear in hand.

Nakia holds a hand up for pause. “No, it’s crawling slowly. How would it get past the barriers?”

“I will go and look. You both may join me if it’s your choice.” M’Baku says before heading down to the flatlands to inspect the unknown intruder. Nakia and Okoye can’t sit idly by and follow close behind.

Once they reach the clearing, the shape becomes more clear. Clad in black, tightly fitting around their body.

“Bast! Have the ancestors gifted us a miracle??” Okoye asks, completely flabbergasted by what she is seeing.

“T’CHALLA!” Nakia screams, running toward his body with all the speed she could muster. She does a baseball slide next to him, running her hands along his back softly.

“T’Challa, speak to us. Are you hurt?” M’Baku kneels down and asks as Okoye and Nakia take their time to flip T’Challa over to face them. His color is pale, and somewhat smaller framed, but alive and breathing.

Nakia feels for his pulse in his neck when his eyes begin to flutter open. “Nakia…”

Nakia’s eyes blur from tears that she quickly tries to bat away. “Yes, I am here with you. Finally, you’re back!”

He strains to sit up, which Okoye scolds quickly. “You stay there, kumkani. I will call the Dora to-”

Her voice cuts off when she looks off across the clearing again. People were beginning to show again. Randomly generating back to the grounds, their bodies moved slowly but they were all alive and back home one by one.

“HAHA!! Wakanda is back! My Jabari are coming home!” M’Baku exclaims as he heads thru the crowd to claim some of his men.

Nakia hooks her arm through T’Challa’s to help bring him to standing. “T’Challa, let’s get you to seek emergency care.”

“Where….Shuri.” T’Challa asks gruffly before coughing up a storm. Nakia looks at him with concern.

“We haven’t seen her since you disappeared.”

“All is well! Look who is back!” Okoye gleams as M’Baku carries an exhausted Shuri in his arms.

Nakia becomes overwhelmed with joy. The pressures of the past year melt away in an instant as things appear to go back to normal again. Hopefully the majority of folks were not permanently affected.

T’Challa looks up to see his sister. “Shuri!”

“She is going to be ok. She is just as well as you are.” M’Baku states as T’Challa looks her over in his arms.

“I am assembling help to treat those coming back. T’Challa and Shuri should go up to the lab for private exams.” Okoye says.

“Do you need me on the ground here?” Nakia asks.

“You go with T’Challa, I have this. M’Baku, be careful with the princess.” Okoye warns before heading back to the crowd of unsnapped individuals.

In the lab, M’Baku sets Shuri down and wishes them well before returning to help the folks on the ground. Nakia holds on to T’Challa’s hand as health technicians take his vitals and hook him up with patches and fast acting tablets to boost his nutrition and immunity levels. T’Challa checks in with Nakia periodically.

“How were you?” T’Challa asks sleepily.

“I am fine, it is you we need to think about right now.” Nakia says.

“How were you?” T’Challa asks again and Nakia finally gets it. Her mouth quivers a bit as T’Challa squeezes her hand tightly.

“I managed. This was exponentially worse than before when I…we thought I lost you. Then, I still had everyone else I knew here with me to set me confidence in and plan for the future. T’Challa, we not only lost you, but the princess and HALF of our people. I have never seen the country so quiet and bleak.” Nakia says shaking her head.

T’Challa’s hand reaches her cheek. “Thank Bast it is over now.”

“How can you be sure of that? What happened when you were gone? Do you remember?”

T’Challa looks off into the distance going blank in the face. “It was….dark. Completely absent of light but the sounds I heard were loud, distorted and heinous. I heard suffering and torture, but no one in sight so I was no help to them. I swear I was on the brink of insanity, I called the ancestors as often as I could concentrate but it was the first time I truly felt forsaken.” T’Challa’s jaw tightens thinking back to his predicament.

Nakia swallows the rock in her throat, fighting back her emotions as much as she could. “I couldn’t help you this time. There was no way any of us could help you. I’m so sorry T’Challa.”

He shakes his head lightly and tuts at Nakia. “Do not do that. You are not to blame for any of this. You did exactly what I needed you to do. Keep calm, and take care of Wakanda.”

“You are Wakanda to me. Without you, after everything that has happened…I can’t lose you again T’Challa.” Nakia whimpers, holding her face in her hands and getting up. As she walks away a group of shaman elders come, adorned in their purple garments.

“Kumkani, we must bring you to the garden area to restore you.” One says as two help him up on either side of him.

“Nakia, wait.” T’Challa calls after her.

Nakia stops but doesn’t turn around. “I am not use to this, T’Challa. I need a moment to process you being back and knowing this isn’t a dream, but you better go and build back your strength. I won’t tell you twice.” Nakia warns him before walking out.

T’Challa lays back on his exam bed thoughtfully. He sees where Nakia is coming from, but is she ready to see for herself?

“Get him out of my lab so I can properly rest.”Shuri groans drowsily in her canopy off to the side.

T’Challa smirks at her small frame bundled up in border tribe blankets. “Rest well, sister.”

Later that evening, Nakia sits in the royal chambers staring out of an opening in the room overseeing the landscape of Wakanda. More lights were shone in the buildings and streets than there had been for a while. She breathed in deeply the night air, peacefully coming back to the idea of normal.

The bed shifts beside her as she turns to see T’Challa joining beside her.

“Are you well?” Nakia asks in a flat tone.

T’Challa leans his elbows in his knees looking out in the same direction as she is. “I am. I needed some time with my father again in the ancestral plane, and the elders cooked a good meal to bring back my strength. I was hoping to see you there at dinner as well.”

Nakai can feel T’Challa’s eyes on her but she would not meet his gaze. “I know but, I was not ready. It’s just…so soon.”

“Do you wish I was gone for longer?” T’Challa asks with a smile in his voice.

“Don’t joke like that!” Nakia hisses, tensing up. “Everyone was gone, so many things we had to start from scratch. The vibranium mines are backed up with materials, the river irrigation system is only partly functioning. I have so much to consider-”

“Nakia.” T’Challa says with soft command, grabbing her wrist to bring her hand into his gently. Her eyes fall to his action, falling silent from her rambling.

“Nakia, you have done exactly what you always do: take charge and lead others.”

“No. I watch out for myself. As a spy, I am on solo missions all the time, I work well alone. There’s no one else to look after and depend on, it’s easier that way.”

“You aren’t selfish, Nakia. You’re the least selfish individual I know. You are very important and have been for a long time.”

“I know, that is why I am a War Dog and representative for my tribe.” Nakia says matter-of-factly.

T’Challa runs his fingers along her knuckles carefully, drawing small circles on her skin. “I do not mean you are important to only the country, Nakia. You are important to me. You have saved my life twice now.”

“I did not this time, that’s what I’m saying!” Nakia says.

“You did. With the time you spent here. You stayed, you didn’t give up despite my absence.”

“I couldn’t make myself believe you were dead.” Nakia whispers, looking into his eyes tearfully.

“I never was. Neither time was I, and you pushed on.”

Nakia found it hard to shake her feeling of uncertainty. “T’Challa, how do we do this?”

T’Challa sighs deeply. “With patience, faith.”

Nakia bites her lip, resting her head on T’Challa’s shoulder. “And if you leave again, what should I do?”

“I wouldn’t worry about that. I never go very far.” T’Challa says, wrapping his arm around her. Their bodies soften into one another.

“I know, I just never expected to have to worry about your death so soon. And back to back at that, tsk.”

“You have much more willpower than I could imagine having inside of me. You do not give up, therefore I do not give up. You are the spirit I carry in my heart to keep going. How can I fail?”

Nakia give T’Challa a small smile, reaching for the back of his neck, giving it a light massage. “When you fight, I will fight twice as hard.”

T’Challa yawns stretching dramatically. “Then you must be very tired, fighting with me all day is exhausting.”

“We are not fighting! I love you too much too much lay a hand on you.” T’Challa pauses, only smiling for a few seconds, making Nakia nervous. “What?”

“You love me, you say?” T’Challa questions.

“That is no secret, T’Challa.” Nakia answers.

“No and I love you too.” T’Challa says, leaning in to softly kiss Nakia’s lips. Nakia feels herself shake a little, overwhelmed by his gentle touch. She dreamed many nights for this day to come, and if this happened to be another one, she prayed she never awaken again.

“…but I don’t love you too much to keep my hands off of you.” T’Challa quips, feeling along her thighs, through a slit in her dress.

Nakia’s hands snake around his neck, filled with bliss. “Don’t you dare take them away.”

#shaka asks #shakafic #t'challa fanfic #t'chakia #t'chakia fanfic #t'akia #t'akia fanfic #black panther fanfic

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levi-inthesun · 6 years

Text

Do You Trust Me? Chapter Two

Peter x OC Colette

A/N: sorry It’s been a hot minute since my last update, but here we go! Chapter three will be up in the next few days, and I am currently writing chapter 4!

Tags: @dungeons-and-awkwarddragons @bigexplodingstar

“Alrighty then!” Tony exclaimed as you walked in for another day of testing “Lets get this started shall we?” he had a glint of… something in his eyes. Like he was planning something and you weren’t’ sure if it was making you feel nervous or excited. Over the past few days you had loads of blood drawn, different types of scans and x rays, and they even took a sample of your cartilage (which somehow did not hurt as much as you anticipated). In addition you had gotten an upgrade you that could have only dreamt up to your mobility aids (Your wheelchair could change between a sitting or standing position, but it had an option to FREAKING LEVITATE. You were pretty pumped about that. And then they gave you a new, much sleeker looking cane which took the pressure off of your wrist),. Today, you saw various types of workout equipment scattered across the lab connected to different machines with various wires hanging off of them.

Swallowing loudly, you turned to face the small group of people who formed your ‘team’ “I have to workout today, don’t I?”

“If by work out you mean use the equipment so we can monitor you, then yes, you get to work out today.” Dr. Banner picked up a clipboard before walking over to you. “We need to see how different parts of your nervous system are reacting to different kinds of movement, this way we can see what triggers you’ll want to avoid. Before we get started, is there anything you know already that makes you feel worse in any way?”

“Running… I can’t-” Your mom interrupted you before you could go any further, thankfully stopping the emotions that started bubbling up in your throat.

“Coco used to run track and cross country in high school, that’s how we found out about the Osteoarthritis, it’s really bad in her knees.” Your mom knows what a sensitive subject running is for you. It had been your ‘thing’. You were one of the fastest kids in your school until the excruciating pain started.

“That reminds me!” Tony practically yelled before he ran off. Coming back not even a minute later with a few odd looking cuffs. “Tony, I already told you those don’t help me. I have tried wearing knee, elbow and wrist supports. They do nothing.”

The smile on his face didn’t fade, much to your surprise.

“These aren’t ordinary braces or supports kid. Actually, Peter! Get your spidey-ass over here!” Tony called to the room he had just came out of. Peter slowly emerged from the room looking a little caught off guard. “Uh yeah Mr. Stark, what do you need? Are they not working??” looking worried until he saw they were still in Tony’s hands.

“Peter here helped me make these. Underoos, why don’t you explain to Colette what they’ll do?”

“Yeah! Okay sure! So Colette, we used some of the same technology as Mr. Stark’s Iron Man suit, but with a bit more tinkering. They should completely take any pressure off of your joints. Making it less painful for you… You could probably even run again!” he said with a huge smile on his face.

“Oh! Wait… are you serious?” Wide eyed from the possibility of running and moving without pain made you act without thinking. You walked over to where Peter was standing and enveloped him in a huge hug. Once you realized what you were doing you pulled back quickly, both of your faces reddening.

“Alright, well if you two are done flirting with each other, and might I add, quite awkwardly, let’s get started!” Tony eyed the two of you before raising his eyebrow at the boy before handing you a small stack of clothes, if you could call them that.

They had you change into a pair of spandex shorts and a sports bra, both with a small version of the stark industries symbol on them. You swiftly realized that this way they could connect a bunch of wires to you, without having to tuck underneath more clothing. It also made it easier for the braces to be placed properly.

“Hey Peter, why don’t you show Colette how to adjust the braces while Jolly Green and I get everything else set up?”

Before giving him time to react he shoved Peter towards where you were sitting trying to figure out how to get them on. Peter audibly gulped before walking the rest of the way over. You hadn’t been self conscious about being in so little clothing up until Peter was sitting in front of you.

“Here, let me help” Peter took the knee brace from you, opened it up and attached it around your knee, having a cuff below and above your joint. After helping with the other one he looked back up at you staring slightly before you cleared your throat, bringing him back into reality. He had been kneeling in front of you and was very close to your face.

“Uh, here is how you turn it on and this button will adjust how much pressure is left on your actual joint.” he quickly got up and walked away, leaving you to play with the new tech on your legs, and watched from a few feet away while you put the different cuffs on your other joints. After finishing adjusting the cuffs so that they felt more comfortable, you gave yourself a once over, realizing your shorts had buttons similar to the cuffs on your joints.

“Hey Tony, are these shorts-” “Yes! The kid didn’t tell you? Those shorts are a little more advanced than your other support cuffs, it will automatically adjust so all you have to do is turn them on. It may be a little uncomfortable at first, but you should find it’s easier and less painful to move your hips.” Tony swayed his hips at you since, well, Tony is just a little bit extra.

Peter and Tony wanted you to try running first, since that was one of your favorite pre-illness activities.

Nervously, you stepped up onto the treadmill as Dr. Cho hooked up a couple wires to different spots on your chest, abdomen and then up your spine.

“Okay kid, whenever you’re ready.” Dr. Banner said as he and Dr. Cho turned to watch the machine you were plugged into.

You decided you should start slowly since your body wasn’t used to running anymore. You turned the treadmill on and walked for a few minutes, leaning down a little to adjust your knee cuffs a little bit more. Once you realized you weren’t in pain, you hit the accelerator button a few times, and then a few more, and for the first time in 4 years, you were running. Looking to the others in your excitement, you saw them smiling and taking notes. Your mom was in the corner, watching with tears in her eyes. Spotting her put you over the edge, tears spilling from you eyes as she came over to you. You hit the “STOP” button, hopped off and embraced her. You both fell to the floor, as you both started sobbing uncontrollably.

After a few minutes passed and your tears started to subside, you remembered you had an audience. Giving your mom another hearty squeeze you both got up. You were still out of breath from running (and sobbing your eyes out), but you managed to let out a small thank you. Looking up you saw your ‘team’ with tears in their eyes too. Except Peter, who was nowhere to be seen.

After composing yourself you continued on with the different tests. Your mom had to leave about thirty minutes later for work, so now it was just you, Dr. Banner and Dr. Cho. Tony had left to work on some of his other inventions.

You were pleasantly surprised with your physical ability now that you didn’t have pain in your joints. You weren’t strong by any means, you could barely bench the empty press. By about 2 pm however, you were more than worn out and your nerve pain was starting to kick it up a few more notches. In addition to this, you were nearing the emotional stage of exhaustion. Once Banner noticed your current state he decided that what you had done was more than enough for one day. After changing back into your clothes and taking the braces off, you sat yourself in your wheelchair and made your way back to your room.

“FRIDAY, could you order me some take out from that Thai place down the street?”

“Of course Coco, would you like your usual?” FRIDAY asked in response.

“Yup! Thanks FRIDAY!”

You took a shower while you waited for your food, letting the warm water envelope your sore and tired body until you remembered you were waiting for some food. Pulling on your favorite pair of sweatpants and an old t shirt, you sat on your bed and pulled out your music collection. You decided on a mix you had made of your favorite songs by Birdy. Two songs later you heard a knock on your door. Forgetting your pain for a minute, you jumped up to open it where you saw Peter with an expanse of take out food.

“I made FRIDAY let me know when you wanted food, I thought maybe we could eat together?… sorry… I realize that’s probably weird… I can just leave these here for you.”

“Nonsense, that is actually really sweet of you Peter.” you smiled sweetly at him and let him in

“Oh, yeah, okay, no problem!” He started setting out all the food and told you what everything was.

Once the two of you had settled into eating he noticed you staring at him.

“Oh no, is there something on my face? I’ve been told I am not the cleanest eater” he said, wiping his face off with a napkin.

“No, you’re face is fine... I was… I was just wondering where you disappeared off too earlier?”

“Oh, um, I just… I had something I had to go do?”

“Are you actually asking me or are you trying to make something up?”

“Dang ok. I just. Please don’t think I am weird… actually you probably already think I am. That’s fine just. Um. Look, Colette-” “Please call me Coco” you said setting your hand on his “I already convinced FRIDAY too”.

“Yeah, okay, Coco” he smiled as the nickname left his lips. Feeling Peter’s hand move under yours (and realizing you were still holding his hand) you started to move it back onto your lap, until you saw he was turning his hand to play with yours as he started talking.

“Coco. I was honestly floored that the cuffs Mr. Stark and I had made were working. We had them tested way more that necessary because we didn’t want them to end up hurting you instead of helping. And when I saw them working, I couldn’t contain my excitement. When you broke down however, I honestly thought you were in pain and let me tell you, I was crushed just like that. I snuck out because I… well… I couldn’t stand seeing that I had caused you so much pain, I just couldn’t handle it… Tony had found me later telling me that that wasn’t the case, which I am so glad, you have no idea how relieved I was.” Peter turned his body so that he was facing you, still playing with your hand. “The other reason I left was, well, I was scared I had given you false hope about running again… and… and I knew that if that had been the case, you wouldn’t want to be around me, which would suck because I honestly think you’re the coolest person I have ever met.” At that he looked back up to you, shocked to see a giant smile on your face as you stared at his hands holding yours.

“Coco, what?” “I uh, I think you’re really cool too Peter” you looked up, meeting his eyes “I uh, I never got to thank you for the work you did on the cuffs, so… thank you” you whispered as you leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. Ducking your head away as quickly as your lips had met his face, you pulled your hand back and continued eating the food in front of you. If you hadn’t looked away so fast, you would have seen Peter staring at you with wide eyes, mouth open, his hand touching the place on his cheek that you had just kissed. Peter could feel his heart racing and was positive you could hear it too.

Standing up abruptly, Peter made an excuse about leaving as he ran out of your room, shutting the door behind him.

Once Peter had made it safely to his room, he shut his door and leaned up against it for a moment, almost in a trance before he started dancing around the room as if he had won the lottery, practically singing the words “she liiiiiiiiikes me!!!!!! I think she likes! Me! AHH!” before plopping down on his bed.

After Peter left, you started to worry you crossed a line. Dang it! I shouldn’t have done that! You internally screamed at yourself. You liked Peter, obviously. Why did you have to go and ruin everything like that? He probably just saw you as a friend.

Once cleaning up the leftovers was finished you plopped down on your bed, remembering the events of the day, you were ready to sleep. You couldn’t get your anxiety about Peter to wind down, but you did eventually fall asleep.

Around 2 am, Peter heard you screaming from his room, which was just around the corner from yours. Thinking the worst, he jumped out of bed and rushed down the hallway, throwing your door open.

Seeing you thrashing around your bed, your blankets thrown everywhere. He happened to see your pj’s, and realized you were only wearing a tanktop and some short shorts. Your screaming and panicking brought him back to the issue at hand, and away from how cute you looked in your little pajamas.

Kneeling down next to you, he tried shaking you awake.

“Coco! Wake up! It’s okay, it’s just me, it’s Peter” he continued shaking you and calling to you. After a few minutes he realized that it wasn’t getting you anywhere, he called your mom, knowing she would know what to do.

“Hello?” your mother answered the phone “who is this?” “Uh, Ms. Barton, So sorry to call so late, it’s Peter, uh, Peter Parker” “What’s wrong is everything okay???” When she heard you in the background she asked again, more sternly this time. “Is Colette okay Peter?!”

“Ms. Barton, Coco is having a nightmare, I think. I can’t wake her up. She keeps thrashing and screaming and I don’t know what to do!” Peter responded in a panicked voice.

“Okay, okay, this happens often. If you stroke/play with her hair it will help her calm down. It’s what I would do to get her to wake up.” she said hurriedly. “I am on my way, okay?”

“Okay, thank you Ms. Barton! I will see what I can do until you get here!”

After hanging up with your mom, he tentatively placed a hand on your head. Once he started playing with your hair and talking to you in a hushed tone, you started to calm down. Finally your eyes shot open in a panic.

“Colette! It’s okay, its just me.”

Looking over to the voice, you instantly relaxed.

“Peter, what are you doing in here?” you asked with shaky breaths.

“I heard you screaming. Your mom is on her way over to make sure you’re okay” he was looking at you tenderly as he continued to play with your hair. “Do you get dreams like that a lot?”

“Uh, yeah. Sometimes. They started a few years ago.” you said flatly. They were always about the abuse you faced at the hands of your father.

“Do you, do you want to talk about it? I am a very good listener.” He said proudly.

“Not right now, thank you though. I should call my mom to tell her she doesn’t have to come.”

Throughout your phone call with your mom, Peter stayed with you, still running his fingers through your long hair.

You could feel yourself relaxing more and more and Peter continued to touch you comfortingly. When he noticed you started falling back asleep, he slowly got up, not wanting to wake you.

“Hey, Peter?”

Turning back around he responded, “Sorry, I was trying to be quite.”

“No, you’re fine… I was just wondering, if you could stay, until I fall back asleep at least?”

“Yeah, yeah of course.” Peter replied too quickly.

Noting his enthusiasm, you smiled sheepishly at him and moved your blankets so he could get in with you.

“Would you… would you keep playing with my hair?” you asked as he slide in next to you.

“Of course” he whispered as he pulled you over to him.

You both fell asleep quickly.

You woke up sometime after noon. Even though you were still exhausted and not at all rested, you slowly stretched your tired limbs and opened your eyes. When you realized Peter was gone, you let out a disappointed sigh. Then, you saw a note on your bedside table. Groaning at the movement, you reached over to pick it up.

Coco,

I was called on a mission and I didn’t want to wake you up. Sorry for falling asleep when you just asked me to stay just until you did. I remembered you like smoothies, so there is one in your fridge waiting for you.

I also was hoping, if you feel up to it I mean, and please don’t feel like you have to say yes… um would you want to go see a movie with me tomorrow night? We don’t have to actually go anywhere, there is a screening room here at the compound.

Anyways, just let me know. I should be back around 3pm tomorrow.

Try and get some rest.

Have a great day! :) Peter Parker

As you read, and reread the note, you felt the familiar butterflies erupting in your stomach and in your heart.

“Aaaaaah!” you scream, falling back onto your bed all while holding the note to your chest.

….Meanwhile on the mission...

“So Web brains, why do you keep avoiding me???” Clint asked over the ear piece as he shot an arrow at a HYDRA agent.

“What? Uh, what are you talking about Mr. Hawkeye?” He said as he swung up onto a building to keep lookout.

“You know exactly what I am talking about kid. Natasha, back me up here?”

“Yeah, you aren’t as sneaky as you think you are” Natasha’s voice came over the comm “listen, we all know you have a HUGE and not so subtle crush on Colette. You might as well man up and face Barton.” Underneath his mask, Peter was turning bright red.

“Wait, that’s what this is about?!” Clint said in surprise “I didn’t even realize… I am a freaking spy and I didn’t realize…..”

Peter didn’t reply until after he took down another agent on the roof he was on.

“Uh yeah… Mr. Hawkeye, I may have asked your niece out on a date for tomorrow night. I hope that is okay…” he said quietly, awaiting his response.

“Look kid” Hawkeye sounded a little exasperated “Coco might as well be my daughter.”

Peter’s heart dropping, assuming he was about to get told off.

“But she is an adult, and very capable of handling herself. That being said, you hurt her and you will find an arrow with your name on it stuck in that pretty little face you’ve got. Got it?”

“UHYESMR.HAWKEYESIR.”

Once the threat was neutralized, those who weren’t needed any longer went back to the quinjet. Deciding to play some games on his phone to kill time, Peter found he had a text from you.

Coco: (1pm) Hey there Spiderman! I found your note, and the smoothie, it was amazing! And I would love to go out with you tomorrow night :) Be safe!

Peter let out a happy squeal, only to remember he wasn’t alone. Straightening his face back out he shot you a text back

Back at the compound

Since you were wracked with fatigue, you decided to take it easy. You had taken a nice long bath (in the super fancy and HUGE tub you had in your bathroom), taken a 4 hour long nap, and let netflix ask you a few times if you were ‘still watching’ while binging parks and rec for the 10th time in your life.

You heard your phone go off as you were braiding your hair. Picking it up, you smiled to yourself seeing who it was from.

Spiderman: (10:50 pm) Awesome! We just have to get some intel then we will be headed back. I am excited to see you tomorrow :) Goodnight Coco :)

Without a second thought you shot him a text back before turning off the light and climbing into bed.

Coco: (10:52 pm) Glad to hear it :) Goodnight Peter :)

The next day, you went to see if Natasha or Wanda happened to be home. After no luck, you wandered over to the lab, knowing that Dr. Banner hadn’t gone on the mission yesterday. He wasn’t your first choice in having someone help you get ready for your date, but he was someone, and the two of you had grown closer recently. You felt like he was family, a second uncle, actually.

“Uh, hey Dr. Banner” you said as he looked up from where he was working “I need a favor…”

After explaining the situation, Bruce sighed before answering. “Really? Is Wanda or Natasha not here? What about your mom?” he said in an almost panicked voice.

“Nope, they’re on a mission, and my mom couldn’t get any time off today…” looking at the ground, you shuffled your feet uncomfortably.

“Okay.” he groaned “Fine. I will help you. You should know this is not my area of expertise.”

Looking back up to him, you jumped up to give him a big hug “Thank you sooo so much! I promise I will make it up to you!” you said excitedly as he gave you an awkward pat on the back.

Soon, you and Bruce Banner, the freaking Hulk, were out at a shopping mall. Banner was looking only slightly uncomfortable as the two of you looked through the racks of clothes.

“What do you think of this?” You asked, showing him a cute, short dress.

“No way Coco, your uncle would KILL me if I let you go on a date in that”.

You purse your lips and nodded in agreement, putting it back

After going back and forth showing each other different pieces of clothes, Bruce was the one to find you the perfect outfit for your date. It was a fitted green tee shirt dress, paired with a cream colored crochet cardigan with fringe on the bottom hem.

After trying it on, and finding some cute but comfortable shoes, you guys were headed back to the compound.

After about ten minutes of comfortable silence, you realized you hadn’t ever been on a date.

“Uh, Dr. Banner?” “Kid, we just went shopping together, I think we are on a first name basis by now. What’s up?” “Okay… Bruce? Um… I feel a little weird asking you this, but uh… I haven’t ever been on a date before…. I was pulled out of school before I could really get into all that.”

“Oh” he replied. “Well, what questions do you have… I may be able to answer them…. Actually couldn’t you just call your mom?” he looked at you with a worried expression.

“No, she has a major project she is working on… Please Uncle Bruce?”

At hearing you call him your uncle, he automatically melted, realizing you could ask him to do just about anything and he would do it for you.

“Alright, hit me.”

The two of you talked the whole rest of the ride back to the compound, and the ride back up the elevator.

Once the elevator doors opened to the residential floor, you remembered one last thing. You quickly turned around and put your arm in the way of the closing doors.

“WAIT! Before you go…. What do I do if he... Uh, you know… tries to kiss me?” you asked, face bright red.

“Well” Bruce stopped, scratching the back of his neck, obviously uncomfortable, “If you want to kiss him, kiss him back? BUT if you don’t want to, don’t. Okay? And if he tries to kiss you even if you tell him not to, kick him where it hurts and call me and a certain unfriendly green giant will deal with the kid. I’ve got to go work on somethings now, bye Coco.” You let the elevator doors close and you made your way to your room.

This might be your first date, but you had seen plenty of rom-coms to know the best way to get ready for one was to blast your favorite music.

Knowing that the artificial intelligence had a better sound set up than you, and knowing you had the residential floor all to yourself, you decided FRIDAY was the best option to get you geared up for your date.

“Hey, FRIDAY? Could you play anything by the band Haim?” “Of course, Coco” the AI responded. Soon you heard the first beats to ‘falling’ one of your favorite songs by them.

You danced around a little as you got ready, putting on some light makeup, and taking your hair out of the braids you had put them in after your shower the day before. You threw your outfit on, and ran your fingers through your hair a few more times.

Spiderman: (3:20 pm) Hey Coco! Sorry. We are just getting back and I need a shower. I seriously don’t think I have smelled this bad in a loooong time. I’ll be ready to go around 4 if that works for you???

Spiderman: (3:20 pm) Uh tmi… sorry!!!!!!

Not a minute later he got a text back

Coco: (3:21 pm) Sounds good to me! Glad you got back safely :)

Spiderman: (3:21 pm) Thanks Coco :) I’ll see you in a bit!!!! :)

Peter made it to your room at exactly 3:59. He had rushed through his shower and tried on at least 5 different outfits, making sure he looked perfect. He was all done by about 3:45 and had been talking aloud to himself for the last 15 minutes, trying to hype himself up to go knock on your door.

“Okay Peter, you are Spiderman. An Avenger!!!!! You have fought tons of bad guys. Hell, you’ve stolen Captain America’s shield from him! YOU CAN DO THIS.”

Finally, seeing that it was about 4, he quickly checked his reflection one last time before running out the door.

You had jumped the gun and was ready by the time Peter had texted you. This had given you too much time and spent it sitting around, playing with your hair, fidgeting with your dress, and second guessed your outfit about 10 times already. When you finally heard a knock on your door, you jumped up immediately. You threw the door open, and saw Peter standing there, looking amazing. His brown hair was in it’s normal messy curls. He was wearing a fitted red short sleeved, printed button up and dark fitted jeans. You could have sworn your heart had leapt out of your chest when he finally looked up at you, a huge smile playing on his lips as he checked you out.

“Um, hey Peter” you said shyly as you tucked a piece of hair behind your ear.

“Hey Coco, you uh, you look incredible” he said quietly before giving you his arm “you ready to go?”

Looping your arm in his you nodded as he led you out of the hallway.

Of course though, you lived with a bunch of extremely protective people who considered the both of you family, so everyone, and I mean EVERYONE was gathered in the living room.

You heard Peter curse quietly under his breath before giving you an apologetic look. “Um, everyone sort of berated me for details of this evening… sorry.”

“It’s okay Peter, I assumed this would happen” you both took a deep breath before continuing on.

“Ah! There they are!” Tony said, announcing your presence.

“Didn’t think you could sneak away without saying goodbye to us first did you?” Steve said before giving Peter a pat on the back.

“Okay guys move out of the way!” you heard your mom from the back of the group “Oh baby you looks so beautiful! When did you get that dress???”

“Oh uh, actually I made Uncle Bruce take me shopping earlier.” you said, giving Bruce an apologetic look.

“BRUCE? Really?” Natasha said as she stared wide eyed at the scientist.

“Dang it Coco, I knew I should have sworn you to secrecy, I am never going to hear the end of this…” he said with a sigh as he glared at Natasha and Wanda who were in a fit of laughter at the idea of Bruce helping you shop.

“Well, thank you for helping her pick out some clothes. I’m sorry I couldn’t be there for you earlier, but looks like you were in good hands!” your mom said before kissing your temple. “Okay kids, get together! I have to get some photos!” She said excitedly.

You just groaned, looking up at Peter, mouthing the word ‘sorry’ as you two posed for some pictures.

You let your mom fuss over you for a few more minutes, surprised when not only your Uncle Clint, but Steve and Bucky fussed over you as well.

“Now Peter, you're alright and all, but if you hurt or even disappoint our Coco, we will have no choice but to murder you.” Bucky said as he glared down at the fidgeting boy, behind him Steve was standing with his arms crossed, making him look even larger than he already was. “We know where you sleep” Steve said, both of them backing up as they continued to glare.

Finally you guys made it out and away from the mass of your protectors. You had decided to get out of the compound for the evening, realizing having a private date would be virtually impossible with everyone you guys lived with. You were nervous enough without having everyone around to watch.

Once you guys made it to the car lot, Peter went to open your door.

“Colette, you really do look beautiful” he said as he let you into one of Tony’s more inconspicuous cars.

“Thank you” you said, barely above a whisper.

Peter bit his bottom lip as he grinned widely, running around the car to get in.

He put the car in gear and started heading out to the street.

“So Spiderman, where are we going?” you said as you fiddled with the radio, stopping once you found your favorite oldies station.

“Well, I figured we could go get something to eat, and then I promised you a movie, didn’t I?”

He pulled the car into the parking lot for an old-fashioned looking diner.

You fidgeted with your dress again and adjusted the cuffs you were wearing on your knees as Peter ran around the car to get your door.

The diner was mostly empty, so you guys picked a booth near the back, next to the jukebox.

The two of you talked all through dinner and continued way past the time you were supposed to head out for the movie, but neither of you noticed.

You loved talking to Peter. You loved how excited he got about seemingly small things, and you loved how comfortable you felt with him. Yeah you were nervous and awkward, but that was simply because this was all new to you.

Little did you know, Peter was absolutely infatuated with you. Everything you did he noticed. Like how you would perk up when he asked you about something you really enjoyed or were passionate about. Or how when you were feeling especially nervous you would bite your bottom lip and play with a few stubborn strands of hair that kept hanging in front of your face.

“Wait a second. You can dance?! How come this didn’t come up earlier??”

“I dunno. Can you dance?” he asked

“Nope. I have two left feet” you laughed to yourself, remembering the last time you had actually danced with someone had been back in the 7th grade.

“Well, how about I be the judge of that!” Peter stood up, holding his hand out to you, wiggling his eyebrows.

“No... no way! I really don’t need to embarrass myself like THAT. You already have a lot of knowledge you could use against me!” He let his hand fall with a scowl on his face. You thought you were gonna get away with this, but instead, Peter sauntered over to the jukebox, hitting a few buttons before he dance-walked over to you as he started singing along to Be My Baby by the Ronettes, pretending to hold a microphone in his hand.

“The night we met I knew I needed you so!”

“Oh no!” you gasped hiding your face in your hands.

“And if I had the chance I wouldn’t let you go!” He fell onto his knees in front of you dramatically as he continued, a little louder this time.

“So won’t you say you love me! I’ll make you so proud of me. We’ll make them turn their heads, every place we go!”

He took your hands, and swiftly pulled the both of you to your feet.

“SO WON’T YOU PLEASE! BE MY LITTLE BABY!” the song continued in the background and his lips were next to your ear “don’t be nervous” he whispered, “you could do anything and I’d think you were amazing”.

You bit your lip (for like the 100th time that night) and finally let Peter swing you around a small area the had staff cleared once they realized what Peter was up to. Soon ‘My Girl’ was playing and you finally let loose and was singing along as Peter continued to spin you around the restaurant. A few songs went by and you guys were still dancing and giggling and smiling widely at each other. Soon you heard ‘Dream a Little Dream of Me’ come on and Peter drew you in closer. He quietly hummed along as you guys swayed to the song.

Much to your dismay, the song ended, and a gentle quietness grew as you took a step back to look at Peter. He was smiling down at you, his eyes flicking between your eyes and your lips. Feeling a little braver than normal, you took a small step forward. You felt your heart flutter as you both leaned in to the other. Your eyes closed as you felt his lips brush gently on your own. Once his lips leave yours Peter pulled you in to a close warm hug with you smiling into the superheroes chest.

Soon sound of an upbeat song pulled you both out of the trance you had found yourselves in. Uprooting yourself out of his embrace, you smiled shyly towards the ground and sat back at your booth, him following your lead.

After a moment the waitress who had helped you guys made her way back to your table with the check. Come to find out, the diner was supposed to close about 10 minutes ago, but didn’t want to interrupt the two of you. In addition, the diner owner had been there and gave you guys a discount because you two had been ‘so damn cute’.

Once the bill was paid and you guys were on the road again, you finally saw the time. You guys had spent the whole evening at the little diner.

“So, uh, looks like we are a little late for our movie” you glanced at Peter, who still had the biggest smile on his handsome face, causing him to look even more attractive than you thought humanly possible. You made a mental note to try to make him smile more often.

“Yeah, wow. We sure did lose track of time didn’t we?” Noticing he was driving back to the compound, you couldn’t help but feel a little disappointed.

“Tonight isn’t over quite yet Coco, don’t worry.” He said, grabbing your hand to leave a chaste kiss, bringing back the smile he loved so much.

“Care to let me in on what’s coming next?”

“Well, I promised you a movie didn’t I?” “That you did.” “I cannot break my promise, especially without the threats Bucky and Steve gave hanging over me!” at that you laughed. You had been surprised at the Winter Soldiers protectiveness.

Once you guys had made it back to the compound, Peter parked in an odd spot. The oddness continued when he walked with you around the back of the building.

“Now, I know how good the security system of this place is, but I made a deal with Tony so that no one will bug us…. Do you trust me Colette?”

“”What?” you asked, having an odd sense of deja vu.

“Do you trust me?” “Yes.”

Peter pulled you into him, “hold on tight” he whispered. This time, you realized what was going to happen and soon the two of you were flying through the air, with you were clinging onto Peter tightly.

Once you felt solid ground beneath your feet, you let your grip loosen and let out the breath you didn’t realize you had been holding.

“Ah, I was wondering if you two would ever show up” Tony said nonchalantly. “Everything's all ready for ya kid.”

Before completely leaving the two of you alone he added “be a gentleman, or I will not hesitate to let Bucky and Steve know what happened. FRIDAY will be watching.” He winked at you and walked off.

Peter grabbed your hand, bringing you in through the patio door and down the hallway. Soon you found yourself in a giant room, filled with large plush chairs and an even bigger screen up front.

#hippietaco writes #peter parker x oc #marvel fanfiction #spiderman fanfiction #avengers fanfiction #please give feedback

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btsunderthesamemoon · 7 years

Text

I'm in Love with My Bestfriend's Boyfriend

Pairing- Jimin x Reader

Type- Series

Summary- A young teenage girl meets a amazing boy. Park Jimin, She easily falls for him, but pushed her feelings away until it’s to late. Her best friend had already fallen, and gotten Jimin. Will she stay away from their relationship or will she break the bonds she had with her friend to get to her love?

Chapter 5

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Yoongi POV

I felt my body shake in fear. I sat near a stretcher with my younger sister laying on it, unconscious. I gulped hard, holding back a few tears. To everyone else I seemed calm and collected, but no one can be calm in a situation like this. I took a shaky sigh, glancing at Jimin beside me. His head was in his hands, a few sniffles coming from him. If I didn’t know any better, it would have looked like he was sleeping peacefully, but I could tell he was just as distressed as I was. Ever since she collapsed, I held onto her hand tightly, afraid to let go of. I felt that if I did, she would fade away from me. I know inside she would live, but she could never be the same. Her personality already changed when our drunktard of a dad came home before all this. She became more quiet, and I knew it, but I didn’t do anything. I should have comforted her, but I didn’t. I was too afraid myself to even think about my own sister, and I hated myself for that. I promised myself to take better care of her from now on, even if I do it alone.

As we walked into the hospital, (y/n) was rolled into a compact room to be treated. I was forced to wait outside, only hoping for the best, both mentally and physically, when she wakes up. Jimin urged the nurses to let him in to see her, but they all pushed him to sit down. He eventually calmed down, but still paced around the room. I payed no mind, know how he felt. My foot twitched in anticipation. I wanted some sort of update on her, but I got none in the end. I closed my eyes and willed myself to calm down, breathing heavily.

Reader POV

Light filled my clouded vision as I woke up from what I assumed to be sleep. I yawned lightly, blinking a few times to clear my sight. Everything around me was almost all white, giving off a slight glow. I shielded my eyes from the intense brightness, and groaned. ‘Where even am I’ I thought curiously.

Suddenly, everything came back to me. Instead of crying, I sat there numbly. I was surprised at my own calmness to the situation at hand. I shook my thoughts away, running my head through my hair. The (y/h/c) locks of hair fell back in front of my eyes. A small thought hit me. ‘Where’s Yoongi?’ I thought. Worry filled my head, thinking of what may have happened.

After a few moments of fear for my brother, I calmed down, hoping for the best. I finally got to look around. I realized a heartbeat later that I was in a hospital room. My face turned blank, thinking back to what exactly happened. A sigh left my thin lips as a headache came to me. I sat up, ignoring my body’s protests. My sore arms lied on my lap idly. I honestly didn’t know what to think anymore. The person I had looked up to most had almost killed me. What was he even saying? I winced as I remembered his harsh words. Tears glazed my eyes slightly and I finally realized the door opened.

A nurse entered the room, and her eyes widened once they landed on me. She dashed out the room, the door slamming loudly behind her. A few moments later, the door opened and Yoongi came in. Jimin trailed in sheepishly soon after. "(Y/N)...you're awake, you're okay." Yoongi said and embraced me. I felt the tears slip from my eyes, hugging Yoongi back tightly.

We pulled away from each other a few heartbeats later. I suddenly felt cold without Yoongi hugging me, but pushed the chill away. I finally realized Jimin was standing awkwardly beside Yoongi, and focused my attention on him.

“Hey…” I said trailing off. I wondered if he was afraid now just as much as I was. My throat felt dead, but I paid no mind. He waved a little bit before whispering to Yoongi. My brother glanced at me before hesitantly leaving the room. Jimin remained with a troubled expression.

“(Y/N). Are you feeling better?” I was fiddling with my fingers as if they were the most interesting things in the world. I gulped, and chuckled, trying to lighten the tense mood.

“What’s your definition of ok?” I said. I was surprised at my own voice. It was ragged, and deeper than normal. Jimin tried to hide his wince, but it was obvious he knew something.

“Well, i’m feeling physically ok… I guess. Did anything happen to me when I was unconscious?” I asked, feeling anxiety creepy up my body. Jimin shifted from one foot to the other, making me fear what happened.

“Your dad was taken to court… He was immediately found guilty and went to jail… You also… won’t be able to use your voice or your arm for awhile… You’re lucky that you can still see. You almost lost your sight.” I gaped at him. I somewhat understood why my father was sent to jail, but I couldn’t comprehend why I wouldn’t be able to speak. I looked up at him waiting for a further explanation. He glanced up at me with a bit of hesitation.

“Something has been inside your vocal cords for awhile, and they just found it now. The doctors say it’s because of poor care to your throat. They managed to help with that, but at the cost of your voice. As for your arm, it was cut harshly in that small scene, so you can’t use it without hurting yourself for about a month or so. Don’t worry though! The doctors say you have a chance of getting your voice back, so don’t panic about it.” My mind was once again numb for the upteenth time. Jimin finally looked at me since he told me about this.

I suddenly became aware of the throbbing pain in my throat, and the aching in my arm. I sighed silently, earning a puzzled look from Jimin. I shook my head in thought. I was already used to disaster hitting me, but I never thought that it would hit me this hard. I scanned the room for something to write with, finding none in the end.

“How do I communicate with others?” I said quietly. This made my throat burn like a thousand suns, making me flinch. Jimin looked at me with sympathy, and gave me a notepad. He quickly pulled out a pencil from his pocket, and tried to smile at me. I smiled back, nodding my head in thanks. My slender fingers wrapped around the thin pencil, grasping the notepad in my other hand firmly. Even this tiny gesture had cause me pain in my upper, left arm. I thanked god silently that it wasn’t my dominant hand. I scribbled something quickly, holding it up for Jimin to see.

“When am I going home?” My eyes drooped at the thought of my cozy house. ‘Can I even consider it home anymore? So many tragedies have happened in that home that it feels more like a murder house then a place to be safe.’ I gulped back light tears that appeared, blinking them away. He looked at the note, thinking for a few moments.

“Most likely in a few days, but….” I nodded, telling him to go on. “You won’t be staying in your original house… Since it’s technically a crime scene for the moment, you can’t stay there. I offered to let you stay at my house, but Yoongi refused. I don’t really know where you’re going to be honest.” I thought for a moment, wondering where I was going now. I opened my mouth to speak, but I quickly shut it, remember the pain. I tightened the grip on the pencil and notepad lying unmoving on my lap, and started to write a few words.

“Can I see my brother. Alone?” I asked through the notepad. He nodded understandingly, and walked outside. Yoongi appeared a few seconds later, a blank look on his face. Once he saw my petite figure, his eyes flashed into worry.

“Hey sis. Do you need anything?” He asked, choosing his words carefully. He walked over to me slowly and startled him by suddenly wrapping my arms around him. He slowly returned the gesture as if I was so fragile I could just break. I shook and hugged him tighter. Tears silently slipped down my cheeks, which only seemed to make Yoongi worry even more. The only sound in the room was the light sniffles that left me. I took a long, deep breath to calm myself, but I didn’t let go of Yoongi. I felt as though I could lose him any second if I did.

I finally decided to let go after a few more deep breaths. As I pulled back, I saw guilt and worry still plastered on my brother’s face. "I...I'm fine Yoongi." I managed to choke out. He quickly grabbed the notepad and pencil, extending them to me, but I pushed his arm aside. I needed to talk to him, no matter how much it burned. "Please don't hate Dad. Please don't blame yourself. He was drunk, he must've been pressured or something-" I stopped talking and coughed. "(Y/N), stop talking. Your throat is going to become worse." Yoongi said, ignoring what I had just said. "Yoongi. Forgive Dad-"

"(Y/N)! He broke the promise he made with us! He left us with a debt! He gambled and drank! How can I forgive him?!" he yelled with his fists tightly closed and shaking. Hurt flashed through his eyes when he saw me flinch at his tone. "I-sorry..." he muttered before leaving. I closed my eyes, gathering my composer.

Relaxing into my pillow, I felt myself drift off to sleep, even with the battle in my mind still fighting.

#Jimin #jiminxreader #bts #yoongi #suga #bangtansonyeondan #beyondthescene

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mesdea · 7 years

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The Philosophy of Lost Chances Chapter 8

I'm sorry for the late update. I've had some health issues that just haven't allowed me to be in the right frame of mind to write. I think I'm having as rough a time as Qui-Gon at this point.

This chapter was tough for me and I just couldn't tweak it anymore.

Comments are always welcome and help to chase the blues away. Thanks for continuing the story with me.

Obi-Wan wrapped his body protectively around the trembling form of Master Jinn. He felt the tremors start to abate as the moments went on. The soft sobs and tears slowly starting to settle. “That’s it, come back to us Qui-Gon. It’s going to be ok.” The words were spoken as a soft mantra, over and over until they seemed to penetrate the panic stricken master’s fog. Obi-Wan felt Qui-Gon tense in his arms, his body language showing shame and mortification for his situation. “There is no need for that, Master Jinn. Everyone needs help now and again; at least that’s what Master Mace taught me.”

Qui-Gon squirmed in the constricted grip that the padawan had on his body. He was embarrassed and wanted nothing more than to push him away and run. Run and hide, it seemed to be his own mantra as of late, especially around this young man. He squeezed his eyes shut, letting the last of the tears fall down his cheeks. “I…” He had no idea what to say. Qui-Gon Jinn, the great negotiator was out of words.

Obi-Wan let his grip on the man waiver and titled his chin to look at his face. Bright blue eyes gazed at him in confusion and fear. “Fight or flight.”

“What?” Qui-gon croaked out from a sore and parched throat.

“That’s what I see when I look into your eyes. Fight or flight seem to be the only choices you see, but there are numerous more. “Obi-Wan settled in front of the master, letting a bit of distance separate them now. He watched as the master before him pulled a curtain over his emotions yet again.

“Thank you Padawan Kenobi for your…assistance, but I’m fine now. You may go.” Qui-Gon squared his shoulders and took a deep breath.

“Bantha poodoo.”

Qui-Gon couldn’t help but chuckle, this was an apprentice that was raised by Windu, how could he expect anything less than a foul mouth and stubbornness. “That is not a way to talk to a Master, young Kenobi.”

“You are right it’s not, but right now I’m not talking to a master, I’m talking to a man who just had a massive panic attack. Everyone knows the tales that are spoken behind your back Master Jinn. They talk of your last apprentice, and how you refuse to ever take another padawan. Everyone walks on egg shells around you and no one reaches out to help. Perhaps one time they did reach out, but they stopped trying when you needed it most, didn’t they?”

Qui-Gon stood and wrapped his cloak tightly around himself, closing his eyes at the mention of his lost padawan. “Yes, I’m sure they do all talk about how I failed my apprentice and lost a bright and loving student. Do you have a point?” Obi-Wan could tell the walls that Qui-Gon had built over the last years were once again building up and he fought to keep them down for the moment.

“Everyone else has talked about it, but have you?” Obi-Wan stood and eased himself a bit closer to the retreating man before him.

“I told the council.”

“You told the council everything that happened, I’m sure, but have you ever told anyone how it made you feel? Better yet, have you even told yourself how you truly feel about everything that happened?” Obi-Wan reached out and gently placed his hand on the master’s chest, feeling the strong heartbeat beneath the wool cloth.

Qui-Gon’s breath hitched at the touch, staring into the soft blue-grey eyes of the man before him. He didn’t understand the pull towards this young man. He wanted nothing more than to share everything with him. He brought his own hand and laid it on top of Obi-Wan’s, closing his eyes as he thought of the words to explain.

Just as Qui-Gon opened his mouth to speak, Obi-Wan dropped his hands to the side and turned around toward the walkway. “I’m sorry to interrupt, Master Jinn, but the Queen requests your presence. Chancellor Palpatine will be landing within the half hour and she would like to invite you both to an informal lunch.” Captain Panaka was standing at attention, waiting the response.

“We would be delighted, lead the way please.” Qui-Gon took a deep breath and glanced at the padawan. “We will talk again later, Padawan Kenobi. I promise.”

“As you wish, Master Jinn.” Obi-Wan waited for the two to proceed and took his place a few steps back from the master. It was the position of a padawan and it made Qui-Gon’s shoulders tense. He stood still for a moment and looked back over his shoulder, lightly tugging at the Obi-Wan’s cloak. “I’m not your master, please walk at my side.”

“As you wish, Master.” Qui-Gon once again cringed at the words, but let them go. This man seemed to get under his skin at every turn and he wanted to run as much as grasp him in his arms. He just didn’t understand what the force was trying to tell him. “Shall we go?” Qui-Gon nodded and they started toward the great hall in the palace.

“Master Jinn and Padawan Kenobi, I am so glad that you could join us. How is your Master, Padawan Kenobi? The queen spoke with concern. The formal setting didn’t allow for first names and other pleasantries, but the young man bowed to the Queen and smiled.

“I’m happy to say that he’s awake and healing. I’m sure it won’t be long until he’s beating me in the salles once again.” A servant led them to a stretched table where others were already sitting and conversing. Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan were seated next to each other, just on the left hand side of the queen with empty chairs across from them. Qui-Gon could still feel the energy that Obi-Wan was sending, the reassuring thoughts and warmth flowed between them both.

Just as they were all settling into mundane conversations around the table, they were all alerted of the chancellor’s arrival. They stood up and gave the new leader the respect that was due, even though Qui-Gon hated how he came to power, replacing the man that he had come to call friend, Finis Valorum. It didn’t seem right that he was replaced so suddenly and with little proof of the collusion he was charged with. Looking down the table at the older man, shaking hands and smiling to those around him, the force nagged at him. He gently probed around the chancellor and flinched at the sudden headache that permeated his skull. Obi-Wan looked over with concern as Qui-Gon gently rubbed at his temple and bowed his head in attempt to hide his discomfort. “Master Jinn, Master Jinn. You don’t look so well.” The man before him stopped and sat opposite of them, a large smile plastering his face. There was no other word to describe it, but slimy.

“I’m fine, Chancellor. We are glad you could visit Naboo, they will need aid to help rebuild, help that you could ensure with the senate.” Qui-Gon shrugged off the headache and put away his own personal feelings for now and concentrated on doing his job.

“This is my home and I serve at the pleasure of my Queen. I would not be chancellor otherwise. I wanted to visit and see the damage myself and offer what sympathies I could. I was very sorry to hear about Master Windu, he will be ok?”

“My master is resting and will recover.” Obi-Wan’s voice was calm and collected but Qui-Gon felt his annoyance through the force. It would seem that Qui-Gon wasn’t alone in his loathing of politicians or maybe just this particular one.

The meal was brought out and they all began to eat as the conversations turned to ordinary topics of politics. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon ate quietly, not really offering much to the conversations. They just watched and listened as trained to do.

“Padawan Kenobi, I heard you killed the creature that attacked your Master? He must be so proud of your skills.” The smile never seemed to leave his face, even as his words came out harshly. There was just something off about this man and Qui-Gon wasn’t going to let it go.

“Padawan Kenobi did indeed dispatch the threat to the Queen and the Naboo. The Jedi council will investigate this matter further as the man was a force wielder. He was fallen or something…more.” Qui-Gon looked Palpatine in the eyes, almost seeing a flash of anger at his words.

“I did what I had to do to save my Master.” The words were soft, but the pain of remembrance was still there in his voice.

“I’m sure you will earn your just rewards for such a feat, young Kenobi. If the council does not recognize such heroism, then I must.”

Obi-Wan just looked at the older man and then back to Qui-Gon, not really knowing what to say to such a thing. “We serve the Senate and the people, Chancellor, we do not seek rewards.” Qui-Gon felt Obi-Wan’s tension through he force and stood up. “We do thank you for the meal, my Queen, but there is much left to do before we head back to Coruscant.” He turned and took the queen’s small hand in his and brought it gently to his lips in a small kiss of custom as Obi-Wan turned and bowed.

“It was nice to see you Chancellor, I’m sure we will see you again soon.” Qui-Gon pushed his robe back and bowed low to the man before him.

“Thank you again for your aid. It will not be forgotten.” The chancellor turned to his side to continue his conversation as the Jedi walked out of the hall.

Qui-Gon walked quietly down the hall, lost in his own thoughts about the garden and the lunch with the chancellor. The force was trying to speak to him, he knew it, but it wasn’t making any sense. The only thing heard in the hallway was the tapping of two sets of boots as they wandered back to their rooms. Obi-Wan stared at the maverick before him. He had heard so many stories from both other padawan’s and his master about Jinn’s many adventures. He would drive the council mad, but always seemed to get results.

As the doors opened to their suite, they stood momentarily still in the common area, silent. “Credit for your thoughts?” Obi-Wan broke the silence, unable to stand it any longer.

“I was just thinking. Would you like some tea?” The man was going to hide again, push it all down; Obi-Wan could feel it. He would act like nothing happened and try to move on as normal.

“Tea would be fine, but only if you talk to me.” Obi-Wan hung his robe on a hook by the door and helped the master do the same. The silence still deafening as the moment dragged on. “I know I’m just a padawan, but I want to help.”

Qui-Gon let out a soft sigh and ignored the tea for the couch, resting his tired body against the cushions. “You are not just anything, Obi-Wan. You never have been and never will be. Your master has taught you well and I agree with him, that you are ready for your trials. I wouldn’t be surprised if they knighted you upon your return and count this AS your trial.” The words were soft and faint, but they did fill Obi-Wan with a sense of pride that he found him capable.

“You are more than capable, young one.” Obi-Wan flinched as the words were said.

“I’m sorry, I’m not prying, your shields are just very open to me right now.” Obi-Wan gently probed his own shields and found them completely solid, except to Qui-Gon. He tried to raise them but found he didn’t really want to hide from this man. “I guess you’re right, but I don’t much feel like raising them against you.”

“You should, I’m not a man that is worthy of such trust.”

“Are you saying that you will corrupt me?”

Qui-Gon exhaled and lowered his head into his hands, his head still ached from the chancellor. “I’ve corrupted a young one before. He was such a loving boy when he was younger. He was always so inquisitive and wanted to learn so much. He pressed himself at every turn to please me.”

Obi-Wan sat next to the master, knowing that this was a story that needed to be purged. “I gave him everything he wanted. I gave him knowledge, praise and my love, but it never seemed to be enough. Everyone talked to me about it, but I didn’t see it. I only saw a perfect padawan. As he got older, he started to pull away from me; he was moody and always questioned anything I said. We started fighting, but I figured it was just the normal boundaries of a padawan on the cusp of knighthood, wanting to stand on his own.” Qui-gon stood up swiftly, rubbing his chest somewhat as the story continued. “I told the council that he was ready for his trials. They did not agree and said he needed a test. We were sent to his home planet of Telos to assist, where his father was a ruling factor.”

Obi-Wan continued to watch Qui-Gon pace back and forth against the carpet, his breathing starting to quicken. He could see the panic starting in his eyes and reached out for the master’s hand pulling him back onto the couch next to him.

Qui-Gon paused his story and gazed into the concerned eyes of the young man before him. How could someone he barely knew care so much for his well-being. He felt the strong fingers lace through his as Obi-Wan held on tight to offer comfort. “Go on.” The soft accented words echoed in the silent room.

“There were riots in the city against his father. His sister was caught in the riots and died. The governor came down harsh on the citizens and seemed to try and groom Xanatos to side and away from the Jedi. I saw it happening and I tried to help. I tried to talk to him and ease the pain and conflict but he wouldn’t listen.” The words were starting to pour out of his mouth faster.

“His father lured him into his own madness after his sister’s death and he started to help him. I tried to reach them both and pull him back to the light, to talk him into coming back. This only angered his father more and he insisted on dueling me. I had no choice, I tried to stay on the defensive until he tired, but he had an errant strike and I countered and pierced his body with my saber. Xanatos screamed and ran to him, crying and cursing me.” Obi-Wan noticed the master’s eyes were closed as if he were reliving that very moment. He squeezed the hand he held so tightly, offering comfort to get through the rest.

“His aura changed in that moment. What was once light and love was now dark and full of hatred. He rose from his father’s body and drew his lightsaber against me. He vowed his revenge and started to fight me. I couldn’t really believe what was happening; the boy I had raised hated me and wanted me dead. I could feel his loathing through the bond and then it snapped. The pain overwhelmed us both, but he was able to flee before I pulled myself together. I still watch the shadows for him, he’s out there waiting.”

“That is why you refused another padawan?” Obi-Wan’s voice seemed to startle him from the memories.

“That is exactly why. I will not infect another promising young life.” Qui-Gon thought back to when Obi-Wan was just a boy and Master Yoda tried to manipulate them together. “Do you know why your master took you so young, Obi-Wan?”

“He said I was like a bright light in the force and he wanted to lead me to knighthood. Why?”

“Mace took you for that reason and more. He took you to keep you safe from me. Master Yoda was trying to push us together and I’m sure in the end he would have been successful. I’m broken and your master saw that, it’s why he didn’t want you near me.”

Obi-Wan let go of the warm hand and clenched his teeth as he processed everything he was told. He wasn’t sure why, but he felt, betrayed. He couldn’t stop thinking about what his life might have been with the man before him. How he could have helped him heal. But then he thought about Mace and how he took care of him, taught him and loved him.

Qui-Gon felt everything from the young man and couldn’t blame him. Perhaps this was his way of pushing Obi-Wan from his life. It just made it confusing and difficult to let another person into his twisted world.

“I’m sorry Master Jinn.” The soft words were laced with bitterness. “I need to meditate on this.”

Obi-Wan quickly grabbed his cloak from the rack and flew out the door, not even looking back at the man whom watched with bated breath. Qui-Gon was once again alone. He told himself this was the way it should be, forever alone and paying penance for the loss of a promising knight. He at least had some solace in the fact that Mace had raised a fine man, full of light and hope. He had not ruined this one and he wouldn’t start now.

#quiobi #Qui Gon Jinn #obi wan kenobi #the philosophy of lost chaces #jinnobi

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lifewithoutmeds · 6 years

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november 11th

happy veteran’s day, happy peppero day, and happy birthday gk!

hmm 10 days eh? 10 whole days.

not much has changed. some people at work got promoted so some people are gone, and cubicles are empty, and i changed cubicles to one that i’m not quite comfortable with yet.

i went to sedona for four days with lido which should’ve been fun but we fought so so much and that wasn’t fun and kind of killed it for me in the last couple days. nice scenery though and my firestarters worked, which was a plus.

but most of my days have been filled with thinking about the DJ and how enamored i am with her. last we spoke we had discussed getting foot massages in pasadena and for the past two weeks i’ve been in a feverish fervor thinking about it and wondering if she’d come, and what would commence if she didn’t. i’ve told everyone who would listen and who knew my situation and i got a lot of discouragement from it, from doing anything, from pursuing anything, etc. etc. but i just continued on my tortured way and even on wednesday drove up to northridge to see her and maybe get some type of status update but she didn’t end up showing and i was devastated and felt that it was a precursor of things to come.

but guess what. today is saturday. which means that friday has passed. and i’m in good spirits! she showed. she did not disappoint.

i pull up to the driveway of the foot massage around 7, 7:05 maybe and i see this slim blond with a black leather jacket holding a starbucks cup striding in my direction and i’m like hot damn. she’s here. once i park, i walk back the driveway and she’s leaning against the black gate like something out of a damn magazine and i say something like, “wow, you made it” or something similarly lame. then i go on to say something like, you’re early. and she says something to the effect of she wasn’t sure what time she had agreed to be there, and i nod or something to that effect.

so we chitchat and after a few minutes step in, at maybe like 7:10 or 7:15 and chat in the waiting area. she looks at the fish and baby turtle and walks up to the front desk, inquisitively looking at everything, touching the tiny christmas tree, and i watch her. she is as beautiful as i remember, and has that strange quality of being again one way when she’s still and a completely other way when she’s talking to me directly, very expressive and with a lot of eye contact. she talks a lot and i ask a lot of questions and i ask whether her pants roll up and she pulls her pants up as high as they comfortably go which is just past her ankles and i shrug and say that should work but also offer her the freshly washed and dried joggers i had brought in case she had worn her typical skinny jeans which she eventually requests once inside the room. i also ask whether she’d like a heads up on what she’s about to experience or whether she’d just like to go with it and she opts for the former so i give her a quick rundown on what to expect. i prepay for the both of us in cash so that there isn’t any awkwardness afterward, and we sit in our respective rooms, occasionally chatting before the massage starts.

during the massage there’s not a ton of communication between us. i can hear her in the other room and i’m listening, listening for anything, to make sure she’s ok, to see what her interaction is like with the masseuse, to get angry if the masseuse ends up leaving for a while to attend to the door or the phone, etc., and pretty soon it becomes evident that the DJ is enjoying it, is asking what the masseuse’s name is, is practically purring with pleasure at certain points, and i ache and wince from somewhere deep within me. the masseuse will ask if she’s ok and she’ll say something like, ‘this is wonderful’ and by the time it’s all over, she has this dazed, sleepy grin on her face and she is just beaming with gratitude and it is worth every damn dollar.

once we walk out i ask if she’s had dinner and she says she’ll get something at the bowling alley and i say i brought salads, to which she smiles and says “of course you did” and we walk back to my car and i pop the trunk to reveal a small cooler with her choice of two salads from Whole Foods which were a frighteningly hefty $8 each! holy shitballs i wish i had known that earlier i might’ve only bought one haha.

there’s the “chinese-inspired” salad and the always reliable caesar’s salad and she goes for the former, and i also offer her a cool La Croix passion fruit which she accepts, and she gives me a long hug. then i offer to walk her to her car and we walk down a couple blocks and once at her car i ask where she’ll be next week, and if she’ll be at the bowling alley this friday as per usual, and she says she’ll need to check, she’s not sure, and hey she’ll keep me posted so why don’t i give her my number and she puts my name, first and last, into her phone, as well as my phone number. then i wave goodbye and walk away, and as she passes me she gives a quick honk and i wave again.

i go home, happy as a clam, and change, and go to bed.

then i remember that she has a sore throat and i MIGHT have these amazing throat lozenges and i tear out of my room, tear into the medicine closet, and pull out three brand new packs, and in two minutes, have thrown my clothes back on and have jumped back into my damn car and am racing to the bowling alley. without hesitation i just walk up to her and she looks surprised and i say something like, hey, i brought you some throat drops, and without missing a beat she tears open the package and pops one in her mouth and thanks me and says how she was just worried about how her throat hurt and how she would have to talk all night. we chat a bit and i ask where the regular bartender is and she tells me she got fired and that the manager is a dick and that he says she spends more time talking to people than being on the mic so i excuse myself to the bar and order a club soda and she does her thing, walking down the lanes, giving away free games, calling out drink specials, etc., and afterward, swings by again and stands close to me while we chat some more and at a certain point she says she needs to do her 11:00 beer goggles thing so i high five her and say if i don’t see you, bye. and our hands touch. so i try to close out my tab but the bar tender dude just sort of waves it away and i feel bad because i gave all my small bills away as tip and i have nothing but then i slip out and i say bye to the DJ and go home for real this time.

i know she’s straight. i know she likes guys. has been with guys. lives currently with a boyfriend though the way she speaks about him it may very soon be an ex. i know there’s no future with her. there’s just ... desire and longing on my part, and just infatuation and adoration. and i know she must get some small kick out of being adored, and of being on the receiving end, possibly more so than i do of adoring her, so i sort of think there’s no harm here, except of course to me, when inevitably something will give and i will be devastated .... but a part of me feels like i can’t help it, and another part of me is a very willing participant. people keep pressing me to make some sort of definitive statement about what i want, what i would most desire from her, and i stop short of making any sort of proclamation. i don’t know if i want to go there, at least at this moment. this is enough. and that might be sad, but like, oh well.

highlights of the evening:

her asking to wear my sweats/joggers, and later commenting that they smelled good the long hug after i gave her the salad her sleepy grin after the massage the high-five the honk from her car as she passed her mentioning that someone had told her about the Yelp review i had made and seeming pleased her texts to me later that night, thanking me for the night and saying that the salad was great, and ending it with “you’re the best.”

cost of two massages: $72 (two $25 massages plus 2 $11 tips) cost of two Whole Foods salads: $15.98 likely cost of the three packs of cough drops $5 one LaCroix passion fruit sparkling water $0.50 evening: priceless.

what a night. it was a good night. i am very pleased.

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klaumiel · 3 years

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You are all I’ve got, Damien// Chapter 10: Mother Karma

I felt a sharp pain before landing on the ground. My neck was bleeding, Bennie’s knife was so close to my skin that even though I managed to release myself from him, he still cut me.

At first, I thought it was just a small scratch, so my eyes landed on Damien who’s fists continuously crushed Bennie’s face. Damien’s face was terrifying full of hate and fury; he completely lost control of himself. A small part of me was scared of him in this form, was this Damien from the past? Is that who he was? He talked about this so many times, how he had to fight with himself, how horrible he felt every time he hurt someone.

Damien looked at me; his eyes were filled with tears; I tried to warn him, but I couldn’t make a sound until it was too late. Bennie thrust his knife right into Damien’s chest; I was too weak to get up, too weak to scream or even cry. I felt hopeless, watching him collapsing on the ground hurt more than anything. I heard him yelling my name, but I couldn’t do anything. I watched my boyfriend bleed, and there was nothing I could do.

I saw two guys taking Bennie, dragging him away, he yelled to finish us off, but police sirens stopped them from it, I saw them running away before everything went dark.

----

I woke up hearing familiar voices. I opened my eyes and saw my Dad’s face, smiling. Everything felt like a dream, faded.

‘Maya, sweetie’ I heard him say.

I looked around I was laying on the hospital bed, surrounded by familiar faces, Shaun, and Dad. I tried to move my head, but sharp pain followed, and then everything came back to me.

‘Sweetie, you are in the hospital. Thank god you are awake, we were losing our minds… Don’t force yourself … Shaun, go to get the doctor.’ My Dad said, holding my hand.

‘Where is Damien?’ I shifted nervously looking around. I had no idea if he was even alive. I passed away right after Bennie’s escape, and he was badly wounded’ Please tell me he is OK… Dad, where is he ?’ I panicked, my eyes filled with tears by the thought that he didn’t make it. Please don’t tell me he is dead!

‘Shh... Hey!... calm down. He is here, few rooms away.’ He said, trying to calm me down, but his face was serious, I knew that look. That wasn’t very reassuring.

‘How is he? Is he awake?’

‘How long we’ve been here?’

‘Six days’ He said ‘ but that doesn't matter, you are OK, and that’s all it matters.’

‘What about Bennie? Please tell me they found him, he couldn’t go far.’

‘No sweetie, they didn’t fund him. Police are looking for him; he seemed to vanish.’

‘One of the guards helped him for a reasonable sum of money, and few others were covering his ass…they will find him, Maya. Stop worrying now; they know what they are doing.’

I doubt that very much.

‘And what is Damien’s situation? Will he be alright? … but Alex, be honest, please’ I looked him in the eyes.

‘Well, that’s a bit more complicated. Damien’s wound was deep, causing severe internal damage. The knife missed the heart but didn’t spare the lungs; we managed to patch him up, but the internal bleeding did more damage than we thought. So far he is functioning well, but we need to wait for him to wake up to have a full diagnose… I am optimistic; he is very strong.’ He said, rubbing my arm reassuringly.

‘What you mean by more damage?’

‘Coma!?... No, no… I need to see him now!’ I said starting to get up but suddenly felt dizzy and fell back on the bed.

‘Easy there … Not yet, you should be resting. We will have you checked today, and we will see tomorrow, I will keep you updated on him, I promise’ He said with a smile, helping me lay down.

‘Alex please, I need to see him now... do you want me to beg?’ I said. He knew that if he didn’t help me, I would go one way or another.

‘Ok…I will have a nurse to take you there in few. I need to check on him anyway so I can keep an eye on you as well’ He smiled

‘Thank you Alex’ I said

‘It will sound bad, but I didn’t want to see you here again so soon. You two were very lucky; few more minutes could’ve been too late.’ he said and walked off the room.

My mum stormed into the room, wearing sweat pants and hoody, she looked so tired, her hair was messy, no make-up. She smiled when she saw me.

‘Maya, sweetie’ she cried and wrapped her arms around me ‘ you give us a proper scare’ she said, kissing my forehead ’how are you feeling, love?’

‘I’m good Mum, my neck is a little bit sore, but Alex said it would heal well’ I smiled

‘You have no idea how we were all worried about you two. Shaun called us when we were at the airport, waiting for our flight to Paris. He said you would be fine, but Damien … ‘ she stopped and looked at me, her face was full of worry.

‘Mum?’

‘You should go to him, Alex said that he could hear everything, maybe if he will hear you he will get better.’ she said ‘I’m sure he is sick of hearing my voice’ she laughed.

‘Maya...’ Alex’s head pop through the door ‘ Ready?’ he asked.

I nodded, the nurse brought the wheelchair and helped me sit, a few moments later, we entered the room.

‘I will leave you here for a moment; I just need to check on him.’ He said. Damien’s chest was wrapped in bandages; I was so glad to see him in one piece.

‘He’s heartbeat is slow, that’s not a good sign.’ I heard Alex whispering to the nurse; he saw me staring and turned away and said something to her; she walked off the room.

‘Alex… should I be worried?’ I asked.

‘No Maya, everything is ok’ he give me a reassuring smile.

I turned to Damien, grabbed his hand gently in both of my hands ‘My mum told me that he could hear us? Is that correct?’ I asked.

He nodded, I pushed myself up from the chair and brought my face close to his, I kissed his temple still holding his hand ‘Damien… honey… I’m here’ I whispered to his ear ‘ don’t you dare to leave me, you hear me? I need you to wake up.’ I heard the cardiac monitor beeping faster. I turned my head to Alex and smiled; he smiled back.

I’ve put my hand on Damien’s chest gently rubbing his skin ‘Come back to me.’ I whispered.

‘Whatever you are doing is working’ Alex said, stopping the nurse from injecting some medication to Damien ‘ Rose, I don’t think we will need that, for now.’ he smiled.

‘Can you move me to this room?’ I asked, looking at Alex.

‘Thank you, Alex.’

‘Yes, he is a friend’ I smiled ‘ I will text him and tell him to come over.’

‘Great, I will pass that to the reception.’

The same night my bed has been moved to Damien’s room next to him. I knew that me being close to him will help in his recovery. My parents finally went home to get some rest

I texted Skylar letting him know we are okay and that I need to talk to him urgently.

I needed Skylar’s help; I knew that police wouldn’t find Bennie and I had to do it myself, for our own sake, so we could finally have some peace.

This had to end, Bennie being around had to end. After that event something in me broke, I felt pure hate and rage every time I thought of Bennie. It wasn’t just about what happened that night; it had more to do with Damien’s mother, his face when Bennie mentioned her was so full of pain and sadness, I knew deep down that this bastard had something to do with it, and I had to know what exactly happened.

I decided to relax and buried my mind into the Outlander, checking every now and then on Damien. The room was utterly silent; I could hear only beeping of the machines. I was deep into my book when I heard a quiet gasp, I turned my head and put my book down, Damien’s eyes were openly looking right at me.

‘Baby’ he said quietly. I jumped off my bed and sat next to him, grabbing his hand. I smiled wildly; I was so happy to see him awake.

‘I’m so happy to see you alive Maya’ he said quietly ‘I thought I’d lost you.’ His voice was soft and warm.

‘I’m stronger than you think’ I smiled, happy tears falling down my face ‘But we are both fine, and that’s what matters now.’ He moved my hand from his cheek to his lips and kissed.

‘I love you so much baby, I felt like the world shattered in a million pieces when I saw you there.’ I saw a single tear falling on his cheek.

‘I love you too. And I’m fine.’ I smiled

‘Did they catch Bennie?’ he asked.

I tried to keep my face straight, but he knew, he could read me right through.

‘Damien…let’s see what the doctor says first and then I will tell you ok? You are too weak yet; you should rest.’ I said, knowing that wasn’t convincing at all.

‘Maya… please, tell me. I need to know.’

I took a deep breath ‘He escaped…but police are looking for him, they are close’ I said trying to calm him down.

He didn’t say anything, but I saw the anger in his eyes, the same anger I saw that night.

I kissed Damien gently on the lips, grabbed my phone and walked out the room.

I called my parents to tell them that he woke up. Mum wanted to come over right away, but I told her that he needs to rest, after all, it was the middle of the night.

I sat in the corridor deep in my thoughts, completely lost the feeling of time. Something was bothering me; something I had in my head ever since I woke up. Damien’s face, when Bennie mentioned his mother, did he really watched her die? Is this his last memory of her? And what Bennie had to do with it? I knew she died when he was only a kid and that he didn’t remember her for a long time, but what exactly happened? All those questions in my head, I needed to know the whole story, soon. I needed to decide on what to do. Next, I couldn’t just let it go. I found Bennie before, I could find him again.

I felt tapping on my shoulder; I looked up, it was Alex. He sat next to me and smiled.

‘You have no idea how glad I am to hear that, thank you.’ I smiled and hugged him.

‘Couple of days.’ he said, getting up.

I went back to the room, Damien was sitting on the bed, smiling.

‘They unplugged me.’ he laughed and extended his arm to me ‘Come here you.’

‘I’m sorry baby’ he said.

‘What for?’ I was a bit confused.

‘Damien, stop it! Don’t even go there … there was nothing you could do, we are alive. That’s the most important; you didn’t fail me, you are still here, you didn’t give up.’ I said, rubbing his face.

‘I should've protected you better.’ he looked down.

I pulled his face up ‘You protected me the best you could… for god sake, you nearly died, Damien, how can you talk about failure? You would’ve failed me if you died… leaving me alone … that would’ve been a failure. Because guess what smart ass, I would die without you, do you understand?!’ I said with a serious face. How can he even think like this?

We laid together on his bed wrapped in each other, enjoying the silence. I decided it is time to start “that” conversation.

‘What was it? I asked, looking at him.

‘I was eight years old when that happened. Bennie was already a teenager; he was old enough to be involved in the business with pop. He was always jealous of me because pop treated me better; after all, I was younger and less problematic. His mother was a drug addict; she died when he was no more than two. Pop decided to move on and met my mother; she was an average person, a nurse, with a golden heart and face like an angel. Pop told me that it was difficult for her to get into his lifestyle, but everything changed when I was born. She raised Bennie like his own son, at least she tried. She treated us equally no matter which one of us was at fault she punished us equally, but he hated her for some reason, and he hated me more than anything. He made my life difficult every chance he got; Pop didn’t have time to discipline him he wasn’t home very often, so we were left with mum, I know she loved him, she was a good person, she never hated anyone… She always said that nobody is perfect, but everyone can be fixed …One day she went to chop shop to talk to pop, but she saw something that she shouldn’t, few guys from the other gang tried to rob my Pop’s shop, she saw their faces but managed to escape home, not for long. A few days later we were home, waiting for Pop to come back when they showed up, I don’t remember in detail what happened but… they questioned her first and even though she said she wouldn’t say a word to anyone about what she saw, they slit her throat in front of my eyes, only because she saw them, she had no idea who they were and what they were doing there. Only years later, I’ve learned that Bennie was the one who told them who she was, he also told them that she worked with pop, which was a lie…they killed her because of him, Maya, he hated her and found the way to get rid of her, and hurt me in one go, after everything, she’s done for him …’ Damien’s eyes filled with tears, which he quickly tried to wipe. He turned his had to me and looked at me ‘ He took everything from me, exactly the way he always said he would. Mum, Pop, my freedom, and he tried to take you.’ He rubbed my cheek with his thumb wiping my tears.

My heart dropped, the pain I saw in his eyes was heartbreaking.

I realised that I never hated anyone as much I hated Bennie, I never wished anyone death before, but at this moment I wanted him to die in pain, with whole this pain that Damien felt.

We talked for hours, he told me about his mother's good memories, all the happy things he remembered.

I didn’t sleep for the rest of the night; I was busy planning my next move.

‘Skylar!’ I got out of bed and hugged him. ’So good to see you’ I smiled.

‘How are you doing you, bastard? You gave me a proper scare; I thought for a moment that you were gone, but ambulance came just in time.’ he said, looking at Damien.

‘I’m tougher than I look.’ Damien smiled.

‘How come you were there?’ I asked.

‘I followed Bennie’s thugs; I arrived seconds after they escaped with him.’ I saw Damien’s jaw clench.

‘Let’s go to get coffee; Alex said you couldn’t stress.’ I said, rubbed Damien’s arm and whispered in his ear ‘I will be back to you in just a moment, I love you.’ I kissed him, stroking his hair gently.

‘Bring me coffee, ok?’ He smiled.

‘I will be back soon, mate, ladies first.’ Skylar laughed

I took Skylar to the cafeteria; we sat far from others. I didn’t want anyone to overhear what had to tell him. We ordered coffee, and I cut to the point.

‘I have a plan… but not a word about this to Damien ok?’ Skylar raised his brow and leaned closer. I knew he would be interested. ’Will you help me?’ I asked

‘I will’ he smiled

‘I need to find Bennie; the police is useless’ I said, he rolled his eyes laughing.

‘Yeah, no shit Sherlock … you are lucky because I know exactly where he is’ he smiled and sat back in his chair sipping his coffee.

‘How come?’ I asked, surprised.

‘Can this information be wiped? Can anyone find out that this guy’s phone is tracked?’ I asked he looked at me trying to figure out what am I talking about.

‘Well yes, once Seth disables the tracker, there will be no sign of it… Maya, why do you need to know this? What the fuck are you planning?’

‘Do you trust him?’

‘Yes, we helped each other a few times; he is a great hacker. He hacks everything and does what he wants with it.’ He had no idea how valuable that information was for me.

‘Great, we will need him… I need you to keep tracking Bennie. I will be out of the hospital in two days. I need you to be ready the same evening.’ I said

‘Maya, what the fuck are you planning? And why I have a feeling this is something crazy?’

‘We are going to pay Bennie a visit … and finish it once and for all.’ I said, making sure nobody is listening.

‘Elaborate … I don’t think I understand this correctly, what you mean by the ‘’finish it’’?’ Skylar looked a bit worried.

‘Bennie won’t stop hunting us, even if he goes back to prison, he won’t stop. He has people working for him, but they are loyal because he pays them. Damien told me all about the whole gang business; everything will stop once Bennie is gone, and I want to make this happen. Also, there is something else, but I don’t want to talk about this right now.’

‘You are going to turn him in?’ He knew exactly what I mean, but he tried to make sure we are talking about the same thing.

‘No’ I said looking Skylar in the eyes, he understood ‘ How many thugs are with him?’

‘Two, he keeps a low profile …Maya this is crazy you know that right?’

‘I know, but that’s the only way. I need Damien to have some peace… Skylar I nearly lost him, and that’s not the first time. Bennie is responsible for so much pain in his life; he killed his father, was the main reason for this mother’s death, and tried to kill me. If this is not a good reason to finish him, I don’t know what is. If I don’t do it, Damien will, and I can’t allow it, that’s why I need to you stay quiet, don’t tell him anything until it is done.’ I said in a quiet voice.

‘Are you sure about this? I am not the best bodyguard, you know?’ He laughed

‘You have it all planned out … you cheeky...’ he laughed

‘You underestimated me, Skylar Quinn.’ I laughed back

‘You know that Damien will be furious when he finds out, we are talking about real shit here, Maya. One mistake and we are all going to jail.’

We went back to the room; Skylar stayed for a bit longer, talking to Damien.

I knew that deep inside; he was excited about our little plan. He was a man of adrenaline and risk after all.

Two days later, I was released home in the morning. Skylar already confirmed that his friend Seth is waiting for our signal.

‘Is Shaun coming to pick you up?’ Damien asked, sitting on the bed, watching me gather all my stuff.

‘Yes, he is already waiting in the car.’ I said, sitting next to him. ‘I will come tomorrow, pop into Cinnaholic and grab you something, huh? What do you fancy?.’ I asked.

I rolled my eyes ‘ You mean the fork you never use?.’ I said

‘Ha. Ha… it’s for you silly, I am a trained professional I don’t need a fork. ‘He said, smiling.

‘Maybe I should, you convince me with the hot chicks.’ He smiled, I pushed him when he started to laugh ‘You should see your face.’ he cracked laughing

‘Not funny Damien Jones, not funny at all.’ I said

‘No, I’m fine, just the thought of sleeping alone tonight makes me sad.’ I said the first thing that came to my mind, hoping he will believe it.

‘Alex said they are waiting for some results and I will be good to go. Hopefully, not too long.’ He smiled and kissed me; my phone kept ringing when we kissed.

‘I should go, Shaun is getting impatient. I love you, boo.’ I said talking my bag and placed a small kiss on his lips.

‘I love you too … don’t forget the fork.’ He laughed when I walked out.

I sat in Shaun’s car; my mind was already focused on one task.

‘Do you have everything?’ I asked

‘Shaun, we have everything planned, we just need to focus and stick to the plan.’ I said, trying to sound confident, but the more I thought about this, the less optimistic I was.

‘Are you sure those drugs are still good? It’s been a while.’

‘Yes, I checked. This shit never expires.’

‘Ok, I trust you sister. If this is what you want, I will support you, but I think you should warn Damien, just if anything gets tits up.’

‘Everything will be fine, I don’t want to worry him, plus he would never agree to this.’

‘Should I go now?’ he asked

‘Yes, I will call Skylar and go to get him. I will meet you there.’ I said, hugging him.

‘Good luck to all of us … I hope we will come out from this in one piece.’ He hugged my tight.

‘We will.’ I said and kissed his cheek.

I called Skylar; the stress started to kick off. I was restless walking from one side of the room to another.

‘You ready?’ I asked when he picked up.

‘Yes, waiting for you. I will let Seth know to go ahead; he is waiting for my call.’ He said

‘Great, I will be at your house in fifteen minutes… Skylar … thank you.’ I said

‘You will thank me once is over, now get your ass in here, we have a job to do.’ He said, and hang up. I looked out the window it was already dark. Its time.

I picked up the bike keys from the counter, checked my phone one last time and wrote a message to Damien, before leaving my phone on the table. I knew he would call me later at night, better for him to think I’m sleeping.

‘’I love you, see you tomorrow boo.’’

I didn’t know if using Damien’s bike is a wise idea, but that was a better way to escape quickly, than using my mini Cooper, that takes ages to build up the speed.

Fifteen minutes later, I was in front of Skylar’s door; he walked out as soon as he saw me, put on his helmet and wrapped his arms around my waist.

‘Ready?’ I asked

‘Yes, go.’ He said

The place was around forty minutes outside town, all the way there I had only one thing in my head, everything that Damien told me about Bennie, how hateful and horrible person he is, how much pain he caused him and others. Everything he told me the night before only gave me straight and motivation.