#wow daughter... um what a lovely text there.... very proud of you...

[girl-bateman]

Okay obviously the joy of being published (for the third time now yay !!!!!!) outweighs the awkwardness of ppl I know reading revealing and personal stuff about me but still.... 😓

[supercorpkid]

Pressure, pushing down on me.

Supercorp, Kara Danvers x Daughter!Reader, Lena Luthor x Daughter!Reader.

Word count: 3035.

Warnings: angst and a small panic attack.

If you want, you can read Under Pressure first, and this one will make more sense.

Things have been - you don’t want to use the word great, so – ok. Fine. Honestly, you’ve seen better days. But it’s not as bad, too. You’ve seen worse days. Things are… going.

Lena has backed off a little. She’s not pressuring you anymore. At least not verbally like she was doing. But the pressure it’s still there, even if it’s not so clearly put out. She told you she wants you to do better. To be better. You know there’s a lot of pressure for you to be this perfect being.

Lillian Luthor once told you, and you remember clearly: I guess you are the perfect specimen after all. And lately that statement is ringing loudly in your head.

They once said you don’t have to be perfect with your power, but then Kara complains when you’re not. She called for backup once and almost seems like she regrets that decision already. And then Lena said you were allowed to make mistakes, but you made the mistake of not focusing on your test and she didn’t quite forgive you for that.

The truth is: they are sending mixed signals.

Kara calls you weak and soft, then cries an apology at your feet.

Lena one day decides she doesn’t trust you enough, and goes through your lab, then she lays your head on her lap and says she’s sorry.

Kara says she is proud of how you’re already using your powers, because when she was your age she wasn’t doing so, but talks about her rule of only letting you go supering at 18.

Lena says she is proud of your powers and of you saving her life, but she always makes it feel like this is only the second most important thing. First is always studying.

They miss all of your school events, then stay besides your death bed for endless nights until you’re feeling better.

They say no one is perfect and no one should try to be, but then they push you until you get to the point of perfection. If being perfect is not important, then why are they always asking more from you when you’ve already given so much?

It’s a game of ‘you should do better’ and ‘you’re doing great’. It’s a push and pull from all sides. It’s mixed signals and confusing messages. It drives you to the edge of the precipice, then pulls you back, right when you’re about to fall from it.

And you felt yourself on top of the precipice all week. And when you heard them talking, you knew they were there trying to pull you back, trying to bring you closer. But this time, for some reason, that didn’t work. You’re still right at the edge, and any small wind might push you down. You can feel it. You can see yourself down in the abyss. You just need the tiniest little push.

And the push comes. Because the push was always going to come, whether they meant it or not.

“Hey!” Kara walks in home, and you look up from your books. Maya and Jamie do the same, and you thank Rao she decided to use the front door and not the backyard door, like she usually does when she flies in. “The squad is here!”

Jamie looks at you trying to hold back the laughter and you shake your head, already embarrassed.

“Ok. We’re not using that word ever again.” You say, making Jamie burst into laughter and Maya chuckles softly next to you.

“BOOOO.” Kara points at you, giving you a thumbs down. “I’m a cool hip mom.”

“Yeah, you are! You tell her, aunt Kara!” Jamie says it as a joke, but Kara totally buys it, throwing her hair from her shoulders.

She comes closer, to see what you all are doing, when the front door opens again and Lena walks in.

“Oh, study session!” Kara says looking at the books, before turning to Lena in the front door, still doing her entire routine before entering the house. “Look love, the squad is studying again.”

“The squad?” Lena holds a laugh, ignoring Kara’s instant pout. “Please Kara, you’re a 48-year-old, you can’t say words like squad anymore.”

“You two are always clipping my wings.” She says making a huff sound and turns to Maya. “Hey, I heard you met Superkid the other day.”

“She actually saved me.” Maya says with the biggest smile. “She is so strong; she lifted a car!”

“Well, I mean, she has super strength. A car weighs the same amount as an apple for her. It’s not that big a deal.” Kara says with a little wink.

A little push.

“Yeah, I know. For her it might not feel like much, but for me it’s huge!” Maya smiles. “Especially because she saved my life.”

A little pull.

“Kara, stop disturbing the girls.” Lena comes to the table, sharing a little smile with everyone. “They don’t need to be distracted right now.” She looks down at your book realizing what it is that you’re studying. “Bien. Allons-y!”

A little push.

“Oh, come on, they look like they’ve been at it for hours.” Kara says, getting an agreeable look from Jamie. “Don’t you guys want to take a break and eat something?”

“I could take a break.” Maya says.

“And I could eat.” Jamie agrees.

You look down on your book. And then up at Lena’s raised eyebrow.

“Um, why don’t you go get something for you guys to eat?” You look at Jamie, who shakes her head agreeing, standing up right away. “I’m just going to look at this verb conjugation one more time.”

“Babe, come on. You got it. Five minutes break, it’s not gonna kill you.” Maya stands up too, but even though Jamie is already looking inside the fridge, she doesn’t leave your side.

“Yeah, kid. Go.” Kara smiles, and you nod. “Go! You got it!”

A little pull.

It’s this constant game of how high can you get, before seeing how far you can fall.

Jamie and Maya leave. French doesn’t. Kara brings you dinner in your bedroom because they don’t want to interrupt your studying. Lena kisses you goodnight and gives you fifteen more minutes before closing your book and going to bed.

Fifteen minutes goes out the window. And then thirty. An hour. Two hours. The entire night. Two minutes before the knock on your door, you lay on your bed. Blurry vision. Not a word in English on your brain anymore.

“Kid, time to get up.” Kara’s voice.

You count five minutes, and close your eyes.

“Come on, babygirl. School.” You hear Lena’s voice and you open your eyes again.

“D’accord. Cinq minutes.” You say getting a chuckle from Lena.

“Très bien, baby!”

This weirdly feels like a push and pull at the same time. You feel your stomach twisting inside you, and you get up, getting ready and going to the kitchen.

“Hey, little one.” You hear Kara’s sleepy voice, and she hugs you, kissing your temple. “You ok?”

“Yeah. Great!” You give her a fake smile. Eyes so tired you feel tears forming on the sides. Kara holds your face with one hand giving you one long inspecting look. Will she see right through you?

“Are you sure? You’re looking a little tired.” She says still holding your face.

“Then stop looking.” You mumble under your breath, but your words slur together and you’re not sure she understood you.

“Well, anyways-” Kara kisses your temple again, with a smile. “Good luck on the test today. We can go for donuts after, if everything goes well.”

If.

“Oh, yes. The exam.” Lena says, coming from behind you. “Text me at lunch break to tell me if it went well?”

If.

One big strong push.

“I-I have to go. Don’t want to get there late.” You throw your backpack over your shoulder. “I’ll fly.”

“Wait, did you eat?” Kara asks, with furrowed brows. Your stomach twists and turns inside you, but you’re not hungry, you’re nauseated. You walk to the fruit bow and pick up an apple. It’s not like picking up a car.

“I’ll eat on the way. See you guys later.” You make your way to the backyard door and leave, flying to the empty street behind your school.

You get there before anyone. And wait twenty minutes sitting on the ground outside, before Jamie arrives.

“Oh my God, you look like shit!” Jamie says with a smile and you roll your eyes.

“Yeah, well. You also don’t look-” You shrug before getting your words out. “Huh, whatever. Too tired.”

“Wow, you’re not even bantering.” She touches your forehead. “Are you sick?”

“Just didn’t sleep.” You sigh. “Ignore me.”

“Kinda hard, but I’ll try.”

You sit on your chair, relentless. Legs shaking, pencil banging on your table, eyes looking everywhere, but seeing nothing at the same time.

“Babe.” Maya calls you, and you look up. “You cool?” You agree with your head. “Did you drink coffee or something? You’re looking very high?”

“I’m ok.” You say, then acknowledge what she said. “YES! Coffee!” She jumps a little from your yell. “I had so much coffee today. But I’m cool.”

“Ok.” She sits behind you, and the teacher walks in ready to give out the exams. Maya squeezes your shoulder lightly. “You got this, ok? Just relax.”

You wish that could pull you back, but you’re already down in the end of the abyss. The whole way there, there’s no pulling you back now.

When the exam starts, your brain refuses to do the same. You just stare blankly down not seeing a word, not being able to move, think or breathe. This paralyzing fear, that any wrong move might ruin everything, takes over you. If you mess this up -or maybe it’s not a matter of if, but of when- when you mess this up, what will happen? Will they still try to pull you back? Will they still feel like you’re doing your best? Will they accept this failed version of yourself? Will they love it?

You lay your head down on your desk, and feel the painful weight of pressure, pressing down on you. Tears roll down your cheeks and you are unable to stop them, no matter how embarrassing this must look for you.

Jamie looks at you next to her. She mouths ‘are you ok?’. You want to scream that you’re not. That you are the opposite of ok. But no words come out. You hold the metal part of the desk, and she sees it bending, and sees how close it is from breaking. How close you are from breaking.

“Mrs. Arquette!” She calls, raising her hand. The teacher wavers, but comes when she sees her desperation. “She’s not feeling ok.”

“Miss Luthor-Danvers, what is going on? Do you need water?” The teacher kneels down next to you trying not to call attention.

You can’t talk. Your hands are shaking on the bent metal. Your tears are falling nonstop. And there’s absolutely no air on your lungs.

“Babe, babe. Talk to us.” Maya asks, stroking your back gently.

The entire class was silent for the test, but now you feel like you could hear a hair pin drop. They’re all staring at you. You’re lying on your desk, crying, while people around you make a big fuss about it.

“Can you get up, Miss Luthor-Danvers? Can you follow me?” The teacher asks again, but still radio silence from your end. You see her looking at Jamie, like asking what to do, since she knows you guys are cousins. “Can you help, Miss Olsen-Danvers?”

“I got her.” Jamie stands up, taking your hand out of the metal bar. She whispers in your ear. “You gotta help me, little-Danvers. I got you, but you need to help me a little.”

She makes you stand, and holds your waist, guiding you out of the classroom. Maya stands up too.

“Miss Rose, please finish your test. Her cousin is with her, she’ll be fine.” You hear the teacher’s voice, and Maya’s protests, but you get out of the classroom and that’s as far as you can walk. As soon as Jamie closes the door, you fall on the floor in a hyperventilating-cry, so desperate Jamie can only hug you.

“I’m here. Hey, I’m here. You’re ok.” Jamie whispers in your ear. “I’m going to call aunt Kara now, ok? Can I call her?”

You don’t answer, so she does as promised. It feels like it’s less than a minute later that Kara is kneeling down in front of you, taking you from Jamie’s arms, and wrapping you up in her arms instead. You hear Jamie telling her everything. Every single thing.

How upset you were over the test, and that wouldn’t let them stop studying until she got home the day before. That you didn’t sleep. That you were trembling, crying, breaking the desk. That she knows you aren’t exactly breathing or blinking. Then she said the actual words, so you don’t have to do it yourself.

“It’s the pressure, aunt Kara.” Jamie points out matter-of-factly. “She might have superpowers, but she is still a teenager. If my moms put this much pressure on me, like you do with her, I would have broken down years ago.”

And you are broken down. You are down the abyss. You are hopeless.

Kara flies you to L Corp. She marches down Lena’s office unceremoniously, holding you like a little baby, all curled up on her arms, sobbing on her suit.

“Baby, hey, can you talk to us?” Kara tries, sitting on the couch, and all you do is curl yourself more around her in a way you can’t even breathe. But that’s ok, because you feel like you’ve been holding your breath for a long time now.

“What’s going on?” Lena asks, stroking your back, back-and-forth in a soothing motion. That only makes you scream-cry harder, hugging Kara so tight, it probably hurts her already.

“She had a panic attack during the test.” Kara says and you blink at the realization. Oh, yes. This is it. That’s what this is.

You can’t see any of their faces, but you know they’re probably doing their weird telepathic communication thing, because Kara doesn’t have to say anything else for Lena to understand.

“Oh no, my baby.” She tries to pull you in, but you’re attached to Kara like a koala bear, and she’s not strong enough to move you. Kara tries pushing you into Lena’s lap, which only makes you hold her stronger.

Push. Pull. Pull. Push. It’s even physical now. The crying doesn’t stop even for a minute.

“Hey, hey.” Kara whispers on your forehead. “Momma is here, little one. I’ve got you. You’re safe. Just breathe for me. Can you do that? Can you breathe for mommy?”

Does Kara still love you? Does she still think this broken version of yourself is worth something? Is it worth her time?

“Ok, there you go.” She says when you take your head out of her chest. “You’re ok, my love. You’re safe. Can you tell me where you are?”

“L Corp.” You whisper, between your tears, and Kara agrees with her head.

“Very good. Now can you tell me something you can hear?”

“Your heartbeat.”

“That’s it, baby. You’re doing great.” She kisses your forehead. “Can you tell me something you can feel?” You feel Lena’s hand moving on your arms, shaking like yours.

“Fear.” It’s what you say, instead.

“Fear?” It's Lena who says it. “Of what?”

“Failing. Disappointing.” You say, and your breath gets stuck on your lungs again. “Not being loved if I’m not who you want me to be.”

It’s between tears that Lena says. “Please, let me hold you. Can mom hold you, babygirl?”

You stop clinging so hard to Kara, relaxing your arms so she knows it’s ok to move you. That’s what Kara does. She gently puts you on Lena’s lap, and you feel her arms wrapping around you, protectively, like she’s holding the most precious thing on her arms.

Does Lena still love you? Despite the disappointment of not having the perfect daughter, but rather this broken version of who you once were? Are you still worthy of her love?

“I promise you, you were never a failure. And you will never be one, my baby.” Lena speaks softly, in a tone you’re not very used to, reserved for only the sweetest moments you two share. “You are the single most important thing in the world for me, and I don’t care about your grades, or school, or science, or powers, nearly as much as I care for your well-being.” You feel her hands moving on your cheeks, cleaning your tears for you. “Who I want you to be is a healthy, happy teenage girl. And I apologize for pushing you to be anything else aside from that, and for pushing my own personal issues down on you. You, my sweet baby, don’t have to be anything aside from yourself for me, for us, to love you profoundly and entirely.”

You breathe. For the first time since the day started, you actually breathe. They do love you. They’re not going to stop loving you.

“Little one, we love you so much, I can’t even put into words how big and extreme this love is. You are everything we could possibly want and much, much more.” You feel a kiss on your forehead, and you smile a little from it. “Whatever it is that happens in your life, we will love you, and support you, ok?”

“Ok.” You look up to both of them, with big teary eyes, and you agree with your head, feeling your heart easing out on your chest. “I love you two very much.”

Kara throws her arms around you and Lena, and you’re sandwiched between your moms, listening to their ‘I love you’, and heartbeats, and sweet reassuring voices until you slowly fall asleep in their arms. You’re loved for who you are. That’s all you want to be. And you know, when you wake up again, you’ll be pulled out of the abyss.

Notes:

Thanks @youngjusticeimaginesus for this other incredible prompt. I love writing angst more than I should.

[uwuwriting]

Sakusa and Ushijima seeing their wife and child at their game.

Request: UM EXCUSE ME BUT DAD PRO PLAYERS ARE A MUST HAVE IN MY LIFE. I know you haven’t done anything with dads yet but maybe Skusa and Ushijima seeing their wife and child at one of their game. It’s a surprise though so they don’t expect it. THANK YOU!

OMG ANON THIS IS AN AMAZING ASK. I have another dad related ask which I’ll get to later this week I hope *or maybe next week*. I haven’t written Sakusa before so I’m sorry if he’s a little OOC. Hope you like it. Love yaa.💖💖💖

rules

warnings: fluff

characters are aged up 

Sakusa Kiyoomi

-How did you manage to end up with a child from this man?

-I mean mister germaphobe here actually slept with someone? And got her pregnant?

-In all seriousness he would do anything for you and his son. 

-From the moment he was born, Oomi was wrapped around his little finger. 

-Not being able to see you two as much as he wants leads to him being kind of a push over with both of you. 

-He will shower you with affection after sanitizing you, the house, your son and himself  giving you as any kisses as possible and then cuddling you during the night, holding you as close as possible.

-As for your son...he will be spoiled from sunrise to nightfall. 

-He wants a new volleyball even though he has 3? Done.

-He wants a toy that he saw at some random store? Done.

-You’ll have to talk to Oomi about it since you are starting to become the bad guy since you are the one who says NO every once in a while. 

-Poor man wants to make up for lost time. 

-Your son has gotten into volleyball of course, even at the early age of five he already trains with his dad whenever he can.

-So when Oomi has a game that isn’t in another country your son is ecstatic. 

- “Daddy’s game is in Tokyo this time! It’s not that far! Can we go please????”

-You wanted to go yourself, it had been ages since you had seen one of his games in person.

-So you agreed under the condition that he keep it a secret. 

- “Let it be a surprise for daddy hm?”

-Once Oomi left for the match you went to your bedroom and put one your Black Jackals n. 15 jersey.

-Then you went to your son’s room finding him struggling to put on his makeshift MSBY 15 jersey that his dad bought him for Christmas.

-You helped him and you were out the door in no time. 

-Entering the gym you took your seats in the bleachers and waited for the match to begin. 

-Usually you would text or call Sakusa to wish him good luck but not this time.

-And boy did it affect him. 

-He was so grumpy during warm up until he heard a very familiar squeal when they stepped on the court and were getting into receiving position. 

-Looking at the bleachers he immediately spotted you, holding your son in your arms both of you adorning his number. 

-He was filled with so much determination and giddiness that it was a shocker to Atsumu who saw his teammate smile for the first time. 

-After a successful game, he will rush home accompanied by the two of you, listening to his son rambling on about what he saw and what he wanted to learn. 

-He will shower doing his usual routine of sanitizing and cleansing his skin from germs with the power of the gods before scooping both of you up and cuddling you on the couch. 

-He thanks you for going to his game because you pushed him to give his all. 

-Might promise his son to take him to his practice the next day.

Ushijima Wakatoshi

-Our baby Toshi here has wanted to start a family with you for so long. 

-Since you graduated high school and moved in together to be exact.

-He knows however that his occupation keeps him away from home a lot and he wouldn’t want to raise a child who doesn’t know him. 

-He wants to be there for everything. 

-So when you announce a few years later that you’re pregnant he is almost panicking. 

-He has to be here for everything. 

-You sit down and talk things through agreeing and making compromises, finally getting to the exciting part that was that you were having a baby!!

-Fast forward five years later and now you are a mother of two. 

-A five year old boy who has you hair and his eyes.

-And a three year old girl who has his hair and your eyes. 

-They are literally a mix match result of the both of you. 

-Despite their age they are both crazy over volleyball, practicing with their dad when he doesn’t have practice and even attending his practices running around catching balls. 

-They are adorable to say the least. 

-Toshi is there for the majority of the important moments and he spends all his free time with them, trying to make up for lost time. 

-They always accompany you to the airport to say goodbye no matter the time and are always with you to meet him when he comes back. 

-Facetime before going to bed is a must if you want them to sleep in their beds, otherwise they’ll take over your bed and basically kick you out. 

- “We didn’t talk to daddy!” your daughter would say with a pout that looked too much like your own. 

- “Yeah and now you lose bed privileges.” your son would add before hopping onto the bed. 

-At first you thought they were kidding but when they wouldn’t budge you had to call Wakatoshi and complain about your kids’ bullying. 

-He would of course laugh at first and then ask to see them. 

-So yeah.. they are overly attached to him.

-It makes you jealous at times. 

-So when a game was close to your house the kids started acting more like angels than ever. 

-They would do whatever you wanted and not question you. 

-That’s how you knew that they wanted to go to the game. 

-You see your kids had two modes 1) I’ll help you drive mom crazy and 2) don’t you dare breath in my direction. 

-So when they both wanted the same thing mode n. 1 is in constant affect and you’re kinda scared of how easily they work together when they want to. 

-You surprise them with shirts with their dad’s jersey number as you yourself are wearing one of his older jerseys. 

-Now your daughter prefers your shirt and will ask if there’s another one which she can wear as a dress but sadly there isn’t (she would also look like a potato sack with Ushijima’s huge shirt one her).

-When you get to your seats the match is starting and your son is scanning the other team as they serve. 

-Both Ushijima children follow the ball with such concentration like wow. 

-Then the ball falls on the opposite side and dad Ushijima is going for a serve. 

-Both of them are screaming/chanting for their dad and you were certain that they were they were the loudest in the gym. 

-Ushijima looks at them( he spots them immediately no matter where he is )and gives them a soft smile, his whole body swelling with bride and fuzziness. 

-The whole game continues with the two of them cheering and you laughing next to them as you see how terrified some of the opponents are. 

-True Ushijima strength right here. 

-After the game its ice cream and a family outing because he is just so happy and proud he could combust. 

TAG TEAM AY:

@brattyquirks​  @the-arcana-fan-fic​ @angelwritings​

[agentsoftie]

marry me? — spencer reid | ch.1

— false engagements

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summary: the one where you propose to your brothers girlfriend for him, and your boyfriend just happens to witness it

spencer r & fem! reader : 1.5k

warnings: pure fluff and confusion

authors note: a series! guys! ahh! omg! i can’t believe it! i’ll try to upload once a week with this series my loves! but ahhhh, i can’t believe it! hope you guys like this first chapter! also, thanks @feverdreamreid for reviewing this. love you kenna <3

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“Y/N, Y/N, could you come here real quick?” Mark nagged.

You and your brother, Mark, were both forced to go to a family reunion. And by forced I mean, they were forced to bring their partners. Mark and Y/N tried to stay away from family reunions, especially when it means coming with their partners. Because every time they came with them, the baby pictures and the awkward stories always came.

“What do you want Mark?” You sneered as you followed him into the empty room. 

“Okay, woah, um, I’m gonna propose to Christy tonight ... I think.” 

You were amused, “What? Oh my gosh! Do you have a ring? When did you know? Am I gonna have a sister-in-law?”

“Calm down Y/N,” he hushed while looking out the door to make sure no one heard. “To answer your questions, yes, I do have the ring on me, and no you can’t see it. And I just knew one night that I loved her and wanted to spend the rest of my life with her.”

“Mark! That’s spectacular! The only thing, can you wait for Spencer to come?”

“Y/N, I’m not gonna wait for your boyfriend to come and just so he can watch me either get a wife or be rejected. Plus who knows if he’s even gonna show?”

“Hey, okay, that’s kinda harsh. You know Spencer with his job! He travels a lot! It’s part of his work! He really does care for me you know. And, if you would bother to talk to him like one-on-one without me being there, you might actually become friends.” You said, defending Spencer. Good thing he wasn’t here yet, or else he would never let go of this.

“Okay well, I haven’t even proposed to her so whatever.”

“Speaking of that, you got something planned?”

“Well um,-” He was cut off by Christy walking in.

 “Oh, there you two are! I was looking all around! Now come on,” she chirped while grabbing both of our hands. “Nana Rose found some new pictures!” And you both looked at each other with the same look you do every time they invite you over for a reunion.

Quickly letting go you rushed into the kitchen to pour yourself some wine. And by some, I mean lots. Quickly chugging it down, you noticed that people were gathering around the fireplace and so to find out why you quickly put your glass down and went over there. And to your surprise, there was Mark, in the middle of the living room on one knee.

A couple of people around him murmured some things, but he, on the other hand, couldn’t say anything.

“I- Christy um- I’ve- um-” He stuttered. It was almost as if he couldn’t move. 

“Wow okay, I’m doing this.” You muttered under your breath while tapping on his shoulder to signal him to get up.

“Christy,” you said getting down on one knee. “Imagine as if I’m Mark right now, it will make things much easier, trust me. Christy, ever since the first time I met you and your beautiful blue eyes, I could t get you off my mind. Even if it took me 5 months to admit that I liked you, I’m glad I did. Because every day waking up to you, is a day I leave the house with a smile on my face. And frankly Chris, I like that feeling! And I want to feel it every day! So will you ... Christy Brie ... Marry me?”

“Yes ... Yes! Yes! Yes! Of course, I will! Mark, I love you!” She cheered as he quickly ran and hugged Mark. You got up and looked around, and saw him. Your boyfriend, Spencer. Standing in awe and amusement.

“I can explain.” You said as you went up to him.

“Oh I’m sure you can,” he smirked while trying to hide his laughter.

Mark and Christy came over right after and immediately went for a hug. “Oh Y/N I love you so much! I would marry you right on the spot if you didn’t have a boyfriend!” Mark nudged her a little, “oh yes and I wasn’t getting married!”

“Y/N/N how did you know what to say?” He asked. 

“Mark, every time we’re together, all you do is talk about her. That’s all you do.” You deadpanned.

At this time, Christy had just hugged Spencer, “Spencer, I can imagine the shock on your face coming in, I’m so sorry if you felt any discomfort. I promise I’m not trying to get with your girlfriend.” 

“Christy, It’s fine don’t worry. All that matters is that you, Y/N, and Mark are happy.” He kept his hands in his pockets, slowly jumping up and down, with a very mediocre expression on his face. You could tell he wasn’t uncomfortable, more just tired. Trying not to say that many words. His hair was still a little messy, and his socks were mismatched. It had looked like he just came from work since he was still wearing the suit he had left the house in.

Spencer and you had been dating for 3 years now. You moved in after the second though. He thought that it would make things easier on both of your ends. Not having to drive almost an hour to see each other. So you moved in with him (saying he had to go to work at a moment’s notice). Of course, you both did fight sometimes … It’s completely normal. No couple would never fight. Not even the best of them.

Although, sometimes … Most of the time, it would be about his work. You knew of course that his work was important. But sometimes even that couldn’t cut it. One time, you got vigorously mad at him when he missed a date. Of course, it wouldn’t make sense to get into an argument over something so small, but he had been promising you about this date for over two months. And this time, you weren’t gonna take any of his “oh I got stuck in work” or “I just got too caught up in a lot of paperwork”.

You had both seated for dinner now, all of you had. Your mom and aunt had just brought the warm food in, and you couldn’t wait to dive in. 

“So, Mark,” my mother asked, “When are you guys getting married?”

“Mom,” he chuckled, “We just got engaged. We haven’t had enough time to talk about it.” 

“Sure, sure.” She said in defeat. “Well, at least now I’ll have another daughter! You know how much your dad and I wanted girls! But, we got stuck with you and your brother Luke instead. Thankfully we had Y/N after. But even she left us. Promise you won’t leave me, Christy. Promise me.” 

“Mom!” Mark and you both yelled in unison, causing everyone to laugh a little. 

“I promise that I’m never going to leave you, Lucy,” Christy said chuckling. 

“And Spencer now that Mark and Christy are off the market, when will you be proposing to my dear- dear Y/N?”

“Mom!” You yelled, jumping up slightly. 

“I- um-” he stuttered. 

You grabbed his hand from underneath the table. “You, you can’t ask that question to people. Especially my boyfriend!” You yelled in a hushed whisper voice. 

“Oh, you can’t ask anything nowadays! Did you know that your father and I got married when we were only 25!”

“Mmm, okay well Mark’s almost 30, so nag him instead of me.” 

“Okay, okay, no more fighting, I’m hungry. So can we eat?” Mark asked.

 “Let’s eat!” Your mom said.

It was around 10 pm now, and you had just gotten home. Deciding to leave early, and a good thing too, because right after you left you got a text from Mark saying “SOS, Nana’s telling stories! Please save me!!!!”

“Okay,” you said getting into your bed, “I should probably explain what happened back there. If the whole proposal thing.”

“I think I already know what happened, but go ahead.” He spoke as he turned on his alarms for the morning. He didn’t really need it, but you did so he always put them on. 

“Okay so, Mark had told me that he wanted to propose and I was like ‘What that’s amazing!’ and he’s like ‘Yeah, I know’ and so he does it but he can’t say anything. So me being the amazing and incredible little sister I am, got down on one knee for his girlfriend and proposed to her for him.”

He simply just laughed. 

Laughed.

That’s all he did.

“Hey! You could at least say ‘I’m proud of you, or something! It’s not that difficult you know.”

“Y/N, Y/N calm down. You know I love you. And I’m really happy you did that for your brother … Happy now?”

“Whatever,” you mumbled while snuggling into him. “I’m tired, so goodnight.”

He kissed your forehead before turning off the lamp. Quickly, he made sure that you were asleep. He turned the lights on and then off 4 times to make sure you had no reaction, and then he called his friend.

“Derek, hey,” he whispered, while looking at you for any sign of movement, “think I’m finally ready … I wanna marry her.”

[petri808]

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

Inukag AU

There was a genuine smile on Kagome’s face as she sat on her bed quietly while her family and friends did what they could to try and jog her memory. It was about 3 months since the accident and today the bed was littered with photo albums, old letters, newspapers from her college days that Sango had saved, or her mother pulled from her old bedroom, really anything they could think of to provide visuals. She didn’t want them to feel bad for her predicament, so thought it best to go along with it. They probably knew— she didn’t recognize any of it but bless them for playing along as she nodded or chuckled at appropriate times or patiently waited as she stared at certain items longer than she should have. Because Kagome really wanted to remember.

But in reality, all the words and images were viewed through a strangers lens. Yes, she recognized certain people, but not everyone or the situation in the photos. For Kagome, her last recollections end shortly after graduating college. She knew Sango since they’d been friends, but barely remembered Miroku. To her Miroku was still the boyfriend of less than a year, not a husband and certainly not a father to the couples 1 year old twin girls. Sango was her best friend, so to not remember the wedding or the birth of the twins who based on the photos were precious to her... hurt. There she was in those pictures holding one newborn in each arm, beaming at becoming an aunty, and no recollection of it.

“Tomorrow is the weekend, so we can video chat with Sota,” Mrs. Higurashi reminded her daughter. “I’ve been keeping him updated by text.”

“Where is he again?” Kagome asked.

“In Hawaii, at the University of Hilo.”

“Oh... right,” Kagome chuckled. “I forgot.”

“That’s okay, dear. Sota is in his senior year now and will be coming home in December after graduation.”

“I hope I’m well enough to fly there for the graduation.”

“I think you will be,” her mother smiled softly. “There’s always hope.”

Yeah... hope. It was the only thing keeping Kagome from breaking down. Each night as she drifted to sleep, she’d remind herself of the temporary nature of her condition. Truth or not, it was worth clinging to. Earlier her mother told her of how she’d flown to Hawaii to help Sota settle into his dorm. As the big sister, she was so proud of him, but again Kagome had no recollection of this event and only Hawaiian vacation pictures to prove its truth. Still, she was happy that her brother had grown up so much. The sense of pride she must have felt at the time was renewed in the new knowledge.

She didn’t remember a lot, but there were moments that brought tears to her eyes for more than one reason. Take the other day when Sango and Miroku brought the twins for a visit. The children remembered their Aunty Kagome and quickly reached out with their small hands to her. It brought out tears from the happy emotions such adorable faces could provoke in anyone, yet also tears of frustration for not knowing them at all. Clearly, they loved her, and she wanted to love them too. Bless them, showing concern for her tears, reaching out to Kagome’s face as if to soothe the adult. So, realizing her effect, she quickly smiled and told them she was just happy to see them.

“It’s still a little weird,” Kagome confided to Sango one day, “because my only memory of Miroku is of an annoying guy following you around while still checking out other girls.”

Sango laughed, “he still an annoying guy at times, but it’s true, he has settled down since those days.”

“What was it that finally changed your mind about Miroku?”

“Oh, um actually we’d had a fight... a really big fight over his behavior and I put my foot down. It was me or them because I wasn’t gonna put up with it anymore. I guess the proverbial slap to his face woke him up.”

Kagome chuckled. “It does appear to have worked. But it was obvious how much he loved you despite the stupid things he did.”

Sango nodded. “True. If I didn’t think so too, I would have just walked away and not looked back. Sometimes guys literally need a harsh wake up a call to realize what they’re about to lose.”

That made Kagome think about the supposed fight with Inuyasha on the night of her accident, because it resembled the predicament Sango went through. She frowned. “Why are guys like that?”

Sango shrugged. “If we ever found an answer to that question, we’d be rich.”

Kagome snorted a laugh. “Agreed. We could make money writing self-help books.”

The girls shared a laugh before moving on to other subjects, but as the day grew late, Kagome suddenly sank down on the bed. There was a question she’d been wanting to ask, and though Inuyasha would be the better one to ask, he was still a strangers in her eyes. At least with Sango, she knew she could trust her friend to tell her the truth.

“Before you go, Sango, I have something to ask about.”

“Sure, what is it?”

“Could you tell me how I met Inuyasha? Tell me what you know about our relationship?”

Sango’s eyebrows raised in surprise. “Hasn’t Inu told you anything?”

Kagome looked down. “He has told me things, but I— I still don’t know if I should trust him. I mean... I know my mom loves him and that tells me a lot, but it doesn’t change the fact he’s just a stranger at this point for me— it’s,” she shrugged, “awkward.”

“Oh... Guess I never thought of it that way.” Sango reached out and took her Kagome’s hand. “I’d be happy to answer your questions. It’s okay that it’s awkward, that’s understandable so don’t push yourself to accept things just to accept them, but even I would agree with your mom, he’s probably told you the truth.”

“You think so?”

Sango squeezed her friends hand and chuckled. “Yeah. I didn’t like him at first, but the guy really grew on me. Try it, test me,” she coaxed Kagome. “Ask me about something he told you and let’s see if my answers are the same.”

Kagome smiled and sat back for a moment in thought. “What’s something questionable...” she tapped her chin. “The first date he took me on was to a ramen restaurant. Which is not very romantic if you’re trying to woo someone. So, it sounds true and preposterous at the same time. He said he was so nervous that he accidentally spilled a drink on me. I wondered if he told me that just to be funny and endearing, but it never actually happened.”

“Oh,” Sango burst out laughing, “it definitely did happen! You’d told him to pick somewhere he loved to go and Inu’s favorite meal is ramen, so that’s what he picked. And the drink. It was a pink cocktail that stained your dress. You were so annoyed!” She giggled again. “But it was obvious how nervous he was, and I remember how you told me it was cute to see him get all flustered.”

“Oh, wow,” Kagome laughed too. “I guess I have to believe it now. Tell me more.”

“Hmm,” Sango pondered. “He was so nervous to even ask you out, Miroku had to ask you for him.”

“What?!” Kagome gasped and snorted a laugh. “And I’d still said yes?!”

“Yeah, because by then you liked him too. It took... if I remember correctly a year of interactions just for him to gain that much courage.” At that point Sango’s voice quieted. “I don’t know if he’s told you this part yet but, Inu was a broken person when you’d first met.”

“No, he hasn’t.” Kagome leaned forward with interest. “What do you mean?”

“At the time he’d already been broken up with Kikyo for 4 or 5 years I think, but he hadn’t fully moved on yet. I can’t say he still loved her. I think it was more just loneliness. His mother died when he was young as well. So, I think the combination of losing the two most important women in his life left him depressed.”

“Wow...”

“I knew him as Miroku’s brooding coworker, how my husband tolerated that I have no idea, but they were close friends. When we’d introduced you to him, things slowly began to change. You almost made it a mission to help him get out of it.” Sango chuckled lightly. “You know how you are, always trying to help people. At first, Inu resisted, but you didn’t let up and slowly but surely broke through his defenses. He became a puppy dog around you, totally head over heels in love.” She smiled. “It was fun and so cute for us to watch it all happen.”

“I wish I remembered any of this,” Kagome sighed.

“You will. You’ve never been a quitter, so I truly believe you will get your memory back.”

“Thanks, Sango. All of your guys help really means a lot to me.”

Sango reached out and hugged her friend. “I know you’d do the same for me.” She sat back in her chair. “It’s tough now, and I know you described Inuyasha as a stranger, but treat it as if you’re dating a new guy with all those heart racing, excitements that come with it. I see how you look at him.” She teased. “You must at least thinks he’s cute?”

Kagomes cheeks flushed pink. “Is it that obvious?”

“Oh, yeah,” Sango giggled and squeezed her friends hand. “If all you do is focus on this situation, you won’t start to live again. They’re releasing you to go home in a couple weeks, so have a little fun with him. Create some new memories.”

“Maybe you’re right... maybe I will try to think about it that way.” Kagome tips her head slightly. “It is kinda fun to feel those giddy girly emotions when I see him.”

Speaking of. The girls hear a knock at the door and turn to see Inuyasha walking in with a bouquet of flowers and a bag of take-out food. “Hey gorgeous and Sango.”

It set off another rush of heat to Kagome’s face. “Hi,” she squeaked out.

“I’ll leave you two alone,” Sango stood up with a wink. “See you tomorrow.” She hugged her best friend and left the room.

Inuyasha took the seat beside Kagome and handed her the flowers. “How are you feeling today?”

“Mmm, it was good chatting with Sango.” She held the flowers up to her nose to smell them while keeping her eyes on him. “Thank you for the flowers, they’re beautiful.”

“Beautiful women deserve beautiful flowers,” he smiled back and held up a bag. “Hope you’re hungry. I brought dinner since hospital food must be getting boring by now.”

“Aww, that’s thoughtful of you, cause yes,” Kagome sighed, “it is.”

Inuyasha chuckled, then pulled out the containers of food. He handed Kagome a plate. “It’s salmon nitsuke.”

“Oh, yes!” Kagome almost moaned in delight as she opened the container and surveyed the food. “And it smells so delicious!” But before Inuyasha opened his container. “Wait! Let me guess what you got.”

“Okay?” Inuyasha chuckled.

“Ramen.”

Inuyasha’s eyes widened. “How?!”

Kagome giggled. “Sango told me it was your favorite.”

To her guessing was funny, but she didn’t expect the pained expression that instantly fell over Inuyasha’s face. It didn’t take her long to realize. “Oh my, I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to make you think I got my memory back!”

“I-It’s okay, really,” he tried to reassure her. Yes, it hurt, but, “it’s nice to see you smiling and happy.”

“Are you sure? I’m really sorry, I wasn’t thinking.”

“Kagome, it’s really okay.” He smiled with eyes clouded over. “You’ve been... stand-offish till now, so it makes me feel a lot better that you’re comfortable enough to joke with me again.”

“Yeah... about that... I’ve been talking with Sango and she’s been encouraging me to give you a chance. I do want... to take her advice, but...” her voice softened, “could I be honest with you?”

“Of course.”

“For me, this is all like meeting a new guy and, you know, the whole crush, dating steps, and such whereas for you, it’s different and must be frustrating.”

“If I’m being honest, yeah,” Inuyasha scratched his head, “it is, but I don’t know, also a bit exciting too, like a challenge, but a fun one if that makes any sense. I get to date you all over again— I-I mean if you’ll let me.”

“They’re releasing me soon, so I think...” Kagome’s cheeks flushed. “I’d love to go out on a date with you Inuyasha.”

“Whoo Hoo!” He pumped his fists in the air. “I feel like a teenager again,” Inuyasha laughed.

At that, Kagome giggled, her mood significantly lightened, and a weight lifted. It was the first step towards a sense of normalcy. Forget the fact she couldn’t remember a chunk of her past and live in the now where a handsome hanyo sat waiting.

[starrybethany]

Leon Draisaitl: Glorious by Macklemore

Word count: 3004

Music video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7OrLroFa0AI

Lyrics link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSFz3NRSSc4

You know I'm back like I never left

Another sprint, another step

Another day, another breath

I take a deep breath, pushing open the door to the small building that was once my everything. Now, my company is spread across the continent in multiple stores. My heels click softly on the tile that I spent two hours picking out as I step inside the building, watching as everyone slowly turns to see who entered.

“Boss, we heard you were coming back but we just didn’t know when!” Veronica, my old assistant and closest friend here in Edmonton, pulls me into a tight hug.

I’m surprised by the kind greeting. Contact with all of the employees here in Edmonton fell apart except for being FaceBook friends when I opened the headquarters in Miami and started working out of there, so I just assumed they didn’t like me anymore.

And they aren’t the only people that I assumed didn’t want to speak to me anymore.

Been chasing dreams, but I never slept

I got a new attitude and a lease on life

And some peace of mind

“So to recap, we’re moving the headquarters from Miami back to Edmonton, keeping this store open to advertise it as our original location, and we’re opening the branch in Winnipeg to become the seventy sixth branch. Any questions?” I ask, scanning the room before ending the meeting.

The employees converse amongst each other as they exit the room and I stack my papers up, letting out a sigh of confidence. I’m very excited for this new step in my career, and I’m even more excited to be back in my home city of Edmonton.

A loud squeal snaps me out of my thoughts and I look up to see Veronica stepping forward to wrap me up in a large hug.

“You did so good, I’m so proud of you! Wow, you’ve really changed a lot in four years- but in a good way. You just look so happy and confident in what you’re doing now,” she smiles widely, leaning back against the table. “So, is there a boyfriend making you happy too?”

I chuckle. Same old Veronica. “Nope, no boyfriend. I’m too busy for a boyfriend.”

“I’m pretty sure you used that excuse four years ago too and someone convinced you otherwise,” she hints cheekily.

“Get back to work, Veronica.”

Seek and I find I can sleep when I die

Wanna piece of the pie, grab the keys to the ride

And shit I'm straight

“Hey boss, we’re heading out. Do you want us to lock up or anything?” One of my employees asks, sticking his head in my doorway.

“No, it’s fine. Have a good night,” I bid, not looking up from my papers.

“You too. Don’t stay here too late.”

I nod but don’t respond, trying to figure out the numbers in my head.

It’s only four hours later when I realize that it’s one o’clock in the morning and that I should probably leave to get some sleep.

I'm on my wave, I'm on my wave

Get out my wake, I'm running late, what can I say?

Well apparently I needed more sleep than what I got because I slept past my alarm and now I’m running late on my second week back. I need to work out more often because I’m out of breath just from running down the street towards my office. I figured it would be faster than trying to drive through the hecticness of Edmonton traffic.

I’m trying to avoid the deep cracks in the sidewalk and before I know it I’m running into a hard body, about to fall over until an arm reaches out and grabs my own.

“I’m so sorry!” We exclaim at the same time.

I look up at the sound of the familiar voice, eyes bulging when I see it’s the one who was once the love of my life. I watch as Leon drags his eyes up from the concrete. His eyes light up when he recognizes me and I swallow to keep my heart inside of my body.

“Y/N, you’re back.”

I heard you die twice, once when they bury you in the grave

And the second time is the last time that somebody mentions your name

So when I leave here on this earth, did I take more than I gave?

Did I look out for the people or did I do it all for fame?

“Yeah, um, we’re moving back to uh, Edmonton,” I stutter through my words, just like I did when I first met Leon. He made me so nervous back then but he was so patient with me and listened carefully to every word, reassuring my many apologies. I guess he still makes me nervous.

“How is your empire?” He asks, cocking his head to the side.

I laugh. He always referred to my company as my empire, knowing the potential that both it and I have. I guess he never considered that the potential would have to cause me to move.

“It’s good, uh,” I smile brightly at the memory of the other day, “I met with a manufacturer the other day and they already knew my name. Like I normally have to introduce myself, you know? But he was just like, “Hey, Y/N Y/L/N, it’s great to see you!” And it’s so cool to think that I have a legacy like that. And then he said that his daughter loved my bracelets so I had to give her the flower one that all of the preteen girls love. He said she would love it.”

I smile at the memory and snap out of my rambling, my eyes shifting back over to Leon’s. He gives me the admiring smile he always gives me when I talk about my business- he used to say it’s because I’m so passionate about it and it makes him even more attracted to me.

And from this smile, I’m assuming it still does.

Legend it's exodus searching for euphoria

Trudging through the mud to find the present, no ignoring us

Got 20,000 deep off in the street like we some warriors

My mama told me never bow your head, woo!

“So, uh, how’s hockey?” I question, trying to get the topic off of me.

“It’s good. Not as good as when you were in the stands,” he shrugs nonchantalty but my heart beats rapidly at the remark.

I can’t help but study him. His hair’s gotten longer since the last time I saw him and I have to hold back my giggle. I always used to beg him to grow his hair out but he would protest- looks like he finally complied as soon as I left. His green eyes sparkle in the sunlight and my mind flashes back to when he used to hold me in his arms, those eyes staring into my own as we would talk about our hopes and dreams.

God, all I want to do right now is pull him into me by the collar and kiss him.

I feel glorious, glorious

Got a chance to start again

I was born for this, born for this

My phone vibrates in my hand and we snap out of our little staring contest. I watch as Leon’s eyes snap to the device in distaste and I check to see that it’s Veronica wondering where I am. I send her back a quick text with a sigh and then look up to see Leon already watching me.

I can’t help but blush, tucking a piece of hair behind my ear.

“I should probably go,” I state.

“Yeah, you have an empire to run,” he says proudly, stepping to the side and motioning me past him. I smile shyly, moving past him reluctantly. Is this really it? Are we going to reunite just to leave each other so suddenly? “Oh, Y/N.” I turn around, raising my eyebrows in question. “We should go out for dinner sometime. Fully catch up and everything.”

I nod, quietly answering, “I’d like that.”

“Cool, me too. I’ll text you.”

I nod once more, turning around and doing my best not to dance until I turn the corner and I’m out of his sight. I missed Edmonton a lot- I missed my family, my friends, my employees, the city, but the thing, or person, that I missed the most was Leon.

And now I’m getting it all back, but mostly importantly, I’m getting the love of my life back.

It's who I am, how could I forget?

I made it through the darkest part of the night

“So your stocks took a sharp dip just before you moved the headquarters to Miami.” I remember that- that was the first and last time I cried in Leon’s arms. I usually hold everything in, I like to leave the stress of work at the office but I just couldn’t that night. I already wasn’t sure if I should be moving or not and that just seemed like a sign.

I can still remember the shock on Leon’s face as I fell into his grip, holding onto his sweater tighter than I’ve ever held on before.

“Why was that?”

I make eye contact with the local manufacturer. It’s very important to me to find work within the community so I can publicize that on my products.

“The stocks went down because it was in the summer when we moved the headquarters. There aren’t a lot of holidays in the summer where jewelry is wanted so our stock always tends to go down in the summer months. We’re currently working on incentives to change that,” I inform him.

And now I'll see the sunrise

Now I feel glorious, glorious

I feel glorious, glorious

I'm feeling glorious

We make small chat as we walk out of the conference room towards the lobby of the building. I glance towards Veronica at reception to see a mischievous twinkle in her eye and give her a questioning look but brush her off, returning my attention to the manufacturer.

“And we’re currently working on 100% recycable jewelry-”I cut myself off as soon as I see him. You can always tell when Leon’s in a room.

He’s sitting in one of the chairs, practically looking like a giant in the tiny piece of furniture. He’s playing with his hands and by the time we make eye contact, his eyes are already on me. The sunlight streams into the room through the window behind him, giving him a golden glow.

I clear my throat, ignoring the inquisitive look the manufacturer’s giving me to continue my sentence.

“100% recyclable jewelry that will probably come early next year.”

“That sounds great, my granddaughter loves that sort of stuff,” he responds.

“Yeah? I’ll be sure to send you a bracelet just for her,” I smile politely, bidding him goodbye as he leaves.

Before I can even greet Leon he’s at my side. “Should you just be giving stuff out for free? I don’t think that’s how empires work.”

I can’t help but snort out a laugh at his dorky joke. “What are you doing here, Leon?”

“I texted you yesterday but you didn’t respond.”

“I didn’t?” My eyes widen. I pull out my phone to show that I never pressed ‘send’ on the text I meant to send back.

The hockey player laughs. “Typical.”

I push his shoulder jokingly.

“Come on, I have something to show you,” he urges, grabbing my wrist.

“Hold all of my calls for the rest of the day, Veronica,” I call out as he pulls me out the door.

“You got it!”

The crib looking Victorian (oh yes it is)

You know that we been going in

Since we hopped out that DeLorean (DeLorean, yeah we win)

“Where did you find this house?” I gasp in disbelief, slamming the passenger’s door shut as I gape up at the beautiful house.

“You’re supposed to wait and let me open your door,” he whines, stepping out of the driver’s seat. I follow him up to the house, watching as he opens the front door.

“Look at how beautiful this hardwood is,” I gush, walking slowly throughout the house. He follows me from a few feet back, admiring me as I touch all of the unique features of the house. “Seriously, Leon, where did you find this house?”

“Called a realtor, or two.” Then he lowers his volume to a level he probably thinks I can’t hear, “Or five.” Then he raises it again. “Asked if they knew a good victorian house for sale. And it has to be victorian.”

I laugh at that. He would always make fun of me for how in awe I was at The Addams Family’s house. But I’ve wanted a large Victorian house to raise my kids and dogs in.

“Is it for sale?” I question, looking back at my former lover. He already knows why I’m asking.

“You may have some competition.”

“Oh yeah? I can probably beat them,” I state confidently, crossing my arms.

“I don’t think you can.”

“Yeah? Why not?” I raise my eyebrows.

He gives me a cheeky smile. “Because it’s me.”

En garde, things are just things

They don't make you who you are

Can't pack up a U-Haul and take it with you when you're gone

“Leon!” I whine, stomping my foot like a two year old. “Why would you show me this house if you’ve already wanted to buy it?”

“I have a plan,” he assures me, rushing forward to grab my hands. “You’ve moved back to Edmonton for good, right?”

I nod.

“And obviously there’s still romantic feelings and chemistry between us,” he starts.

I look down at the floor shyly, not knowing where he’s going with this. His fingers lift my chin up to meet his gaze again and he continues. “And the place you’re renting now, it came fully furnished, right?”

“How do you know that?” I ask.

“Please, you think Veronica would not drop hints to me while I was waiting on you for twenty minutes?”

“You were waiting for twenty minutes?”

“That’s besides the point,” he avoids my question, “This is the perfect house for us. Four bedrooms, the master bedroom on the main floor so we can get funky while the kids are in bed-”I laugh while he wiggles his eyebrows-”A nice office so that you can work from home if you want to. And have you seen the backyard?” He pulls me over to the kitchen window so we can see the luscious grass. “That’s a backyard made for an ice rink, babe. Come on, move in here with me.”

We posted on the porch, my family's glasses to the stars

My grandma smiling down on me like woo, that boy got bars

Okay, okay, yes I do

I said amen and hallelujah, let me testify too

I watch as he locks the front door, wrapping an arm around my waist.

“Just think, baby, the next time you’re going to be here it’s going to be our house. With you and me.”

“You and me,” I repeat softly.

Another morning, a morning, don't let self get in my way

I got my breath, I got my faith and I remember why I came

“Good morning,” I greet, stepping into the office early like I do every morning so Veronica can fill me in on what’s going on during the day. “What’s going on, Veronica?”

“So you’re just going to be filling out forms until nine, then you have a meeting with Mr. Waterson until ten thirty-””Can that be rescheduled?” I request softly. My assistant gives me an odd look but nods. Usually I refuse to be the one rescheduling or cancelling- I think it’s rude, but today I woke up feeling less confident than normal and couldn’t bear to look myself in the mirror.

“You have a meeting with Isabelle at one thirty-”The beautiful, young, talented designer? No way I can handle that today. “Reschedule that one too. I’m going to go start on paperwork, please don’t bother me unless you absolutely need me.”

I avoid eye contact as I make my way to my office, hoping to distract myself with my work.

I feel glorious, glorious

Got a chance to start again

I was born for this, born for this

“Am I absolutely needed?” I snap, looking up as my office door is opened. My boyfriend closes the door behind him, eyes widening from my harsh tone.

I sigh, looking back down at the paperwork.

He quietly takes a seat in one of the chairs in front of my desk, leaning forward and waiting for me to say something. It’s always pissed me off yet left me in awe at how well he knows me- he knows that if he confronts me I’ll immediately get defensive. He just needs to wait for me to put my guard down more.

And he gets it when I lean back in my chair, meeting his eyes.

“Do you want to explain why I got a call from your assistant saying that you’re in a mood today?” He questions softly.

“Because she’s a snitch?”

He laughs at that but leans back in the chair, giving me a look to talk.

I look down at my desk, murmuring, “It’s just a low confidence day, I guess.”

My eyes move back up in surprise to see him pointing an accusing finger at me. “You stop being mean to my girlfriend right now!”

“Leon, what are you doing?” I giggle.

“I’m serious, if you keep telling her that she’s not beautiful and smart I will not hesitate to fuck you up!”

I laugh at that, laughing even harder when he tugs me up and out of my chair. “Now you say it with me ‘I was born to be a boss ass bitch.’”

“Leon-””Say it with me!”

“I was born to be a boss ass bitch!” We scream together.

It's who I am, how could I forget?

I made it through the darkest part of the night

And now I see the sunrise

“You created a company from the bottom, you sell bracelets and necklaces and earrings- and hell, 100% recyclable jewelry,” Leon claps like I just found the cure to cancer. “A beautiful woman who cares about the environment. You shouldn’t be here, you should be-”He grabs me by the waist, placing me gently on my desk.

“What are you doing, Leon?” I squeal.

“Stand up,” he urges.

I stand up and for the first time ever, I’m taller than him.

“You should be up there! Look at you, a magnificent woman on the pedestal that she deserves.”

Now I feel glorious, glorious

I feel glorious, glorious

We gon' be alright, put that on my life

When I open my eyes, hope I see you shine

“Do you feel better now?” My boyfriend asks once I’m safely off the desk and in his arms.

I nod, pulling him closer to me. “Thank you, Leon. I don’t know what I would do without you.”

“That’s a lie,” he scoffs.

I gasp, pulling back to hit his shoulder gently. “Why would you say that?”

“You left me for several months,” he exclaims.

“But I was thinking of you the whole time,” I confess. He smiles softly, leaning in to place his lips on mine. They move against each other, a comfort that we didn’t know we needed until now.

We're planting a flag they don't understand

The world is up for grabs

We gon' be alright, put that on my life

When I open my eyes, hope I see you shine

We're planting a flag they don't understand

“My businesswoman, look at you,” Leon wolf-whistles from bed as I step out of the walk-in-closet in our beautiful, Victorian house. I roll my eyes but smile, buttoning up my blazer.

“I’ll be at your game tonight,” I remind him, leaning over to kiss his lips.

“Are we what they call a power couple?” He questions.

“I guess we are, Leon. I guess we are.”

The world is up for grabs

I feel glorious, glorious

Got a chance to start again

I was born for this, born for this

It's who I am, how could I forget?

I’ll never get used to seeing Leon’s games, and I think he’ll never get used to seeing me in my natural element designing or being in meetings. We support each other unconditionally, because that’s what good partners do.

And the love we share is undeniable and nothing like I’ve ever felt before. If this is how we are now, I wonder what we’re going to be like in a few years with more goals, more sales, and a couple of cute kids.

I made it through the darkest part of the night

And now I see the sunrise

Now I feel glorious, glorious

I feel glorious, glorious

He scores a goal for me that night. And I save a recyclable bracelet for him.

[ren1327]

Sweater Weather ch.5

Ben and Kenji watched Bumpy as she slept on Ben’s lap, Carmen sitting next to him to stroke her flank as she read her new manga, brown eyes scanning over each detail of the art.

Kenji had sat on the sofa and Ben flush against him, acting as the comfortable partner and lover.

But Ben couldn’t help but feel how comfortable Kenji was. How well he fit to his side. How warm this image of them with a dog and his sister relaxing in the living room was. He leaned his head back and Kenji looked away from the movie to nuzzle in his hair.

Ben wanted this to real if only to feel the comfort and trust in that single moment.

“Dinner’s ready.” Candy said as she came in, pausing to look at them and smile.

Bumpy yipped and stood, stretching before she followed Candy to her new bowl in the corner of the dining room on a soft rug.

Ben got up and Kenji followed, Carmen calling she wanted to finish the next few pages.

Kenji pulled out Ben’s chair and smiled when he sat down with a soft thank you.

Once Carmen was seated, Kenji sat between where Kosei would sit at the head and Ben.

Candy brought out a savory casserole with meat, cheese, tortillas and chili. She then placed down bowls of red rice, refried beans, chips, red and green salsa and cabbage.

“Enchilada casserole!” Carmen said excitedly, then looked at Ben from across the table. “It’s Kenji’s favorite!”

Kenji nodded and was happy to help Ben fill his plate.

Once he had a substantial amount of everything, Ben noticed they were watching him. He then saw that they were holding hands.

“Are you comfortable with grace, Ben?” Candy asked.

“I…yes ma’am.” He said and took Kenji’s and Carmen’s hands.

The family closed their eyes and he noticed only Candy and Kenji bowed their heads. He quickly closed his own eyes as Candy prayed outload.

“Dear provider and father above, thank you for reuniting our family this winter. Thank you for the safe journey of my son and our transition into our new home. Thank you for blessing us with Ben and Bumpy. And thank you for giving us so much more to be thankful for and love. And we say”

“Amen.” She and her family chorused.

Ben lowered his hands and smiled, blushing as he held back tears.

“Ben?!” Carmen asked and Ben quickly wiped his cheeks.

“Sorry. Sorry. It’s just been a while since I’ve prayed.”

“We don’t expect you to be obligated to, Honey.” Candy said and Kosei nodded.

“How you express or don’t express your faith is up to you. But thank you for joining our thanks.” Kosei said gently.

“Does your family have a faith?”

“I uh, I think we were Jewish.” He said.

“Think you were?” Kosei asked.

“Um, my mom was the religious one and um…my Uncle got work overseas so it’s uh…just been me.” He said.

“What?”

“I didn’t want to stress my uncle out and he knew I was with friends and I haven’t…I haven't even told him about Kenji to be honest. It’s been so long and I…”

“Oh, Sweetie.” Candy whispered. “and your mother—”

“Mom.” Kenji said and she covered her mouth in surprised.

Kosei sighed softly as Carmen looked from her parents to Ben, slowly putting the pieces together.

“Oh, Ben. I'm sorry…” She whispered.

“It’s okay. She’s with my dad and I know if I work hard, I can make them proud.” He said, sounding robotic at this point.

“Well, if it’s not too candid…You always have a place in this family. Even as a friend.” Kosei said and Ben smiled, wiping his cheeks again.

“I’m sorry. I made dinner awkward.”

Kenji put a hand on his and look him in the eye. “Never be sorry for expressing how you feel.”

Ben nodded as he looked down at his food. He took a bite…

And coughed hard, grabbing a napkin and holding it to his running nose and burning mouth.

“Oh my gosh!” Carmen said and gave Ben his water. “Kenji! Did you give him the green salsa?!”

“What? It’s not that hot?” Kenji said, grabbing his own napkin for Ben to switch out.

“Mijo, you’ve been eating jalapenos since you were in diapers! Mamita, get him some of the banana milk.” She said.

Carmen quickly got up and returned, twisting open a school cafeteria looking yellow bottle of milk and handing it to Ben, who sipped it slowly, panting softly as he finished it. He then whirled on his pretend boyfriend.

“You’re not human!” He said to Kenji, who was trying to hold back his laughter.

“Stop…stop laughing…” Carmen said, placing a hand over her mouth to hide her own smile.

“I reacted horribly the first time I had the green salsa too, Ben.” Kosei said. “I was sweating while pretending I wasn’t affected, then got sick later.”

“I told you not to put so much. You need to build up to that amount!” Candy said and Ben laughed imaging such a regal looking man sweating and red faced.

“Okay. Stay away from the green sauce.” Ben said. “I’ll remember for next time.”

He took a bite of the casserole and nearly melted.

“Wow…”

“One of the perks of my marriage.” Kosei joked, making Candy huff and roll her eyes with a smile.

“One of many, I hope.” She said.

Kosei took her hand. “Too many to count.”

“Ew. Mom. Dad.”

“Oh, they get to flirt, but us older folk don’t?” She asked her daughter, who giggled.

“So!” Carmen said, gaining everyone’s attention. “How did you two meet?”

“Online.”

“Friends.”

Ben and Kenji looked at each other and Kenji stuttered.

“W-well, we met through friends online…”

Ben put his hand over Kenji’s, smiling at him with steely eyes. Kenji’s mouth shut as Ben hunched his shoulders.

“Its kind of embarrassing really.” He started. “You see, he was video chatting with Sammy. And Sammy and I have been friends for so long…we were comfortable around each other. So one day, while Yaz was at a retreat, I had gotten out of the shower and was only in my boxer briefs because I forgot my clothes in my room.”

Carmen and Kosei looked scandalized as Candy covered her mouth.

Ben blushed as if it were true as he continued. “So, being so comfortable with Sammy, I was drying my hair as I walked nearly naked past her and Kenji unfortunately got an eyeful of my pale chicken legs. The scream I let out.”

Kenji chuckled just imagining the scene.

“And then I asked him for his number.” Kenji said with a shrug.

Candy laughed. “That sounds very like you, Kenji.”

“Texting Ben and calling him leveled me down. Made me want to come back just to…” He paused and shook his head, interlacing his fingers with Ben.

“He makes me happy.”

“So you two are still new to a lot of things.” Candy said. “Despite talking for three months.”

“Yeah.” Ben said and smiled at Kenji, almost genuinely. “He’s way taller than I expected.”

“But you’re just as cute.” Kenji said, making Ben blush deeply.

“Aw~!” Carmen cooed and Kosei scoffed at his daughter.

“Now, now.” He said, then turned to the boys. “Ben, I never asked. Do you prefer a separate room?”

“Excuse me?”

“Dad!”

“We understand how couples are and respect how you express your love.” Candy said. “As long as you’re safe. However, if you’ve only started being together…”

“Stop, stop this now.” Kenji said.

“I’ll be okay with Kenji.” Ben said with a nod. “He takes really great care of me and respects my wishes.”

Kosei nodded in approval of his son. “I am very happy to hear so.”

“Ben, I have to ask because it’s been bothering me…what’s that scar on your upper arm?” Candy asked.

Ben looked at the jagged scar on his left bicep. He covered it.

“It’s…from an old relationship.”

Carmen gasped and Kosei placed his glass down, eyes hard as he looked at Ben. Kenji squeezed his hand.

“What?”

“It was way before I met Kenji.” Ben said. “And I never brought it up because…”

“No, sweetheart, I’m so sorry.” Candy whispered.

“It’s fine. He’s…” He took a deep breath. “He’s gone and I’m far, far away from him.”

Kenji pulled Ben’s hand to rest on his chest. “Ben…don’t be scared to tell me things. I won’t judge you, ever.”

Ben smiled and kissed Kenji’s cheek.

“Thank you. All of you.”

 Ben sat on the king sized Ben in Kenji’s room.

It was decorated in shades of red and gray, as opposed to the white and blue outside. He was dressed in an old t-shirt and pajama pants, Kenji showering.

The room was very…sparse.

It had rich dark wood furniture, plush latte colored carpet and pale pastel yellow walls that could be white in different light. Rich strawberry red bedspread and rugs and grey curtains and armchairs next to a white brick fireplace with a glass guard. There was a desk, a small table next to the large window with the armchairs next to the fireplace and with another tall, small surfaced table. The bed was in the middle of the back wall, two nightstands holding touch lamps and piled with soft velvety red and grey pillows overstuffed, but comfortable enough to leave on when going to sleep.

Bumpy snored from her plush pet bed near the heating vent, exhausted from the busy day she had.

Ben felt himself already getting sleepy as he read one of the books Yaz had bought him as an early Christmas gift. He looked at his phone

He text Sammy.

B: I told them about J

S: WHAT?!?!?! Ben, you didn’t have to!

B: It felt right. I trust Kenji.

S: Okay. How do you feel?

B: A little better tbh Like Like I have some more eyes looking over my shoulders to watch my back Idk

S: Kenji would kick his ass into next year! I WOULD TOO!

B: Thanks, Sammy. We’re heading off to the hotel tomorrow. I’ll send you some pictures.

S: Be safe! Yaz said to say she misses you.

B: I miss you too. Love you both.

S: <3

 Kenji came in dressed in flannel pajamas and looked at Ben, who was still curled up on the right side with his book.

“Um…”

“It’s okay. You’re probably cold.” Ben said, pretending to read his book as Kenji draped the damp towel over the back of his desk chair.

“Are you cold?” He asked.

Ben ducked his head a bit, not wanting to make a awkward situation more so.

Kenji reached into his bag and pulled out the soft knitted blue sweater he had worn to dinner. He held it out to Ben.

Ben blinked and suddenly, Kenji blushed.

“Sorry! I’ll get you a clean one or—”

“I’ll take it.” Ben said, taking it from his hands and pulling it over his shirt.

He blushed as he smelled Kenji’s cologne on the collar and wrists. Kenji got in bed next to him.

“What are you reading?” He asked Ben.

“A sequel series of this young adult…um…It’s a little complicated, but it focuses on my favorite characters from the first series.”

“Read a bit to me?”

“You wouldn’t understand it.” Ben said. “But if you want me too, I can explain plot details and stuff...”

“Okay.” Ben said and found where he had paused. “Magnus saw hundreds of masked people in elaborate costumes dancing in unison, and around them was music that could be seen as well as heard. As if ripped from a black-and-white sheet of paper and turned into bright, living shapes, the notes floated in the air, drifting along currents of musical lines and wrapping around the glittering masks and elaborate hair of the dancers. Along the ceiling, the constellations were moving; no, they were the orchestra…”

He noticed Kenji had relaxed and was dozing off, soft snores floating from him. Ben placed his bookmark inside the page and placed it on the nightstand. He touched the lamp, and the room went dark.

Kenji wiggled closer and hugged him loosely around the waist.

He smiled and pretended this was his life, with a loving boyfriend and his family and safe and loved—

“Sorry…Brooklynn…” Kenji groaned and Ben froze. He pulled away and rolled over, leaving Ben cold and feeling empty.

[writingtoforgetreality]

I just want us to be safe – Chapter 1 (Andy Barber x Daughter!Reader)

Next Chapter / I just want us to be safe-Masterlist

Summary: You were the 20-year-old daughter of Andy Barber. Nine months after a one-night-stand, your biological mother decided to give the responsibility to him. Yet, you were happy with your small family. One day, though, a scary event occured & somehow you involuntarily started being a part of this.

Words: 2,089

Warnings: none just yet, maybe a bit of swearing bc that`s me, angst if you squint

If you like my work & wanna support me: a coffee would be highly appreciated ❤

You were (Y/N) Barber. Daughter of the assistent attorney, Andy Barber. You were 20 years old & used to attend Newton high school, like your younger brother Jacob did. Now, your background is a bit more complicated. Technically, Jacob was not your biological brother. Neither was Laurie, Jacob’s mother & Andy’s wife, your biological mother. Some time ago, when your dad had not been dating Laurie yet, he had a one-night-stand with some girl he had met at a bar. Just one night, he had not seen her after that encounter. What he did not know though: the girl got pregnant & nine months later, Andy found a small basket at his doorstep. There you were, wrapped in a blanket. There was a letter, too. Your biological mother had not been ready for a child but she knew Andy would handle you just fine. And, being the guy Andy was, he obviously took you in. You were his daughter to say the last. He made sure to take a paternity test & yep, you were his daughter.

Now, do not get me wrong, you grew up with Laurie being your mother & yet, you had never, not even once, called her “mom“. You simply did not feel ready to do so & neither your dad nor Laurie pushed you into something you were not comfortable with. When you were 6 years old, Jacob was born & ever since then, you had made sure to protect him at all costs. Your dad loved seeing you with Jacob & he loved the bond you two shared. Laurie was sure that you would be more open about her being your mother after that but nope. Your guess was that you still felt neglected by your biological mother & did not want to let another “mother figure“ get close to you. Your dad never lied to you about anything. He tried to explain to you from the very beginning how your biological mother “abandoned“ you & that Laurie was & will always be your mom. While Andy did not lie to you, the two of you had kept a secret from Jacob & Laurie. Your dad said that they did not need to know & he did not want them to see him in a different light. It was not his fault that his dad had been a criminal though. It was not his fault your grandfather killed, stabbed to be exact, a girl. He had been suffering for his actions in jail, for a very long time. You had agreed on keeping it for you, never doubting your dad. You knew he only had good intentions.

After graduating from Newton High, you got into law school near your home. You wanted to follow your dad’s footsteps. He did not force you to approach the same career & let you choose a path yourself. He would lie if he said that he was not proud of you for wanting to do the same as him though. Law school was absolutely amazing, you loved going there every day, loved coming home to tell the new things you learned at your dinner table. People say sometimes you know when a decision is right, you have a gut feeling about it. You were sure: this was YOUR way. Even though your family was quite wealthy, never having a problem about money whatsoever, you still wanted to have a part-time job during college. Earning your own money simply felt amazing. Your dad & Laurie were so proud of you for being so independent.

Here you were, a nice family, a house, the best future ahead. But life does not always roll that way, does it? Every time when Jacob had a problem in school or with homework, studying for an upcoming exam, he would knock on your door, waiting for you to yell “Come in! I told you there’s no need to knock, Jay.“ Jay. You always called him that. He was your little brother & while others called him “Jake“ or simply “Jacob“, you wanted to have something for yourself. Jay it was. Anyway, after coming into your room, asking if you were busy, the two of you always ended up doing school stuff together. It was more fun to have company & Jacob was always thankful for you helping him out. Of course you would, you never had a problem in high school, always bringing home good grades. You liked helping him wherever you could.

Your alarm woke you up at 6 am. Time to get up, get ready & head to college. Usually, dad would take you with him in the mornings since his work is close to your school. Today, though, you had to take your own car to drive to school, you had to work at your local diner afterwards. Yes, you did purchase that car on your own. After saving enough money, you decided on a small black car, not really caring too much about the brand. All that mattered was that it was not too pricey & that it worked. Of course your parents offered you to buy you that car but you wanted to do this on your own. And would you look at that, you managed to buy it without being broke. As you finished showering, putting makeup on & deciding on an outfit, you made your way downstairs where dad & Jacob were already seated. Laurie was most likely out on her daily morning run. You did not understand how someone could go jogging voluntarily. It kept you healthy but at what cost?

“G’morning male beings of this household.“ you greeted them & earned a chuckle from dad. You were not a morning person but that was not your family’s fault so you would brush off your grogginess in order not to say something you might regret later. Jacob was busy writing away on his phone. Gosh, this boy & his damned phone.

“Good morning, angel. How did you sleep?” your dad shot you a grin. He had been calling you “angel“ ever since you were little & you absolutely loved this nickname.

“Like a princess, as always.“ you answered. Some might say you were a sarcastic piece of shit & you know what, maybe they were right. You were a lot like your dad & you liked yourself & your goofiness. You could be serious when it was needed though, your personality was perfectly balanced.

“Hello? Earth to Jay?“ you waved your hand in front of his face to gain his attention but his eyes were glued on his screen still.

“Morning.“ was the only word you got out of him.

“Okay, what girl are you texting? Do I know her? Does she have an older sister? Brother, maybe? Is she hot?“ you teased him & Jacob sent you a glare which made you giggle.

“I’m just texting Derek.“ Jacob stated.

“Wow…And I thought I was the one who hated mornings.“ you stated, mostly to yourself but your dad heard you & started laughing. Even Jacob let out a low giggle.

While the three of you held a conversation, Laurie got back home, greeting you & asking you about your plans for today.

“Do I need to take any of you to school?“ dad asked.

“Um, actually, I’ll be driving myself today. I’ll be back home a bit later, gotta earn that bread, y’know?“ you smirked at both, your dad & Laurie to wait for their reactions. Seeing them laugh was one of your favorite things in this world, especially when you were the reason.

“Sure thing, just text me when you know how late it’ll be.“ dad waited for you to nod, looked at Jacob & asked “What about you, buddy?“

“I’ll be walking today.“

“You sure, you know it’s no probl-” but before dad could finish, Jacob cut him off.

“I’m fine with walking.“

“Okay, just be safe.“

Checking the time, you saw that you should keep going so you went over to dad & Laurie, gave each of them a kiss on the cheek, went over to Jacob, messed up his hair a bit which earned you a groan & finally made your way outside to your car. You hopped in, turned on the engine & started driving off. Every time you would drive yourself, you always stopped at Starbucks for a quick breakfast. Your breakfast mostly consisted of a nice coffee. No offense, but the coffee you got at home just was not it. And let’s be honest: Nobody survives college without having coffee.

Finishing all of you classes for the day, you & a few of your colleagues exited the building. Usually, when you were at college, you did not look at your phone at all, finding it too distracting when you had to focus on something else. But as soon as you unlocked your phone, you knew something was off. You had two calls from Jacob, which was weird since he barely ever called you, & 5 missed calls from dad. Fuck, something was not right. You excused yourself from your friend group, teling them you had to go to work earlier, while in reality, you moved to your car, opened it & got inside. As soon as you closed your door, you called Jacob first. He picked up almost immeadiately.

“(Y/N)? Thank god, I’ve tried calling you.“ he sounded a bit shaken up? That was off.

“Yeah, I know, sorry `bout that, Jay. You know how I ignore my phone during classes but anyway…What’s up? Are you okay?” you started growing concerned now.

“Newton High is locked down. Apparently they found a 14-year-old stabbed in the woods. I am fine though.“ his voice was quiet, almost like he did not want anyone else to hear. Your heart stopped a beat. There was a killer running around town. Who the hell would stab a teenager? Who the hell would stab anyone to begin with?

“Have you talked to dad yet?“ you really did not know what else to say. You were just glad your little brother was alright. That was all that mattered right now.

“Yes, he’s on it. He said he wanted to call you. Have YOU talked to him?“

“Not yet, I’ll call him now, just wanted to make sure you’re okay. Call me if something’s wrong or if you`re scared, okay?“ your heart was literally racing. Yeah, your brother was fine but the victim was his age & Jacob usually took the way through the woods to get to school. The mere thought of your brother being the one who had been murdered scared you like crazy.

“Will do. Thanks, (Y/N). Bye.“

“Bye, Jay.“ you ended the call & let yourself breathe for a moment. Not even once in your life did you think something like this could happen in your neighborhood. You lived in one oft he safest areas in the country & yet this brutal event had happened so close to home. The world was a scary place. A few minutes later, after calming down as good as it was possible, you dialed dad’s number. He would most likely knew more. To be honest, you were not sure if you really wanted to know more about this case but on the other hand,you were curious. Of course you were, you wanted to do this as your future job. His phone rang twice before he picked up.

“(Y/N)? Angel?“ he did not sound scared, just relieved to hear your voice.

“Yeah, it’s me, dad. I’m fine, talked to Jay. He told me what happened. Well, as much as he knew, of course. What the hell is going on?“ you were rambling. You always were when you grew nervous or anxious.

“Breathe, angel. Look, there’s a lot going on. Could you come home, like, right now? I called your boss, she said it was fine if you took the evening off.“ he knew you would say you needed to go to work so he had called the diner you worked at to explain the situation.

“I’ll be home in ten.“

“Drive safe.“ your dad always made sure you were okay, trying to protect you as much as he could. He would do everything for his family to be safe.

“Always.“ & with that, you ended the call. Everthing inside you screamed to go over the speed limit but your dad’s words popped into your mind again. He would not want this. You would survive another ten minutes before coming home.

~to be continued~

Published 04/30/2020 by Cathy

[nimarasnetherworld]

Harry Potter AU

So, this idea was born with the help of the Beetlejuice discord server (love you all) and I decided to write a small thing for it! Enjoy!

(you can read this and my other Beetlejuice one-shots on Ao3 right here!)

Summary : Lydia is a student at Hogwarts where Delia teaches Divination.

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

Lydia Deetz was a witch. A half-blood. Her father, Charles Deetz is a mortal and her mother was a witch. Emily Deetz had died when Lydia was only nine years old. She had been an Auror, died during a dangerous mission. After that, her father had decided to leave the Unites States and move to The United Kingdom. To start a new life.  Of course, it had been hard for the both of them but they held on to each other and slowly healed and moved on.

Lydia was studying at Hogwarts, deciding to stay in the UK rather than to move back to the USA to attend Ilvermorny. And after all her mother had studied at Hogwarts. A proud Slytherin, like Lydia. And like her mother, Lydia wanted to become an Auror. Of course, at first, her father had freaked out, afraid that his daughter would end up killed. But Slowly he had gotten used to the idea. Well, he was still against the idea, trying to convince her to become a “witch doctor”, but didn’t mentioned it as much as he used to. Delia had helped him a lot with this.

Delia was Charles’s second wife and Lydia’s stepmother. And a witch. The day Charles had found out about her being a witch had been one of the funniest moment Lydia had ever witnessed. Looked like her father had a thing for witches after all. Of course, Lydia had known way before her father that Delia was a witch. She was actually famous in the wizarding world. One of the best witch in the world when it came to divination.  All of her prophecies turned out to be true¸ even if they didn’t make any sense most of the time.

It was fun to watch people freak out when Delia predicted what seemed like a terrible future. “You’ll find yourself surrounding by darkness, cold, and mostly wet.” And the next day you would fall into a lake. So not the terrible future you were bracing yourself for.

Lydia was in her fourth year now and couldn’t wait to graduate. Life at Hogwarts hadn’t been easy for her. She was picked on by other students and everyone thought she was weird even if they were all witches.

Thank fully she had quickly made friend with the Hufflepuff’s ghosts. Adam and Barbara Maitland had become like a second pair of parents to her, even if she wasn’t from their house. They were always there if she needed to talk. Because as much as she loved her cat, Vincent, he wasn’t really great at conversations. And it was thanks the Maitlands that she had met Allison, a Hufflepuff in the same year as her. They had quickly become friends and life got a little easier.

But she had not expected Delia to become a professor at the school. When the Headmaster had introduced her to the students during the banquet, she had immediately heard the comments from her fellow Slytherins. Kyle and Abraham, who had decided since the first day of their first year to make her life a living nightmare, quickly went into action.

“Oh, so you brought your mommy with you Deetz?”

“I wonder how you’re so lame at divination when your mother is the Delia Deetz!”

“She’s not my mother!” snapped Lydia.

“Oh yeah right! Your mommy’s dead!” laughed Kyle.

Lydia felt the anger rise within her. But she controlled herself. She had promised the prefect to no not lose points on the first day this year and she wanted to prove this idiot that she could do it. So, she clenched her fists and turned her head toward the professor’s table. When Delia caught her looking in her direction, she happily waved at her, mouthing a “Hi Lydia”, only earning more laughs from her classmates.

This wasn’t going to be a fun year.

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

When Lydia entered the dungeon for her Potion class, Allison was already there, as well as Kyle and Abraham. Lydia braced herself for the usual comments but they said nothing. They even smiled at her when she passed next to them.

Lydia frowned but said nothing as she took her seat next to Allison. She slowly got all the ingredients out of her bags but realized she was missing something.

“Oh no! I forgot my newt’s tongue!”

“Oh. Well I only have one and it’s crucial for the potion so I don’t know what you’re going to do. Plus, the class starts in five minutes do you don’t have the time to go back to the supply closet.”

“Yes. Thank you, Allison, this is very helpful.” The Slytherin told her friend.

Kyle’s voice suddenly interrupted them, “I have two if you want.”

“what?” Lydia asked confused.

“I have two newt’s tongues if you want?”

“Um. Okay.”

Lydia half expected for him to give her a snake of something disgusting to prank her, but he actually placed a newt’s tongue in her hand,

“Here you go.” He said.

“uh… Thank you.” Said Lydia confused by their sudden change of behavior.

She turned toward Allison who, “What was that?”

“I don’t know.” Replied the Hufflepuff, as surprised as her, “They’ve been acting weird since their Divination lesson yesterday.”

The Divination lesson? Lydia let out a small laugh. She definitely was going to see her stepmother after class.  She wanted what Delia had told them to make them so nice.

*********

Delia was grading some papers when someone knocked on the door of her office.

“Entered!” she shouted in direction of the door.

To her surprise, Lydia opened the door and slipped into the room.

“Oh. Hi sweetie! Is something wrong?”

It was unusual for her step daughter to come and see her outside the class.

“No.” replied the teen, “I just wanted to ask you something.”

“Oh, okay! Ask away!” Delia said cheerfully.

“So, Kyle and Abraham have been very nice lately and apparently that sudden change of behavior occurred after you lesson yesterday. What did you tell them?” asked Lydia cocking one of her eyebrows.

A smirked appeared on her stepmother’s face, “Oh, maybe I told them that terrible things would happen to them if they weren’t a little nicer.”

“So, you lied to them?” Lydia asked in surprise.

The professor shrugged, “Well why have a gift if you can’t use it at your advantage?”

“Wow. Who are you and what have you done to the sweet and nice professor Deetz?” chuckled the young witch.

Delia rolled her eyes before gesturing to the seat in front of her,

“Do you want some tea?”

Lydia sighed. She had nothing else to do. She sat down and took the cup Delia was offering her. They talked about classes and family stuff for a while. It was actually nice to have someone other than Allison to talked to.

“I don’t understand why dad freaks out so much about me wanting to be an Auror?” said Lydia suddenly.

“Oh sweetie, he’s just worried for you. But don’t worry I’ll talk to him. After all, if you want to be an Auror you have to follow your dream!” Exclaimed the redhead in her usual cheerful manner.

Lydia gave her a small smile. At least someone believed in her.

“How about I look at those tea leaves of yours?” asked Delia extended her hand toward her teacup.

Lydia nodded and gave it to her. Delia spent a few seconds examining its contents before announcing her prophecy,

“Your future lies within the dawn.”

“What does it even mean?” Lydia said, confused by the statement. Like always when it came to Delia’s prophecies.

“I don’t really know. But you have your whole life to figure it out sweetie.” Said Delia giving her back the teacup.

The young witch gave her stepmother a small smile before making her way back to her dorm. The next day, Lydia made sure to be awake before the sun was up. She sat in front of the window, Vincent, joining her soon after, and together they watched the first lights of dawn lightning up the sky.

********

Lydia had never been as happy as the day she was made an Auror by the Ministry. She had been doing this job for almost six years now and she was sure she would never get tired of it.

Her partner was a weird one for sure. He claimed that his name was Beetlejuice, but Lydia had found out that it was truly Lawrence and often teased him about it. With his electric green hair, the wizard truly looked out of place. Well, actually they weren’t even sure he was a wizard. Sure, he could do magic but Lydia was sure it wasn’t the same magic that they were using. Some people said Beetlejuice was a vampire, a ghost or even a demon. But Lydia liked him. They worked well together. Actually, she’s the only one who managed to work with him. He had pushed ten Aurors into retirement before she had arrived.

Of course, there were some drawbacks about being an Auror. The biggest one was the paper work. Which was what the witch was doing right now. Beetlejuice was lying on to of his desk an ancient book in his hands, quiet for once.

“Why are you doing this crap?” he suddenly asked in his raspy voice.

“Because this “crap” is going to get us out of trouble for the time you made a house collapsed.”

“Hey it was to catch a bad guy! I don’t get why we are in trouble for that.” Beetlejuice replied, turning the page of his book.

Lydia sighed, “Catching bad guys doesn’t mean we can just destroy people’s properties.”

For an answer Beetlejuice groaned. Working with him was like working with a paperwork generator. But she had to admit that it was fun.

After a moment of silence, Beetlejuice spoke again.

“Hey, did you know “Aurore” meant “dawn” in French? With an “e” at the end.”

“No, I didn’t…” suddenly, she looked up,

“Your future lies within the dawn.” Lydia smiled. Looked like Delia had been right. Again.

The witch looked at the picture on her desk. Next to her mother’s picture was a picture of her Dad, Delia and herself at her Hogwarts’s graduation. She quickly grabbed her phone and texted Delia,

“Can I come over to dinner tonight?”

The reply was almost immediate,

“Of course, sweetie! We’d be happy to have you over!”

Lydia smiled. It had been too long since she had seen her family.

[incorrectchoniberonicaswangs]

hey baby won't you look my way (i can be your new addiction)

Chapter 7: gays you ever just ahsnfdjsl?? part 1

Chapter Summary: Holiday parties are planned, Cheryl and Toni are Kevin's sapphic moms, an intervention is held, Alice and Hermione are adorable and everyone loves them, Kangs has some news, and Sweet Pea runs away from his problems.

Notes: theMANtle: reggie

ao3

Friday, 3:17 PM

gays united

hbicheryl: its winter break!! finally a respite from the chaos!!

jugheadalones: im so excited!

hbicheryl: hold up, hobo is excited about something??

hisshissmotherfucker: ^^ jones are you sick

jugheadalones: okay, first of all fuck you

jugheadalones: second of all im excited to return to the near-comatose state i maintain every time we have a long period of time off from school

nopeaz: that makes more sense

veroffica: as enjoyable as that likely is to you, holden caulfield, it won't be happening this break. i'm hosting a christmas eve party at the pembrooke starting at 8:00 pm and you are all invited.

veroffica: and you'd better all show up, or else i'll sic my new bodyguard on you.

goingtoheller: i assume you mean betty.

wannabett: guilty :/

spillthefogarTEA: ill be there. and NOT because of your threats

spillthefogarTEA: even though betty is kind of intimidating

goingtoheller: i'll come as well.

nopeaz: cher and ill come too

hisshissmotherfucker: i love parties im there

jugheadalones: i dont suppose i really have a choice do i?

wannabett: not really. sorry jug

jugheadalones: fine.

hbicheryl: speaking of holiday parties

hbicheryl: new years eve party, thistlehouse, time tbd, if you arent there youre dead to me

veroffica: b and i will be there.

spillthefogarTEA: me too

goingtoheller: i'll be there.

hisshissmotherfucker: i hear cheryls parties are infamously dramatic

hisshissmotherfucker: so im definitely coming

hisshissmotherfucker: as long as i dont end up doing seven minutes in heaven with archie like veronica

veroffica: will nobody ever let me forget that??

hisshissmotherfucker: nope

jugheadalones: why do all these party invites come with threats of retribution if you dont attend?

hbicheryl: bc if there wasnt then youd never come

jugheadalones: ill come. begrudgingly.

nopeaz: and ofc ill be there obviously

jugheadalones: wait am i missing something? why is that obvious?

hbicheryl: oh right we didnt tell you lol

hbicheryl: tt moved in with me

goingtoheller: WHAT??

goingtoheller: my sapphic moms moved in together aND I HAD NO FUCKING IDEA??

hisshissmotherfucker: why is keller suddenly chonis kid when did this happen??

hbicheryl: please kevin is basically toni and i's love child

hbicheryl: he has my sass (well not as good as mine but hes trying), my gayness, and my strange desire for dumbass serpents

nopeaz: and my propensity for saying 'this is riveting i cant breathe'

goingtoheller: aw, thanks, moms! mostly! :)

nopeaz: no problem son

hbicheryl: yes we are very proud of you kev (mostly)

jugheadalones: huh i never actually thought about it but that... works?

wannabett: okay cheryl and toni are like the least qualified people here to be anyones lesbian moms?? theyre literally gang members??

hbicheryl: stfu nightmare smurfette do not EVER criticize my parenting skills

hbicheryl: toni and i have slaved for weeks, even MONTHS to make sure that kevin turns into a proper young gay man

hbicheryl: and you have the AUDACITY to suggest that just because my gf and i are deeply flawed people we would corrupt poor kevin??

wannabett: uh... no?

hbicheryl: thats what i thought

nopeaz: wow angry cheryl is scary but hot

spillthefogarTEA: topaz, you are so whipped

spillthefogarTEA: and REALLY fucking gay

nopeaz: yeah ik

jugheadalones: moving on

jugheadalones: speaking of people taking a big step and deciding to live with each other... betty and veronica, we need to talk.

veroffica: um... what?

veroffica: is this some sort of intervention?

hisshissmotherfucker: yes

spillthefogarTEA: moving in together might be considered friendly if, say, betty didnt already have a house that she lives in

nopeaz: but this decision is beyond simple friendship

hbicheryl: and its certainly anything but heterosexual

wannabett: why are you guys finishing each others sentences?? did you plan this??

hisshissmotherfucker: no shit sherlock

veroffica: how do you guys even have this information??

goingtoheller: we have our ways.

wannabett: archie somehow saw our texts through my window

wannabett: jughead told me last night, sorry i didnt tell you v, i didnt know that this was going to happen

nopeaz: dammit jones why do you have to ruin all our fun!!

jugheadalones: i didnt realize that this was a rule?

jugheadalones: so anyway

jugheadalones: b&v, now that you have been confronted with cold hard proof of your undying love for each other, what do you have to say for yourselves?

wannabett: guys im straight!!

goingtoheller: ooh, betty's pulling the straight card.

hbicheryl: i called it! tt, sp, fangs, and jughead, you all owe me $10

hbicheryl: cousin betty is nothing if not predictable in the face of her sexuality being questioned

veroffica: hey, you made bets on this?? not cool!

wannabett: ^^^^

wannabett: and i am NOT predictable!!

hbicheryl: i predicted she was going to say that

hbicheryl: thats another $10 guys

hisshissmotherfucker: for once i trusted in someones willingness to admit when they were wrong and now because of that cheryl is robbing us blind! smh never again

spillthefogarTEA: veronica? you never answered the question

veroffica: uh...

veroffica: i mean, um...

veroffica: we've never even kissed! i'm pretty sure we aren't dating!

nopeaz: to be fair though i wouldnt be surprised if you two were dating without knowing it

veroffica: guys, now really isn't a good time.

jugheadalones: mmmhmm

wannabett: no seriously v and i are getting ready for the christmas eve party

wannabett: its in three days remember

hbicheryl: ugh fine i suppose thats a reasonable explanation

veroffica: and since i know that you won't let this go, at the party you can ask us whatever you want about this.

goingtoheller: wait... for real?

wannabett: uh yeah really v??

veroffica: within reason, of course.

spillthefogarTEA: wow this is more than i expected to come from this

veroffica: one condition, though. you can't pester b and i about it before the party.

veroffica: deal?

hisshissmotherfucker: deal

wannabett: now that thats settled v and i are going to get to work

veroffica: we'll probably be off the grid until maybe a few hours before the party.

[wannabett is offline]

[veroffica is offline]

hbicheryl: toni and i are already headed over to pops, anyone want to join us?

jugheadalones: wont we just be three-wheeling?

hbicheryl: not if we are in a large group

hisshissmotherfucker: ill come if you come jones

jugheadalones: sure.

hisshissmotherfucker: ill be there in five

[hisshissmotherfucker is offline]

jugheadalones: kevin, fangs?

spillthefogarTEA: im good

goingtoheller: ^^

nopeaz: okay otw

[nopeaz is offline]

[hbicheryl is offline]

jugheadalones: leaving now

[jugheadalones is offline]

6:35 PM

nopeaz: GUYS YOULL NEVER BELIEVE WHO JUST WALKED IN

spillthefogarTEA: who is it??

spillthefogarTEA: tell me you know im not good with suspense!!

jugheadalones: its alice cooper and hermione lodge!

hisshissmotherfucker: it seems as though archies intel was correct again

hisshissmotherfucker: damn that omniscient fucking northsider

hbicheryl: now i really wish that betty and veronica werent offline so they could hear about this

goingtoheller: why? do you hate them?

hbicheryl: hate is a strong word

hbicheryl: id say that i just occasionally want them to suffer

goingtoheller: that isn't much better...

hbicheryl: i guess ill just have to wait until the party to tell them

nopeaz: okay so they just got a booth and its basically diagonal from ours

jugheadalones: but theyre so enamoured with each other i dont think they even noticed that were here

hbicheryl: wow i dont think ive ever seen aunt alice this happy before

spillthefogarTEA: ugh this sounds so adorable i wish i was there

hisshissmotherfucker: dont worry well narrate their every movement so well itll be like you are

nopeaz: oh shit they keep reaching for each other like every five seconds

spillthefogarTEA: im WEAK

jugheadalones: its so hard to believe that they ever hated each other with the way theyre acting now

jugheadalones: homophobia can really fuck shit up huh

goingtoheller: this is the couple i never knew i needed, but now that i have seen that it's possible, i'm in love.

hisshissmotherfucker: im in shock i cant believe that the same alice cooper that grounded her daughter from any and all contact with the outside world is now just essentially the personification of heart eyes

hbicheryl: this town is so small were all basically inbred

hbicheryl: next thing you know fp and fred are going to be fucking too

jugheadalones: okay i did NOT need that image

nopeaz: AHHHH THEY WENT IN FOR A KISS MAYDAY MAYDAY THIS IS NOT A DRILL

spillthefogarTEA: AHHHHH

goingtoheller: AHHHHHHH

nopeaz: AHHHHHHH

jugheadalones: even i, being asexual and aromantic, have to admit that im loving living vicariously through these two

hisshissmotherfucker: k so they stopped

hisshissmotherfucker: wait no theyre kissing again!

hisshissmotherfucker: and again!

hisshissmotherfucker: and again!

hisshissmotherfucker: okay now theyre just making out

nopeaz: get it girl(s)

hbicheryl: its getting pretty heated

hbicheryl: it feels like the windows are going to start fogging up

jugheadalones: oh damn they stopped

jugheadalones: ms cooper is waving pop over now

goingtoheller: is it creepy that we're so invested in their date?

spillthefogarTEA: probably not

hisshissmotherfucker: nah

jugheadalones: lets go with no

nopeaz: nope

hbicheryl: its only creepy if we get turned on

goingtoheller: moving on... what's happening now??

nopeaz: they got the check and now theyre paying

nopeaz: they can barely keep their hands off of each other

nopeaz: now theyre leaving

nopeaz: should i follow them to keep narrating?

goingtoheller: won't they notice??

jugheadalones: no theyve only got eyes for each other

jugheadalones: follow them SUBTLY while we hold down the table

nopeaz: roger that

hbicheryl: youre such a nerd

nopeaz: you love it

hbicheryl: duh

hbicheryl: now follow them!!

nopeaz: already doing it

nopeaz: so they made it to their car

nopeaz: okay wow wasnt expecting that but im not complaining

spillthefogarTEA: whats happening???

nopeaz: alice just shoved hermione up against the car door and now theyre hardcore making out

nopeaz: damn i wonder if theyre even going to get home or if theyre just going to do it in the parking lot

hisshissmotherfucker: i cant believe alice cooper and mayor lodge BOTH have better sex lives than i do wtf

goingtoheller: who knew that hermione lodge was such a bottom??

hbicheryl: well you know what they say about people in positions of power

hbicheryl: top in the streets bottom in the sheets

jugheadalones: wait cheryl that could apply to you as well

spillthefogarTEA: ooh is the class president getting the strap from the vice president

nopeaz: fuck off fangs

nopeaz: okay so they finally managed to regain some semblance of control

nopeaz: aaaaand theyre driving away

nopeaz: shows over folks

hbicheryl: lets clear out men

nopeaz: meet me by the bike cher

hbicheryl: be there in a sec babe xx

jugheadalones: wait are you telling me that cheryl blossom rode a motorcycle??

hisshissmotherfucker: yeah red i thought you said they were death traps

hbicheryl: well yeah but that was before i got on it

hbicheryl: its like a giant vibrator

hbicheryl: and riding it with toni is basically just the most acceptable type of public sex

goingtoheller: gross.

hisshissmotherfucker: never thought id agree with keller but yeah tmi

nopeaz: whatever

nopeaz: bye fuckers see you all at veronicas party

[nopeaz is offline]

[hbicheryl is offline]

jugheadalones: im headed out too

[jugheadalones is offline]

hisshissmotherfucker: me too

[hisshissmotherfucker is offline]

Monday, 6:43 PM

wannabett: b&v are back bitches!!

veroffica: and, looking through the chat from the past few days... i'm glad i was gone.

wannabett: although now i know what 'hot date' my mom was talking about :/

wannabett: even though i never wanted to know

wannabett: some things are best kept secret especially when your mom goes out on a date with your best friends mom!!

hbicheryl: youre welcome :)

veroffica: cheryl, at this very moment, i simultaneously respect, despise, and fear you.

hbicheryl: aw thanks thats what im always going for!

veroffica: anyway, the party will be starting in an hour or so, but some of my relatives will be over in the meantime. if you've got anything to say that doesn't involve the date my mom and betty's mom have, feel free. if you don't, go to hell.

hisshissmotherfucker: hey im in the neighborhood and i dont have anything else to do would you mind if i came over now

veroffica: sure thing!

hisshissmotherfucker: are you sure your relatives will be fine with me being there?

veroffica: yeah. i mean, betty's here too anyway!

hisshissmotherfucker: k

6:48 PM

goingtoheller + veroffica

goingtoheller: hey, would you happen to have some time you could set away during the party? fangs and i have an announcement we'd like to make.

veroffica: sure thing, kev. how does around 10 sound?

goingtoheller: perfect. thanks, v!

veroffica: no problem.

7:22 PM

gays united

hisshissmotherfucker: rn betty looks like she cant decide whether to be a guard dog or an excited puppy lmao

jugheadalones: context?

hisshissmotherfucker: veronicas greeting her relatives and bettys following her so closely shes practically stepping on her heels

goingtoheller: well, v is definitely holding betty's leash.

nopeaz: yeah veronicas got her by the collar

spillthefogarTEA: if betty doesnt watch her step then shes really going to be in the doghouse

wannabett: stop with the dog puns!! i am not a dog!!

hbicheryl: okay but you have to admit those were pretty good

wannabett: i will admit no such thing! now if youll excuse me im going to go back to talking to ronnies relatives with her

[wannabett is offline]

hisshissmotherfucker: i guess ill keep you all informed on their gay shenanigans

nopeaz: who even says shenanigans anymore??

hisshissmotherfucker: uh i do fight me

nopeaz: square up bitch

hbicheryl: if i had a dollar for every time tt and sp said that they were going to fight i would have enough money to rebuild thornhill

goingtoheller: cheryl, you're the one who burned it down in the first place.

hbicheryl: yes and??

goingtoheller: ...nevermind.

hisshissmotherfucker: im snoRTING

jugheadalones: what happened?

hisshissmotherfucker: so veronica was talking to one of her relatives right

hisshissmotherfucker: and the relative asks her if she has a boyfriend

hisshissmotherfucker: veronica laughs a little and says no so her relative looks at betty whos still trailing behind her like a shadow

hisshissmotherfucker: and knowingly says "oh i see, a girlfriend"

spillthefogarTEA: ajklfshagak i cant even

hisshissmotherfucker: both of them are sputtering uncontrollably unable to formulate a response im dying

hbicheryl: ahahah it was only a matter of time before something like this happened but im really glad it did

nopeaz: i mean relatives are supposed to know you better than anyone else right?

jugheadalones: oh b&v you oblivious wlw

goingtoheller: we're never letting them let this down, are we?

spillthefogarTEA: not a chance

hisshissmotherfucker: IT GOT BETTER

hisshissmotherfucker: veronica finally managed to speak and she (unconvincingly) insisted that she and betty were just friends etc etc and her relative just raised her eyebrows and went "mmhm"

nopeaz: drag themmmmm

hbicheryl: omg we stan

hisshissmotherfucker: im trying to stifle my laughter bc betty and veronica look like they want to murder me

hisshissmotherfucker: but you know what screw it its worth it

hisshissmotherfucker: oh shit bettys coming over here and she looks pissed

hisshissmotherfucker: hello punks, this is betty. i hope youve had your fun listening to sweet pea narrate everything but now im taking his phone and wont be giving it back until the party starts

[hisshissmotherfucker is offline]

jugheadalones: awww

goingtoheller: at least the party starts soon anyway. then, i'm sure we'll get even more beronica fodder.

jugheadalones: true

hbicheryl: see you then losers

spillthefogarTEA: back at ya cheryl

7:48 PM

nopeaz: cher and i are on our way

goingtoheller: fangs and i are leaving now.

jugheadalones: and im at your door at this very moment

jugheadalones: let me in

jugheadalones: okay great im in

hisshissmotherfucker: and i just got my phone back

hisshissmotherfucker: i will not stand for this tyranny! this is a republic not a monarchy!

wannabett: keep it up and im taking your phone back

hisshissmotherfucker: the oppression continues...

wannabett: sweet pea...

hisshissmotherfucker: fine

[hisshissmotherfucker is offline]

veroffica: now, let's get this party started!

10:03 PM

spillthefogarTEA: hey guys i know this is fun and exciting and all but would you mind congregating out in the living room? ive got some news

hisshissmotherfucker: anything for my best bro

jugheadalones: sure thing

10:07 PM

hisshissmotherfucker + theMANtle

hisshissmotherfucker: hey mantle are you free rn

theMANtle: yeah, you want me to come over to your trailer?

hisshissmotherfucker: yep im on my way there too

hisshissmotherfucker: see you in ten?

theMANtle: none of your friends will be there, right?

hisshissmotherfucker: nah theyre all still at veronicas party they wont even notice that im gone

theMANtle: not that im complaining, but why arent you?

hisshissmotherfucker: i needed a break

theMANtle: so you were hoping that i could help you blow off some steam? ;)

hisshissmotherfucker: that was the general idea

theMANtle: youre in luck, then. i currently have a lot of free time and what many call an impressive amount of stamina.

hisshissmotherfucker: perfect

[hisshissmotherfucker is offline]

10:15 PM

gays united

spillthefogarTEA: hey has anyone seen sweet pea? i could have sworn that i saw him before kevin and i made our announcement but now i cant find him anywhere

nopeaz: hes probably just in the bathroom or brooding in the corner somewhere

hbicheryl: dont worry about him just celebrate! youve officially got a new boyfriend!

spillthefogarTEA: "dont worry about him" have you MET me??

goingtoheller: babe, he probably just got bored and bailed.

goingtoheller: i know that he's your best friend, but he isn't who you're dating--i am. can't you forget about sweet pea for a little while and just relax?

spillthefogarTEA: i guess so

goingtoheller: great!

spillthefogarTEA: ill just text sp real quick and attempt to verify that hes still alive first

goingtoheller: whatever you need to do, fangs. i'll see you afterward.

10:19 PM

spillthefogarTEA + hisshissmotherfucker

spillthefogarTEA: hey sweets, i just wanted to make sure you didnt do anything stupid

spillthefogarTEA: i know that you arent kevins biggest fan, but youre my best friend and i dont want to lose you over him

spillthefogarTEA: i wish you were here to celebrate with me but i get it if you cant

spillthefogarTEA: please, just text me back whenever you see this to let me know that youre okay.

[spillthefogarTEA is offline]

10:41 PM

hisshissmotherfucker: thanks for being so understanding fangs but ngl i dont know if i can handle you dating keller

hisshissmotherfucker: i mean like you said

hisshissmotherfucker: we're best friends

hisshissmotherfucker: so i shouldnt have a problem with you going out with whoever you want

hisshissmotherfucker: but something about him just rubs me the wrong way

hisshissmotherfucker: sorry if that wasnt what you wanted to hear

[hisshissmotherfucker is offline]

Notes: Sorry, this was supposed to just be a long holiday chapter, but I had so many ideas I had to split it into two. Bear with me, please! Also, happy new year, gays! As 20gayteen comes to a close, I hope you find even more peace, prosperity, and (of course) bisexuality in 20biteen!!

[thenovelartist]

Second Chances, Chapter 22

First<< Last< >Next

Red was her color. He swore she stole the breath straight from his lungs every time she answered the door dressed in a red blouse or red skirt or red dress. This time was no exception in an adorable blouse and pencil skirt that was enhanced by a thick belt showing off her thin waist. There had to be at least three different reds in that little number plus the red ribbons falling from her half-updo.

“You are going to kill me,” he said, his voice a bit breathy.

She snorted. “Flatterer.”

“I’m dead serious,” he swore. “You look absolutely adorable, and I all I want to do tonight is show you off. Because there have to be very few men in the world who get to parade around with a woman as stunning you.”

Her cheeks turned yet another shade of red. But his were burning, too, so she wasn’t alone. “I’m serious,” he repeated.

She bit her red lip—honestly, how many shades of red could this woman be wearing yet still look completely put together—and looked up at him with brilliantly blue eyes shadowed by a thick curtain of long lashes. “Thank you,” she whispered. “That’s very sweet.”

He held his hand out for her to take, then led her down the stairs to his car.

“Where are we going tonight?” She asked. “You never told me.”

“A place I don’t go often, yet very much enjoy.”

She quirked a brow at him. “That doesn’t narrow it down.”

“Well, maybe I want it to be a surprise.”

Her smile grew and her eyes sparkled with playfulness. “All right.”

He started the car and braced for her new favorite habit: resting her hand on his knee. Tonight was no exception. Her hand found his knee within moments of him pulling out of the parking space.

When he got to a stoplight, he plucked her hand from his leg, holding in gently in his own. “You love distracting me, don’t you?”

She cocked her head in feigned innocence. “I haven’t the slightest idea what you’re talking about.”

He smirked and shook his head at her. Her smile widened. He pressed a lingering kiss to her knuckles before placing her hand back in her own lap.

She hit him with a flirty smirk that would have knocked him off his feet had he been standing, and then she tapped his nose in a way that completely stopped his heart. “Green light.”

For what? He then turned to look at the light, only to see it shining bright green to go. He put his foot to the gas all while his cheeks were burning.

Her hand found his knee again and squeezed. He sighed. She chuckled.

No matter how much she tormented him, he loved that woman.

He parked the car in the street, then walked hand in hand with Marinette to the restaurant he had planned taking her to.

She gasped. “There’s, like, a month-long waitlist for this place.”

“I know,” he said. “I’ve had this planned for at least that long.”

Her blue eyes were wide as she stared at him.

He smiled, pulling her hand up to his lips. “Only the best for my lady.” He pressed a kiss to the back of her hand.

She then gave him the softest look he could imagine. “Thank you. It’s… wow.”

“That’s what I say every time I see you.”

He could tell a blush was crawling across her cheeks, and he took pride knowing that he was the one to do that to her.

Dinner was delicious. They decided to share their two entrees between them, as was slowly becoming their custom. He decided her entrée was the better dish, but she liked his choice better.

“We’re a pair, aren’t we?” he joked.

But her smile was sweet. She reached across the table to place a hand over his. “Yeah. I like us.”

He grinned so wide his cheeks hurt.

He reluctantly took her home. He never liked parting with her, and he hoped that sometime in the near future, he wouldn’t have to.

They got to the door, and Marinette herself looked like she didn’t even want to touch it.

“Marinette,” he said quietly, drawing her attention.

She leaned closer. “Hmm?”

“You should know,” he said, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her close, “that I love you.”

The words clearly caught her off guard, but he felt those words were long overdue.

Slowly, her surprise morphed to something softer, sweeter, happier. “I love you, too,” she whispered.

His grin was wide and so happy. He was so happy. He wasted no time laying a kiss on her lips.

She was quick to join him, reaching up to wrap her arms over his neck and grab his hair to pull him closer, closer, closer until she was practically flush against him and their lips were firmly locked.

Four, five, six kisses later, Adrien pulled away to press his forehead to hers. “I love you,” he repeated.

“I love you, too.”

He squeezed her tightly, a smile splitting his face in two. “I don’t want to let you go. Ever.”

“I know,” she agreed. “I don’t either.”

He gave her one last squeeze, then placed a firm kiss to her forehead before forcing himself to let her go.

She pouted as he backed away, yet she still pulled her keys from her purse to unlock the door. “Goodnight,” she said.

“Goodnight.”

“Text me.”

“I promise.”

She smiled, then walked inside, officially ending their time together.

Until tomorrow.

…

“What’s wrong?”

Marinette jumped from her skin. She whipped around to see Adrien directly behind her.

“You practically slammed that oven door,” he commented. “And have been storming around the kitchen since I got home. What’s wrong?”

“Nothing,” she dismissed.

He scoffed. “Yeah, I believe that.”

“Really,” she countered. “Nothing. Just… nothing.”

Adrien boxed her in against the counter. “Marinette,” he said. “Please don’t lie to me.”

She shrugged. “Nothing you need to concern yourself with.”

“If it’s bothering you, of course I need to concern myself with it.”

The sincerity in his voice surprised her.

“What’s wrong?”

She sighed. She couldn’t counter him. “I’m just worried about crossing paths with Sabrina tonight. That’s all.”

“You don’t have to be here,” he said.

No, she didn’t. He’d told her many times throughout the week that she didn’t have to stay for dinner. That she could just take a portion of dinner for the night and be on her way before Sabrina came. Yet, it didn’t feel right to leave. “I’m staying,” she quietly said.

“Okay,” he said. “I would like if you did.”

“You always like when I do.”

“I do.”

How his forehead found way to hers, she didn’t know, nor did she know how her hands found themselves on his shoulders. Probably the same way his hands found their way to her hips.

“I should finish dinner,” she whispered.

“Okay,” he said. He leaned forward to place a peck on her lips. “Thank you, Marinette. I very much appreciate that you made dinner tonight and that I’m very proud of you for staying.”

She smiled.

He pulled away to let her finish dinner. She was far more relaxed, happily making her way around the kitchen to finish preparing dinner while simultaneously cleaning up, but a knock on the door sent Marinette on edge again.

No matter how hard she tried, she really didn’t feel prepared to see Sabrina again.

And when she turned around to greet her, she knew she wasn’t prepared, but it was too late to back out.

“Hi,” Sabrina said, her tone betraying just how uncomfortable she was, as well.

“Hi,” Marinette said, giving an awkward wave.

“I haven’t seen you since we graduated. How’ve you been? I mean, besides um…” she quickly grew abashed. “I heard of that… I’m sorry.”

“Thank you,” Marinette said. “I’m becoming okay again. You?”

“Good,” Sabrina said. “I’ve been good.”

And that’s about as far as they got.

Thankfully, Emma came scampering down the stairs. “Marinette, look—” She instantly froze in place upon seeing Sabrina.

“Emma,” Adrien said, kneeling down next to her. “This is Miss Sabrina. She knew you when you were really little.”

“Hi Emma,” Sabrina said, bending over. “It’s very nice to see you. You’ve grown up so much.”

Emma just waved, then scampered over to Marinette and hid in her skirt.

Marinette’s heart swelled. She placed a comforting hand on Emma’s head.

Dinner itself was a little awkward. Emma stayed close to Marinette while Adrien and Sabrina tried to keep conversation going. Marinette did her best to be mature and add to the conversation, but it wasn’t easy. Emma herself was very quiet, only speaking when spoken to. It was clear she was uncomfortable. She didn’t open up like she had when talking to Marinette’s parents for the first time, but at least, she was polite.

After dinner, Emma quickly retreated to her room.

“I’m going to check up on her,” Adrien said. “I’ll be right back.”

Leaving Sabrina and Marinette alone.

“I’m sorry.”

Sabrina’s words caught Marinette off guard. “Pardon.”

“Chloe and I were so horrible for you for no reason,” she said. “And I’m so sorry for being so mean to you.”

Marinette blinked, absorbing her words. “Thank you,” she said.

Sabrina gave her a small smile and nodded. “It’s long overdue.”

“I forgive you,” she said. “Nathaniel forgave you and Chloe a while ago. Without him, I don’t think I would have let it go as quickly as I did.”

“Thanks,” Sabrina said.

A small silence slipped between them, but it wasn’t as tense before.

“I’m glad you’re here for them,” Sabrina started. “For Adrien and Emma.”

“I’m happy to be here for them, too,” Marinette said.

“Adrien says you two are dating.”

Marinette paused, but she couldn’t disagree. “Yeah. We are.”

“He seems really happy about it.”

“I am, too,” Marinette said. “It’s… hard learning how to do this again, you know?”

“I’m sure,” she said.

“But it’s… it’s good.”

“Good,” Sabrina said. “Emma seems to really like you, too.”

Marinette’s heart warmed. “Yeah,” she said, almost dream-like. “She’s so precious. I was so hesitant to take on Chloe’s daughter, but… Emma is the best. I love her.”

Sabrina’s smile grew. “I’m sure Emma’s name isn’t lost on you.”

“It’s not,” Marinette said.

“Chloe was always jealous of you,” Sabrina said. “She always wondered how you could be so happy and wanted whatever you had that made you that way. I’m not saying that’s an excuse to why she treated you the way she did, but I’m saying that’s why.”

Marinette paused upon realizing her words. “What?”

Sabrina nodded. “Yeah. So when she overheard you telling someone one day what you wanted the names of your kids to be, she couldn’t help stealing one.”

Marinette completely froze as her mind slowly processed her words.

“Sorry,” Adrien said, reappearing in the kitchen. “Emma kinda hid herself away in her room.”

“That’s fine,” Sabrina said. “I understand. It was just so nice to see her again. She’s so much like Chloe, but I can see you in her, too.”

Adrien grinned, but Marinette saw how pained it was. “There are days I see nothing but Chloe in her and it kinda blows my mind.”

Sabrina nodded. “I think it’s time I took my leave,” she said. “Thank you so much for having me over. And thank you for dinner Marinette. It was delicious.”

“Thank you,” Marinette said. “It was nice to see you. And I’m not just saying that.”

Sabrina’s eyes brightened. “It was nice getting to see you, too.”

Adrien saw Sabrina out the door while Marinette began cleaning up. She had removed all the dishes from the table by the time Adrien returned. “That went very well,” he said.

“It did,” Marinette agreed. “Surprisingly.”

She could feel the smile Adrien was shooting her, and she pointedly avoided eye contact.

“I see what you’re doing,” he commented.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

She peeked at him out of the corner of her eye, and she saw just how big his smile was.

And that’s when he shifted, wrapping his arms around her waist from behind and pressing his face into the side of her head. She giggled.

“I’ve got the dishes,” he said, pulling her away from the sink.

“Adrien,” she warned, though her smile was growing.

“Hmm?” he hummed innocently.

“Let me wash my hands at least.”

He froze, then released her. He didn’t hover far, though, ready to grab her and pull her away again.

“I have to do those at sometime, though.”

“They can wait until morning.”

She sighed.

And that’s when Emma came patting back down into the kitchen. They stole a quick glance at each other before turning down to Emma. “It’s almost bedtime,” Marinette said, kneeling down before her. “Meaning you are going to need a bath.”

“Do you want me or Marinette to help you?” Adrien asked.

Emma looked back and forth between Marinette and Adrien, her smile pressed into the back of Plagg’s head. “Marinette.”

“Okay,” Adrien said with a grin. “Marinette will give you a bath and then we can read a story afterwards.”

“Okay.” With that, she scampered up the stairs.

Adrien playfully tapped her hip. “Go on. I’ve got the dishes.”

She gave him a smile. “Fine. You win.”

He gave her a proud, winner’s grin that made her laugh.

After the bath, Emma settled on her daddy’s lap in the middle of her bed. But that was only after Marinette joined them.

Adrien read one chapter then Marinette read another. After that, the book was closed, much to Emma’s disappointment. Still, she crawled under the covers as Adrien placed Plagg and Tikki around her. “Goodnight, Emma,” he said, giving her a hug.

“Goodnight, Daddy.”

Then it was Marinette’s turn to collect her hug.

“Goodnight, Mommy.”

Marinette froze again. She struggled to find words. “Why do you think I’m mommy?”

“Because you’re just like mama bear in the book,” she said. “Daddy’s papa bear, and you’re mama bear, just like I’m little bear.”

Her heart felt like it was being yanked around inside her chest, and her smile was warbly. “I can’t be your mommy, Emma,” she started.

Emma’s excitement immediately disappeared.

“Because,” Adrien jumped in. “Mama bear is married to papa bear, but Marinette and I aren’t married, so she can’t be your mommy.”

“Why not?” she whined. “I want a mommy.”

Marinette’s heart was breaking into little, tiny shards at this point. “I’m sorry, Emma. I’m not your mommy.”

With a cry, Emma flopped down on the bed and buried her face into Plagg’s head. Adrien shushed her, and Marinette tucked her in.

“Mommy,” Emma cried.

If Marinette’s heart wasn’t shattered beyond repair beforehand, it was now. “Good night, sweetheart.”

“Mommy,” Emma whined one last time as Marinette forced herself out the door. She shut it, only to hear a new round of tears start up. Adrien was leaning against the wall, his eyes shut and head back. Marinette just stood guilty. Emma didn’t understand. She couldn’t. Yet Marinette felt like one of the mort horrible people to walk the face of the earth for doing this to her.

“I think,” Adrien said, finally turning his head to look at her. “We need to talk.”

Marinette simply nodded her agreement. She followed Adrien down to the living room. She took a seat on the couch, him following suit. They need to have a heart-to-heart, only neither knew what to say.

“I didn’t want to have to make this decision right now,” Adrien finally said, “for your sake. But I know Emma, and she’s not going to stop calling you mom so easily. And I… I’m sorry, but I can’t let her believe you’re mom if…”

“I know,” Marinette assured. He didn’t need to finish. “She’s not even five, yet. She doesn’t understand. Nor will she understand if I become her mom figure and then…” She couldn’t say it. She couldn’t finish that sentence.

But Adrien nodded in understanding. He reached out and grabbed her hand. “So here are my cards on the table,” he said, giving her hand a squeeze and looking her straight into the eye. “I’m not dating you just for the sake of dating. I’m absolutely pursuing you with the intent of marrying you.”

Somehow, those words sent her heart thundering in her ears. She swallowed hard as her vision grew blurry. Wedding. Marriage. A life with him.

A new last name.

Her chest felt tighter by the moment, and she couldn’t tell if it was fear or excitement or some other emotion or some insane mix of all the above. She just didn’t know.

“I know what we have is… well, not quite new,” he said. “But it is fragile, and I know we are taking it slow because you’re still in the healing process, and I fully respect that. But…” Adrien sighed. “I don’t know how to approach this.”

“I know what you’re saying,” she said, her voice weak and whispery. “I understand and agree and…” she swallowed. “I know that Emma comes first,” she said. “I know that Emma doesn’t understand. But I know… I know I either need to be mom or I need to walk out of her life right now. I won’t get that girl’s hopes up, only to crush them in the end.”

They sat in a long silence, the reality of it very heavy. Marinette felt as though the world was on her shoulders because this wasn’t only just deciding if she wanted to be a mommy to Emma. This was them deciding where their relationship was going to go. Marinette felt like it was still too early to call it, but sadly, this was the definitive line. And it was all on her shoulders. Adrien had made his intentions perfectly clear. Now, it was her turn.

“You at least have the weekend,” Adrien said, his voice quiet. “Think it over.”

“I’ll try not to keep you waiting,” she said.

“I appreciate it.”

…

Sleep didn’t help. In all honestly, she felt like she’d been hit with a sack of bricks when she woke. The world was on her shoulders, and she’d cried herself dry last night.

She forced herself up and barely made it to her desk.

Where Nathaniel’s ring lay.

The sight was nearly enough to make her break into tears again.

She’d spent a good portion of the night awake. Wide awake, her body jacked on adrenaline and anxiety and excitement and who knows what else. One moment, she felt like she could move forward, the next she was reminded that moving forward meant Adrien would be her second husband, which felt like replacing her first husband, and she really hated how cheap it made the term ‘husband’ sound when Nathaniel had been so much more than something she was just shopping for or trying to replace and—

She reached for a tissue and immediately broke into tears.

She didn’t know what to do. There was a little girl who loved her enough to call her mommy and a man who treated her like a queen and she was held back by a man who had adored her but was no longer in her life.

The grief books didn’t offer any help to what one was supposed to do in this situation.

She didn’t make it downstairs until well into the morning.

“I was wondering when you’d be up,” her mother said. “It isn’t like you to slee—what’s wrong?”

Marinette plopped down at the table, a pitiful smile flashing across her face. Nothing escaped her mother’s notice. “Emma called me mommy last night,” she whispered weakly.

Her maman paused, then slowly came over to take a seat at the table. “And?”

Marinette bit her lip.

Maman place a hand over her daughter’s arm in comfort.

“I can’t be her mommy,” Marinette began, her voice warbling with tears, “unless I marry her daddy. And… I’m not…”

Before she could burst into tears, Sabine stood to wrap her daughter in a hug. “Oh, sweetheart.”

“I just… I don’t know,” she cried. “I don’t know. I don’t know. I don’t know.”

The tears now flowed freely. Sabine didn’t let Marinette go until the tears finally began to slow.

Eventually, Marinette calmed enough for Sabine to let go. “I only have the weekend,” she said, wiping tears from her eyes with the heels of her hands. “I have to decide because I’m not going to go back if I’m not going to be Emma’s mommy because I just can’t do that to her.”

“Marinette,” her mother warned. “It’s too late. You are Emma’s mommy in her eyes. You leaving is still going to hurt her. It just won’t allow her to grow any more attached.”

Marinette felt absolutely sick to her stomach. “I… I never thought…”

“You’d become her mommy?”

“Yeah.”

Sabine patted her arm. “I knew you’d become close to her,” Sabine said. “When you started this job, I knew you’d be a fantastic nanny. But as time went on, I noticed how attached you got to her, and from your stories, I could tell she was getting attached to you, too. And then you finally brought her over for the Christmas party, and I saw the way she interacted with you. She looked up to you like you were her mom already.”

“I love her,” Marinette admitted. “She’s… she’s so precious and I love watching her learn and grow and going on adventures together—”

“You love being her mother.”

Her words gave Marinette pause, but she couldn’t deny them. “Exactly.”

Her mother gave her a knowing smile. “Then that’s not really what this is about, is it?” her mother pressed. “This is about your relationship with Adrien.”

Marinette bit her lip. “He said he wants to marry me,” she told her. “And somewhere in my mind, I knew that.”

“But Nathaniel,” her maman finished.

Marinette nodded.

“Marinette,” she began. “You know that you two don’t have to get married right away like you and Nathaniel did. For now, you are slowly taking in the fact you are in a relationship, and you’re letting that relationship bloom. And that’s okay. The question shouldn’t be ‘are you ready to marry him’ but instead ‘can you see yourself marrying him’? Can you see a life and a future ahead? That’s the question you should ask yourself and answer.” With that, Maman stood and pressed a kiss to the top of Marinette’s head. “And when you answer that, then you’ll know what to do.”

Her maman was halfway out of the apartment when Marinette spoke up. “But what if Adrien and I don’t work? What if we break up down the line.”

Sabine turned to give Marinette a doubtful look. “I seem to remember a young bride on her wedding day who was breathing into a paper bag, terrified that she was too young to be married and wondered if her marriage would last.”

Marinette blushed bright red.

“You know what makes me so certain you two aren’t going to break up?”

Marinette shook her head.

“The fact that you already are a family.” With that, Sabine walked out the door.

Leaving Marinette to think heavily about her words.

[team-science-mega-nerds]

30 Miles East: Chapter One

This was starting to become a problem. Not just because she was doing it alone, but because she couldn’t stop. It was an even mix of loneliness and boredom that was pushing her to go from closing her apartment door to pouring a glass of whiskey every single day. Before, during, and after dinner she found herself holding that same glass, sometimes on refill number six before she actually slumped down on her couch and dozed off.

That was on a good day. Other days she found her thumb hanging over Maggie’s icon in her contacts - a picture of Maggie wearing Alex’s alma mater’s sweater, a picture that Kara took when she was doing her annual donation to Goodwill run and insisted that Alex needed a fresh wardrobe - but she never actually called. Or texted. She just let the thought fade into the next drink, and then the other, until she woke up the next day drooling on the floor, already late for work.

Vasquez was the first to say something. Not about the drinking of course, but about Alex’s tardiness. It was pretty well known that Alex did not do late, or sloppy, but over the past few weeks, she’d been both. Vasquez spun around to face Alex on a particularly mundane day and frowned. “Shower much.” That was Vasquez. To the point, a bit of snark, a few years spent floating under the radar meant she had to be the voice of reason, or no one would. Alex scoffed, but when Vasquez returned to her array of computers, Alex lifted up her arm and took a whiff.

Alex had forgotten to shower last night because she was eight drinks deep, and this morning she barely managed to crawl her way into her clothes, let alone make herself presentable. “Shut up.” But Alex knew that Vasquez was right, and she knew that she was slowly beginning to lose herself in the bottle.

This was all way too familiar.

She didn’t want Kara to have to drag her out of the gutter. She couldn’t stand the look on Kara’s face if she had to call her over to hold her hair back and carry her to bed. She had spent the past few years, building and re-building their relationship. First, it was to find a way to work with Supergirl, and then it was to find a way to come out, and now everything seemed to be about Kara figuring out who she really wanted to be. Alex couldn’t let her problems get in the way of that, not again.

So Alex got on her Ducati - drunk - and drove to an AA meeting in some terrifyingly quiet suburb of National City. She couldn’t ever risk seeing someone she knew, that would ruin both her personal and professional life and besides she was entirely certain that this was just a one-time thing. Alex just needed to see a bunch of sad people who had ruined their lives, so that she would feel bad enough about herself to move from six glasses a night to two.

As she approached the building, she quickly came to the realization that it was a church, and she kicked herself for clicking on the wrong link in her drunken state. At least it was in the basement, so Alex didn’t have to feel like she was going to be smited the moment she trailed down the stairs.

When she actually walked into the room she noted the table lined with donuts, cookies, coffee, orange juice, and...pizza? She remembers back in her partying days when J’onn had taken her to AA a few times in the city. The most they ever had was stale coffee and dried out donuts. This almost made the trip out to the smaller community worth it.

The second thing she noticed was that this meeting was tiny in comparison to the way they were packed into chairs like sardines at her old meetings. There was no parole officer making them sign their forms at the start, middle, and end of the meeting so they could prove to the judges that they were actually complying with the court ordered regulations. There was no podium, no AA handbook sitting at the front of the room, waiting to be read. No junkies waiting outside to meet up with their wayward friends. No slight smell of urine. No leaky ceiling. No way to hide.

This was going to be a long night.

“Help yourself to some snacks. Barb’s husband made the cookies.” Alex turns when she hears the warm voice directed toward her. It startles her, which is surprising. Usually, Alex’s leather jacket, motorcycle helmet dangling from her hand, and stoic face is a turn off for the more chatty alcoholics. But this guy smiles at her, and so she’s forced to give him an approving nod, as she makes her way to the table.

She eyes the cookies, which do actually look very good, and grabs a few, sticking one into her mouth as she heads over to take a seat. Alex slides her helmet under her chair and tries not to look as awkward as she feels, but the chairs are set up in a circle, and that means that Alex can’t just sink in her seat and zone out.

She starts to seriously begin questioning her motives and morals when a business suit-clad woman takes a seat across from Alex. She’s on the phone, half-whispering, half-trying-not-to-smile, and Alex is completely stunned. Not just because Alex is thrown off by how beautiful this woman is, but also because Alex now has to spend the next two hours trying not to look at her.

Barb, as it turns out is celebrating her sixth year today. Everyone seems thrilled, and even Alex finds herself smiling as the cookie guy - known by the rest of the world as Andre - brings out a little cake, and leads them all in singing happy birthday. It all isn’t singing and cake though. Alex does actually learn a bit about this lady named Catherine when she shares her story with them. She has a really funny way of saying her ‘A’s that makes Alex think that she might be from Metropolis or something, but her story is interesting. Long winded, but she has a sort of raw honesty that seems to knock the room off balance. Alex likes her. Or at least she likes the fact that Catherine isn’t as scared of herself as Alex is of her own shadow.

No one asks Alex to share, which is a good thing. Because after sitting for so long, somehow she feels drunker, and she isn’t certain that she wouldn’t slur her words if she spoke up. She does get a chance to hear the beautiful woman’s name though. It’s Sam, and she just moved here with her daughter, and she’s starting her new job the next day. Andre pats Sam’s shoulder and tells her that she’ll love it in National City, and Alex has to bite her tongue so that she doesn’t blurt out some stupid thing about how the suburbs aren’t really the city like some kind of elitist.

The meeting then turns into everyone sharing their favorite thing to do in the city, and Alex straight up cackles when Catherine says that her favorite thing used to be drinking a giant 64-ounce margarita at the pub on 28th. “You’ve never been to The Red Lion then.” Alex accidentally says.

“Oh shit, yeah, they’ve got good stuff too,” Catherine exclaims. Andre quickly steers the conversation back to typical AA things before the meeting is over. It’s only then that Alex sort of replays what she said earlier, and figures that she probably slurred “never been” in a way that made it sound more like nevaben. She wants to facepalm but that wouldn’t do much now, so she grabs her helmet, and heads back to the food table to grab a few cold slices before she leaves.

Alex is in the middle of double stacking two slices and taking a huge bite like some kind of Kara when Sam eyeballs the six pieces left in the box. “Did you bring the pizza? My kid waits up for me, and second dinner is never a bad idea.” Alex’s mouth is so full that she has to choke down a mountain of cheese for a few seconds before she realizes that she doesn’t have to actually speak, and instead she just shakes her head ‘no’.

“I think Barb might’ve brought it,” Alex suggests.

“Cool, I’ll ask her.” Sam shuffles her way back through the room to catch up to Barb before she leaves. Alex slips out relatively unnoticed, except when she and Andre do an awkward little dance by the door as they try to walk up the stairs at the same time. He reminds her of the meeting times and tells her that on the weekends they have two meetings on Saturdays and Sundays, probably because he’s not an idiot and can smell the liquor on Alex.

She starts to feel like a particularly heinous breed of monster but pushes down the feeling by reminding herself that she actually did something okay by showing up somewhere other than a bar for a change. Just as she’s swinging her leg over her bike, she spots Sam carrying a box of pizza and jogging - in heels - toward her. “Hey, you...uh…” Alex holds off on putting on her helmet, while she waits for Sam to stop looking so frantic.

“Alex.”

“Right, Alex...I um…” Sam is not good at making Alex feel comfortable. Her awkwardness is about to become contagious, and Alex knows in that moment that she will never be coming back to this meeting ever again. “Okay, so you’re drunk,” Sam says very matter of fact and Alex sort of wishes that the awkward and unsure woman would return. “I can call you a Lyft if you want.” Alex resists the urge to blow up at Sam. She wants to tell her off, to say something like fuck you, I’m not drunk, but lying to a fellow alcoholic about alcohol is a bit tacky, and it would never work.

“Okay.” Even though she knows it’ll be a pain in the ass to have to come and get her bike tomorrow, at least she’ll have a reason to go to another meeting, and there’s no way that will hurt. Alex tries not to look at Sam, because she has a serious fear of being a disappointment to strangers, but when she finally does look, Sam actually appears to be kind of...proud? “What?”

“I thought I’d have to fight you on that.” Sam shakes her head. “Here, put in your address.” Sam hands Alex the phone with the Lyft app up on it. After Alex types in her address, she hands the phone back to Sam who looks very surprised. “The city? Wow, you’re what, like thirty minutes out of the way?”

“It goes quick on the bike,” Alex says with a shrug.

“You live right by where I’m gonna work,” Sam says kind of offhandedly. Alex knows that the woman is lingering, and it’s driving her crazy.

“I know how to get into a car, you don’t have to stay,” Sam responds by rattling off something about her phone location, and some other poor excuse about why she has to stay. It’s because she doesn’t trust Alex. It’s because she thinks that some idiot who’d show up to an AA meeting drunk would also flake, and get herself killed driving home that way. Or at least Alex thinks Sam thinks that but there’s also the possibility that she was just this caring, and this nice, and that was a bit unsettling for Alex.

“Was this your first time?”

“No. You?”

“No.” Sam drums her fingers against the pizza box. “I’ve been on and off for a long time, stress brings things on in waves for me, and with the move, and new job, and...well you get it.”

Alex does get it. “It works if you work it.”

“You don’t believe that.” Sam bites the inside of her cheek.

“So, what? It seemed like you needed to hear it.” Alex shrugs. She can see the Lyft driver getting confused about which driveway to enter, so she slides off her bike, and gives Sam a small nod. “I owe you.” It’s a half-assed thing to say to someone she might not ever see again, but Sam smiles anyway.

“Be safe.” That feels oddly maternal, Alex thinks. Then she’s quickly reminded as Sam heads over to a minivan that Sam’s a mom, dumbass, so of course, she would be going out of her way to take care of some total stranger. When she slides into the back of the car, the driver eyes her through the rearview mirror.

“Sam?” Alex nods is lieu of explaining that she’s tipsy, and probably couldn’t drive home, and that’s why she accidentally hit her helmet against the seat when she got in. Alex just slumps against the door and closes her eyes on the long ride home.

Alex returns the next evening. She has a massive gash on her arm from a rogue alien escape, and the bandage she’s wearing is bleeding through, so she plans a route to stop at a drug store on the way home. Before she can hop on her bike and get the hell out of there, Catherine locks her car and motions toward the church doors. “Ever had Pączki?” Alex is very caught off guard until she sees a glass dish covered in foil in Catherine’s hands. “Fucking delicious, I swear.” So Alex ends up following her inside and staying for the meeting and the seven Pączki that she wolfs down throughout.

She does feel bad that she makes it to game night late, which causes an uproar on behalf of Winn who was banking on reprising his role as banker for Monopoly before Alex could swoop in and claim it. But Alex has a scheme going with Lena to slip her extra cash, and as soon as Lena sees Alex step through the door she exclaims, “Thank god, you’re here. I thought I might actually lose.”

Winn sinks so low in the couch that James considers putting a pillow on top of him so that Kara will sit on him when she returns from the kitchen, but he decides that Winn’s already too upset to do so. Instead, James nudges Winn over so that Alex can sit down. “You’re lateee.” Kara sing-songs, but she’s holding out a take-out box of lo mein toward her anyway. “Where were you?” Alex takes the box and plops down on the couch next to Winn.

“Out.” Alex shrugs.

“Is that code?” Winn stage whispers to James. Alex kicks his ankle, and he reacts with a loud yelp.

“I was grocery shopping.” Alex lies. No one even catches the lie except Lena who’s looking at her in an entirely nonjudgemental, but curious way.

Even if Kara suspects that Alex only ever grocery shops for liquor, she doesn’t say anything except, “I hope you got those cheesy puff things.” Unsurprisingly, Alex knows exactly what Kara’s talking about, and she makes a mental note to pick up two bags on her way home tonight.

Monopoly is fun, like always. Lena almost gets pressured into emoting halfway through the game ruining her calm-cool-and collected streak of six weeks. But she quickly recovers and absolutely obliterates James to the point of Alex subtly wondering if they’re still dating. Alex loses early because she’s way too focused on trying to slip Lena money and not drink that she forgets that strategy is actually a part of the game.

Alex doesn’t mind losing, but it does leave her a decent chance to catch up on what’s going on in everyone’s lives. Winn has been using Tindr a lot lately, and he has some pretty hilarious stories about this guy who wanted to roleplay as Superman. Kara covers her entire face with a pillow, while Lena makes some comment about how Supergirl has better arms, and Alex punches Kara so hard in the shoulder that she actually thinks it hurts.

There’s so much laughing going on that Alex legit has to excuse herself so she can wipe the tears off her face. When she emerges from the bathroom, Lena is standing there looking as shy as Alex has ever seen her. She didn’t even know Lena could be nervous until now. “What?” Alex sounds harsher than she means to, but by jumping the gun on defensiveness she’s quick to scramble out an apology before Lena takes offense.

Because Alex actually likes Lena. She thinks she smart, and brave, and she thinks that she was hilariously naive to ever think that Lena of all people was one of the bad guys. “Do you think I could invite someone else to game night?”

“I’m not taking attendance, Kara is. I don’t mind.” Alex thinks about that again, “as long as it’s not a guy. I don’t want James to start making jokes about even odds.”

“Don’t worry. She’s just someone I work with.” Lena assures Alex. “I just wanted to ask you first. Kara might be in charge of game nights, but I know you’re protective.” It only occurs to Alex later on that Lena was saying that because she doesn’t feel like she’s really a part of the group. Which is ridiculous because Kara would literally die for Lena. And Alex might too.

So when everyone’s grabbing their things to head home, and Winn is throwing out suggestions for next week like he always does, Alex lingers long enough to walk out with Lena. When they make it outside, Lena doesn’t call her ride just yet. “We should have game night at your place sometime,” Alex suggests.

“Really?”

“Yeah, it’d be fun. And Kara wouldn’t have home court advantage during Pictionary.” Alex adds the last part because she knows it would make Lena laugh, and it does. “Plus, I have to go through the hundreds of rare books you probably have lining your walls.”

“You’re a nerd.”

“Look who's talking.” Alex rests her helmet on the back of her head for a moment. “We gotta find another way to cheat by the way. Your boyfriend is onto us.” Lena’s face falls.

“We’re not dating anymore.”

“Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean…”

“It’s okay,” Lena says with a shrug. It kind of hits Alex all at once that love and relationships are fleeting. After Alex gets on her bike she goes to the store, buys those cheese puff things, and a bottle of whiskey.

Alex avoids AA for a bit after that. She’s too ashamed to admit anything to anyone just yet, so she just kind of floats through the days without relying too much on anything or anyone. Vasquez is racing Winn to hack into a subsector of Cadmus when a thought hits Alex like a freight train.

“Do you like games?” Alex asks Vasquez. Vasquez keeps typing, but her fingers trail through her hair like she actually needed to consider the question. “Or movies? Or like...people?”

“Yes?”

“Ooooh, are we playing twenty questions?” Winn interjects. “What’s your favorite food?”

“Shut up, Winn. I was just asking to see if Vasquez wanted to come to game night.” It terrifies Alex to think that they’ve been casual friends for so long, but she never actually thought to invite her. Actually, everyone who was ever there came because of Kara. “What do you say?”

“Sure.” Alex could see the gears turning in Vasquez’s head. “Kara has asked me a few times actually, but I didn’t want to intrude.”

“No way, you’re not intruding,” Winn assures Vasquez with a warm smile.

“Thanks.” And then Vasquez out hacks Winn with ease, causing Winn to kick his chair back, but high five Vasquez on her technique anyway.

Alex is relatively surprised that the week has gone by so fast. But that’s what happens when you spend hours doing nothing and drink hours away. But Alex is relieved when Kara texts her that there’s been a change of plans, and they’re actually having game night at James’. Moments later Winn texts her explaining that Kara had flown through her own window because she heard a kitten crying outside, and now he and Kara would be late because they needed to get kitten stuff.

Alex rolled her eyes and knocked on James’ door. When Alex is let in with a hug, Alex remembers that she hadn’t been to James’ apartment for at least a year. It was much larger than Kara’s place, but it felt just as homey outside of the sleek framed photographs all around.

Vasquez shows up next, and she looks very happy that Alex is at least there, because she doesn’t really know much about James. Vasquez brings a fruit platter which Alex thinks is hilarious, but James looks genuinely thankful, and Alex wonders if he knows how to be mean.

They don’t even have to see Kara to know that she’s there because she’s practically screaming as James opens the door and lets Kara, Winn, and a little black and white shorthair kitten into the apartment. Vasquez actually does scream, and everyone finds out that she’s the proud mom of four cats named after the planets - Venus, Jupiter, Mars, and Pluto. Alex is seriously seconds away from calling Lena so that she can actually start making fun of people for being total dweebs, but Kara is thrusting the cat in her face, and she has no choice but to become a surrogate mom for a few minutes while Kara sets up the food and water bowls.

When there’s a knock at the door again, Kara makes her answer because James is pulling out homemade tarts - because of course he is - and Kara thinks that Alex looks hilarious holding such a tiny bundle of joy, when she’s a bundle of grumpiness. Alex doesn’t care, because she’s slowly falling in love with the kitten, and she’s all but certain that everyone already knows that.

Nothing can ruin her mood until she opens the door, and sees who’s standing behind Lena. Sam. Sam from AA. Sam who Alex was never supposed to see again. Lena’s intuitive, so she knows that Alex’s reaction is because of Sam, and no matter how quickly Alex tries to cover it up with a welcoming smile, Lena still knows.

“This is Sam,” Lena says. “Sam, this is Kara’s sister, Alex.” Sam nods like she’s playing along with some kind of game, and Alex wants to grab her and quickly explain the rules before she enters the apartment.

“Lena, there are blueberry tarts!” Kara yells from where she’s standing beside James. “And a cat.”

“Yeah, I see.” Lena extends her hands and guilts Alex into handing her over. They all enter the room, Sam eyeing Alex curiously as she does so. “Everyone this is Sam.”

“Hi, Sam.” They all say with varying degrees of interest. Kara takes the lead and starts giving Sam a quick elevator pitch about everyone in the room. When she gets to Alex, she says, “And Alex is my big sister. She works in security. FBI actually. She’s also a doctor, technically.” Kara is obviously too excited to keep track of her lies, and Alex is almost certain that she’s eventually going to out herself as Supergirl tonight. Which is actually the least of Alex’s current worries. Right now, Alex is basically a bundle of nerves, terrified of Sam saying something about AA.

It is anonymous, but still.

“The pizza’s are ready too, guys. Dig in.” James points at Kara. “Save some for the rest of us.”

“No promises,” Kara says already stacking a few slices onto her plate. “We’re playing Cards Against Humanity,” Kara adds before she moves onto grabbing another plate.

“But there’s no skill involved in that game.” Winn wines.

“The skill is a sense of humor,” Vasquez says, and Alex already loves having her there to berate Winn while she’s too busy having a mental breakdown.

“Can you believe he made fruit tarts? Regretting that breakup yet?” Alex jokes.

“Wait, that’s James?” Sam says, her jaw practically hitting the floor. “You never told me how hot he was.” Sam nudges Lena. Alex laughs and grabs herself a plate.

“I did, you just never listen to me.” Lena reminds Sam, and it’s very clear that these two have been friends forever if their unsubtle bickering is any indication. Lena ends up holding Alex and Sam up by the food, while Kara and James explain how the game works to Vasquez who has apparently been living in a hole.

“Alex, I got your favorite whiskey.” James hollers from the couch. Alex knows because she’s been eyeing it the entire time Lena has been pouring herself a glass of wine.

“Thanks.”

“I’ve got whatever in the cabinet, Sam, if you want something.” James sincerity is creating a tension that only Sam, Alex, and apparently Lena can see.

“I’ll just take water, I have to drive.” Alex admires her ability to hold back, and she’s sure that telling a bunch of strangers that she’s an alcoholic is probably very daunting. Alex still pours herself a drink and refuses to look at Sam for the entire night.

And, of course, it turns out that avoiding Sam’s gaze is impossible. She’s funny, quick as a whip, and smart as hell too. Lena obviously downplayed things when she said she was bringing an employee, because Sam was the new CFO of L-Corp, and she was a steal according to Lena. Sam fit in remarkably well, and even Vasquez seemed comfortable joking around with her.

Kara won, which surprised no one. Her good nature and the fact that she was from a different planet actually made her more ridiculous, which was the key to winning. Alex finally gets the cat back from Lena, and about halfway through the game, the kitten is sleeping on her shoulder causing Kara to squeal and take about a hundred pictures.

After the game they move on to watching some 80s horror film, which everyone is into except Sam, so Lena takes pity on her, and the pair retreat to James’ study to talk. Alex doesn’t really feel like she belongs in either room, but Lena has the scotch, so she follows them. “So how was day one?” Lena asks.

“You were there. It was great, mostly. That one guy...with the hair?”

“Austin,” Lena supplies.

“Yeah, he got me caught up really fast. And Jess? Oh my god, she’s amazing.”

“Told you.” Lena takes another drink. “It wasn’t too much? Or too overwhelming?” Sam leans back, amused by the sincerity of Lena’s concerns.

“She’s babying me,” Sam tells Alex. “Lena, I loved it. I love you. You were right, I needed a change.”

“I just want to make sure you’re okay.” Suddenly Alex feels like she’s intruding.

“She’s worried that I’ll go off the deep end again. Last time I crashed my car into a pole and broke my kid’s arm.” Sam’s words come out harsh, and Alex is taken aback by the outburst. Lena isn’t. “Sorry.”

“Don’t be,” Lena says, squeezing Sam’s hand.

“In terms of fuck-ups, you’re in good company. I’m a total fuck-up, and Lena’s fuck-up adjacent.” Alex says it with a fond smile, and she likes that Sam actually appears to be more relaxed.

This time Alex doesn’t have to strategize her exit. She just sort of ends up in the same elevator as Sam, and they happen to be parked pretty close in the lot for James’ place. It takes ages for Alex to actually get the courage to say anything, let alone what actually comes out, “I’m sorry.”

“For what?” Sam isn’t playing naive, it’s a genuine question.

“You needed an ally in there. I should’ve been it.” Alex sticks her hands into her pockets. “To be honest, I have no idea why I went to that meeting. And I really...I appreciate you helping me out the other day, I just-.”

“It’s called anonymous for a reason. I won’t say anything,” Sam assures Alex. “Catherine organized this bowling thing, and she was like a Polish phenom. And she and Barb’s husband have been rotating on the snacks, and Andre is worried that it’s starting to become a competition because last Thursday Barb brought in an entire turkey.” Sam laughs at the memory, Alex laughs too because she thinks that Sam’s rant is as charming as it is hopeful. “You don’t just come to an AA meeting because you stumbled thirty minutes east and ended up in the basement of some church. You came because you think you need help. So...accept help sometimes, or did they not teach you that in FBI-security-doctor school?”

“I’ll consider it.”

“Good.” Sam smiles and unlocks her car door. “On that note, Lena is coming down here, and calling you a cab.”

“What?”

Alex turns when she hears high heels clacking against the ground. Suddenly Lena is handing the cat to her along with a bag filled with cat food, toys, a litter box, litter, and two silver bowls. “Kara says the cat is yours now,” Lena says with a frown. “But I named her Xena, and as my friend, you have to at least give me that.”

“Fine.” Alex happily takes Xena, thinking about how this is probably the closest she’ll ever come to being a parent. And with those dark brown eyes staring back at her, she almost thinks that it might be enough.

support me here

[juliette-hastings]

Dancefloor / Bathroom - Juliette x Gabrielle x Chase

Chase: Chase sighed and told the girls he would see them later, he found Juliette on the dance floor with her date. He knew it would make Gabrielle more comfortable, he waved her over again. "Truce on the Chanel thing for a night? Elle is nervous around the cheer girls" said Chase to the girl. 

Juliette: "Whatever" said Juliette to Chase and rolling her eyes at him before flashing a big mayor's daughter smile at Gabrielle and raising her voice a few octives, "Gabrielle!" she said and gave her friend a hug.

Gabrielle: Gabrielle was fine watching him. She watched as the cheer girls walked away and Juliette appeared she walked in over. “Why did they leave?” She questioned. “Hey Jules.”

Juliette: "This is my date, Jeremy? The one I was telling you about?" said Juliette as Jeremy gave Juliette a kiss on the cheek, "We're having a great time, aren't we?" he said to her, "Jeremy" he said waving kindly to Gabrielle. "Yeah, thanks Jer" said Juliette facing away from him and rolling her eyes. "Wow, it's like a double date" said the girl with fake excitement. 

Gabrielle: "Oh!" Gabrielle said with a big fake smile. "Jermey."(germy) She said mis pronouncing his name, on purpose. "Juliette, maybe you will come to the girls room woth me? I need to check my hair."

Juliette: "Jeremy, I gotta go. Girls will be girls am I right?" said Juliette heading out with Gabrielle. Chase shrugged and hung out with Jeremy like a good boyfriend. "Thank god, that guy is all over me" said Juliette as they entered the girls bathroom.

Gabrielle: Gabrielle took Juliettes hand. Once they were a bit away Gabrielle laughed. "Wht the fuck was with that kiss." She said laughing. "And what the hell is he wearing." She added in. "I can text Chase to get rid of him."

Juliette: "He's an idiot" said Juliette, "I think he thinks we're dating. I don't even know what to say" the girl added as she adjusted her pony tail in the mirror. "I have a pony tail in, my nails are short, and my dress is an homage to a niche movie. How else can I say that I'm gay?" said Juliette a little frustrated. "He's also dressed so dumb" she didn't understand why her parents did this to her. Well she knew, but she didn't like it.

Gabrielle: "Ew, what the fuck." She said as the got into the bathroom. "No wonder why he had to get a date set up for him." She said shaking her head. "I mean, I would havenever guessed you were gay.. until I did." She said with a laugh. "She opened up her purse and pulled out two small bottles of fire ball (the mini personal ones) "You want one?"

Juliette: "I mean yeah, I get told that a lot from people who know. I just get frustrated because it feels obvious to me" said Juliette, still feeling the alcohol from earlier. "Absolutely" she said taking the little fireball. She took it in two sips, "That is um ... a flavor" she said wincing.

Gabrielle: Gabrielle nodded. "I hate there is a stereotype between appearance and sexuality." She said with a shrug. She smiled as she gave her one bottle and twisted off the top of hers, downing it in one shot. "Cinnamon, isn't it good?" She said with a smile. 

Juliette: Juliette coughed, "No it's really good, it's just wow I was not expecting that. But it does taste better than like tequila" said the girl. "Wow, you really are a party girl at heart" she said looking at the only girl who didn't even flinch. 

Gabrielle: "It can burn a bit at first." she said with a nod. "This is my favorite. I love fioreball, you can also mix it with rum chata and it makes a cinamon toast favor." She said. "Yeah, from the dark days." She said with a laugh. "Well now is more dark days then back then but here we are."

Juliette: "Definitely feeling that, but tonights my first night drinking liquor. So it's all new" said the girl, disclosing that she was a big weenie. "What do you mean that now is more dark?" she asked, wondering what the girl meant.

Gabrielle: "Well then, I am very proud of you. We will turn you into a residental party girl soon." She said giving her a nudge as she took out another mini bottle. "Do you want another?" She asked. Gabrielle shrugged. "I could date chase freely, my parents knew I was a struggle so they just let me be eventually. Now they are micromanaging my life. But that all doesn't matter because we are having a good time." Chase and Genevieve were the only light left for her.

Juliette: "No I'm good" said Juliette, nervous that she had already had too much. "Why don't they let you two date? He already lives on your property" asked Juliette, sort of confused by the whole thing.

Gabrielle: Gabrielle nodded as she popped the top and down the second one, it burned a little. "Exactly." She said with a nod. "He lives on my property, they go away a lot. They don't want us having sleep overs and having sex all the time because they are little jesus lovers and all this dumb shit." She said rolling her eyes. They did have a valid reason though, Gabrielle was fifteen when she was first pregnant.

Juliette: "My mom's pretty religious, my dad does for show" said Juliette, remembering she wasn't supposed to air her family's dirty laundry. She looked under the stalls, thank god they were alone. "That all makes sense though, but I bet you two just do whatever you want" Juliette replied, happy that Gabrielle was in a good mood and a happier person again. "Also did you see that Chanel's dress looks like mine? I was about to have a melt down" said the girl, just venting at this point.

Gabrielle: "I personally think My moms in it for the money but they seem happy with eachother, both as greedy as the other." She shrugged. "Yeah, espceically when they go away, it makes things so much easier." She said with a smile. "Yeah it's similar, but shes just out here telling the world shes easy. She really needs to try and find clothing that fits her properly."

Juliette: "I stalk her instagram so thoroughly. I'm really nervous my dad's going to get her the same presents he gets me" said Juliette touching up her pony tail and making sure there were no loose hairs. "It's just so insane, like what's next? Her moving into my house?" she said with a groan.

Gabrielle: "Wait..." She looked over at her. "Are your dad and her mom dating?" She was under the impression it was just sex. "Why hasn't your mom divorsed his ass and kicked him out yet, if she moves in you can stay with me, we have the room." 

Juliette: "I mean they're basically dating. I have no idea what's going on. I can only guess" said Juliette, her anxiety had definitely blown it up even more than it was in reality. "I don't think they'll ever get divorced, this is just a blip ... as my mom says" said Juliette, her eyes just kind of empty.

Gabrielle: "Disgusting." Gabrielle said as she tossed her head over her shoulder. "Who in their right mind would date a Hampton." She said shaking her head. "Well hopefully the blip passes and you can rid your family of that."

Juliette: "I don't even know, she only dates taken guys. Just like her mom" said Juliette rolling her eyes. "That's what me and my mom are hoping for" the girl replied, "time to face the music, and Germy" she said heading toward the door, "you coming?" she asked. 

Gabrielle: "Nasty." She said simply. She was very against cheating. "I guess so... maybe we can avoid germy. I actually want to have a good time." 

[5hfanfiction]

Trainwreck (Chapter 2)

Lauren is awaken by the sound of her alarm clock blaring through her ears on a beautiful Monday morning. The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and the black haired teenager can smell the delicious aroma of her mother cooking breakfast downstairs.

However, Lauren feels like shit.

Instead of watching the Grammys last night with the rest of her family like she had planned, Lauren had been forced to stay up until four o'clock in the morning, studying for an important History exam that she has to take today. For the entire night, all she could concentrate on was the sound of her mother, brother, and sister cheering downstairs while watching what was probably the most entertaining Grammy ceremony in history. Meanwhile, she was locked up in her room, revising all of her notes on World War I and World War II.

God, I am so going to fail, is the first thing she thinks when she opens her eyes.

After lying in bed for a few minutes, Lauren decides to check her phone for any messages. When she picks it up and realizes that she can hardly read any of the words on the screen, she groans before turning back to her bedside table and grabbing her pair of thick rimmed glasses. She puts them on and gently pushes them up her nose.

She’s pleased when she notices that she has a text from her best friend Ally, who she’s known since kindergarten.

Ally💖: Loloooooo!!! I’m picking you up from your place in an hour. Make sure you’re ready or I’m ditching your asssss

Lauren stifles her giggle by covering her mouth with her hand. Because Ally is the oldest in her friend group, she’s her first friend to acquire her driver’s license. As a result, her two other best friends, Normani and Dinah, rely on her for rides to school as well.

Lolo🤓: Alright babe!! See you sooooon :)

When Lauren looks at her clock and sees that it’s already 6:45, she decides that it’s time for her to get out of bed. She removes the sheets from her body and shivers from the cold of the early morning before getting up to make her bed. Her bed small and covered in stuff animals that she’s had since she was a little kid, but Lauren smiles anyway. She doesn’t feel the need to change anything about herself. After safetly tucking her stuffed animal named Nala between her pillows, she makes her way to the bathroom to take a shower and brush her teeth.

While in the shower, the green-eyed teenager recites parts of her History lesson to herself. She knows how important the test is for her 5.0 GPA, so she makes sure she knows her shit.

After stepping out of the shower and putting on her robe, Lauren stands in front of her tiny closet to think about what she should wear for the day. Jeans or a skirt? she thinks to herself while holding each article of clothing up to her body. A few seconds later, she decides that her mid thigh skirt would be best. Now for the top. Does she want to wear short or long sleeves? Lauren walks back to her bed where her phone lies and picks it up to check the weather. When she sees that the temperature will mostly be in the high 80s for the day, she decides that she’ll definitely need to go with the short sleeves.

After getting dressed and combing her long, wavy hair, she takes a moment to look at herself in the mirror. She smiles and small smile because for the first time in a long time, she thinks she looks nice.

Suddenly, Lauren is startled by the sound of her mother calling her name from the bottom of the stairs.

“Lauren, honey! Breakfast is ready!”

“Coming, Mom!” she yells back. Lauren gives herself one last look in the mirror before grabbing her things and heading downstairs.

When she reaches the kitchen, she is greeted by the sight of her younger brother and sister sitting at the table, both of them devouring a plate of pancakes and bacon. For a few seconds, they don’t even notice she’s there. It’s only when Lauren says, “Seriously? You guys started without me?” that they acknowledge her presence.

Chris looks up from his ginormous stack of pancakes before giving Lauren a soft smile. “Sorry, sis. We were starving and you were taking too long.”

Lauren frowns and takes a piece of bacon off his plate before throwing it in his face. “Hey!” he exclaims as Taylor chuckles beside him. A second later, he picks it back up and throws it back in his older sister’s face.

It’s in that moment that Clara finally emerges from the spot in front of the stove with two plates in her hands: one for her and one for Lauren. “Come on guys. You know we don’t throw food in this house,” she says as she gives her children a pointed look.

“Sorry, Mom,” Lauren and Chris say simultaneously as they laugh again.

When Clara takes her seat at the table and hands Lauren her plate, the teenager feels her mouth water and licks her lips. Her mom was the absolute best cook.

“Hmm, Mom this is so good,” Lauren says as she sticks a forkful of pancakes in her mouth. Her siblings nod their heads and hum in agreement.

“Thank you, Lauren. Now hurry and eat up. Ally should be here to pick you up soon,” she says she she checks her watch. It’s now 7:00 and Ally usually picks Lauren up at 7:30.

The family of four sits in silence for a few minutes as they devour their breakfast. All that could be heard is the sound of forks and knives hitting the glass plates and the sound if their loud chewing. After a little while, Taylor decides to break the silence.

“Hey, Lauren. Did you hear about your ex-girlfriend breaking the record for the most amount of Grammys won in one night ever? She won like 11 of them,” she says while chewing on a piece of bacon.

Lauren rolls her eyes and scoffs. “C'mon Taylor… You know I don’t like talking about her.” She pushes her plate away, suddenly having lost her appetite. “And I’d really like it if you stopped referring to her as my ex-girlfriend.”

“But that’s what she is.”

“Taylor, that’s enough,” Clara interjects. “Her name is not allowed to be mentioned in this house.” Clara suddenly loses her appetite as well just at the thought of the cruel girl that broke her daughter’s heart. The two girl have known each other since birth, but the pop star still ditched the green-eyed girl once she became famous.

“But I didn’t say her name! I said ‘ex-girlfriend.’” Because Taylor is still only twelve years old, she has problems knowing when it’s time to shut up. In addition to that, because she’s always stuck in her own mind, she fails to notice her older sister getting increasingly pissed off in the seat across from her. The black haired girl’s hand is gripping her fork so hard, that her fingers begin to turn red.

As Lauren tries to calm herself down and slow her breathing, she accidentally drops her fork. It clanks loudly against the wooden table, making the three other people in the kitchen flinch. The green-eyed girl then pushes herself away from the table, making the chair scrape loudly against the floor, before standing up from her seat abruptly.

“Um, I have to go. Ally is probably waiting for me outside,” she says, not even able to look her family in the eyes.

“But honey, it’s only 7:15. She won’t be here for another fifteen minutes,” Clara says, her voice laced with worry.

Lauren sniffles and gently wipes some of the unfallen tears from her eyes. She couldn’t believe that Taylor had been so insensitive. It’s only been a year since she broke things off with the superstar, so she’s clearly still very heartbroken. The mere thought of the brunette brings the girl to tears, never mind the fact that Lauren could never truly get away from her. Camila is always on the radio and on television. She can’t even escape her at school because all of the students are obsessed with her.

“I know,” Lauren finally replies. “I just don’t want to keep her waiting,” she says unconvincingly.

As she makes her way to the front door after making she has everything she needs, she hears Taylor softly whisper, “I’m so sorry Lauren. I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings.”

Lauren immediately whips her head around to look at her little sister. Her eyes are downcast, and she looks incredibly guilty as she plays with her fingers under the table. When she looks as her mother and brother, she sees that they are both giving her a sad and pitiful look.

“I know you didn’t.” Lauren sighs. “But you did anyway.” After saying this, she finally makes her way out the door before closing it shut.

When she checks her watch and sees that she still has ten minutes until Ally arrives, she decides to take a seat on her front steps and plug in her earphones. The music streaming into her ears soothes her, and she finds herself swaying back and forth. She chokes back tears as she unlocks her phone to read the title of the song she is currently listening to.

I Have Questions.

Even though she hates Camila for what she did to her, she can’t deny how unbelievably talented the girl is. Despite what the younger Latina ended up becoming, Lauren can’t help but feel proud of her. Eleven Grammys in one night. Wow.

Just listening to her music takes Lauren back to the day she convinced Camila to post her first cover on YouTube.

Seven Years Ago

Lauren and Camila are ten years old. They’re giggling as they build a fort in Lauren’s tiny bedroom after a long and tiring day at the park. Even though the two girls are exhausted, all they want to do is spend more time together. They are so young, but they are already so in love with each other.

Camila and Lauren have known each other since they were babies. All of their parents went to school together and remained friends after graduation. So naturally, their kids got along well.

The parents first find out that the two little girls have a deeper connection than what is considered 'normal’ when they are five years old. The two best friends always played house together, but nothing between them ever seemed like pretend. They would always play the two mommies, and even kissed each other on the mouths like their parents did. When asked why they only ever played house instead of tag or hide and seek, they both responded that it’s because they want to marry each other.

So here they are, at ten years old, deeply in love. Once they’re finally done with the fort, the little girls hop inside, both of them drunk with happiness.

After they’re gone getting settled down, Camila pulls out her guitar and takes a seat across from her girlfriend. “Lauren? Can I play you a song?”

Lauren quickly nods her head and giggles, causing her glasses to slide down her face. She scrunches up her nose, trying to push them back up without using her hands, but to no avail.

“Here. Let me,” the younger girl says between fits of laughter. Camila tucks a loose strand of hair behind the emerald-eyed girl’s ear, before gently pushing the glasses back up her nose. Lauren reaches across their intertwined legs and takes Camila’s hand in gratitude, giving it a tight squeeze.

“Camz… play the song already!” she says as she releases her hand. Her girlfriend would need both of them to play the guitar.

“Okay, okay. I’m a bit nervous though,” Camila says with uncertainty in her voice.

“Don’t be. You never have to be scared around me.” Lauren gives the girl an encouraging smile. “Now play.”

After nodding and taking a deep breath, Camila closes her eyes and finally begins to sing.

“Oh, her eyes, her eyes make the stars look like they’re not shining Her hair, her hair falls perfectly without her trying She’s so beautiful And I tell her everyday.

Yeah, I know, I know when I compliment her, she won’t believe me And it’s so, it’s so sad to think that she doesn’t see what I see But every time she ask me do I look okay? I say

When I see your face There’s not a thing that I would change 'Cause you’re amazing Just the way you are

And when you smile The whole world stops and stares for a while 'Cause girl, you’re amazing Just the way you are.”

Once she finishes the song, Camila smiles shyly and sets her guitar down. When she looks back up at Lauren, she sees the shocked expression on the little girl’s face.

“Wow Camz… where did you hear that song?”

“Um… I wrote it. I wrote it for you Lolo, because you’re always worrying about the way you look, and I wanted to make you feel better,” Camila says timidly.

As they look into each other’s eyes, they can’t help but be overwhelmed by love. Things between them were perfect, almost too perfect, and they feared the day that something would go wrong.

“Camila… that is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me.” Lauren scooches closer to the younger girl before placing a delicate kiss on her cheek. “I love you.”

Camila blushes and smiles bashfully before saying, “I love you too.”

For a few minutes, the girl’s just stare at each other with love in their eyes once more. They are so happy to have each other, and in that moment, they are sure that nothing could ever tear them apart.

“I just got the brightest idea!” Lauren suddenly exclaims, breaking the silence. “What if you recorded yourself singing that song and put the video on YouTube?”

Camila looks at her girlfriend strangely and furrows her eyebrow in confusion. “Why would I want to do that?”

“So you can get famous. Duh,” Lauren says, as if her answer was obvious. “You’re the most talented person I’ve ever met, Camila. If anyone I know can become a superstar, it’s you.”

“Do you really think that?” Camila asks doubtfully. “Do you really think I’m good enough?”

“Of course you are. You need to have more faith in yourself.”

Camila takes a deep breath before looking back at the beautiful girl in front of her. “Okay, I’ll do it. But only for you.” She leans in and places a sweet kiss on Lauren’s lips. When they pull away, Lauren giggles, and the sensation of butterflies in her stomach intensifies. “But if this doesn’t work out, I’m blaming you.”

“Trust me, it will.”

…

Lauren is torn out of her thoughts by the sound of Ally loudly beeping her horn. She clicks the home button on her phone to check the time and sees that it’s 7:35. She blinks, shocked at the fact that she had blanked out for fifteen entire minutes.

“Coming!” she yells as Ally honks her horn once again. She quickly wipes at her tears and makes her way to the car.

When she jumps in, she notices that Ally, along with Normani and Dinah, who are seated in the backseat, are looking at her with concerned expressions on their faces.

“You okay there, Lauser? You looked like you were in another dimension back there,” Dinah says and chuckles nervously.

“Yeah DJ, I’m fine,” Lauren says unconvincingly. “Just stressed out about this History test.”

Although her three friends continue giving her a weird look, not another word is said.

…

“How do you think you did?” Normani asks Lauren as the four girls make their way out of the classroom.

“I think I did okay,” she answers. “I’m just not really focused today, I guess.” Lauren keeps her head down as they all make their way to the cafeteria for lunch. Her day had started off really horribly, and all she wanted to do is curl up in a ball and sleep.

“Why?” Ally asks. She’s able to hear their conversation between the two girls because she and Dinah are walking right behind them. Ally had always been considered the mother of their friendship group, so whenever one of the girls were down, she tried her best to cheer them up, like she’s doing right now.

“Taylor just said some things to piss me off this morning. It’s no biggie.”

“Okay, Laur. But you know that you can talk to us whenever you need to right? We’ll always be here for you,” Ally says with a frown on her face. She’s known Lauren long enough to know when she’s upset, and she knows that that is currently the case.

“I know Ally. Don’t worry about me.” Lauren puts on a fake smile before saying, “C'mon let’s go eat. I’m starving.”

As the girl’s enter the cafeteria, they notice that something is definitely amiss. Literally everyone is glued to their phones as they all look at their screens in shock. Across the crowded area, Lauren sees a group of girls jumping around and screeching in excitement.

What the hell is going on?

Ally, Normani, Dinah, and Lauren exchange confused looks and shrug, silently communicating the fact that none of them have an explanation for the scene that is currently unfolding in the cafeteria.

When Lauren sees one of her acquaintances, Zendaya, approaching them, she gently pulls her forward by the arm and says, “Hey, Z. Do you have any idea why everyone is freaking out right now?

Zendaya gives the green eyed girl an incredulous look. "Seriously? You guys haven’t heard?”

Lauren and the rest of the girl’s shake their heads slowly. “We just came out of the History exam,” Dinah explains. “Seriously. What is happening? Did someone die?”

“No!” Zendaya exclaims. “Camila Cabello got arrested!”

Lauren’s excitement deflates as she rolls her eyes. Seriously? That’s what had everyone so riled up?

“So?” she asks with a confused expression on her face. “Why does that matter?”

“Because, Lauren…” Zendaya tilts her head back and closes her eyes, almost like she’s daydreaming. “She’s coming back to Miami. She’s gonna attend Miami High for the rest of the school year!” she says in excitement.

As they look around the room and see the rest of the student body partaking in what looks like a celebratory dance, Lauren, Ally, Normani, and Dinah’s jaws drop simultaneously.

Oh. Fuck.

…

[artificialqueens]

If I Could Ch. 3 (Trixya) - Saltine

AN: that’s right, after just two short days, ya girl Saltine is coming right back at ya with another chapter of Trixya garbage (that’s turning out to be very much “slow burn” but i digress). This chapter is a little bit longer and a little bit more angsty but i’m overall proud of it and hope that you like it too.

The next morning, Trixie woke up alone. There was a note from Katya on her bedside table that said,

I didn’t get abducted, my sister came and got me. Text you later. <3 Thanks for a great night, Tracy ;)

- Kat

After that, they didn’t talk about what had happened at that party. The two of them pushed it to the back of their minds and tried to forget about it, but the more time they spent together the harder it was getting for them to ignore what they were feeling. By the time September rolled around, all their friends had moved away. September brought a new atmosphere to Trixie and Katya’s lives. The feeling of childlike happiness and lack of responsibility that comes with end of summer had disappeared and felt as though it had been replaced with an overbearing reminder that they had to grow up. Even the weather began to shift slowly from warm and glowing, to desaturated and crisp. Like all the life in their town had been somehow drained when everyone left. They were all they had left, and they became all but inseparable. Both Trixie and Katya considered themselves somewhat reserved when it came to opening up and getting close to people, but for some reason neither of them felt any inhibitions about the other, though they had only been friends for two months. But sometimes you just feel connected to someone immediately. Sometimes things are just meant to be.

<> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <> <>

Katya woke with a start from an accidental nap to the sound of her phone ringing. She checked the time before checking her phone. It was 5:46. Whoops. The phone call was from Trixie. Katya was apprehensive; Trixie never called her. Something must be wrong, she thought, and answered the phone.

“Hello?” she asked. There was a sharp intake of breath from the other end of the line. “Trixie? Is everything ok?” Katya was getting nervous.

“Hey Katya,” Trixie cleared her throat, though from the tone of her voice she was clearly upset. “Um..I’m fine I just uh…” she trailed off.

“What’s going on Trix?” Katya pressed.

“I uh..kinda just came out to my parents,” she said. There was a pause.

“Wow..” said Katya. “I mean I want to congratulate you, but you’re not making it sound like it went too well.”

“Yeah um..my mom was fine but my stepdad wasn’t..too excited about it,” Trixie began. “He’s not kicking me out of the house or anything. He just got really passive aggressive and when I left the room he and my mom started fighting and now they’re screaming at each other and I’m just kinda scared and this wasn’t supposed to happen..” she was talking so fast now that she was running out of breath.

“Hey, hey it’s ok man, everything’s gonna be fine. Can you safely leave your house right now?” Katya asked, trying her best to calm Trixie down, who sounded like she might be crying now.

“Yeah, I can go out the back,” she replied quietly.

“Good. Then drive over to my place and I’ll cook dinner and we can celebrate how brave you are over here ok? I’ll tell my mom to make brownies. It’ll be fun,” Katya said.

“You’re the best. Thank you,” Trixie said tearily.

“Don’t mention it. See you in 10.” Katya hung up.

When Trixie knocked on the door, she was greeted by Katya’s mother. They had met once or twice and had so far gotten along well. Katya’s mom was a tall blonde woman named Roksana, who spoke with a faint Russian accent and had the most welcoming, warm personality of anyone Trixie had ever met.

“Trixie! So nice to see you! Come in!,” she exclaimed and Trixie did as she was told. The house smelled fantastic, a mix of herbs and spices that swirled through the air and made Trixie’s mouth water. She made her way into the kitchen where Katya was cutting up a tomato on the counter. She smiled at Trixie as she walked in and gave her a tight hug.

“So glad you could come,” she said. “My dad’s out of town for work so it’s just us girls tonight.” Her voice lacked the kind of sarcastic, humorous tone it usually had when talking with friends, Trixie included. Everything about what she said felt sincere, and Trixie suddenly felt a million times better. She watched as Katya’s nimble fingers continued to press the blade of the knife into the tomato on the chopping board and she suddenly felt a sharp pang of homesickness. It was a strange kind of homesick, though. It wasn’t that she wanted to go back to her house and be with her family; it was that it suddenly felt like this moment was the home she had always wanted. It felt like she had finally found herself a home and she felt a twinge of pain for all the years she wasted being in a house that made her so unhappy. Trixie stood there in the middle of the kitchen, as the sun shone through the window in thick, glowing orange stripes and the smell of a home-cooked meal circled around her, and felt a tear slide down her cheek. She was so grateful to have found something so easy to love.

Katya set everyone’s plates out on the table as her younger sister Anastasia came running down the stairs.

“Why are you lying to Trixie like this, you know we never actually make the table,” she said.

“Shut up Anya,” Katya replied playfully.

“Girls, let’s eat. Stop fighting in front of our guest,” Roksana said, beaming at Trixie. Trixie smiled back and picked up her fork. Katya had made alfredo, which was delicious and also very surprising to Trixie, who was sure all she knew how to make was cereal.

“This is amazing Katya,” she said.

“Thanks, I learned from the best,” Katya replied, nodding towards her mother.

“You’re lucky, the most my mom ever cooks is when she puts frozen pizza in the oven,” Trixie said. She hadn’t though what she said was particularly funny, but Roksana and Katya burst into laughter. They had the same laugh, Trixie noticed.

“So Trixe,” said Roksana. “I heard you told your parents some uh…big news?” She winked at Trixie who froze and whipped her head around to look at Katya.

“You told her?” she asked, somewhat frantic. Katya seemed completely unfazed.

“Yeah, my mom is super cool with it. I came out to her years ago and besides, I tell her everything.” Trixie was in shock. Roksana nodded in agreement.

“I know it’s a little strange given how Russians arent exactly known for..um…accepting people, but that’s why I left.” she said. “When I found out I was pregnant with Katya I wanted her to grow up in a place that was tolerant to everyone. And it’s a good thing too, look at her.” she said and laughed. Katya feigned a look of defensiveness.

“Jesus mom, I’m gay, not ugly,” she said.

“I would disagree,” Anastasia interjected. “Also, you’re bisexual.”

“It’s an umbrella term you little punk,” Katya hissed. The humor in her voice was back and Trixie watched as the family in front of her playfully bantered back and forth until they were all finished eating.

“Trixie and I are gonna go upstairs. Let us know when the brownies are done,” Katya said. She grabbed Trixie’s hand and lead her up the stairs to her room. Trixie didn’t ever spend that much time in Katya’s room when she was here, they had usually been outside on the patio or in the extra room upstairs where she had a giant TV and two sofas. But Katya’s bedroom had always been one of her favorite places in the house. It was a big room, but it felt cozy with all the knick-knacks that had piled up on the dresser and the desk and the bedside table. The walls were painted an sort of muted brick color, like fresh clay and they were covered in drawings and paintings that Katya had done herself. She was a fantastic artist, but never told anyone. It felt like a bedroom should feel. It felt like somewhere Trixie could easily fall asleep.

“So…you feel any better?” Katya asked. She had really hoped to take Trixie’s mind off of her family.

“Much better. Thank you so much again, it really means a lot,” Trixie said. Katya patted the spot on the bed next to her, beckoning Trixie to scoot closer to her. Trixie did so and let Katya put her arm around her shoulder supportively.

“You deserve better than what your parents are giving you. You did a really brave thing and I’m so proud of you. We all are. If you ever need somewhere safe to go you’re always welcome here,” Katya said. She pushed down the feelings she felt bubbling up inside her. This wasn’t happening because she liked Trixie. She was just supporting her friend. Of course she loved Trixie, but just platonically. She didn’t want anything more than this, she told herself. Trixie deserved better than her anyway.

Trixie was crying now, silent tears painting rivers of mascara down her face. Katya used the edge of her sleeve to wipe them away and cupped Trixie’s face in her hands.

“It’s gonna be ok,” she said, and rubbed her cheekbone with her thumb. Trixie let her head fall against Katya’s chest and the two of them laid there in silence for several blissfully painful moments before Trixie’s phone received a text from her mom.

Trixie, baby. I’m so sorry honey, we shouldn’t have fought with you around. I love you very much and I know Steven will come around eventually. You should get home soon though so I can give you a hug. You’re still my daughter and I wouldn’t trade that for the world. See you soon sweetie.

- Mom

Trixie caught her breath and showed Katya the text.

“That’s good! See, I told you it would all be ok!” Katya said and Trixie laughed weakly.

“I guess I should head out then, huh?” she said. Katya nodded.

“Text me when you get home.” Trixie grabbed her jacket and headed downstairs, saying goodbye to Roksana and Anya, and getting in her car. As she pulled out of the driveway, Katya leaned her head out the second floor window and waved to Trixie, who waved back and blew a kiss. As she lay down to go to bed that night, after having a long, tearful talk with her mother, she stared at the ceiling and thought about Katya, wondering how a single person could feel so much like home.

[jo-the-schmo]

Breaking... Ch.17

Masterlist (will update for needed parts soon)

Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16

A/N: Bet you weren’t expecting this so soon were ya? Aren’t I just full of surprises? I never sleep!!!!! Also I tried something new with the tags so hopefully it works!! I regret nothing

Wordcount: 2016 (neat)

Warnings: Fluff, cute, then blood

Tags!: @iamnotthrowingawaymyshit @renae-writes @deltablue202 @literally-melonkitty@meunicorn @favouritefighting-frenchman @demi-godamit @gum-and-chips@sweaterkitty-fluff@pinkyiger7@littlemissshortcakes@msageofenlightenment@unprofessional-inhumanbeing@fandom-panda-221@hummusandchips @spoopy-piineapple@ashwolfcub@myself-and-the-madman @sweet-fate@superwholockbooknerd526@frozengal2013@lmaodedhaha@itsmikayblr@sarmar29 @arya-durin-77 @phantastic-fandoms@hoshihime98@shinigamired @martapetrovic @robotic-space@iamnotthrowingawaymyshit2(lol) @asprinkleofmermaids @pinkyiger7(I’m tagging you twice my friend!) @satellitesuga @rose-coloured-nihilism  @okie-dokie-artichokeme (I love your URL omg)

 if anyone else wants to be tagged just send me an ask!

Breaking Agreements

Johnny tugged at the bottom of your dress, trying to get your attention.

“Mama says we should give your present now, I’ll go get my drum.” It took you a moment to realize what you were talking about. Aww I did say this would be better with a drum! Angie interlocked your arms once more.

“Come on everyone! TT, Mama and I have something to you in the music room!” AJ and Jaime got up off the ground and ran toward the hall where Eliza was already heading. You saw Johnny slowly going down the stairs, his little snare and sticks in hand, being careful not to drop anything. Wow, he got that fast! He must be excited! Angie pulled on your arm. “Let’s go TT!” Alex stood up and patted his daughter on the head.

“I’ll go with you, sunshine girl, follow me.” Alex winked at Philip who was standing behind you. What was that about?

“Okay, Daddy!” Angie let go of your arm, her and Alex walked off to the hallway, well actually, Angie skipped but not the point. You felt something touch your waist, the same thing press against your back lightly.

“Have you already forgotten about me, ma petite chou?” Philip whispered in your ear. You jumped slightly, turned yourself around, your face heating up all over again.

“Why you have to go and call me a cabbage like that?” You blurted out, he chuckled softly.

“You are quite radiant when you’re flustered, my star.” He smiled. “I have a gift for you as well, but you will have to find it after I see yours.” He turned you back around, keeping his hand on your waist while leading you forward.

“I have to find it? What does that even mean?” You asked with intrigue.

“You’ll just have to wait and see.” He spoke softly. As you finished squealing internally you approached the music room door. The two of you walked in together, everyone already ready and waiting. Eliza was seated at the piano, Angie and Johnny were standing on opposite sides of her. Johnny already had the strap on his drum secured, the drum leaning on his side. AJ, Jamie and Alex were sitting on the small couch closest to the piano.

“Took you two long enough!” AJ exclaimed.

“What’s going on anyway?” Alexander asked.

“We just have something very special to show you all!” Eliza smiled.

“I’ll go stand by father.” Philip informed. You were suddenly struck with an idea, as he walked away you snatched his hat off his head once more. He turned around with surprise. “Do you have a thing with stealing my hats now?” He asked and you smiled deviously.

“I need it for something, I am about to do something great!” You laid the hat on top of your head and made it point up slightly. I shall now become George Washington; I’m going to make Chris Jackson proud! You trotted over to the middle of the room while Philip walked past you and sat next to Alex. You cleared your throat. “Is everyone ready?” You asked and were met with several yeses. Eliza got ready on the piano.

“Alright Angie, John; Un…deux…trois!” She stared with the first chord and you began your song.

“I was still older than you all now, when I gave myself a command. I may have led myself straight into a massacre, I have witnessed death first hand. I made every mistake and felt the shame rise in me. And even now I lie awake knowing history has its eyes on me.”

(Whoa…whoa, whoa…) Angie and Johnny sang along, Johnny tapping his drum lightly.

“History has its eyes on me…” You stepped slowly over to the couch, stopping in front of it and putting one arm behind your back. “Let me tell you what I wish I’d known, now that I know love and dream of glory. You have no control who lives, who dies, who tells your story!” You patted Jamie and AJ on the head, smiled at Alex and stepped toward Philip. “I know that we can win, I know that greatness lies in you! Because you’ve taught me from here on in, history has its eyes on you!”

(History has its eyes on you!) They held out. Everyone began to clap and Eliza turned her gaze toward you.

“That was our best run yet!” She exclaimed. You looked down at Philip.

“What’d you think, Sunshine?” He stared up at you, silent for a moment. “Philly?”

“I think…you have the most beautiful voice I’ve ever heard in my entire life! And you look better in my hat than I do! And I look really good in that hat, so.” He stood up, brought his hands to both sides of your face, pushing the hair out of the way. His fingers grazed your cheeks and made your skin tingle. You saw his eyes dart from your right eyes, to your left and then down to your lips. Oh my God, is he going to…? OH MY GOD THIS IS HAPPENING! What do I do?! Do I lean in? Do I stay still?! His eyes kept moving in the triangle pattern as his face came a little closer to yours. Before you could actually do anything, you felt the hat on your head be lifted up. You looked to the side to see Angie placing it on top of her own head, it was far too big on her but the feather fit her style more than Philip’s.

“Oh, look at me! I’m Philip Hamilton! After all these years, I have found my beloved! Mon amour! Ma petite chou!” She put her hands on her cheeks and made teasing kissing noises. FUCKING SHIT! ANGIE I LOVE YOU BUT NOW WAS NOT THE TIME! “You know…I quite like this hat. It makes me look like a leader!” She put her hands on her hips proudly. She tipped the hat up and skipped away, sticking her tongue out as she went. Everyone else just sort of collectively looked at each other and got up.

“Well! Time to get some tea!” Alex clapped, almost signaling for everyone to leave, and they did, leaving you and Philip alone to stew in the awkward remnants of what just happened. Both of you simultaneously took a step back from each other, red faced and mumbling. It was terrible.

“Uh, so yeah um, that uh…”

“Yeah, um…so what did you say about needing to find a present earlier?” You laughed nervously, trying to change the topic. Make this torture end!

“Right! That! Well, you’ll have to find it! I’ll tell you which room it’s in but that’s the only hint you’ll get okay?” You nodded and followed him as he walked out of the room, into the hall. “It’s in the study, let’s go!” The two of you quickly made your way over to the study doors and let yourselves inside. If I were Philip, where would I hide a present? Considering you were the smarty pants that you were, it didn’t take much effort for you to figure it’s in Alex’s immense Shakespeare collection. You went over and examined the shelves scrupulously. All’s Well Ends Well, As You Like It, Anthony and Cleopatra, Cornelius, Hamlet, King John, Love’s Labour’s Lost, Macbeth, Merry Wives of Windsor, Midsummer Night’s Dream, Othello, Romeo and Juliet, Midsummer Night’s Dream, A Winter’s Tale- You stopped. Wait a second. You took a second look and found what made you take a double take. Two copies of Midsummer Night’s dream. The one you recognized had gold text but the new one was more silver looking. You picked it off the shelf. “Damn, you found that fast, Star!” Philip exclaimed, leaning against the bookshelf.

“You…you got me my favorite…” You whispered in disbelief.

“Yes, I thought it must be a bit annoying not being able to take it over to your room… I was buying books for school, saw this and knew you had to have it…” He scratched restlessly. “B-But that’s not all! There’s a page marked in there! Well a few actually…Go ahead and open it!” You opened the cover and the pages bump up slightly, you flipped to where this bump ended and saw something. A pressed, slightly discolored pick of baby’s breath. You looked up at Philip.

“Is…is this…?”

“The same flower from our night in the garden? Yes, it is. But that’s not the best part, look at what I marked.” He instructed, you looked back down at the page, moving the wildflower out of the way.

Lovers and madmen have such seething brains,

Such shaping fantasies, that apprehend

More than cool reason ever comprehends.

The lunatic, the lover and the poet

Are of imagination all compact:

One sees more devils than vast hell can hold,

That is, the madman: the lover, all as frantic,

Sees Helen’s beauty in a brow of Egypt:

The poet’s eye, in fine frenzy rolling,

Doth glance from heaven to earth, from earth to heaven;

And as imagination bodies forth

The forms of things unknown, the poet’s pen

Turns them to shapes and gives to airy nothing

A local habitation and a name.

You looked back up at Philip, slightly confused. “A lover and a madmen are quite similar, what changes them is how they are written. You have faced many madmen, and they will be written as such. However, I will never be your madman. I will write and fight and shape what I am, if it would make you smile. Someday, you will blow us all away, because you blow me away every moment I’m with you.” You look up and see Philip’s face and he is helpless. And his eyes are just helpless. There were so many things you wanted to say, so many things you wanted to do in that moment… You felt a ping rush through your head. No…Not now! Not again! Your head was aching and you felt your pupils dilate over and over again. You felt your hands shaking and looked down at the holding the book. The pages were now old and withered, no longer brand new but the baby’s breath looked like it had just been plucked from the garden. Looking past the book you saw grass on the ground, the wood flooring completely gone. You dropped the book and raised your gaze toward Philip. The sight was familiar but that didn’t make it any less horrifying. There was a pistol in his hand, blood all over his arms and right side, his stare looked blank.

“Phil…ip…s-sunshi….ne” You tried to yell, to cry out, to do something but the blood in your veins was boiling and it made your head feel like it was burning alive.

“I held my head up high…” He said with a gaunt expression. There was a voice, you didn’t recognize it but it sounded masculine.

“Madman, madman, madman, madman, madman, madman, madman. Lover, lover, lover, lover, lover, lover, lover. Change, change, change, change, change, change, change.” It kept bouncing around in your head, it pushed through your skull and back in again.

“But even before we got to ten…” Philip whispered again. You looked past him and saw figures in black, you couldn’t identify them because they were running back and forth but you could hear the voices. You always did.

“Where is my son?”

“Who did this? Alexander did you know?”

“Stop! You won’t take me! Philip! I need you! Help me!”

“Sept, sept, sept, sept, sept, sept, sept…” Philip mulled.

“Is he alive?”

A blood curdling scream.

“I am not traumatized! I love her! RoseMary! Save me!”

You felt something wet drip down your face and felt yourself lose sight from your right eye, then your left. In this black abyss, it is the only place you’re truly safe, a place of in between. There was nothing there, no one could hurt you, no one could harm those you loved. As long as you were in that Purgatory, nothing wrong could be done. But you always had to wake up.