#// sorry school's killin ya!

[iamdevouring-god]

I HATH RETURNED HELLO >:D

-wall crawler

(school is murdering me)

Ġ̸̗͉̻̯̦̑̍̐̏̑͊̑̕͠r̴̡̬̙̥̪͎̃è̴̯̘̎͊͊͑̒͗e̷̫͂̑̐̆t̶̜̹͎͌̍̐̆͝ì̵̟̈́̊̉͌̈̄̏̏n̵̢̝̣̰͑̀͑͒g̷̨͎͉̭̦͈̭̿̌̽͐̏͒͝ṣ̸̜̙͗̏̆̐̾̈́͝ ̸͇̞͉̭̝̖͇͈͚͔̓́̌̀̀̃̕͝ơ̶̧̹͍͕͑͆̍̍͜ǹ̸̮͙̗̳̦̝͕̒ç̸̛̻̺̜̝͚̼̝̲̝͑̅̈́̀̑͠͠ė̸̙̟͎̲̇̍̈͐͗̈́͂ ̶̢̢̠̬̫̹͙̼̕a̸̪̲͖̻̻̦̅̇g̷̢̜͙̣͕͍̘̃͝ă̸̡͎͙̦̳̾̉̿̓̾i̸̪̼̠͇̞̦̗̲͌̄͆͂̀͠͝͝ͅń̴̢̡͚̝̣̜̱͔͚́̇̕͝!̴̟̘͗̒̕

(Greetings once again!)

[gurorori]

everskies users when ya post an opinion they disagree with in a forum literally called wats an opinion ya have dat most ppl disagree with.....

[hobie-enthusiast]

FATES AND CANONS !

— hobie brown x gn!reader

— hobie brown and his six canon events

— angst, fluff, comfort, no happy ending (kinda?), petnames, major character death (twice, including reader), pretty long fic, might go against some comic canons, anarchist reader, cutesy kisses

— let’s play spot the tv girl reference 😜 anyway sorry for the delay ive been traveling, got sick, and now school starts next week, woohoo. so enjoy this for a little :)

The first canon event Hobie Brown experienced was being bitten by a radioactive spider.

But of course, that much is known. It’s the origin of every Spider-person in every dimension. That story has been over-told.

The real stories come from the preceding canon events, one that though every Spider-person goes through, it’s story-worthy each time.

—

The second canon event Hobie Brown experienced was the death of his best friend.

This friend was someone so dear to him, one he met at his lowest times on the streets. They picked each other up, helped each other out, and always had each other's backs. His best friend had big dreams just like him; stop the corrupt system of the Prime Minister and uplift the voices of the minorities. And his way of doing that was joining the police force, working on the inside to break it down and show others that the government is corrupt. Hobie had a friend on the inside, and together, they were able to stage protests and riots that were completely unbothered by the troops, thanks to his friend’s rank as captain.

Until he got infected with Norman Osborn's toxicity.

Hobie didn't realize it was him. He was bringing down those pigs left and right with his soundwaves, fighting for his side. He thought that there was no way he was in this. He was stronger than that.

But then he finished them all, and when the black goo disintegrated from the bodies, he saw that all-too-familiar person.

Hobie Brown had killed his best friend.

He was quick to run to his side, hands trembling. "Shit mate.. 't wasn't supposed t' be you."

"Hobie..?" His friend questioned, only then laughing quietly. "Hmm.. shoulda known my best mate t'was the coolest super in the world."

Quickly, Hobie moves his friend to a secluded alleyway, where he can take his mask off. There, his friend can see the way tears prick the corners of Hobie’s eyes. No one ever really sees him cry. This was a sight, a sad one at that.

"'m so sorry.." Hobie whispers.

His friend shakes his head. “Don’t be. Ya did good.”

Despite those words, Hobie couldn’t help but feel deeply guilty. He was just trying to do good? Why did this happen?

He was Spider-punk. Wasn’t he supposed to be able to save everyone?

“Ya gotta keep doin’ this.”

Hobie’s thoughts were interrupted as his friend grabbed his arm, gaining his attention. He was way worse looking than a couple seconds ago. Blood pooled around his stomach. Hands stained red from coughing it up. He wasn’t going to make it. Hobie knew that.

“Not killin’ your best friend, obviously.” He laughs at his own joke weakly. “But fightin’ for the people. They need ya, Hobie.”

Hobie nods in understanding. He promised him he would. It was always easier to make a dying person such bold promises. But Hobie could never give up on helping the people.

Even as his best friend takes his final breath, Hobie swore to protect the innocent. Even if he can’t save everyone, he’ll try his hardest.

Because that’s what he promised his best friend.

—

The third canon event Hobie Brown experienced was meeting the love of his life.

It was post concert; spirits were high and everyone was dying to meet the lead guitarist. Hobie’s onstage presence was something to marvel at, one that everyone adored.

You were no exception. You noticed the way Hobie was seemingly getting lost in the music. He was so passionate about his music, about what he performed. You admired that, truly. Not many musicians nowadays care about having a good onstage presence. Even with a band.

Lucky for you, your good friend was the bassist for the band. He was the one who invited you tonight, who wanted you to meet the band. He came out from backstage after the show and lead you to the dressing room.

“Alright mates, this is [Name].” Your friend points out each band member, stating their names before realizing something. “Aye, where’s ‘obie?”

His band didn’t seem to know, but you just shrugged it off. Though, you couldn’t deny the small sliver of disappointment that came with not meeting him. Soon, you excused yourself to grab some water, exiting the room.

What you didn’t expect was to run into someone.

“Crap, my bad. Didn’t see you there!” You immediately apologize, glancing up at the stranger.

Except it wasn’t a stranger. It was Hobie Brown. “‘s alright, swee’heart. No hard feelin’s.”

Hobie, after the show, decided to grab something to drink. He played a good show at the pub, so he rightfully thought he deserved it. But people were getting irritating, being touchy and pushy. He didn’t really appreciate that, and soon went backstage to find his bandmates.

When walking down the way, he said hello to a couple of the crew members. They were always considerate, doing their job correctly. Surely they deserve at least a wave and a verbal confirmation Hobie saw them.

Then, his spider-sense started tingling. Glancing around, he was quick to realize there was no true threat. But then he ran into you, and time seemingly stopped.

At the time, Hobie couldn’t describe the feeling of seeing you for the first time. It was like a part of him connected for the first time. You were a missing piece that he never knew he was even missing. But why did his senses go off for you?

“Actually, you’re Hobie, right?” You question, pointing up at him. “I’m a friend of the bassist in ‘ur band. It’s nice to meet you.”

Hobie muses. “Pleasure’s all mine, darlin’. C’mon, ‘ll take ya back t’ ‘em.”

The guitarist would be lying if he said he didn’t take you in the wrong direction for a little while. He wanted to get to know you more. And you weren’t complaining. Hobie was an incredibly charming guy.

The rest of the night was spent chatting with him. You couldn’t seem to leave him alone, and Hobie couldn’t keep his eyes off of you either. The two of you worked well together, and everyone in the band seemed to notice.

So Hobie slipped his number into your pocket, giving a kiss on your cheek. Bold, sure, but he had to make his move. Nobody has ever made him feel this way.

He can’t let you slip from his fingers.

—

The fourth canon event Hobie Brown experienced was giving up his mask.

Being Spider-punk was not everything Hobie cracked it out to be. He was constantly putting himself in danger, and you in the process. Everything was just so tiring. He couldn’t take it anymore.

He finally caught his breath after a confrontation, sliding down against the wall. He panted heavily, clutching tightly on his guitar. He barely made it out.

“Fuckin’ ‘ell..” He muttered, coughing and hacking.

Hobie Brown was tired of this. He stood up, taking off the parts of his suit that came undone. Searching for a nearby garbage, he found one. Then, Hobie simply shoved his suit into it messily.

Staring down at the bin, he slung his guitar on his back. Then he just.. walked from the alleyway, never taking a second glance back.

The walk back home to you was long, considering he didn’t swing there. But when he made it, he let himself into the door, placing his guitar on the table. His eyes caught you in his peripheral vision.

You glance from the counter, giving a smile. “Hey, Hobes! How was-” Your words fall short at the solemn expression he wore. “What happened?”

Your boyfriend stayed silent as he came up behind you, wrapping his arms around your waist. “Nothin’.. ‘s all done..”

“Done? What do you mean?”

He sighs, face in your shoulder. Should he even-?

Of course he should.

“I gave it up. ‘m done bein’ Spider-man. A symbol.. or whateve’.”

You turn your body to face him, taking his hands to analyze him. You frown, eyes narrowing as he just stares down. When was the last time you saw Hobie so.. defeated?

Then, a sigh. “Hobes.. listen..”

You move your hands to cup his face, lifting him to face you directly. His tired eyes meet yours, and you give a smile.

“You can’t give it up. This is your favourite thing to do for the people.. Being their voice. But it’s okay to take breaks.” You start, gently stroking his cheek. “‘s not selfish.. you’re trying to be the best for them. To fight for them. But you can’t do that if you’re so tired, my love..”

Hobie chuckles quietly, leaning his head on your shoulder. “Always the wise one..” Is all he mutters.

You muse, rubbing his back gently. “Let me take care of you tonight. Please.”

“…mmkay...”

And you surely took care of him. You cooked for him. You cleaned up his wounds. You cuddled with him in bed. Anything to help Hobie feel better from such a long day. Even then.. from such a long and tiring career.

Hobie is so incredibly thankful for everything you do. The way you’re so tender with him. The way you just seem to know what to do to help him. You’re so incredible to him.

So he whispers a simple ‘thank you, swee’heart’ to thank you, finally letting his body rest and recuperate to continue his work in the coming days.

—

The fifth canon event Hobie Brown experienced was kissing the love of his life upside down.

It was cheesy, as Hobie and you could describe it. But he had just taken down some more corrupt government, seeing victory shine in his eyes. On top of that, he previously asked you to marry him, and you saying yes only added to his wonderful day.

Of course, your shared idea of marriage was different. In short, he put one of his rings on yours to be the symbol. The two of you would spend a day together, forge a silly little paper to say your married, sneak it in the courts, and call it a day. The perfect wedding for the perfect anarchist couple.

After his successful take down, he swung to the neighborhood you two lived in. It was quaint, you both preferred it that way. Somewhat safer as well.

He heard you earlier say you had to head to the corner shoppe, so that’s where he went. He lied on the rooftop with a perfect view of the entrance. Then, all he had to do was sit, and wait to see your pretty face walk out.

When you did, he turned himself upside down to hang on the side of the building, calling out to you. “Back from a day’s work of corrup’ gover’ment take down.”

You glance down the alleyway the voice came from, an amused smile cornering your lips. You glance around before making your way towards Hobie. Gently placing down the groceries, you glance up at him.

“Hope all that blood and ego doesn’t rush to your head, hanging upside down like that.” You tease.

“Can’t help how cool I truly am.” He replies, lowering himself so that he’s now at your level, still upside down. “You seem t’ think so too. Wha’s that on ‘ur finger, hm?”

“Geez, this gonna be a regular thing?” You fake a groan, hands finding placement on Hobie’s cheeks.

“‘s like y’know me so well..”

You stare at your fiancé for a while, just admiring him. The way he seemingly gave no care to anyone who judged him. He lived so freely, teaching you how to follow after him. Hobie Brown was so magnificent.. and here he was, at your every whim.

Before you knew it, your fingers began taking off the lower bit of his mask. Rolling it up, to reveal his beautiful lips, lip piercing shining in contrast to his beautiful skin.

“Wha’s this for?” He questions, hands holding tightly onto your now dropped ones.

You smile. “Such a.. silly reason, I’m afraid.” You mutter, leaning into his body. “I just wanted to kiss you..”

Then you lean in, kissing Hobie gently. His lips immediately match yours, taking in the warmth you provide. The kiss is so loving.. so incredibly beautiful. It is your first engaged after all.

Even when you pull away, a smirk plays at his lips. He brings his hands up to cup your face, pulling you in for another long kiss. He just can’t ever get enough of you.

Hobie never did believe in canon events. Of course he’s experienced so many with you now. But he can’t help but still keep his belief away from the idea. Because that could lead to your demise.

And Hobie will be damned if you die on him.

—

The sixth canon event Hobie Brown experienced was losing the best thing to ever happen to him.

It was a protest gone wrong. You both agreed to march the front lines, to protest for a better living wage for the lower class. Something the two of you have been fighting for for months on end.

Government never liked protests.

Of course, they sent their force to shut it down. To “stop any future damage”. But that was only a front. The pigs sent down actually stormed the crowd of protesters, putting their hands on anyone they could find.

Hobie quickly took on his Spider-punk role, defeating anyone he can before it happened. He saved a ton of lives, swiping them away from the police before webbing the bad guys to buildings. Things were going good for him. Until the explosion.

He just landed on a building to try and observe who still needed help. His eyes caught you shoving down a cop onto the ground, and his smile under the mask grew. You glanced up at him, giving your own smile, and a wave.

Hobie was about to swoop down to come grab you, but the cop got up, through his explosive to the ground. It rolled right next to your feet.

“Shit! [Name], watch-!”

But his words were too late. The explosion sent you flying into the side of a building, back thrown against it harshly. Almost everyone began scrambling after that, running from the scene. But not Spider-punk. He immediately made it to you, picking up your weak body.

His breathing picked up. “No.. no, ‘s not like this. Jus’, hang on.” He whispered over and over, swinging to a nearby rooftop.

You groan, already feeling the crimson liquid leak from your head and stomach. Everything was blurry, like a daze. Yet Hobie’s face was clear and recognizable. Even under his mask, he showed such obvious signs of worries, even regret.

Eventually, he drops his own body to the ground, yanking his mask off. His hands immediately hold your again.

“Damn.. just like.. that, hm?” You managed, body already showing the signs of shutting down. “Hurts, y’know?”

“Don’’ you dare give up on me.” Hobie muttered, ripping off the sleeve to his suit. “‘s all gonna be fine.”

You laugh weakly, head thrown back. “Dunno if I’ve got a choice, Hobes..”

With careful fingers, Hobie ties his sleeve around the wound. He didn’t want to hurt you more, but the bleeding had to stop before getting any worse. A small part of him knew it was hopeless. Futile, even. He was almost back in the beginning. When he was barely starting out in his duties, and he failed to save his good friend. Now he failed to save you. Here you were, dying in his arms.

Hobie took a deep breath. “Ya can’t.. swee’heart, c’mon..”

“Don’t be sad, Hobes..” You whisper, hand finding his cheek. “I wanna see you smile..”

Of course you would request that, only you. He gives such a weak laugh, one that brings the best smile he can manage. But it quickly turns back to sadness.

Then, a smile graces your face. “God.. I love that smile..” You whisper, coughing weakly. Blood seeps through the cloth on your stomach. You were losing it.

“‘m gonna miss ya, swee’heart.. s’much..” Hobie says, tears falling from his eyes.

“I know, Hobes.”

Hobie doesn’t remember the last time he let himself cry like this. Maybe when he was a kid? When his best friend died? Who knows. But now, now his tears wouldn’t stop flowing, nose sniffing over and over again.

Why can’t you just stay?

“I have’ta go..” You say sadly, almost as if reading his thoughts. “Don’t you dare.. stop bein’ a hero, ya hear? I’ll rise just to smack you..” Were your next words, almost as if reprimanding him.

Once again, Hobie laughed his quiet laugh. “Well now I neve’ can.. Jus’ f’you..” He says in a whisper.

You feel your breathing start to fall short, coughing and hacking. Hobie holds you tighter, whispers of “I love you” and “I’ll miss you” exchanged over and over.

“I love you.. Hobie Brown..” Were your last words. “My Spider-punk..”

And then.. you were gone. Just like that.

—

“Hobie? Hobie!”

Gwen had to call out to him a mere three times before he came back to. His eyes shut and opened as he remembers where he was. Right, Spider-society. Gwen and him were walking and chatting.

“Righ’, sorry Gwendy.”

Gwen waves it off. “Don’t even worry. Anyways, I heard about a couple new recruits.”

Hobie listened to his younger friend talk and talk, but his mind was elsewhere. Today was a particularly.. memorable day. He just couldn’t seem to get you out of his head. Normally Hobie wouldn’t complain.. but he misses you.

His thoughts circle him too much, and next thing he knows, he bumped into another Spider-totem.

“Crap, my bad. Didn’t see you there!”

…what?

Hobie knows that voice. Of course he does. He glances down at the stranger, finally seeing the face he missed so much. The face his nights yearned to see again. The face he missed screaming and supporting him at his concerts. The face of you.

“…uhm, are you okay? Oh my god I didn’t hit you that hard, did I?”

Gwen glanced back from her spot, noticing the scene occurring. Her eyes widen. Oh no..

She immediately walks to the two of you, chuckling awkwardly. “Hey! So sorry, he’s in a little daze today! C’mon Hobie!”

You glance up at the guy again, finally getting a good look at him. But he’s just staring. His eyes are seemingly.. longing. They’re lonely, that much you can tell. He has a demeanor about him.. one that reminds you of someone. Even his face looks familiar.. wait!

“What a coincidence!” You suddenly say. “My boyfriend’s name is Hobie! From my dimension at least.”

Hobie finally snapped from his trance, your words reaching his ears. “How.. coinciden’al..” He whispers.

“Well.. it was nice to meet you, Hobie.” You smile, offering out a hand for him to shake. “Hope t’ see ya around!”

He shakes your hand and.. oh does the contact feel so good. But he doesn’t linger. Hobie simply watches you walk off, that same cheerful demeanor reflecting in your every step.

Of course it felt like you got away again. And he had almost no doubt that the Hobie you love so dear will meet a demise. But he’ll stick with you. Stick with being your friend and being there when you need him.

Because Hobie would walk through this pain a thousand times if it meant you were in his life again.

[daydreamgoddess14]

Here she is! 🎉

Ella Cole - the only reject at Slough House to view her banishment as a fresh start and a chance to change her life for the better. Ella never again wants to draw attention to herself the way she did at the Park, but the past has a nasty habit of catching up with even the most cautious of people, and Ella is about to find out that keeping herself distanced from everyone is no guarantee she can keep them safe.

Taglist: @theskytraveler @moonmaiden1996 @acrackintheteacup @succulentthief

Masterlist

Warnings: *I want to be super clear on warnings so this might give away a handful of spoilers* Mentions & depictions of DV (not graphic or laboured), minor mentions of SV (not dubcon or rape, more like coercion and 'feeling obligated'), stalking, impact of all of this shit on a child, OFC is a single mother so there are depictions of motherhood. My inbox is open if you have any questions or want to talk 😘

The Escape Artist - Chapter 1

Six months. For Ella Cole, it had been six months of living hand to mouth, trying to pay for flats, bedsits or house shares with mould on the walls and mushrooms growing out of the carpet. Drug dealers on the stairs, unlicensed dogs barking night after night, bits of kids more than half her age with flick knives and vapes. She didn't bother them, and they didn't bother her. She knew this world and understood the ecosystem and flashpoints. She leaned against the front door and wiggled the key, the only way to get it to lock properly. It was still early, quiet in the stairwell bar one other person who kept his hood up and his hands deep in his pockets. 

“Lend us a tenner, El?” 

“I'm skint Dozzer, sorry.”

“Just till tomorrow?”

“No, Doz. Get down the clinic when they open, they can get you something to get you through the day.”

“Ain't allowed in there this week. ‘Ad a row with the security gaffer.” He sniffed.

“They'll kick you out for good if you keep that shit up. I've got to go, ask Mike.”

“Thanks anyway, bab.” She didn't see anyone else on the way out. The girls would still be sleeping, false lashes caked in mascara and lipstick stains bleeding into the soft lines around their mouths. She had to get out of this block, she'd only accepted it out of desperation. The black mould on the walls of the last place stank and it was wreaking havoc with her lungs. Putting her foot on a mushroom growing out of the carpet was the last straw, but after two months she'd also had enough of bumping into addicts and sex workers in the corridors, and she was sick of the girls pimp trying to enlist her. The fellas would love ya, you could make a killin’ babe he told her. Despite the early hour, the smell of weed in the building entrance was overwhelming. 

“Ugh.” A small voice next to her complained. She'd stayed quiet so far. She wasn't always keen on Dozzer, even less so when he was after money. 

“I know, baby, it's gross.” Ella wrapped her arm around her daughter's shoulders and guided her out into the street. “It's cold, zip your coat up.” If there was ever a reason to get out of their current accommodation situation, she was it. 

“Can we go to the cafe?”

“Not today, you're in breakfast club.” They navigated the street, avoiding puddles from the never-ending rain and bags of uncollected rubbish. Ella checked her watch, late again. She only had half an hour to get to the school and then on to Slough House. Lamb never said anything if she was late, just an arched eyebrow and withering stare. She still had no idea how much he knew - or didn't know - about her. She'd certainly not told him anything. She hadn't told any of them, six months of polite-ish conversation and pointed silence. Grabbing the girl's hand, Ella dashed out onto the pedestrian crossing outside the school. An approaching car slammed on its brakes and sounded the horn. Ella spun around to face the driver.

“It's a fucking crossing, you twat!” She yelled. The driver glared at her. The driver she recognised glared at her, and then quickly realised that they knew her. “Fucking hell, Cartwright, you trying to kill us?” She raised her middle finger and continued across the road and into the school gates. She waited at reception for the breakfast club staff and said her goodbyes. As she walked back towards the road, she saw his car parked up across from the school. He beeped the horn once and gestured for her to get in. 

“Sorry, I was miles away.” He said as she got into the passenger seat. 

“My own fault. I shouldn't have rushed us out.” She muttered. “We were running late.” He didn't say anything. He merged with the traffic and drove in silence to Slough House. “I didn't mean to call you a twat,” she said as he went to open his door once he'd parked up. 

“Yeah you did. You gave me the finger after you'd recognised me.”

“Yeah I did,” she replied sheepishly. “Can you umm… can you not tell anyone?”

“About giving me the finger?”

“About her.” 

“Sure.” He shrugged. “Does she… does she have a name? Am I allowed to know?”

“Thanks for the lift.” She ignored the question and slammed the car door, trudging up the death stairs of Slough House. 

“Oh, on time I see? Just about.” Lamb sneered. He perched on the edge of Ho's desk. 

“Just about is still on time,” she told him on her way past. 

“Fucking hell, a Cartwright on time as well. You pair are spoiling me today, am I dying?” He jeered as River shoved the heavy door open. 

“God I hope so.” River muttered, dragging himself up the stairs behind Ella. By the time he'd stopped off to see Louisa, Ella had made a cup of tea for herself only, and pulled on noise cancelling headphones. “Make my own then, shall I?” He dropped into his wobbly, missing-a-wheel office chair and got stuck into the files Catherine had left on his desk. An hour later, Ella looked up from her files to fingers clicking in her face. She frowned and pulled off the headphones. 

“Yes?”

“You haven't said anything for like, an hour.”

“I'm working?”

“Well, yeah but -”

“Did you want something?”

“Can I ask a question?” She didn't reply so he went ahead. “What's her name? How old is she?”

“That's two questions.” He waited, expectantly. “She's eight.” Ella sighed. 

“And?”

“You'll take the piss out of her name so I'm not telling you.”

“You really think I'm in a position to take the piss out of someone's name?” She pursed her lips to hide the small smile. 

“Her name is Clover.” She braced for laughter, or a derogatory sneer which didn't come. 

“It's nice.”

“Nice?”

“Yeah, cute. Very hippy, I don’t envy teenage Clover. Did you choose it?”

“I did. I thought… I hoped she'd bring me luck.”

“Is that why you're here? Bad luck?” She shook her head slightly and put the headphones back on. End of conversation. “Right. Good chat, at least twenty more words than usual so that's progress.” Her head had dipped again, back to the files. 

“Are you talking to yourself?” Shirley asked from the doorway. 

“No, I'm talking to… her,” he trailed off miserably when it was clear Ella wasn't listening at all. 

“Twat. Lamb wants you.”

“Two twats in one day. I am a lucky boy,” he sighed, leaving Ella alone. 

*

As much as Ella appreciated Clover's preference for the sex workers over the drug addicts in the small block of flats, it made it somewhat trickier to explain why she wasn't allowed to pop and show them her freshly painted nails - which they always loved to see - or why she couldn't hang out at their flat for any longer than it took to say hello in the corridor.

“Why do they always have visitors?” She grumbled, admiring the purple glitter polish Ella had let her have on for the weekend. 

“Because that's their job lovey, their visitors pay to come and… play games together.”

“Like monopoly?”

“Something like that.” Ella mumbled, head halfway in the oven which wouldn't light. She idly wondered how long the gas would take to kill her, then she remembered she hadn't paid the bill. “Shit.”

“What's up?”

“McDonald's for tea. Get your shoes on.” Ella sat back on the kitchen floor, stained with god knows what, and always sticky no matter what miracle cleaning products she brought. It had to get better than this. Surely it had to get better than this. She gritted her teeth, breathing in short huffs to try and keep the tears at bay. She'd felt a pang of terror after giving away Clover's name to Cartwright. For six months she'd been so careful, not daring to speak about her to anyone just in case, just in case, it somehow reached other ears. She had no way of knowing who Cartwright was in with. He appeared above board, but didn't they all? In sleep deprived delirium, she'd even researched how to change Clover's name via deed poll. She hadn't slept properly for nearly a week, hadn't paid the gas bill, but she had a fiver in her pocket and a handful of change - enough for a kids meal and maybe something for herself if she was lucky. She leaned into the door and wiggled the key, and led Clover out, passed the congregation of kids on the stairs and straight into the girl's pimp.

“Alright, El? Still got a job for you if you want it?”

“No thank you Pav, payday on Monday. I'm sure I'll get by til then.”

“A loan then? You don't even have to pay me back in cash,” Pawel Wójcik leered at Ella, a rolled cigarette caught between his teeth. 

“Nope.”

“They love a milf ya know? Could get you forty quid a go?” Forty quid sounded like a lottery win but Ella stood fast. She held Clover's hand tightly.

“Bye, Pav.” She kept it polite, always kept it polite. He wasn't a man she wanted to upset or demean, she didn't have to work for him, he still had the ability to make her life miserable. She hadn't realised how much of a sliding scale ‘miserable’ was. She'd been miserable before but at least they'd been warm and well fed. She hadn't had pimps offering her work or addicts asking for cash. Bills were paid, and Clover had her own room. It wasn't going to be for long, she soothed. She was fighting hand over fist to get back the security deposit from the flat before. The letting company were trying to lay the blame for the mould on her and were holding onto the deposit to pay for the flat to be cleaned. Another call on Monday to get them to pay up and once they did she'd be back on her feet again. Assuming she made it to Monday. They huddled in bed together, even with the lack of sleep Ella finally felt peace. Her baby in her arms, too old really to be sleeping in her mother’s bed but when there was only one bed the options were limited. Ella thought it funny how Clo proclaimed to be a big girl who wanted her own room back, her own bed back, but who suddenly became so small again when it came to bedtime. Her stomach rumbled, the small burger she’d managed to scrape together the change for wasn’t really enough. She hoped the girls down the hall would be up in the morning, they usually had plenty of bread for toast. Pawel wouldn’t allow them to go hungry, it was bad for business when the sounds of hunger got in the way of the blow jobs. 

“Fuck me, you look like shit.” Sofia told her the next morning through a cloud of cigarette smoke.

“Can we borrow some bread til tomorrow?”

“Sofia, look at my nails!”

“Oh Clo, they look beautiful! Why don’t you ladies come in for a cuppa.”

“You don’t have any visitors?”

“Nah, we’re free til lunchtime. Don't expect to see Lulu though, she's sleeping off a big night.” Clo raced through the flat to the plush pink velvet sofa and flicked on the TV. Sofia put a gentle hand on Ella’s arm. “Rough week?”

“Awful. I need to call that letting agent again tomorrow, if I had that money back we’d have a safety net. I wouldn’t be hunting for fucking change to take to McDonalds.”

“Can you even pay cash there anymore?” Sofia put a huge mug of tea down on the table. Ella cleared her throat, nodding over at the draining board which was laden with dildos. “Sorry, washing up. I’ll hide these.”

“Please don’t make me explain to an eight year old what a dildo is.” Ella grimaced. With the dildos away, a plate piled high with buttered toast made its way to the table. Ella ate until she felt sick.

“Better?”

“Thank you. I’m sorry we had to come to you.”

“Don’t be. I’d rather look after you two than a fifty year old on viagra,” she shuddered. “Heart attack waiting to happen - and my first aid at work is not up to date.”

“You haven’t heard anything?”

“If he’s out, everyone’s keeping it quiet. I’ll tell you if I hear otherwise.” As Ella left, Sofia pushed a twenty pound note into her hand. 

“I can't take -”

“You can, you will.”

“I'll pay you back.”

“You won't. I've been there babe, I promise it'll be worth it.”

*

“Cole, with me.” Lamb ordered as lunchtime drew near on Monday. Ella's face fell, she'd planned a Subway payday treat before her wages were swallowed by bills and school clubs. She glanced over at River who shrugged and then followed Lamb outside, down the stairs and round the corner into the Chinese restaurant. His usual order was on the table already. “Whatever the girl wants.” He told the staff.

“Oh, no I'm fine.”

“You ain't paying, I know you’re broke.” Ella blushed. “Saw you nicking biscuits from Ho's desk for breakfast last week.” 

“Chow mein please.” She mumbled, eyes tracing the red gingham tablecloth.

“Get her some other bits as well, will ya? Put it on my tab. Now, what I'm trying to work out is why you're so broke. It's not the old fizzy lifting powder, you're not as twitchy as Dander. Longridge is the resident gambler -”

“Just had a few big bills this month.”

“Why are you here?”

“Why are you asking me? You could just find out from the Park. Or Ho.”

“I'm asking you,” he said sternly. After a few sloppy bites of noodles, he softened. “Look, you don't seem as brain dead as the rest of the idiots upstairs. You've done everything I've asked for six months, and stuff I haven't asked for, you haven't complained, you've had your head down and got it done. Some people far more stupid than me might actually think you were enjoying it.”

“Believe it or not, I am.”

“But why?” She pushed the chow mein around her plate. 

“I was married. I am married, actually. He's a big deal in organised crime, moves things around, makes things disappear. Money, drugs, people, gold, you name it. The Park were watching the gang, he made me doctor some images and change some tracking details to throw them off. Taverner found out it was me.”

“Did they get him?”

“Only on a lesser charge. A few of the lads went down for him on the big stuff.”

“He’s a bully then. Must be if he got his underlings to go down for him?” Ella swallowed thickly. 

“Yeah. He doesn't like… disobedience.” 

“Where is he now?”

“Serving a year, but he might be out by now.”

“And Taverner sent you to me. Why didn't she have you charged?”

“My dad is a copper. Between them they made it go away.”

“Bet daddy dearest was happy about that.”

“I wouldn't know, I haven't seen him for years.”

“Disowned and yet he still saved you from the clink, eh?”

“Something like that.”

“What a pickle you're in. A fallen woman, pushed from a life of luxury into squalor. You should write a book. Make sure there's lots of pictures though, otherwise Cartwright won't be able to read it.” He laughed loudly at his own joke and followed it up with a belch. “C'mon eat up. Will he come after you?” 

“I've been staying low, I know a few people who are listening out for me,” Ella thought of Sofia and Lulu, teasing any snippets of information from clients they knew of who had links to him. Lamb nodded, seemingly happy enough with her response. 

“We'll see, shall we? And the money?”

“I ran away with nothing. I've had to get deposits and advance rent together, it's just been a bit hard that's all.”

“Let's call this your six month probationary review, eh? Congratulations, you've passed and it comes with a payrise effective right now.” He pulled a battered wallet from his pocket and handed her a wad of notes.

“No, that's not right -”

“You're on less than the others, even Dander and she's only about twelve. Someone fucked up on payroll. Accept it and say thank you, Lamb.”

“Thank you, Lamb.”

“You're welcome, now this ain't a fucking charity so that's your lot. Sort your shit out and don't bring it to my door.” Ella hesitated, feeling like she should acknowledge Clover somehow. 

“Just so you know, if everything did go to shit -”

“Oh fuck off, Standish can keep your fucking cat if the ex offs you.”

“I have a daughter.” Lamb stared. 

“What do you want? A medal?” His cutlery clattered onto the empty plate. “Alright. Say no more.”

“Thank you.” 

“Don't get all fucking weepy, you're better than that. Pull yourself together and get back to work.” Ella nodded and got up from the table, leaving Lamb alone with the leftovers and his thoughts. 

*

Feeling�� buoyed by her conversation with Lamb, Ella took advantage of Cartwright going to get a coffee and called the letting agent. She was halfway through giving them an earful when he returned. She knew he was eavesdropping, the page he was reading hadn't turned despite only having a handful of text on it. Unless Lamb had been right and he couldn't read. 

“Look, you owe me that money, that flat was not fit to be lived in. I have photos from the day I moved in, I have my hospital records which show I had three successive chest infections caused by black mould and I have a solicitor who specialises in getting deposits back from fraudulent landlords. I will put those pictures on every single platform I can and tell everyone that you're putting children at risk.” She kept her voice low but it dripped with anger. The monotonous voice on the end of the phone barely registered her threats. Ella balled her hand into a fist and bit down on it to keep from shouting. She didn't notice River get up from his desk until he was leaning over hers to pluck the phone from her ear. 

“Pay her the fucking money back or I'll be down your office in an hour with the police.” Ella stared, River listened to the response. “I don't give a shit how long it's supposed to take, it's taken long enough.” There was silence again while he waited, tapping his long fingers on her desk. She watched his hand, not daring to look up at him. “Thank you.” He handed her the phone. “Check your account,” he left the call connected while Ella opened her banking app. Her jaw dropped, confirming the payment had been received. He took the phone back again, “That's come through. See how easy it was? Don't let it happen again.” When he passed her the phone again, she flinched. “Sorry, I shouldn't have interfered.”

“It's fine. Thank you.”

“You should go and get the cash out, hang on to it.” Ella frowned. Her new cash is king world was still taking some adjustment. She'd been so used to waving a platinum credit card, her phone, her watch, at a pin machine. She was amazed at how quickly she'd become frugal. The watch and her latest model phone - traded in for a basic handset - had been sold to buy a bed.

“Yeah, you're probably right.” She sighed heavily, an odd feeling settling in her chest that she couldn't quite place. Relief. For the first time in months she felt relieved. 

 

She didn't abandon her vigilance entirely, but between telling Lamb and Cartwright - a duo she never envisaged being remotely trustworthy - the bare minimum, she relaxed enough to be able to sleep at night. She ensured that her private life remained completely private. No one but Lamb knew of her ex, and no one else other than Lamb and Cartwright knew about Clover, and she intended to keep it that way. But she found herself drawn to swapping book recommendations with Catherine, and even the constant arguments between Marcus and Shirley occasionally raised a smile. And then of course, there was Lamb. 

“Turnock’s fucking teacakes?”

“They were out of jaffa cakes.”

“And you see me eatin’ marshmallow do ya?”

“Don’t turn your nose up. What’s the suitable alternative?”

“I dunno Cole, use your brain. Knew I shouldn't have told you you had half an extra brain cell than the others.”

“Hobnobs. Shall I get you some hobnobs?”

“Fucking hobnobs,” Lamb grumbled, pouring a scotch from the fresh bottle he pulled out from the bag. “Least you got the scotch.”

“As if I'd leave you hanging there.” Ella put her hand on the box of teacakes, intent on taking them back downstairs to have one with a cup of tea.

“Leave the teacakes.” He eyed her though the bottom of the glass.

“Thought so.”

“Jaffa cakes tomorrow or you’re out of here. Got it?”

“Jaffa cakes tomorrow.” She agreed. He ripped open the box.

“Oi here y’are.” She caught the airborne red and silver wrapped teacake he threw at her and beamed.

“Cheers, Lamb.”

“Off you fuck, work to do.” Ella slipped through his office door and gave Catherine a wave on her way down the stairs. She managed to find two reasonably clean mugs and made tea, popping one on the desk next to hers and one on her own desk. Headphones on, she unwrapped the chocolate covered marshmallow and took a bite.

“Bit early isn’t it?” 

“Cartwright, there is no early when chocolate is involved.” She dragged off the headset and let it hang around her neck.

“Did you get me one?” 

“Nope.” 

“So that’s how it is?”

“I made you tea.” She popped the last bite into her mouth and nodded at his desk. Next to the mug of tea was a packet of hobnobs. He smiled, small, but a smile nonetheless.

“Thanks, Cole. Still sucking up to Lamb?”

“It’s not sucking up, he actually likes me. You’ll never know what that feels like.” She put her hand to her heart and pouted. “Sucks to be you.”

“See all you've done there is lure yourself into a false sense of security,” he opened the packet and snapped a biscuit in half, dunking it in the tea, “he doesn’t like anyone.” Catherine made her way through the maze of offices with a pile of files. 

“Morning you two. Thank you for the book, Ella, very enjoyable. These are tax returns from the early 90s relating to the Havilland job.”

“Love a dodgy tax return,” Ella gratefully received her half. “I'll bring you the next in the series if you like?”

“Lovely, I've passed the first one onto Louisa.”

“That's great, I told her she'd love it.” Ella smiled. River frowned. 

“Since when is anyone actually nice to each other around here?” He muttered holding the second half of his biscuit in the tea for a fraction too long. It broke off with a solemn plop into the liquid. “Bollocks.” Since Lamb had taken a chance, Ella thought to herself. Since she'd allowed herself to feel the tiniest modicum of joy that she'd managed to escape from hell and had survived. It was far better than the self-flagellation she'd gone for originally, there might be a mountain to climb but she had to celebrate the achievement of making it to base camp. That evening, come 5pm, there was a mass exodus from Slough House and after six shit months and one less shit, almost verging on normal month, Ella felt able to actually smile at her colleagues as they departed. She walked down the slippery stairs with River, into the evening rain. 

“See you Monday,” she said, opening her umbrella. He was looking past her at the bus stop. “Oi, dickhead, see you Monday?”

“Yeah, Monday.” His brow furrowed as he looked not quite at her, his attention still on the bus stop.

“Cartwright?”

“Do you need a lift to the school? It's pissing down.”

“No thanks, I'll live. You're going to the pub with Louisa anyway.”

“You should come next time.” He said, finally looking directly at her. 

“We'll see. I should go.” 

“Have a good one.”

“You too.” He watched her leave, walking in the opposite direction of the bus stop where the figure he'd been watching had vanished. 

Chapter 2

[clanwarrior-tumbly]

AirLock Anon:

FREEDOM!!

anyways

Ranch SHINANIGANS

Yancy grumbled walking into the mossy OverGrowth where His Rancher said they would be. He walked in and followed the crumbs of their trace they left. He fixed his shirt slightly hearing their voice and making sure nothing was tucked in. 

“AH!” He rushed in hearing his rancher scream suddenly and noticed another Humanoid but thankfully. NOT a Tarr. But a Hunter Slime, equally dangerous. He was gonna step in but noticed his rancher reach their arm up and start petting the slime in their human form. 

“H-hey stop! Your supposed to be. Ahh what the hell.” The slime crumbled into His Rancher’s chest and the Cat like tail flicked around as His Rancher pet and scratched all the happy spots. “Youse need a hand?” He chuckled as his Rancher smiled, that damn smile that drug him here. 

“Nope! Look at him! Total sweetie!” They cooed as he turned into a slime and accepted being taken to their home. “Youse taking him home? After he tried killin youse?” “Yeah!” They smiled not seeing any wrong and continued petting the Hunter Slime and leaning on Yancy. 

“So Rancher, uh why youse taking us all home?” He mumbled barely above a whisper. “Because I’m lonely. All my friends are on another planet. And I’m alone here. Haha like moving to a new school.” His Rancher smiled  as they walked on the teleporter and appeared on the ranch. 

“Hey buddy. Welcome home!” His Rancher smiled taking him to the mimic Moss Blanket. Yancy hummed reminiscing on the first time he was here. And felt awfully Heroic. 

“Rocky” The Tarr grinned holding His Rancher close. “MUDPIE!” He yelled snatching the human back. “Guys! Stop! Dark! Don’t,” “you KNOW this MUDPIE?!” He yelled almost dropping the Human. 

“He’s not a MudPie! He’s just as human? Slime? As you and me? I have no clue. But he has no intention on hurting anyone!” His Rancher yelped feeling his grip Tighten. “Your way to forgivin, but I’ll protect you from this thing.” He seethed glaring daggers into the finely dressed Tarr who took the human from his grasp.

“Ah. Ah, ah! Don’t wanna bruise them. Do we Rocky?” “DARK! Behave yourself or I swear on the rainy sky’s above I will-“ “what? I’d love to know. Darling” He clenched his jaw and couldn’t stop the Crystals from producing on his back. “Dark!” His Human warned and Dark gently put them down and they walked over to him. “I’m so sorry about him. He’s not like this. I promise.”

He only brightened a little seeing the genuine feelings on the Human’s face. “I’s sorry too. Shouldn’t have snapped at youse.” He looked down only feeling his cheeks being squished. “Your alright! Let’s get you to a comfy home for ya? You can decorate too!” They smiled and grabbed his hand firmly but gently and led him to the empty cave. 

But as he looked back he only saw the sly grin of the Tarr mouthing a “play nice” at him driving him mad. But he’ll try only for his Rancher.

-> ~I’m now using you/yours~<- 

He snapped back to reality seeing his Rancher. “You good Yanc? Do you need water? Food?” You grabbed his face and checked for scratched and handed him a Odd Onion and a carrot just in case.

“I’m all good, youse alright?” “Yanc it was only a slight push I’ll be okay.” You smiled gently holding his hand. “I don’ts like youse gettin hurt and just taken em in like nothin’.” “Awe hon I’ll be alright. Promise.” 

He sighed as you gently grabbed his face. “If you promise to play nice.” You smiled as he just nodded and you kissed his nose. “Good! Now time to go feed everyone!” You walked off smiling, leaving a flustered crystal slime.

aww this is adorable <33333

[maraudersbutmuggle]

Summer 2012, Part 6

Check part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4, and part 5.

It was the perfect day. At least Sirius had been distracted. He didn't take his shades off. Not even at night. Nobody pressured him to do so, or talk about the subject. The boys just talked about other things.

Remus noticed sometimes Sirius dozed off. Perhaps thinking about Regulus. Perhaps thinking about the consequences.

Guilt. Guilt. Guilt. That's all that Remus felt. He hadn't talked to his father in days. And Grant didn't have any parents. And Sirius had horrible ones. Nobody knew the reason he was kicked out. Sirius wouldn't talk about it.

And Remus would have to talk with Grant. Euphemia and Fleamont had begged Remus and Peter to stay for the rest of the summer. Promising them to take them to the train on September. Remus hoped to see Grant again. He didn't know what Grant did to Remus' feelings for Sirius. He only knew they were still there.

The Marauders were lying in the living room after dinner. Playing video games. They were tired and full. Maaike had forced Remus to eat a second plate, claiming he was too skinny for her taste.

"So..." Peter interrupted the silence "James thinks my mum is hot. Tell me you don't think that Sirius"

Sirius laughed "Oh I definitely think your mum is hot"

"I'm no longer participating in this conversation" Peter grunted

"You started it, mate" James protested.

Remus laughed.

"Remus?" Peter asked

Remus considered telling his friends about him being gay and all. They were cool with the trans thing. But there was a part of Remus that was scared of what they were going to say. And somehow, he wanted to keep Grant to himself.

"Don't worry, I'm not into mums, Wormy"

"Thank you"

"Don't worry Wormy" James sighed "I have eyes for someone else"

"Who? Moony's mum?" Sirius joked.

James threw him a pillow. Sirius laughed.

"Oh please no" Remus groaned.

"Lily... You assholes"

Remus, Sirius and Peter groaned at the same time.

"Not again" Peter covered his face with his pillow.

"Excuse me?" James protested "I haven't talked about Evans in a long time"

"Yeah because you were with Macdonald"

"And I actually fancied Mary" James explained "But lately, I can't stop thinking about Evans"

Remus understood the feeling. It had happened with the boy lying next to him. The gorgeous asshole with his stupid shades. He looked like a rockstar.

"That's great..." Peter commented "Oh yes! I killed you Moony"

Remus had been distracted staring at Sirius that he stopped defending himself in Mortal Kombat.

"Oh shit..." Remus said sarcastically "Please plan a good funeral for me"

"Never" Peter joked

"Hello?" James said "I'm currently whining about my crush"

"What can we do about it Prongs?" Sirius asked

"I think she hates me" James pouted "She hasn't spoken to me since you know..." they knew he was talking about the Snape incident. "Maybe she is right, Maybe I am a bad person"

"Woow, handsome" Sirius said "I'm gonna stop you right there. You're not bad"

James didn't look convinced.

"You're not, James" Remus added. Now very serious "You were only defending me. You all were. It was all my fault and..."

"It was all Snivellus!" Peter interrupted,

"I couldn't let that asshole say those things about you, Moony" James said "You guys are my family, okay? I could kill anyone that hurts you. As cliche and cheesy as it sounds" he rubbed his hair.

Sirius smiled for the first time in the night.

"Prongsie. You are an incredible motherfucker" he said

"No need to insult me..."

"If Evans doesn't see how awful Snape is and how amazing you are, that's her fucking problem"

Remus smiled at that. Because it was true. Even if he liked Lily.

"Yeah fuck that bitch" Peter added

James smiled, then he pouted "But fuck, she is so pretty"

The boys groaned again.

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

"Hey, Grant"

"Hello sweetheart. I was wondering if you choked smoking a fag or somethin'. Then I felt bad to sell those to ya. They would know it was me fault and send me to jail for killin' ya"

Remus laughed. He was bloody gonna miss Grant.

"Sorry..." he said "I had a problem with a friend. He was kicked out of his house. And I needed to check if he was okay..."

"Blimey" Grant sighed

"What?"

"You've a crush on him, don' cha sweetheart?"

Remus blushed and he thanked to be talking over the phone. Was he too obvious? Was he like an open book? Or Grant was too clever to see things?

"No..." Remus lied. But he sounded terrible.

Grant laughed on the other line.

"Of course you do"

"I have a crush on you too". Remus wanted to say. But he didn't dare.

"I guess. But it doesn't matter. He doesn't feel the same"

Of this, Remus was convinced.

"Is he from the posh school you attend?"

Remus had told Grant briefly about Hogwarts. Grant had rolled in the ground with laughter as he told him about the horses.

"Yeah. We are best friends"

Grant whistled. "Tell me more about him, sweetheart"

"Why?"

Remus was embarrassed. Haven't they been snogging practically half of the summer? Was Grant jealous of Sirius? He didn't sound like it.

"I wan' to help you with him"

Remus snorted. Sirius was just inside. Watching Effie and Maaike prepare scones. Peter had told them his recipe. And he was making his own (Peter's scones were amazing).

Remus told Grant about Sirius. It felt so nice to finally talk to someone about Sirius. How he made him feel. Remus knew Grant wouldn't judge him. So he let himself be carried away.

When Remus was done, Grant let out a long whistle.

"He sounds like a freaking prince charming, sweetheart"

Remus couldn't agree more.

"The only problem is that he is very into girls"

"Is there a possibility he swings both ways?"

"Sorry?"

Grant laughed "That he's into both, sweetheart. Boys and girls"

Remus didn't know that was a possibility for Sirius. He never thought about it.

"I don't know"

"Maybe you should try just to bloody ask, or kiss 'im. Jus' like I did with ya"

Remus laughed embarrassed.

"I'm not like you"

"Righ' you're bloody nicer"

Remus blushed.

"Soo..." Grant continued after a brief silence "Are you stayin' there all summer? Could I see your sweet ass again?"

"I'm staying all summer"

"Oh..." Grant snorted, and Remus imagined him rubbing his neck. Something Remus learned he did when he was nervous, which didn't happen often "That's alrigh' sweetheart, don' worry"

"Maybe I'll see you on Christmas' '

Unlikely possibility, since The Potters had already asked them over. But he wanted to assure Grant, Remus wanted to see him again.

"Sure, darling" Grant said. Remus pictured him grinning "Don' worry about me"

"I'll call you, so pick up" Remus warned. He tried to swallow his tears. He was already missing Grant.

"Of course" Grant said "Take care of your prince charming"

Remus smiled "I'll miss you a lot"

Grant was silent for a while.

"See you around, sweetheart"

When he hung up, Remus cried a little. But he composed himself before going back inside.

[crashdevlin]

Centerfold 1- Another New School

Centerfold Masterlist

Author’s Note: Written for Meghan who requested some fluffy A/B/O smut and then I came up with an idea and ran with it. Smut will start after the plot is established. Also, this is gonna go toward my @spnabobingo​ squares. This chapter fills my Rose/Gardenia/Amber square and is rated G for General Audiences.

Summary: Dean is a Junior at yet another brand new high school. He meets a sweet young woman in his homeroom and starts a relationship with her.

Pairing: Dean x Y/n

Word count: 1211

Story Warnings: none really, mentions of A/B/O dynamics, overprotective parents

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dean didn’t like that there were so many miles between the middle school and the high school John registered his sons at in Olympia, Washington. John had the Impala, so Dean had to walk with Sam two miles to his school and then walk four miles to his own. “Gonna have to hit a bar and hustle some cab money. Can’t be doin’ this walk twice a day, Sammy. It’s already killin’ me,” Dean complained.

“At least it’s not winter,” Sam said, sarcastically. “Anyway, Dad will be back soon, ya know?”

“Yeah, I know. It’s a witch hunt, practically a milk run for Dad, but still. I wish he’d left the car or something.”

“It’ll be okay, Dean.”

Dean rolled his eyes as he patted his brother’s shoulder and walked away, disappearing into Jefferson Middle School. He hated this walk and it was the first time he’d even done it. He made it to Olympia High just as the bell rang. Definitely needed some money for cabs. Maybe he could call Bobby, get some cash Western Unioned to him. He definitely wasn’t going to get any more money out of his dad. John always gave him just enough for him and Sam to eat for a couple weeks.

He pulled a paper schedule out of his pocket and sighed. “Homeroom. Mr. Philips. Room C-215. That’s D-100 and that’s D-200, so C Hall will be…” he said to himself, walking toward his classroom. He found C-215 and stepped inside. “Mr. Philips? Dean Winchester. I’m new.” He handed the schedule over to the tall man behind the desk and smiled tightly.

“Right. Take a seat behind Miss Y/l/n in the pink,” Philips said, dismissively, handing the schedule back. Dean nodded and scanned the room for ‘the pink’.

His eyebrows jumped in surprise when his eyes fell on the girl in the second row with the blush pink fuzzy sweater on. She was gorgeous, looked sweet and innocent, smiled at him as he walked down the aisle to slide into the desk behind her. He leaned forward close to her. Whatever perfume she had on smelled amazing. Roses, gardenia maybe...amber? “Miss Y/l/n, huh?” he whispered.

She looked away bashfully and bit her thumbnail. “Shush. Mr. Philips is really mean. Don’t get sent to detention on your first day.”

“You keep talking, we’ll both be there...and that’d be worth it.” She stifled a giggle and looked at her desktop. “Come on, sweetheart. What’s yer name? ‘Less you want me to keep callin’ you, Miss Y/l/n.”

She bit her bottom lip and looked back over her shoulder. “Y/n,” she said.

“Quiet!” Mr. Philips called out from the front of the classroom. “We observe quiet in my classroom, Mr. Winchester.”

“Yeah, sorry. I wasn’t here for the syllabus,” he joked. Y/n giggled and covered her mouth with her hand. Dean thought she was just...adorable. It wasn’t often that he fell into a crush right off the bat, barely knowing her name, but Y/n was just...sweet as sugar...and Dean loved his candy.

“So, I’m new, you wanna show me around?” Dean asked as he followed her down the aisle after homeroom let out. It was every bit of the line it felt like leaving his mouth and part of him doubted she’d fall for it. She seemed like too good a girl to fall for his lines. “I’m sure a smart girl like you knows her way around school...around the neighborhood?”

She turned to him in the hallway just outside the door and smiled brightly. “Dean, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Where’re you from?” she asked.

“Kansas,” he responded, warily. He didn’t understand why she was asking.

“Parents’ names?”

“It’s just my dad,” Dean answered, his jaw tightening.

“I’m sorry,” she said, softly. “But what’s your dad’s name?”

“John.”

“What’s he do for a living?”

“Sells vacuums. Why are you asking all this?” he asked, eyebrows tucked together.

“My parents don’t like me talking to strangers and now you’re not a stranger,” she said with a smile. “If you can find your way to the parking lot after school, I’ll show you around town a bit...and I’ll help you study.”

He got a whiff of her floral scent as she twirled and practically danced away from him and down the hallway. She was something special.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“So, sixteen or seventeen, Dean?” Y/n asked, as she walked across the parking lot with her backpack slung over her shoulder.

“Sixteen...for another three months. You?”

“Seventeen, two months ago,” she responded.

“Are your parents really gonna ask about all that junk you been asking me?”

“Some of it, yeah, but the most important question is ‘what’s your presentation?’” she asked, turning to him and walking backward.

Dean licked his lips and shrugged. “Don’t have one yet. Dad’s alpha, so was our grandpa. Pretty much destined. What about you?”

“Haven’t presented either, but there hasn’t been a female in my family that wasn’t omega in a hundred and fifty years. How’s that for ‘destined’?”

“If I were alpha, your parents wouldn’t let me around you, huh?”

She chuckled. “That’s a hard and fast rule. Even though I’m not an omega yet, I’m not allowed near alphas.”

“Well, thankfully, I’m not alpha yet.”

She smiled and turned back around. “Yeah. Thankfully.” She reached a small red convertible Mercedes and pulled out a set of keys. Dean’s eyes went wide as she popped the trunk and set her backpack in the trunk. “What?” she asked when she noticed the look of shock on his face.

“You...this is your car?”

“Yep! It’s a hand-me-down. It was my mom’s first. Dad bought it for her when she got pregnant with my brothers. A station wagon or a van would’ve been a better choice, of course, but she made it work.”

Dean walked around it. “1980 Mercedes-Benz 280SL. Wow...Euro import with the flush headlights and bumpers. It’s beautiful. You can drive a stick shift?”

“Of course.” She shut the trunk and walked over to the driver’s door. “Get in, Dean. Unless you have a problem with riding shotgun.”

“In a car like this with a girl like you? No problem on my end, sweetheart.” He smiled as he pulled open the door and settled into her passenger seat.

She smiled as she turned the key in the ignition. “Only man I’ve ever had in this car was my dad...he wouldn’t let me drive my own car because the idea of a woman behind the wheel was just too much for him.”

“Sounds like a jerk. No offense.”

She chuckled. “Well, he’s just an alpha, ya know. That’s how they are.”

“Well, I’m not an alpha yet, Y/n, and I think you belong behind the wheel.”

She bit her bottom lip and maneuvered the transmission into first, easing off the clutch and rolling out of the parking space. As he watched her drive, he suddenly wished his father would never come back so Dean would never have to leave. He shook his head when he realized he’d essentially just wished for his father’s death over a pretty girl. He’d never had a girl grab his heart and soul so quickly.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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[myblueeyedbuggers]

My Boys

Chapter 10

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14

Pairings: Reader x Steve Rogers (best friend) Reader x Bucky Barnes

Word Count:1843

Warnings: Slow Start, Language.

Summary: After being abandoned by her parents in Brooklyn in 1929, y/n makes a living for herself by working for the Црни лабуд gang until she meets two boys in a back alley and her life slowing begins to change.

Annnddd I’m back! so I know it’s been a while since the last update and I just wanna thank you all for having patience with me while I finished up with college, just a warning this chapter may feel a little awkward to read due to me just getting back into my writing mind so apologises in advance for this one. Anyways I’ll quit blabbering, Enjoy everyone! :)

This was my day of reckoning, my punishment for all the bad deeds I’d done over the past couple of years…I was finally being sent to school. Okay maybe that was a tad dramatic, but can you blame me? I mean who wants to be trapped in a building against their will for 7 hours straight learning about dead guys?! No sane person would willingly agree to that crap!

I’ve tried just about everything to avoid my approaching doom, hell I even went as far as hiding in the basement surrounded by cobwebs to try and get out of this, but as per usual neither Steve or Bucky took mercy on me, hence why in currently trapped between the two. “You are aware I’m perfectly capable of walkin’ by myself aren’t ya? The looping of the arms is not needed boys” I swear down these two are being more annoying than usual, and I didn’t think that was humanly possible cause these two are basically the living embodiment of annoyance. Steve turned and raised his eyebrows at me, shaking his head as he let out a small laugh, “Yeah there’s absolutely no way I’m fallin’ for that again, last time that happened it look me and Buck an hour to get you outta that tree”. Ah crap there goes that plan.

I’m pretty sure the noise I made wasn’t even human, it was a mix between a seal and a possessed monkey “I’m not gonna get outta this am I?” “Nope” and que another frustrated groan. “Is this payback for the time I placed that bucket of flour above your bedroom door and watched the both of you turn into ghosts? If it is then I want you to know I regret nothin’” both of them stopped and glared at me, for some reason they didn’t find that as funny as I did, and I have no idea why. Okay whatever you do y/n don’t laugh, even if Steve’s face looks like a slapped arse don’t laugh! A snicker slipped past my lips and a few seconds later I was full on laughin’.  Goddamn it.

Both of em just let out a bunch of sighs and started draggin’ my butt along the street, wait there’s somethin’ I haven’t tried yet…in hindsight this is completely stupid but screw it. “OH MY GOD LOOK A SPACESHIP!” I’m pretty sure poor Bucky jumped outta his skin, Steve ended up trippin’ up and falling down, I’ll admit that I felt bad about but hey may plan worked! So why am I still standin’ there?… maybe we try this thing called running y/n! I quickly pulled my arm away from Bucky and used my new-found freedom to run in the opposite direction of them, I could hear the shouts of protest from the both of them, so I decided to kindly ignore them and absolutely leg it.  “GODAMMN IT Y/N! THIS IS THE FIFTH TIME THIS MORNIN’!” when were the boys gonna catch on that I didn’t wanna go? Do I need to prepare a firework show and blast it in their faces or somethin’…probably.  

I know I probably shouldn’t be smiling, but the feeling of the wind flowing through my hair as my feet hit the ground made me feel free, after so many years I could finally begin acting my age and enjoy my childhood. I finally felt content with my life, which is probably the opposite of what I should be feeling at this moment in time, considering I was currently making my grand escape. And to completely honest I’ve got no bloody clue as to where I am. I glanced behind me to see where the hell those idiots were, to my surprise Steve was directly behind me, Buck was somewhere in the back holdin’ his knee and I’m guessing the daft sod decked it. Why am I not surprised? Okay maybe I should of kept my mouth shut cause literally a second later my foot tripped over a rock and, you guessed correctly, I landed on my ass for the thousandth time!

“Sh*t! Cr*p! B*lls! That f**king hurt!” and that ladies and gentlemen is my fine command of the queens English, a groan of pain made me loose my train of thought as I turned my head to Steve, to put it simply he was laid flat on his back with his eye closed. Well there’s the rush of guilt I’ve been waiting for, “Sh*t Steve I’m sorry, you okay down there tough guy?” I quickly offered him my hand to help him up, I mean it’s the least I could do. Steve’s hand grabbed mine, a not so quiet grunt of pain made me feel even worse, quick question why am I such an assh*le at times? “Yeah, I’m fine y/n, don’t worry about it you know for a fact I’ve had worse” a quiet sigh left my lips as I brought him in for a hug, which was a tiny bit awkward due to the height difference. Once we pulled away from each other, I couldn’t supress the need to check him for anymore injuries, much to Steve’s embarrassment and Bucky’s amusement, “Jesus I’m gonna have to start wrapping ya up in blankets and pillows, Steve how the hell did you manage to get a bruise on your ear?!”

The sudden gasp behind me pretty much answered the question for me, it’s safe to say barney boy is in trouble…for the first in my life Bucky looks pretty f**king terrified of me, perfect. Slowly I started inching towards him, the glare I was sending him would probably make a demon cry for his mum…so yeah imma go kill the boy. I didn’t even have to say anything, he just started runnin’, “IT’S NOT MY FAULT HE STOLE MY FR**KING PUDDIN’ AND THE PUNK KNOWS I LOVE MY PUDDIN!’” YEP DEFINITELY KILLIN’ HIM “HE IS A SMALL AND GENTLE BOY HOW IN THE NAME OF HELL CAN YOU EVEN THINK OF LAYIN’ A HAND ON ‘IM?!” god this sounds like a bleeding soap opera.

 At this point I wouldn’t be surprised of someone called the cops on us, all everyone woulda seen was a big lad runnin’ for his life as a small lass tried to murder him while a smaller lad ran after the pair yellin’ for em to quit it.  Now that I think about, that’s actually hilarious. Wait, where was I? ah yes the murdering of one James Barnes…okay that is not a normal sentence I am aware. “HE.STOLE.MY.PUDDIN’! THAT A CRIME WORTHY OF DEATH!” oh for f**ksake “HOW THE HELL DO YA KNOW IT WAS HIM?! DID YOU NOT THINK IT COULDA BE BECCA?!” I think he made a sudden realisation, cause the dumbass stopped running and BOOM I was on the freakin’ floor. Again. We both groaned, mine was mostly in annoyance more than anything, but seriously the bloody floor is quickly becoming me best mate! “…. It just dawned on me that that could be a possibility…” if my neck twisted any quicker I’m 100% sure that I’d end up doin’ that weird owl thing “Oh now you realise?! Ya gonna say sorry to Steve or not?” a few seconds of silence gave me my answer. “Don’t give me that look y/n! I ain’t doing s**t till I’ve got some evidence so he’s still under my list of suspects!” oh my Jesus Christ this is gonna be the day I get arrested for murder isn’t it?

“Barnaby…you have exactly five seconds to run for your life so I highly recommend you get your affairs in order and kiss ya ass goodbye” oh hey look at that I didn’t yell at him! Well done me I’m so proud! “could you two quit trying to kill each other for 5 minutes?! We’re already late enough as is it and I ain’t explainin’ to the teacher why Buck’s outta it on the floor!” my f**kin god Steve just yelled! At me! why do I never have a camera when this s**t happens?  “Jeez, alright I’ll murder him later, calm your damn t*ts Rogers” and cue the sound of barely contained frustration in 3,2,1….

“I’m beginning to get the feelin’ that you don’t like me y/n” oh really? I wonder what gave that away “wow you catch on quickly don’t ya Barnaby?” by the looks of things I’m really doing wonders for his ego, buck’s head looks like it’s gotten smaller so the risk of him turning into a hot air balloon’s gone down. The feeling of a pair of eyes glaring at the back of my head once again reminded me that the blonde boy was quickly getting tired of our crap, my worst fears were confirmed once I met Steve’s surprisingly intimidating glare…how he manages to be both adorable and beyond f**king terrifying is a mystery to me. “Okay I’m comin’ just stop staring at me like I just murdered your kitten!” and the little s**t has the nerve to smirk and look pleased with himself, ugh he’s been hanging ‘round me and Bucky too long that’s for sure.

“Ya know Buck and you are gonna be the death of me” right do I be offended or pleased with that statement? “actually, if anything it’s gonna be the pair of you that send me to an early grave cause god knows the both of ya don’t know how to stay outta trouble” two muffled sounds of protest came from my left and from behind me, “what’s that supposed to mean?!” once again the point has been missed “do you really wanna know the answer to that? I’ve got my report and presentation ready on how you two are a pair of numpties”.

Maybe that was a tad harsh…okay wait never mind it seems I’ve learned how to fly again with the assistance of one James Buchannan Barnes. “this is coming from the girl who can’t walk five feet without fallin’ over somethin’?” as much as I hate to admit it the walking embodiment of frustration and annoyance has a point “what you call fallin’ I call floor hugs, now how about you pUT ME DOWN FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!” wait when did Steve walk off? See this is what happens when an overgrown ape demands attention. I don’t even have to look at Buck to know he’s givin’ me that look that says, “what the hell?” and “I’m not surprised by this” at the same time, “Nah I don’t think that’s gonna happen doll” the temptation to kick ‘im where the sun doesn’t shine is too much to bare for me at this point. “And you wonder why I love Steve more that you” Buck’s face kinda looked like someone just shoved a whole lemon in his mouth, I’m almost certain that he woulda dropped me on my ass if it wasn’t for the fact that Steve came over and dragged us both through the gates of hell.

This is gonna be so much fun!……said no-one ever.  

Okay…maybe it didn’t suck as much a thought it did, hopefully my skills as a writer will come back for the next couple of chapters XD Thanks for reading ! :)

Rose xxx

[spookysweet-heart]

Reshape The Past

Request: No

Fandom: Battle Egos

Parings: Battle Egos x Fem!Reader

Warnings: Mention of Death

A/N: This is Part Two! Part One can be found here! This is gonna be a Julie and The Phantoms AU, with the Holloway Sisters and Battle Boys! I hope you like it! The songs featured throughout the series are by their respective bands and artists, I’ll link each song that’s featured so you all can listen along. Each song I chose has significance to the story, so I hope you pay attention to them! The collage was made by me! Edited by @semiproeagle23​

The girls looked at each other before they turned their attention to the drum set. 

“Who’s going to play the drums….” Raven spoke softly, walking towards them placing a gentle hand on one of the drums.

Marie glanced at the drums before looking back down at her notebook, feeling unsure.

Anne bit her lip nervously while clenching and unclenching her fists. “I-” Taking a deep breath in and out, she let her nerves slip away. “I’ll do it. This song doesn’t need a keyboardist anyway. I know her parts.”

Marie took Anne’s hand in hers, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Are you sure?”

“Positive!” Anne smiled at her sisters as Raven walked towards her with Natalie’s drumsticks. 

“Our little sunshine, still brightening up the place even if we’re dead.” She playfully ruffled Anne’s hair, making her giggle.

“It’s settled, then! Let’s go get (Y/n)!” Marie was the first one to disappear with the other two following along.

Sitting at the kitchen table, you took a sip of your coffee and scrolled through your phone, seeing the pictures your mom posted of her and your younger siblings in her new house. Looking up from your phone, you saw the three women staring at you sitting at the table.

“Jesus fucking Christ! How long have you three been here?!”

“Just got here, actually. Had breakfast yet?” Anne sweetly smiled and looked around, noticing a bowl by the sink.

“Just some cereal. Why? Did you want something to eat?”

“We can’t eat.”

“Or sleep.”

“Or pick up anything that isn’t ours.”

“What?” You looked at them a little confused. 

Raven excitedly looked at you, grinning. “So last night we figured out we can pick up and play our instruments!”

“We wanna know if it’s okay if we show you a song we wrote?” Marie slid her notebook to you.

Taking the notebook, you looked through the pink and black colored pages. Reading the lyrics for a few seconds, you looked back at them, nodding. “Sure, why not. I should still have time before I have to get to class.” Sliding the book back, you stood up, putting the mug in the sink, and followed them out to the studio.

Raven pulled out a chair for you to sit on in front of them.

“Are you ready?” Anne asked you after she got comfortable behind the drums.

“Ready when you guys are. What’s the song called again?”

Raven smiled, adjusting her mic. “Candy Coated Lies!”

Marie grinned, adjusting the strap of the guitar. Counting down silently from three with her fingers, the group began to play.

Marie started feeling the excitement run through her when she started to sing. “Just about done livin' this life. Look at my face when you're talking to me, talking to me. Brought a blunt knife to a gunfight. Words and phrases lock me in cages. I'm taking my time if it's alright. Hold the world up but it's weighing on me, weighing on me. Watch it all fall from a great height. All these rats that are running races.”

Raven took over the pre-chorus. “Stay away, you push me to the edge. I need a tidal wave to drown out all the pain in me” She looked over at Marie when she joined her for the chorus.

“Just about to break, I can't stand the taste of Candy-coated lies, these candy-coated lies. Every day, the same, driving me insane. Candy-coated lies, these candy-coated lies.”

Anne focused as much as she could on playing the drums. It felt a little off at first, but she started to feel free with each passing beat. Raven and Marie glanced back at her when she took over the vocals. “You're killin' my vibe for the last time. Vultures up high started preying on me, preying on me. Take a step back to the broadside, 'cause I'm not as brave as I'm letting on to be. Losing my breath but I'm alive. Should have spent more time fighting for me, fighting for me. Making my way to the bright side. Is there paradise?”

The other two join in, the three of them singing the chorus. “Just about to break, I can't stand the taste of Candy-coated lies, these candy-coated lies. Every day, the same, driving me insane. Candy-coated lies, these candy-coated lies.”

Raven took the lead for a moment to let Marie catch her breath a little longer. “Talons digging deep down inside of me. Holding this absentee, guilty, and desperately.”

Marie closed her eyes for a second and smiled when she opened them again, seeing you look at them in awe. Giving this last round her all, you saw her grow more and more passionate about asking you to join their band. “Just about to break, I can't stand the taste of Candy-coated lies, these candy-coated lies. Every day, the same, driving me insane. Candy-coated lies, these candy-coated lies. Just about to break, I can't stand the taste of Candy-coated lies, these candy-coated lies. Every day, the same, driving me insane. Candy-coated lies, these candy-coated lies. Stay away, you push me to the edge. Candy-coated lies, these candy-coated lies. I need a tidal wave, to drown out all the pain in these, Candy-coated lies, these candy-coated lies.”

Anne dropped the drumsticks, shaking her fingers to loosen them up. Raven took off the strap of her bass and carefully put it back in its place. Marie breathed a bit heavily, but her smile never faded. “So? What’d ya think?”

Smiling, you stood up, clapping for them. “That was amazing! But is Anne okay?”

“I’m fine! Not used to playing drums is all!” She lightly waved her hand, dismissing your concern. “All good!”

Raven walked towards you with a small smile on her face. “This isn’t everything, to be honest.”

Marie gestured to the logo on the drum set. “We want you to be a part of our band!”

“(Y/n)?? Hey! Are you here?!” A voice from the other side of the door caught you four off guard. 

“Oh shit! No, I forgot my friend was coming over today to help unpack…” You looked around frantically before Raven got your attention.

“Hey, we’re ghosts, remember? They probably won’t be able to see us.”

“R-right…” Turning your attention to the door, you made your way to it, opening it.  “Erica!! Hey!”

“Hey, yourself! I was looking for you everywhere and when I made my way back here, I heard music coming from inside.” 

The girls looked at each other with wide eyes and smiles when they realized what she said. 

Erica looked around, seeing the stereo was on. “So you were just listening to music, then?”

“Yup!” 

“Seriously, you of all people need to sign up for the talent show this weekend! Your name alone could get you a deal.”

Playfully rolling your eyes, you wrapped an arm around her shoulders. “That’s exactly what I don’t want. If I want a deal with a label, I want it for my talent, not the name.”

“You never want an easy way in.”

“Nope! It takes the fun out of everything. You know I wanna work on this.”

“I’m just saying, the opportunity is there. You should take it.”

“Don’t think so. C’mon, I’ll buy you breakfast on the way to school.” Quickly waving to the girls, you closed the door behind you, leaving them alone.

Anne took a seat on the couch with Marie getting her acoustic guitar. “This is gonna be great! That girl heard us!”

“Yeah, but she can’t see us.” Raven crossed her arms over her chest, looking down at them.

“Yeah...but it’s a start. We just need (Y/n) to agree to join the band and we sign up with her for that talent show. She can maybe play it off like she recorded all the instruments while we actually play.”

Raven only shook her head. “That sounds ridiculous...but I guess anything is possible now.”

Anne looked up at Raven a little concerned. “You okay?”

“Yeah...kinda. I’m just feeling overwhelmed...I think I’m gonna go for a walk or something..”

“Do you want one of us to go with you?” Marie asked while putting down the guitar.

“No, it’s fine. I’ll just be a while. I’ll be back later.” Raven disappeared, leaving a red mist behind.

Walking with her hands loosely behind her back, Raven looked around the huge park, seeing children playing, running around, and giggling while their parents watched over them. 

Everything seemed normal for a moment, she felt like things were okay...till someone phased right through her and she felt like reality punched her in the face again. Raven was a little dizzy, not used to people just going right through her. 

Before she knew what was happening, she was on the ground with slight pain on her forehead. “Hey watch where the fuck-” Raven blinked, trying to understand what happened.

The other woman who bumped into her frantically stood up, lending Raven a hand. “I am so so sorry! I thought I’d phase right through you. I thought you were alive!”

Raven took her hand, letting the other ghost help her up. “You crashed into me...wait you thought I was alive? Does that mean you’re...dead, too?” 

The woman gave her a nod, still holding her hand. “Yeah. been dead for a while. I’m Lexi, by the way.” Looking down, still seeing their hands touching, Lexi quickly took hers back, feeling a little embarrassed. “I- I’m sorry again, uh but can I ask you something?”

“I’m Raven, and uh sure I guess…” 

“Are you new to the whole dead thing?” Lexi adjusted her bag on her shoulder.

“What gave it away?” Raven playfully rolled her eyes at the question, giving Lexi a smile to reassure her she wasn’t being mean.

“Everything, honestly.” Lexi smiled back. “You look like something’s troubling you. Wanna talk about it?”

“Are you sure you have time to listen to me?”

“Pretty sure I have some time before I meet up with a friend.” Lexi led the way to the other side of the park where no one was occupying any of the benches.

After a while of listening to Raven, Lexi nodded and looked over at her. “So now you guys don’t know where your other sister is, and this girl. (Y/n)?”

“Yeah.” 

“She can see you guys. And she’s living in your old house, and you’re sure she’s alive?”

“Also her old house, and yes, we’re sure.” Raven got quiet for a second.

“Have you tried finding what your unfinished business is?”

“My what?”

“Your unfinished business, like what you wanted to do before you died but never got the chance to.”

Raven thought for a second but shook her head. “I can’t think of anything at the moment. It’s all too much. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry. You’re new, so it’s not gonna come right away. Some of us never really find it.”

“What about you? How’d you die?” Raven looked at Lexi before immediately covering her mouth with her hand. “I- I mean you don’t have to tell me, it’s fine. I’m sorry if that’s too personal for you.”

Lexi giggled and shook her head. “No, it’s fine. You told me your story. It’s only fair that I share mine. I died with my best friend. Her name’s Kimberly and we were inseparable in life, so it made sense even after death we’d still be with each other. We’d joke about that kinda thing, so when it happened we freaked out. We were walking home from getting dinner one night since the place was just a block away from our apartment. We didn’t see it coming at all. Someone was being robbed and we got caught in the crossfire. We got shot cause the person who was running away wasn’t looking where they were shooting.”

Raven took Lexi’s hand in hers, squeezing it. “I’m so sorry, oh my god, that’s horrible.”

Lexi smiled softly. “It’s alright. What’s done is done, right?”

“Lexi!!! Dude we’re gonna be late!” Someone shouted from across the field, waving and trying to get Lexi’s attention.

“Is that your friend?” Raven let go of her hand, feeling a little disappointed.

“Ah yeah, that’s her. I gotta go, but I’ll see you around, Raven.” Lexi stood up, stretching her arms a bit.

“Uh, w-would it be alright if we meet up tomorrow?” Raven quickly stood up, looking down at Lexi, hoping she’d say yes.

“Tomorrow? I should be able to meet up for sure. When and where?”

“Tomorrow morning, here? If that’s okay.”

“That’s completely fine. See ya then!” Lexi disappeared for a second. When Raven looked up, she saw her across the field.

“Who was that?” Kimberly grins over at Lexi, curious to know of a possible new friend.

“Newly dead, her name’s Raven..”

“Pretty name. Just her?”

Lexi shakes her head. “She has two sisters, she was just feeling lost.”

“I remember that feeling…”

“Yeah...So it’s almost showtime for you isn’t it?”

“Yeah, but you know I get worried…”

“I’m not passing through or whatever. Besides, why would I ever miss a friend's show? You know I can’t.” Lexi smiled as they both disappeared.

Standing in front of the red velvet rope, they showed the guard their IDs. Being let in, they walked through the huge lobby, making their way to the staircase leading downstairs.

“There she is!”

“Here I am! What’s up Bones?” Kimberly gave him her best puppy eyes she could.

“Nope, not gonna work this time. We have ten minutes till curtains up and you were almost a no show.”

“Chill, I was out for a walk. I needed to clear my head a bit. I’m sorry.”

“Change, please.” Bones pointed to the costume on the rack. 

With a snap of her fingers, she changed into the costume her boss designed. “Done.”

“There you two are! Has the boss seen you yet?” Natpai almost rushed into the group.

“Not yet. Is he mad?” Lexi asked, but a shiver ran down her spine when she felt someone standing behind her. Turning around, she saw the owner of the club.

“Mad? No. Irritated? Definitely…” 

“Phantom! I- I mean sir it was my fault. I went out for a walk, and we lost track of time! It won’t happen again.”

Phantom’s eyes glow a bright red for a moment before calming down. “Of course it won’t. You wanna know why?”

They all stayed silent, not daring to say a word.

“I OWN YOU. I GAVE YOU THIS FREEDOM AND I CAN TAKE IT AWAY!”

“Y-yes, sir…”

Adjusting his tie, Phantom’s demeanor became softer. “Now, Mare’s waiting for you three on stage. Bones, Natpai, you two go on ahead.”

The two brothers nodded and gathered their things, rushing off to their places.

Phantom smiled down at the two women in front of him. “My girls,” Placing his hands on their cheeks, he gently stroked his thumb against them. “What were you two up to? You know I keep tabs on you both.” Taking his hands back he looks between the women staring at him. “I know you met someone new. Care to share anything about that?”

“Uh, um, I- I bumped into her. She’s newly dead…” Lexi looked down at her shoes, feeling intimidated. 

“Go on, sweetheart, what else?”

“She also has sisters with her....that’s all I know, sir. We only talked for a few minutes.”

“Interesting. Well, they're newly dead and they seem like ordinary ghosts. I see no reason to invite them here, yet.”

Both Kimberly and Lexi looked up at Phantom. “Invite them?”

“To see a show, of course! Isn’t that what we do here?! We put on shows not just for the living but the dead must also have a place to come and relax.” Phantom looked at his watch. “And look at that, you’re up. You, get to the stage. The band needs a singer, don't they?”

“Yes, sir!” 

“And you, they need their stage manager backstage, don’t they? Get to it!”

“Yes, sir!” Both women go their separate ways, leaving Phantom to walk over to the balcony overlooking the entertainment room. The orb on his cane glowed a dim red.

“We’ll keep an eye on those new ghosts. They might be of use…”

Back at the house, Raven popped back in to see Anne looking through their things and Marie sitting on the floor hunched over her notebook, looking frustrated. “What’s up with you?” 

“Remember the song we were working on? I’ve been trying to finish it, but I can’t figure out the chorus.” Marie frowned, not liking what she wrote.

Raven sat next to her and took the notebook, reading over the lyrics. “Take your jacket out my car, out my car. So I can forget who you are, who you are. Fall forward, fading through catastrophe-feeling.”

 “That’s where I just blank out…”

Raven looked over at Anne. “Have you tried to help?”

“Yup, I couldn’t think of anything either, so I decided to see what else of ours is in this bag.”  Pulling out a red cap, Anne tried it on.

“Hey, that’s mine!” Raven pouted, standing up and dropping the notebook back on the ground next to Marie.

“Guys, don’t make a mess here, we share the space, remember!” Marie raised her voice a little, feeling annoyed.

“Hey…are you guys still here?” You poked your head in to see an annoyed-looking Marie while Raven and Anne had a tug of war with a red cap. “I see I’m interrupting something.”

Anne let go of the cap and smiled, making Raven stumble. “You’re not!”

Raven glared at Anne, dusting off the cap so she could put it on.

“I’m glad I’m not.”  Stepping inside, you closed the door and took a seat on the couch, feeling grateful for not being on your feet for once today.

“Is something wrong?” Anne looked at you concerned.

“Hm? Oh! No, nothing's wrong, just tired from classes and unpacking so much today.”

“That’s understandable. I’m sorry you have a lot on your plate at the moment.” Anne resisted the urge to give your shoulder a gentle squeeze.

“It’s fine. Um, but I do have one thing I wanna get off my to-do list.”

“What is it?” Raven asked as she took a seat in one of the empty chairs.

“I thought about your offer. About joining the band.” All three girls instantly looked at you, hope shining in their eyes. “It took me all day to think about not just joining, but also about signing up for the talent show. It’s a huge thing the college does 'cause it’s not just a talent show. They call it that to make it simpler, but it’s just multiple shows to see who record labels are looking for.”

“Sounds like a lot of fun, honestly.” Marie smiled, sitting up and leaning back against the coffee table.

“It is! Um, but it’s also a lot of work too. Despite that, I think I’m ready to get back into music and sign up for this thing with you guys as a band!”

“Really?!” They immediately said it at the same time, making you giggle and nod.

“Yeah! I think it’ll be a good new path for the future. Ya know, kinda like reshaping the past in a way for myself.”

Marie grinned and quickly grabbed her notebook. “(Y/n), You’re a genius!!!”

“Huh?“ Looking at the other two confused, Raven smiled softly. 

“You just helped Marie finish the chorus of a song we were working on.”

“Oh! Can I see it? If that’s okay.”

“Of course!” Marie happily handed you the notebook, excited to hear what you thought of it.

Taking your time to read through it, you nodded your head while tapping your foot against the floor. “Well, we have the lyrics. I think I have an Idea for music.”

Raven went silent for a moment before she spoke up. “I met someone today while I was on my walk.”

The three of you looked at her curiously. “Who’d you meet?”

“I, uh, met this girl. Her name’s Lexi. She’s also dead like us. She’s really nice, and she helped me out with some things I had difficulty understanding about us being ghosts now.”

“You should invite her to the show!” Anne got excited, bouncing in her chair.

“She’d be the only one to actually see us on stage with (Y/n). I don’t think it would be a problem.” Marie smiled at Raven, playfully poking her cheek. ”You should definitely invite her.”

“Well not just her. Would you be fine if her friend tags along, too?”

Anne giggled, feeling her excitement bubble even more. “Oooo! Another ghost! We can make two new friends now!”

“I think that’d be sweet if you invited them.” You smiled at Raven while handing Marie her notebook back. “I also think I’m going to bed. I’ll see you three bright and early to start working on this song!” Stretching as you stood up, you waved goodbye to them when you started to leave the studio. “Night everyone!”

During the week, you spent most of your free time with the girls working on the song. You taught Anne how to use the soundboard when she played the keyboard. It took the first two days to agree on the drum sounds you’d use, but it worked out in the end. You, Marie, and Raven figured out who would sing what parts of the songs, both girls agreed you’d take the lead for the majority of it while they took backup instead.

The morning of the performance, the four of you looked through your wardrobe to see what you could wear. You settled on an old band shirt, ripped jeans, and a black jean jacket. It was casual, but still fit the mood of the song. The big factor was that you felt comfortable in it and could move around.

“So this is the place?” Lexi looked around the outdoor theatre area, amazed that it was as huge as it was.

“Looks like it...oh! Is that the girl that can see them?” Kimberly looked in your direction, but you didn’t notice since you were setting up the keyboard and soundboard almost off stage.

“Yeah, that’s her.” Lexi smiled when she spotted Raven helping you.

“Why don’t you ask her out?” Kimberly tilted her head, asking genuinely. 

“I- it’s not like that, dude. We’re just friends...”

“Right, just friends. That can change, you know.”

“Shut up. You’re a dork.” Lexi’s cheeks started to turn light pink, feeling a little embarrassed. 

“I’m your dork and you’re stuck with me!” Kimberly laughed when she saw Lexi pout.

“Alright, alright. Settle down, everyone. I believe our next act is ready to begin.” The host of the show looked over at you.

Nervously, you whispered to Marie. “I don’t think I can go through with this after all…”

“You got this, (Y/n), we wouldn't have asked you to do this if we didn't think you were perfect for the part. We’ll be here, just look over at us when you need support, alright? You’re not alone in this.” Marie gave an encouraging smile before you were led out to the stage.

Adjusting the mic to be a bit lower, you looked out into the audience and felt your nerves almost wash away when you saw your friend Erica in the front row, smiling and giving you a thumbs up. “Um, hey, everyone. I hope you guys are enjoying yourselves so far. The song I’ll be performing is called Take Your Jacket. Thank you for listening, and I hope you enjoy it.”

Pressing the button on the soundboard, the music went out through the speakers. Taking a deep breath in, you picked up the mic and started the song.

“You want your song? Well, here's an anthem. You broke my heart and held all of my past to ransom. Well, get a grip. You're not that special. Trying to slip around the demons that you wrestle. Don't get me wrong, I'm trying my hardest. Don't get me wrong, but sometimes the smart ain't strong.”

You were about to look over at the girls, but before you or anyone could prepare themselves, they suddenly appeared on stage, playing their instruments and joining you on the chorus. “Take your jacket out my car, out my car. So I can forget who you are, who you are. Fall forward, fading through catastrophe-feeling. Like the storm will never pass. Break the mold, reshape the past.”

Taking the lead again, you danced over to Marie, singing the next part to her. “Came from beneath and knocked me over. Rotting my teeth, you're sickly sweet like cherry cola.” Continuing to sing, you turned your attention back to the crowd. “No, not this time, no, you won't fool me. Your childish tricks are in the past, I can guarantee. Don't get me wrong, I'm trying my hardest, Don't get me wrong, But being the smartest ain't too clever.”

Raven and Marie joined in on the chorus, jumping and dancing in place. “Take your jacket out my car, out my car. So I can forget who you are, who you are. Fall forward, fading through catastrophe-feeling. Like the storm will never pass. Break the mold, reshape the past.”

You started to dance around on stage with the girls as they played their instrumental parts. It’s then that you all realized the crowd was cheering at all of you. The girls' smiles widened, looking at you and realizing the audience could see them!

Smiling and feeling excited, you took center stage, ready to finish the song on a great note. “Take your jacket out my car, out my car. So I can forget who you are, who you are. Fall forward, fading through catastrophe-feeling. Like the storm will never pass. The hole you left is sore at best. We know this wouldn't last, reshape the past.” 

Hearing the crowd cheer for you all was a feeling you never thought you’d hear again. Looking around at the girls, they smiled at you before they disappeared, leaving a white mist behind. The audience's cheers slowly faded, wondering what happened to the band.

Quickly thinking, you started to explain what just happened. “Uh thank you all for enjoying our performance! We’re The Hex Girls! Hologram band all ran by me, (Y/n) (L/n).” Taking a bow, you left the mic on the stand and ran off stage where Erica was waiting. 

“A hologram band?! Seriously?” She crossed her arms over her chest

“What?” You look at her genuinely confused.

“Why didn’t you tell me about this? (Y/n)? I thought we said no more secrets after what happened with your dad…”

“I….I know I’m sorry but this was super last minute. Please You have to understand-”

“Yeah, understand that my best friend since Elementary School decides to keep it a secret that she joins and makes a band, let alone signs up for this show without telling me either when I was the one encouraging you to do it in the first place?!”

“I’m sorry, seriously! I just wanted it to be a surprise…”

“Sure is a surprise...that you don’t trust me to help with this. You know I don’t like when you put everything on yourself.” Erica sighed and shook her head. “I’m gonna head home.”

“I’ll see you tomorrow then?” You asked her, but it felt more like pleading.

“Probably not…” Erica turned to leave, leaving you alone by the door backstage. 

“That was amazing! They saw us!” Marie shouted in excitement when she caught up with her sisters and two new friends. “So, which one of you is Lexi?”

“That’s me..” Lexi shyly smiled.

Marie hugged her tightly before letting go. “Thanks for helping out my sister the past week. She talks about you a lot, by the way.”

Raven punched Marie’s arm, slightly embarrassed. “Do not, stop lying.”

Anne giggled and mouthed out, “She does” to Lexi, making her blush even more.

Marie pouted at Raven while rubbing her arm, “Geez, you didn’t have to hit that hard.” Looking over at the other two giggling, she smiled. “And how about you?”

“Me? Oh! I’m Kimberly, it's nice to meet you.” Reaching out her hand, Marie took it in hers and shook her hand before taking it back.

Anne pouted, feeling a bit left out. “Why am I the one left out without a cute girl to talk to?”

Both Lexi and Kimberly blushed while Raven and Marie laughed. 

“You’re not being left out, dummy, you’re a part of the group. Stop being a pouty baby, sunshine.” Marie hugged Anne from behind, making her giggle.

From afar, Phantom saw all of them interacting before putting his sunglasses on and making his way back to his car. The soul collector had an idea brewing in his head after seeing that very interesting performance.

Tag List:

@lady-bee-fechin​

@forbiddenstars​

@wildspeciallavender​

@fluffy-demon-wolf​

@huffle-princess​

[sugarbutterbroadway]

Walking mouth and the case of the littles

“This is killin me Davey!”Jack exclaimed, pacing the empty lodging house. “Racetrack been gone all night and he still ain’t back yet, that ain’t like him”

“He’s spent the night out before, what’s the difference?”He asked. Jack’s jaw almost fell from his face as he gaped at the boy. 

“The difference”He spat, “Is that he’s supposed to tell me where he’s going! Instead, he ran like someone lit a fire under his ass!”

Davey’s eyes fluttered towards the ceiling and he took a deep breath. “Lower your voice when you’re talking to me, Jack” He couldn’t see him but he could feel the gears shifting in Jack’s head.

“And what if I don’t?”Jack pressed, “Huh? What’re ya gonna do about it?”

He said nothing and counted back from ten in his head. Jack just wanted a fight, he didn’t have to give in. 

“Exactly, ain’t gonna do shit”

But boy was he good at pushing his buttons. He abandoned his countdown at five and instead pulled Jack in by the collar of his shirt. The boy stumbled forward and Davey would have felt bad if he wasn’t fuming.

“Shut. Up.”he said through clenched teeth. Jack squirmed in his grasp but he just held him tighter.

“The walkin mouth is tellin me to shut up?”Jack smirked, “That’s rich”

Any ounce of control Davey had snapped. His hand flew from the collar of Jack’s shirt to his jaw and he gripped it. His blunt nails dug into flesh and he pulled his chin up so the two were eye to eye. His body felt like it was on fire and his hands were trembling a bit but he was furious.

“What the hell Davey—!”

“Shut up!”he snapped. He hummed in satisfaction when Jack reluctantly closed his mouth.

“It’s my turn to speak”He said, chest heaving. “When I say lower your voice with me, you lower your voice. I’m here to help you, I could be at home or at the courtyard at school but I am here. I know you’re scared—hell i’m scared too, but you catching an attitude is not helping anyone. I know your first instinct is to lash out but I can promise you if you pull that shit again that you just did I will walk out that door and never come back. It didn’t feel good Jackie, it really didn’t”

At this point he had loosened his grip on the boys jaw to the point where he was just holding it. And Jack leaned into the touch, matter of fact his whole body leaned against Davey’s and went slack. Davey clicked his teeth and wrapped his arms around Jack’s frame, pulling him as close as their bodies would allow.

“Is this what you needed?”He asked. Jack pulled his face up into the crook of his neck and nodded. They were still for a few moments before Jack let out a quiet sound and his body began to tremble. Davey felt hot tears hit his neck and he frowned.

“Oh Jackie”He said in that soft tone, the one only Jack got to hear, the one he had taken for granted. In response Jack whimpered and balled up his fists in the material of Davey’s shirt.

“ ‘m so scared Davey”Jack whispered, Davey felt him hiccup, “ ‘m so fuckin scared, I just want him to come home”

“I know Jackie, I know”he hushed, “He’s gonna come back”

“I fucked up”Jack said after a few beats. He pulled away quickly and rubbed at his eyes.

“How?”He asked.

“I can’t keep doin this to you”Jack said, “Like you said I-I lash out and I treat you in a way that you shouldn’t be”

“How should I be treated then?”He said, raising a brow. “Humor me Kelly”

“Like you’s the king of New York”Jack said, “You should get flowers and chocolates an-and I should be nicer to you-”

“It sounds like you want me to be your beau”He teased. Jack’s face flushed scarlet and for once he looked bashful.

“I thought you already was”Jack said quietly. Now it was Davey’s turn to blush.

“Oh”He said eloquently.

“I like you Davey”Jack said. “You’s smart, got a good head on your shoulders. You don’t put up with my shit. I like that when I push you push back twice as hard, ya know? You put me in my place”

“Huh”He said, he wanted to say so much more but it was like he couldn’t move his mouth.

“Please say more than that”Jack begged.

“So you like me because I make you treat me with respect?”He said slowly.

“I mean yes but that’s not it!”Jack insisted. “Like you said, you’s here now. Not at the schoolyard,not at home with ya family. You coulda just soaked me earlier but you...you talked to me, you made me understand why i’m wrong. Not many people can do that”

“Okay”Davey said.

“Okay?”He echoed.

“Yeah, okay”He said. He could feel the tips of his ears burning but he wasn’t giving in that easily.

“Can I kiss you?”Jack said, although he looked very confused.

“What’s with the face?”He asked instead.

“I’m um...I’m kinda used to uh…”Jack said, gesturing vaguely.

“You’re used to people swooning for you?”He asked. Jack nodded helplessly.

“It takes a lot to make me swoon Kelly, you’re gonna have to work for it”He said with a wink.

“Y-yeah of course Davey”Jack said. “But um...are we on the same page here?”

Davey decided to take pity on him and grabbed his hand, “C’mere”

Jack shuffled a few steps forward and Davey leaned in. Every fiber in his body was telling him to stop, that he’d never done this before and to think. But to hear Jack gasp and feel his legs go weak was a power rush. He planted his hands firmly on Jack’s waist and tried to match what he was doing. And every teacher that Davey’s had will tell you that he’s a fast learner. Once they had a steady rhythm he pulled Jack’s hips closer and relished in the tiny squeak. Before things could go any further he pulled away and smirked as Jacks lips tried to follow his.

“Yer evil Davey”Jack panted, resting his head on Davey’s chest.

“I like you too you idiot”He said, hoping he didn’t look as rough as his voice sounded. “But you’re not off the hook”

“ ‘m not?”Jack whined. “Why not?”

“You gotta prove you’re gonna treat me with respect”He said, “None of that shit you pulled earlier”

“And how am I gonna do that?”Jack asked.

“Well we skipped a few steps but how about we start with a date?”He said.

“Or I can take you up to my penthouse and show you how sorry I am?”Jack said wiggling his brows.

“Or you can keep your pants on and rejoice in the fact that you’ve got an able left hand”He scoffed.

“A dirty joke from Davey?”Jack said, holding a hand to his chest “Well color me surprised”

“Shut up”He said rolling his eyes and pushing Jack’s shoulders. “Should’ve left after your mouth started going”

“You’s hot when yer angry”Jack said already moving closer.

“Incorrigible”He said shaking his head, but he didn’t push him away this time.

“I got a lot of lost time to make up for”Jack said and brought one of Davey’s hands up to kiss. “Now if you’ll have me we can still go up to my penthouse-”

“Jack-!”

“To talk”Jack said with a smirk, “That’s what people do ain’t it? I won’t touch you Davey, promise. I’m gonna romance you the Jack Kelly way sweetheart, you’ll never know what hit you”

“And he’s back”He said under his breath. “Don’t sweetheart me Kelly, we both know it doesn’t suit me” He wanted to be serious but he couldn’t help but smile at the look of determination on Jack’s face.

“Alright then”Jack said, “I’ll find something that suits then”

“Have fun with that”

“I’m gonna do it!”

“I don’t doubt you Jackie”He chuckled, “Just think of something original, yeah? Nothing that’s been used on your other beaus”

“Ain’t been no other beaus”Jack said, “Just one dame and you Davey, you’s the only one who got close enough, you’s the real deal”

He couldn’t help the gasp that slipped past his lips. Hearing those words made his body run warm and his heart skip a beat or maybe two, was he even breathing?

“I’ve got the walkin mouth speechless”Jack said with a smile, a genuine smile. Davey suddenly had the urge to kiss those smiling lips, but he controlled himself.

“But you...I’ve seen all those people falling at your feet”He said, “you’ve got dames busting out of their corsets for a chance with you”

“Doesn mean I want them Davey”Jack said shaking his head, “I just wanted you”

“You’re a romantic…”he said in awe.

“Took you long enough to find out”Jack said rolling his eyes, “I’m sweet on you Davey, I dunno how many other ways I can say this”

“No no, it’s not you”He said quickly, “it’s just...this is different...I-no one has ever been um… ‘sweet’ on me”

“Well that’s a damn shame because you are beautiful, so damn beautiful”Jack said. Davey wasn’t expecting it but hearing that shocked him to his core. His hands clenched at his side and his body went ridgid.

“Aha that’s the one”Jack said, Davey could hear him smirking. “You like being called beautiful.”

“Shut up”He said pathethically, he felt embarrassed. It was silly to get worked up over something so simple but here he was on the verge of tears because Jack Kelly called him beautiful.

“Hey”Jack said, placing a hand on his cheek. “You don’t gotta be so shy Davey, I’ll call you beautiful ‘til the day I die.”

“But i’m so plain”The words slipped out before he could think about them.

“Ain’t nothin wrong with bein plain”Jack said, “Flowers and birds and buildings and the sky is plain but they’s still beautiful. You got such pretty eyes and yer nose scrunches up when yer thinkin and you bite yer lip when you’s nervous and you look so beautiful when yer smilin-”

“Jack stop it before I cry and it gets awkward for both of us”He choked out.

“Ain’t nothin wrong with cryin”Jack said, “Just means I need to let you know you’s beautiful more often, maybe one day you’ll hear it and you’ll smile instead”

“For someone who’s not good with words you sure know what to say”He said with a sniffle.

“I only know what to say when there’s something worth sayin”Jack said with a shrug. “You make my brain work”

“Your brain works all on its own”He said rolling his eyes. He brought his hand up to cover Jacks and pulled him close until they were nose to nose.

“I think I wanna stay the night”He whispered, “I already brought Les home, my parents’ll just assume i’m here” 

“I think I want you to stay too”Jack whispered back, “I’ll be a perfect gentleman Davey, I’ll treat you how you deserve”

“I just wanted to test you”He chuckled. “You treat me fine already”

“But I don’t treat you fine”Jack said, “you told me that, don’t take it back.”

“I won’t then”He said, “I also won’t object to seeing Mr. Jack Kelly act like a gentleman”

“I’ll start right now”Jack said with a cheeky grin. He pulled away and cleared his throat. “Mr. Jacobs, would you do me the absolute honor of letting me hold your hand?”

“Impressive”He said taking his hand, “You used correct grammar and everything”

“I learned that from bein around Medda”Jack said bumping his hip. “I can talk fancy too if that’s what you like”

“I don’t”He said. He took the initiative to continue when Jack raised a brow. “I’m around people who talk fancy all day, I like the way you speak, it’s charming”

“Charming?”Jack said, wiggling his brows, “For sure?”

“For sure”he mimicked and laughed at the surprise on Jacks face. “What, you think I just talk like this? I got an accent too Jackie, ‘m just better a hiding it”

“Dear lord if I wasn’ tryin to be a gentleman we would be up on that penthouse right now”Jack said with wide eyes. “I think that’s the most attractive thing that’s ever come out of your mouth”

“You like it when I talk like you?”He giggled.

“Hell yeah I do Davey”Jack said, “Where’ve you been keepin that?”

“In my back pocket”He said with a wink, “My ma doesn’t like it when we talk like this,neither does the school but it just feels…”

“Right?”Jack said.

“Yeah”He said, “Feels right, just like bein here with you”

“And i’m the romantic”Jack said rolling his eyes.

“It’s not me bein romantic”He said, “Just telling the truth, I like spending time with you”

“And I like spending time with you”Jack said, “Which means, you should be my beau”

“Nope, still gotta earn that”

“Damn it!”Jack said, “really thought I had ya this time”

“Of course you did”he said squeezing his hand, “We really gotta thank Race” “Thank Race?”Jack said, “For what? ‘m gonna kick his ass when he shows up”

“If I didn’t almost hit you for worrying we would have never gotten to this point!”He laughed, “Look at Race being a matchmaker even when he’s not physically here”

“Wait wait, almost hit me?”Jack said, “you were gonna hit me!”

“I was thinking about it”He said, “I was only going to do it if you hit me first”

“I would never hit you!”

“You pushed me into a streetlight yesterday!”

“Well it ain’t my fault you tripped over the curb!”

“Unbelievable”He said, “We just argued and made up and now we’re arguing again, does it ever end?”

“I think that might just be a part of our charm, beautiful”Jack said with a goofy grin.

“Also I was meaning to tell you this earlier but someone had an attitude and wasn’t thinking straight”He said pointedly. “You said our boys have been all over, right?”

Jack nodded. 

“But have they been to Brooklyn yet?”

“No”Jack said quickly, “Ain’t no one allowed in Brooklyn except Race-oh”

“Ya see?”He said, “Racetrack is fine. If he’s not here then the only logical place he would be is Brooklyn”

“I still don’t see how him and that Spot is friends”Jack muttered, “ain’t a good bone in that kids body”

“I bet people say that about you too”He said with a smile, “It’s all about perspective Jackie. Who knows? Spot may be sweet to him”

“Spot Conlon?”Jack blanched, “Sweet? I bet he kicks puppies for fun”

“Perspective Jackie, Perspective”

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

Race couldn’t help but giggle at the sight in front of him. The big bad King of Brooklyn holding a tiny boy’s hand as they walked back to the lodging. They apparently called him Shadow, he was tiny and quiet and stuck close to Spot from the first moment he got there. He wondered why the Brooklyn lodging took in so many children, it didn’t seem practical. Back in Manhattan the youngest in the lodging was Les—who was now ten—and he only stayed there once a month. This little boy had to about five, it made his heart ache. Far too young to be selling papes, it looked like he still sucks his thumb.

As the day progressed it seems not only Shadow, but all the littles were drawn to Spot. The minute they walked in it felt like he was wading in a sea of children. Instead of brushing them off Spot laughed and hugged each and every one of them individually, there had to be at least ten of them. Race watched in awe as he lowered himself to the floor and the kids did the same. He met Blanco’s eye and he walked over.

“They’re always like this” addressing a question Race hadn’t even asked.

“It’s like an orphanage in here”Race joked, Blanco simply shook his head with a smile.

“Boss has a soft spot for children”He said, “Any kid who needs a place to go usually ends up here. He breaks his back for them honestly, and most of them don’ even know it. He wan’s to keep it that way, ya know? Give ‘em the chance to be kids”

Race felt his heart swell and he couldn’t even doubt the love he felt right now. He waited until the children eventually dispersed and made his way over to Spot.

“Racer! ‘m sorry that took so long-”

“My god i’m so in love with you”he said. Without a word he had pulled Spot down the hallway and pinned him to a wall.

“Race-”

“Wanna marry you Spot”He said, planting a kiss on his neck. “Don know how we’s gonna do it but ‘m gonna marry you. Gonna get us a nice house where no one can bother us and we can adopt all the littles you want-”

“Racer!-”

“We’s gonna have a nice yard—tilt yer head—gonna give you life you want even if i ain’t a dame-”

“Tony!”Spot gasped, pushing at his shoulders. “I ain’t mad about what just happened, but where the hell did that come from?”

Race felt his cheeks heat up and took a deep breath trying to slow his breathing. “You’s just so good with the littles it made me feel funny”

“Funny enough to almost nail me against the wall?”Spot said incredulously.

“Shit”He winced, “I didn’ mean to do that it just...I dunno, I guess it made me realize how much I love you”

“You’s a funny one for sure Racer”Spot said, “remind me not to play patty cake with ‘em or nothin before you do somethin indecent”

“I said I was sorry”He whined, “I ain’t gonna kiss you in front of the kids or nothin”

“You’s strong too”Spot commented, “Didn know you had it in you”

“What?”he asked, tilting his head.

“You dragged me down the hall and pinned me to the wall”Spot said, “Angel, my feet wasn touchin the ground”

“Oh shit!”He cursed. “ ‘m sorry, I just-”

“I ain’t never said I didn’ like it”Spot smirked. “Just be careful and don do it too often. I’m still gone for you but my kids come first, they get jealous when I ain’t payin attention to them”

“Wouldn’ have it any other way”He said nodding dopily, “but I should be gettin back soon, Jack’s probably havin a fit an makin Davey lose his mind”

“I got respect for him”Spot said, “Can’t no one make Jack Kelly shut up like he can”

“Believe me, they both know it”He said, rolling his eyes. “I just wished they get their heads outta their asses and get together all ready”

“You,me and all of New York”Spot said, “I’ll walk back with you, lemme just let Hotshot know that i’m leavin”

Race nodded and waited by the front door. It took Spot a little longer than expected but he emerged with an apple and Shadow trailing behind him.

“Alright let’s go”Spot said. Shadow immediately grabbed onto his hand and they were out the door. A few minutes into the walk Race felt a tiny hand grab onto his, his heart melted as he looked down to see shadow smiling at him. Spot was smiling too.

“He’s the toughest one to crack but, he approves”He said. Race smiled and gently swung his hands urging Spot to do the same. Soon enough shadow was giggling between them as he was lifted and swung back and forth. Race wanted to paint this image in his head forever, it was a sight he could definitely see himself getting used to.

[forlornmelody]

Trust Exercise

Rating: E (Smut with some plot, for flavor.)

Fandom(s): DC Comics

Ship: Poison Ivy/Harley Quinn

Linkage: Ao3

Summary: Harley wants to try something new, but Ivy isn't sure her girlfriend is ready to see that part of her.

Note: Commission for @rookie009. Dude, thank you so much for commissioning me again. And insisting I write my faves. <3

->->->

Ivy’s in the lab when Harley finds her, nose-deep in an experiment she’s been running all day. “Oh, hey, babe. Did you get my text?”

“Mmhm.” Harley’s hands grasp her shoulders, her fingers meandering past the collar of her lab coat. 

“So, you know that I can’t do date night tonight.” Harley’s lips find her cheek, then her ear, and the tissue culture Ivy’s been working on for the past hour slips from her fingers. 

“Sure you can.” Her lips meander down her neck, as Ivy stares at the ruined culture with both horror and... arousal. Something hot roils in her belly, and Ivy stifles it as she turns around. 

“Harley. How many times do I have to tell you--”

“Mm. You’re even more pretty when you’re angry.” Harley grabs Ivy by the lapel of her lab coat, pulling her in for a kiss. The jungle surrounding the lab roils as if shaken in a gale force wind. 

Ivy breathes her in, and pushes her back, holding her girlfriend at arm’s length. “Harl, if you want me to tie you up, you only need to ask.”

Harley flushes, biting her lip as she glances away. Ivy draws her attention back with a finger under her chin. “Do you want me to tie you up?”

“Ives…”

“Harleen Francis Quinzel, I promise you I won’t ask again.”

“Yes!” Harley says quickly.

“Yes, what?”

“Tie me up.” Harleen swallows, her tongue darting out to wet her lip. 

“And?”

Her skin blushes pink as one of her pigtails, and Ivy almost doesn’t hear her. 

“What?”

“I said use your vines.”

“You sure?” The words fall out of Ivy’s mouth before she realizes what she’s asking. Sure, she’s usually the dominant one in bed--Ivy knows what she likes and how to ask for it. But this...Damnit, Pamela. What if this is too much? What if being tied up and used reminds her too much of…. Ivy doesn’t even think his name. She just conjures up an image in her head and sets it on fire. 

“Ives?” Harley says, her eyes widening and her mouth shrinking into a small oh. 

“Sorry?” 

“You okay, Pam-a-lamb?” Harley brushes her thumb across Ivy’s cheek, pushing a wisp of hair out of the way. God, she must look like a mess right now. 

“Of course!” she lies, and a nearby fittonia albivenis wilts in protest. Charlie, as she liked to call him, always is a dramatic asshole. “Go on.”

“You sure? Cause George doesn’t look so good.”

“Charlie.” Ivy sighs, rubbing her forehead.  “His name is Charlie.” She nods over at the opposite corner, where a helianthus annuus, commonly known as a sunflower, is giving her a judgmental stare. “That’s George.” 

“Daisy Girl...if the plants are upset, you must be upset.” Harley Quinn leans closer, so Ivy has to meet her eyes. “You can’t lie to a therapist, remember?”

“I can try,” Ivy mutters. 

“I know you too well, Pam-jam. Now tell me what’s eatin’ ya.”

Now, Doctor Pamela Isley could uncover her sordid history with her parents, charm school, the nice conservative respectable university her parents sent her off to--the one she dropped out of and ran away from, the respectable open minded one she graduated from, the mentor who ruined her and created her, and the day they met in Arkham, but Harley already knows she doesn’t dump her past out of the trash can for everyone to see, especially when there’s a bed in sight, metaphorically speaking. God, what a buzzkill that would be. “I want to believe you, Harls. When you say you want this.” Ivy presses her thumb into Harley’s bottom lip. “But how do I know you’re not just saying this to make me happy?” Like she always would with...well. 

“Easy. You trust me.”

Does she? 

The powder-mix lemonade crashes against the opposite wall, barely missing her therapist’s head. “Stop fucking analyzing me. I’m not your rat.”

Dr. Quinzel doesn’t defend herself or argue against the insult. “You’ve good aim.” She does, however, flinch. Something twists in Ivy’s gut. At first, she thinks the Morton’s cafeteria slop has turned sour yet again, but Ivy notices the feeling runs deeper this time, and it spreads like frost throughout her middle, all the way to her lungs. “Softball?”

Fucking hell. She’s feeling remorse. “Gymnastics.” The answer spills out of Ivy’s mouth before she can stop it. 

And then Dr. Quinzel’s face lights up like a Christmas tree. “Me too! Did you compete? Which team?” 

Ivy spills some more, and they swap memories, apparently having crossed paths without remembering the other at one point or another. Not that Dr. Quinzel would have ever recognized Dr. Pamela Isley when she was a tween with braces and an awkward smile. Or Dr. Isley would have remembered Dr. Quinzel was a spirited overachiever with a chip on her shoulder. Actually, Pamela takes that back. She can see some of it now. She also notices Dr. Quinzel’s hands intertwined with her own. And the warmth between them. 

 “Please, call me Harleen.” Harleen smiles shyly, biting her lip. 

Ivy gulps. “Do all your patients get to call you that?”

And just like that the moment’s gone. But Ivy’s hands feel warm long after Dr. Isley has left the room. 

->->->

Ivy should have known this was a set up. The security guard missing from his post. The alarms turned off. The dark room where the lights should have had motion sensors and generator backup. She should have turned back the moment she noticed, but she couldn’t leave this warehouse like this. Not with one of two middlemist camellias sitting inside, ripped from its soil in New Zealand and brought to Gotham for a filthy auction.

The moment Ivy touches the leaves the door slams shut behind her, and she notices the sealant sprayed on all the windows. Oh no. A hose hisses on the floor, and Ivy slowly feels the air being sucked from the room. No. No. No. Not like this.

There’s no chair, no bat, nothing to break the windows with. Just Dr. Pamela Isley and the lonely Middlemist’s Red that will die with her. Pam closes her eyes, and tries not to hyperventilate, counting her breaths just like Harley taught her—

“NOT TODAY ASSHATS.” Glass shards rain on the floor, and an alluminum bat clangs against the concrete floor. “Pambsel?” Soft fingers touch her shoulder. “Ivy? Come on, Ivy. Stay with me.”

“Ivy?” Harley’s staring at her in their bedroom, her eyebrows lifted in concern.

“I trust you more than anyone else.”

Harley brushes her lips against hers. “And I trust you more than a stripper trusts her heels.”

“God.” Ivy chortles despite herself. “That’s terrible, Harley. Maybe I should keep you from talking.” Those words sound so...different once they’re out of her mouth. Like cinnamon candy burning on her lips. 

For once, Harleen Francis Quinnzel has nothing to say. Her mouth hangs slightly open, to the point that Ivy wants to trace it with her fingertip, maybe slip her finger past those lips to see Harley suck on— “Would you?” Harley whispers, blushing as pink as one of her pigtails. 

“I’d love to.” It’s a little unnerving how easily this comes to her. “But there’s only one thing.”

“What’s that?” Harley leans closer, her hands grasping at Ivy’s clothes, pleading without pleading. 

“What’s our safe-word?”

“Puddin’?”

“Absolutely not.”

“Batman?”

“Nope.”

“Come on, Pretty Girl. You’re killin’ me here.”

“It has to be a word we both agree to, Harley. Rules are rules.”

“Says who?” Harley leans in close, her hands on her hips. 

Ivy smirks at her, whispering in her ear. “Says the woman who is about to give you a night you won’t forget.”

At this point, Ivy half expects Harley to say Arkham, but she doesn’t. “Robinson Park.” 

It’s Ivy’s turn to lose her words. Of course, Harley would name her old hideout. Well. Not just any old hideout. The place where they first kissed. “That’s--that’s two words.”

Harley grins proudly, pressing a soft kiss against her cheek. “Does that break the rules, Rosey Cheeks?”

Ivy allows it. She also allows herself to check with Harley several times as she persuades a nearby pharnera vahili to stretch towards them. The plant balks initially at the thought of making its flower buds large enough to penetrate, but Ivy mutters a quiet “Coward” and the plant swells to prove her wrong. Perhaps Peter would be a fitting name for this one? Brushing the buds, she strengthens him, hardens them, really, and shoos any creatures or enzymes that would bring harm to her favorite person in the whole world. 

“Ready, Harley?”

Harley nods, biting a grin. 

Ivy steps towards her, pinching her chin between her finger and thumb. “If this is going to work, I’m going to need you to use your words, Harleen.”

“Yes.” Harley gulps a breath of air, and she closes her eyes as if she’s about to kiss her. 

Pulling out of her reach, Ivy returns to Peter, stroking a few tendrils, feigning more interest in them than her lover. “Then remove your shorts. I’d hate to ruin them.” 

“These always were your favorite, weren’t they, Red?”

Indeed, they are. “Perhaps.” Ivy can’t help but watch them slip down Harley’s cream-colored thighs. She itches to get between them but that will have to wait. “Now lay down.”

“But--”

“It’ll be easier to secure you from the bed, trust me.”

“Always.”

Again, that itch. That burning unyielding need to touch every inch of Harley’s skin, exposed or not. This is just as much an exercise in patience for her as it is for Harley. Ivy whisks her fingers, curling the vines around Harley’s wrists and ankles. “Is that comfortable?”

Harley nods quickly, only to see Ivy quirk her eyebrow impatiently. “Yes, Ives,” she says, her breath ragged. 

“How about now?” The vines lengthen and grow, suspending Harley’s prone body in the air. Ivy wishes she could draw how beautiful Harley looks like this, her mouth parted and arched back, her legs already flushes with need. 

“Amazing.” Harley closes her eyes. “I feel like I’m floating.” 

“And what is our safe word, again?”

Harley starts to say it, only for Ivy to brush between her calves with a tendril.

“That tickles!” 

“Don’t squirm.” Ivy smirks despite herself, stroking the inside of Harley’s legs, from the bottoms of her calves to the narrowest point between her thighs, edging around her center but never quite touching it. 

Twisting in her restraints, Harley groans. “Don’t tease me, Pam-Pam.”

“I believe you asked me to tease you. Isn’t that the point?” The tendril snakes past her middle, scratching under her chin. “To make you beg for it?”

“Please.” The vine edges back down, circling her warmth, now moist with the juices dripping down her legs. 

“Please what?”

“Touch me.” She pleads, seeing Ivy’s lips pressed in a thin line. “Touch my clit.”

“That’s my girl.” Ivy resists the urge to mirror the motion of her plant. Her own thighs twitch with want. Her vine grazes Harley’s lower lips, feather light in their touch, and Ivy aches at the whimper slipping from Harley’s mouth. She keeps circling with smaller and smaller circles until Harley shakes and keens. And that’s when she drags the vine against where Harley wants her most. 

“Oh fuck. Fuckity-fuck fuck.” Harley strains against her bonds, her hips writhing against the vine. 

Ivy licks her lips. “Would you like this vine inside you?”

“Mmhm...y-yeah.” Harley’s voice breaks on the edge of her first orgasm. 

Then Ivy pulls away.

“No, Ives, please. Please touch me. I’m--I’m so close.” 

“I know, Harl.” Ives steps around the now massive bulk Peter has grown into, caressing Harley’s own cheek with the back of her own hand. God, she wants to tear off all their clothes right now and just have her way, but she can’t. Not yet. “I’m going to give you something special.” One nail presses into Harley’s cheek, enough to indent, but enough to break the skin. “Would you like to know what it is?”

Sweat glistens around Harley’s hairline as she looks back at Ivy helplessly. “Yeah.” She manages. 

Shit. She must be thirsty. “Hold on.” She snatches a water bottle, holding it to Harley’s lips. “Drink some water.” Ivy doesn’t pull the bottle away until Harley’s finished it. She downs her tea. Then she rubs her fingers together, until oily spots form on her fingertips. “This oil will heighten your sensations. Do you want it?”

Harley can’t even form words at first, but she manages. “Please, Pammin-Jammin. I need you.”

Ivy also licks her lips, her entire mouth tasting like vegetable oil, but stronger. And the oil packs some heat. Not enough to burn, but enough that she’ll need to wash her mouth out later if she’s going to focus on anything. “I need you too, Harley.” She brushes her lips against Harley’s and want hits her like a gale-force wind. With the way Harley moans into her mouth--she feels that way too. Patience. Even the quickest-growing plants need time to breathe. 

Before Harley can deepen the kiss, Ivy trails her lips down her chin, her neck, and her collar bone. She massages her shoulders, her arms, then up her sides and back down again. Ivy kisses down to her chest, avoiding Harley’s already too sensitive tits and just focusing on the valley between them, pausing a moment to listen to her quickening heartbeat. Harley squirms, and Ivy holds her steady, paying careful attention to the planes of her abdomen. Her hands move around Harley’s hips, pinching either side of her ass, covering her thighs and in between. “Oh, Ivy.”

When Ivy finishes caressing Harley’s feet, she stands up to see Harley’s face caught like a saint in a Raphaelite painting. She guides her own hands around one of the tendrils, slowly, gently penetrating her as if she were using a dildo. And when the tendril is as far in as it’ll go, Ivy grins against her ear. “Ready?”

“Mmhm,” Harley whimpers. 

Ivy snaps her fingers, and the tendril takes on life of its own, pumping in and out of her lover without any guidance from her. 

“Fuck!” Harley gasps, her wrists twisting in her bonds as she seeks purchase to rock back against the vine. “Oh, fuck that’s good.”

Ivy finds her hands drifting down towards her legs. She clenches them behind her back to hold them still. Not yet. Focus on Harley. But focusing on her and how fucked she is seems to be part of Ivy’s problem. Licking her lips, she asks, “How do you feel about anal?”

“Mm?” Harley probably means to ask, but her mm sounds more like a moan than anything else. 

Making a point of rolling her eyes, Ivy snaps her fingers a second time, and the vine pulls out of her. 

“No no no. Please. I was almost…”

“I asked you a question, Harl.” Ivy growls, more from arousal than annoyance, but Harley’s eyes widen.

“What was the question?”

“Do you.” Ivy grips Harley’s chin. “Like. Anal sex?”

 Harley’s eyes brighten and her frown morphs into an ecstatic smile. “Double penetration?” She bites her lip. “Would you?”

“I’d love to. But first.” Ivy pulls out a familiar bottle--her own recipe. She squirts a generous amount on her fingers, and ringing a circle around Harley’s butt hole, and then little by little, probing inside with her finger. “Good girl,” she whispers in Harley’s ear. Her lover starts to tense up, and Ivy holds her hip firmly with her other hand. “Relax. You are the most amazing person I’ve ever known, and you have done the impossible time and time again.” 

“You...you really think t-that?”

“I know that, Harley.” Her finger gets pulled deeper inside, and Ivy works her open gently, as Harley’s eyes glaze over and her mouth drops open. “And tonight, I’m going to make you feel how amazing you are. Do you trust me?”

“Mm. Y-yeah.”

“Then you’re gonna take more for me.” Ivy whispers, taking Harley’s lobe between her teeth. Harley shudders and nods, and Ivy, slowly, gently, and with more oil, adds a second finger. 

“Nn--Ivy, Oh god. Please. I--I need.”

“Need what?”

“More.” 

“More what?”

Harley moans--whimpers in reply, “I---make me come,” she begs, sprawled in mid-air, and Ivy raises her free hand to pull the prepared vines. “Pam-Pam, please.” She croaks. “Please, Pamela.”

The vine droops just inches from Harley’s hips.

“Pamela Isley!” Mrs. Saint-Claire always pops the p in Pamela’s name, and spittle flies out of her mouth. How many times do I have to tell you!” Those skeletal hands jerk her shoulders back. “Back straight! Like a puppet on a string!” Pam’s so tired. She just wants to go home. Well, maybe not home. “And smile for once! It won’t kill you.” Mrs. Saint-Claire yanks her wild curls into a peppy poiny tail. “How are you going to win a man like this?”

“Pam-pam?” Harley’s looking back at her, her eyes still dark with want and pleasure, but her eyebrows are lifted in concern.

Maybe Ivy should hold back, more. What if she goes too far? But Harley would tell her. She’d say the word. She doesn’t pretend, not in bed, not unless that’s...well. Maybe it would be nice to pretend. A different time, perhaps. 

“I’m still here,” Pamela says more to herself than Harley, and she refreshes that vine until it’s erect and moving again. “Are you?” She coats the vine slick with oil, and she slips her fingers out completely. 

“Yes, yes, please.”

“Then take it.” The vine enters her slowly, filling her already stretched hole, pumping in tandem with the other in her cunt. And fuck it, Ivy reaches down and touches her own center, hissing at how sensitive she is already. 

“Yes, yes, yes!!” Harley’s always been loud in bed, but she’s never screamed like this. Ivy smirks, directing a third vine to mimic the motions on Harley’s clit that Ivy’s already doing to her own. And oh, Harley shakes, rattles, so full and so hung she can’t move, only ride the wave as the vines move in and out and around her. “Fuck yes.”

“Are you close, Harley?”

“Y-yeah….” And then her eyes shut, and her mouth forms a silent oh, and her body jerks, clenching around the vines.

“That’s my girl.” And Ivy brings her down slowly until Harley relaxes, and she pulls the vines away, untying her wrists and ankles and holding her close. “How’re you feeling, Harls?”

Her lover doesn’t answer at first, nestled against Ivy’s breast, her eyes distant and warm. “Thank you.” Harley nestles into her breast, breathing her in. “I feel amazing, as promised.” She giggles, and Ivy’s so busy laughing with her to notice the hand creeping towards her now naked legs. “Oooooo. What’s this?”

Ivy gasps, unable to help her moan at Harley’s touch. “Harley, you don’t have to--”

“Jesus fuck, you’re wet. Why didn’ you say somethin’?” Harley toys with her, circling her engorged clit and playing with her labia.

Ivy can’t bring herself to her own defense, too focused on how nice Harley’s fingers feel. She squirms, gripping Harley’s shoulders. “Harley--”

“Shh. C’mere. Lemme return the favor.” And then Harley lays back on a newly formed flower bed. With strength Ivy didn’t think she’d have at this point; Harley pulls Ivy’s thighs towards her face. 

“You sure?”

“Isely you’ve gotta stop asking me that.” She tilts her head up, kissing the inside of Ivy’s thigh. “I love you. Of course, I’m sure.” Her lips drift toward Ivy’s center, half-cleaning up the mess they’ve made, half-making it worse. 

Biting her lip, Ivy swallows her gasps, trying to hold on. “Harl, I--” Oh. It’s like she’s never felt another’s mouth on her, though clearly Harley (among others) have been down more than she can count. 

“Shh,” Harley manages to say between long licks. She edges the tip of her tongue around her clit, drinking her in without drying her up. Fuck, she still has pleasure oil on her tongue. Not as strong as at first, but Ivy doesn’t need that strength. 

Maybe that’s what love is. Trust that the other person won’t let you fall when you step too far off the ledge. Someone to hold your hand when you do fall, so you can fall down together. Someone to pick you back up. “Harley, I need--oh.” Ivy groans.

“‘S okay, Ives. Ride me.”

Ivy doesn’t need to be told twice. She grinds down, not so hard as to smother Harley, but enough to feel her mouth that much more. Oh god, fuck, she’s sucking her clit and--

When Ivy comes to, she’s lying on her side, with Harley playing the big spoon. “Holy shit, Harley,” she says, her mouth dry as cotton. 

“Your turn,” Harley shoves the water bottle in her face, and Ivy drinks it dry. “Not bad, eh?”

“Not bad at all.”

[returnn-of-the-mac]

Okay, so how about romanced companions are telling sole about their sexual/romantic history?

Hello! Hello! I had been sitting on this one for a while and I apologize, but something clicked today and I was like yes. This is how I’m gonna write it. So here ya go! No intro because I feel like the conversation leading up to these confessions would all be so different so. Please enjoy! 😊  

Oh and Gage and Cait’s reacts are references to two drabbles I wrote a while ago which I will link.

Gage Fic/  Cait Fic

FO4 (❤️) Companions React: Telling Sole About Their Sexual/Romantic History

Gage:

“I’m er…I’m not really a romantic guy, yanno. I never really had any real relationships,” the Raider explained, “Not much one for one night stands either although I did have one…ended up losin my eye from it too.”

Sole perked up and their lover scowled.

“It was stupid. I got drunk and fucked Nisha’s sister…er, adopted sister. She was psycho. Said she liked it rough and the gouged my eyeball clean out,” Gage shuttered at the memory, “I kicked her off me and she hit her head. Hard. Ended up killin her by mistake.”

The Raider looked at the ground.

“I joke about it, but it was pretty fucking traumatic. I haven’t been with anyone since then, really. But I trust you, boss,” Gage smiled and pulled Sole into a rough hug, “This is a real good thing we’ve got goin here, and I’m more than happy to be with you.”

Preston:

“I’ve had…well, you know, ‘crushes’ on people, but you’re the first person I’ve ever had any kind of romantic relationship with,” Preston confessed, “And I’m honestly okay with that. I’d rather experience all of my firsts with you than with anyone else.”

Cait:

“Talkin about my romantic past is nothin I wanna do. It’s pretty fuckin traumatic,” Cait spat, “I had a single one-night-stand that was consensual and the fucker ended up pukin all over me.“

Sole nodded their head, remembering the story, and Cait glared.

“Yeah, yeah. And it was fuckin Rhys. Damn did I dodge a bullet.”

The redhead sighed.

“But at least I’m with ye now and that’s the important thing.”

Danse:

“I admittedly haven’t had much of a romantic past. I’ve made a few questionable decisions in Rivet City that I’m not proud of, and despite everything that Haylen and I have gone though, our relationship is strictly platonic,” Danse continued, “As for my relationship with Cutler…I’d be lying if I denied ever questioning the nature of our relationship, but due to…unforeseen circumstances…nothing came of it.”

Sole patiently waited for their lover to continue.

“But being with you feels different. I’ve never felt this way before. I can’t even describe it,” the former Paladin gently kissed Sole’s forehead, “I love you.”

Piper:

“Blue, I really haven’t had much of a romantic past, honestly,” Piper admitted, “I had a fleeting school-girl crush on Travis when I was younger, but nothing came of that. And when I was finally a teenager, I had a brief stint with Scarlett. That only lasted a few weeks though.”

Piper smiled and blushed.

“Our relationship is my first serious one. It’s…it’s special. Thanks for putting up with me, Blue.”

Nick:

“Well. I haven’t had much of a romantic past being a synth and all, but Nick. Nick had Jenny, and from his memories, she was truly something special,” the detective paused, “The day he lost her was the day he changed. Or, rather…I changed. I never thought I’d be able to invest myself in another relationship. The thought of losing another person I loved so dearly was unfathomable.”

Sole shot him a small smile.

“But when I met you, I knew I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. I felt something…extraordinary. Something that I hadn’t felt for anyone besides Jenny.”

Nick gave Sole a peck on the cheek.

“I’m so lucky to have you in my life, dear. I love you.”

Deacon:

“I…I already told you about Barbara, and that’s the extent of it. I really don’t want to tell that story again. It hurts.”

Deacon frowned.

“I know you’re probably not going to believe me and hey, don’t blame ya. But you have my word. It was just Barbara.”

MacCready

“My relationship with Lucy was something special. I…I’m sorry, but I honestly don’t think I’ll ever feel quite the same about anyone else. I mean, I had a child with her and Duncan is my world,” MacCready frowned and looked around nervously, “My love for her is unconditional. But I don’t want you to think that means I don’t love you . Because I do. It’s…it’s just really complicated, and I think you understand that more than anyone else would given your similar circumstances.”

Sole nodded in understanding and MacCready flashed a small smile.

“But hey, even though I still love Lucy and you still love [Nate/Nora], that doesn’t mean that we have to love each other any less, right?” MacCready looked into Sole’s eyes and pulled them in for a passionate kiss.

“I love you so much, beautiful.”

Hancock

“Are you sure you wanna know all that? Unless you’re planning on sitting here all day and hearing about some crazy-ass, drug induced flings,” Hancock chuckled, “What can I say? The guys and gals can’t get enough of this handsome ghoul.”

Sole raised an eyebrow and Hancock smirked. He leaned in, brushing his lips against Sole’s ear.

“But those don’t matter now, right,” he whispered, “Cuz I’ve got you, gorgeous.”

Curie:

“I ‘ave not ‘ad much of a romantic past,” Curie stated, “Eet was quite…deeficult ‘aving a relationship as a Ms. Nanny. But een zis new body, zere ees ztill zo much I am learning. I love being with you, my love. Eet makes me feel warm. And ‘appy!”

Sole beamed as Curie excitedly continued.

“I zink my vavorite eenteraction ees ‘ugging, but I alzo like kissing too. And ah…” Curie blushed, “…Ze naughty ztuff as well.”

[hiidarll]

finally

akhirnya selesai sudah pake seragam, there's so much stories behind, and it's all about my journey as a student. akhir tahun sekolah gua harus pindah, jujur bukan sesuatu yg baru bgt buat gua karena gua emang udah punya pengalaman pindah² sekolah sebelumnya, dan ini bukan kali pertama gua harus adaptasi sm lingkungan diakhir tahun sekolah gua. klo dipikir gua pindah 5 tahun sekali dan pindahnya selalu tepat senior year gua. banyak struggle jd siswa pindahan, mungkin kalo pindahnya masih ke daerah yg ga beda jauh bakal lebih mudah buat adaptasi karena standar lingkungannya juga ga akan jauh berbeda. struggle terberat yang gua alamin waktu gua masih kelas 6 sd saat itu gua masih di depok dan harus pindah ke purbalingga (jateng) yg mana gua harus ttp bersosialisasi dan ttp harus fokus sm ujian nasional. itu berat bgt, jujur berat buat yaya umur 12th. yg diawal gua harus lawan penolakan gua buat pindah, trs harus adapt sm lingkungannya, karakter org disana, cultures, bahasa (ini sih yg menghambat bgt walaupun mereka klo ngomong ke gua pake bhs indo tp mereka klo ngobrol ke sesamanya make bahasanya sendiri gt, kan gua yg tdnya mau excited sksd jd gbs ya*sad) yaa bayangin aja dr depok ke jateng blm lg ujian sekolah ada mapel bahasa jawa, gua harus belajar aksara, tata krama jawa, ashhh killin me inside bgt pokoknya. alesan kenapa harus ke purbalingga waktu itu karena keluarga gua punya rencana buat pindah ke jogja tapi mereka siap pindah ditahun-tahun gua masuk smp, gua sempet nanya "kenapa kaka ga selesein sekolah di depok aja,lagian juga papa mama masih disana, kenapa ga nanti aja pindahnya bareng² lgsg ke jogja(?) kenapa harus aku duluan dan sendiri pindah ke purbalingga", trs mama jelasin yg intinya gua dipindahin duluan karena purbalingga jauh lebih deket buat urus surat² kelulusan, dari pada nanti harus bolak balik jogja-depok buat cap tigajari dll kan lebih deket ke purbalingga, lagian disana ada mbah uti juga katanya. kebayangkan dr awal gua tau abis selesai SD di jateng, SMP gua harus pindah lg ke jogja. ditambah lg sebelum gua pindah ke jateng pp bilang gini "nanti belajar yang rajin biar hasil UNnya bagus, karna nanti mau cari SMP dijogja yg notabenenya kota pelajar" bocah umur 12 tahun dicekokin begitu gmn ga pusing, dlm otak gua waktu itu klo gua ga bisa dpt NEM bagus gua ga dpt sekolah thats it. intinya pressure bgt klo gua harus fokus nyiapin UN doang tanpa gua tau lingkungan saat itu nerima gua atau engga, karna gua dulu anaknya aktif bgt jd suka emosi sendiri klo tbtb gua diem aja. dan gua juga butuh temen yg siap ngajarin gua bhs jawa buat prepare US. semuanyaa lewat gitu aja hasil un gua yaaa lumayann...hmmm

akhirnya gua pun pindah ke jogja kumpul lg sm keluarga andd thankfully temen² disana komunikasinya make indo semua walaupun ternyata gua tau bahasa jawanya beda lg and i'm still learning bahasa jawaa i mean another bahasa jawa*sad/ semua aman damai tentram, di SMP gua ketemu org-org baik, seru juga pokoknya lancar bgt gua ngelewatin masa SMP. sampe juga waktu gua harus cari SMA, ini juga masa² berat gua omg! klo inget masi sedih campur aduk bgt, jadi tahun angkatan gua banyak rules baru dr mentri pend. dimana ada sistem zonasi gitu yg intinya lu cuma dapet kuota bangku sekolah didaerah rumah lu dan itu ditentuin dr alamat KK, DAN TAU GA SI ALAMAT KK KU WAKTU ITU MASI DI DEPOK:) hari pertama pendaftaran gua masukin token dr sekolah, nama gua ga muncul bayangin ga ada nama gua woy:') ngerti ga si rasanya org org pd panik namanya kegeser, sedangkan nama gua malah ga ada bgt, gaib coy*sedih/ hari kedua papa urus ke dinas kab. dan ga ada hasilnya mereka bilang gua harus cari sekolah yg siap bangku kosong karena mau gimana pun nama gua tu jd cadangan klo misal disekolah itu kuotanya ga memenuhi kapasitas barulah nama gua nongol:')*kejam/ giveup lah kan akhirnya di hari kedua itu ortu gua mulai mencari boarding school *bete/ bener" udh daftar online bgt tinggal test. besok paginya hari jumat (it's mean hari ketiga ppdb lebi tepatnya hari terakhir pengumuman dan gua inget bgt,lg puasa) gua dpt whatsapp dr najla dan dia bilang "bunda abis dr rumah tetangga nanyain masalah lu kebetulan dia org dinas prov katanya lu urusnya lgsg ke pusat aja, tp urus buruan soalnya hari ini tutup jam 2an" asdfghjkl *anjir99X gua kaget bgt seneng edan parah, lgsg gua bilang papa dan mereka mau lgsg urus, detik detik terakhir aja masih menegangkan dimana surat rekomendasi pindah mama harus dittd sm direktur mana tu org lg rapat ntah dmn dan baru kelar jam 12 siang, akhirnya abis dhzuhur mereka lgsg otw dinas lagi lagi lucky me bgt ga macet, sampe sana ga ngantri jam set3 gua dpt whatsapp dr mama isinya token gueeeee akhirnyaaaa sorry bgt i think it's so emotional for me jd masi berasa bgt ampe skrg, itu token yg masukin gua ke kategori kuota khusus, biasanya yg pake anak² pindahan karna ikut tugas ortu gitu, memang kuotanya cuma 5% disetiap sekolah tapi ya gapapa la karna gua bersaing sm org" yg make jalur itu aja, beda sama jalur sktm yg bersaing luas sm jalur zonasi 1, hikss T_T tp karna waktu pengumuman udh mepet ga mikir panjang lgsg aja masukin ke SMA yg masuk zonasi rumah gua waktu itu, diotak gua waktu itu nama gua ada aja udh bersyukur bgt sekolah mana aja yg penting nama gua ada anjg, dan cuma nunggu 2 setengah jam nama gua stuck ga bergerak kebawah sampe pengumuman selesai hahahaahaha drama bgt pokonya. hari² di SMA berjalan dgn lancar disana gua ketemu temen baru dan happy bgt ntah kenapa pas gua masuk SMA jd ga seheboh waktu SMP, gua ngerasa ga ada tenaga aja buat teriak teriak ngakak kenceng kek jaman SMP

sampe akhirnya naik kelas 11, dan kelas gua diacak, ada beberapa tmn lama yg sekelas lg ada juga tmn tmn baru. sedih sih karna gua udh nyaman bgt sm tmn² kls 10 tapi gapapa jugaa kok keacak karna seneng juga kenal org baru. pas ujian tengah semester ada berita kita harus karantina karna covid dan waktu itu ujian pun ikutan daring. sampe UKK pun kita masih daring. kenaikan kelas 12 keluarga gua decided untuk pindah ke padang dan yaudah lagi² adaptasi sama lingkungannya, culture, bahasa (ofc) dan fokus buat SBMPTN hikss sekarang selesai sudah, lumayan laa jd punya seragam banyak, satu rapor 2 sekolah hihihi, itu aja sih kayanya perjalanan sekolah idup gua, ga seru² bgt tp cukup buat naik turun hiksss:(

dah deh gitu ajaaa wkwkwk, bye.

[shaekingshitup]

Disclosure

This is my submission to the Quarantine Writing Challenge Hosted by myself & @chaneajoyyy​

Fandom: Black Lightning AU

Pairing: Anissa “Thunder” Pierce x Grace Kim

No Warnings. A/N at the bottom. 

February 03, 2004

Anissa was in her element. Granted, she wasn’t the best at four square; but right now she’d found a groove. Everyone else on the court saw it and they were doing all they could to break her streak. No matter who had the ball last, it always ended up volleying right back into her square. She was too focused to worry about that. At this rate she’d be the talk of the school by the end of lunch time. Or at the very least, she’d be the talk of her classroom...for a few minutes before they settled back in. But who cared?! She was queen of the moment and as a matter of fact she was

“Hey Nissa!” she heard from the other side of the playground near the water fountain. She glanced in that direction to see Sam waving at her. She was next to a short Asian girl who Anissa didn’t recognize. 

“GOT HER!” yelled Chris as he skimmied the ball straight into her square. 

“Huh?” Anissa questioned re-setting her eyes on the game. She dove low to hit the ball back but she couldn’t get enough bounce in it for it to count when she tried to send it to another kid.

“You’re out!” Chris yelled. Anissa smacked her dirt slicked hand to her forward and groaned. Her reign was over and at the hands of that stupid Star Wars nerd. I guess that was fourth grade for ya. She stalked off the court towards the water fountains. Instead of greeting her friends, she gulped down as much cloudy water that her stomach would stand. Standing upright, she used the back of her hand to wipe her mouth and approached Sam who was now accompanied by Jaz, Marissa and the unfamiliar Asian girl. 

“SAM! Did you see me playing four square?!” She asked throwing up her arms. Before the other girl could respond she went on, “ I was on a roll! How could you?”

“I’m sorry,” Sam shyly responded to the ground. “I just wanted to introduce you to Grace. Grace this is Anissa. Anissa, Grace. She just moved here from Korea.  Anissa put aside her stank attitude momentarily to great the other girl. 

“Hi Grace.” she said giving a weak smile to other girl. 

“Hi.” smiled back the other girl. 

“Are you in fourth grade too? Whose class are you in?” Grace nodded her head and then she started speaking to Anissa. The girl was differently speaking English. But, Anissa was thoroughly confused. She’d never spoken to anyone with an accent like that. 

Oh my God. What is she saying? I have no idea what’s going on. Should I just nod and smile or should I just say forget it. 

There was a pause. It was Anissa’s turn to speak.

".. I'm sorry. Can you repeat that?"

Anissa tried to listen more intently but processing this girl speaking was like hitting all of the buttons on the keyboard at once and expecting a novel to be written. 

Smile and nod. Just smile and nod 

"Uh huh" Anissa threw in.

Ooooo that was good. Smile, nod "uh huh" and you're good.

There was silence and Anissa realized it was her turn to speak again.

"YEAH. YEAH. THAT'S COOL!" "Hey I promised Kiana that I would help her.. over there.. on the other side of the playground. Bye!" Anissa dashed away just as the bell rang and summoned her back to class. 

Great! Now you ring?!

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

PRESENT DAY

"Baabe! Have you seen my wedges?" Grace called out into the apartment. 

"Baaaaabe!" She yelled again. Getting nothing in return, she ventured upstairs to the bedroom. There she found Anissa staring at her laptop with her Beats Studio 3 headphones at full volume. Grace could hear the rnb all the way from the entrance of the door. 

She leaned against the door frame and crossed her arms. Anissa looked up and saw her sexy and pouty girlfriend looking back at her. She slid the headphones from her ears.

"Wassup?" She asked with a sheepish grin. Grace rolled her eyes. 

"My wedges" Grace said trying not to become agitated. This interview was important to her and she didn't want to be late or pissed when she arrived. 

"They're in your bag in the backseat of the Honda. If you wear those wedges all the way to L.A. you will not be happy and I know how much this means to you. Wear the slippers to the car and change before the meeting."

"That's actually not a bad idea," Grace mumbled. Anissa rolled her eyes as she climbed out of bed. 

"I have those sometimes," she joked back. She pulled Grace's barely five foot body into her arms. "Breathe, Grace. Match me."

Anissa inhaled for two counts, held it for an additional two and exhaled for two more before she started again. They did this three times until she could feel the stress leave her body.

"Okay go ahead and go." Anissa said smacking Grace’s butt to get her moving.

"Woww when I met you you couldn't even understand me. Now look at you! I'd say I trained you well," Grace laughed. 

"IT WAS THE FOURTH GRADE. LET IT GO GRACE!  When we go to Korea at the end of the year, you'll see how hard it will be for people there to understand me and you're gonna eat your words," Anissa exhaled through her nose loudly and walked Grace back down the stairs towards the front door.

"Korean people are nice. They would never do that!" Grace replied. 

"Last time I checked Korean people were human just like everybody else girl. We'll find out in six months. Now go!" Anissa handed Grace her purse and pushed her out the front door.

"Fine. I'm going. I'm going." Grace righted her self and took one more deep breath before she turned to head for the garage.

"Excuse you! I have to wish you good luck first," Anissa declared causing Grace to turn in her slippers again. Anissa kissed her on the forehead. 

"Good luck!" She whispered. 

"Thanks babe" Grace said heading to the garage. When she got in her car she placed her purse in the passenger seat and double checked that her wedges were indeed in the backseat. There she found Anissa's gym bag. 

Grace pulled it into her lap and confirmed that her wedges were in there. So was a bottle of water, her laptop, some of her favorite snacks, a pair of sunglasses and a note.

"Grace,

I know for a fact that you're going to kill this job interview. This is one small step which you've already conquered. Remember to breathe and just be yourself. The hard work you've done thus far proves you're more than capable of this. To make sure your eyes stay on the road, I've included my favorite pair of sunglasses to see you in. I packed some sweets in here because you're my sugar. But don't worry there's some salty stuff in here tooo because you can throw shade with the rest of em! Above all else, I give you my love. Remember who you are G. 

See you soon ❤

-Nis

P.S: I made you a playlist of some of my fav rnb women killin it to get ya motivated. It's called "By the Grace". GET INSPIRED BABY!"

Grace laughed as she brought up the playlist on her phone. She really did have the most thoughtful girlfriend ever.

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

A/N: SO, this was actually a request combined with the show I most recently binged. My best friend and I literally met back in 2004 when she moved from Vietnam and I really couldn’t understand what she was saying. I would legit act as I wrote Anissa anytime I saw her. Fast forward to today, we are absolutely not dating nor do we live together. But, a lot of people often think we are because of how close we are. When I was watching Black Lightning with my mom and this scene came on

my mom deadass looked from the screen to me and then back to the screen. Although she’s not allowed to ask me anymore, I already knew what that look was about and it just made me laugh my ass off. I told my bestie about it and now for shits and giggles sometimes I will just call her Grace. So, when I saw this #ThunderGrace image for the ILLustration options, I thought this may be fun to write. Hopefully someone likes it. (:

[madpanda75]

Sonny for “You have something in your hair, umm… Do you want me to get it out?” Pretty please!!

Thank you so much for your request! I’m so sorry it took me forever to get out. I hope you like this! I enjoyed writing it ❤️

I apologize to anyone who is blonde and named Karen. Also it is my personal opinion that our germaphobe string bean has named his truck and carries various medications with him.

“Always Been You”

Sonny paced in front you with a serious expression on his face, his crystal blue gaze never leaving yours. You wondered if this was what it felt like when a criminal was being interrogated. Only rather than confessing where you hid the body, the lanky handsome detective was asking you practice questions for your sergeant’s exam.

You closed your eyes in concentration, searching your brain for the correct answer. “Is it……D,” you hesitantly said. “Such a procedure might involve liability for the department in the event persons re-occupying the space are injured.”  

Your partner frowned and shook his head. You groaned in frustration, throwing your head back on the sofa. “I’m wrong, aren’t I? Why did I even tell Liv I was going to take the test. What the hell was I thinking? I can’t be a sergeant.”

A smile slowly spread across Sonny’s face. “Actually you’re right. I just like messin’ with ya’,” he teased with a wink.

“Sonny Carisi, I’m going to murder you!” You growled, hurling a pillow at his face.

He laughed and sat down next to you on the couch. “Ya’ know I think killin’ a fellow officer may not be the best idea a week before the exam. Just sayin’, it probably won’t bode well with NYPD.”

“Unless they don’t find the body,” you replied in a sing song voice. It was Friday night and you had been studying for hours with Sonny in his apartment. Taking the exam book from his hand, you stared down at the questions, all the words seemed to jumble together. At this point your brain was fried. You were even mumbling penal codes in your sleep. You tossed the book aside, leaning your head on your partner’s shoulder. “I don’t know about you, but I could use a break. Wanna get some ice cream and tequila?”

Sonny chuckled. “Ice cream, yes but let’s save the tequila for after you take the test.” He booped your nose with his index finger making you smile.

“Sounds like a plan. As long as I get sprinkles.” You stood up and stretched before moving to grab your coat.

“Sprinkles is a given,” he replied, following you to the door. “Just a long as you don’t get a peanut butter sundae. I don’t know how you can stomach those things. Grosses me out,” he cringed.

“You’re so weird,” you snorted a laugh and helped straighten his coat collar when Sonny’s cell began to buzz in his pocket. As he took out his phone, you could see the name “Karen” flash on the screen along with a picture of the blonde beauty who had the fakest smile known to man.

“Hold on a sec,” he mumbled to you before answering the phone. “Hey doll!” You internally rolled your eyes, listening to Sonny talk to his girlfriend. “Nah, I’m not busy. I was just helping Y/N study for her exam.”

You could overhear Karen’s voice dripping with disdain at the sound of your name. To say that there was animosity between you both was putting it mildly. You and Karen did not get along. You thought she was selfish and demanding. The world revolved around her. When Karen said jump, she expected Sonny to ask, how high. Based on the interactions you had witnessed, it was obvious she didn’t care about him. To her he was just a shiny new toy, one that she would kick to the curb as soon as she saw a sleeker model that she deemed worthy of her time. You knew if she dumped Sonny, you would be the one to pick up the pieces of your partner’s broken heart.

In addition to your contempt, there was also a green eyed monster lurking within. As much you hated to admit it, you were jealous of Karen. Sonny Carisi had been your partner since your first day at SVU. He took you under his wing, showing you the ropes and how the squad operated. It wasn’t too long ago when he was the new guy himself, he knew what it felt like to be in that position. As your partnership grew, so did your friendship. The two of you were inseparable, leaning on each other for support. When Sonny was nearly killed by Tom Cole, it was you that persuaded him to go to therapy. Likewise, when the grandmother who raised you suffered a massive stroke, Sonny was with you everyday in the hospital.

Over the years, your bond became stronger. You cherished your relationship with Sonny. You couldn’t imagine life without him. He had somehow stolen your heart. If only he would look at you the way he looked at Karen. Why couldn’t he see that the one person who loved him more than anything was standing right in front of him.

“Yeah, I’ll be right there. Give me 10 minutes.” Sonny hung up the phone, gifting you a sheepish look.

You crossed your arms, quirking an eyebrow at the detective. “Let me take a wild guess. Our study session is over.”

Sonny sighed. “I’m sorry. Karen needs me to pick her up. Her and her girlfriends got invited to an after hours club by this bartender.”

“Isn’t that what Ubers or taxis are for?” You asked, walking out of his apartment in a huff.

Sonny threw his hands up in the air, following you to the elevator. “C’mon, don’t be like that. Ya’ know how hard it is to get an Uber on a Friday night.”

“I know,” you mumbled, watching the numbers drop as the elevator continued its descent. You glanced sideways at him. “I just think you deserve better.”

He locked eyes with you and for a split second a look of sadness flashed across his face. It broke your heart. “You’re a good guy, Sonny.” You reached up and playfully ruffled his hair.

“Hey! Not the hair!” Sonny smiled and pulled you into a tight hug. “Thanks for looking out for me,” he softly said, kissing the crown of your head. All too soon, the elevator dinged announcing its arrival to the main floor.

After parting ways with Sonny, you stopped by the bodega on your street to pick up a pint of ice cream, figuring Ben and Jerry could help you study that night. You had made it all the way home when you realized you had forgotten your exam book back at Sonny’s place. Not wanting to wait until tomorrow to get your book back, you decided to head back out to his apartment, hoping he would be home by the time you got there.

Luckily just as you arrived, someone was entering his building allowing you to piggyback in. As you walked down the hall, you heard muffled sounds of shouting coming from Sonny’s door. You stood there frozen, knowing that you should leave rather than eavesdrop on your friend, but temptation got the better of you.

“I can’t believe you showed up with that truck, Sonny! What were you thinking?” Karen shouted. You clicked your tongue in disapproval. Karen hated Sonny’s truck, which you had affectionately nicknamed, Bubba.

“I thought I was going to go pick up my girlfriend. Instead I see ya’ practically giving the bartender a lap dance!” Sonny retorted, his Staten Island accent thicker with his rage.

“Give me a break!” Karen scoffed. “The bartender was just being friendly. I’ve known him since high school.”

“Friendly?! The guy was being smothered by your tits. That’s your idea of friendly?!” Sonny screamed. You could envision how he must have looked, a few strands of his perfectly gelled hair flopping onto his forehead, his sleeves rolled up, face red with a protruding vein throbbing in his neck.

“What about you and Y/N!?” Your ears perked up when you heard Karen mention your name.

Your jaw dropped. “Oh my God!” You silently mouthed, pressing your ear to the door.

“You leave her out of this,” Sonny growled. “She has nothing to do with this.”

“Oh yeah!? You don’t think I see how you look at her or how she looks at you? She’s all you ever talk about! It’s always, “Y/N this” and “Y/N that.” I can only imagine what you guys do during all those late night study sessions! You love her, not me! Just admit it!”

“That’s not fair! I’ve never-,” Sonny stammered.

“Save it, Sonny!” Karen interrupted. “You know what! I’m outta here! We’re done!” She abruptly opened the door to find you on the other side, practically stumbling into her arms. You were stunned by what you had just heard, your feet rooted to the spot on the floor. “He’s all yours!” She sneered, looking back at Sonny who was standing in the foyer. She pushed past you and walked away, leaving you and your partner to stand there in awkward silence.

Sonny placed his hands on his hips, his nostrils flaring, lips pursed, waiting for you to provide a reasonable explanation as to why you were there.

You shuffled your feet, looking anywhere but at the man in front of you. “Ummm….Half Baked?” You held up the now melted pint of ice cream, offering the dessert to your friend. In your opinion, ice cream seemed to resolve most matters in life, at least in yours it did, so it seemed like an appropriate albeit awkward gesture.

“What are ya’ doin’ here?” Sonny softly asked.

“I forgot my book,” you mumbled, playing with the hair tie around your wrist. He motioned for you to come inside, grabbing the exam book from the coffee table and handing it over to you.

“Thanks,” you held the book tight to your chest, completely clueless as to what to say to your best friend.

He crossed his arms, tilting his head as he looked you over. “So, how much of the fight did you hear?”

You shrugged your shoulders. “Maybe the last minute or two. Just a snippet really. I barely heard anything.”

Sonny arched his brow, he could always tell when you were lying. “Ok, I heard everything,” you confessed. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to overhear your fight, it just happened. Then I heard Karen say my name and I just didn’t know what to do so I stood there.” Standing in front of him, you could feel your cheeks getting redder by the minute. You threw your arms in the air, exasperated with the way the entire evening turned out. ��I just wanted to study and eat some ice cream! I didn’t mean for all this drama to happen!”

Your partner squeezed his eyes shut, pinching the bridge of his nose, waiting a long moment before answering. “I think maybe you should leave, Y/N.”

You bit your lip, feeling a lump form in your throat as you nodded your head and slowly made your way to the door. You held it together until you got home, unable to fight your tears anymore. In the span of a few hours, you had managed to lose your best friend, unsure if you would ever get him back.

In the blink of an eye, Monday had arrived. You spent the weekend eating one too many pints of Ben and Jerry’s and shedding countless tears. Fin watched as you walked into the precinct, dressed in a drab sweater and jeans, nursing a large coffee, your hair unruly, eyes puffy and red.

“Rough weekend?”

“Something like that,” you mumbled, plopping down at your desk and starting up your laptop.

Fin got up, moving to sit at the edge of your desk. “Where’s your partner? Normally you two get here around the same time.”

As if on cue, Sonny walked in. The detective lacked the usual spring in his step. He looked just as rough as you with dark bags under his eyes and scruff on his chin. “Mornin’,” he grumbled.

“Damn, Sonny. You look worse than Y/N. What the hell did you all do this weekend.” Fin’s eyes bounced between you and your partner. “Anything you guys wanna tell me?”

You and Sonny glanced at each other before you focused on your laptop screen. “No,” you softly said.

The sergeant sighed and shook his head. “Whatever, it’s your business.” He patted you on the shoulder as he walked away. “I’ve got good news and bad news. Noah has the chicken pox so Liv is going to be out for a few days.”

“So what’s the good news?” Sonny asked.

He turned around, a smirk firmly planted on his face. “I’m in charge.”

Work served as a welcome distraction from your personal life. You spent most of the day in the basement records room, sifting through cold case files you believed were linked to a string of recent rapes and murders. Although the basement was damp and dingy, you would rather be there than feet away from Sonny.

“This place is a mess,” you mumbled, getting on your hands and knees to get the last box which had been carelessly shoved on the back corner of a bottom shelf. You lugged the heavy box back to the makeshift work space you created, sneezing and sniffling, the mildew-laden basement affecting your allergies. When it came to your job, you threw yourself into your work, dedicating countless hours to every case, determined to seek justice and allow the voices of the victims to be heard.

Sonny walked downstairs, to find you elbows deep in a file, muttering to yourself. The night of the fight, Karen had hit the nail right on the head. Sonny did love you. It was as if the blindfold was pulled from his eyes and there you were. You were the one. The person who had captured his heart. Over the weekend, all he could think about was you, wondering if he should confess his feelings. But then there were those nagging fears that kept him up at night. What if you didn’t feel the same way? What if you had moved on?

Sonny cleared his throat to catch your attention but you didn’t respond, completely focused on the police report you were reading.  “Hey,” he called out.

You glanced up from your work to see your partner standing in front of you. “Hey,” you replied before letting out a sneeze and rubbing your watery eyes.

He sat down next to you, pulling out of his pocket some allergy medication. “I figured you’d be down here sneezing and wheezing so I brought you these.”

You softly smiled and took the pills from him. “Thanks.”

Sonny watched as you drank some water to swallow down the medication, glancing around the room, trying to think of what to say. After years of being best friends and partners, the detective suddenly felt shy and nervous in your presence. “So….uh…how’s research coming?” He asked.

You shrugged your shoulders. “Good. I think I may have found the missing link that connects all of our victims.”

A smile tugged at his lips as he studied your appearance, your hair wild and coming loose out of its messy bun, a bit of dirt and dust smudged on your face. “Ya’ have somethin’ in your hair.”

“I do?” You felt around your head, trying to search for the object in question.

“Umm….do ya’ want me to get it out?”

You nodded your head as Sonny helped fish out the pen cap stuck in your hair. “Oh thanks. I was wondering where that had ran off to,” you replied, replacing the cap back on the pen you were using.

He reached into his pocket and handed you his handkerchief. “Ya’ also got some dust or something on your face.”

“Jeez, I’m a mess.” You grabbed a mirror out of your purse and graciously took the handkerchief, wiping your face clean. “Better?” You asked, looking up at Sonny.

“You’re perfect,” he softly said.

You blushed, turning back to your work when he reached for you, gingerly touching your arm.

“Look about Friday night, I-,” Sonny started before you interrupted him.

“Let’s just forget about it.” You waved him off, wanting to put the whole thing behind you.

He shook his head. “I can’t. Karen was right. She was right about everything. It’s you. It’s always been you.”

You stopped, your heart skipping a beat as you turned to face him. “What did you say?”

“I’m in love with you, Y/N. I was just too blind and stupid to see that. You’re the last person I think of before I fall asleep and the first person I want to see every mornin’. You’re everything to me.”

You let out a shaky breath, your eyes glossy with tears. “Do you have any idea how long I’ve waited to hear you say that?”

Sonny sighed and smiled brightly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Really?”

“Yes! Sonny, I’ve been in love with you for years. You’re all I ever wanted. I just wish I would’ve said something sooner, but I was too scared.” You sniffled, looking down at your hands.

“Ya’ don’t have to be scared with me, doll.” He reached out and cupped your face. “Please, tell me I still have a chance with you.”

“Yes,” you softly said.

Stroking your cheek with his thumb, he moved his hand behind your neck, bringing you closer to him. His eyes glanced down at your mouth before looking back up to meet your gaze, silently pleading for permission to kiss you.

“Yes,” you repeated in a barely audible whisper, leaning forward. Your faces were so close, you could feel his hot breath on your skin.

The minute your lips met, the floodgates opened, years of pent up sexual tension finally being released. You sighed into the kiss, feeling Sonny’s tongue dart into your mouth, mingling with your own. Your lips began to fervently move against his, desperate to taste him, encouraging him.

Sonny groaned and tugged you onto his lap as his hands roamed your body, grabbing fistfuls of your flesh. He was overwhelmed, not knowing what part of you he wanted to touch first, all he knew in that moment was that he wanted you, all of you. His lips laid kisses across your cheek, until they found purchase on your pulse point.

“Oh Sonny,” you whimpered, grinding down against his clothed crotch. You turned your head to capture his mouth once more. Threading your fingers in his hair, you deepened the kiss, pulling him even closer to you when a familiar voice pierced the air.

“Y/L/N?” Amanda called out causing you both to jump.

“Yeah?” You timidly responded, panting hard from your brief makeout session.

“Is Carisi down there?”

“I’m here! I was just…uh…helping Y/N,” Sonny chimed in breathlessly.

“Well when y’all finish Fin needs you up here. Looks like our perp is willing to talk.”

“Yeah, I’ll be right there,” he said with a smirk, staring at you like a hungry wolf does when they’re about to pounce on an innocent lamb. “Ya’ know, we have a problem.”

You nervously bit your lip. “What’s that?”

Sonny leaned forward, his lips ghosting over yours. “Well now that I’ve kissed you. I can’t seem to stop,” he purred.

“So don’t stop,” you whispered, closing the gap between you both and kissing him hard, playfully nipping at his bottom lip. After a couple more quick kisses, you grabbed your case files and followed him upstairs.

Amanda sat at her desk, doing a double take as you and Sonny entered the bullpen, “Something wrong, Rollins?” He asked, cocking his hip to the side.

She coughed, trying to cover up a laugh. “Nope! Everything’s fine. Fin was asking for you.”

Just then the sergeant walked out of one of the interrogation rooms, raising his eyebrows in surprise when he saw Sonny. “Ya’ know Carisi, that lipstick you’re sporting really doesn’t bring out the blue in your eyes. Why don’t you wash off your indiscretions and go interview our perp.”

You looked at your partner and gasped when you saw your berry lipstick smudged on his lips and chin. He turned beet red, trying to wipe the offending stains with his hand. “I’ll….uhhh..be right back,” he mumbled, making a beeline to the bathroom.

Biting your lip, you watched him walk away, paying close attention to his cute butt. “Damn, you could bounce a quarter off that ass.”  

Amanda nearly spit out her water, laughing so hard she snorted while Fin gave you a disapproving look. “Did I say that out loud?” You cringed.

Fin nodded his head. “Eyes forward, young lady,” he reprimanded. “Don’t you have reports to get done?”

You saluted him and sat at your desk. “Yes sir. All work and no play.”

A few minutes later Sonny came back, his face freshly scrubbed and clean. He walked past your desk, catching your eye and winking at you as he walked into the interrogation room. You smiled, giggling a bit, your cheeks turning bright pink.

Fin witnessed your interaction and laughed to himself, shaking his head, “Man, I hate being in charge,” he muttered to himself. “It’s like babysitting a bunch of horny teenagers.”

@thatesparzacrush @southern-magnolia @glimmerglittergirl @eclecticminded @sweetcannolicarisi @obfuscateyummy @katmstanton @beltzboys2015-blog @letty-o @sonnysdoll @lyssa1385 @sweetsummertime99 @burningsorr0ws @gibbs274 @izzythefanfreak @riodallas @babypink224221 @amirightcounsellor @livxrafa @delia26

[askjaaryl]

Episode #10: Brave New World

Paul spends some much-needed time with Maggie and Sasha as Glenn and Daryl go scouting for a new location for the New Frontier group from Richmond. A meeting of the communities are held, resulting in some tension between Paul and Rick. Paul realizes that he’s a parent.

This is the start of season 2 of this blog.

“Look,” Paul sighed, lying on the couch in Maggie’s office, “I’m sorry for not asking you first...but their community is in shambles,” he explained, “Their walls were down. We put temporary ones up, but they won’t hold forever. And these...Free Men...they have provisions, I can tell.”

“No,” Maggie sighed, leaning on her desk, “You were right to do what you did. It might take some rationing for a while ‘til everyone gets used to taking on another community to supply, but it was the right thing to do,” she explained, “I’ve already sent for the leaders of the other communities, so we can talk about this.”

“It’s not gonna be pretty,” Sasha added, looking out the window, “We haven’t had to ration in a while. People are going to get angry.”

“Let ‘em be,” Maggie said simply, “Ain’t the worst we’ve been through,” she said, finishing what she was writing before putting her notebook down. She walked over and flopped beside Paul, “Okay, spill.”

“Spill what?” Paul raised an eyebrow, scooting over a little to give her room.

“How’s it going with your boyfriends?” Maggie asked.

“Boy talk while we’re having a strategy meeting?” Paul snorted.

“Oh, definitely,” Sasha said, sitting on his other side and making him scoot over as well, “Your happiness is the second highest priority of our meetings...first is keeping everyone alive.”

Paul rolled his eyes and looked down, biting his lip to conceal a smile, “It’s going really well,” he looked up at the ceiling, avoiding their waiting eyes, “We say we love each other all the time now.”

“Oh my god,” Maggie pulled him into a tight hug, laughing, “I knew it. I knew you could be happy,” she looked at Sasha, “Look at this smile on him!”

“It’s a good smile,” Sasha agreed.

Paul rolled his eyes, shoving his friend off of him, “Okay, okay,” he said quickly and sighed, “One worry though.”

“Isn’t there always?” Sasha sighed.

“Gracie,” Paul said, ignoring her comment, “Gracie’s my worry.”

“Why?” Maggie asked, “Paul, she loves you. When you come to pick her up from playing with Hershel, she’s the happiest. She loves getting to walk home with you. She always says in the proudest voice ‘Paul is walking me home from school today!’!” she laughed.

Paul sighed, “Yeah...I’m okay being Paul to her. I have no idea how to be a father though,” he put his head back, “My father barely ever interacted with me...the foster homes I was in never had the best and even the one I was in that was good...I didn’t pay much attention to him,” he pursed his lips, “What if she comes to me with genuine advice and I don’t have the answer?”

“Paul, there ain’t no book to parenting...well, there are...but most of them are garbage,” Maggie told him, “Hell, half the time Glenn and I have no idea what the hell we’re doin’ and both our parents were great.”

“You have her best interest at heart, right?” Sasha asked.

“Well, yeah,” Paul sighed, “I love her.”

“So there,” Sasha said simply, “You have the right grounds to be a parent.”

“It’s not that simple,” Paul groaned.

“Yes, it is,” Sasha said, “Besides, I’m pretty sure Daryl doesn’t know how to do laundry...so you’re already a step ahead of him on that.”

Paul laughed, putting his head back, “He can, he just chooses not to.”

“Hey, are you wearing one of his shirts?” Maggie asked, looking at him with a fond smile on her face, “That’s way too big for you.”

“Aaron’s actually,” Paul said, rolling the sleeves up, “Daryl didn’t do the laundry.”

Paul was met with two “aw”s and more hugs from his friends.

“We’ll get a filter for all that water,” Daryl said, kneeling down by the docks, “Then we’ll get the herd crew out here to start clearin’ them buildings.”

“Agreed,” Glenn said, looking up at the three large buildings, “It’ll be more than enough for them.”

“Place used to be a park,” Daryl said, hitting the sign that said Montgomery Park, “Probably gonna just be office buildings in there. Hopefully that means people cleared out ta go home before the outbreak.”

“Hopefully,” Glenn agreed, “This place is just down the road from Alexandria,” he said, looking at the map, “This’ll be great if they need anything starting out,” he said, “Hey, we should stop by and say hi to Rick and the others. We haven’t seen him in a while.”

“Nah,” Daryl said simply, “Gotta get the fences up around here then get back to Hilltop.”

Glenn sighed, following him, “Daryl, you can’t avoid Alexandria forever. Your brother lives there. Hell, I’ve been there since everything. It’s been years.”

Daryl just grunted, continuing to work on the temporary fence around the courtyard. They’d already cleared out a few straggling walkers and now they wanted to keep more from getting in.

“Daryl-” Glenn started.

Daryl whipped around and shoved him a little, “I ain’t got a mirror, but ya know what he did to you!” he snapped at him, “You can’t see outta that eye now ‘cause of him. Abe’s dead ‘cause of him,” he yelled and pointed to the side of his head, “Guy drove me half insane...prolly more,” he snorted, “Then the guy cuts of some lady’s head and Rick gives ‘im an outpost of ‘is own with no supervision,” he laughed bitterly before going back to the fence.

Glenn sighed, “Look, I know it’s not fair...but we just need to accept it.”

“Nah,” Daryl said simply before stopping, not looking up at him, “I love Rick. He’s my brother...ain’t gonna act like I ain’t happy to see ‘im when he comes around...but doesn’t make me any less mad.”

“I know,” Glenn said soothingly, putting a hand on his shoulder, “Trust me, I get it, man. But we’ve been through so much...it’s time to move on and be happy.”

Daryl just grunted again and went silent for a moment before speaking up again, “Sorry for shovin’ ya.”

“No problem,” Glenn said, an amused smile on his face, “And you do seem happy, by the way...with Jesus and Aaron.”

Daryl finished tying what he was doing before sighing, ignoring his comment, “‘Kay, we should get back.”

Glenn raised an eyebrow.

Daryl huffed, “Yes, m’happy, okay? Can we go now?”

“Yes,” Glenn said, obviously satisfied with himself.

Paul sat on the steps with Aaron, leaning on him slightly. Neither of them really minded the PDA. It earned them a few odd looks now and again, but they’d been slowly working on subtly letting their community know of their relationship now.

Paul put his head on his shoulder, watching Gracie play with Hershel, smiling slightly at his daughter and his godson. He pressed his face against Aaron’s shoulder to hide his wider smile when he thought of Gracie as his daughter.

“What?” Aaron asked with a laugh, leaning down to see his face, “What’s going on in that head of yours?”

“Just how much I love you all,” Paul said, leaning up and pecking him on the lips.

The gates opened suddenly and Rick’s truck drove in.

“Great,” Paul huffed, hiding his face in Aaron’s shoulder for another minute before jumping up when Maggie walked out as well.

Aaron got up as well, walking over with them and Sasha.

“Thanks for comin’,” Maggie said, pulling Rick into a hug, then Michonne. She kneeled down to Judith, “How’s it goin’, sweetheart?”

“Fine,” Judith said simply before hugging her neck. She didn’t remember Maggie very much, but she knew Rick called her her aunt and said that she helped her mom give birth to her. She only ever really saw her at holidays or meetings like this because Maggie and her husband, Glenn, didn’t come to Alexandria often.

Maggie hugged her back, smiling.

“Dad!” Carl called, running over from where he’d been working with Henry. He took the apron off before pulling him into a tight hug.

Paul smiled slightly, watching them reunite, as Judith walked over to talk to Hershel and Gracie, obviously bored with the adults around already.

Rick pulled away and his eyes fell on Paul, “Why did ya think it was okay to bring these people in without askin’ all of us first?”

“Because they were struggling,” Paul said simply, “With these Free Men out here, we can’t be too safe. It’ll be better to have our allies closer. You know Javi, we’ve talked about him before.”

“Talked out ‘im, never met ‘im,” Rick grumbled.

“Well, hot damn, been a while since I saw this place,” a familiar voice said.

Paul’s eyes widened and Aaron grabbed his hand immediately, pulling him back to his side as Negan jumped out of the back of the truck.

“What the hell?” Paul demanded.

“I called all the outposts here as well,” Maggie said, “Him included...under supervision,” she explained, “We can’t have people killin’ the New Frontier, so we need to let ‘em know about ‘em in advance...even him.”

“Yeah, it’s great to have our allies close, isn’t it, Rick?” Paul snapped at him.

“Is there somethin’ you wanna say?” Rick demanded.

“Oh, there’s so much I’d love to say to you, Rick Grimes-” Paul started.

“Paul, take a walk,” Maggie said quickly, looking at Aaron, who nodded.

“That one always was a fuckin’ firecracker,” Negan laughed as he walked away.

Paul went to turn back around, but Aaron put his arm around him in a tight grip, continuing to walk them away, behind the trailers.

“You should have let me slit his throat,” Paul said immediately, turning to him once they were alone.

“No,” Aaron said firmly, “I shouldn’t have. That would have just caused problems between our communities, Paul. We...We have to listen to Rick, okay? He’s Daryl’s brother.”

“Daryl’s brother. Not mine,” Paul said quickly, “Imagine if Daryl was here right now...seeing him not even twenty feet from our daughter, Aaron. From Glenn’s son. Do you know how fucked up that is?” he took a shaky breath, “He looked in their general direction and I wanted him dead more than ever before.”

Aaron pulled him into a hug, “It’s just a short meeting to make sure that no one accidentally kills your friends, sweetheart...deep breaths. Then they’ll be gone.”

“I wish he was gone,” Paul grumbled against his chest, “Dead, in the ground.”

Aaron continued to hold him, not saying anything, letting him calm down in his arms.

“If he breaths in the wrong direction, I’ll kill him,” Paul said simply, going back in the direction of Barrington.

“We can tell just by how they were talking that they know there are communities out there,” Paul explained, “They most likely know about ours, given how they were talking. They know about our circle and they don’t like it,” he sighed, “We saw their armory, briefly...they have a lot, but not as much as us. They also have a good number of people, but not as much as us.”

The tension in the room was evident, ever since Cyndie and Beatrice arrived after Ezekiel and Jerry. Cyndie kept looking over to Negan, but Beatrice kept a hand on her arm.

“If they don’t have as much as we do, why are you bringin’ the New Frontier up here?” Negan asked suddenly, “It’s a waste of resources.”

Paul gritted his teeth, “Because they might not have as much as us, but they have more than the Frontier,” he said simply, “They took down their walls. We put up something temporary for them, but it’s not going to last. Who knows when they’ll attack them again?”

The door opened and closed and Glenn and Daryl walked in, quietly taking a seat in the back of the room. Paul felt a pang in his chest when he saw Daryl’s eyes flick from Negan to Rick.

Paul nodded for Maggie and Sasha to take over with their provisional plans before he walked over and sat on the couch, on Daryl’s other side, “I’m sorry, I didn’t think you’d be back this soon.”

“S’fine,” Daryl said simply, grabbing his hand in a tight grip.

“We’re going to ration our resources by a quarter each until everyone can start producing enough to take on another community,” Sasha explained, “Same story as when Oceanside and Sanctuary came back into the fold; fuel, food, and ammo.”

“We can start producing more as soon we get back and get the orders filled,” Dwight explained, just as uncomfortable as everyone else as he stood beside his lieutenant, Laura. Sherry was there too, as a representative of one of the outposts, standing with Amber.

“We were already planning on expanding our crops this season as well and we have more than enough seeds for food,” Maggie added, nodding with him, “Then we’ll get the orders to Eugene for more bullets for them.”

“This isn’t something new, it’s just us taking on more people,” Sasha added, “Keep your communities in check, we’re going to give you all a list of names of everyone in the community as soon as it’s available and getting them their IDs once they’re all set up.”

“The New Frontier is in the council now,” Maggie said seriously, “You know the rules...harm anyone in a community under us, you face the consequences,” she cleared her throat, “Thank you all for coming. If you’re from further out and want to spend the night, we’ll show you to the guest rooms in Barrington. This meeting is adjourned.”

Paul smiled when the meeting ended and Aaron walked over to talk to Daryl. When he was hugging him, he walked over, smiling at Ezekiel, “Hello, your highness.”

“Hello, my friend,” Ezekiel said, pulling him into a tight hug, “You’re well, yes? Watching over my son as he trains with Earl?”

“Always,” Paul smiled, “And you?”

“We’re good, getting things up and running in the Kingdom again,” Ezekiel nodded, “A slow but valiant process!” he announced loudly.

Paul pursed his lips to keep the smile off his face, “Well, if anyone can handle it, it’s you, your highness...and Carol and Jerry, of course.”

“Damn right,” Jerry said, giving him a hard pat on the back.

“Jerry,” Ezekiel scolded before turning back to Paul, “It’s good seeing you, but we must get back before nightfall. I apologize that our reunion is brief,” he said, leaning down, kissing his cheek softly.

“We’ll come and visit soon,” Paul agreed, watching him walk out. He walked back over to Aaron and hid his face in his chest to conceal his laughter.

“Let’s get outta here,” Daryl grumbled, looking to where Rick was still talking with Maggie, Michonne, and Negan. Oceanside and the Sanctuary had immediately made themselves scarce from the room, practically out the door before Maggie said the meeting was done.

“Agreed,” Paul said, giving Negan one last look before he left with his boyfriends.

“I just don’t understand how he could think that was okay-” Paul was saying as they walked down the steps, only to be cut off by Gracie and Judith yelling.

“Shove him again and I’ll-” Gracie started, shoving at Judith who was shoving right back.

“Gracie!” Aaron said quickly, jogging over, “Hey, c’mon...we don’t shove,” he said quickly, pulling her away.

Rick was there suddenly, with Michonne, who pulled a struggling Judith away, Carl mumbling “Judy, what the hell?” as they did.

“She shoved Hershel!” Gracie yelled over Aaron’s shoulder, “Asshole!”

“Hey!” Aaron said quickly, “Language, Gracie.”

Paul quickly followed Aaron back to the trailer, letting Daryl talk to Rick as he did.

“Go to your room, timeout,” Aaron said quickly, pointing in the direction of Gracie’s bedroom.

Gracie immediately stomped away, slamming the door behind her.

“She never curses like that, even with Daryl running his mouth as much as he does,” Aaron sighed, scrubbing his hand over his face, “And she definitely never gets violent.”

“I dunno, she kicks some serious ass in my children’s class,” Paul smirked slightly.

Aaron peeked through his fingers, giving him a now’s not the time look.

Paul pursed his lips, “Can I say something?”

“Of course you can,” Aaron rolled his eyes.

“Look,” Paul took a deep breath, “It’s not really my place, she’s your daughter, but...she was defending her friend, I think you should take that into account.”

“Paul,” Aaron sighed, putting his hand on his shoulder, “She’s your daughter to...no less than mine or Daryl’s. You obviously have a say in this kind of stuff.”

Paul smiled weakly at him, “I’m just saying...from experience...kids always have a reason for why they do what they do. They just need the right adult who will actually listen to them.”

Before Aaron could say anything, Daryl came into the trailer.

“She okay?” Daryl asked.

“She’s in her room,” Aaron said, glancing at Paul, “But...she’s not in trouble, so I’m going to go tell her she was only in timeout for the language...and that shoving is bad...unless you have a reason.”

Daryl nodded, watching him walk away. He raised an eyebrow at Paul.

“What?” Paul laughed.

“What are we gonna do with both you and me lettin’ that kid get away with everything, huh?” Daryl snorted, taking off his jacket, flopping on the couch.

“Rick gone?” Paul asked.

“Yeah,” Daryl said simply, “Hershel’s completely fine too, Gracie overreacted. They were playin’ tag and Judith tagged ‘im too hard, he fell down.”

Paul snorted, sitting beside him, “You okay?”

Daryl just shook his head, “Later?”

“Yeah,” Paul nodded, holding his hand, “Later.”

“Dad’s back!” Gracie yelled as she walked out with Aaron, throwing herself into Daryl’s arms, “Have a good trip?”

“Yeah, I did,” Daryl said, “We’re gonna have to take you swimmin’ in that lake the Frontier’s gettin’ sometimes. There was tons ‘a ducks.”

“Really?” Gracie asked with wide eyes, “Can we get a pet duck?”

“Hell no, Dog would eat it,” Daryl snorted.

Aaron sat down on the opposite couch, turning on their old little box TV and starting up one of the VHS tapes of Homeward Bound they had, the talking dog making Gracie gasp.

“This is Dog’s favorite movie, he needs to watch with us!” Gracie called, “Dog! DOG!” she yelled at the top of her lungs.

Dog immediately came running out from wherever it was he’d been hiding, jumping up on Paul’s lap, causing him to grunt in pain.

“You are way too big to be a lap down,” Paul huffed, squirming out from under the dog and moving to sit beside Aaron, curling up to his boyfriend’s side immediately.

Daryl put his feet up on the coffee table, Gracie laying on him slightly, her hand on Dog as she watched the movie.

Paul smiled at how domestic the whole thing was, curling closer to Aaron and putting his head on his shoulder.